Synopsis

Set against the stark beauty of Morecambe Bay and the vibrant chaos of Coney Island, "The Electric Michelangelo" chronicles the extraordinary life of Cy Parks. His early years are shaped by the melancholic atmosphere of his mother's guesthouse for consumptives and his apprenticeship under an alcoholic tattoo artist. Driven by a thirst for new experiences, Cy eventually flees to America, establishing himself as 'The Electric Michelangelo' amidst the boisterous boardwalks, roller-coasters, and freak-shows of Coney Island. There, he becomes captivated by Grace, an enigmatic immigrant and circus performer. Their connection deepens as Grace commissions Cy to undertake an audacious project: to cover her entire body with tattooed eyes. Sarah Hall masterfully weaves a tale of love, artistry, and obsession, painting exquisitely rendered portraits of seaside resorts on both sides of the Atlantic. It's a profoundly atmospheric and exotic narrative, exploring identity, human connection, and the intricate beauty of the human canvas.

Critical Reception

"A lyrical and deeply evocative work, "The Electric Michelangelo" solidified Sarah Hall's reputation as one of contemporary literature's most distinctive and ambitious voices, earning a place on the Booker Prize shortlist."

Metadata

ISBN:9780571267644
Pages:356
Age Rating:16+

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