I loved this book except the writing style was distracting - not Celie's style of writing/Georgia accent, but the letter format. The chapters were supposed to be letters from the sisters, but they'd be telling a story and switch to first person narrative for pages, but it would be a first person narrative from the perspective of someone else who had told them a story. It was confusing at times and their letters were not how people would actually write letters. If the author wants to tell a story in that way, then why do the letters at all?
Anyway, loved the story but was just distracted at times by the format and switching of narratives.
I'm amazed I even finished this book. It was entertaining at times, but the main character was insufferable. The story was more long-winded than it needed to be. I almost gave it 3 stars, but I have no desire to read the 2nd book in the trilogy, so I don't think it deserves that. I'm glad I borrowed this book from the library and didn't spend money on it.
This is an aptly named book. Her mother was a nightmare of a narcissist and sadly, she is better off without her. It was a very interesting look into the life of a child actor, and one who never even wanted that life. I'm really glad Jennette went through therapy and has made so much progress to heal from her mother's abuse. A compelling book for sure.
I listened to this book, which I feel like is the only proper way to do this one. It's very well narrated, though the book itself is not well written. At times it's just a weird stream of consciousness with cheesy “bumper stickers” and “inspirational” platitudes. It's trying to do much with those parts when really I just wanted to hear about his life. The parts when he's just telling funny stories about his life are the best parts and made me laugh out loud.
This book was gripping and I'm still digesting my thoughts and feelings. It was very well written and I think it's a story that will stick with me. I was already sympathetic to the plight of migrants and refugees, but this story really paints a vivid, realistic picture of what that journey can be like.
The author's writing style was distracting. She would have a line of dialogue followed by a paragraph of context (thoughts/emotions/etc), and then by the time the next person spoke I'd forgotten what they were responding to. Aside from that, the plot was predictable. I feel very “meh” about this book.
A disappointing book. There were quite a few typos that were distracting, but beyond that the main characters (the sisters) weren't very likeable and the supposedly smart characters would do dumb things. For example, deciding to take down the nazi flag from their home window as an act of defiance, which endangers the Jewish person they're harboring in their home. I spent much of the book annoyed, but I was invested enough to finish it. On the plus side, I like that the author tried to make the characters more complex, and somewhat more realistic as a result. Ultimately, I wouldn't recommend this book.
I changed my rating from 4 to 5 stars because I am still thinking about this book. It was really well written, hilarious, and insightful. I loved his perspective on how languages connect people and what it was like growing up under apartheid. It's a book I would definitely recommend, and it's a fun read despite some heavy topics.
I borrowed this from my library, but I decided to buy it because I know it's a book I'm going to want to go back to from time to time for quotes and inspiration. It was an interesting glimpse into 10 momentous days at the White House. It's a bit sad to read now considering the backwards steps our country has taken since then.
I put off reading this book for about 3 years because I thought it would be a depressing and difficult read. I was right, but the story is compelling and an important one to learn. I am happy for the author that she was able to heal through the writing process and that she continues to advocate for Cambodia.
Couldn't finish. While the premise sounds interesting to me, I tried to read this book several times and just couldn't. Judging by the other reviews, I'm glad to see I'm not alone or crazy. I normally give at least 2 stars if I didn't finish a book, to be fair to the parts I didn't read, but apparently much of the book has turned out to be fabricated.
I rated this book pretty highly because I enjoyed reading all the tea he spilt but also just learning his perspective on how he grew up. I don't agree with all of his takes, of course, but it was a good glimpse into his life. As dumb as the monarchy is, the whole concept of it and their lives are still fascinating to me.