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Skallagrigg

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'Skallagrigg' by William Horwood follows the intertwined stories of Arthur, a sufferer from the early part of the twentieth century, Esther, a sufferer from the latter part of the same century, and a narrator who becomes obsessed with a computer game called Skallagrigg. The plot explores the connection between these characters, centered around the legends of the Skallagrigg and the quest to find its meaning and significance. Through rich storytelling, the book delves into the challenges faced by disabled individuals, the evolution of understanding and treatment towards them over the years, and the emotional journeys of the characters as they navigate through life's complexities.

The writing style of 'Skallagrigg' is described as haunting, powerful, and emotionally impactful. Readers are drawn into the lives of the characters, experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions and gaining insights into the struggles and triumphs of those with disabilities. weaves together elements of mystery, historical information, and profound relationships, offering a multi-layered saga that touches on themes of empathy, perseverance, and the enduring human spirit.

Characters:

The characters are complex and vividly portrayed, showcasing diverse experiences of disability and personal growth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is deeply emotional and descriptive, effectively immersing readers in the experiences of disabled characters and addressing profound themes of societal treatment.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around the lives of Arthur and Esther, exploring themes of mistreatment, societal perceptions of disabilities, and a quest linked to the mysterious 'Skallagrigg'.

Setting:

The setting spans 20th century UK, highlighting institutional environments and evolving perceptions of disabilities.

Pacing:

Pacing varies, with some slow sections that demand readers' emotional engagement, leading to a rewarding outcome.

Notes:

Skallagrigg is set in two different time periods: 1927 and 1982.
The story explores the lives of individuals with cerebral palsy.
Arthur, a character from 1927, faces mistreatment and abuse in an institution.
Esther, from 1982, has a different but still challenging life with CP.
The book emphasizes the fight for disability rights during the 1980s.
The story weaves together themes of hope, relationships, and societal attitudes.
The narrator is a systems analyst and computer programmer, linking modern technology to the story.
The author, William Horwood, has personal experience with disability through his daughter, Rachel.
Readers describe the book as both heartbreaking and life-inspiring.
It discusses the historical treatment of disabled people in Britain.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of institutional abuse, neglect, and societal injustices faced by disabled persons.

From The Publisher:

Skallagrigg is a 1987 novel written by William Horwood and influenced by Horwood's relationship with his own daughter Rachel, who has cerebral palsy. It is notable in that it foresaw the importance of adaptive computer technology in the lives of future generations of disabled people

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