I just finished reading The Shape of Snakes and the final page had me a bit confused. Given what had passed, this could be seen as a reason for the narrator’s obsession. However, she does seem a little unbalanced, and the letter pointedly displays the narrator as someone who would have access to the house around the time that Annie Butts was murdered. Could she be the murderer, with guilt as the motivator for her obsession? What do you think?
Walters has pulled this kind of ending off before - take The Sculptress as an example.
Also, could anyone define the difference between a good book and an enjoyable book for them? I’m curious as to what you guys think, because for me, one is not necessarily the other!
I’ve just finished re-reading this book, and it disturbed me just as much the second time. It’s a wonderful book, but I have to say I don’t think there is one truly sympathetic character in it - apart from Annie herself, of course.
Actually I think she does feel guilty, but more for abandoning Annie, rather than for murdering her. I must admit it never once crossed my mind that she may have been the killer. I think the letter that finishes the book gives a perfect rationale for the 20 year obsession. How could anyone not feel guilty after what happened, once they had received that plea from Annie? (And what’s the deal with her name anyway - did you work out why we only ever get M?)
I’m really pleased that someone has brought this book up - it’s one of the most impressive I’ve read in a long time, although, as you hint, I’m not sure it was really enjoyable. It has all sorts of personal resonances for me, as well.
I’ve read most of Walters’ books, and they’re generally pretty good. She really manipulates the reader’s emotions!
I agree with you on the book’s quality. But it really was an uncomfortable read. And as for her name - well, its a bit wierd isn’t it!
Have you read Acid Row? Just as well written, but a lot more enjoyable!
I love Minette Walters books. I snap them up as soon as they’re released.
I was not as fond of this book as I was of earlier works, but I will admit that it was a good book. I think the first time I read it I didn’t notice that we were never told M’s name, but I didn’t realise that until the second time I read it.
I think the letter at the end explained a lot. I realised that it was the driving force behind M’s search for Annie’s killer, because it gave her a sense of guilt as well as an insight into a character that appeared to others as less than human at times. I felt a lot of empathy towards M, because she wouldn’t accept the situation lying down. She was a strong character.
All in all, I think The Scold’s Bridle or The Echo were better books, but The Shape of Snakes was more disturbing. The only thing I really didn’t like was the inclusion of photographs - seemed a cheap and cheesy thing to do, very much like a child’s book.
I’ll be beating down the bookshop door to get her next book. She may confuse me, but she never really disappoints me. Minette Walters is at the top of my reading list.