I read what I thought was Max Barry’s first novel Company last year, and was invited to attend the launch of what I thought was his follow up Syrup. Reading the blurb on the back I was perplexed to read a reference to ‘debut’ novel. As it turns out, Barry’s second novel Company was launched in Australia before his first novel. Something about struggling to find a local publisher lead Barry o/s and now the rights have been secured for the book to be distributed here.
It follows the adventures of Scat and 6, both marketing professionals who get screwed by the corporate world and somehow claw their way back. With some personal experience in the marketing field, I found myself chuckling quite a bit.
The piss-taking of the marketing discipline and insane corporate politics are all through this story, which is an uproarious read. If you have ever worked in corporate marketing I think you will find reflections of people you have known. Characters are not so believable, but I think that’s Barry’s strength in storytelling. Everything is far fetched, but somehow itches reality. Syrup is written in a style which is short and punchy; easy to read.
I thought this one was a total hoot.
Posted by yappingdog 