Dancing with the Hurricane

by Leon Silver

In the tradition of "The Reader", comes a powerful coming-of-age novel, set in post-World War II Europe, Israel and Australia.

376 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Leon Silver is a full-time writer and author of two novels, Dancing with the Hurricane (HarperCollins 2004) and Sweeties (Lacuna 2016). He was born in Shanghai, grew up in Israel, and came to Melbourne in the mid 1950s, where he still lives with his wife Lauretta. With a strong education in textile technology and design, Leon worked in the fashion industry for many years, but he has been writing all his life.

Reviews

[RhiSheree · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although I enjoyed the writing style of the novel, I just couldn’t retain any interest in the story. I couldnt care less about any of the characters and cant shake the feeling that its a poorly covered up autobiography (Leon Silver/Leon Gold?) which makes it less likeable in my opinion. I’ve got 100 pages to go but life is too short. I give up! 2 stars for the unique way it’s written only.

[Christel Keijzer · Rating 1 out of 5]

The whole narrative takes on the form of a conversation with a comatose, palliative uncle in hospital about their Jewish family's diasporic existences from Europe, to China, to Israel and Australia... with the author finally coming to terms with life's demons.

[Zeinab · Rating 1 out of 5]

I lost interest half way through. It wasn't exciting or interesting to read. Might be interesting for other people, but not for me.

[Patrick Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Funny, eccentric characters, and insightful observations of post war Israel and immigrants in Australia. Loved it.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once I adjusted to the style, I found it quite moving.

[Mireille]

Could not get passed first 50 pages. Not for me.