Gene Wolfe is an author that is very difficult to fully understand. It is possible, and enjoyable, to simply read through his masterpiece, The Book of the New Sun, and read it simply as a story. But there are many questions left unanswered. Why are so many characters left unnamed? Why does Severian consistantly mishear or misunderstand what people say? What is that play all about? These questions are answered in Borski's collection of essays about The Book of the New Sun.

It may seem foolish to some to buy a book explaining another book, but it will truly enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Wolfe's magnum opus. Many of the things Borski explains will simply seem to click. "Oh, I get it now... it makes so much sense." But you would probably never figure it out on your own, or even realize there was something to figure out. Borski's work is a very useful and enjoyable way to more fully understand one of the greatest works of american fiction.

Borski does a great job of exploring the four (plus one) books of the New Sun series. I learned several things I had either not known or had failed to recognize--even after at least 5 re-reads over the last 20 years. And while I don't agree with some of his conclusions, it's hard to deny the enthusiasm he has for Wolfe. So if you're a fan, what's not to like about getting another fan's well-constructed insight into one of the greatest SF works ever written? Get it. Like the series, it will make you think.

Borski's book seems to be more of a personal response than I expected it to be but it is WELL WORTH the read if you have already read the books yourself. It gave me some new insights to think about.

I bought it hoping for some good, well-argued literary criticism. It's not that. In fact, it's little more than an expanded glossary with some very unfortunate lacunae (for example, the Hierogrammates are given little more than a mention)! The author seems caught up in the arcana arguing by implication that Wolfe is seeking not much more than the consternation of his readers through twistings and turnings of identities. Perhaps that is one of the tools he uses in his writings (there does seem to be a consensus on that point though I remain unconvinced), but it isn't really all that interesting as an end. Of far greater value -- and as little as I understand him, I know this to be true of Wolfe's intent --is what the author is intending to TEACH. Not a word about that.

If you like tortured reasoning and twisting character identification, you might like this book. I, however, regret the time I spent with it.