Books that have the characters travel, should include a map. Rating of five worms is perfection!
Under Fishbone Clouds by Sam Meekings Four and a half worms
Beautiful language and an interesting perspective. Story begins rather convolutedly and I almost stopped reading it. Exquisitely descriptive of the landscape and very insightful regarding the internal journey of the characters. Needed to continue the saga to the female lead’s end. Women are systematically oppressed and harsh political change is the only way their status is elevated. I wish that I knew more about Chinese mythology, history and geography, it would have added to understanding this complicated book and it needed a map because modern maps are useless.
To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis Three worms
You have to pay attention or you will get confused. The story line is logical but a bit complex. Unfortunately, the vernacular is Americanized. Very fun read, when attentive. States the title too frequently. Could use a map to show the area discussed.
Midnight and the Meaning of Love by Sister Souljah Two and a half worms
Well written but can be viewed two ways. It could be a love story about passion and commitment. Alternatively, it could be an egotistical misogynistic sex-driven teenager with paranoia and a hero complex. Oppression of women with power, control and polygamy is never about protection or demographics.
Freedom by Jonathan Franzen Two and a half worms
Starts well and the chapter regarding road rage is exceptional. Cumbersome at times interspersed with bits of brilliance. Too much emphasis on the son’s bodily secretions and a disgusting description of retrieving a ring. Equal time was needed with the daughter but her story was mostly ignored. The ending was a bit too tidy.
Busy Body by M.C. Beaton Two worms
A few funny bits drowned by boring bits. Story is shorthanded with lots of time gaps and not enough information. This is the umpteenth book written about the character. Alas, a formulistic writer who seems to have lost interest in the characters. Maybe some of the earlier books are livelier.
Personal Notes:
I strive to keep these reviews brief. I don’t want to give away too much of the plot line if you choose to read the book. I despise it when reviewers ruin the ending of a book. I try to point out the strengths of the book as well as areas of improvement. It takes a lot of moxie to get published and I hope that they all keep writing.
Peruse previous reviews posted on June 6th, May 9th, April 10th, February 17th, 2011 and September 14th, 2010. Please join the followers of this blog, link on Facebook and Twitter. I welcome suggestions of books to read which are available in the library system (MELSA in the Twin Cities, MN area). I try to post a new review every month or so.
Read to a child every day (or to another adult).
© 2011
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