From the Bookshelf of Apocalypse Whenever…

The Host (The Host, #1)

Stephenie Meyer

Why we're reading this: This is from the perspective of a parasitic alien in a human host, after most of the humans on the planet…more
[close] This is from the perspective of a parasitic alien in a human host, after most of the humans on the planet have been converted. A few humans remain here and there, trying to survive in a world that no longer welcomes them.

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Jun 21, 2008 Kelly rated it liked it

Shelves: dystopia-sci-fi, speculative-fiction

*very* mild spoilers herein, but not put behind a cut

I read recently in an interview with Meyer where she acknowledged being a good storyteller but not necessarily a good writer- this distinction is VERY apparent in The Host- even more so than in the Twilight series. In retrospect, I granted Twilight, et al, a break because they are YA; I don't know if that holds merit, though- YA books can be great lit, but that's what stuck in my head while reading. I also think that first and foremost, as th *very* mild spoilers herein, but not put behind a cut

I read recently in an interview with Meyer where she acknowledged being a good storyteller but not necessarily a good writer- this distinction is VERY apparent in The Host- even more so than in the Twilight series. In retrospect, I granted Twilight, et al, a break because they are YA; I don't know if that holds merit, though- YA books can be great lit, but that's what stuck in my head while reading. I also think that first and foremost, as this is Meyer's fourth (verry long) novel, she and her editors REALLY should have worked on some seemingly huge flaws.

As with all of her books, the story keeps you reading but there are SO many things that get in the way, among them her totally excessive use of several literary conceits- if i have to read about our protagonist being carried ONE MORE TIME by a large, gorgeous man with strong, safe arms, I just might have to chuck the book across the room. Enough with the damsel in distress, already! In Twilight, I also didn't quite realize just how volatile the male characters are, but in The Host, it's QUITE obvious. Wanderer is constantly excusing abusive behavior of the men around her and it's never quite dealt with sufficiently, though Meyer gives it a go. I also am unnerved by her penchant for writing younger girls with older men- it's just plain WEIRD...why have Wanderer start of at 17- can she not write about a grown woman who doesn't base EVERYTHING on men and their smells/muscles/arms?

The biggest thing that bothers me about Wanderer, however, and I've read this in previous reviews, is the just plain dullness of her mind! I will gladly allow for what someone referred to the "alien learning curve" but oh my WORD can you please write her as somewhat intelligent?! It's irritating when not once, not twice, but three and four times, we have figured out what's happening (and the ending) only to have to read eight pages or more before, "EUREKEA!" She gets it!

All whinging aside, I suppose I enjoyed reading the book and hope that should Meyer continue Wanderer's storyline (as she's mentioned she might) that it gets less hokey and some of the cliches are worked out.

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Sep 12, 2008 Kristin rated it it was amazing

Shelves: sci-fi, faves

I loved this book! What an original take on alien occupation. Stephanie Meyer has a great talent for making you care about her characters. This was one of those books that makes you sorry that you are finished reading it. I want more!

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