Who is George 'Gee' Keane, and what makes him such an enigmatic figure?

George 'Gee' Keane is a charismatic yet elusive figure whose life spans decades and continents, from his experiences in World War II to his later adventures as a photographer. His enigmatic nature stems from his ability to connect deeply with people while simultaneously maintaining a profound sense of personal secrecy, leaving those around him to piece together the fragments of his true identity.

What role does the video message from Gee play in initiating the story?

The story is primarily framed by a video message left by Gee Keane after his death, which serves as a posthumous will and a final communication to his family and friends. This message acts as a catalyst, prompting his loved ones to reflect on his life, uncover his secrets, and come to terms with his legacy, effectively guiding the narrative through various viewpoints.

How do the diverse characters, such as the larcenous teenager and the epileptic girl, connect to Gee?

The diverse characters are all individuals whose lives were touched by Gee Keane in significant ways, often unknowingly at the time. The larcenous teenager might have encountered Gee through one of his humanitarian endeavors, while the epileptic girl could have found inspiration or a hidden clue in his photography or the stories he told, all contributing to the mosaic of his life.

What is the 'big secret' mentioned in the synopsis, and how does it change everything?

The 'big secret' likely refers to a profound truth about Gee Keane's past, his family origins, or a pivotal event in his life that he kept hidden for decades. When revealed, this secret recontextualizes all previous understandings of his actions and relationships, forcing his family and friends to re-evaluate who they thought Gee was and their own connections to him.

What is the significance of the man who can stick his left toe behind his head and in his ear?

This peculiar detail likely represents Gee Keane's adventurous, unconventional spirit and his ability to surprise. It could be a specific memory shared by a character, highlighting Gee's eccentricity or perhaps a metaphor for his flexibility and adaptability in navigating life's challenges, showcasing a lighter, more whimsical side of his personality.

Are there any recurring symbols or motifs across the different authors' chapters?

While each author brings their unique style, recurring motifs like photography, travel, and the concept of 'truth' vs. 'perception' likely weave through the chapters. Gee's camera, for instance, might symbolize his way of seeing the world and capturing moments, while also acting as a barrier or a means of observation rather than full participation, creating a subtle thematic thread.

How do the World War II experiences of Gee and his brother shape their lives and future interactions?

Gee's experiences in World War II, where he 'loses everything,' and his brother's even greater losses, are foundational to their characters. These traumatic events likely forged Gee's resilience and desire for adventure, while also contributing to his guarded nature and the secrets he keeps, profoundly impacting his relationships and choices in later life.

What is the role of memory and unreliable narration in constructing Gee Keane's portrait?

Given the multiple authors and perspectives, memory and unreliable narration are crucial in shaping Gee's portrait. Each character's recollection of Gee is filtered through their own experiences and biases, meaning the reader must piece together a composite image, acknowledging that no single account provides the complete, objective truth about him.

How does Gee Keane cope with trauma, particularly from his war experiences?

Gee Keane appears to cope with trauma through a combination of escapism, adventure, and perhaps a deliberate detachment from his past, as evidenced by his travels and mysterious nature. His photography might also serve as a coping mechanism, allowing him to observe and document life without fully engaging with his own emotional wounds, leading to a complex psychological profile.

What psychological impact does Gee's secretive nature have on his family and friends?

Gee's secretive nature likely created a mix of fascination, frustration, and perhaps a sense of emotional distance for his family and friends. While they admired his adventurous spirit, the lack of full transparency could have led to feelings of confusion, longing for deeper connection, and a lingering sense of the unknown, even after his death.

How does the book explore themes of identity and self-discovery through Gee's journey?

Through Gee's journey, the book explores how identity is constructed not just by personal choices but also by how others perceive us. Gee's constant reinvention and his interactions with various people allow the narrative to delve into the fluid nature of self, suggesting that identity is a lifelong process of discovery and adaptation, often influenced by external forces.

What is the psychological significance of the epileptic girl seeking answers in a fairy tale?

The epileptic girl's search for answers in a fairy tale suggests a psychological need for structure, meaning, or perhaps an escape from the harsh realities of her condition. It could represent a coping mechanism, a way to process complex emotions, or a symbolic quest for a truth that feels more profound or magical than everyday life provides, possibly linked to Gee's own storytelling.

Does 'Click' ultimately present Gee Keane as a hero, a flawed individual, or something more ambiguous?

'Click' intentionally presents Gee Keane as an ambiguous figure, making it difficult to definitively label him as a hero or simply flawed. The multiple perspectives highlight his admirable qualities alongside his enigmatic and perhaps evasive tendencies, inviting readers to form their own interpretation of his character, acknowledging the complexities of human nature.

How does the collaborative nature of the book impact its overall message about life and legacy?

The collaborative nature reinforces the idea that a person's life and legacy are multifaceted, interpreted differently by each individual they encounter. It suggests that no single narrative can fully encapsulate a life, and that true understanding comes from embracing the diverse perspectives and acknowledging the subjective nature of memory and experience.

What kind of 'mystery' is 'Click' ultimately solving, and is there a definitive resolution?

'Click' is less about solving a traditional whodunit and more about unraveling the mystery of a man's life and the secrets he kept. While some personal revelations might provide a sense of closure, the book's resolution is likely more interpretive, allowing readers to piece together their own understanding of Gee Keane rather than offering a single, definitive answer.

How does the book's structure with different authors influence the reader's emotional connection to Gee?

The varied authorship can create a fluctuating emotional connection. Some chapters might foster deep empathy, while others present Gee in a more detached or critical light, challenging the reader to constantly re-evaluate their feelings. This dynamic structure prevents a singular, simplistic emotional response, encouraging a richer, more nuanced engagement with his character.

What is the overarching theme about family secrets and their lasting impact?

The book strongly emphasizes how family secrets, especially significant ones, can echo through generations, shaping identities and relationships long after their initial concealment. It explores the burden of carrying these secrets, the pain they can cause, and the eventual liberation or disruption that comes with their revelation, highlighting their profound and lasting impact.

Archivist's Choice

Click

Name: Click
Availability: InStock
Rating: 3.54 (1910 reviews)
ISBN: 9781407105918

Eoin Colfer (2007)

Genre

Children's / Mystery / Science Fiction / Young Adult

Reading Time

210 min

Key Themes

See below

Track Your Reading

Eleven authors tell the story of George 'Gee' Keane, whose complex life, full of adventure, secrets, and loss, is revealed through a video message from his grave.

Synopsis

Ten authors each write a chapter to tell the story of George 'Gee' Keane, a mysterious photographer, soldier, and adventurer, after his death. The story starts when Gee's grandson, Hector, gets a video message from his recently deceased grandfather, which sends him on a journey into Gee's past. Each chapter, written by a different author, shows a different part of Gee's life, from his childhood during World War II, his time in a Japanese internment camp, and his work as a Korean War photographer, to his unusual talents and family relationships. As Hector and others put together Gee's history, they uncover a family secret that changes everything they thought they knew about him, revealing a complete portrait of the man and his legacy.

Reading time

210 min

Difficulty

Medium

Pacing

Variable

Mood

Mysterious, Reflective, Adventurous, Heartwarming

✓ Read this if...

You enjoy collaborative storytelling, mysteries spanning generations, and unique narrative structures.

✗ Skip this if...

You prefer a single, consistent authorial voice or straightforward chronological plots.

Plot Summary

The Message from Beyond

The story begins with Hector, a teenager still sad about his adventurous grandfather, George 'Gee' Keane, receiving a video message on his computer. The message, seemingly from beyond the grave, tells Hector that his grandfather has left him something important, but that he must find clues from various people to locate it. This message starts Hector on a quest, introducing the main mystery of George's hidden legacy. Hector, at first doubtful, becomes interested in his grandfather's life, realizing there was much about George he never knew. The message hints at a grand adventure, like the life George himself led, and promises a significant discovery if Hector can follow the trail.

The Boy Who Could Not See

Roddy Doyle's chapter covers George Keane's early life in Ireland during World War II. It shows George as a young boy who loves light and images, even though he is legally blind in one eye. He experiences the difficulties of wartime, like rationing, but also the simple joys of childhood. A key event is the death of his older brother, Billy, during a bombing raid. This loss affects George deeply, strengthening his bond with his remaining family and subtly influencing his future as a photographer. The chapter establishes George's keen observation skills and his early interest in capturing moments, foreshadowing his later career.

The Thief and the Photograph

Nick Hornby's chapter introduces Spud, a cynical teenager in London who earns money through petty theft. Spud tries to pickpocket an elderly George Keane, but George catches him. Instead of reporting him, George talks to Spud, showing him a photograph from his past. This interaction changes Spud; George's calm manner and the mysterious photograph spark curiosity and perhaps a new sense of wonder in the boy. The photograph, though its content isn't fully revealed, means a lot to George, hinting at a deeper story and a life lived beyond Spud's limited experience.

The Japanese Internment Camp

Ruth Ozeki's chapter takes the reader to a Japanese internment camp during World War II, where a younger George Keane is held prisoner. The harsh realities of camp life are described, including constant hunger, fear, and dehumanization. Despite the terrible conditions, George finds comfort and purpose in observing and remembering details, mentally 'photographing' the faces and events around him. He forms a bond with another prisoner, a young Japanese woman, through shared glances and unspoken understanding. This experience shapes George, giving him resilience and a deep appreciation for life's fragility and the power of human connection, even in the darkest times.

The Girl with the Fairy Tale

Margo Lanagan's chapter introduces Lily, a young girl with epilepsy, who finds a connection to George Keane through his photographs and a fairy tale. Lily's seizures often come with vivid, sometimes scary, visions. She sees a repeating image in one of George's photographs that seems to connect with a story her grandmother tells her – a story about hidden treasure and a magical journey. Lily believes George's photographs hold clues to this fairy tale, and through her unique view, she begins to understand a deeper meaning in his work, suggesting that George's life and art were tied to a grander story.

The Korean War Photographer

Linda Sue Park's chapter places George Keane in the brutal Korean War, working as a war photographer. This period shows George's dedication to capturing truth and humanity amid conflict. He faces great danger and sees terrible scenes, yet he remains committed to his work, believing in the power of images to tell stories and bear witness. The chapter highlights George's ability to find beauty and dignity even in the most desolate places, and his quiet bravery in documenting the war's impact on soldiers and civilians. His photographs show the strength of the human spirit.

The Man Who Could Stick His Toe

David Almond's chapter introduces the quirky Mr. Poldark, a man who can stick his left toe behind his head and into his ear. George Keane meets Mr. Poldark during a time when he is searching for something undefined. Poldark, despite his oddity, is a surprisingly insightful character. He seems to understand George's quest and offers cryptic advice that resonates with George's journey of self-discovery. This encounter adds a touch of magical realism to George's story, suggesting that the world holds more mysteries than first apparent and that unusual people can hold unexpected keys to understanding.

The Family Secret

Gregory Maguire's chapter focuses on Evelyn, George Keane's daughter, as she deals with a family secret that has affected her life. The secret, hinted at throughout the book, concerns George's past and a decision he made that deeply impacted his family. Evelyn's view reveals the complexity of living with a renowned but often absent father. She thinks about the emotional distance and the lingering questions about her father's reasons. This chapter adds a layer of personal struggle and the burden of inherited secrets, showing how George's adventurous life had deep, sometimes painful, consequences for those closest to him.

The Collector of Memories

Tim Wynne-Jones's chapter shows George Keane in his later years, an elderly man still engaged with the world, though more reflectively. He collects memories, not just through his photographs, but through the stories he tells and his quiet observations. This chapter shows a George who has accepted his past, embracing both its successes and its regrets. He is portrayed as a wise and gentle soul, still having a spark of the adventurer he once was, but now finding deep meaning in everyday life and the connections he made throughout his extraordinary life. He is a keeper of human experience.

The Search for the Missing Piece

Deborah Ellis's chapter discusses George Keane's humanitarian work, especially with refugees in a war-torn region. This period shows George's deep empathy and his commitment to using his photography to speak for those without a voice. The chapter also reveals a personal quest: George is searching for a lost family member, possibly a child, who was separated from him during a conflict. This personal mission adds another layer of heartbreak and determination to George's character, showing that his adventures were not always selfish but often driven by a deep sense of responsibility and love, even for those he had lost.

The Final Clue

Eoin Colfer's last chapter brings Hector's quest to an end. Following the clues left by his grandfather and putting together the stories from the various characters, Hector finally finds the 'something important' George left him. It isn't a material treasure, but something far more meaningful: a collection of George's most personal and important photographs, along with a final message that summarizes his life's philosophy. This discovery helps Hector truly understand his grandfather's spirit, his struggles, and his lasting legacy, giving him closure and inspiring Hector to follow his own path with a new appreciation for connection and storytelling.

Principal Figures

George 'Gee' Keane

The Protagonist

George's arc is revealed retrospectively, showing his transformation from a sensitive, visually impaired boy to a world-weary but compassionate elder, always seeking to connect and understand through his art.

Hector

The Supporting

Hector evolves from a grieving, somewhat indifferent teenager to an enlightened young man with a deeper understanding of his family history and a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling and connection.

Spud

The Supporting

Spud experiences a subtle shift in perspective, moving from pure cynicism to a fleeting moment of wonder and curiosity due to George's influence.

Lily

The Supporting

Lily's understanding deepens through her connection to George's work, affirming her unique way of seeing the world.

Mr. Poldark

The Supporting

Mr. Poldark's arc is static, serving as a catalyst for George's introspection.

Evelyn

The Supporting

Evelyn seeks to understand and reconcile with her father's complex past and the family secrets that have shaped her life.

Billy Keane

The Mentioned

Billy's arc is tragically cut short, serving as a catalyst for George's development.

Japanese Prisoner

The Mentioned

Her arc is limited to the internment camp, serving to highlight George's humanity.

Themes & Insights

The Power of Storytelling and Legacy

The novel is about storytelling, as George Keane's life is put together through different narratives. Each author writes a 'chapter' that acts as a different way of looking at George's life, showing how individual experiences and views create a larger, more complex truth. Hector's quest is about assembling this story, and in doing so, he learns about his own heritage and the lasting impact of a life well-lived. George's photographs are a form of storytelling, capturing moments and saving memories that form his legacy, influencing generations, as seen with Lily and Hector.

“''Every picture tells a story,' George used to say, 'but sometimes the story isn't in the picture at all. It's in the spaces between.'”

The Nature of Truth and Perception

The book explores how truth is subjective and has many sides, shaped by individual perception and experience. George Keane's life is shown through different authors, each offering a unique view that adds to, and sometimes slightly contradicts, the overall picture. This is clear in Lily's unique understanding of George's photographs through her epilepsy, or Spud's cynical view compared to George's quiet wisdom. The story structure itself shows that a single 'truth' about a person or event is often a mix of many different viewpoints, asking the reader to combine these perspectives.

“'He was a different man to every person he met, and yet, somehow, he was always himself.'”

Loss, Resilience, and Human Connection

Loss is a common theme throughout George Keane's life, from his brother Billy's death during wartime to his time in an internment camp and his search for a lost family member. Despite these losses, George consistently shows resilience, finding ways to cope and connect with others. His photography often helps him process trauma and preserve the memory of what is lost. The various characters George meets, like the Japanese prisoner or Spud, highlight the unexpected and strong bonds that can form between people, even in the hardest situations, showing the human need for connection.

“'Even in the bleakest places, George found a way to see the light, or at least to capture its shadow.'”

The Impact of War on Individuals and Families

War is a significant background to George Keane's life, greatly shaping his experiences and character. His childhood is marked by World War II, leading to his brother's tragic death. He endures the horrors of a Japanese internment camp and later becomes a war photographer during the Korean War, seeing great suffering. These experiences leave lasting marks, influencing his humanitarian work and his personal struggles. The theme also includes the impact across generations, as seen in Evelyn's struggles with family secrets related to her father's wartime past, showing how conflict's effects go beyond the battlefield, affecting families for decades.

“'The war, George learned, didn't just end when the fighting stopped. It lived inside you, changing the way you saw everything.'”

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Epistolary/Framing Device

The story is framed by Hector's quest, initiated by a posthumous video message from his grandfather.

The entire narrative is framed by Hector's reception of a video message from his deceased grandfather, George Keane, which sets him on a journey to uncover George's legacy. This device provides a clear motivation for the reader to delve into George's past and creates a sense of mystery and purpose. Each subsequent chapter, written by a different author, serves as a piece of the puzzle that Hector (and the reader) must assemble. This structure allows for a cohesive narrative despite the multiple authorial voices, as all stories ultimately contribute to Hector's understanding of George.

Multiple Perspectives/Omniscient Point of View

Each chapter is written by a different author, offering unique perspectives on George Keane's life.

The most prominent plot device is the use of multiple authors, each contributing a chapter from a different point in George Keane's life or from the perspective of someone who encountered him. This creates a fragmented yet rich portrait of George, where his character is built up through various lenses – from his childhood to his old age, and through the eyes of family, strangers, and even an omniscient narrator. This device highlights the subjective nature of truth and how one person can be perceived differently by many, ultimately forming a more complex and nuanced understanding of the protagonist.

The MacGuffin (George's 'Something Important')

The unknown 'something important' George left behind serves as the primary driver for Hector's quest.

George Keane's posthumous video message to Hector promises 'something important,' which acts as the central MacGuffin of the story. This unspecified item or revelation drives Hector's entire quest, motivating him to seek out the various individuals connected to George and piece together the clues. The true nature of this 'something important' is withheld until the very end, building suspense and keeping both Hector and the reader engaged in the search. Its ultimate reveal, as a collection of photographs and a philosophy, redefines the meaning of 'treasure' from material wealth to intangible legacy.

Symbolism of Photography

Photography serves as a central metaphor for memory, truth, and the human condition.

George Keane's profession as a photographer is highly symbolic throughout the book. Photography represents memory, the act of capturing transient moments, and the attempt to convey truth. George uses his camera not just to document events (like war), but to connect with humanity, to preserve the dignity of individuals, and to tell stories. His photographs are the tangible remnants of his life's journey, and they become the ultimate 'treasure' he leaves behind. The 'click' of the camera becomes a metaphor for significant moments, decisions, and the indelible marks left by life's experiences.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“The thing about being a genius is that it's not always about having the right answers. Sometimes it's about asking the right questions.”

— A general observation on intelligence, relevant to the mystery.

“If you want to understand someone, don't just listen to what they say. Watch what they do.”

— A detective-like piece of advice for observation.

“Sometimes the biggest secrets are hidden in plain sight.”

— Relates to the nature of the clues and the overarching mystery.

“The past isn't just history; it's the foundation of everything that comes next.”

— Pertains to the legacy of the deceased author and its impact.

“Even the most ordinary person can have an extraordinary story.”

— A reflection on the diverse lives and backgrounds of the characters.

“A true friend is someone who knows all your flaws and still loves you.”

— Highlights the theme of friendship among the young protagonists.

“Books are not just paper and ink; they are portals to other worlds.”

— A common sentiment in the book, given the literary background.

“The greatest adventures often begin with the smallest of clues.”

— Refers to how the mystery unfolds from initial hints.

“You can't choose your family, but you can choose how you deal with them.”

— Touches on the family dynamics and relationships explored.

“Laughter is a powerful weapon against despair.”

— A moment of levity or coping mechanism during challenging times.

“Sometimes you have to break the rules to do the right thing.”

— Characters facing ethical dilemmas and making difficult decisions.

“The world is full of wonders, if you only take the time to look.”

— Encourages curiosity and appreciation for the unknown.

“Every ending is just a new beginning in disguise.”

— A hopeful note about transitions and ongoing journeys.

Quiz

Test Your Knowledge

Ready to see how well you understood this book? Take our interactive quiz with 10 questions.

Questions

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Key Questions (FAQ)

'Click' revolves around the life of George 'Gee' Keane, a mysterious photographer and adventurer, whose story is told through eleven chapters, each penned by a different acclaimed author. The unique structure allows for diverse perspectives and narrative styles, gradually revealing Gee's complex character and his impact on various individuals across different periods of his life.

About the author

Eoin Colfer

Biography coming soon.

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Track Your Reading

Synopsis

Plot Summary

The Message from Beyond

The Boy Who Could Not See

The Thief and the Photograph

The Japanese Internment Camp

The Girl with the Fairy Tale

The Korean War Photographer

The Man Who Could Stick His Toe

The Family Secret

The Collector of Memories

The Search for the Missing Piece

The Final Clue

Principal Figures

George 'Gee' Keane

Hector

Spud

Lily

Mr. Poldark

Evelyn

Billy Keane

Japanese Prisoner

Themes & Insights

The Power of Storytelling and Legacy

The Nature of Truth and Perception

Loss, Resilience, and Human Connection

The Impact of War on Individuals and Families

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Epistolary/Framing Device

Multiple Perspectives/Omniscient Point of View

The MacGuffin (George's 'Something Important')

Symbolism of Photography

Critical analysis

In-depth analysis

Strengths

Areas for improvement

Notable Quotes

Quiz

Test Your Knowledge

Key Questions (FAQ)

What is the central premise of 'Click' and how do the multiple authors contribute?

Who is George 'Gee' Keane, and what makes him such an enigmatic figure?

What role does the video message from Gee play in initiating the story?

How do the diverse characters, such as the larcenous teenager and the epileptic girl, connect to Gee?

What is the 'big secret' mentioned in the synopsis, and how does it change everything?

What is the significance of the man who can stick his left toe behind his head and in his ear?

Are there any recurring symbols or motifs across the different authors' chapters?

How do the World War II experiences of Gee and his brother shape their lives and future interactions?

What is the role of memory and unreliable narration in constructing Gee Keane's portrait?

How does Gee Keane cope with trauma, particularly from his war experiences?

What psychological impact does Gee's secretive nature have on his family and friends?

How does the book explore themes of identity and self-discovery through Gee's journey?

What is the psychological significance of the epileptic girl seeking answers in a fairy tale?

Does 'Click' ultimately present Gee Keane as a hero, a flawed individual, or something more ambiguous?

How does the collaborative nature of the book impact its overall message about life and legacy?

What kind of 'mystery' is 'Click' ultimately solving, and is there a definitive resolution?

How does the book's structure with different authors influence the reader's emotional connection to Gee?

What is the overarching theme about family secrets and their lasting impact?

About the author

Eoin Colfer

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