Review of
Instaread Summary of Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler
Five out of five stars
While it seems
unlikely that any modern author could improve on a play by Shakespeare, there
is no harm in trying and there is the potential for some interesting plot
twists when they try. It is stated in the summary that the book is a retelling
of “The Taming of the Shrew,” resetting it in the context of the complexities
of modern families with the changes in gender roles. After reading this
summary, if I had not been told that it is a retelling of the Shakespearean
play, I doubt if I would have figured it out.
The summary is
concise and understandable and there is mention of male and female stereotypes
being undermined by the behavior of the characters. The basic premise is that
Kate is the daughter of a renowned scientist and Pyotr, his longtime lab
assistant is about to be deported. Kate’s father comes up with the idea of Kate
and Pyotr engaging in a sham marriage so that Pyotr can stay in the country.
Kate agrees, partly out of loyalty to her father, but also because her life is
generally a consistent bore. Yet, despite the problems in the way in which the
relationship began, there is a “happily ever after” conclusion.
Did this
summary convince me that this is a worthy retelling of one of the classic
Shakespearean plays? No, not even close. However, I was intrigued enough to
have some interest in reading the book. The plot and characters appear to be quirky
enough to make the book interesting.
This book was made available for free for review
purposes.
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