Review – Kane by Dick Wybrow
Kane: A Humorous and Insightful Tale of a Man, a Wolf, and a Dog
Looking for a unique blend of humour, fantasy, and introspection, exploring the life of a character who is part man, part wolf, and part dog whilst on a road trip? Then Kane by Dick Wybrow was written just for you and for likeminded others. The novel is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with witty dialogue, poignant moments, and a deep dive into the complexities of identity and relationships.
The Heart of the Story
At its core, Kane is about the struggles and hilarities of being more than just human. Kane’s journey is marked by his transformation between forms, each bringing its own set of challenges and humorous predicaments. The book is peppered with laugh-out-loud moments, such as Kane’s observation,
It is very hard to get used to this pug body. And I constantly have the urge to lick my genitals. What foul creatures.
These characters give us these rich relationships
Kane’s relationship with Emelda is a central part of the story. Emelda’s background significantly impacts their dynamic, adding depth to their interactions. Her cautious approach to life, as seen in her reluctance to accept drinks from strangers, contrasts with Kane’s more straightforward, often blunt manner. This dynamic creates a rich tapestry of dialogue and interaction that is both amusing and food for thought.
Themes and Highlights
1. Identity and Belonging: The novel delves into Kane’s struggle with his identity, capturing the essence of being caught between worlds.
2. Humour in Adversity: Wybrow masterfully uses humour to lighten the narrative’s more serious themes, such as when Kane humorously misunderstands names or when Emelda dryly contemplates her fate in an Applebee’s. And can’t forget about the interaction with the cat. Really need a spoiler to discuss that event!
3. Wisdom and Insight: The book is not just about laughs; it offers nuggets of wisdom, like Emelda’s realisation that
There’s nothing wrong with needing someone else. Trusting another will lift you up when you stumble is brave. It makes you stronger, not weaker.
Emelda
4. Cultural References and Observations: The novel is rich with cultural references and keen observations about life, adding layers to the narrative.
My heart darkens further when he begins to whistle. I do not trust whistlers. A foul habit. Attention seeking. And you can never quite work out the melody. So maddening.
Kane
Kane by Dick Wybrow is a delightful read that successfully combines humour with a deep exploration of what it means to be human (or not quite human). It’s a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt out of place or in between worlds. The novel’s strength lies in its ability to make you laugh while simultaneously making you ponder the deeper aspects of life and relationships
My thanks to NetGalley and publishers for a copy of this book. Truly a boon as book 2 is already out and book 3 is on its way
4 Stars - Really Liked It
