Book Review -The Children Act, Ian McEwan

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The Children Act, Jonathan Cape, 2014

Fiona is a high court judge, dealing with matters of family law.  She is businesslike, brisk, yet compassionate.  Beyond the professional successes, Fiona is childless and her marriage is in crisis.

Fiona is summoned in a pressing case, Adam a beautiful seventeen year old boy with leukemia is refusing medical treatment which could save his life, under grounds of religion – he is a Jehovah’s Witness.  In order to gain a better understanding of the case, Fiona goes to visit Adam in hospital, and their encounter touches both their lives in ways they could never have imagined.

The main crux of the novel follows their encounter and how Fiona’s decision impacts on both of their lives.  Beautifully written and succinct, with not a word wasted, the reader can see why Ian McEwan is such a well-respected and revered writer.  Thought provoking and powerful.

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