May 2013 Book of the Month: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

[Michelle]

Here is the discussion thread for May's book!! I can't wait to read it!

[Alina]

I've heard really awesome things about this book but I've never actually read it. It's on my list of books I want to read, but not my top priority, do you think I should read it sooner? How well written is it?

[Katie]

Read the entire series last year, well at least the Douglas Adams part of the series, I loved it.

[Katie]

This is my fifth time reading this book! :D I've read the entire (Adams' portion) series twice, but THGTTG is definitely the best.

So, has anyone started in yet? I have to say, I don't know if it's on account of his being British, absolutely brilliant, or both, but Adams has got to be the funniest author I've ever read.

I mean, he's basically captured the human essence. I'm basically Arthur Dent in the mornings: no coffee and I wouldn't notice if my house was on fire.

Also, I must use the word squelched more often.

[A.E.]

I haven't read this book in forever, but it's come up over and over again in my life, usually in audiobook/BBC radio series form (best radio ever, surely?), so I'm thrilled to have a good reason to come back to it! And to share it with all you ace IGGPPC peoples :)

[Michelle]

I just started it and because I watched the movie first (years ago) I'm picturing Martin Freeman as Arthur Dent <3
I'm really enjoying it so far!!

[Elizabeth]

I finished it today. I gave it three stars, because even though I liked it, it was a bit too all over the place for me. I really liked the humor though, and the last third of the book was very good. I feel like also, since its the first in a series, they probably get better over time. I can't wait to start on June's pick!

[Katie]

So, what happened to the discussion part?! Anyone have any insights on anything? Any philosophical breakthroughs? ;D

I, for one, have discovered that I REALLY need to start carrying a towel...

But more seriously, I've been trying to peg down why Adams is SO GOSH DARN FUNNY. Any ideas? I mean, besides being a master of clever turns of phrase, I think Adams is just able to put into words what is basic human nature that we all overlook, and he's great at connecting details (like mentioning Trillian [not by name] in the first few pages and introducing her halfway through the book). Know what I mean?

What do you think? I'm just interested in writing skills and tricks and all, so I'd like to see what you guys think. ;D

[Lizzie]

I read this book last year for another bookclub I'm in. It is such a funny book.

[Alina]

I had the book on hold at the library, but it didn't come in in time for me to read it :( I'm starting it soon, when it comes in guys! Super excited :)

[Katie]

[Cortney]

So, I've read Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy like twice, but haven't read the rest of the series. And this is ridiculous considering that I own the compendium.

[Cortney]

By the way, if you have never read Douglas Adam's intro to the compendium, surf the dregs of the internet to find it because there is a section that is pure genius.