Middlesex: A Novel
by Jeffrey Eugenides
http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/8567956/ A copy just passed through my hands at the convention, so I thought I'd post my thoughts here.
The way I like to describe the book to people who ask me if they should read it is that you really have to want to read it. Instead of jumping into the interesting main character's life, it goes way back a few generations to find out why Cal turned out this way. The history can be kind of boring, though I read every word since I wanted to really understand the book. And every time I wondered why I bothered, something fascinating sprung up to keep me going.
I must admit that I was glad when Callie showed up properly in the narrative, and then I had no trouble finishing it. I really felt for Callie throughout. I cheered for her and felt sorry for him. My heart really went out to Cal. And the ending really made the whole thing spectacular.
I really liked it... it just wasn't what I was expecting. But I'm glad I read it.