This book had some definite flaws (already well-described by previous entries). However, I’m glad I read it, because despite the flaws, I really enjoy Zadie Smith’s style of writing. I’m reading White Teeth now because of it.

The dialogue in this book drove me crazy. The author attempted to reflect various nuances of American speech, but failed in my opinion, perhaps because she is British. A character says “How am I meant to feel?” when she should say “How I am I supposed to feel?” The hiphop-ish guy sounds particularly off.

There were some great moments throughout the novel. I loved it when the college student daughter gets dressed, then realizes as she walks to campus that she hasn’t achieved the look she wanted: “This was not what she had meant at all.” The big fight between the husband and wife was extremely moving and well-written. And there are terrific observations, like when Smith talks about the disappointment one feels when the thing one professes to dislike does not come to pass.

The characters didn’t feel completely rounded to me, and seemed a little biologically deterministic, even. Kiki is a big lady with large breasts: she’s down-to-earth and maternal. Victoria is a beautiful young coed: she’s a slut. etc.

The novel is sort of draped on the plot of Howard’s End, but I didn’t feel that On Beauty had a cohesive theme or a satisfying conclusion.

I was very surprised by On Beauty’s critical acclaim. I do think Smith seems like a very smart woman. I bet she would write fabulous essays.

This book took me quite some time to get into, but once I did I was very glad I’d stuck it out (thank you book club). The family interactions are what keeps the storyline interesting but I often found myself completely infuriated by the actions of the main characters. I’d give it a 5 out of 10.