The Shepherd's Hut

The Shepherd's Hut by Tim Winton
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Started this book with very positive attitude.
Beginning was OK, very convincing language and internal dialogue of a young boy (Jaxie) without any education, family ties or social skills. And so I progressed some 50 pages when a question came: is there any story?
So far there was none.
I accepted it and continued, concentrating on author's skill in a very credible presenting the way of reasoning of the main character. Characteristic features were: absolute ego-centrism, lots of self-pity, considering murder as the best solution in all doubtful situations.
And avoiding any facts.
Then another character arrives. First reaction, obvious - kill. Somehow it is avoided, but temptation returns at any suspicion of unloyalty.
The other character brings additional theme - sins of Catholic Church. (view spoiler)[ It does not look like Jaxie ever had contact with Catholic, or any other, church, but his immediate reaction is: kill. He does not kill, but considers that it justifies treating the other person with contempt and suspicion. As could be expected we never learn what were the reasons for other person's life in exile. (hide spoiler)]
Then, out of sudden, there is some action. Unexpected finding. (view spoiler)[ Hard to believe that two man whose main concern was to be met by strangers, lived for weeks in the close vicinity of a facility buzzing with life . (hide spoiler)]
Finally, what a relief, happy end - 3 people killed and the main character, free of any fears, speeds towards happy life forever.
Unbelievable.
While reading I did not feel any connection to this book, still, after completion, a strong distaste remained.



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