Evaluation:
Published: 08.05.2003.
Language: English
Level: Secondary school
Literature: n/a
References: Not used
  • Essays '"The Life and Crimes of Harry Lavender" by Marele Day', 1.
  • Essays '"The Life and Crimes of Harry Lavender" by Marele Day', 2.
Extract

"Witty, wryly humorous and fast-paced, "The Life and Crimes of Harry Lavender" is a thriller with a twist which brilliantly evokes the sleaze below the surface of the city's glittering façade". Is this what the novel is about?
Marele Day's novel, "The Life and Crimes of Harry Lavender" explores a large scope of issues related to crime and mystery writing. The use of simple language, symbolism, clever wit and a certain sense of satirical mockery all contribute to composing this witty, wryly humorous and fast paced novel. Through the way in which Day portrays the protagonist, Claudia Valentine, she challenges the stereotypes and ideas set in the readers' minds, in relation to gender issues. Day also succeeds to ruthlessly unmask the bare grit and grime of the cold hard truth, that is, organized crime in Sydney.

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