Never too Late to Read Classics discussion

As I Lay Dying is a 1930 novel, in the genre of Southern Gothic by American author William Faulkner. It is the story of the death of Addie Bundren and her poor, rural family's quest and motivations—noble or selfish—to honor her wish to be buried in her hometown of Jefferson, Mississippi.

As the book opens, Addie is alive, though in ill health. Addie and others expect her to die soon, and she sits at a window watching as her firstborn, Cash, builds her coffin. Anse, Addie's husband, waits on the porch, while their daughter, Dewey Dell, fans her mother in the July heat. 261 pages

I have read about 20% of the book so far. The multiple narrators take a bit of getting used to, but I am slowly figuring them out.
I get the impression that Addie wore herself out with work and her husband was just the opposite.

I finished the book today and found it an interesting read. Faulkner's style takes some getting used to. I felt sorry for all the children but I really couldn't stand the father.

Oh dear!

I will be reading more Faulkner because he creates a very special atmosphere.
My daughter read this book for a university course and even wrote an essay on it. She really liked it. I mostly felt sorry for the children because Anse was such a terrible dad.

I have it in my TBR pile. Do not think I'm going to get to it this month, hopefully soon.

Just from the description about it alone seems like a very good read.

I'm glad you got the time to read it Rosemarie!

So am I. That was my first Faulkner and not my last.

Faulkner intimidates me. I think I may have started reading this book years ago but didn't finish because of the feelings it gave me. I have to be in the right mood for the Southern Gothic genre. I might start with a very short story!

Same with Flannery O'Connor - I still have some awful images in my head from reading her.

I so agree about Flannery O'Connor. She writes so well but her stories and images are intimidating, at least for me.