Mordecai Richler was once considered one of the greatest shining
stars of his literary generation.
The author, essayist, journalist and screenwriter was known for his
controversial opinions on contemporary Canadian politics and
culture. He often wrote with biting wit and sharp satire. With the
release of his book, "Barney's Version," Richler was called "a
novelist at the top of his game," by the Wall Street Journal.
MacLean's magazine said the book was "a feast of non-stop
storytelling and arguably Richler's funniest book yet."
"Barney's Version," is the autobiography of fictional character
Barney Panofsky, a flambuoyant, perverted and stubborn Montreal
producer who believes no one can get along and that life is
completely absurd. He is proven somewhat right when his sworn enemy
accuses him of abuse, fraud and murder. The story unfolds with
Barney recalling his life, three marriages, and the disappearance
of the friend whose murder he is charged with.
On the surface Barney is an impossible individual, but his story
unfolds to be one of to demonstrate the power of love and family,
the frigtening process of aging and one's own death. Barney
Panofsky is very much a worthwhile individual not far from you or
I. It is a story anyone can relate to and a very good read. The
Montreal Gazette referred to it best in saying that "Barney's
Version," is, "by turns gripping, hilarious, ridiculous and
poignant."
The book would become the winner of the Giller Prize, the Stephen
Leacock Award for Humour and the Commonwealth Writer's Prize for
Best Book. It was also a 2004 Canada Read's selection.
Ten years after Mordecai Richler's death, and 13 years after the
book's original release, "Barney's Version," is making a comback. A
film version will premiere at the 2010 Toronto International Film
Festival. Starring Paul Giamatti, Dustin Hoffman and Minnie Driver,
it already has received rave reviews. A preview of that film is
available here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIu7kLKpZxE