The Time In Between by David Bergen ***1/2

This is an unusual book that is seductive in its simplicity. The writing style reminds me, sort of, of Hemmingway’s minimalist approach: simple sentences, simple language, engaging, direct and effective. The book is the 2005 Giller prize winning novel. (Yes I know I am a little behind in my reading).

It is also unusual as it is written by a Canadian, David Bergen, who lives in Winnipeg. It focuses on an ex-US Marine who fought in the Vietnam War. Moves to Canada and has three children and then most of the chronicle takes place in Vietnam.
The story is multilayered. It deals with the vet, Charles Boatman, his post-traumatic stress, the source of his trauma, his life in the Canadian wilderness, his mental turmoil, and his return to modern Vietnam hoping to find hope and his search for personal meaningfulness.

It also contrasts this with two of his children, Jon and Ada. It shares insights of their upbringing, and when their father disappears in Vietnam they travel to that country to search for his whereabouts. For Ada the search evolves into a search for self that almost parallels her fathers.

As a backdrop the mystic of South East Asia becomes captivating in itself.

I enjoyed this book.