New Town: A Fable...Unless You Believe

I picked this book up to read over the weekend. I didn't expect much out of it, since I'd never heard of the author and the premise seemed kind of weak. But I was surprised by the depth of this story. The first thing that shocked me is that Harry Blamires was a protege of C.S. Lewis. The second is that this allegory has serious chops. I plan to read this book again and again, so deep is the parable. The story centers around Bernard, who dreams that he has died and is deposited in Old Hertham, which is falling apart. He is told that certain developers are building NewTown, which lies across a deep ravine. But to obtain residence in NewTown, one must get on The Waiting List. Bernard spends a considerable amount of time trying to get on the List. He also comes into contact with an old flame, and her grown daughter. The relationship between the three of them is complicated and interesting. The only problem I have with the plot is its sudden ending. Blamires' prose is incredible. Lewis' influence is evident, but Blamires has a voice of his own. I'm kind of upset I've never heard of him before, but I plan to find more books he has authored. I would recommend anyone read this book

I thoroughly enjoyed this work of Blamires. He has a sense of wit and insight into the human nature that made it very readable and also very familiar. As you read of the different characters in the book, you will often find yourself thinking, "Why, I know someone very much like this character!" After reading this, I have begun to purchase other works by Blamires and have not been disappointed. My only wish is that the book was longer, as I so enjoyed his writing style. The book is a fine allegory and can be enjoyed by those of faith and not, which explains the aptly chosen title of the book.