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A Sense of Occasion by Brodie Crellin review
A dysfunctional family comes together for a funeral in this heartfelt, keenly observed novel
TL;DR
- The novel depicts a family that defies conventional definitions, beginning its story in the "ashes" of dysfunction.
- Key characters include the anxious Patch, her mutable father Robin, and the domineering playwright Jude, all connected by the deceased Mary.
- Crellin skillfully navigates fragmented recollections and points of view, maintaining a natural flow despite frequent flashbacks.
- The book is praised for its realistic and non-sentimental portrayal of sex as a vehicle for character foibles and desires.
- Despite leaning on Jude and her mother for class critiques, the novel is largely a fun exploration of characters clashing, anchored by the grief-stricken and observant Patch.