May 17, 2010 11:01 PM
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If Quentin Tarantino wrote a book, this would probably be it.
Pop-splat is a South African thriller/social satire that follows the short and troubled life of antihero Matt Dreyer, a young man who becomes deeply upset by the suspicious murder of his father Bruce in a Johannesburg hijacking. Young Matt is launched into the search for justice - a reckless, crazy and shocking ride through South Africa and its twisted landscape of crime, violence, social injustice and greed. A ride that ends in an explosive bloodbath that would make Tarantino blush.
Unlike most page-turners there is also substance behind a lot of the murder and mayhem and Pop-splat deals with a lot of thought-provoking contemporary issues that people all over the world, not just in South Africa, can relate to.
This book is not for everyone. If you're sensitive or easily offended then you best stay away, because Pop-splat satirises every aspect of the world we live in, from corrupt politicians to crazy Bible thumpers to SUV drivers. For example, Martin attacks snobbish art connoisseurs, calling a Madonna and Child painting'Prostitute with baboon fetus.'
In short, Ian Martin's third novel is a highly entertaining thriller that deftly blends crime and violence together with satire and social commentary. A refreshing must-read for anyone brave enough to have their emotions and their intellect thoroughly stimulated. The first chapter, excerpts and reviews are available at pop-splat.co.za
