The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas

Is a work of contemporary literary fiction and domestic drama that is, at times, a confronting and abrasive read, often veering into what feels like formulaic and occasionally crude prose.

Despite this, the novel demonstrates a notable strength in its characterisation. Each perspective is sharply drawn, and the group agreed that the depth and development of the characters are among the book’s most successful elements, even if few of them are particularly likeable.

The novel’s central incident and its reverberations through the lives of various characters are handled with nuance, allowing readers to see how a single moment fractures relationships and exposes underlying tensions. This multiplicity of viewpoints stands out as one of the book’s greatest achievements.

However, the narrative ultimately feels unresolved. While the journey through each character’s experience is engaging, the novel stops short of delivering a satisfying or cohesive conclusion.

As a book club selection, The Slap may not have been the strongest choice given its divisiveness and lack of resolution. Nevertheless, it remains an absorbing and thought provoking read, perhaps better suited to solitary reading or as a compelling travel companion.

Our rating 3 of 4