Rites of Passage, William Golding (Booker, 1980)

Rite of Passage is the first of a trilogy of nautical novels and one that William Golding says is "funny" and shows he isn't a "dreary old monster". The book is set on a 19th century immigrant ship to Australia. Initially it reads as a social comedy, but soon turns much darker as new views of a ridiculed protagonist come to light. Much like Moon Tiger, different perspectives of personal history change the narrative. The novel explores the cruelty of the crowd especially when tensions over social status are involved.

Since starting this book club a few years ago we have formed a nice core membership. If you haven't come yet, please look out for the books on the table, pull up a chair, order a wine and join us. We like to hear what everyone has to say and enjoy the conversation, we're not cliquey at all! Oh, and to defray the Meetup monthly bill I will accept gold coin contributions or wine if you want to pay for multiple in one hit. I hope to see everyone again at this one with some new faces.