If you're going to read Trumpet by Jackie Kay, don't read the back of the book, or any reviews, as they will spoil the big surprise. It occurs on page 21, and is probably the best bit.
This is a touchy-feely story about reactions to the death of a loved one, and for pretty much the whole book that's all you get: reactions, and no actions. There's no plot to speak of, and the writing, while getting the job done, has nothing memorable about it - no arresting imagery, no sparkling turns of phrase. Having said that, it does the job of getting under the skins of its various characters, and capturing their pain and anger, very well.
The main characters, a grieving wife, a mixed-up son, are far from original, but they are believable. And the struggles they face in coming to terms with the death, and surprising life, of their husband/father force one to consider the admirable determination some people have to live the life they want to live, no matter the consequences. (5/10)
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