Book Review: "Trust" by Hernan Diaz

Introduction

• Presenter: Kelly from "Books I'm Not Reading"
• Book Discussed: "Trust" by Hernan Diaz
• Awards: Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, shared with "Demon Copperhead" by Barbara Kingsolver
• Unique Aspect: First time two winners in one year for fiction category

Book Background

• Popularity: Featured on the Booker long list; lots of attention and reviews
• Interview: Hernan Diaz on Seth Meyers' show; talks about fountain pens
• Genre & Time Setting: Takes place in the 1920s and 30s, focusing on the themes of money

Structure of "Trust"

• Unique Structure: Divided into four parts, each with different narratives
  • Bonds: A novel within the novel
    • Focuses on Benjamin and Helen Rask
    • Themes of wealth accumulation and relationships
  • My Life: Autobiography by Andrew Bevel
    • Reveals Andrew as Benjamin Rask; presented as incomplete
  • Memoir by Ida: Explores another perspective
  • Futures by Mildred Bevel: Journal entries

Themes and Analysis

• Narrative Style: Multiple writing styles (novel, autobiography, memoir, journal entries)
• Title Significance: Reflects themes of trust and unreliable narrators
• Social Commentary: Focuses on the marginalization of women in finance
• Historical Context: Set against the backdrop of the pre-Great Depression era

Personal Review

• Rating: 4 stars; potential to be 5 stars
• Criticism: Lack of distinction between female voices in the third and fourth sections
• Strengths: Brilliant structure; explores finance and marriages deeply
• Political Insight: Commentary on the role of women in finance and the complexity of financial language

Spoiler Discussion

• Historical Insight: Characters unaware of impending Great Depression
• Financial Theme: The Bevels' foresight of the stock market crash
• Gender Roles: Critique on the absence of women in finance historically

Broader Implications

• Modern Relevance: Reflection on current economic and political climate
  • Links to issues like Occupy Wall Street and political influence
• Personal Context: Connection to oil, gas, and natural resources in the local economy

Conclusion

• Final Thoughts: Encourages further discussion and reading of the book
• Call to Action: Invites audience to share thoughts, preferably spoiler-free
• Sign-off: Reminder to be kind to oneself and others