A debut novel, Towles's Rules of Civility is filled with sparkling prose, deftly unwound twists and turns, and a Fitzgerald-esque sophistication. The...moreA debut novel, Towles's Rules of Civility is filled with sparkling prose, deftly unwound twists and turns, and a Fitzgerald-esque sophistication. The backdrop of 1930s New York City buzzes with life, from skyline view penthouses to back alley entrance clubs to lavish parties in the Hamptons to offices filled with the click-clacking sound of busy typewriters. The main character of Katey Kontent (a perfect role for Katharine Hepburn) is absolutely fabulous and ever so easy to love, and the uniquely voiced cast of characters surrounding her is expertly woven with the overindulgent well-to-do, the nothing-from-here-but-up dream seekers, and the hard-minded hard working. Rules of Civility is sharp and smart, giving you plenty to think about it, but leaving you fantastically entertained.(less)
A controversial novel, The Awakening by Kate Chopin is one of the all-time best discussion books you could ever read. A classic in women's literature,...moreA controversial novel, The Awakening by Kate Chopin is one of the all-time best discussion books you could ever read. A classic in women's literature, Chopin delves deep into the psyche of Edna Pontellier, a woman trapped by the societal shackles of the turn-of-the-century South. As such, it is vitally important to read The Awakening from the point of view of a woman in 1899 whose status in society and freedom in general is vastly different than that of women today. While the plot may not be a complete page-turner, Chopin's writing is fantastic. There are dozens of phrases, sentences, and even paragraphs that would make any reader stop and pause (and highlight), because of their beauty and poignancy. Filled with sharp social commentary and deep psychological insight, The Awakening is no doubt an excellent example of feminist fiction, whether or not you ultimately agree with what Chopin has to say.(less)
One word comes immediately to my mind when pondering The Secret Garden: charming. A lovely story about the joy of childhood and the preciousness of li...moreOne word comes immediately to my mind when pondering The Secret Garden: charming. A lovely story about the joy of childhood and the preciousness of life, The Secret Garden is every little girl's dream book. Filled with mystery and adventure, wild creatures and even wilder children, pretty dresses and beautiful flowers, this charming story is sure to delight.(less)
I was concerned with how Collins would end this series, but I had no need to be. The pace of Mockingjay does slow a bit at times and there is a little...moreI was concerned with how Collins would end this series, but I had no need to be. The pace of Mockingjay does slow a bit at times and there is a little less creativity, but there is a greater emphasis on character. We get a closer look into many of the secondhand characters, making the series less about Katniss and more about the effect violence has on the human soul - and our propensity to surrender to it. The book ends just as it should with a happy yet contemplative tone, making The Hunger Games an entertaining, satisfying, and meaningful series.(less)
Catching Fire is a great sequel to The Hunger Games. The action continues to move at a good pace, the characters stay true to who they were in Book 1,...moreCatching Fire is a great sequel to The Hunger Games. The action continues to move at a good pace, the characters stay true to who they were in Book 1, the plot has good twists and turns, and the end leaves you wanting even more. I think Collins does an especially good job getting into the mind of a teenage girl: so intelligent at times that you want to be her, and so unbelievably clueless at other times that you want to hit her. All I can hope is that she doesn't ruin it with the final book in the series - please end it well, I'm begging you!(less)
Part romance, part social commentary, North and South is an underestimated classic. Gaskell does a remarkable job bringing to life the scenery and peo...morePart romance, part social commentary, North and South is an underestimated classic. Gaskell does a remarkable job bringing to life the scenery and people of two distinct cultures in England. She effortlessly contrasts the easy lull of the Southern country with the bustling hum of the Northern industry, bringing out the positives and negatives of each with her sincere characters. Each character has real-life problems, emotions, motivations, and reactions. But, without a doubt, the heart of the novel is the twist-and-turn romance between Margaret Hale and John Thornton. Their story is utterly page-turning, and Thornton is a character as worthy of the title "leading man" as any Darcy or Rochester. Unfortunately, Gaskell totally flubs the ending, leaving the reader wondering if a page or two has been accidentally cut from their copy. But with such well-developed characters and a love story as engrossing as that of Darcy and Elizabeth, North and South is an absolute must read.(less)
I was so wonderfully surprised by The Hunger Games. Collins is incredibly smart with her writing, tossing in a little something for everyone: politics...moreI was so wonderfully surprised by The Hunger Games. Collins is incredibly smart with her writing, tossing in a little something for everyone: politics, fashion, hunting, romance. It is immediately entertaining, has an absolutely kick-a** female lead, the pace never slows, the characters are vibrant and exciting, and the end leaves you wanting more. If you are looking for a quick read that will whisk you away, The Hunger Games is your book.(less)
Fry up some chicken, cook up some grits, pour a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, and get ready to enjoy a good meal of book with The Help. Stockett ef...moreFry up some chicken, cook up some grits, pour a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, and get ready to enjoy a good meal of book with The Help. Stockett effortlessly weaves a fun, sassy, poignant, and meaningful story through the Southern voices of her three main characters. Each character is distinct and rich, bringing her own style and feel to the page. The supporting cast is no less brilliant, featuring characters tender, vicious, spineless, heroic, and tacky (but loveable). The South itself is also brilliantly portrayed, allowing you to see its beauty, feel its face-melting heat, enjoy its generous hospitality, and witness its back-handed genteelness. The plot rolls forward quickly with all of the best book elements (love, violence, humor, suspense), but what makes The Help most successful is that it is about something. While overtly tackling the subject of race relations, The Help is much more than skin deep, delicately looking at all of the many things that "separate" us from one another. So grab yourself some nice home cookin', pull up a chair, open up The Help, and enjoy the feast. Just one hint: keep away from the chocolate pie...(less)
This book amazed me. As I started to read, I had no idea what was going on, but I was totally enthralled by the characters, the mystery, and Atwood's...moreThis book amazed me. As I started to read, I had no idea what was going on, but I was totally enthralled by the characters, the mystery, and Atwood's gorgeous writing style. As the pieces started coming together, I found the book filled with so many provoking questions and commentaries regarding gender, relationships, religion, freedom, identity, and so much more. I still reflect on it often, asking myself about and looking deeper into the issues raised...and what better review could I give for a book than that.(less)
I am not a sci-fi or horror fiction reader, but if all such books were as frighteningly good as Dracula, I would become one in a heartbeat. Bram Stoke...moreI am not a sci-fi or horror fiction reader, but if all such books were as frighteningly good as Dracula, I would become one in a heartbeat. Bram Stoker wastes no time throwing the reader into the nightmare-inducing world of Count Dracula, immediately creating mystery and expertly developing nail-biting suspense. The characters are also expertly crafted: the characters of the non-UnDead being wonderfully endearing, and the characters of the gruesome UnDead being wonderfully horrifying. Though written in a series of diary entries, letters, telegrams, and newspaper clippings, Stoker seamlessly jumps from the voice of one character to the next, never losing momentum or allowing the reader to relax for too long. A true horror novel, the pages of Dracula are so filled with haunting images, dark occurrences, and sinister presences, you will no doubt find yourself jumping at the howl of every dog, shuddering at the sound of wind rattling your window, and checking over your shoulder for a ghostly pale face and glowing red eyes.(less)
Little Women is a darling little book about a wonderful little family that will warm your little heart to the core. I love the way Alcott characterize...moreLittle Women is a darling little book about a wonderful little family that will warm your little heart to the core. I love the way Alcott characterizes these four distinct little personalities and the way they naturally grow and mature as they respond to life's little trials and triumphs. Though the plot moves forward a little slowly at first, it soon picks up and becomes more than a little engaging. And the book has so many little lessons about morals, family, love and friendship, but stops just short of becoming preachy with little self-deprecating asides from the narrator. Sometimes all you need is a classically good little novel, and Little Women is just that.(less)
I currently have a bit of an obsession with World War II literature; the bad thing about that being I usually end up reading seriously depressing book...moreI currently have a bit of an obsession with World War II literature; the bad thing about that being I usually end up reading seriously depressing books. What a relief then to read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. The novel is told through a series of letters, each writer having their own style and personality shine through their words. The characters are so lively and charming, I wish they were real so I could go to Guernsey and meet them all. And the story, while dealing with real issues of how people survived the war and rebuilt their lives after its end, is truly a delight to read. I did cry a few times, but I laughed so many more. Just be careful, by the time you're done you are totally going to want to find a penpal!(less)
I have seen the movie version of Emma too many times to truly appreciate the reading experience of Emma, but I think this novel would be a favorite ha...moreI have seen the movie version of Emma too many times to truly appreciate the reading experience of Emma, but I think this novel would be a favorite had I gone into it with no clue of its contents. I love the character of Emma; she is seriously flawed through most of the novel to the point of my disliking her. But then her reform is so drastic and sincere that she becomes a truly endearing character. In fact, the complete cast of characters is so delightfully varied and wonderfully developed, I consistently found myself chuckling and sighing and rolling my eyes at their conduct. And of course, you can't have a Jane Austen novel without a wonderful love story. But unlike Austen's other novels, the love story plays a minor role in comparison to the lessons Emma learns. Don't get me wrong, my heart is still aflutter from Mr. Knightley's adorably clumsy declaration to Emma, but the true essence of the novel is Emma herself - a fantastically flawed heroine.(less)
I had heard Northanger Abbey was a bit different from Austen's other novels, and it definitely is so. She wrote it before her other published novels,...moreI had heard Northanger Abbey was a bit different from Austen's other novels, and it definitely is so. She wrote it before her other published novels, and her youth absolutely shines through. The novel is quite humorous as she parodies all of the romance, humor and drama of gothic novels, while still incorporating her biting social critique. The characters are, as per Austen's usual, completely charming and lovable; I particularly love the unusual heroine, Catherine. The plot moves forward very nicely with a few twists and turns tossed in. I was taken in from the beginning and read it in three short days. A lovely read to be sure.(less)
Despite its non-grammatical title, These Is My Words is an excellent piece of fiction. Nancy E. Turner creates quite the woman in Miss Sarah Prine, an...moreDespite its non-grammatical title, These Is My Words is an excellent piece of fiction. Nancy E. Turner creates quite the woman in Miss Sarah Prine, and develops a story around her full of wit, charm, love, truth, and the grit and dirt of late-1800s Arizona Territory. Turner's writing style, though purposefully rough at the beginning, fits the story exactly and enhances the development of its main character; and every supporting character is full of life with a distinct personality and honest reactions. The novel's plot rolls forward with adventurous journeys, bouts of bravery, frightful raids, sobering trials, joyful triumphs, and a truly engrossing love story. While it may not be a life-changing work, These Is My Words is the kind of novel you can curl up with and forget the world outside. And who could want more than that?(less)
I love good short story collections, and Olive Kitteridge is an excellent short story collection. Each story, as an individual, is beautifully written...moreI love good short story collections, and Olive Kitteridge is an excellent short story collection. Each story, as an individual, is beautifully written with deeply developed characters that both make you love them and break your heart. But the stories are not separate, disjointed tales; they are expertly crafted to give you insights into the heartache and complications of romance, parenthood, marriage, family, aging, and other challenging aspects of life. The writing is pristine, the plots are often surprising, and the stories are truly moving. And then, of course, there is Olive Kitteridge herself. Strong and intimidating in her manner, yet tender and caring in her heart. She has an honesty that cuts to your core and - like all truly great characters - enough self-awareness to grow and change her view of her self and her world. You will absolutely love her. But beware, these stories are a bit (or quite) depressing. If you are feeling particularly lonely or old, you might want to read it with a friend...(less)
It is rather difficult for me to write this review, because my emotions are still running high from reading this novel. It took me about half of the b...moreIt is rather difficult for me to write this review, because my emotions are still running high from reading this novel. It took me about half of the book to get into it, but once I did I was captured. The story is utterly gorgeous; the characters have so much character and are so easy to picture clearly in your mind; the writing, though sometimes difficult (it's been a while since I've read a classic) is also sometimes brilliant. And then there's the love story - oh my goodness, what a love story. By the end, my heart was completely under Brontë's spell and tears were freely pouring from my eyes. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who loves classics. Just remember to be a trooper and give the book more than a fair shot.(less)
This is the sweetest little book. The story is fun and heart-warming, the illustrations are completely charming, and the writing is enchanting - there...moreThis is the sweetest little book. The story is fun and heart-warming, the illustrations are completely charming, and the writing is enchanting - there are so many gems of quotes. It has wonderful messages for both children and adults hidden within beautiful parables not usually found in most children's books. The moment I finished reading, I wanted to read it again...what could be better than that?(less)
I was completely taken in by The Giver, the concept of it being utterly unique. Lowry does a remarkable job laying out the story, making very difficul...moreI was completely taken in by The Giver, the concept of it being utterly unique. Lowry does a remarkable job laying out the story, making very difficult concepts accessible to people of any age. The plot does unfold a bit slowly, but the ingenuity and meatiness of the novel make that easy to forgive. The Giver is a stimulating work, asking provocative questions and offering intriguing answers.(less)
Rebecca is completely immersing. The writing is so beautiful; detailed and descriptive, but in a gentle way that still moves and flows without getting...moreRebecca is completely immersing. The writing is so beautiful; detailed and descriptive, but in a gentle way that still moves and flows without getting stuck on itself. The characters are so alive: the narrator and her innocence, Maxim and his darkness, Mrs. Danvers and her eeriness, even the house and its magnificence. And then there is Rebecca; her presence lingers on every page with so much mystery. I found myself talking out loud to every character, sobbing uncontrollably with every heartbreak (really, it was kind of ridiculous), biting my nails in anticipation, and gasping in shock at every plot twist. I read all 386 pages in three days, dying to consume as much as possible in each sitting. It is romantic, it is suspenseful, and it is beautifully written. If you're looking for a book to absolutely lose yourself in, look no further than Rebecca.(less)
Wow. This book amazed me. I am a bit of a book snob, in that I am often wary about books when they receive a lot of popular praise, but The Kite Runne...moreWow. This book amazed me. I am a bit of a book snob, in that I am often wary about books when they receive a lot of popular praise, but The Kite Runner deserved all the praise it received. Not only did it teach me about a culture I am very unfamiliar with, but it did so through superb writing, engaging characters and a thrilling storyline. I couldn't help but cringe, cry, laugh, gasp or melt at every twist and turn. The author sucked me in whole-heartedly in the beginning and kept me entranced all the way to the end. I will say that this novel is not for the faint of heart - there is some difficult stuff within those pages. But the themes and morals illustrated in this book are massive and beautiful and well worth the heartbreak. I think you would be hard-pressed to find another book that teaches history, culture, acceptance, loyalty, redemption and love as thoroughly and exquisitely as The Kite Runner.(less)
The stories and emotions of Mao's Last Dancer, Li Cunxin's autobiography, are both entertaining and emotional. His connections to his family, their st...moreThe stories and emotions of Mao's Last Dancer, Li Cunxin's autobiography, are both entertaining and emotional. His connections to his family, their struggle with poverty in communist China, his disillusionment with communism and his fight for freedom are all beautifully told and deeply moving. My favorite part, however, is his study of and eventual success in ballet. Watching him learn ballet at Madam Mao's dance school is torturous and yet inspiring, especially in comparison to my own ballet schooling. And being able to journey with him as he falls deeper and deeper in love with his art form is an absolute honor. I was entertained, taught, made to think and inspired during just about every one of the 445 pages - I loved it.(less)
I'm not usually a fan of memoirs, because to me they often feel like complaining or boo-hooing. "The Glass Castle," however, was brilliant. The story...moreI'm not usually a fan of memoirs, because to me they often feel like complaining or boo-hooing. "The Glass Castle," however, was brilliant. The story of Jeannette Walls' childhood is so remarkable, I would often have to pause in my reading and literally say outloud, "Holy crap, this is true." I felt as if I was reading a piece of beautifully-written fiction with interesting plot lines, complex characters and layered relationships. The book held my interest from start to finish, and never once felt like a sob story. And the best part of the memoir was that it did more than simply tell her story - it offered a new point of view and made me really think. An excellent, excellent read.(less)
A girl I worked with (who I didn't really like) recommended Girl With a Pearl Earring to me. I decided to give it a shot since I had heard of it befor...moreA girl I worked with (who I didn't really like) recommended Girl With a Pearl Earring to me. I decided to give it a shot since I had heard of it before and it was relatively short. I set off for the book store, bought the book, and read it in two days. I had never read a book that so perfectly melded history, art and fiction. Chevalier does such a wonderful job describing her setting, painting her characters, and bringing the reader into the work. The colors, the sounds, the smells, the emotions - all of them are brilliantly captured and terribly engrossing. This is a great read for anyone looking for a short, but captivating novel. Just do me a favor and do not watch the movie. Even my dear Colin Firth could not save the damage they did to the end of this book.(less)
I read "The Iliad" as a senior in college and was so surprised by how much I liked it. I read the Robert Fitzgerald translation, and it was much less...moreI read "The Iliad" as a senior in college and was so surprised by how much I liked it. I read the Robert Fitzgerald translation, and it was much less difficult to read than I had originally anticipated. The story is wonderfully heroic and offers much action, but homer also adds in a lot of comedy. The war, the friendship, the rivalry, the heroes and, of course, the gods. After reading "The Iliad", I completely changed my view of the Greek play and am excited to begin reading "The Odyssey". I definitely recommend this book to anyone thinking about extending their list of classics.(less)
It took me a while to get into this book, but once I did I really liked it. Annie Proulx does a fantastic job writing this novel in a style that place...moreIt took me a while to get into this book, but once I did I really liked it. Annie Proulx does a fantastic job writing this novel in a style that places you in the heart of cold, fish-stinky Newfoundland. She then fills that land with such a warm, genuine and quirky cast of characters that you have no choice but to warm up to the novel. By the time you finish, her themes and motifs are very obvious, but she develops them so subtly that they are completely believable and not at all forced. To top it all off, the novel ends with the most perfect final sentence of any book I have ever read. Sometimes I wonder about books that win top literary prizes, but this one definitely deserved it.(less)
If you don't mind some language and sex, this book is one of the most originally written books I have ever read. It takes a while to know what the hec...moreIf you don't mind some language and sex, this book is one of the most originally written books I have ever read. It takes a while to know what the heck is going on and, once you do understand, you need to be willing to dive in and let go of your straight-thinking mind. I have known several people who have begun this book but given up on it for one reason or another - big mistake. This book is fabulously written and incredibly layered. The love story is beautiful, yet troubling; the main characters are likable, yet seriously disturbed; the ending is insanely depressing, yet deeply touching. It is one of those books that stays with you long after you have finished reading.(less)
Anna Karenina, from all outside appearances, is incredibly intimidating. Do not be fooled. From the very first page, Tolstoy's masterful writing is ex...moreAnna Karenina, from all outside appearances, is incredibly intimidating. Do not be fooled. From the very first page, Tolstoy's masterful writing is exciting and engaging. The plot moves along swiftly with Tolstoy deftly weaving several intricate plots. The many characters absolutely leap off the page, all of their joy and all of their agony throbbing with life. Tolstoy's writing is superb. He expertly walks the fine line of description: giving just enough to fill the pages with richness and depth, but leaving just enough for the imagination and interpretation. One of the most impressive aspects of Tolstoy's writing is his use of foreshadowing. Though the passages of foreshadowing are obvious and haunting, they in no way detract from the suspense and drama of the story as it unfolds: the reader knows what is coming, but is swept up in it anyway. As fair warning: there is a good amount of philosophical discussion regarding Russian politics, religion, agriculture, etc. If one is interested in that sort of thing, Tolstoy's musings will engage them; if one is not interested in that sort of thing, just skim. The main story lines alone offer incredible meat to stew over and discuss. Though a bulky 1,000 or so pages, Anna Karenina is a true read: you will be dying to turn the pages as you begin and burning to talk about it after you finish.(less)
I decided to read these books mainly because the movies were about to come out and I rarely see a movie before reading the book. I had always loved th...moreI decided to read these books mainly because the movies were about to come out and I rarely see a movie before reading the book. I had always loved the animated The Hobbit as a kid, so I figured I would love the books. And I was right. Beginning with The Hobbit, I was immediately enamored. I loved the adventure of it and was totally sucked in to the new world Tolkien created. When I came to The Fellowship of the Ring, my dedication as a reader kicked in a little more. I'm one of those people who has to finish a book once I start it. The Fellowship of the Ring is a bit of a challenge as it is quite long and filled with much traveling, but if you can focus on the characters and the relationships that are built during this first book, your dedication will greatly pay off. The last two books, The Two Towers and The Return of the King, are just absolutely awesome. Sure, you have to withstand some elfish songs and the ents, but the story is so gripping. When finished with the entire series, the themes and comparisons and lessons you can draw from the books are practically never-ending.(less)
I think I could probably read any book by Toni Morrison and be completely captivated, if not by the book alone then by her beautiful construction of s...moreI think I could probably read any book by Toni Morrison and be completely captivated, if not by the book alone then by her beautiful construction of sentences. This book, however, offers it all. Though Tar Baby holds the #1 place for me of Toni Morrison works, Beloved is more than worth the read. The story of this woman and all she must endure for her family and attempted happiness is both moving and haunting. Morrison finds a way to allow the reader to easily throw their emotions into the novel so that you will feel anger, love, passion, hatred, sadness, loss, longing, ecstasy and so much more during your reader's journey. Not to mention that every so often you will need to stop to admire a single sentence or passage whose exquisite writing absolutely takes your breath away.(less)
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