When I opened “Blueeyedboy” by Joanne Harris I expected something delicious, like her “Chocolat” or “Blackberry Wine”. I expected to be carried away from the first page, as Harris knows how to capture the reader without giving him a chance to escape her magic. But I wasn’t. Not at once, far from it!
“Blueeyedboy” does not belong to those of her books which one reads on effortlessly, reveling in a skillful plot and admirable language. This one at the beginning made a laborious sort of reading, as if you were struggling through the jungle. You can’t understand who’s who and most ideas sound too bizarre and creepy to you. Oh, I forgot to say, the book is written in the form of Web Journal entries, posts to a website created by the main hero which he called badguysrock. The form seemed fascinating to me – a new existence (or rather development) of the epistolary genre.
“Blueeyedboy” does not belong to those of her books which one reads on effortlessly, reveling in a skillful plot and admirable language. This one at the beginning made a laborious sort of reading, as if you were struggling through the jungle. You can’t understand who’s who and most ideas sound too bizarre and creepy to you. Oh, I forgot to say, the book is written in the form of Web Journal entries, posts to a website created by the main hero which he called badguysrock. The form seemed fascinating to me – a new existence (or rather development) of the epistolary genre.
But gradually, as you plunge into reading, “Blueeyedboy” takes possession of your mind, you feel more and more unwilling to part with it. The author brilliantly manipulates your attention: when you finally seem to delineate the characters and connections, she turns everything upside down. Can you name a book where you have no idea who the main personage is? Up to the final part? Especially if he is the narrator! I can hardly remember another story with that amount of ambiguity and defeated expectancy.
I won’t dwell on the heroes or details of the plot (just one remark – it is EXTREMELY compelling). If I do, it’ll be as merciless as telling a detective reader who’s “done her in”. I mean, before he comes to dénouement. “Blueeyedboy” will sweep you away with its electric atmosphere, its striking synaesthetic associations, its dazzling blend of reality and virtuality. Don’t take my word for it? Want a bet?
I won’t dwell on the heroes or details of the plot (just one remark – it is EXTREMELY compelling). If I do, it’ll be as merciless as telling a detective reader who’s “done her in”. I mean, before he comes to dénouement. “Blueeyedboy” will sweep you away with its electric atmosphere, its striking synaesthetic associations, its dazzling blend of reality and virtuality. Don’t take my word for it? Want a bet?
Have you read anything to recommend – to read or never touch?
Books I've read recently (reading right now):
ОтветитьУдалить1. "Princesses forgotten and unknown" ( by Philippe Lechermeier with gorgeous illustrations by Rebecca Dautremer)
2. "Psmith Journalist" (by P.G. Wodehouse)
3. " Paddington at the Palace", "Paddington at Home" and some other stories about small bear from Chili (by Michael Bond)
4. "History of Heart in World Culture" (by Ole M. Hoystad).
#1 Has great pictures and a very fresh, unusual approach to women psycological types. Ironic, smart, great translation of princesses' names (Невезунда фон Стресс, Альфавит, Болтилия, Урагаш, Нудильда). And, once again, wonderful pictures. A good book for those who want to relax and escape from routine.
#2 is "must read " and "must have" for Wodehouse fans and for those who appreciate English humour. One of the best books about Psmith. Love it!
#3. Everyone knows Winnie the Pooh, but do you know his "collegue" Paddington? Read one of many stories about his adventures and you'll fall in love with this charming bear! A good book for children and girls who like funny, clumsy and naive bears.
#4. Have read half of the book and feel rather disappointed. Some parts and chapters are worth reading, others are so boring I can't figure what I'm reading about, because I get lost in Hoystad's thoughts. The translation is not perfect, and typos are "killing me" (something like "по-этому" and the absence of gaps in some places make me feel furious). So, an interesting title, a bunch of curious facts and... that's it. Not proud of this perchase. On the other hand, the half of the book is left, who knows...
Sorry for typos in my text, if there are any. The comment is a longish one :)
Curious choice, princess-story-lover! It took me some time to realize in what language you were reading some of them. As for № 4, I guess, it has to do with a popular genre – (non)fiction. This tendency to include traces of non-fiction into the narration has become quite an obsession recently. With free access to all sorts of info it looks a snap to write a book nowadays: make a compilation of precedent texts, add sort of a plotline and here you are!
ОтветитьУдалитьI've read it at last! Blue Eyed Boy was smth I wasn't prepared for. Murders' descriptions with nasty details,an eerie atmosphere... sometimes you have a feeling that the murderer is right behind you! And the end of the story is absolutely unpredictable. First I was shocked, as the books I've read before were full of magic and somehow optimistic (Chocolat, Blackberry Wine and even Five Quarters...to some extend), but then I found "Gentlemen and Players" which was written just before "Blue Eyed Boy" and I got it. The same tense atmosphere, twisted plot, several deaths... It seems that the author of "tasty" novels decided to give it up. I feel betrayed! Posted the reviews of both books on my blog.
ОтветитьУдалитьFinally there’s someone to share it with! It certainly differs from her previous books. On her website the author says she sort of got hooked on online interaction, I guess the form she chose imposed on the atmosphere. But why should you feel betrayed? Harris is probably past the stage of stories that taste like rare wine. Françoise Sagan made the same evolution, don’t you think? If you compare “Bonjour tristesse“ with her late novels you would hardly recognize her style.
ОтветитьУдалитьI want to say some words about my favourite book. I know that I've already told you about it, but I can discuss this book forever and ever! It was written by Thomas Hardy and is entitled "Tess of d'Urbervilles". The story of Tess Durbeyfield, a low-born country girl whose family find they have noble connections. It is a romantic story, full of different unpredictable events. I want to confess that sometimes it was really very hard to foresee the events. During the book, the author describes the so-called 'love triangle' between Tess, Angel and Alec. Their relationships were so intriguing that's why the ending of the book is so tempting.
ОтветитьУдалитьTo be quite frank, this book is difficult to read because of the author's language. But nevertheless he describes in details the atmosphere, the time and main characters and you feel as if you see it with your own eyes. For example, "The village of Marlott lay amid the north-eastern undulations of the beautiful Vale of Blakemore, or Blackmoor, aforesaid, an engirdled and secluded region, for the most part untrodden as yet by tourist or landscape-painter, though within a four hours' journey from London.It is a vale whose acquaintance is best made by viewing it from the summits of the hills that surround it-except perhaps during the droughts of summer. An unguided ramble into its recesses in bad weather is apt to engender dissatisfaction with its narrow, tortuous, and miry ways".
Tess of the d’Urbervilles presents a complex picture of the importance of social class in nineteenth-century England and this fact explains reasons of her hard life.
The author also touches upon a problem of men's domination. When reading the book I saw that women do not have rights, in their society all women depended on men.
So, I can make a conclusion that sometimes your social status can play a very great role in your life. "Sir John d'Urberville-that's who I am," continued the prostrate man. "That is if knights were baronets-which they be. 'Tis recorded in history all about me."
I want to conclude by saying that even though the story took place many years ago, you can get the idea that parts of it could happen today. You will definitely like the book and won't regret!!!
(Sasha Kalinina)
Now I want to say some words about my favourite book, which imprinted in my soul.This book is "The picture of Dorian Grey" written by Oskar Wilde.You absolutely must read this book! It is absolutely absorbing; the writing is beautiful, as you might expect.I'd like to add that Wild's language is very simple, and there is not difficulties to read.
ОтветитьУдалитьIn the novel discusses life and the many different ways to live it. Wilde's description of beauty, the soul, morality and society makes you think; isn't that wonderful?Of course I think yes.You can understand from the title that this book is about a beautiful, charming Dorian Grey.Basil Hallward painted a portrait of his dearest friend Dorian Gray he 'put too much of himself into this painting' and he knew it was his greatest work of art.When Dorian saw it for the first time he was charmed with it and realised that all of the youth and beauty that he saw in the portrait wouldn't change with time, but he would .And he made a wish to be young and beauty all time and the portrait should be the one to change over time.For him "there is nothing in the world as important as youth". Dorian got his wish and soon realised what a mistake he had made as he became more shallow,indifferent to other people and selfish. In the book we see terrible changing of one man.This was a very interesting read. I loved the idea for the book that the picture would show all the sins of Dorian while he would remain untouched by time. It was fascinating to watch Dorian change, at the beginning of the book he was young and innocent and everyone loved him. Through the influence of his friend Lord Henry Wotton and the effect of the picture hiding his sins, Dorian turns more and more into a pleasure seeking, selfish man .Oskar Wilde did a wonderful job of showing how other characters respond to him as he changed through the book. Lord Henry Wotton was very witty, with his help we understood Dorian's behaviour more and more.I also really liked Basil, he was the one who loved Dorian the most for his innocence and goodness at the beginning and he was the only one who made an effort to get him to change his evil ways.I was surprised with how the book ended, but it gave a good example. It was the perfect ending.We saw a "face without a heart" which changed complettly, because Dorian was tempted.I consider we must understand that nothing can exist forever in due course everithing dies.And this novel is very instructive with deep meaning.(Makarova K)
Why I adore Oscar Wild is that his way of writing. His talent is brilliant. To read his stories is a great pleasure. His pieces of work are always absorbing, disturbing, gripping, but every time wise. I admire his brilliant skill in word's playing. There is the only word, which can describe his stories – unputdownable. Though I'm not an avid reader, but his books I can't put aside.
ОтветитьУдалитьFrankly speaking, it is impossible to choose one of the best stories from the best. But never the less, let me try.
The most delightful story is "A Devoted Friend". Through simple personages, Oscar Wild communicates such an actual problem. There two main heroes in the story: The story tells us about two friends, two contrary characters. The first is venal, another is devoted. During the whole story we can see two different sides of friendship. The author touches upon several problems, which were, are and will be actual all the time. Unfortunately, good, kind people are often punished for their responsiveness, lack of ability to recognize spurious friendship. And, the other man, the miller eve after his devoted friend's death didn't understand his misfeature, that his outrageous lie and profit had ruined his friend's life.
If you have no idea what to read, take the book of Oscar Wild's short stories. There would not be limit for your enjoyment, you are sure not to regret. (Kolobova.K)
Zodiac
ОтветитьУдалитьby Robert Graysmith
Review by Morgunov Ilya
This is my first book review and I suppose you, my dear reader, won’t judge me very strictly. The book I’d like to describe was based on the true events happened in between 1969 and 1980. This literary work shows us the investigation of the case of the serial killer called the Zodiac. Robert Graysmith, the author of the book, was himself involved in the Zodiac case because he worked as a political cartoonist for the San Francisco Chronicle in 1969 when the Zodiac Killer case came to light. The main feature of the killer was that he wrote letters to different newspapers after killing his victims and sent different cyphers to editorial offices. Graysmith tried to decode the letters written by the killer. What’s more, Graysmith became obsessed with the case over the next thirteen years and then wrote, in my opinion, one of the most gripping books ever!
First of all, I’d like to give you some reasons why I like this piece of art. The main feature of the book is the mystery of the main villain. I always wanted find out the clue to the puzzle of the Zodiac killer. I wanted to know his name. His secret haunted me for a long time. This book didn’t give me the answer but it made me closer to the answer. You see, the book can give you the time line and how the crimes of the serial killer were investigated, how the things happened (the book even contains reprints of the letters that the Zodiac sent to the police and newspapers). Frankly speaking, it is the second reason why I enjoyed this book!
Except for "Zodiac" himself, the author knows more about the case than anyone. Sometimes Graysmith gives too many details but nevertheless, it makes the book more interesting. These facts and details keep the reader in sustain all the time. It took me one evening to read the half of the book (In English, of course) and it impressed me so much that I swinged round all the time when I heard some rustle or even a silent noise (just imagine, how I was afraid of the Zodiac!). When reading “Zodiac’’, I projected myself as a true detective. I compared the complicated facts, thought over the words of the witnesses and sought for the murderer. It absorbed me completely!
To conclude my review, I’d like to say that it was really interesting to read about America’s one of the most mysterious undetected crimes. This book is really worth of attention and the film based on it is gripping as well!
P.S. I would recommend you not to read this book at night so as to avoid persecution mania!
Morgunov Ilya (401A)
You say it makes you creepy? Well, may be. But “one of the most gripping books ever”??? Have you read Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express”? Or “Death on the Nile”? Or “Evil Under the Sun”?
УдалитьYou know, the fact that the book was based on true events doubled the effect. When I realized that the Zodiac kept the citizens of San-Francisco in fear for ten years, I was shocked!
ОтветитьУдалитьBut you know, my experience of a reader is far from being broad.
By the way, thank you for your list of gripping books) I hope they'll absorb me)))
An American Tragedy
ОтветитьУдалитьby Theodore Dreiser
Review by Tsiganov Ivan
To begin with I should say that the story I’m going to present is about a young guy, Clyde Griffiths, whose life was rather adventurous and full of different events. According to the title you can say that the story takes place in America. And it’s clear that something tragic must happen in the story. Later I’ll tell you if that is really so.
Clyde Griffiths is a son of poor Protestants who move from city to city. Clyde grows up desiring money, fashionable clothes, pretty women, recognition, and admission to the social circles of the high. The novel traces his movements as he seeks his dreams—and ends up in a nightmare. Practically the whole story develops around him.
Clyde Griffiths was raised by poor and devoutly religious parents who forced him to participate in their street missionary work. His troubles began when he took a job as a bellboy at a local hotel because the boys he met are much more sophisticated than he, and they introduced Clyde to the world of alcohol and prostitution. That was really the problem because he was about to start a new life but those boys prevented him from doing it.
Just fancy they committed crime and Clyde tried to escape and he managed to do it. When in New York he met Samuel Griffiths his wealthy uncle. He gave Clyde a job in his factory in eastern New York. I liked that character most of all because, I think, he was generous, kindhearted and a little more trustful than he should be.
But the most impressive event that imprinted in my mind is the way he killed Roberta Alden, a poor and innocent farm girl working under his supervision at the factory. He fell in love with her but, besides he had a lover, Sondra Finchley, the daughter of a wealthy Lycurgus man and a family friend of his uncle's. You can’t imagine what he had done to conceal the pregnancy of Roberta. He drowned her because he wanted to stay with Sondra Finchley.
This story impressed me most of all because it’s touching, striking, intriguing. I advise you to read it, you won’t be left indifferent. When I read it I felt sympathy for a poor Roberta but hatred for Clyde. You see I was sure he would go straight but the result was not the one I expected. (Tsiganov Ivan 401e).
Thanks for advice, but I can’t follow it, as I’ve read the novel! And those who haven’t, do you think they will after reading your review? Should the review let the cat out of the bag and open the core events? And have you read attentively the “Blue Eyed Boy” review??????
УдалитьWhat I like most of all is the feeling of defeated expectancy. When you are reading book, I believe almost everyone has some thoughts concerning the end of the story. So when you think that you have unraveled the plot, the writer suddenly shocks you and by that manipulates your attention. After that sort of books I have some kind of satisfaction, although the writer has won in this game of expectancies. Unpredictable plot and end, these are those things, which can successfully fascinate the reader.
ОтветитьУдалитьAs for me, I’d like to share with you the book, which has kept in suspense readers all over the world, this is «Harry Potter» by J. K. Rowling.
My story of reading «Harry Potter» has something to do with destiny. When I was about six years, my mother insisted on my reading it, but because of my childish inherent stubbornness I was strongly against it. Some years later I suddenly wished to read this book. Now I'm fascinated by it! It’s part of your childhood and I’m not an exception.
You know Harry Potter and I strongly believe that this book is worth reading. Just because very soon you can probably find yourself reading it at the kitchen table, while getting to work, to school or university and of course before going to bed. This book can be dangerous because of its ability to carry you away from the ordinary life, but you should risk it!
At first sight, the plot is quite simple. Being nobody, a boy suddenly becomes very popular. But in fact it is a novel with lots of kindness, adventures, courage and hatred which will be defeated by love. By the way, I noticed that love is following through seven books and becomes the main idea of victory over evil.
I’d like to recommend this book because it contains lots of amazing things of Wizard World. For example such game as Quidditch which is like soccer in the muggle (those who can’t do magic) world. There are four balls, seven players and three rings on each side. Except such an interesting kind of game, I wish you to know more about Hogwarts itself. Just imagine, «there are a hundred and forty-two staircases: wide, sweeping ones; narrow, rickety ones; some that led somewhere different on a Friday; some with a vanishing step halfway up that you had to remember to jump». Moreover «there were doors that wouldn't open unless you asked politely, or tickled them in exactly the right place, and doors that weren't really doors at all, but solid walls just pretending». More than that, as everything seemed to move around a lot, it was next to impossible to remember where anything was. Another special feature of the magic world is that «the people in the portraits kept going to visit each other». Drawn people are able to leave their pictures and appear wherever they want! It’s absolutely unbelievable, don’t you think? That way, you can see Hogwarts is definitely a mysterious place, where everyone would find it interesting to wander. I won’t tell you more, leaving a chance for you to read about those strange things Hogwarts is full of.
It’s true that sometimes people are just tired from life or some routine and they are in need to diversify something. If you have this dispiriting feeling, take this book and let another world entice you away. Owing to J. K. Rowling you can feel like one of the students in this Wizard World.
I’d like to say «tastes differ», but if you asked me if this book is worth reading, I would answer without any hesitation «just try», cunningly smiling.
I've always been sure that books making us to bend every effort to reveal the plot are worth reading, because they are likely to conceal something important in the end.And of course you will get a great pleasure after connecting all the threads of a story.
ОтветитьУдалитьBut sometimes even when you understand who is who from the very beginning of the book, when everything seems to be clear, an author can surprise you.
So, I want to tell you why (not) read Tess of the D’Urbervilles.
First of all I must confess that this novel is the hardest one I’ve ever read in my life. The reason is not the language of the writer, no, on the contrary it seems that the words are in their right places, so it is really easy to understand the writer’s thoughts, it is the plot of the book that keeps you from going on reading. And if you are a young sensitive girl, please, think it over if you really want to read it.
In the centre of the narration is a pure young girl Tess. Her fate has prepared for her a lot of challenges and sorrows. This novel isn’t about love, I think, but about a search for love. There are two men who influenced Tess’s life. To begin with, she was a country girl from a poor family, but she had noble forefathers. Because of being in need she was sent to ask the relatives (as it appeared false relatives) for help. There she had a fatal meeting with Alec D’Urberville. Tess worked at his mother’s home. He tried to make court to her, but she stepped aside. Finally, he used rough force to take what he wanted. Tess left the house and than it appeared that she would have a child, who would die in his babyhood.
Do you think it’s the end? Oh, sorry to say, it’s just the beginning… After that she left her parents and her village because everyone knew about her sin. She went to work in another countryside. There she met a young man whose name was Angel. They fell in love and during about 100 pages the author convinces the reader that their love would come over all troubles and would forgive the past. But then you will be disappointed, because it’s not exactly so. The fact is that the plot of the story will keep you in suspense till the end, and even after finishing.
What is really interesting to point out is that it’s difficult to define who is guilty or who is a good or bad character. Do you think Tess is a good character? But she killed a man (yes, you’re sure to be shocked). Do you think Alec is absolutely bad? But he needed only Tess and her love, and tried to help her in his own way, even when he abused her he said to Tess that she should only drop a letter if she were in trouble and he would give her everything she needs. Do you think Angel is an angel? I don’t think so, he blames Tess but wasn’t an ideal too, he swears in his love, but leaves her.
This book is full of things that have to be thought over. I’m deeply impressed by this work. Will you be determined to read it?
To Алина Тимофеева: Frankly, I’ve never been HP’s fan, but I’ve always appreciated Rowling’s gift. You cannot win so many children’s hearts without it, can you? But you are probably right to recommend HP novels as a way to escape from routine.
ОтветитьУдалитьSaint-Exupéry has also created another world in “The Little Prince”, you know, which is more lucid and pure than that of HP. That’s what I believe, without meaning to impose my opinion on you.
To Анна Бондарева: Unexpected interpretation! To think twice before reading “if you are a young sensitive girl” sounds remarkable because the novel IS about a young sensitive girl! But I hope I see what you mean.
Your thoughts on who to blame, or rather if there is anyone to blame are most interesting. As one reader of this blog said, “We humans are not all black, we are grey, most of us”. Tip: next time do not let the cat out of the bag, do not tell what happens in the end!
Why not read The Great Gatsby by Scott Key Fitzgerald?
ОтветитьУдалитьIn this book we can find everything we want from an unhappy love to an eternal problem of social inequality.
Before I start I want to quote Oscar Wilde: “Those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril. Those who read the symbol do so at their peril”. (The Picture of Dorian Gray. The Preface)
My first impression.
When I’ve read about 60 pages I was really confused, from the point of storyline the novel seemed for me a little boring. But when Gatsby was introduced I was really absorbed in reading.
The Atmosphere.
The atmosphere of the novel is melodious and harmonious. It is Jazz, in fact. So if you are fan of vinyl records, Jazz bands, old school parties and drama. This novel is just for you.
The Storyline.
The narrator Nick fought in World War I; after the war, he went through a period of restlessness. He eventually decided to go east, to New York City, in order to learn the bond business. At the novel's outset, in the summer of 1922, Carraway has just arrived in New York and is living in a part of Long Island known as West Egg. Here he attended a dinner party. The party is given by Tom Buchanan and his wife, Daisy. Then he got acquainted with Gatsby.
Gatsby is an eccentric “Nouveau Riche” who likes organizing parties in his expensive house, but what a thing almost no one of a big crowd of guests knows him personally. Tell you the truth, I couldn’t imagine that things would turn out in such a tragic way. The story is quite unpredictable.
I think there is no use in retelling you everything. I am afraid of my scribble spoiling all the impression of the novel. But I still strongly recommend you to read the book, you want be disappointed. What is so dramatic about this Gatsby? Is this story belonged to “The rich also cry” category?
As for my quote in the beginning. This quote can be undoubtedly connected with any kind of art. Having read the novel I was depressed sorry to say. I can say that I tried to go beneath the surface. But I want share my thoughts because they are really pessimistic. So, let’s see what you can extract from the plot of the book after reading.
Why not read The Great Gatsby by Scott Key Fitzgerald?
ОтветитьУдалитьIn this book we can find everything we want from an unhappy love to an eternal problem of social inequality.
Before I start I want to quote Oscar Wilde: “Those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril. Those who read the symbol do so at their peril”. (The Picture of Dorian Gray. The Preface)
My first impression.
When I’ve read about 60 pages I was really confused, from the point of storyline the novel seemed for me a little boring. But when Gatsby was introduced I was really absorbed in reading.
The Atmosphere.
The atmosphere of the novel is melodious and harmonious. It is Jazz, in fact. So if you are fan of vinyl records, Jazz bands, old school parties and drama. This novel is just for you.
The Storyline.
The narrator Nick fought in World War I; after the war, he went through a period of restlessness. He eventually decided to go east, to New York City, in order to learn the bond business. At the novel's outset, in the summer of 1922, Carraway has just arrived in New York and is living in a part of Long Island known as West Egg. Here he attended a dinner party. The party is given by Tom Buchanan and his wife, Daisy. Then he got acquainted with Gatsby.
Gatsby is an eccentric “Nouveau Riche” who likes organizing parties in his expensive house, but what a thing almost no one of a big crowd of guests knows him personally. Tell you the truth, I couldn’t imagine that things would turn out in such a tragic way. The story is quite unpredictable.
I think there is no use in retelling you everything. I am afraid of my scribble spoiling all the impression of the novel. But I still strongly recommend you to read the book, you want be disappointed. What is so dramatic about this Gatsby? Is this story belonged to “The rich also cry” category?
As for my quote in the beginning. This quote can be undoubtedly connected with any kind of art. Having read the novel I was depressed sorry to say. I can say that I tried to go beneath the surface. But I want share my thoughts because they are really pessimistic. So, let’s see what you can extract from the plot of the book after reading.
It is a dramatic story and you sound as if you were truly impressed. What was it that left pessimistic feelings? Gatsby's fate? His love? The vanity of it all? What?
УдалитьI’d like to be laconic, in spite the fact, that the book I am to present counts about 1200 pages.
ОтветитьУдалитьThe strength of this book is not in its story telling, though a huge Tolkien fan I do not regard him as the best story teller. The genius of Tolkien is in the detail of his world, a detail no author I have read is yet to emulate. When reading the Lord of the Rings you feel as if every place, event or person has a history behind it/them, and with Tolkien it probably does, in fact if you read more Tolkien you will only be amazed at how much depth there is Ea (the world Middle-earth is just a small part of). The Lord of the Rings has influenced practically every epic fantasy book/series ever since its publication and it's easy to see why, examples are easy. Tolkien was without doubt the best fantasy world builder who has ever lived with the beautiful descriptions of the Glittering Caves and the following language of the Elves. It is the perfect book for anyone wishing to become lost in an entirely different world which you will almost believe exists.
This book is, and I can't stress enough, the greatest piece of literature of all of time. If you think otherwise, then you must be a Harry Potter fan =). Harry Potter is great, but the Lord of the Rings is superior to all fantasy novels. Trying to surpass its legendary greatness is like trying to climb the Misty Mountains without limbs.
I hope, I’ve laid enough stones on the scale “Ok, I’ll try reading this”. Good luck to your travelling across the expanses of Middle-earth.
“Of human Bondage”
ОтветитьУдалитьby Somerset Maugham
Review by Klyuchnikova Ilona
“But on the whole the impression was neither of tragedy nor of comedy. There was no describing it. It was manifold and various; there were tears and laughter, happiness and woe; it was tedious and interesting and indifferent; it was as you saw it: it was tumultuous and passionate; it was grave; it was sad and comic; it was trivial; it was simple and complex; joy was there and despair; the love of mothers for their children, and of men for women; lust trailed itself through the rooms with leaden feet, punishing the guilty and the innocent, helpless wives and wretched children; drink seized men and women and cost its inevitable price; death sighed in these rooms; and the beginning of life, filling some poor girl with terror and shame, was diagnosed there. There was neither good nor bad there. There were just facts. It was life.”
To begin with, I would like to mention that the novel is considered to be one of Maugham’s masterpieces, it has been read by millions of people and I deeply believe that the amount of those who also will make their minds to start reading such a book will be not less. Frankly speaking, the novel does not abound any eccentric and fictional events. This is a book about life, about how, where and when each of us reveals the true meaning and beauty of life. Moreover, the novel is autobiographical in nature that makes it more realistic and more appealing for readers. In the quote which I have presented above you might notice that reading Of Human Bondage you will have a chance to find all kinds of human feelings starting from sorrow ending with love. I suppose that everyone can remember that moment in life when he\she was in similar situations as the main character, because it is a collective image.
The fact was that the main character was an orphan and even disabled. At school, classmates laughed at his lameness so he grew self-conscious. Besides, he always felt slighted and sick enough of being at uncle and aunt's beck and call. While the uncle was doing his best for Philip become a priest, the nephew had given up that idea long ago. To tell you the truth, he was good at studies, but immensely wishing to be his own master he left the school for a trip to Germany, where studying foreign languages, Philip found a friend in the person of a young artist, who fascinated him and offered to try his hand in art. So... I can tell you the whole plot, but it will not be very interesting. I just only let myself mention that the art did not become a matter of his life as a religion, he found himself in another field. Several times he relived the death of relatives and friends, which was always been connected with the turning points in his own searches for the meaning of life. Furthermore, there were several intriguing love lines: there were women who loved him but he did not care much, there also were women whom he loved, but they were not interested in him. Generally, Philip had ups and downs, grief and joy.
In conclusion I would like to emphasize, that, without doubts, it is your choice to read or not to read, but I strongly recommend this novel, in particular, for youngsters, because it is too close to life that you may not imagine. This book will not teach you how to live, and heavens forbid, you will follow the example of this young man, but you will be able to reveal the essence of your actions and deeds. Personally I think, Maugham was a very fine psychologist who knew what strings of your soul he must touch to awaken you. As for me, I consider this book is a powerful novel and is well worth the effort.
I’d like to share my impressions about “The Sea House” by Esther Freud. I noticed that the book is full of symbols regarding relationships, war and genocide. I think that the Sea House is the main symbol of relationships, happiness and peace. Somehow it is connected with Max and Elsa’s life, their “love”. Why the word “love” is in inverted commas? To my mind, this so-called “love” was just passion which ended very quickly. Hardly had Klaus arrived when they felt that their passion has no future, it can’t be continued. Max just packed his things and went to Australia, leaving Elsa who was pregnant alone. The author illustrated the fragility of their relationships with the help of an episode when the Sea House was flooded. Personally I think that the destruction of the house meant that everything was over for them, for their love.
ОтветитьУдалитьThe other problem the author mentions is the problem of the War. Without doubt, it couldn’t help affecting Max’s life, his character, his fate…No one at that time could imagine that people can be treated so cruelly just because their features don’t match the standards of a “superior race”…that they can be killed for whispering at the neighbour’s ear when standing in a line before the German soldiers…
The sea also appears very often in the book. The author describes its vastness, its calmness…the sea is something which you can look at for an eternity, it helps you to forget about all your problems of everyday life. Entering the sea, you feel free, all difficulties seem so irrelevant…that was what Lily felt bathing with Ethel.
I won’t change my mind about Lily and Grae’s ‘love’. It’s just the same passion as it was between Max and Elsa. I think that Nick realized he should be more attentive and more careful to Lily. Reading the final chapter, I understood that Nick and Lily made it up, and I hope that afterwards their relations were more peaceful and strong.
To say the truth, I haven`t read Joanne Harris` books, and unfortunately “Blueeyedboy” doesn`t appeal to me, because I can hardly imagine that I will read the book being kept in ignorance of who is the narrator. But at the same time , I love reading books with the electric atmosphere. And I can always find it in the books of Daphne du Maurier, all her stories and novels are full of suspense which makes you read the book as soon as possible to find out that there is an open end...
ОтветитьУдалитьBut today I want to share my impressions about the book where we can hardly find the electric atmosphere or suspence, but which still makes us interested. This book is a good pattern of the the classical english literature , it is the first part of the " Forsyte Saga" - "The man of property",written by John Galsworthy.
The greatest thing about this novel is that the problems and questions mentioned in the book are still on the front burner. We can use the life experience of characters in our life.Despite the fact that nearly all the characters of the Saga are men of property, their experience teach us to love, to forgive and to appreciate special moments of life. All the Forsytes are able to love, but everyone has his own manner to do it, and all of them are able to forgive, no matter the cost, June is able to forgive Irene and Bosinney, old Jolyon is able to forgive his son , Soames is ready to pardon Irene, appreciating his love for her. But for me , old Jolyon is the most inspiring sample of love and forgiveness. As for devoting attention to special moments and little things, it`s John Galsworthy who pays our attention to the them, plunging us into the atmosphere of London, of rich houses, of the house on the Robin Hill,of the Indian Summer...
Another reason to love this novel is that it provokes discussions ,and discussing it the readers are not always agree with each other. We still argue about Irene, and because of that I can say that Irene is the most provoking character of the book. But despite everything I love her, she is my favourite.
Summing up my scrappy thoughts, I can make a conclusion that this book is well worth reading , as it is not an entertaining one, but it is a book which makes think and discuss, and it`s worth a lot.
I’ve recently read “Chocolat” by Joanne Harris and now I’m interested in “Blueeyedboy”, because I love books when you don’t know what to expect. This “electric atmosphere”, as you’ve said, extremely attracts me.
ОтветитьУдалитьWhat I would love to recommend is “The man of property” by John Galsworthy. It is the first part of the “Forsyte Saga”.
I think that this book is perfect for reading to feel the atmosphere of those times. When you understand who’s who in the novel (it’s hard to remember in the first chapter), you began to enjoy reading. All the characters are different and it’s so interesting to study the way they behave, their feelings in different moments. And what is more, every reader treats every character in its own way. People can’t stop discussing Irene and her story with Bosinney, the behavior of June and, of course, old Jolyon and the relationship between him and his son, young Jolyon.
As for me, I can’t ignore such a character like old Jolyon. This is an example of a person who knows how to love and to take care of close people. And the “Indian summer” confirms how adorable this character is.
All in all, I want to say that if somebody asks me read it or not, I’ll answer: ”Definitely YES!”. It is a classic literature; it makes us think and broadens the mind. If you read it, you’ll never be disappointed.
After your description of this book I am really interested in it! It is something new and unusual, with nontrivial plot. I think the next book I read will be “Blueeyedboy” by Joanne Harris.
ОтветитьУдалитьIn my turn I would like to share my impressions of a lovely and profound book "The Forsyte Saga". Unfortunately, I have read only one novel, " The man of property" . But I can assure it is full of emotions. There you can find boiling passions, rivalry, love, and most important - a sense of property. "The Forsyte Saga" presents us a story about a large powerful family. I would rather call this family a clan with its own customs, rules and traditions, but where prevail ambiguous relationships. Creating the image of "the mighty clan" the members of this family sometimes could not even establish connections with each other. Although each Forsyte tries to reject all human senses and qualities, he can't resist the temptations that touch every man's heart. Reading this book, you will argue or disagree with the characters,you will think, what would you do on their place. And mostly important, you will come to the conclusion that we should not force yourself to go against yourself.
This book is a vivid example of classical literature, and it will touch the soul of everyone.
There are many books which I can recommend and some that I can’t, but today I would like to talk about The Forsytes Saga, namely about the Indian Summer of a Forsyte (a short interlude after the Man of Property) by John Galsworthy. I've just read The Man of Property and this Interlude and I'm quite impressed. It’s a great pleasure to read Galsworthy, his language is gorgeous.
ОтветитьУдалитьThis tragic love story between Irene and poor young Bosinney was left behind. June had thrown off her melancholy and went for holidays in Spain with her farther and her step-mother. “Curiously perfect peace was left by their departure”:Old Jolyon was enjoying spending time in Robin Hill with his lovely granddaughter Holly and his old dog Balthasar. But everything had changed when he met Irene… This meeting near the old mossy log had transformed tranquil everyday life of Old Jolyon. This beautiful woman awoke in him the desire to live and became a really important part of his life.
This small but at the same time absorbing Interlude plunges us in the inner life of Old Jolyon and the further life of Irene. There we can see how has changed this man of property; there at the first time we can discover a real Irene – her character, her thoughts, her emotions; we can understand her feelings, share her grief. Frankly speaking, reading the Man of Property I hated Irene and could hardly realize who is she, only after this Indian Summer I could understand her…
To be honest, I’ve never heard about Joanne Harris. This author is completely unknown for me yet.
ОтветитьУдалитьBut the book, you recommend, sounds quite fascinating. Being in the dark during the whole time of reading is a quintessence of any book. And such a peculiar form of writing seems extremely catching. No doubt, I dare to read this “Blueeyedboy”.
Now it’s time to say everything about the book which I can’t bare at the very beginning, but which kept me toward to the end and at last enchanted me. “The man of property” is a great masterpiece representing strict customs of the well-off, their lives and preferences in this respect. In this book I found 3 types of love.
One- that can heal people’s heart,
another hurts people’s souls
and the last type of love manipulate their will.
The entire drama and genius plot in “The Forsyte Saga” absorbed me during the reading. It’s often happened to me to read a certain extract twice in order to think over every particle, to empathize for different characters.
The most impressing part is “Interlude: Indian summer”.
Events in the twilight of Old Jolion’s life become more vivid. There is no time left for him to make compromises with the circumstances. He enjoys the remainder of the days. And then, in peace he passed away...
Unfortunately, I still haven`t had the chance to make the acquaintance of Joanne Harris` books, but this post made me want to read them, ‘Blueeyedboy’ in particular, because I like this kind of books with unexpected denouement.
ОтветитьУдалитьWhile I was reading the post, two books came to my mind. The first one is ‘I am the Messenger’ by Markus Zusac, where one of the characters is unknown up to the end. Though this fact makes the plot more thrilling, it doesn`t complicate the understanding.
Another is ‘The Man of Property’ by John Galsworthy, because the first chapter can be compared with impenetrable jungle. There were so many names of the Forsyte family members, that I could hardly understand who was who, despite the fact that the first time I read it in Russian. But the more I read the more I memorized the names of characters and their family relationship. Moreover, the plot turned out to be absorbing.
In my opinion, this is the story about love. Irene`s love to Bossiny which becomes for her the meaning of life. Soames` love to his wife which can`t be separated from his sense of property. The Forsytes` support and unity which are also kinds of love. And certainly old Jolyon`s love to life, love to beauty of life which we can especially feel in the interlude ‘Indian Summer’.
Ptobably the atmosphere of this book is not so ‘electric’, but it`s not required there. I think ‘The Forsyte Saga’ should be read unhurriedly and thoughtfully to plunge in the atmosphere and to enjoy the language of Galsworthy which is terrific. It amazes me how the descriptions of nature all over the book accompany and intensify what is happening in the story.
What also impresses me is that readers can agree and disagree with characters` actions, but no one can stay indifferent. And for me, to touch every reader with the help of the words is the real proof of writer`s mastery.
The book I’ve recently read is “The Sea House” written by Esther Freud. Firstly, it was really hard to read the book, because of the way it is written. You see, there are two story lines taking place in different time periods and at the same time they are somehow linked. After realizing how to read this book I was captured at once, I couldn’t stop reading it. Besides, I can say, that thanks to this style of writing, we have an opportunity to get information about two time periods.
ОтветитьУдалитьMoreover, it was very exciting to watch how the relations between main characters were developing. I mean, whom would Lily finally chose? Would she find the House? Could she solve her problem? It’s also was intriguing for me to feel sorry for Max, I really want him to be with Elsa. Frankly speaking, I consider Mrs. Gertrude to be the most memorable character of the story, because she always tries to help everyone. No matter how tired she is, she can do everything in order to help someone.
Besides, this book was very informative, there are a lot of facts about War, about how cruel people were to Jews. It was really surprising for me to learn that noble, brave person can lose everything if he was a Jew. Beside he could undergo a real persecution. But nevertheless, I’m glad to learn that there were people who managed to survive.
To sum everything up, I can tell this book will suit everyone: it can teach you to help people, to feel a sense of compassion, to do your best while having an affair with somebody, not to lose faith in the face of difficulties and so and so for. Trust me, it is worth reading.
Do you have such things or places that are likely to be memorable for all your life? Do you have such places that are keeping the most precious moments of your life?
ОтветитьУдалитьWell, recently I’ve read “The Sea House”. Having started reading, I was snarled up. The form of writing is interesting, one chapter is for the past, another – for the present, they twist in that way, but, at first, it is difficult to realize what is the past, what is the present. Nevertheless, while reading, you begin to understand the plot in general, though it is separated.
The main characters of that book are Love, the Sea, the War and of course the Sea House.
There are different types of Love that are described in the book. There is love full of faithfulness and sincerity, which can forgive everything. For example, Klaus’ love to his wife, Elsa. Or another is a short-lived moment of love, which is some kind of a flash and not more. For a example, love between Max and Elsa, Grae and Lily’s love. But is it really love? How can love be so short? Moreover, why has Elsa stayed with Klaus? Why has Lily stayed with Nick. Probably, it is not love.
As for the Sea, it is the place where people can wash all their sufferings up, where they can forget about the problems and let themselves down. The Sea in “The Sea House” is always calm, patient and when Lily is near the sea, she always feels the same.
The fact is, the War occupies a special place in the book. I consider it to be the cruel part. You see, the author tells us about how cruel German soldiers were to Jews because of their belief. It is very difficult to survive when you always are to escape and some of the Jews have to convert in order to get a job and provide for their families. For example, Max’s father can’t but convert to become an officer. However, he regrets about it.
What is worth mentioning is the Sea House, which unite all the personages: Lily, Nick, Max, Elsa. The Sea House is the place, where the main personages are happy. Elsa and Max spend a wonderful time there, they are really delightful and cheerful. As for Lily, she wants to rent this house and invites Nick. They may spend their wonderful time living in this house. I suppose they are likely to remember this moment for all their life, like Elsa and Max have remembered the time of their life in the Sea House.
I heard a lot about the book "Blueeyedboy" by Joanne Harris, but your post definitely made me want to read it out of hand! Stories with unexpected and breathtaking contours make me live through together with the main characters.
ОтветитьУдалить"The Man of Property" by John Galsworthy is the kind of books which make you plunge into the thick of things, realize all the colors of relations and feelings and give you the ground for reflection.
I am sure that this book is quite suitable for reading at any conscious age, you will enjoy observing the behavior of each member of the Forsyte's family. The love triangle between Irene, Soames and Bosinney will teach you to understand the meaning of the words "love" and "property" and to see the distinction between them.
This book touched me deeply and deserved to be read it in adulthood!
So, I'm like everybody here not against reading something unusual and new, but I suppose I'll go carzy if I don't know the main character even after finishing it. Maybe, one day, I'll take this book, but not in the nearest future.
ОтветитьУдалитьAs for ‘The Man of Property’...this one is really bizarre for me. I hated this book up to its half because there weren't so much action, and I like action. I enjoy reading books where you can hardly follow its plot, you're here with your heros and after five minutes there. These realationships seemed to me a girlish stuff. He loves her, and she doesn't love him - billions of similar plots all over the world.
But as it often happens to me, I still managed to find an intresting branch and it was a case of Old and Young Jolyon. I was so excited about Old Jolyon's feelings to his son! I really wanted him to make it up with Young Jolyon and, thanks God, they did!
Time was passing, and I caught myself thinking that I was not so indifferent anymore about Soames and Irene. I found myself in Soames. And I really despised Irene who couldn't just be a proper wife, do her duties and devote some time to him. He didn't ask for something unreal. Just to be there with him. She was nothing but a pretty-pretty without him. And she was punished for her behavior and indifference, punished by Soames when he forced her to do "we all know what" and by the death of Bossiney. I can understand Soames and I forgive him, it was just an explosion of feelings and I suppose we can accepte this. At least, he was a right husband who loved his wife as it should be. Some people can argue that if he loved her, he ought to set her free. But I totally disagree! What's the point of loving a women but letting her go away? To be happy for her? Even imagining her with another man? Not on your life!
Not for a man of property.
I have read a lot of books, because I do love reading. I prefer reading something funny, because I don't like to spend the time weeping over the unfortunate hero. But the book of John Galsworthy is not one of them. "The Man of Property" has a philosophical sence, it makes us to think about our life. There are loads of reflections about the past, have you noticed? I think the author wants us to estimate all our mistakes, which we have made in our youth. The main thing is to realise our mistake and try to fix it. I want to take the exaple of old Jolyon. He is my favorite character in this book. He adressed to his past very often, and he undestood his mistake. He lost his son, but he missed him because he really loved him. But he had fixed his error, he, finally, undestood that son was his family, the man who did love him. ....Also, I can't undestand Irene. How could she do it? Soames loved her, she was his treasure, his ray of light in the darkness. Maybe, I should stand on her place in order to unestand why she had made this. Whatever we can't find out the real reason of her action, may be it was Bosinney, may be she couldn't live with Soames at all. She suffered too much, but I can't say that she had made the right thing. I wuldn't like to describe every character, because it will take a lot of time, I want to give my opinion about this book. It is terrific, you can not only to think about your own life and worry for heroes, but also this book is the best way to enrich your vocabulary. I am looking forward to waiting for summer to read the continuation of the story.
ОтветитьУдалитьTo tell the truth, I have almost the same feeling now. When I began to read «The Sea House» written by Esther Freud, I expected to fall into the bewitching story about two different personages, their lives and dreams... At first, my joy knew no bounds, and the reason of it was a really simple and conversational language of the book. I understood everything without the help of a dictionary! What`s more, having read several chapters, I understood who are the main characters and of course, reading the book, I expected that something would be drastically changed. I also expected to be carried away from the first passage, and I really was! But then, I felt a kind of disappointment. Instead of amazing story about two different universes, I was reading an ordinary story about two ordinary people, with their own fates and feelings. As it turned out, their stories weren`t related at all and to tell the truth, I didn`t understand why they were opposed to each other. Perhaps, my imagination spoiled the impression about the book. But emotions got less than had expected.
ОтветитьУдалитьHowever, there were some memorable moments and quotations in the book, «Have you ever said, I love you, and not meant it? No! Never! Came the most common reply. It reminded Lily how often she`d misused the words. But when she met Nick, everything was different, and she realized it was only when you actually did love someone the words were difficult to say », these words have a really deep meaning, and there are a lot of fragments which makes me think about our life. But unfortunately, on the whole, «The Sea House» did not impress me at all.
The book I’ve recently read is “The sea house” by Esther Freud. Without doubt, the plot is really thrilling and the book has an unexpected ending. There are two storylines connected with each other. You see, the young Lily comes in the sea house in search of answers about the famous architect Klaus Lehmann. But she does not only find interesting facts about his life, she also tries to find herself. Moreover, Lily has Lehmann’s letters. Reading them she can feel all his love and warm which he gives his wife. In that moment, the author gives us a great opportunity to see how they live in real. Of couse, these letters are very important for the story but they show only one side of Lehmann’s live. During the book together with the characters we can feel love and passion. While reading I’m worry for characters waiting their next steps.
ОтветитьУдалитьIn my opinion, this book tells us that the place sometimes can be so cozy for us that we really feel at home. I think Lily finds her “home” and she realizes that she is finally happy. After reading Charles de Lint’s, these worlds come to my mind: “Your home is where your heart is”.
I love the books, keeping some secrets practically up to the end. I think it gives the reader a lot of food for thoughts. That’s why I am really interested in Blueeyedboy.
ОтветитьУдалитьTalking about the “The Sea House” by Esther Freud, having started reading this book, I thought: “Mmm it is unusual! There are two story lines”. It was really strange to read two absolutely different stories, taking place in different time. But I liked it! I expected that in the end they would mix somehow, but for me they remained unconnected. One story is about Max, who comes to a little town to forget his problems, to get over his sister’s death. And another one is about a young girl – Lily, who arrives in order to write a biography about a famous architect. During the book lots of things happen to the main characters. And I really felt nervous for them. I approved and blamed their actions, and I always put me in their place and thought what I would do in that situation? This book is too close to the real life and I think it is a very good advantage of it. During the reading I was looking forward to something that really impressed me, but unfortunately I didn’t notice the climatic point. But nevertheless I was glad for Lily, who at last finds the answers, understands her life and at last hears the words, which she has dreamed to hear. As for Max, I was disappointed in him, I think if you love you must fight, you mustn’t leave your love under any circumstances.
All in all, I’d like to say that “The Sea House” didn’t live up to all my expectations. I don’t think that I will reread this book again, but I also don’t say that this book is really bad. I believe that each person will find something in it that makes him think about his life, his love and his dream.
I couldn’t imagine what "Blueeyedboy" was about. The name seemed to me quite innocent. Blue-eyed boy. Blue colour is the symbol of the sky and purity. However, from the first pages, it becomes clear that I have been mistaken about the content of the book. It really looks like a puzzle, which keeps in suspense until the last page. Emotions that remain after reading this book are a real internal discomfort and fear. Still, this is not a genre that I would like to read.
ОтветитьУдалить“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott is a book which I have recently read with great pleasure. This story is about the adventures of the four March sisters. The Civil War is in full swing, and the March sisters - Meg, the oldest, a romantic, the spirited and tomboyish Jo, sweet and loving Beth, and playful Amy - live in Concord, Massachusetts with their Marmee while their father is on the battlefield. The story is filled with adventure (both lived and imagined), heartbreak, and a deep sense of hope. “Little Women” reminded me that "sometimes when you dream, your dreams come true." I recommend this book for ladies of all ages. (Kseniya).
To me "Blueeyedboy" sounded bewildering at 1-st. As I read on I came to appreciate Harris’s new style; she might have been fed up with her own comforting stories. And this novel added to epistolary genre development, as well to detective.
УдалитьAnd “Little Women” makes such a nice kind of reading, you feel basked in that cosy ambience of their home! Do you remember how the girls warmed mom’s slippers by the fire waiting for her? I wish we could see this today.