Genres
Collection
Publication
Little, Brown and Company (2008), Edition: Large Print, 373 pages
Description
At a New England boarding school, a sex scandal is about to break. Even more shocking than the sexual acts themselves is the fact that they were caught on videotape. A Pandora's box of revelations, the tape triggers a chorus of voices--those of the men, women, teenagers, and parents involved in the scandal--that details the ways in which lives can be derailed or destroyed in one foolish moment.
Media reviews
This is my second read for this author and I have to say, I am underwhelmed... after reading Rescue, I was looking forward to reading more by Anita Shreve but Testimony seemed to miss the mark.
A very enticing topic, I thought this book held a lot of promise. However, I found that the book
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lacked organization and that would be it's main downfall, in my opinion. It seemed to jump from year-to-year without mention of when it was and while this is normally not an issue, it was hard to figure out and I spend unnecessary time figuring it out. Also, the jumping from character to character, when added to the year-to-year jumping, was very confusing. Having so many characters involved, I almost needed a family tree/chart to keep track of who each person was and what their involvement in the story/crime was... very hard to track.
On a whole, the story was very good. I enjoyed the plot and I liked the twist that comes towards the end, regarding Silas and his family. It was very unexpected and definitely made me read that much harder to get to the bottom of the story.
Overall, I am glad that I have read this book and being at a 50% for the author, I will give her another try.
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I would encourage every parent of a teenage girl to give her a copy of Testimony. Certainly, it contains several passages that are bleakly obscene. But it also offers girls the exact kind of story they want to read
User reviews
LibraryThing member avisannschild
First off, I must say right away that Anita Shreve is one of my favourite authors. Although I have only read half of her 14 novels so far, the ones I had read before Testimony fall into two categories: those I loved, own and will probably reread at some point and those I enjoyed but probably
Testimony begins with a headmaster at a private school in Vermont viewing a videotape of sexual acts involving four students: three young men of 18 or 19 and a 14-year old girl. The story is told in a multiplicity of voices, from the students involved to their parents, teachers and various other members of the community. It felt like the first half of the book circled around and around the event, jumping from one character to the next as well as back and forth through time without actually getting any closer to the specifics of what had happened that fateful night or why. I found this part of the book hard to get into and sometimes confusing. None of the characters came across as very sympathetic, or rather the revolving narration kept me at arms’ length from all of them. About 150 pages in, I seriously contemplated abandoning the book. However, something shifted around that point. From then on, all the narratives seemed to zero in on the videotaped event in a much more linear fashion and a couple of the characters clearly emerged as sympathetic. My favourite passages are those written from Noelle’s point of view; her descriptions of her evolving relationship with Silas are tender and moving. The ending of the book was satisfying up to a point, but I was still left feeling a bit cold about the whole thing.
[POSSIBLE SPOILER]
Besides the structure of the book, what disappointed me the most about this novel is that Shreve failed to explore the girl’s motivations or backstory in any way. Instead, she is basically portrayed as the anonymous catalyst for the ruin of many other lives. It didn’t feel like her life—what little we knew of it—was changed very drastically by this otherwise momentous event.
[END OF POSSIBLE SPOILER]
Overall, I felt very meh about this book. I highly recommend you pick up one of Shreve’s earlier novels instead.
A slightly different version of this review can be found on my blog, she reads and reads.
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wouldn’t read again and therefore don’t own. Unfortunately, Testimony fits into a new and disappointing category of its own, as it is the first Shreve novel I haven’t enjoyed.Testimony begins with a headmaster at a private school in Vermont viewing a videotape of sexual acts involving four students: three young men of 18 or 19 and a 14-year old girl. The story is told in a multiplicity of voices, from the students involved to their parents, teachers and various other members of the community. It felt like the first half of the book circled around and around the event, jumping from one character to the next as well as back and forth through time without actually getting any closer to the specifics of what had happened that fateful night or why. I found this part of the book hard to get into and sometimes confusing. None of the characters came across as very sympathetic, or rather the revolving narration kept me at arms’ length from all of them. About 150 pages in, I seriously contemplated abandoning the book. However, something shifted around that point. From then on, all the narratives seemed to zero in on the videotaped event in a much more linear fashion and a couple of the characters clearly emerged as sympathetic. My favourite passages are those written from Noelle’s point of view; her descriptions of her evolving relationship with Silas are tender and moving. The ending of the book was satisfying up to a point, but I was still left feeling a bit cold about the whole thing.
[POSSIBLE SPOILER]
Besides the structure of the book, what disappointed me the most about this novel is that Shreve failed to explore the girl’s motivations or backstory in any way. Instead, she is basically portrayed as the anonymous catalyst for the ruin of many other lives. It didn’t feel like her life—what little we knew of it—was changed very drastically by this otherwise momentous event.
[END OF POSSIBLE SPOILER]
Overall, I felt very meh about this book. I highly recommend you pick up one of Shreve’s earlier novels instead.
A slightly different version of this review can be found on my blog, she reads and reads.
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LibraryThing member ForeignCircus
This was a wonderful, tragic, and unforgettable book about actions and consequences, about sinning and redemption, about life and death, about guilt and blame. At first I found the shifting perpectives a little difficult, but once I sank into the story, I ceased to even notice. It is hard to talk
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about the plot without spoiling the narrative- the central element for each person's story is one bad decision that ties into the bad decisions of others eventually escalating into a terrible act. Even though it became clear fairly quickly where the story was moving, I was still gripped by the hope that I was wrong. As events unfolded as I knew they must, I couldn't stop myself from crying even though I knew the whole time exactly where we were going to end. Shreve is a gifted writer, and this is an excellent book that will stick with you long after you have finished reading. 5 strong stars- highly recommended! Show Less
LibraryThing member lunacat
When a videotape surfaces, showing three boys and a girl performing sexual acts with each other, it's everyones worst nightmare. Especially when the boys are aged from seventeen to nineteen, and the girl is only fourteen, even though it appears that she was a very willing participant in the events.
This book is written as if the people involved are telling a researcher who is looking into the effects alcohol has on boys behaviour. Taken from many different viewpoints, it reaches from well before the tape was made until well after, and shows all the different events that lead up to that night.
Whilst this isn't the first book I have read that deals in different viewpoints, I think that it is the one that has the most voices. We hear the stories of twenty different people, including all the people in the tape, the headmaster of the school, various parents, teachers, students etc. And it certainly gives an insight into a lot of different aspects and repercussions, including little details such as people making a fortune renting their houses out when the press need places to stay. However, there were just too many for me to be able to ever connect with the novel.
There was also writing in the first, second and third person and for me, it didn't work. I was always slightly distracted by what was coming next and what technique was going to be used in the following chapter.
If the writer had stuck to the main characters stories I think this would have flowed a whole lot better, instead of stopping and starting. I recognise that it was written as a testimony with all involved having their say, but it dramatically reduced the emotional impact. Some of the voices felt real but others didn't, put there simply to give an unnecessary perspective that could have been told some other way.
However, the basic storyline was an interesting one, and certain viewpoints were extremely well told. For me, there was just too much going on.
An interesting but muddled account of a private school scandal.
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It seems even more shocking as all on the video were students at the private Avery Academy in Vermont, and the press has a field day, tearing apart peoples lives as they do so.This book is written as if the people involved are telling a researcher who is looking into the effects alcohol has on boys behaviour. Taken from many different viewpoints, it reaches from well before the tape was made until well after, and shows all the different events that lead up to that night.
Whilst this isn't the first book I have read that deals in different viewpoints, I think that it is the one that has the most voices. We hear the stories of twenty different people, including all the people in the tape, the headmaster of the school, various parents, teachers, students etc. And it certainly gives an insight into a lot of different aspects and repercussions, including little details such as people making a fortune renting their houses out when the press need places to stay. However, there were just too many for me to be able to ever connect with the novel.
There was also writing in the first, second and third person and for me, it didn't work. I was always slightly distracted by what was coming next and what technique was going to be used in the following chapter.
If the writer had stuck to the main characters stories I think this would have flowed a whole lot better, instead of stopping and starting. I recognise that it was written as a testimony with all involved having their say, but it dramatically reduced the emotional impact. Some of the voices felt real but others didn't, put there simply to give an unnecessary perspective that could have been told some other way.
However, the basic storyline was an interesting one, and certain viewpoints were extremely well told. For me, there was just too much going on.
An interesting but muddled account of a private school scandal.
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LibraryThing member writestuff
Anita Shreve’s newest novel Testimony (due for release by Little, Brown and Company on October 21st) is a riveting story. The book is set in Vermont at a small, private school and told from multiple view points. Mike Bordwin, the headmaster of Avery Academy, is shocked when he views a tape which
As the novel unfolds, the reader discovers each character’s unique perspective of the event and the consequences of their behaviors. There is no one who is left unscathed as each character “tells” their side of the story, including the parents and children directly involved and those seemingly minor characters such as the guy who sells alcohol to minors and the cafeteria lady at the school.
Taut, gripping and impossible to put down, Shreve’s novel explores the devastating aftermath of this one event. Nothing is as it seems and each character’s decisions will have an impact impossible to predict. Thematically the novel explores the tenuous relationships between parent and child, and looks at how expectations can be shattered in the course of a night. This is a book which I predict will make the book club circuit and become a favorite to discuss.
I recommend this provocative novel to those readers who are not offended by graphic sexual scenes and difficult subject matter.
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shows a 14 year old girl at the school engaging in a drunken orgy with three male students - all of whom are 18 years old or older. He recognizes the young men as stars of the school basketball team and is faced with a dilemma. Should he keep the “problem” contained to the school disciplinary committee, or is this a criminal act that should involve law enforcement?As the novel unfolds, the reader discovers each character’s unique perspective of the event and the consequences of their behaviors. There is no one who is left unscathed as each character “tells” their side of the story, including the parents and children directly involved and those seemingly minor characters such as the guy who sells alcohol to minors and the cafeteria lady at the school.
Taut, gripping and impossible to put down, Shreve’s novel explores the devastating aftermath of this one event. Nothing is as it seems and each character’s decisions will have an impact impossible to predict. Thematically the novel explores the tenuous relationships between parent and child, and looks at how expectations can be shattered in the course of a night. This is a book which I predict will make the book club circuit and become a favorite to discuss.
I recommend this provocative novel to those readers who are not offended by graphic sexual scenes and difficult subject matter.
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LibraryThing member ddirmeyer
I haven't read all of Anita Shreve's books. I tend to shy away from most Oprah selected authors as I find their books to be too "happily ever after" in the face of true hardships. I was thrilled that this book was definitely not in that category.
Shreve opens her book with a bang - outlining the
Shreve develops characters that are believable and stay true in the actions to what you would expect. I had a difficult time reading the book occasionally due to the tragic circumstances unfolding. However, I could not look away for more than a couple of minutes without diving right back into her gripping story.
Each character is flawed, as are people in real life. And no, we don't all have happy endings. I do feel there are many lessons to be learned from Shreve's story. An important one is that Shreve is a masterful story teller.
Shreve opens her book with a bang - outlining the
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tragedies that have occurred as a result of actions at a boarding high school during a few shorts months. As the chapters rotate among the voices of various characters, we learn that one tragic night at the high school has caused shock waves that will last some for the rest of their lives. We also learn that the singular night might have been prevented if other actions had not occurred earlier in the year.Shreve develops characters that are believable and stay true in the actions to what you would expect. I had a difficult time reading the book occasionally due to the tragic circumstances unfolding. However, I could not look away for more than a couple of minutes without diving right back into her gripping story.
Each character is flawed, as are people in real life. And no, we don't all have happy endings. I do feel there are many lessons to be learned from Shreve's story. An important one is that Shreve is a masterful story teller.
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LibraryThing member morbidromantic
In Testimony, Avery Academy is an elite private school for some of the smartest young people and most promising athletes. Three of these students, Silas, Rob, and J.Dot are popular, athletic, and intelligent, all with bright futures ahead of them. But all of that is destroyed by the events of a few
The story of the party and the aftermath is told through a variety of perspective. Everyone involved from students to parents to lunch ladies give their side, all except Rob, who is given one very significant part at the end of the novel. As the events unfold, you are witness to a number of different viewpoints, which all show different sides to how people deal with anger, fear, and sexuality. Testimony is about more than just the three boys, though, because the storyline exposes multiple relationships and secrets beyond the tape and the boys.
The way the story is written is unique. Some of the chapters are in first person, some in second person, and some in third person. This is a bit hard to get used to, but after a while you get into the pace of the book and the switching of person throws you off less. And sometimes, like with the second person scenes of Rob’s mother Ellen, it feels surreal and dreamlike. Since she is in a state of shock throughout, I believe that this was intentional. For others, you are meant to put yourself in their shoes, and others, to watch and judge.
This is a book that will leave you at war with yourself, as I did with me. You will question innocence and guilt, law and the nature of humans. You see that the boys are just boys, fallible and ultimately good. Do they deserve to have their entire lives ruined with a sexual assault charge? Do they deserve to lose their entire future for the events of one night? Is the girl to blame at least in part for wanting it; does this excuse what the boys did? Or should she be blameless because she is so young? Does the fact that she was consenting matter at all? You want to protect the child, but… who is the child? They are all children and you want to protect them all, even the girl, who comes across through her parts as very superficial and flighty. It didn’t help that the victim cried rape at first and accused the boys of giving her a date rape drug, an excuse she cooked up to keep from getting in trouble with her parents when the tape was discovered. Naturally, putting the blame on the girl makes you feel guilty as the reader, as it did with me, and the thought of a girl so young being involved with boys so much older is frightening. After all, Silas, Rob, and J.Dot should have known better. They should have.
But even good people sometimes make mistakes. Yet a mistake like this is, quite honestly, unforgivable? Or is it? You see? You will be at war with yourself. It is a hard one to think about. In the end, you sort of just wish that none of it had ever happened because it’s impossible to know who to blame, who to hate, and who to pity. I obviously very much enjoyed this book because it is very poignant, and it doesn’t shy away from a subject that is sensitive.
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minutes one night when drinking at a party gets out of hand. Caught on tape is the three boys having drunken sexual relations with a 14 year old girl who also attends the academy. Soon after being made, the tape falls into the hands of school Headmaster, Mike, who must decide what to do with the boys. It’s pretty clear from the start what sort of difficulties he is going to face.The story of the party and the aftermath is told through a variety of perspective. Everyone involved from students to parents to lunch ladies give their side, all except Rob, who is given one very significant part at the end of the novel. As the events unfold, you are witness to a number of different viewpoints, which all show different sides to how people deal with anger, fear, and sexuality. Testimony is about more than just the three boys, though, because the storyline exposes multiple relationships and secrets beyond the tape and the boys.
The way the story is written is unique. Some of the chapters are in first person, some in second person, and some in third person. This is a bit hard to get used to, but after a while you get into the pace of the book and the switching of person throws you off less. And sometimes, like with the second person scenes of Rob’s mother Ellen, it feels surreal and dreamlike. Since she is in a state of shock throughout, I believe that this was intentional. For others, you are meant to put yourself in their shoes, and others, to watch and judge.
This is a book that will leave you at war with yourself, as I did with me. You will question innocence and guilt, law and the nature of humans. You see that the boys are just boys, fallible and ultimately good. Do they deserve to have their entire lives ruined with a sexual assault charge? Do they deserve to lose their entire future for the events of one night? Is the girl to blame at least in part for wanting it; does this excuse what the boys did? Or should she be blameless because she is so young? Does the fact that she was consenting matter at all? You want to protect the child, but… who is the child? They are all children and you want to protect them all, even the girl, who comes across through her parts as very superficial and flighty. It didn’t help that the victim cried rape at first and accused the boys of giving her a date rape drug, an excuse she cooked up to keep from getting in trouble with her parents when the tape was discovered. Naturally, putting the blame on the girl makes you feel guilty as the reader, as it did with me, and the thought of a girl so young being involved with boys so much older is frightening. After all, Silas, Rob, and J.Dot should have known better. They should have.
But even good people sometimes make mistakes. Yet a mistake like this is, quite honestly, unforgivable? Or is it? You see? You will be at war with yourself. It is a hard one to think about. In the end, you sort of just wish that none of it had ever happened because it’s impossible to know who to blame, who to hate, and who to pity. I obviously very much enjoyed this book because it is very poignant, and it doesn’t shy away from a subject that is sensitive.
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LibraryThing member stephaniechase
I keep reading Anita Shreve's books, and I am never quite sure why when I am done. Testimony is told from the point of view of so, so many characters, we never get to the heart of the matter, of what people really think about the incident that forms the core of the book.
LibraryThing member karieh
I have mixed feelings about Anita Shreve’s Testimony. On one hand, several of the characters grabbed my attention and many passages were very well written. On the other hand, I’m still not sure that I believe the underlying events of the book.
Also – one of the main characters that I am quite
This novel is a series of ever unfolding “If onlys”. If only this hadn’t happened, then if only this hadn’t happened… One small thing leads to something slightly larger…and at the end of the day, so many lives and indeed, the story of one small New England town are forever changed.
Shreve lets the story out in bits and pieces – through different characters and through different points of view. The victim, the accused, the parents, the townspeople…all are allowed to provide their accounts of what happened on Saturday night at Avery Academy. Each offers a different perspective and usually a few more details on the people involved.
“Mike got up off the floor and sat on the sofa while he loosened his tie and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt, as if increasing the blood flow to the bran might help solve his problem. And it was then that the word containment entered his mind. And with that word, moral, ethical, and political choices were made, though Mike would realize the implications of these only later, when it occurred to him that he might have chosen at that moment another word, such as revelation, say, or help.”
Shreve lays out good cases for each character’s actions – but in same cases – the facts just don’t ring true. I found myself shaking my head and felt my suspension of disbelief falling away.
And yet – despite some flaws – the characters were interesting. They bring to life the stories one hears on the news of “This small town/school/community rocked by…” Shocking secrets, events, choices.
“You told me you would love me forever. I think that is not true now. And so a person can never promise to love someone forever, because you never know what might come up, what terrible thing the person you love might do. And what does that feel like, not to love someone anymore? One day you love him, and the next day you don’t because you have seen him on a tape? Where does all that love go? Does it go away all at once, or does it go away in terrible bits every time you picture the tape until there is nothing left?”
These characters put faces to the footage and make one think about how “If only…” – the small day to day choices that may ultimately change lives.
Also – one of the main characters that I am quite
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sure I was supposed to sympathize with did nothing but repel me.This novel is a series of ever unfolding “If onlys”. If only this hadn’t happened, then if only this hadn’t happened… One small thing leads to something slightly larger…and at the end of the day, so many lives and indeed, the story of one small New England town are forever changed.
Shreve lets the story out in bits and pieces – through different characters and through different points of view. The victim, the accused, the parents, the townspeople…all are allowed to provide their accounts of what happened on Saturday night at Avery Academy. Each offers a different perspective and usually a few more details on the people involved.
“Mike got up off the floor and sat on the sofa while he loosened his tie and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt, as if increasing the blood flow to the bran might help solve his problem. And it was then that the word containment entered his mind. And with that word, moral, ethical, and political choices were made, though Mike would realize the implications of these only later, when it occurred to him that he might have chosen at that moment another word, such as revelation, say, or help.”
Shreve lays out good cases for each character’s actions – but in same cases – the facts just don’t ring true. I found myself shaking my head and felt my suspension of disbelief falling away.
And yet – despite some flaws – the characters were interesting. They bring to life the stories one hears on the news of “This small town/school/community rocked by…” Shocking secrets, events, choices.
“You told me you would love me forever. I think that is not true now. And so a person can never promise to love someone forever, because you never know what might come up, what terrible thing the person you love might do. And what does that feel like, not to love someone anymore? One day you love him, and the next day you don’t because you have seen him on a tape? Where does all that love go? Does it go away all at once, or does it go away in terrible bits every time you picture the tape until there is nothing left?”
These characters put faces to the footage and make one think about how “If only…” – the small day to day choices that may ultimately change lives.
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LibraryThing member sagustocox
Testimony by Anita Shreve, which will be released on Oct. 21, was such a surprise in my mailbox from Hatchette Group's Miriam Parker. Thanks, Miriam! I met Anita Shreve at the 2002 National Book Festival signing in Washington, D.C. I've been in love with her writing since I first read The Pilot's
Testimony is one of those novels that slowly draws you into a prep school known as Avery Academy in Vermont where four boys and one girl make a decision that will change their lives and the lives of other students, teachers, administrators, families, and neighbors for years to come. Testimony is given throughout the novel from a number of characters--minor and major characters--illustrating the depth to which decisions of one or several people can impact others who are seemingly unconnected to the decision-makers. Jacqueline Barnard, a researcher from the University of Vermont, receives the interviews either in written form or through personal encounters with several of the characters.
The videotape that surfaces in Avery Academy Headmaster Mike Bordwin's office is central to the story that unfolds in the novel, but another decision among a pair of adults also impacts the students and others in the town. Shreve is a master of character development and setting. I was drawn into the bitter cold winter snow of Vermont and the coziness of the town and the school, as well as the dark undercurrents in each of these characters' lives. Shreve is adept at highlighting the nuances of how underage sex and drinking affects the students, the faculty, and others, while not preaching to the reader.
Silas and Noelle, two of the main adolescents in the novel, share a deep connection to one another at a tender age. It was tough to watch how this connection was tested and ultimately severed. Silas and his mother, Anna, also have a tight bond and naturally this connection is tested. Another adolescent boy, J. Dot and his bravado, serves as a foil to Silas' hard-working, compassionate, and dutiful persona. Noelle is the naive and romantic girl-next-door, while Sienna is the wild girl looking for trouble even if it is on a subconscious level.
As always, Shreve has outdone herself in this novel, weaving a series of disjointed testimonies into a coherent and heart-wrenching story of love, loss, responsibility, and adolescence. I've often wondered if Shreve has ever tried her hand at poetry because the language she creates on the page paints a vivid image, and those images often conjure deeper meanings and emotions for the reader.
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Wife many years before that, and I will admit here that I've tried to emulate her style in my own writing, though my writing has not met muster.Testimony is one of those novels that slowly draws you into a prep school known as Avery Academy in Vermont where four boys and one girl make a decision that will change their lives and the lives of other students, teachers, administrators, families, and neighbors for years to come. Testimony is given throughout the novel from a number of characters--minor and major characters--illustrating the depth to which decisions of one or several people can impact others who are seemingly unconnected to the decision-makers. Jacqueline Barnard, a researcher from the University of Vermont, receives the interviews either in written form or through personal encounters with several of the characters.
The videotape that surfaces in Avery Academy Headmaster Mike Bordwin's office is central to the story that unfolds in the novel, but another decision among a pair of adults also impacts the students and others in the town. Shreve is a master of character development and setting. I was drawn into the bitter cold winter snow of Vermont and the coziness of the town and the school, as well as the dark undercurrents in each of these characters' lives. Shreve is adept at highlighting the nuances of how underage sex and drinking affects the students, the faculty, and others, while not preaching to the reader.
Silas and Noelle, two of the main adolescents in the novel, share a deep connection to one another at a tender age. It was tough to watch how this connection was tested and ultimately severed. Silas and his mother, Anna, also have a tight bond and naturally this connection is tested. Another adolescent boy, J. Dot and his bravado, serves as a foil to Silas' hard-working, compassionate, and dutiful persona. Noelle is the naive and romantic girl-next-door, while Sienna is the wild girl looking for trouble even if it is on a subconscious level.
As always, Shreve has outdone herself in this novel, weaving a series of disjointed testimonies into a coherent and heart-wrenching story of love, loss, responsibility, and adolescence. I've often wondered if Shreve has ever tried her hand at poetry because the language she creates on the page paints a vivid image, and those images often conjure deeper meanings and emotions for the reader.
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LibraryThing member carpenter.beth
The first chapter certainly caught my attention and made me uneasy! This book is told through the experiences and voices of different characters, all somehow involved in a scandal at a private school in Vermont. The event changes their lives drastically, maybe irrevocably, and the full truth of the
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situation doesn't arrive until the last chapter. I didn't think this was the best of Shreve's novels, but it did grab me and entertain me. Show Less
LibraryThing member NovelBookworm
Testimony by Anita Shreve portrays the events on the campus of an exclusive private prep school. A video is made of 3 young basketball players and a sexually precocious 14 year old girl. The sex scandal explodes, and this story is told through the voices of those involved. Participants, family
I've not read any of Anita Shreve's past work, and I think that I've really been missing out on a great author. Testimony is similar to cases we've read about in the news; the Duke Lacrosse scandal comes to mind. But in this case, we're privy to the thoughts and actions of participants and observers. This gives us perspectives that we may never have considered in the past. The line between guilt and innocence become a bit blurred and our shifting perspective challenges our ideas of right and wrong. Occasionally, near the beginning of the novel, it is a bit difficult to keep the large cast of characters straight and there were times when I would have to go back a few chapters to refresh my memory. By the time the book ends though, we feel that we know these people as well as anyone can.
Testimony is disturbing, on one occasion, heart breaking and thought provoking.
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members, townsfolk and faculty are all heard in this brilliant study of a scandal. I've not read any of Anita Shreve's past work, and I think that I've really been missing out on a great author. Testimony is similar to cases we've read about in the news; the Duke Lacrosse scandal comes to mind. But in this case, we're privy to the thoughts and actions of participants and observers. This gives us perspectives that we may never have considered in the past. The line between guilt and innocence become a bit blurred and our shifting perspective challenges our ideas of right and wrong. Occasionally, near the beginning of the novel, it is a bit difficult to keep the large cast of characters straight and there were times when I would have to go back a few chapters to refresh my memory. By the time the book ends though, we feel that we know these people as well as anyone can.
Testimony is disturbing, on one occasion, heart breaking and thought provoking.
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LibraryThing member detailmuse
Beautifully written, Testimony is a cautionary tale that examines the precipitating factors and aftermath of a student sex scandal at a private Vermont high school. Told through the alternating personal testimonies of 21 people involved or impacted -- the victim/perpetrators; their parents and
The explosive premise brought to mind the Duke University lacrosse-team scandal and the local and national reaction to it. Short chapters drew me in, and the close-up points of view revealed character in a way that led to understanding and, in almost every case, sympathy. It was tricky at first to keep the characters straight while so many were being introduced. But when the story took hold and progressed, it became riveting. Perhaps my favorite novel by the author to date.
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friends; the headmaster, school staff and students; police; the media -- its creative structure is an all-out exploration of viewpoint: first-, third-, and even second-person, in past and present tenses.The explosive premise brought to mind the Duke University lacrosse-team scandal and the local and national reaction to it. Short chapters drew me in, and the close-up points of view revealed character in a way that led to understanding and, in almost every case, sympathy. It was tricky at first to keep the characters straight while so many were being introduced. But when the story took hold and progressed, it became riveting. Perhaps my favorite novel by the author to date.
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LibraryThing member keywestnan
A surprisingly compelling read, given its deeply disturbing subject matter (a high school sexual encounter with one 14-year-old girl and three 18-year-old boys winds up on tape and destroys a number of lives). Besides the obvious issues of sex and youth and responsibility, it deals with a lot more,
It sounds like this book might have been loosely inspired (definitely not "based on") the Duke lacrosse rape case -- the public perception is that the incident is about entitled young men on a sports team and alcohol abuse, and there are mutterings about the coach being fired and the team shut down for the season. And some of the characters are portrayed pretty unflatteringly, especially the oldest young man involved (he's 19, a post-grad at the prep school, which is common practice that students use to burnish themselves for college and prep schools use to burnish their sports teams).
Despite the fact that this was, basically, a horrifying story I found myself reading it in two long sittings. It was one of those where it's kind of a relief to remind yourself that it's fiction.
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especially class and responsibility.It sounds like this book might have been loosely inspired (definitely not "based on") the Duke lacrosse rape case -- the public perception is that the incident is about entitled young men on a sports team and alcohol abuse, and there are mutterings about the coach being fired and the team shut down for the season. And some of the characters are portrayed pretty unflatteringly, especially the oldest young man involved (he's 19, a post-grad at the prep school, which is common practice that students use to burnish themselves for college and prep schools use to burnish their sports teams).
Despite the fact that this was, basically, a horrifying story I found myself reading it in two long sittings. It was one of those where it's kind of a relief to remind yourself that it's fiction.
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LibraryThing member Nitestar
For some reason, other than The Pilot's Wife, I had never really read anything else by Anita Shreve, so I was thrilled when I was given the opportunity of reading Testimony. First off, I love the cover - it sends the message that this is going to be a dark and broody story. Its perfect for the
Testimony is, on the surface, the story of a group of students who engage in illicit sexual activities and then have the brainstorm of taping them - this is a big mistake as the tape gets into the headmaster's hands and precipitates a series of events that somehow take a life of their own.
Testimony is a book that is hard to review because the surface story is just that - a surface story - and behind the sexual scandal story lies another reality. So, with this in mind, I am trying to write this review without giving anything away.
Of course, this is also one of the strong points of this novel - you get an enigma, within another enigma - its like a gift that you keep unwrapping to find another one and another one...
The prose is a tad too flowery for my taste however and this, to me, removes from the novel. I prefer my writing to be a little bit more to the point and a little less dramatic in style, but for longtime fans of Anita Shreve, I believe this will only add to the richness of this book.
I enjoyed the storyline a great deal and while I thought Shreve took a while to get there, she does tell a wonderful story.
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actual storyline. I am very big on covers and find that if I don't like the cover, I often don't care for the story (yeah, I know sounds a tad shallow) but I am honest!Testimony is, on the surface, the story of a group of students who engage in illicit sexual activities and then have the brainstorm of taping them - this is a big mistake as the tape gets into the headmaster's hands and precipitates a series of events that somehow take a life of their own.
Testimony is a book that is hard to review because the surface story is just that - a surface story - and behind the sexual scandal story lies another reality. So, with this in mind, I am trying to write this review without giving anything away.
Of course, this is also one of the strong points of this novel - you get an enigma, within another enigma - its like a gift that you keep unwrapping to find another one and another one...
The prose is a tad too flowery for my taste however and this, to me, removes from the novel. I prefer my writing to be a little bit more to the point and a little less dramatic in style, but for longtime fans of Anita Shreve, I believe this will only add to the richness of this book.
I enjoyed the storyline a great deal and while I thought Shreve took a while to get there, she does tell a wonderful story.
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LibraryThing member akreese
First let me say that I loved this book! The writing is amazing - each character is so vivid and memorable that I felt the characters' heartaches as if they were my own.
As the story develops, and the origins of the student sex tape are discovered, more mysteries surface. Where is Silas, and why is
The chapters of this book shift between the points of view of the many people involved in the private school scandal. Some of the chapters are written from the first person point of view, while others are written from the second and third person. I found that the shift in perspective, from chapter to chapter, really enhanced the development of the characters throughout the book, giving each one their own unique voice.
I expected this book to be about a teenage sex scandal, but it was so much more. The story also dealt with issues such as: fidelity, friendship, the effects of the media, and drinking.
This is a fabulous read that I couldn't put down! I highly recommend it.
As the story develops, and the origins of the student sex tape are discovered, more mysteries surface. Where is Silas, and why is
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he so angry? What triggers the chain of events that leads to so much heartache? Just how much responsibility should the teenage girl bear? With each new testimony layered upon the last, a complete picture of events begins to emerge, as the secrets are finally revealed.The chapters of this book shift between the points of view of the many people involved in the private school scandal. Some of the chapters are written from the first person point of view, while others are written from the second and third person. I found that the shift in perspective, from chapter to chapter, really enhanced the development of the characters throughout the book, giving each one their own unique voice.
I expected this book to be about a teenage sex scandal, but it was so much more. The story also dealt with issues such as: fidelity, friendship, the effects of the media, and drinking.
This is a fabulous read that I couldn't put down! I highly recommend it.
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LibraryThing member bachaney
I'm a big fan of Anita Shreve, and I've read all of her books. When I saw her newest novel, Testimony, in stores I picked it up immediately. What I discovered was that Testimony is a story different from Shreve's other novels. Most of her novels deal with a woman who falls in love in some life
Testimony still deals with a life changing event--but instead of love its a sex scandal at a tony private school. The book uses short passages from about a dozen characters connected to the scandal in different ways to reveal how it happened and its repercussions. Even though the scandal seems pretty straightforward from the start, there are some twists that happen through the course of the narrative that make the story much deeper than a ripped-from-the-headlines teen sex scandal story. In Shreve's usual style, Testimony keeps you turning the pages--I didn't want to put this book down.
I will warn readers that there are some graphic scenes in this novel--it does deal with a sex scandal. If this review system allowed half stars, I would give the novel 3 and a half stars--I enjoyed the book overall, but I was a little disappointed since I had enjoyed Shreve's earlier novels so much and was hoping for more of the same. But overall I think this book is worth reading--its a good story about the consequences of seemingly harmless actions.
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altering way--but Testimony is definitely different. Testimony still deals with a life changing event--but instead of love its a sex scandal at a tony private school. The book uses short passages from about a dozen characters connected to the scandal in different ways to reveal how it happened and its repercussions. Even though the scandal seems pretty straightforward from the start, there are some twists that happen through the course of the narrative that make the story much deeper than a ripped-from-the-headlines teen sex scandal story. In Shreve's usual style, Testimony keeps you turning the pages--I didn't want to put this book down.
I will warn readers that there are some graphic scenes in this novel--it does deal with a sex scandal. If this review system allowed half stars, I would give the novel 3 and a half stars--I enjoyed the book overall, but I was a little disappointed since I had enjoyed Shreve's earlier novels so much and was hoping for more of the same. But overall I think this book is worth reading--its a good story about the consequences of seemingly harmless actions.
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LibraryThing member mustreet
This book sucks you in right from the start, in a "can't put it down until I'm done" kind of way. Interesting story of a sexual indiscretion at a boarding school and the consequences the characters involved face in the wake of the incident.
LibraryThing member mawshimp
Testimony by Anita Shreve was interesting. The book starts out with a graphic description of a video made by teens at a private school. The video is of three boys and a girl having various forms of sex. It is being viewed by the headmaster of the school.
The rest of the book then takes us through
The story is written from many points of view - the various participants in the video, the headmaster, parents of the kids along with other kids affected. It is written by some in present time and some as it occurs. This sounds like it might be confusing, but it really isn't. Ms. Shreve does a great job with the writing to allow an easy transition between characters and time.
This book made me uncomfortable. And it made me think. Both of which were the intent, I believe.
I am giving it a four star rating - I am definitely glad I stuck through the difficult beginning and read it all the way through.
A big thanks to Miriam of Hachette Books for sending me this book. And check out other books by Anita Shreve. She has written many books that I've enjoyed and more that are on my tbr list.
The rest of the book then takes us through
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the what happened, the why and what happens after. It was hard on everyone involved, as you can imagine.The story is written from many points of view - the various participants in the video, the headmaster, parents of the kids along with other kids affected. It is written by some in present time and some as it occurs. This sounds like it might be confusing, but it really isn't. Ms. Shreve does a great job with the writing to allow an easy transition between characters and time.
This book made me uncomfortable. And it made me think. Both of which were the intent, I believe.
I am giving it a four star rating - I am definitely glad I stuck through the difficult beginning and read it all the way through.
A big thanks to Miriam of Hachette Books for sending me this book. And check out other books by Anita Shreve. She has written many books that I've enjoyed and more that are on my tbr list.
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LibraryThing member momma2keira
A must read! I think every teenage girl (and boy for that matter should read this.) It's a fictional book that could very well be a nonfiction. The story is about a sex scandal that breaks out at a private school in Vermont. It's the story of how one night of drinking and foolish behavior can
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destroy (or change the course of) the lives of many parties... even those not directly involved in the event. Show Less
LibraryThing member ristaureads
Anita Shreve's latest book has been an excellent read that I have continued to think about now almost a week after I finished it. Told in multiple perspectives, this book deals with the touchy subject of sexual assault, when a group of boys have sex with an underage girl at the boarding school they
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all attend. This one act is caught on tape and eventually changes the course of the lives involved. While it is a natural reflex to feel sorry for the victim, yet by reading her roommate's perspective and coming to know her as someone who is calculating and purposeful in her actions, the notion that the boys involved are horrible people is dispelled. Getting to know the boys - two of whom were always thought to be the "good kids" further reveals how multifaceted people are. I don't like all of Shreve's books, but this one is a winne Show Less
LibraryThing member hammockqueen
sex scandal at priv. high school with 14yr old and 3 older boys and head-master who is a problem all to himself. It reminded me of the rugby team and rape accused and the lawsuits and lives trashed. Good characters.
LibraryThing member miriamparker
I am a sucker for a boarding school book. And this one has it all. Scandal, scandal, scandal. Great for a plane or a beach or anyone who can't resist snowy high school drama.
LibraryThing member bhowell
I read every Anita Shreve book hot off the press because I don't have the self disipline to wait for a paperback. I loved this book and have already given it to a friend to read. Ms Shreve is a master of drama and this is a heartbreaking story with the tension of a thriller. A sexual indiscretion
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among students of an elite private school produces a whirlwind of destruction which devastates lives and ruins careers. Nothing will ever be the same for those involved and the story is told by its characters in the first person. Their testimony is the story. Show Less
LibraryThing member kiwifortyniner
The story takes place in a New England boarding school. A sex scandal breaks out involving three of the schools most promising basketball players and a girl of fourtenn and to make matters worse the whole incident has been recorded on a tape and the tape given to the headmaster who must now decide
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what he will do about it. The headmaster, trying to contain the event, calls two of the boys into his office (he is unable to find the third) and demands signed confessions from them both. The girl however claims she was assaulted and makes a report to the police and from then the whole incident spins out of control. Shreve tells of the events leading up to this from the view of many of the people involed in the story - the boys, the girl, the parents, the headmaster and the police. Each participants story is told in their own style. The characters are compelling , ordinary people whose lives are caught up in this tragedy, and changed in an instant. They will never be the same again. I found this a great read, one of her best. Show Less
LibraryThing member lkbside
An OK book by Anita Shreve whose books are inconsistent; some I like, some I don't. This one, revolving around a scandal at a prep school, basically examines the plot line of how one event or action can dramatically change the lives of many people. Each chapter is narrated by or about people who
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are affected by the scandal - the 3 boys, the 14 year old girl who sets it all in motion, the parents, the headmaster, etc. Show Less
Awards
The Flume: NH Teen Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — 2010)
Exclusive Books Boeke Prize (Shortlist — 2009)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2008-10-21
DDC/MDS
| 813.54 |
ISBN
0316024635 / 9780316024631
Other editions
Testimony: A Novel by Anita Shreve (Paperback)