Jen’s 2020 WiT challenge

[Jen]

Hey! I’m late to join but just in time for WiT month. My goal is to read 10 books this year and have only read one so far. Looking forward to finding new titles in these threads.

I have about 25 owned titles so lots to choose from.

So pleased I stumbled upon your group when looking for a WiT space. Happy reading!

[Jen]

2020 reads:

1. The Lover - 4*
2. Four by Four - 4*
3. Hurricane Season - 4*

[Jen]

4. The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree - 4*
5. Lake Like a Mirror - 2*
6. L'Amante anglaise - 4.5*
7. The House of the Spirits - 3.5*

[Alwynne]

Interesting selection, although I've only read two of the authors, I think Duras is a wonderful writer, at least in her later more abstract novels but I didn't manage to get through the Allende for some reason. I'm intrigued by the Mesa, is it as fascinating as its description implies? I've been thinking about trying it but don't know anyone who's read it.

[Jen]

Alwynne wrote: "Interesting selection, although I've only read two of the authors, I think Duras is a wonderful writer, at least in her later more abstract novels but I didn't manage to get through the Allende for..."

Hi Alwynne. I enjoyed Four by Four very much when I read it. More than that it has stuck with me. I adjust my rating at the year’s end based on lasting impressions and this one could move.

I read it with another GR group and there were varying opinions. You may wish to have a look but be wary of spoilers - https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

I feel a bit mean with my Allende rating. It’s a well crafted epic and there is much to admire. But I was listening to it at the same time as reading Enlightenment, and I think my experience suffered from magic realism overload.

[Alwynne]

Thank you, the fact that the Mesa stayed with you is particularly promising. And thanks for the links too. I think I know what you mean about Allende, I'm not that keen on magical realism in general, but also I recall it being a fairly conventional novel, and there was something a little monotone about it, so that the material was more interesting than the delivery. But yes 'well-crafted' is just right!

[Sara]

I haven't read Duras either, but am looking forward to exploring her thanks to you and Alwynne's conversation here. Thank you both!