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Samantha Hemsley (2 KP) rated The Reader on the 6.27 in Books
Jun 30, 2019
Feel-good (4 more)
Simple easy-to read style
A celebration of the power of reading
Lovable characters
Brilliant translation from French
I'm so glad to have come across this little hidden gem.
The unfortunately named (apparently -- I think you have to be a French speaker to really understand the reasoning) Guylain Vignolles is 36, lives alone with his beloved goldfish and works in a job he detests -- operating a book-pulping machine in a publishing factory. Guylain alleviates his resultant mental anguish by rescuing the occasional surviving pages at the end of each shift and reading them aloud to his fellow commuters on the 6.27 train each morning much to their mingled bewilderment and joy. Featuring some wonderful larger-than-life characters such as the classical theatre loving security guard who only speaks in Verse and the reformed alcoholic engaged in a quest to be reunited with his missing limbs and the toilet attendant with a secret talent for writing, this book is quirky and a bit ridiculous in the very best way.
As a fellow book lover, I empathised with Guylain's heartbreak over destroying so many books day in and day out. I can't even bear to write in a book or fold the corner of a page never mind reduce them to a pulp! I absolutely loved the way he attempted to do the books justice by giving what pages he could save an audience. This book is a real testament to the power and pleasure of reading aloud which is something I'm hugely passionate about -- I even wrote one of my university dissertations about the benefits of reading aloud with children.
I also loved its message of how reading can unite people, despite it being seen as a generally quite solitary or even introverted activity. Through his reading, Guylain finds himself being invited to do regular readings at a care home, much to the delight of the residents and when he finds a USB stick on his usual train seat containing over 70 diary entries, the lonely Guylain might just find that it leads to true love.
As well as being very charming and quaint, the novel manages to avoid becoming trite with its very astute observations and brilliant humour -- often laugh-out-loud funny. The prose is simple but very skillful -- especially the verses concocted by Yvon the security guard. Huge credit must also be given to the translator here. (The book was originally written in French) To translate rhyme into a different language so that it still rhymes and still makes perfect sense in the context can't be an easy feat!
My only criticism is that the book is very short -- fewer than 200 pages. Apparently the author is usually a writer of short stories and this is his first novel. This definitely shows as the ending feels very abrupt and definitely as if it could have done with another 50 pages or so; perhaps even more. I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet! Having said that, the ending was very sweet and it was only its abruptness that prevented it from being 100% satisfactory. I wouldn't quite say that there are any loose ends but it would have been nice to find out a little more about some of the characters and their stories.
Overall though this was a really lovely feel-good read that will appeal to anyone who loves literature and zany but endearing characters. I read one review that said the plot was "outlandish" and the characters "unbelievable" but I believe this reviewer was missing the point. This book champions the escapist qualities of reading and to have a story and characters who perhaps just slightly transcend reality can only elevate the escapism just that bit more. Feasibility be damned, I loved Guylain and his supporting cast members and I think I could easily read this short but sweet little story again and again!
The unfortunately named (apparently -- I think you have to be a French speaker to really understand the reasoning) Guylain Vignolles is 36, lives alone with his beloved goldfish and works in a job he detests -- operating a book-pulping machine in a publishing factory. Guylain alleviates his resultant mental anguish by rescuing the occasional surviving pages at the end of each shift and reading them aloud to his fellow commuters on the 6.27 train each morning much to their mingled bewilderment and joy. Featuring some wonderful larger-than-life characters such as the classical theatre loving security guard who only speaks in Verse and the reformed alcoholic engaged in a quest to be reunited with his missing limbs and the toilet attendant with a secret talent for writing, this book is quirky and a bit ridiculous in the very best way.
As a fellow book lover, I empathised with Guylain's heartbreak over destroying so many books day in and day out. I can't even bear to write in a book or fold the corner of a page never mind reduce them to a pulp! I absolutely loved the way he attempted to do the books justice by giving what pages he could save an audience. This book is a real testament to the power and pleasure of reading aloud which is something I'm hugely passionate about -- I even wrote one of my university dissertations about the benefits of reading aloud with children.
I also loved its message of how reading can unite people, despite it being seen as a generally quite solitary or even introverted activity. Through his reading, Guylain finds himself being invited to do regular readings at a care home, much to the delight of the residents and when he finds a USB stick on his usual train seat containing over 70 diary entries, the lonely Guylain might just find that it leads to true love.
As well as being very charming and quaint, the novel manages to avoid becoming trite with its very astute observations and brilliant humour -- often laugh-out-loud funny. The prose is simple but very skillful -- especially the verses concocted by Yvon the security guard. Huge credit must also be given to the translator here. (The book was originally written in French) To translate rhyme into a different language so that it still rhymes and still makes perfect sense in the context can't be an easy feat!
My only criticism is that the book is very short -- fewer than 200 pages. Apparently the author is usually a writer of short stories and this is his first novel. This definitely shows as the ending feels very abrupt and definitely as if it could have done with another 50 pages or so; perhaps even more. I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet! Having said that, the ending was very sweet and it was only its abruptness that prevented it from being 100% satisfactory. I wouldn't quite say that there are any loose ends but it would have been nice to find out a little more about some of the characters and their stories.
Overall though this was a really lovely feel-good read that will appeal to anyone who loves literature and zany but endearing characters. I read one review that said the plot was "outlandish" and the characters "unbelievable" but I believe this reviewer was missing the point. This book champions the escapist qualities of reading and to have a story and characters who perhaps just slightly transcend reality can only elevate the escapism just that bit more. Feasibility be damned, I loved Guylain and his supporting cast members and I think I could easily read this short but sweet little story again and again!
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated Girl Meets Boy: Because There Are Two Sides to Every Story in Books
Apr 27, 2018
The cover and summary were misleading for this book. I expected stories that were related to different interesting meetings and occurrences, screwy relationships, typical teen drama.
Instead I got a very strange and rather awkward mix of sex-addicts, homosexuals, transgender, and native Americans.
I'm not saying I don't like those stories, I'm just saying I wasn't expecting it.
The above reasons are not why I didn't like the stories: those are just facts about the characters. The stories themselves just didn't seem to connect to me, I couldn't relate to any of them. Maybe it's because I'm one of those weird girls with a completely functional romantic relationship, but a lot of the content in this book was just like "uh… why are they acting like that?"
Anyway, it felt awkward. that's the only word I can use to describe it. Some of them were good, some of them sucked. Most of the writing was mediocre.
I guess all I can say is… this is probably the worst short story collection I've ever read. Sorry, I wanted to like it… It was just awkward.
*This review is copyright Haley Mathiot and Amazon Vine*
Instead I got a very strange and rather awkward mix of sex-addicts, homosexuals, transgender, and native Americans.
I'm not saying I don't like those stories, I'm just saying I wasn't expecting it.
The above reasons are not why I didn't like the stories: those are just facts about the characters. The stories themselves just didn't seem to connect to me, I couldn't relate to any of them. Maybe it's because I'm one of those weird girls with a completely functional romantic relationship, but a lot of the content in this book was just like "uh… why are they acting like that?"
Anyway, it felt awkward. that's the only word I can use to describe it. Some of them were good, some of them sucked. Most of the writing was mediocre.
I guess all I can say is… this is probably the worst short story collection I've ever read. Sorry, I wanted to like it… It was just awkward.
*This review is copyright Haley Mathiot and Amazon Vine*
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Maya's Notebook in Books
May 10, 2018
Maya Vidal may only be 20 years old, but she has been through a lot in that short time. Sent to live in a remote village in Chile after battling great challenges in her life, Maya uses her notebook to write about and learn from those challenges. The mistakes from her past will help her to hopefully lead a more productive and promising future.
Told from Maya's point of view, we are transported all over the world. Most of the book takes place in Chiloe, Chile, but you will also spend time in Berkeley, California, in Oregon, in Las Vegas and other countries throughout the world. Taken back and forth in time from Maya's present to the events of her past that brought her to Chile in the first place. This book is full of strong family ties that help Maya to keep her head on somewhat straight.
Overall this was a great story, but it took way too long to read. Full of great details it makes you feel as though you are in the setting of the book.
Favorite quote from the book: "...there's no fuel for the bonfires of despair."
Told from Maya's point of view, we are transported all over the world. Most of the book takes place in Chiloe, Chile, but you will also spend time in Berkeley, California, in Oregon, in Las Vegas and other countries throughout the world. Taken back and forth in time from Maya's present to the events of her past that brought her to Chile in the first place. This book is full of strong family ties that help Maya to keep her head on somewhat straight.
Overall this was a great story, but it took way too long to read. Full of great details it makes you feel as though you are in the setting of the book.
Favorite quote from the book: "...there's no fuel for the bonfires of despair."
BobbiesDustyPages (1259 KP) rated The Gunslinger in Books
Apr 21, 2019
I first read The Gunslinger when I was in high school and at the height of my Stephen King obsession. Going in and didn't really know what to expect from the story since I didn't really look too much into the series when I first picked it up which I'm pretty glad I didn't because I have never been much of a western fan so I'm not sure if I really would have have this a fair shot.
The Gunslinger honestly can be on the slow side even for such a short book but King does an amazing job of really showing you the world ge is building while still leaving a lot open for the series to build around. After reading this for the first and second time in still not sure how I feel about Rowland aka The Gunslinger I do grow to really love the character in the next book but as an introduction my feelings are never really solid. The character that really peaks my interest is The Man In Black through out the book I just can't wait to find out more about him and why Rowland is chasing him.
The Gunslinger honestly can be on the slow side even for such a short book but King does an amazing job of really showing you the world ge is building while still leaving a lot open for the series to build around. After reading this for the first and second time in still not sure how I feel about Rowland aka The Gunslinger I do grow to really love the character in the next book but as an introduction my feelings are never really solid. The character that really peaks my interest is The Man In Black through out the book I just can't wait to find out more about him and why Rowland is chasing him.
Georgina DeBurca (2 KP) rated The Reaper and the Cop (Liberty Oakwood, #1) in Books
Jan 29, 2018
Just for reference - I will not be giving anything away in my review. Don;t wanna spoil it for all you potential readers. What I will say is: Wow.
As you can guess, The characters are a reaper, as in grim reaper... and a cop.
Well. I have a thing for cops ;) And Troy is soooo hot and domineering, yet with a caring side. As heroes go, he is perfect in my opinion.
Laney is a great heroine. She has a fantastic attitude and is incredibly sarcastic to boot. She is who she is, and if the other person doesn't like it? Tough. I love that about her. She's strong and independent, and to me feels very confident. What every woman aspires to be. Awesome sense of humour too.
Short read so I like that I can get through it in an evening. These sort of books are a god send to a mother of two - or a person busy via other reasons I guess.
Well written. Well thought out story line and left me wanting more. Loved it and would definitely suggest to others. <3
As you can guess, The characters are a reaper, as in grim reaper... and a cop.
Well. I have a thing for cops ;) And Troy is soooo hot and domineering, yet with a caring side. As heroes go, he is perfect in my opinion.
Laney is a great heroine. She has a fantastic attitude and is incredibly sarcastic to boot. She is who she is, and if the other person doesn't like it? Tough. I love that about her. She's strong and independent, and to me feels very confident. What every woman aspires to be. Awesome sense of humour too.
Short read so I like that I can get through it in an evening. These sort of books are a god send to a mother of two - or a person busy via other reasons I guess.
Well written. Well thought out story line and left me wanting more. Loved it and would definitely suggest to others. <3
ClareR (5879 KP) rated Paris Adrift in Books
Feb 6, 2018
Time travel in Paris.
A group of people who can travel through time decide to send two people back: a chronometrist and an incumbent. These two people will help to influence another incumbent in Paris 2017, and set off a chain of events that will save the world. Each 'anomaly' (which is what incumbents use to travel though time) has its very own incumbent, who is the only person capable of using it as a door in time.
Hallie's anomaly is in the cellar of a bar (Millie's) in Paris. Long story short, she meets the chronometrist, uses the anomaly and hops through time a bit, using her trips to change history.
I really enjoyed this. There was clearly a reasonable amount of research into the times that she went back to, and a lot of imagination went in to the times she travelled forwards to. I liked Hallie and her crazy, bohemian friends. I especially liked how it showed that small things can influence the big things in society.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this great book!
Hallie's anomaly is in the cellar of a bar (Millie's) in Paris. Long story short, she meets the chronometrist, uses the anomaly and hops through time a bit, using her trips to change history.
I really enjoyed this. There was clearly a reasonable amount of research into the times that she went back to, and a lot of imagination went in to the times she travelled forwards to. I liked Hallie and her crazy, bohemian friends. I especially liked how it showed that small things can influence the big things in society.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this great book!
Gail (4 KP) rated Havoc (A Silent Sons MC #2) in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Havoc by Ambere Sabo
Five Stars
Havoc was an intriguing read. I found myself sad and ready to defend him at every turn. Angel was so feisty and stubborn. They made an interesting pair. I felt bad for Havoc when his sister turned to Gunner over him. But on the other hand he left on a man hunt to find their father not thinking of the other people who cared about him. Bikers always fascinated me the loyalty they have for each other and the lengths they go to protect their families. The visuals the author gave painted a clear picture of a young man wishing to free his family from the pain and stress his father brought upon them. You get a clear picture of how fierce and scared Angel was through out the whole story. Their relationship was hot and short but I guess once you know what you want you go for it and don’t let it go. Havoc was really just a soft teddy bear inside with the means to kill and protect all those he loved. The perfect blend of alpha male and sensitive.
Five Stars
Havoc was an intriguing read. I found myself sad and ready to defend him at every turn. Angel was so feisty and stubborn. They made an interesting pair. I felt bad for Havoc when his sister turned to Gunner over him. But on the other hand he left on a man hunt to find their father not thinking of the other people who cared about him. Bikers always fascinated me the loyalty they have for each other and the lengths they go to protect their families. The visuals the author gave painted a clear picture of a young man wishing to free his family from the pain and stress his father brought upon them. You get a clear picture of how fierce and scared Angel was through out the whole story. Their relationship was hot and short but I guess once you know what you want you go for it and don’t let it go. Havoc was really just a soft teddy bear inside with the means to kill and protect all those he loved. The perfect blend of alpha male and sensitive.
Tami (7 KP) rated Out of the Shadows in Books
Jul 15, 2018
I was very pleased with this book. The characters were likable and brought me great joy when things worked out for them in the end.
The storyline kept me wanting more from page one.
I appreciated that the love scene was further into the book (steamy too) because it gave you something to process their love interets before totally turning it into a sex fest (not that this book is a sex fest, I just hate books that do that.)
I wish the story would have had a little bit more meat on it, it is a short read. I would have liked to have had more backstory on the characters and more of the ex-boyfriend storyline.
I know that the Aztec gods were depicted based on the actual gods, but I, personally, wished that they were a little more pronouceable. I spend a lot of time skimming over the names which left me a little confused as to which god was doing what.
3 1/2 stars leaning toward 4. I plan on reading book 2, so it couldn’t have been that bad.
The storyline kept me wanting more from page one.
I appreciated that the love scene was further into the book (steamy too) because it gave you something to process their love interets before totally turning it into a sex fest (not that this book is a sex fest, I just hate books that do that.)
I wish the story would have had a little bit more meat on it, it is a short read. I would have liked to have had more backstory on the characters and more of the ex-boyfriend storyline.
I know that the Aztec gods were depicted based on the actual gods, but I, personally, wished that they were a little more pronouceable. I spend a lot of time skimming over the names which left me a little confused as to which god was doing what.
3 1/2 stars leaning toward 4. I plan on reading book 2, so it couldn’t have been that bad.
CassidyTristyn (189 KP) rated Escaping the Holocaust: A True Story in Books
Aug 14, 2018
Content (2 more)
Good length for young readers
Quick read
Contains spoilers, click to show
I have read several Holocaust novels and each one never fails to give me new insight into that dark period of history. This book was no different. Having very recently read The Book Thief I was curious as to how much I'd like this book since I loved the other, and overall I enjoyed the read. Overall it took me maybe three hours to read the book. It is suggested for 5th-7th graders and I agree that is an appropriate age group despite the content. While it discusses World War 2 and the Holocaust it doesn't have any gory or too intense content that younger readers couldn't enjoy it. The story itself is a narrative of ones boys experience of his time in Poland when World War 2 began. He details him and his mother's journey across Poland and eventually into Hungary. It gives an innocents perspective on the events of war. It's a short read if you are just looking for something quick and entertaining. It would also be a good book to use to introduce your child or any young reader to dark topics such as the Holocaust.
Ross (3284 KP) rated Batman: The Killing Joke (2016) in Movies
Nov 9, 2018
The 2016 adaptation of one of the best-known, most iconic graphic novels of all time had massive shoes to fill. For me, it fell a little short, but was saved by the voice-acting and by, largely, sticking to the storyline it had to work with.
Before we get into the Killing Joke story proper, there is an added storyline following the relationship between Batman and Batgirl. This, plus the more cartoon-y style of the animation were a definite downer for a first 20 minutes. It doesn't really add anything to the overall piece, there is no apparent impact on Batman's actions as a result of their relationship.
That aside, this is a thrilling, gripping adaptation of the book, which sticks close to it. We learn about the Joker's backstory and first interaction with Batman, and we see that he has got into Batman's head as he always wanted.
The use of Mark Hamill as Mr J is excellent, his voice totally captures the Joker's madness, softness and violence.
A great spend of an hour, but something of a let-down from the book.
Before we get into the Killing Joke story proper, there is an added storyline following the relationship between Batman and Batgirl. This, plus the more cartoon-y style of the animation were a definite downer for a first 20 minutes. It doesn't really add anything to the overall piece, there is no apparent impact on Batman's actions as a result of their relationship.
That aside, this is a thrilling, gripping adaptation of the book, which sticks close to it. We learn about the Joker's backstory and first interaction with Batman, and we see that he has got into Batman's head as he always wanted.
The use of Mark Hamill as Mr J is excellent, his voice totally captures the Joker's madness, softness and violence.
A great spend of an hour, but something of a let-down from the book.