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What Members Thought
This is a book which takes to the end to really appreciate the beauty of words and the story. Half way through I was struggling, I really liked the premise but found it to be a bit ponderous . Then something clicked and I read the last half in one sitting. A story which encompasses strength and struggle, love and loss and the seemingly endless disparity in gender equality but above all the power of the written word.
Very good. Having spent 3 years living in Oxford (and one in Jericho) I appreciated the locations. I enjoyed the historical detail. The description of the impact of the Great War was very good, particularly the portrayal of the psychological trauma suffered by soldiers - nicely echoes Pat Barker's Regeneration trilogy. I thought building a story around the actual photograph of the Scriptorium staff (presented at the back of the book) was very clever and well done. Overall an engaging and enterta
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One common criticism of this book is that it moves at a glacial pace. While this is true, for me it meant I had the space and leisure to think more deeply about the themes - how words shape our world, the intersections of class and gender, and who gets to 'gatekeep' our language.
Another criticism is that the protagonist lacks agency. Also true, and also a welcome change for me from the stereotypical 'strong female character' who is all fists and feist and rebellion. She is more of an observer, a ...more
Another criticism is that the protagonist lacks agency. Also true, and also a welcome change for me from the stereotypical 'strong female character' who is all fists and feist and rebellion. She is more of an observer, a ...more
Jan 26, 2021
Victoriakor
marked it as to-read
Feb 13, 2021
Carolyn
marked it as to-read
Apr 30, 2023
Samantha
marked it as to-read
Jun 17, 2023
Nicola Marsh
added it
Sep 26, 2023
Brittany
added it
