NICK: Book Review
Before Gatsby, there was Nick Carraway, a "person" with a life all his own. We know him for telling The Great Gatsby's story, but what's his and how did he end up partying with New York's most unknown man?
4.5/5 stars
100% would read again, and a MUST read for Gatsby fans
Okay, so we all know Nick Carraway as the quiet observer who narrates one of the greatest American novels, *The Great Gatsby*. But have you ever truly stopped to think about *him*? Before he moved to West Egg, before he met Jay Gatsby, who was Nick Carraway? Michael Farris Smith's novel, aptly titled 'NICK,' dives deep into this very question, and I honestly couldn't put it down. From a reader's perspective, I've always been fascinated by Nick's role as a narrator – his particular brand of detached observation mixed with a surprising amount of judgment. Smith's 'NICK' takes us on an emotional journey, exploring his experiences in the war and his restless search for meaning. It humanizes him in a way Gatsby only hinted at, showing us the raw, formative moments that sculpted the man who would eventually witness the summer of 1922. You really get a sense of his moral compass being shaped, his sensitivity, and the world-weariness that makes him such a compelling, yet often overlooked, character. What truly impressed me about this novel is how Michael Farris Smith managed to capture the essence of a character so deeply ingrained in literary history, then expand upon it without feeling forced. It’s not just a fan-fiction attempt; it’s a beautifully written, atmospheric piece of literature that stands on its own. The way Smith writes, you can almost feel the grit and the despair of Nick's pre-Gatsby life, painting a vivid picture that complements Fitzgerald's classic rather than diminishes it. It really makes you think about how Nick's 'writing' style in Gatsby – his careful choice of words and observations – was shaped by these earlier, tumultuous experiences. If you're a Gatsby enthusiast, picking up 'NICK' by Michael Farris Smith is a no-brainer. It's a novel that offers new layers to a familiar story, giving us a richer understanding of the man behind the famous green light. I loved taking my copy outdoors, just like in the picture, getting lost in Nick's world, sometimes even jotting down thoughts in my journal with little red tabs marking my favorite passages. It's a truly immersive experience that adds so much to the legacy of Nick Carraway, making his personality and journey even more profound.