This unique work of epistolary fiction tells the tale of Jason Fitger, a beleaguered professor of creative writing and literature whose once promising career has faded and his romantic life left in self-proclaimed tatters. This distinctive narrative is presented through a collection of satirical letters of recommendation that Jason begrudgingly produces en masse for his colleagues and students.
Through the letters we learn of Jason’s frustrations towards the internal politics of higher education, resentment towards financial cuts and of his comically articulated unsuccessful relationships. Dear Committee Members is a sardonic commentary on the superfluity of menial formalities and a self-reflexive critique on the meaningless praise that he is required to conjure in these endless LORs. Embedded with subtle witticisms that keep you on your toes throughout, this is ultimately an inventive and intriguing portrait of contemporary life.
It definitely appeals to that classically English melancholic pessimism and is my sort of humour completely, but while it left me wanting to meet Julie and share her quirky sense of humour (perhaps over a pint or two), as a book I’m not sure if it works. A lucid story does unravel and there are characters that almost come to life, but it is hard to feel as though you know them in any great depth and that is what I was left pining for.
Dear Committee Members is chuckle-worthy and certainly different, but not for the plot driven reader.
Reviews by Meg 