Proof of my lack of literacy is that I've never read Jack Kerouac. That fact becomes relevant because Move Under Ground is written in a distinct style that can probably be best described as the author channeling Kerouac. Having said that, I did appreciate Move Under Ground, a novel which pits Kerouac, Cassady, and Burroughs against the Lovecraftian mythos. Mamatas combines the Beat era with a surreal Lovecraft and delivers a peculiar writing flavor not seen in other Lovecraft homages. If you're not used to the On the Road influence, the book doesn't make for comfortable reading. Another ingredient thrown into the mix is the author's choice of "nonfictional" characters and all three make for an interesting dynamic that gives the novel an extra dimension. Tone of voice and flat-out weird moments is the strength of Move Under Ground and worth checking out if the said elements appeals to you. Besides, Jack Kerouac is the last thing you'd expect to combine with Lovecraft!
Rating: 3/5.
Rating System:
1 - There are better ways to spend your time.
2 - Ho hum books, usually typical of its genre. Probably only recommendable to die-hard fans.
3 - A cut above the rest, usually with one or more elements that sets it apart from the norm.
4 - Highly recommended and is easily a pioneer of the genre.
5 - A classic or it will be.
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