Only one thing is for certain when reading Nicola Barker’s latest and totally brilliant, yet unclassifiable novel – you have absolutely no idea which direction the story is heading in.
Barker’s writing is exuberant, chaotic and magical, but sometimes a little hard to follow. The Cauliflower is not for those who give up on books easily, but hold tight, you’re in for a pretty epic ride.
The novel concerns itself with Sri Ramakrishna, a 19th century Indian mystic, who certainly doesn’t like to be referred to as a ‘guru’.
The narrative jumps around, though is often told from the point of view of Ramakrishna’s nephew. The story unfolds in fragments as the reader gleans half-told tales of magical India.
Barker’s writing is completely original and insightful and bursting full of spirituality. The novel is thoroughly enjoyable; however the narrative becomes slightly messy at times as Barker runs away with herself.
