Jonathan St. James is a curious character who isn’t necessarily someone you would want to be friends with but makes for an interesting read nonetheless. A 37-year-old man with mannerisms that are comparable to those of rodents, Jonathan finds himself cast out of his mother’s house and left to fend for himself in the big city. As the reader soon discovers, it’s a tough world out there for a man who doesn’t speak at all.
Suzanne Sutherland has created an endearing story around a character who has led an overly sheltered life. With humour and a knack for giving just the right details, this story plays itself out well from beginning to end. While the novelette is told in third person, a voice for Jonathan still forms, and though he may not have a very strong one, it is still distinct and gives the story its curious charm. (Liz Worth)
Litzine, Suzanne Sutherland/Say Uncle Press, novelette, 28 pgs, $2, mailbox 101, 89 Charles St. W., Toronto, ON, M5S 1K7, [email protected]