I’m glad I read the short story “A Perfect Day for Bananafish” before reading this. It’s helpful to have some context of the Glass family when pickingI’m glad I read the short story “A Perfect Day for Bananafish” before reading this. It’s helpful to have some context of the Glass family when picking this up.
“Franny” is a short story following the youngest member of the Glass family, Franny, as she struggles to compose herself during a lunch date with her boyfriend, Lane, on a weekend visit she makes to him in 1950s upstate New York.
“Zooey” is a novella following her older brother, the second youngest member of the Glass family, Zachary/Zooey, in the fallout of the events of Franny’s story as they contemplate their unconventional upbringing and education via their two oldest brothers Seymour and Buddy.
Both stories have strong themes of religion, especially how to reach a sort of nirvana, and also reflects on common themes in Salinger’s work include authenticity, creativity, and beauty.
I really enjoyed these stories and appreciated how it gave more insight to the family. It was obviously well written and while at times it felt a bit repetitive it was still engaging, funny, thoughtful and compelling enough to never get boring. ...more
I think James Baldwin is one of the most meticulous fiction writers I've ever read. When I read Giovanni's Room last year—a book I think could quite I think James Baldwin is one of the most meticulous fiction writers I've ever read. When I read Giovanni's Room last year—a book I think could quite possibly be one of the most perfectly written novels ever—I couldn't help but feel every word was chosen without error. The true is same here, though the story, for me, meandered and wandered a bit in ways that detracted a bit from my overall enjoyment. Nonetheless, this is a book you could (and maybe should) study. Thematically, technically, and emotionally this book is complex and layered. One reading might not be enough to grasp the genius of Baldwin in this book (and it's his debut!?). Some day I will return, and knowing what I know of it now, maybe uncovering even more to appreciate and perhaps love in this heavily autobiographical tale....more
Cassandra Edwards is a singular character; one of those voices that only comes around once in a while in literature. While this story is over 60 yearsCassandra Edwards is a singular character; one of those voices that only comes around once in a while in literature. While this story is over 60 years old now, it feels as relevant as ever. And it's delivered in a slim but punchy style that feels so fresh and exciting.
The story follows Cassandra, heading home from Berkeley to her family's ranch in the hill country outside Bakersfield, California. She's heading home to see her identical twin sister, Judith, be married to a man Cassandra has never met after 9 months of separation from her sister. This difficult period of separation has led Cassandra to question her very existence, and how the weekend plays out feels fully at her whim. Will she break up the wedding to secure her future with her other half? Or will she overcome her own obstacles to allow her sister her happy ending?
Baker is a quick and sharp writer. The dialogue in this is quippy and endearing; the characters speak with an intellectualism that sets them apart, adrift in their own world in a relatively rural area. It's nearly a one setting story, for the most part, and that isolation breeds anxiety like a pressure cooker. We, the readers, are waiting to see how the steam gets let out: either a slow exhale or an explosion.
I really enjoyed this reading experience. I was so surprised by the writing and how contemporary it felt, while still maintaining a sense of its time. The mid-century setting is appealing for its nostalgia, and yet the characters break that a bit with their existential dread.
If you like the trend of 'messy girl lit,' with characters who you can't help but love despite their poor decision making, this feels like it laid the groundwork for a lot of that. ...more
A fun continuation of the world of Cannery Row. Following the same characters about a decade later, this story echoes the plot of the first novel, witA fun continuation of the world of Cannery Row. Following the same characters about a decade later, this story echoes the plot of the first novel, with Mack and the boys trying to do something nice for Doc. We meet a new character, Suzy, who shakes things up. All in all, this was a sweet, simple story with some good writing and funny moments. I liked it but didn't love it compared to other Steinbeck books. The first volume works better as a standalone, though if you really love the characters this is a great addition to their world....more
Dick Dale is a painter from New York City on an excursion to the salt marshes of northern Massachusetts. After an unexpected delay and subsequent injuDick Dale is a painter from New York City on an excursion to the salt marshes of northern Massachusetts. After an unexpected delay and subsequent injury extends his stay, he finds respite in the home of the Owens family. His immediate kinship with the daughter, Doris, and striking resemblance to son Israel Jr who died in the Civil War brings a connection between this interloper and the family that will reveal itself in striking ways.
Originally published in 1885 to critical, but not commercial, acclaim, Sarah Orne Jewett's A Marsh Island examines regionalism, sexual identity, and national unification in a post-Civil War era through the lens of a pastoral novel. It's akin to a landscape painting come to life, in both descriptions of nature and the tranquility it imposes.
Don James McLaughlin has an excellent essay to start the novel (though it contains spoilers so I'd recommend reading it after you complete the story) that captures the nuances and explains the complexity of what the author does in this text.
I enjoyed reading this story as it sits outside of what I normally read. It has the melodrama of classic literature while bring a nuance and complexity that similar stories of its time wouldn't have. Her characters don't conform to your expected stereotypes—especially regarding gender expression and identity. Men are more emotional and 'feminine,' while women are at times the saviors in perilous situations. These are just two quick examples of the many ways Orne Jewett depicts characters in ways that conflict with the generalizations of her time.
Perhaps if I had read the essay first, despite its spoilers, I would have enjoyed my reading experience a bit more, only in that I would have understood in greater detail and been able to appreciate why this book was important more than I necessarily loved it. It's quite slow; the descriptions, while beautiful, do make the book drag a bit. Each chapter serves as a sort of vignette and it's not until nearly 2/3 of the way into the book that any sort of plot is evident. It's more of a 'fish out of water' story where Dick's experiences and observations are juxtaposed with that of his host family.
All in all, though, I appreciated this book and would be interesting in reading more of her short fiction. She does such a great job at setting a scene and is very witty at times. Her cheekiness reminds me of Jane Austen's observational prowess, and the locales give off a sort of Willa Cather vibe. If either of those comparisons intrigue you, I'd recommend picking this up when it comes out in June 2023.
Thanks to the publisher for providing an early copy via Netgalley....more
Very rarely do I start a book not really enjoying it and then finish it absolutely loving it. But that was my experience with The Grapes of Wrath, a sVery rarely do I start a book not really enjoying it and then finish it absolutely loving it. But that was my experience with The Grapes of Wrath, a seminal piece of American literature.
I never doubt Steinbeck, because he's truly a master of his craft and one of my favorite authors ever. However, the slow beginning of this story and the way it alternates chapters was difficult for me to really connect.
But as time goes on, the Joad family becomes like your own kin. I couldn't help but care deeply about them and their struggles. Steinbeck masterfully develops these characters over 450 pages and by the end you are left completely moved by their story.
Of course Steinbeck is a master of setting the scene. His descriptions of the landscape the Joads travel through, the houses and tent camps they live in, and all the characters they meet along the way--everything is so vividly portrayed on the page.
I'm so happy I finally read this one! That final chapter is something I won't stop thinking about for a long time and will likely never forget. The novel builds to a powerful conclusion that will leave you stunned and in awe of Steinbeck's skills....more
Is *this* the defining novel of 20th century American literature!?! Academia, world wars, love affairs, the Midwest. It has it all and is so eloquentlIs *this* the defining novel of 20th century American literature!?! Academia, world wars, love affairs, the Midwest. It has it all and is so eloquently written.
Don’t underestimate this one. The last chapter will sneak up and rip the carpet out from under you.
William Stoner is no one special. But John Williams imbues him with so much character. He leaps off the page.
I marked up a lot of passages of this book too which is always nice. So many beautiful quotes I might transcribe in here later (mostly for my own memory).
If you haven’t read this cult classic yet, don’t wait! ...more
What can I say about Of Mice and Men that hasn't been said before? Probably nothing. But I can say that I'm glad I was not assigned this in high schooWhat can I say about Of Mice and Men that hasn't been said before? Probably nothing. But I can say that I'm glad I was not assigned this in high school like so many. I'm glad I waited to read this as an adult to not only better appreciate the technical aspects (the writing, descriptions, themes, characterizations) but also understand more deeply the themes it explores. It's deceptively simple and utterly profound, and it has convinced me that Steinbeck is definitely one of my favorite authors....more
2o23 review: This was as good as I remember it being! I love Celie as a character so much and her story arc is incredibly moving. I do think the Nettie2o23 review: This was as good as I remember it being! I love Celie as a character so much and her story arc is incredibly moving. I do think the Nettie letters slow the pace of the story down quite a bit and take away some of the power of Celie's story, but I understand what Alice Walker was doing with that section. Regardless, I love the ending and can't wait to see the movie musical adaptation soon! In my 2018 review I said I need to watch the original movie as well, which I sadly never did. Oops.
2018 review: This was fantastic. I am so glad I finally read it after having known about it for so long and never having been assigned it in school. It’s beautifully written. Celie’s voice is so strong and all of the characters are well developed. I especially loved Shug and Sofia. And now I’ve got to see the film....more
I'm glad I finally got around to reading more Toni Morrison. I really enjoy her writing style, but I've yet to find a book of hers that I found compelI'm glad I finally got around to reading more Toni Morrison. I really enjoy her writing style, but I've yet to find a book of hers that I found compelling, plot-wise. This one was beautifully told but hard to connect with. I'll definitely still give her more chances though because she's a true poet....more
I never read Anne's story when I was younger, so when I heard that Rachel McAdams was narrating the first in the series I knew I had to give it a go. I never read Anne's story when I was younger, so when I heard that Rachel McAdams was narrating the first in the series I knew I had to give it a go. I'm a sucker for a celebrity-narrated audiobook (if you haven't checked out Maggie Gyllenhaal's reading of The Bell Jar, do that now!).
It's wonderful to read a story that, for the most part, is extremely uplifting. There's hardly anything truly terrible that happens in this story, and that's quite refreshing. Granted, it is a children's novel and from the early 1900's—so it has that moralistic quality to it wherein each incident Anne undergoes resolves itself with a lesson learned. But it was delightful, and Anne's optimism is contagious. Rachel McAdams also does a great job at encapsulating that attitude; I felt like I could hear her smile.
If, like me, you've never given Anne's story a chance, I can highly recommend the audiobook route. And I'm definitely going to continue listening to this series, especially when I'm in need of a pick-me-up....more
3.5 stars I didn't have many expectations for this book, and I knew very little about it before going into it aside from the eponymous time machine. B3.5 stars I didn't have many expectations for this book, and I knew very little about it before going into it aside from the eponymous time machine. But I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by it. Recognizing that it ultimately focuses very little on the machine itself and much more on the time traveler's adventure into the future & the cautionary tale that unfolds due to his findings makes this book a more enjoyable experience. It follows that classic 'unnamed narrator recounting story of other unnamed character' structure, even with a bit of story within a story (a la Frankenstein). Clearly H.G. Wells had an agenda behind this book, as it seems to be a response to Britain's cultural and economic situation in the late 19th century. Nevertheless, it was a fun and entertaining read, and the audiobook--narrated by Sir Derek Jacobi--was excellent. ...more
Unlike a lot of people, I wasn't required to read The Bell Jar in school. It's one of the most influential and recognizable novels of modern American Unlike a lot of people, I wasn't required to read The Bell Jar in school. It's one of the most influential and recognizable novels of modern American literature, and so I figured it was about time I read it. And I loved it.
Now, I might be a bit in love with it mostly because I listened to the audiobook narrated by the fantastic Maggie Gyllenhaal. (Seriously, her voice is perfect for Esther's dark & alluring narrative). Regardless of Gyllenhaal's narrative prowess, I thought the story was engaging and compelling in ways I didn't expect.
I knew it was going to be depressing, dealing with a young girl's mental breakdown. However, the writing was so lush—reminiscent of Fitzgerald's in Gatsby—and poetic (no surprise since Plath was also a poet). And the story, while listless, never lacked in interesting moments. Esther sort of flits from locale to locale and we get to see inside her head through it all. I loved her wry and judgmental voice. She's not really likeable, but you're able to sympathize her, maybe because she's so manipulative. Either way, I was a big fan of this one. I'd love to read it in print form to see how my experience differs from listening to it. But if you're curious about this one like I was, I can highly, highly recommend it on audio....more
2.5 stars This book is loved by so many people that I think I expected too much from it. It's a good coming-of-age story that follows Francie Nolan as2.5 stars This book is loved by so many people that I think I expected too much from it. It's a good coming-of-age story that follows Francie Nolan as she grows up in Brooklyn during the early 1900's. I think most of the novelty of the story is how different our world is 100 years later. The writing didn't really do much for me—so much of it felt like things happening to Francie as opposed to her actually doing things. And that held me at a distance. I felt like Betty Smith was just telling me all of it but not showing it to me. Also knowing that a lot of this is based on the author's life, I would've almost rather read a memoir version of this, similar to Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes. Overall it was an okay story that I'm SO glad to have finally read (it was on my shelf for years), but it's not one I connected to as strongly as so many others. ...more
Funny and wonderfully written. Steinbeck captures the spiritedness of his characters so well. And he describes the landscape beautifully. I'm glad I fFunny and wonderfully written. Steinbeck captures the spiritedness of his characters so well. And he describes the landscape beautifully. I'm glad I finally got around to reading this one!...more
I loved this! I don't really know what else to say. Absolutely will read this again someday. Steinbeck is so honest and contemplative and sna4.5 stars
I loved this! I don't really know what else to say. Absolutely will read this again someday. Steinbeck is so honest and contemplative and snarky! But he's also sensitive and empathetic. He leaves you with more questions than answers in the most satisfactory way.
If you like road trip stories and travelogues, this is the perfect combination! Highly recommend. ...more
I first read this book my freshman year of high school, at the age of 14 or 15. And now, here I am, at 22 and graduating from college reading it for tI first read this book my freshman year of high school, at the age of 14 or 15. And now, here I am, at 22 and graduating from college reading it for the second time. It's incredible how much difference those 8 years of school have on one's perspective. Though I remembered a lot of the plot from this book, as it's quite memorable and I have seen the film a time or two, there were also a lot of elements, especially characterization, that I see in a totally different light.
To me, upon a second reading, this book is really about Jem. The book starts and ends talking about Jem. He undergoes so much change in this story, and while Scout is a great narrator and Atticus is an amazing father figure, Jem is the one that seems to be at the center of what Lee is getting at in this novel. Jem, to me, is the greatest character of them all.
On the other hand, Atticus Finch has always been a character that I've idealized and even slightly idolized. I remember him being so full of wisdom and such an amazing father, which he is. But upon re-reading this book, I have come to realize Atticus is very one-note. Yes, he is absolutely brilliant and kind, and if we had more people like him in the world it would be a better place. But in terms of a character, he is quite flat. I don't mean that negatively, but only to point out that his main function in the novel, for me, is to be a paragon of a wise person. He opposes racism tactfully and spiritedly. And he stands up for his beliefs. But other than that, his role as a character seems more as a function to serve Jem and Scout's growth as humans. It doesn't mean I love him any less; I just found it interesting to note how I see him differently now than I did when I was younger.
I also forgot how few pages the whole trial takes up of the book. For obvious reason, that is always what I think of when I hear To Kill a Mockingbird. But in reality, it's only maybe 10% of the story. So much of TKAM is about Scout and Jem's antics and life in Maycomb. I loved revisiting their lives and the lives of all their neighbors.
I can't give this less than 5 stars because of how amazing it is in so many ways: characters, writing, storyline, and themes. It's an important American story, and I am extremely curious to see how the sequel coming out this summer deals with the characters! ...more
Loading...
