Review: The Woman Who Wouldn't

The Woman Who Wouldn't
by Gene Wilder

Set in 1903, concert violinist Jeremy Webb has a nervous breakdown while performing with the Cleveland Orchestra. While recovering in Germany he meets Clara Mulpas, a very sick woman of whom he begins to have feelings for. But what is wrong with Jeremy? And what does he really feel for Clara?

This little novella is written in a minimalist style, very sparse, very direct. It deals with a serious topic in a light and playful manner. It does not involve too many emotions beyond curiosity which works surprisingly well. It's exactly the type of book I would expect from Gene Wilder.