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The Book of Chameleons

 Hey everyone! I can't believe this is already my last novel in this course; time really does fly! This class has been so much fun and a rewarding experience. I almost don't want it to end so soon. This week, I read the "Book of Chameleons" written by Jose Eduardo Agualusa. Initially, before reading this book, the title of this book made me think of the song "Karma Chameleon" by Boy George. I couldn't stop singing this song for a couple of days, lol. (If you haven't heard this song, I highly recommend it, it's a great song). This song is similar to this book in a way. The chameleon serves as a metaphor in both, and a celebration of individuals' diversity and uniqueness. I also thought this book was going to include a Chameleon... 


This novel dives into themes of identity, memory, culture, and transformation and change. Just like how chameleons can change colours to help them survive in their surroundings, the characters undergo transformations just as a chameleon would, showing how we can all change. I found it very fun that the book was narrated through the eyes of a gecko who lives in Felix Ventura's house. Felix Ventura has a very different job from any other job I have heard before. His unique job is to change the identity of people by giving them new pasts. The gecko observes and comments on Felix's interactions with his clients and also offers a reflection on identity, life, and storytelling. I loved how Agualusa makes you question reality, what is actually real, and what is made up. This book had a magic around it mixed with reality which was a pleseant experience. 


I'm happy I got to finish this course with "The Book of Chameleons." It was a nice read. The gecko's distinctive viewpoint, meshed with elements of magic realism, added depth to the narrative, making it a very thought-provoking experience. The book not only reveals a world where changing your past is possible but also makes you think about your own history and the stories we all hold. I think it's pretty unique how it brought such contemplation, creating questions about memory, truth, and our individual experiences. 


Here are my questions for you guys:

  1. What are your thoughts on the ending?
  2. How does José Eduardo Agualusa use the character of the gecko to explore themes of identity and transformation?
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Comments

  1. Daniel OrizagaMarch 26, 2024 at 8:07 PM

    “The book not only reveals a world where changing your past is possible but also makes you think about your own history and the stories we all hold.“ Ah... but the novel also talks about how dangerous this can be. What do you think, for example, of the political consequences of changing the past and the consequences for the characters, especially for Buchman and Barata?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nadia UlanowskaMarch 26, 2024 at 8:33 PM

    Hey Julia! I think the ending speaks volumes about truth and it's value. In the end, Felix comes to terms with his past and reconnects with his long lost sister Áurea, he becomes more comfortable in his identity as a person and also as an Albino. Without the truth and these events, he would have never solidified his identity, showcasing the value of truth.

    -Nadia Ulanowska

    ReplyDelete
  3. Jon Beasley-MurrayMarch 26, 2024 at 10:03 PM

    '"Karma Chameleon" by Boy George.' Ha! You take me back. (Actually, Culture Club, rather than Boy George, as he had yet to go solo.)

    ReplyDelete

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