Have you read any books that have had a similar theme or style? If so, how did they compare to this one?
Joan Silber’s short story novel “Mercy” comes to mind. In Mercy, I found the story links to be far more connected and less tenuous that those in “Merry-Go-Round”. Overall, “Mercy” is far better written with compelling and well fleshed out characters.
I read Liar’s Poker by Michael Lewis not that long ago, and there were parts of this book, particularly Simon’s story, that reminded me of that one.
I just read 1873 - it’s more of an historical account of the global economy but it does show how even then the world was affected by what was happening in other countries, I just realized I read this question wrong. I was thinking the overall topic of the book not necessarily the book’s structure. But I did read a book coming out next month, Beginning, Middle, End in which that author structures her story in what I would call vignettes similar to this book.
I’ve not read much in the field of economics, but have read some books of linked short stories that show a similar structure. The work of ElLizabeth Strout comes to mind. In those the links between the characters are stronger and the geography more limited, so this was a new look at that style of “novel” for me.
Thanks John I will put this one on my list!
Ishmael by Daniel Quinn. I read it a few years back and there are a series of books. I found that while it was an easy read, as this book is, I learned so much. If I remember correctly it also tied things together in the final book.
Years ago friends and I did an in-depth study on the 1890s with particular attention to the wealthy barons. Biographies about Vanderbilt especially highlighted the economic global connections. There wasn’t one specific book but rather a group of readings that had a similar theme although not style of Merry-Go-Round.
I haven’t read anything similar to this as I thought it would be boring or too hard to follow. Who knew I would be reading and learning? I like the way the author uses each character as a chapter.
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I agree! I never would have picked this one up on my own, but I really found I loved it. I should step out of my comfort zone more often!
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