The start of the book was pretty tedious for me, partly because I can never believe that anyone remembers as much detail about their early childhood as McBride puts in, so it doesn't feel real. Also because it isn't pleasant to read about the guilt tripping, social rules, and such that pervade Irish Catholic society (or is it all Catholic societies?) Such an impoverished childhood--in friendship, in love, if not in money. The switch in her abilities, after her sister's death, is supposed to be significant of how tied she was to her, but just doesn't seem real that she could gain so much prowess as to win a prized position at school. Perhaps I'm not familiar enough in my own life with the results of such focused determination.
McBride belabors the importance of the symbolism water & air of her title. I don't interpret my life in terms of the nature of air & water, & I don't agree with her interpretation. It could be interesting, but it is so wrought with meaning. Here's an example: "Air blew things in and away and water exiled its creatures onto dry land and rushed away from them. It seemed the nature of water and air, to be random, heartless." (p.113)
There was 1 quote that I connect with: "'How little hold we have on things, Clodagh,' he said. 'How easily the world leaves us with nothing.'" Rather than see this as depressing or forlorn, as the character seems to, I see this as basic & a guide to travel thru life lightly, holding on to nothing for long.
2011 review ( )

Brilliantly written, but I felt like I needed a shower after reading this book! ( )

Author spends too much time trying to explain/build the relationship between the main character and her mother. As a result, the first half of the book really drags. ( )

I've never read anything by Regina McBride and I really enjoyed this book. It took a strange turn, but overall it was really good. ( )

In short, Regina McBride makes me ecstatic. Her writing is amazing; so tight, so clean, so lyrical. The Nature of Water and Air was the first book of hers that I read, and remains my favorite. McBride blends elements of Irish culture, sensuality, family relationships, and a bit of myth to craft a story that is dangerously close to perfect. The twist towards the end will shatter you. A truly wonderful read. ( )