Last spring I discovered Australian author, Graeme Simsion's debut novel, The Rosie Project. It was absolutely delightful. I was thrilled to discover that Simsion had written a follow-up novel and even more excited to receive an advanced copy of it to review. Thank you to Simon and Schuster for allowing me the opportunity to read The Rosie Effect.
PLOT - The Rosie Effect continues the adventures of geneticist Don Tillman and his new wife, Rosie as they move to New York City. Don has been offered a job at Columbia University and Rosie is finishing up her thesis, when the couple receives surprising news. Rosie is pregnant. As Don struggles to handle Rosie's pregnancy and the idea of becoming a father, he finds himself in a string of messy situations. His good intentions mixed with issues related to his autism often bring about disastrous results. Another problem is that the Tillmans have an unwanted houseguest, Don's best friend, Gene, who moves in after a separation from his wife in Australia. Will the Tillman's be able to survive a pregnancy and a houseguest without their marriage falling apart?
LIKE - I love Don Tillman. He's awkward and usually says the wrong thing, but he tries so hard to make Rosie happy and he's a loyal friend. Don is a character with such a good heart, that it's easy to forgive his missteps. I like that Simsion writes completely outlandish scenarios for Don. They are utterly over-the-top and even though it's easy to see what is about to happen to Don, it's compelling, because Don puts his foot in his mouth and he has no idea. It's like watching a train-wreck in slow motion. It's the kind of book where I found myself engaged and yelling at Don, "Don't do it!!!". This story is a good mix of humorous and heartwarming. It's easy to root for all of the characters to resolve their problems, yet it's not so trite that everything has a simple solution.
DISLIKE - There is really nothing to dislike about this highly entertaining and touching novel. It's not overly deep or life changing, but it doesn't have to be that kind of book. This is a light, fun read. The perfect type of book to take on vacation.
RECOMMEND- YES! I'm very excited that film adaptation of The Rosie Project is in development and I really hope that SImsion continues with this series. I would definitely want to read the further tales of Don and Rosie. I've already recommended this series to many friends.