An overlooked classic

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February 4, 2013 • Ashley Loza, Staff Writer
Filed under Arts & Entertainment

An Academy Award nominated movie and A Man Booker Prize for Fiction winning novel, Life of Pi should seem like a no-brainer to see or read however, only a small percent of San Dimas High School students have taken the time to experience Yann Martel’s work.

“I loved the uniqueness of the novel. The adventure felt like some sort of twisted dream,” senior Andrew Pastor said.

Initially set in Pondicherry, India, the main character Piscine “Pi” Patel and his family zoo are moved to Canada, but the trip takes a turn for the worst when Pi is found on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger, a hyena, an orangutan, and a zebra. Life of Pi is an emotional and dramatic story that leaves the reader contemplating Pi’s unbelievable struggles long after the novel ends.

“I think the interesting part is the religious parts. Seems to incorporate many religions and make it streamlined. Many religions are very viable to his character. Highly recommend it, the ending is very unusual,” said English teacher Terry Casey.

The story gives a new perspective on religion that seems very unusual to modern ideas. Written in first person, the reader is able to step into Pi’s shows and connect with the ray of emotions Pi experiences.

When people usually read a book and then follow with the movie, the movie will not seem to measure up to the novel. On the contrary, Life of Pi exhibits that not all plots need to completely be changed in order for the public to be pleased. The minor plot cuts that were made were for the rating to remain “PG-13;” some parts of the novel were too grotesque to not escalate the rating to “R.”

Not only was the novel a big hit around the world, but it was nominated for eleven Academy Awards including Best Picture. When asked, students of San Dimas will most likely say that they have seen The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, yet when asked if they have seen Life of Pi, they say no. It is hard to believe that such a great novel and movie has gone unnoticed in the eyes of teenagers.

“I found it amazing that a boy and a tiger could kind of live in harmony. His perseverance and will to live was inspiring. I would recommend the book to anyone. Classic,” senior Aaron Borunda said.

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