Less by Andrew Sean Greer, 3.5 stars

[Apple]

I didn't plan to read this, but I saw someone from another group had read the second book in the series, and it just happened to work for something else I needed to fill elsewhere. To be honest, until I saw her post, I knew nothing about it.

The synopsis says that Arthur Less is a failed novelist. I don't think that is really fair, he has published 2 or 3 novels, and I think if you get passed the first one you are not failing. What I would say, is that Arthur Less is someone who is a little unsure of himself, he doesn't feel he is quite good enough, and exacerbating this is the fact that his former lover is getting married and has invited him to the wedding.

To escape, Arthur takes on a trip to 5 or 6 countries around the world, which continue to prove that Arthur is not unsuccessful, he is just a little different, and this adventure is pleasant enough.

The novel seems to look at what is love, how do we love, is love forever, can you choose love, and what is happiness. I did find it somewhat predictable though, and incredibly frustrating that he is referred to as Less rather than Arthur throughout the book.

I had accidentally ordered the second book from the library first, so I will read that soon, but this was only a 3.5 stars from me.

[Joy D]

Personally, I liked the second book more than the first. Will look forward to seeing what you think.

[Amy]

I did not love this one, although I was very much in the minority. I chopped it up to personal circumstance at the time of reading. But I’m always open to hearing what other people liked. I’m so glad you joined us and I so look forward to more of your reviews and getting to know you better.

[Robin P]

It was fine, I always enjoy academic satires, especially related to literature professors, since that was my original career plan (I didn't end up doing it.) But not special enough to win the Pulitzer, which it did. Maybe literary people who judge for the prize like books about literary people, the way that Oscar judges like movies about the movies.

[Apple]

Robin P wrote: "It was fine, I always enjoy academic satires, especially related to literature professors, since that was my original career plan (I didn't end up doing it.) But not special enough to win the Pulit..."

So, literary enough, but not a good gay? ;)

That was my thoughts, fine, but not prizeworthy.

[Booknblues]

I think that this book was a hit or miss for people. I got a kick out of Arthur Less.

[Nicole]

I particularly liked this one as well - I try to read a number of the Pulitzers every year and not all of them have been so enjoyable.