The Sweetness At The Bottom Of The Pie Book Review
Introduction
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie is a mystery novel written by Alan Bradley. The book was published in 2009 and was the author's debut novel. The book is set in England during the 1950s and follows the story of an eleven-year-old girl named Flavia de Luce who solves a murder mystery. The book has received critical acclaim and has won several awards, including the Crime Writers' Association Debut Dagger award and the Agatha Award for Best First Novel.
Plot
Flavia de Luce is an eleven-year-old girl who lives in a large estate called Buckshaw in England. She is fascinated by chemistry and spends most of her time in her laboratory. One day, she discovers a dead man in the cucumber patch of her garden. The man is identified as a local stranger and Flavia decides to solve the mystery of his death.
Flavia's investigation takes her to various places, including the local church, the library, and the police station. She also encounters several suspects, including her own father. Flavia's intelligence and wit help her to uncover the truth behind the murder mystery.
Characters
The book's main character is Flavia de Luce, an eleven-year-old girl who is intelligent and curious. She is passionate about chemistry and has a talent for solving mysteries. Other important characters in the book include Flavia's father, Colonel de Luce, her two sisters, Ophelia and Daphne, and the family's housekeeper, Mrs. Mullet.
Themes
The book explores several themes, including the power of knowledge, the importance of family, and the nature of revenge. Flavia's passion for chemistry and her curiosity about the world around her highlight the importance of knowledge and learning. The relationship between Flavia and her family members, particularly her father, shows the importance of family bonds. The book also explores the concept of revenge and how it can consume a person's life.
Writing Style
The book is written in a unique and engaging style. The author, Alan Bradley, uses vivid descriptions and witty dialogue to bring the characters and setting to life. The book's protagonist, Flavia de Luce, is a charming and memorable character who is both intelligent and witty. The book also has a touch of humor, making it an enjoyable read.
Conclusion
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie is a well-written and engaging mystery novel. The book's protagonist, Flavia de Luce, is a memorable and charming character who will leave a lasting impression on readers. The book's themes of knowledge, family, and revenge make it a thought-provoking read. Overall, if you are looking for an entertaining and engaging mystery novel, The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie is definitely worth a read.