Topherlytle

Piranesi is a beautifully written novel with a premise as mysterious as it is captivating. While often categorized as fantasy, it feels more like speculative fiction, or perhaps “fantasy light”, with a literary depth and layered themes that surprised me. The story unfolds in layers, revealing a world rich in symbolism and meaning, and a protagonist who is both compelling and quietly profound. As the mysteries unravel, the book evokes a mix of emotions: wonder, sadness, hope, and a lingering bittersweetness. I can see how this novel might be polarizing, but for me, it was a surprising and deeply rewarding read.

“Writing is not life, but I think that sometimes it can be a way back to life.”

With humor, directness, heart, and wisdom, King shares key beliefs and insights for anyone who is, or wants to be, a writer. He delivers these observations through story and reflection, to great effect.

Even if you have no aspirations of becoming a writer, this book is approachable and engaging enough to be enjoyed by anyone. Better still, King doesn't belabor anything, he keeps it slim, purposeful, and sharply written throughout.

Give it a read if you want to improve your writing, you're a fan of King, or you're simply looking for a quick, thoughtful, and entertaining read.

Let me make my bias clear from the get-go. I have always been fascinated with Theodore Roosevelt, exploration, and stories of survival - “The River of Doubt” checks all those boxes and then some. Written in a narrative format, this story is unexpected, much like the uncharted river at the heart of this retelling.

The author Candice Millard expertly paces this read with such visceral detail and historical context that it becomes one of those rare nonfiction books one just can't put down.

Fans of authors like Erik Larson and Jon Krakauer will immensely enjoy this book, as will any individual interested in the Amazon, Theodore Roosevelt, or exploration.

I read this once when I was young, and I could not fully grasp the depth that such a small story could hold. Rereading it in my forties, I found this to be evocative and affecting in ways I was unprepared for. Much can and has been said about Hemmingway's style of writing, but here in this story is a man who demonstrates the necessary courage it takes to keep going, the inherent need for companionship, and the devastating beauty that comes in realizing that life ends and our moments to live are now.

I honestly have no idea how to rate this book. I have been told for years by people and lists that it is a must-read for every man. The strategic side of my brain is relished in the presented intentionality and forethought. The prideful portion of my brain wanted to latch on to everything to enable my own power and success. I am conflicted. As we see individuals wage war over everything and anything, we continue to make people our enemies. I am more interested in finding rational and strategic thoughts to build bridges, not conquer and subdue.