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The Curious Incident of the Dog In the Night-time

Mark Haddon author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Penguin Random House Children's UK

Published:13th Feb '14

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The Curious Incident of the Dog In the Night-time cover

A 15-year-old boy with Asperger's Syndrome discovers a dead dog in his neighborhood and embarks on a detective journey, unraveling deeper family mysteries along the way in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time follows the journey of 15-year-old Christopher Boone, who lives in Swindon with his father. Christopher, who has Asperger's Syndrome, has a unique perspective on the world, characterized by his love for mathematics, science, and the works of Sherlock Holmes. His struggles with social interactions often leave him feeling isolated, but his keen observational skills set the stage for an intriguing mystery.

The story begins when Christopher discovers a dead dog in a neighbor's yard, prompting him to take on the role of detective. He becomes determined to uncover the circumstances surrounding the dog's death and to write a thriller based on his investigation. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers not only the truth about the dog but also secrets that affect his own family. This journey of discovery challenges Christopher's understanding of those around him and forces him to confront the complexities of human relationships.

Mark Haddon's novel is notable for its authentic portrayal of an autistic protagonist, offering readers insight into Christopher's thought processes and emotional experiences. The narrative blends elements of a traditional detective story with a poignant exploration of family dynamics and personal growth. Ultimately, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a compelling tale of curiosity, resilience, and the quest for truth, all seen through the eyes of a remarkable young man.

Haddon is to be congratulated for imagining a new kind of hero, for the humbling instruction this warm and often funny novel offers and for showing that the best lives are lived where difference is cherished -- Carol Ann Duffy * Daily Telegraph *
The clash between Christopher's view of the world and the way it looks to the rest of us makes this an extraordinarily moving, often blackly funny read. It is hard to think of anyone who would not be moved and delighted by this book, so the decision to publish it simultaneously for older children and adults is certainly well-founded -- Jill Slotover * Financial Times *
Brilliantly inventive, full of dazzling set-pieces, unbearably sad, yet also skilfully dodging any encounters with sentimentality, this isn't simply the most original novel I've read in years . . . It's also one of the best * The Times *
A stroke of genius, as the advantages of having a naive, literal-minded boy in the driving seat are manifold . . . We do learn what it might feel like to have Asperger's Syndrome -- David Newnham * TES *
The book gave me that rare, greedy feeling of: this is so good I want to read it all at once but I mustn't or it will be over too soon -- Kate Kellaway * Observer *
It's pretty much flawless . . . Haddon stays compassionate to all his characters, but not once does his story descend into treacly pathos or easy tears. This is a high ambition fully achieved -- Catherine Shoard * Evening Standard *
Supremely well-written, funny and oddly affecting * Daily Telegraph *
Exceptional by any standards . . . When we look at the world through Christopher's eyes we see it more clearly and understand ourselves better. What more could you want of a book? * The Sunday Telegraph *
Exceptional by any standards. Haddon sticks rigidly to the limits imposed by autism without sacrificing literary viability. When we look at the world through Christopher's eyes we see it more clearly and understand ourselves better. What more could you want of a book? -- Dinah Hall * Sunday Telegraph *
Mark Haddon has produced a well-executed, unusual mystery. * GQ *

ISBN: 9781782953463

Dimensions: 197mm x 129mm x 18mm

Weight: 204g

288 pages