The 'Last Days of Ptolemy Grey' is without a doubt one of the best books I have read in a very long time.I picked it up on a whim, and was captivated from the beginning, quickly getting caught up in the life and misty mind of Ptolemy. From the chaos, fear, and betrayal of the opening pages to the poignant ending, Mosely had my attention trough deft use of language, detail, and especially dialogue.
Ptolemy Grey is a man nearing the end of his life. His mind is a misty mixture of old stories from the past, current events from the ever-present television and radio, and a murky recognition of his surroundings. At the wake of his closest relative, he meets Robyn, a seventeen year old orphan, who sweeps into his life and cleans out the squalor while still leaving him dignity. They come to depend upon one another, taking care each other; eventually Ptolemy makes a decision that will both shorten and enrich his life, and allow him to care for her forever.
Though I'd often heard of Mosely, of course, this is the first novel of his that I've read. It won't be the last. His characterizations are achingly real and sharp, and the pace of the story is quick, allowing us a look into a proud man's last days, a glimpse at his past, and hope for the future... all without bogging down in detail at any point. No scene seems cavalierly added; this is obviously a carefully crafted, carefully plotted book. I also admire his dialogue. Ptolemy, his young friend, Robyn, and even greedy Neicie come to life through voices that sound authentic.
'The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey' is a quick read--277 pages--but not a light read. I found myself stopping to think about many scenes, and I can see that it will definitely be a book I read again.
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