I requested this novel because I adored The Imperfectionists. In particular, Rachman’s ability to build characters is amazing. He does the same here ... but, —and it’s a big but— the characters (at least for the first half of the book) were completely unlikeable. If it hadn’t been an author I enjoyed so much in the past I would have bailed before getting to all of the goodness of the last third of the book. By that point, the plot began to unfold in a very satisfying way. Also, characters were redeemed and introduced allowing me to care about the resolution. The ending alone was worth the build up. Overall, a pick.

Is it possible to really enjoy a book even though the main character is pretty much all-around unattractive? In looks, demeanor, attitude, thought? I think it must be, because I really enjoyed The Italian Teacher by Tom Rachman even though Pinch, our “hero,” is pretty pathetic. As the son Bear Bavinsky, a famous and philandering painter, Pinch lives his life struggling to earn his father’s approval. He questions every move, every decision, every conversation – hoping that it is the “right” one. He finds himself teaching Italian at a small, unremarkable college in London having cast aside long ago his desire to paint. When he finds himself suddenly in Bear’s confidence and good graces, he makes some interesting and life-changing decisions that propel the second half of the story. I was completely interested the whole way through but found Pinch pretty pathetic. 4 stars.

https://litpicks.wordpress.com/2018/01/26/sad-characters/

Not only is this a book about relationships, but it also prompts the reader to reflect on the purpose of life and the direction one chooses to follow. The bigger-than-life figure of the artist Bear Bavinsky overpowers everyone--his wives, lovers, and children. He is controlling both of everyone around him and his artistic legacy. As we follow the life of Charlie (Pinch), Bear's favorite child who becomes the Italian teacher , we see how he kowtows to his father and how insecure he is throughout his life. But when Charlie finally admits to himself that all his life he has been trying to please his father, he makes a monumental decision.

An interesting and introspective read.