Zbinden's Progress

In Simon's beautifully written novel, eighty-seven-year old Lukas Zbinden takes us on a journey. Not only down from the top floor to the ground floor of the retirement home where he is resident, but also on a journey through his own life.

On this step-by-step descent, accompanied by his silent carer, Kazim, we discover walking has always been crucial to Lukas, his reason for being. It is only through walking that a person can manage to escape from a jaded life. For this reason, Lukas has ignored the convenience of the retirement home's lift as he tells his tale.

It is through his walk - both literal and metaphorical - that we encounter the many quirky characters occupying the retirement home each with their own heart-felt, idiosyncratic stories to tell. But on the wider journey, we also learn the ups and downs of Lukas's joyous marriage to the wonderful Emilie, the difficulties he has always had communicating with his son, the skills and craft necessary to enjoy a good walk. 

For an author of just forty years of age, Simon's novel shows remarkable insight, wisdom, humour and understanding of the human condition, especially the lives of the elderly. When one finishes this book, it is hard not to want to pick up the phone immediately to speak to an aged loved one.