Each chapter of The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas is from the point of view of one of the characters, which intensifies the novel as there are many conflicting memories, observations and opinions. I was disappointed that the story became progressively less about the slap and more about Hector's relationship with Connie, but it is worth still well worth a read. This is a very close knit group of friend's and family and this one act at a family barbeque throws everyone's relationships with each other into a spin.

The sign of a good book is not necessarily if you liked it, I think it is if a book generates discussion, provokes thought. That is what The Slap did for me. It seems from discussions with colleagues, friends and random people on public transport there are two camps when it comes to The Slap. Those that loved it and those that didnt; no luke warm feelings, no indifference, it is one or the other. For me, my feet are firmly in the camp that didnt like it. Was it because I thought the male characters were misogynistic and boorish? Was it because I thought the female characters were subservient, enabling their husbands/partners to be disrespectful and disinteresting. Or, was it because I felt cheated, ripped off; misled. This book is entitled The Slap. Is it not going to focus on the social dilemma of hitting another persons child; exploring what would drive someone to that point and examining the consequences of such an action? That was indeed my expectation, instead this scenario was merely used as a platform to look at the lives of middle class suburban Melbourne. However, whether you liked it or did not it is a wonderful topic for discussion, stirring up controversy, dividing the closest of friends and posing that question.what would you do if someone slapped your child?