Outstanding Work
The title of this book, "Fata Morgana," sets the stage for this piece which is a mirage of colorful threads intricately woven together to form a shimmering work of material that is delightful and entertaining. I have read this work several times and find myself enchanted and pleasantly stunned by enchantment that is laid in front of the reader. Kotzwinkle's outstanding imagination, which I consider his hallmark trait, includes imagery that conjures up magic on every street corner. Although this is usually classified as a mystery novel, I would describe it as a fine example of mental artwork. I would recommend it to people who enjoy having their imagination teased and pleased. This book is on my list of top 15 modern books along with Kotzwinkle's "Herr Nightingale and the Satin Woman," Lynn Ward's "Madman's Drum," Ishiguro's "Remains of the Day," Jane Smiley's "A Thousand Acres," "Milagro Beanfield War," "A Yellow Raft in Blue Water," "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," "Dune," "Ender's Game," and the Kawabata works. Although all of these books are different in nature they possess the common trait of being outstanding pieces of writing that impart new and unusual perspectives on the world.
This is not a piece for someone anticipating a typical, plodding, murder mystery
or a whodunit. This is a fantastic journey that transports the reader into a different world
filled with imaginary crystals, light, gems, and opulant beauty. Highly recommended.