Title: One Rainy Day in May
Author: Mark Z. Danielewski
First published January 1, 2015
880 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780375714948 (ISBN10: 0375714944)
Rating: 3.66
Overview
The latest masterpiece from the renowned author of House of Leaves and Only Revolutions, One Rainy Day in May, is a stunning and captivating novel that takes you on a journey across the globe. The Familiar (Volume 1) introduces you to nine intriguing lives, all facing a terrifying decision that could change their lives forever.
From a therapist-in-training dealing with demanding patients and daughters, to a gang member in East L.A. contracted for violence, to two scientists on the run from a powerful organization, the characters will keep you on the edge of your seat. But at the core of it all is a twelve-year-old girl named Xanther, who sets out with her father to get a dog and instead ends up trying to save a fragile yet dangerous creature.
With full-color illustrations throughout, One Rainy Day in May will not only change the lives of its characters but also challenge the world we think we know, leaving a lasting impact on the future we take for granted.
About the Author
Mark Z. Danielewski is an acclaimed American author, famous for writing House of Leaves, Only Revolutions, The Fifty Year Sword, The Little Blue Kite, and The Familiar series.
Danielewski studied English Literature at Yale University before moving to Berkeley, California to attend a summer program in Latin at the University of California. He also spent time in Paris, where he focused on writing.
In the early 1990s, Danielewski pursued graduate studies at the USC School of Cinema-Television. Later, he worked as an assistant editor and sound editor on a documentary based on the life of the philosopher and literary critic Jacques Derrida.
Danielewski’s second novel, Only Revolutions, was a finalist for the 2006 National Book Award. It was originally released in the Netherlands in 2005 and then in the United States in 2012 with stitched illustrations, including a limited-edition release featuring a latched box that held the book.
From 2010-2012, Danielewski conducted staged readings of the book at the REDCAT Theater in Los Angeles.
In May 2015, he released the first volume of his announced 27-volume series, The Familiar. The second, third and fourth volumes were released in 2015, 2016 and 2017 respectively.
His latest release is currently available.
Danielewski is the son of Polish avant-garde film director Tad Danielewski, and the brother of singer and songwriter Annie Decatur Danielewski, aka Poe.
House of Leaves, Danielewski’s first novel, has gained a considerable cult following. In 2000, Danielewski toured with his sister across America at Borders Books and Music locations, promoting Poe’s album, which reflects elements of House of Leaves.
Danielewski’s work is known for experimental choices in form, such as intricate and multi-layered narratives, and typographical variation. In 2015, his piece on Matthew Barney’s River of Fundament appeared on display at the Guggenheim Museum in New York.
Official “Yarn + Ink” apparel inspired by his books is now available through his official website, Amazon and Etsy. His latest short story, “There’s a Place for You,” was released in August 2020.
Editoral Review
One Rainy Day in May by Mark Z. Danielewski is a suspenseful novel, published on January 1, 2015.
The author, known for his unconventional writing style, presents a work that combines elements of horror, mystery, and experimental fiction. The story takes place in a small town in California, named The Navidson Record, where a group of people attend a chaotic and sinister auction.
The main characters are introduced early in the story, and the reader can sense that each of them has a mysterious backstory that will be revealed later on. The setting, dark and murky, is a character in itself, adding to the sense of unease that permeates the narrative.
The conflicts that arise are complex and multi-layered, and the plot structure is non-linear and fragmented, emphasizing the feeling of disorientation experienced by the characters.
The book has a metafictional approach, blending reality and fiction, as well as different media, such as films, photographs, and literature.
The author masterfully weaves the different elements together, creating a unique and immersive reading experience. Danielewski also addresses themes such as memory, trauma, and the boundaries between art and life.
Despite the book’s strengths, the experimental form may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some readers may find the nonlinear narrative confusing and hard to follow.
Additionally, the extensive use of footnotes and annotations may be overwhelming for some.
In conclusion, One Rainy Day in May is a remarkable achievement in experimental fiction.
Danielewski’s skillful writing, unconventional approach, and attention to detail make this book a captivating and thought-provoking read. While it may not be for everyone, fans of horror and mystery, as well as readers interested in exploring the boundaries of storytelling, should definitely give it a chance.
The Washington Post gives it a solid recommendation and rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
