Gilbert’s little hints, such as A.N. Dyer’s full initials spelling ‘AND’ with the title of the fictitious author being an Ampersand is a direct nudge to Gilbert’s own book title which also holds the same complexity.
Gilbert’s ardent focus on a linear plot makes for a smooth read over almost 450 pages, as the reader grows increasingly intrigued by the perplexity and shrouded nature of a dying Dyer. We get a glimpse of this from epistolary exchanges sent to Charlie Topping, Phillip’s father.
The gem within “& Sons” is in its humour; especially its devilish mockery of New York’s upper class and the fetishes with which Gilbert grew up. Gilbert’s & Sons is a brilliant look at the rich white male who comes to realise his inevitable mortality and tries to amend heal wounds one last time.
A Book Review by Azza El Masri
