Me answers “Did anyone else have this experience? It...”

Ruth Warner asked this question about A Little Life:

Did anyone else have this experience? It seems like this book needed some serious editing. I love a long read but this was over the top. I felt like it might never end...this is separate from the content which was relentless, like a hammer on my head, over and over however precious comes to mind. I can't understand the accolades for this book. I did finish it, I say proudly.

Me Yes, Ruth! You are a voice of sanity.

I also did not understand all the hoopla over this book. The first half was engaging enough--not great, but I co…moreYes, Ruth! You are a voice of sanity.

I also did not understand all the hoopla over this book. The first half was engaging enough--not great, but I could stick with it--but the second half was a bore fest. I was not emotionally engaged with the characters, especially Jude, who annoyed me after a while. Guess I'm just a cold fish.

The editor must have been sleeping when he got to this one. The repetition (ie, Jude's suffering) as well as much of the prose could use a good snipping.

Check out the New York Review of Books for A Little Life, if you haven't already. I think you'll find it interesting. (Thanks to another goodreads reviewer, Marcus, for suggesting it.)

I also finished it, which doesn't affect me one way or the other. Am I determined or just a glutton for punishment?(less)

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