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ksoles
Jun 27, 2014ksoles rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
Ostensibly, "The Geography of Pluto" tells Will Ambrose's story, both in the present and in memories. Taking readers through Will's coming of age and his coming out, it reads much like a long get-to-know-you brunch conversation: casual, intense and sometimes rambling. Christopher DiRaddo focuses on Will's relationships to depict an ultimately likeable narrator, the most important one being with his (single) mother. Will's fickle but loyal best friend Angie and his ex-boyfriend Max certainly cause him anguish but, though each of these kinships has its struggle and its climax, they teach Will that only the most important relationships endure. Though "The Geography of Pluto" explores profound themes such as the clash between romantic love and familial love, the courage of straying from expectations and the fragility of the human body, the book's setting emerges as its most important thread. Anyone who has visited or lived in Montreal will appreciate the presence of the vibrant city's personality; the markets, the mountain, Dawson College, the gay village and even the quirks of engaging in "frenglish" conversations feature just as prominently as the human characters. In trying to amass so many ideas and emotions, DiRaddo sometimes pens clumsy dialogue and mechanical scenes. He also tends to make too-grand declarations about life and death and sweeping proclamations about "what it's like for gay men." When Will questions his own actions, his uncertainty seems forced and unnecessary; readers can detect Will's emotions without having them spelled out. However, throughout the book, you'll root for Will. You'll sympathize with his heartbreak, feel irritated by his relationship gaffes and respect his closeness to his mother. And, of course, you'll want to explore his dear Montreal, the city for which his love never wanes.