Book Review- Life of Pi Yann Martel

Life of Pi, tells the story of a 16 year old boy who finds himself stranded on a lifeboat after the ship he is on, sinks to the bottom of the Pacific ocean. Orphaned and alone with only a hyena, an orang-utan and a tiger for company, Pi must fight for survival until he is rescued. Eventually his journey comes to an end 227 days later on the shores of Mexico. Captivated by his tale of survival, his rescuers ask him what happened, Pi tells them. However, they are dissatisfied with his version of events so Pi offers them an alternative (and somewhat slightly barbaric) story, he then asks them which story they prefer. They choose the first and highly unbelievable version rather than the second realistic, yet 'morally' wrong version.

This technique also allows the reader to ask themselves the same question. It forces the reader to choose and to take a look at their own morals, values and beliefs. This a constant throughout the text as there are numerous references to God, religion and faith. Pi, is constantly questioning his own beliefs and morals, and in the beginning wonders why he can't be Muslim, Christian and Hindu, "I just want to love God", he exclaims to his father.

Although this is a slow and often tedious read, it is important not to take this book at face value. It is more than just an adventure story, Martel is forever challenging the reader to question themselves, their reality and their beliefs.

It is important to note that the novel was awarded the MAN BOOKER prize in 2002 and was nominated for many other literary awards also.

To be honest I probably would have stopped reading after the first few chapters had my librarian not kindly told me to persevere with it. I'm glad I listened to her.

Book rating- ***