Paperback, 288 pages
Published Nov. 6, 2006 by Penguin.
For the film of the same name, see A Long Way Down (film). Not to be confused with the Charlie Boorman series Long Way Down.A Long Way Down is a novel written by British author Nick Hornby, published in 2005. It is a dark comedy, playing off the themes of suicide, angst, depression and promiscuity. The story is written in the first-person narrative from the points of view of the four main characters, Martin, Maureen, Jess and JJ. These four strangers happen to meet on the roof of a high building called Toppers' House in London on New Year's Eve, each with the intent of committing suicide. Their plans for death in solitude are ruined when they meet. The novel recounts their misadventures as they decide to come down from the roof alive – however temporarily that may be.
The whole thing is a bit ridiculous isn't it (why do they let these people on the roof anyway?!), but it's a fun, quick read, with enough twists and turns to keep anyone semi-interested. Good pool or plane read. Great free read
A bit slow, but Hornby's books always make me laugh aloud.
Very moving, funny and engaging
