A fraction of the whole - Steve Toltz

[Merilyn]

At 700 pages long this book requires some commitment but don’t let that put you off as it’s well worth the effort. Martin Dean is an armchair philosopher with some eccentric views on society and human nature. After his partner dies he is left to care for his son Jasper and does so with all the best intentions if in a somewhat unconventional manner. The story, or stories I should say as there is a lot going on in this book, revolves around these two brilliantly constructed characters as they struggle to understand and create meaning in their lives. Toltz cleverly manages to blend the completely absurd with the deeply philosophical and whilst the book is satirical on the surface has some really tender and deep moments as well. This is a classic first novel unlike anything I’ve ever read.

[Jane B]

I enjoyed this book very much. It certainly was a big read and Martin Dean's philosophies on life (some of which I agree with) and his schemes to make the world a better place - I especially liked his idea of making everyone in Australia a millionaire - were very entertaining. Toltz's book was shortlisted for the 2008 Man Booker Prize and is nominated for the 2009 NSW Premier's Literary Awards which is quite an achievement for a first novel and deservedly so - he has written an outstandlingly entertaining book.

[Read, Review & Win]

Brilliant, witty, unputdownable!!!