Somehow, without any of that, the author just slowly, softly built up the main character’s everyday emotions until I ached for his heartaches and celebrated his happinesses. The language wasn’t flowery or sentimental. They weren’t big or demonstrative or flashy. The main character describes what he does in a very believable way and spends a lot of time thinking about science in relation to his life.Įven more important than the details of the character was the way the author brought his emotions to life. The author had clearly done his research about biochemists. I realize this might not appeal to every reader, but as a scientist myself, I enjoyed that a lot. He’s also really funny and (bonus!) he’s a biochemist.

He’s sweet and smart, but shy and socially awkward. The main character was particularly lovable. I haven’t fallen this in love with a work of fiction in a long time. Narrated from Douglas's endearingly honest, slyly witty, and at times achingly optimistic point of view, Us is the story of a man trying to rescue his relationship with the woman he loves, and learning how to get closer to a son who's always felt like a stranger. And maybe going ahead is for the best anyway? Douglas is privately convinced that this landmark trip will rekindle the romance in the marriage, and might even help him to bond with Albie. Connie has planned a month-long tour of European capitals, a chance to experience the world's greatest works of art as a family, and she can't bring herself to cancel. Then Connie tells him she thinks she wants a divorce. Now, almost three decades later, they live more or less happily in the London suburbs with their moody seventeen year-old son, Albie. Douglas Petersen may be mild-mannered, but behind his reserve lies a sense of humor that seduces beautiful Connie into a second date.and eventually into marriage.

Us book david nicholls