The following review of  “Trainspotting” by Irvine Welsh was written by COHS student Nicole A.

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 348

This novel is the tale of a group of  Scottish heroin addicts, mainly a man named Renton. Similar to “Joy Luck Club,” Trainspotting weaves many stories loosely together to create a powerful story. Thought at times monotonous, the language and happenings of the story –ranging from the occasional bar fight to the urge for a good hit- really help to give the story character. It takes you down into the dark depths of withdrawl, to the point where you can almost feel your veins screaming.

Though difficult to get through because of the dialect, Trainspotting is worth the read. Give yourself time to read this one.

With Trainspotting, Welsh is attempting to present the problem of drug addiction; not only is it is widespread, it is treated as a trivial matter.

Welsh is simply saying that addiction can be overcome, even in the most serious cases, with time and effort.

Using vivid imagery and a powerful dose of the human element, Welsh presents the theme in a simple, captivating tale.

Trainspotting reminds us that such a serious matter as drug addiction is treated so simply in the world; instead of getting the attention and care it needs, it is swept under the rug.