bals@nutmeg.DEC (Once, accident. Twice, coincidence. Three times is enemy action.) (01/22/86)
>>> I dont know if it's good, but I did hear it's very dirty. >>The word I get is that MAIA is extremely sexist and racist, to >>the point I've not even considered getting it ( I've heard this from >>friends whom I trust implicitly in these matters; normally they bend >>over backwards to be fair, so I tend to believe them when they bad-rap >>a book ). Any independent confirmation of this stance from some netter >>would be useful. Gee, why don't we all get together and just burn the book. I'd call unsupported, second-hand opinions on this -- or any -- book unfair, to put it lightly. I have read MAIA (in hardcover), and sorry, I can't confirm your friends' stance (don't know whether I bend over backwards on sexism/racism, try to keep an open mind). I found the book delightful, truthful, poignant, interesting and a good read. It's set in the same world as "Shardik." Generally deals with the same theme -- how legends are born. Chances are if you enjoyed "Shardik" you'll enjoy "Maia." If you thought the epitome of Adams' writing began and ended with "Watership Down," you probably won't. Very dirty? Well, the main character is a prostitute/concubine, and the plot deals with her lifestyle in great detail. I'd hardly call it graphic, though. Chacun a son gout. Sexist/racist? If you're one of those unique people who feels that "Huckleberry Finn" is racist, or that "The Merchant of Venice" is anti-semitic, then you should probably avoid "Maia." In the world Maia and her black friend are living in, their thoughts/actions are totally believable and appropriate. Perhaps they could be considered sterotypes in 20th century America, but of course, the book *isn't* set in 20th century America. I strongly recommend "Maia." Fred Bals (DEC, Merrimack)