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1mausergem
I never made it to 75 in 2011 but this year I'm determined to make it with a combination of audio and text books.
The memorable books of 2011 are:
1. Tess of the D'Ubervilles by Thomas Hardy
2. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
3. Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres
4. Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
5. Middlemarch by George Eliot
6. Cutting for Stone by Abraham Vergese
7. Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
8. The Calcutta Chromosome by Amitav Ghosh
9. Room by Emma Donaghue
The memorable books of 2011 are:
1. Tess of the D'Ubervilles by Thomas Hardy
2. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
3. Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres
4. Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell
5. Middlemarch by George Eliot
6. Cutting for Stone by Abraham Vergese
7. Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
8. The Calcutta Chromosome by Amitav Ghosh
9. Room by Emma Donaghue
2alcottacre
Glad to see you back with us again, Gautam! Happy New Year!
3mausergem
#2: Thanks Stasia for the visit and I intend to be here forever. LT has changed my reading habits and has introduced me to so many new books.
Book 1 - The Stars Shine Down by Sidney Sheldon
Rating - 2*
Review - This is the life story of Lara Cameron, a small town girl who makes it big in the construction business. It's a story of her highs and lows. She uses hard work and deception to get her ends.
I'm reading Sidney Sheldon after a gap of more than ten years. Back the I really enjoyed his books but reading it now I found this book very shallow and lacking any literary content.
Book 1 - The Stars Shine Down by Sidney Sheldon
Rating - 2*
Review - This is the life story of Lara Cameron, a small town girl who makes it big in the construction business. It's a story of her highs and lows. She uses hard work and deception to get her ends.
I'm reading Sidney Sheldon after a gap of more than ten years. Back the I really enjoyed his books but reading it now I found this book very shallow and lacking any literary content.
4alcottacre
I read only one of Sheldon's books a lifetime ago and decided that was enough. I cannot even remember the title of the novel now.
Glad to hear that you are sticking around with LT forever! I am too!
Glad to hear that you are sticking around with LT forever! I am too!
5kidzdoc
Happy New Year, Gautam! Will you be reading any Medicine books this month? I've started A Disease Apart: Leprosy in the Modern World by Tony Gould, which covers the disease over the last 200 years. It's quite good so far.
6Donna828
I hereby resolve to follow along in your reading life again, Gautam. I'm glad you got your "stinker" book out of the way. Hope your next one is better.
8scaifea
#5 Darryl: Oooh, that one sounds really interesting - adding it to my wishlist!
*waves* Hi, Gautam!
*waves* Hi, Gautam!
9mausergem
#5 - hi Darryl, I'm not planning on reading any books related to medicine this month but eagerly looking forward to you review.
#6 - Thanks Donna, likewise.
#7- Hi Jim, glad to be back.
#8- Hi Amber.
Thanks all for visiting.
#6 - Thanks Donna, likewise.
#7- Hi Jim, glad to be back.
#8- Hi Amber.
Thanks all for visiting.
10mausergem
Book 2 - Neuromancer by William Gibson
Rating - 3*
Review -
Neuromancer was written by William Gibson in 1984, six years before the invention of the world wide web and during a time when the concept of the Internet was coming up.
This is a story of Case, a computer hacker who is hired by a computer programme, a being of artificial intelligence to find its inventors and other of it's type and destroy them. He is helped in this task by a assassin, Molly, his computer and a rastamaffin. He see the world by logging into the computer who in turn transports him into the mind of Molly.
This novel must have been quite progressive for its time but reading it now you feel that you have already read something similar. A good read especially for the science fiction fan.
Rating - 3*
Review -
Neuromancer was written by William Gibson in 1984, six years before the invention of the world wide web and during a time when the concept of the Internet was coming up.
This is a story of Case, a computer hacker who is hired by a computer programme, a being of artificial intelligence to find its inventors and other of it's type and destroy them. He is helped in this task by a assassin, Molly, his computer and a rastamaffin. He see the world by logging into the computer who in turn transports him into the mind of Molly.
This novel must have been quite progressive for its time but reading it now you feel that you have already read something similar. A good read especially for the science fiction fan.
11alcottacre
I need to read Neuromancer one of these days. Thanks for the reminder, Gautam.
13mausergem
I'm going to be a father this April. So I'll be reading some children's books in the coming months. Here's the first of them.
Book 3 - The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Rating - 3*
Review - Dorothy is an orphan who lives with her uncle and aunt in Kansas. One day a cyclone carries her and her dog along with their house to a strange land. Here she meets and makes friends with a scarecrow, a Tin Woodman and a cowardly lion. The four friends travel to the land of Oz and have many adventures.
A story for children is eternally entertaining.
Book 3 - The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Rating - 3*
Review - Dorothy is an orphan who lives with her uncle and aunt in Kansas. One day a cyclone carries her and her dog along with their house to a strange land. Here she meets and makes friends with a scarecrow, a Tin Woodman and a cowardly lion. The four friends travel to the land of Oz and have many adventures.
A story for children is eternally entertaining.
15scaifea
Oh, congrats!! I started gathering books for Charlie (my 3-year-old) as soon as I found out that I was pregnant (and haven't stopped yet!).
16msf59
Gautam- That's great news, Papa! Congrats! Funny, my Mom was a big fan of Sidney Sheldon, so I remember reading a few of his back in the 70s.
I have not..YET..read William Gibson. Yes, it's sad.
I have not..YET..read William Gibson. Yes, it's sad.
17mausergem
#14 - Thanks Darryl.
#15 - Hi Amber, please suggest some children's books. In India the Panchatantra and the stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata are the traditional favorites.
#16 - Hi Mark, hey mark I got Neuromancer from your thread. Probably I'm wrong.
#15 - Hi Amber, please suggest some children's books. In India the Panchatantra and the stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata are the traditional favorites.
#16 - Hi Mark, hey mark I got Neuromancer from your thread. Probably I'm wrong.
18mausergem
Book 4 - The Long Song by Andrea Levy
Rating - 4.25*
Review - This is a story of a slave girl, July in mid nineteenth century Jamaica. July is born to a field slave by a white overseer. In her childhood she is taken from her mother to be a personal maid to the mistress of the house. July grows up and learns to be sly and manipulative. In 1832, in Jamaica the Baptist war broke out and it sowed the seeds of freedom from slavery in the minds of the black slaves which they got from the Queen of England in 1838. In the meantime July gives birth to a child and abandons him at the footsteps of the Baptist priest. Even after achieving freedom July continues to work as a maid. The overseer, Mr. Goodwin lusts after July and after marrying her mistress has a child with July. Soon trouble finds the plantation and the workers, now no longer slaves leave the plantation. As the plantation is in ruin Mr. Goodwin and his wife leave for England and take July's daughter but leave July behind. July spends the next few years on the grounds scavenging for her food till the time she is found by her son (her first child) who brings her into his family.
The story is told by July in third person. The author uses humor tastefully. The book makes you laugh, cry and be angry in turns.
Rating - 4.25*
Review - This is a story of a slave girl, July in mid nineteenth century Jamaica. July is born to a field slave by a white overseer. In her childhood she is taken from her mother to be a personal maid to the mistress of the house. July grows up and learns to be sly and manipulative. In 1832, in Jamaica the Baptist war broke out and it sowed the seeds of freedom from slavery in the minds of the black slaves which they got from the Queen of England in 1838. In the meantime July gives birth to a child and abandons him at the footsteps of the Baptist priest. Even after achieving freedom July continues to work as a maid. The overseer, Mr. Goodwin lusts after July and after marrying her mistress has a child with July. Soon trouble finds the plantation and the workers, now no longer slaves leave the plantation. As the plantation is in ruin Mr. Goodwin and his wife leave for England and take July's daughter but leave July behind. July spends the next few years on the grounds scavenging for her food till the time she is found by her son (her first child) who brings her into his family.
The story is told by July in third person. The author uses humor tastefully. The book makes you laugh, cry and be angry in turns.
19mausergem
Book 5 - Blacklands by Belinda Bauer
Rating - 4*
Review - Steven Lamb is a twelve year old boy who lives with his mother, brother and grandmother at his grandmother's house. His uncle was killed by a serial killer and a pedophile when he was twelve years old. The serial killer is later caught and is serving time. Steven is convinced that if he finds the undiscovered body of his uncle all his family troubles would disappear. In this persuit he starts digging in the moorlands where the other bodies were discovered. Failing this he writes to the serial killer in jail and the story unfolds.
This novel revolves around the pet theme of mystery writers now a days that is serial killers. But its still very entertaining.
Rating - 4*
Review - Steven Lamb is a twelve year old boy who lives with his mother, brother and grandmother at his grandmother's house. His uncle was killed by a serial killer and a pedophile when he was twelve years old. The serial killer is later caught and is serving time. Steven is convinced that if he finds the undiscovered body of his uncle all his family troubles would disappear. In this persuit he starts digging in the moorlands where the other bodies were discovered. Failing this he writes to the serial killer in jail and the story unfolds.
This novel revolves around the pet theme of mystery writers now a days that is serial killers. But its still very entertaining.
20Donna828
It's painful to think about the world before the internet became so prevalent. What would we do without LT? Good review of Neuromancer, a book I will pass up because I'm not a sci-fi fan.
I've had A Long Song on the wishlist for some time now. I sure liked Levy's Small Island, and this one looks good as well. Thanks, Gautam, for reading and posting about such interesting books.
I've had A Long Song on the wishlist for some time now. I sure liked Levy's Small Island, and this one looks good as well. Thanks, Gautam, for reading and posting about such interesting books.
21LizzieD
Whoa! I'm catching up, Gautam, and add my voice to the chorus of congratulations on imminent papahood! You remind me that I should read Neuromancer if for no other reason than the history.
22msf59
Gautam- I loved your review of the Long Song. I have this one in the stacks too. Like Donna, I loved Small Island, one of my top reads from a couple years ago.
No, I have not read Neuromancer or any of Gibson's books. Sad to say.
No, I have not read Neuromancer or any of Gibson's books. Sad to say.
23alcottacre
Congratulations on impending fatherhood, Gautam! Looks like you have been doing some good reading in the meantime.
I need to get to The Long Song yet. Thanks for the reminder! I loved Small Island.
I need to get to The Long Song yet. Thanks for the reminder! I loved Small Island.
24mausergem
#20- Hi Donna, just the other day I was thinking about my book reading sources before LT. I have just a couple of friends who read, the awards and things like BBC's The Big Read, were all the sources of recs i had. With LT i have surely broadened my horizons.
#21- Thanks Peggy.
#22- Hi Mark thanks for visiting.
#23- Thanks Stasia.
#21- Thanks Peggy.
#22- Hi Mark thanks for visiting.
#23- Thanks Stasia.
25mausergem
Book 6 - Absolute Power by David Baldacci
Rating - 3.5 *
Review -
A professional burglar is in the process of burgling a rich man's house when in walk the man's wife and the President of United States. What follows is a murder and a cat and mouse chase.
Thrillers like these will always keep you turning the pages. Pure and simple entertainment.
Rating - 3.5 *
Review -
A professional burglar is in the process of burgling a rich man's house when in walk the man's wife and the President of United States. What follows is a murder and a cat and mouse chase.
Thrillers like these will always keep you turning the pages. Pure and simple entertainment.
26mausergem
Book 7 - A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving
Rating - 4*
Review - This is a coming of age story. John Wheelwright and Owen Meany are two boys growing up in Gravesend, New England. The story is narrated by John in the first person. Owen is a unique kid. He is a short fellow with a squeaky voice and an ability to influence the people around him. In the course of a play, The Christmas Carol, Owen sees a gravestone with his name and date of death written on it. From here onwards the story build up to the final climax.
The author has skillfully developed the characters with small anecdotal events. The author also has put in a lot of religion in the story but fails to bring it all together. The climax is a bit of a letdown but the book overall is worth reading.
Rating - 4*
Review - This is a coming of age story. John Wheelwright and Owen Meany are two boys growing up in Gravesend, New England. The story is narrated by John in the first person. Owen is a unique kid. He is a short fellow with a squeaky voice and an ability to influence the people around him. In the course of a play, The Christmas Carol, Owen sees a gravestone with his name and date of death written on it. From here onwards the story build up to the final climax.
The author has skillfully developed the characters with small anecdotal events. The author also has put in a lot of religion in the story but fails to bring it all together. The climax is a bit of a letdown but the book overall is worth reading.
27msf59
Hi Gautam- Good review of Owen Meany. I read and enjoyed this one many years ago. I'm a big fan of Irving. He has a new book coming out.
28kidzdoc
Nice review of A Prayer for Owen Meany, Gautam. John Irving was one of my favorite writers in the 1980s, as I read three or four of his novels, but I haven't read anything by him since then.
29mausergem
Book 8 - The Summer Tree by Guy Gavriel Kay
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This is the first book of the Fionavar Tapestry series. Five people of our world go to the first of all worlds, Fionavar, on the invitation of the High King Ailell. This is their adventure. There are five regions of Fionavar who have control over the evil god Rakoth who is in captivity. In this part Rakoth is freed and the regions prepare for war.
The book is a bit slow to start but on it gets going it just flies. The author builds up the suspense beautifully in places but sometimes lets it go. The subsequent parts will be easier as you have all the characters already in place. So go read it if you like fantasy and like books in series form.
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This is the first book of the Fionavar Tapestry series. Five people of our world go to the first of all worlds, Fionavar, on the invitation of the High King Ailell. This is their adventure. There are five regions of Fionavar who have control over the evil god Rakoth who is in captivity. In this part Rakoth is freed and the regions prepare for war.
The book is a bit slow to start but on it gets going it just flies. The author builds up the suspense beautifully in places but sometimes lets it go. The subsequent parts will be easier as you have all the characters already in place. So go read it if you like fantasy and like books in series form.
30mausergem
Book 9 - The Innocence of Father Brown by GK Chesterton
Rating - 4*
Review - Father Brown is a short, inconspicuous, meek Catholic priest who is present at all the right places at the right time. He and his friend Flambeau (a former thief now a private detective courtesy Father Brown) in this set of twelve short stories solve many crimes. Father Brown does not believe in handing over the criminal to the authorities but instead he makes him realize his folly and take the right step.
GK Chesterton is truely a masterful story teller.
Rating - 4*
Review - Father Brown is a short, inconspicuous, meek Catholic priest who is present at all the right places at the right time. He and his friend Flambeau (a former thief now a private detective courtesy Father Brown) in this set of twelve short stories solve many crimes. Father Brown does not believe in handing over the criminal to the authorities but instead he makes him realize his folly and take the right step.
GK Chesterton is truely a masterful story teller.
31msf59
Gautam- I've had others recommend Guy Gavriel Kay to me but I've never tried him. Someday, perhaps? Hope all is well with you.
32ursula
A Prayer for Owen Meany is one of my very favorite books. It's not a perfect book (for example, when I'm recommending the book I tell people they can safely skip the chapters about Canadian Anglicanism), but it has some scenes and characters that will stick with you for a long time.
33Donna828
>30 mausergem:. Hi Gautam, I've never read anything by G. K. Chesterton, but your description of a masterful storyteller has convinced me to add him to the list of authors to look into. Thank you!
>32 ursula:: I join Ursula in the love of Owen Meany. I read it quite a few years ago and hope to do a reread someday to see if it stays in my Top Ten books. I fear that I may have to expand my "favorites" to a Top Fifty at the rate I keep reading good books recommended by LT readers.
>32 ursula:: I join Ursula in the love of Owen Meany. I read it quite a few years ago and hope to do a reread someday to see if it stays in my Top Ten books. I fear that I may have to expand my "favorites" to a Top Fifty at the rate I keep reading good books recommended by LT readers.
34Morphidae
A Prayer for Owen Meany is on my TBR Soon list.
35mausergem
Book 10 - Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Rating - 5*
Review - The story is set in the mid 1940's in the US when thousand's of families migrated to California from the mid- western states after they lost their lands which was rendered infertile in the 'Dust Bowl'. We follow the Joad family through all their trials and tribulations. Its a story of human resiliance and survival instinct in the face of adversity.
In alternate chapters we get a general description of the times and the story of the Joad family. The author has done a beautiful job building up the characters and the scenes.
I got introduced to Tom Joad in song by The Rage Against the Machine called The Ghost of Tom Joad. In the book it was like meeting a an old friend.
Rating - 5*
Review - The story is set in the mid 1940's in the US when thousand's of families migrated to California from the mid- western states after they lost their lands which was rendered infertile in the 'Dust Bowl'. We follow the Joad family through all their trials and tribulations. Its a story of human resiliance and survival instinct in the face of adversity.
In alternate chapters we get a general description of the times and the story of the Joad family. The author has done a beautiful job building up the characters and the scenes.
I got introduced to Tom Joad in song by The Rage Against the Machine called The Ghost of Tom Joad. In the book it was like meeting a an old friend.
36mausergem
Book 11 - The Time Traveller's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Rating - 3.75 *
Review - Clare at the age of six meets her husband, Henry in a meadow near her house, while he was time travelling. He tells her that he is her future husband and gives her dates of their future meetings till the time they will meet in the present time. Clare goes through her entire life waiting for Henry who dies when he is forty three.
As I am writing this review I suddenly realise that the same story could have been effectively told as a short story or a novella. The story goes to and fro in time as expected. The language is simple and beautiful and the narrative is witty.
A very romantic concept and a romantic story if you like such kind of things.
Rating - 3.75 *
Review - Clare at the age of six meets her husband, Henry in a meadow near her house, while he was time travelling. He tells her that he is her future husband and gives her dates of their future meetings till the time they will meet in the present time. Clare goes through her entire life waiting for Henry who dies when he is forty three.
As I am writing this review I suddenly realise that the same story could have been effectively told as a short story or a novella. The story goes to and fro in time as expected. The language is simple and beautiful and the narrative is witty.
A very romantic concept and a romantic story if you like such kind of things.
37mausergem
Book 12 - The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad
Rating - 4.25*
Rating - The story starts as a comedy and ends in tragedy. Its a story of Mr.Verloc, a married man with a small bookstand. He is also a secret agent employed by a foreign government and works with the revolutionaries and anarchists in the country. One day he is summoned by the new ambassador to the foreign embassy and is ridiculed upon his appearance and given a task to create dread in the common populance by blowing up the Greenwich park. He consults his anarchist friends and goes ahead with a plan that ends up hurting his innocent family.
A beautifully narrated story. Conrad has a style of mixing comedy and serious events in the story.
Rating - 4.25*
Rating - The story starts as a comedy and ends in tragedy. Its a story of Mr.Verloc, a married man with a small bookstand. He is also a secret agent employed by a foreign government and works with the revolutionaries and anarchists in the country. One day he is summoned by the new ambassador to the foreign embassy and is ridiculed upon his appearance and given a task to create dread in the common populance by blowing up the Greenwich park. He consults his anarchist friends and goes ahead with a plan that ends up hurting his innocent family.
A beautifully narrated story. Conrad has a style of mixing comedy and serious events in the story.
38mckait
I really liked the concept of Time Traveler's Wife.. and enjoyed the story.. I did not like her next book
Her Fearful Symmetry as well, but I am not sure why. It was ok, I guess for what it was.
Her Fearful Symmetry as well, but I am not sure why. It was ok, I guess for what it was.
39mausergem
Book 13 - The Three Mistakes of my Life by Chetan Bhagat
Rating - 3*
Review - This novel tell the story of three friends living in Ahmedabad, Gujrat, India at the turn of the century. It revolves around the major events like the earhquake in Kutch, the legendary cricket match between India and Australia, the Godhra train incident and the subsequent communal riots. The story takes us into these incidents first hand.
The language is simple and the author has tried to make the events melodramatic which robs them a bit of their crediblilty.
Rating - 3*
Review - This novel tell the story of three friends living in Ahmedabad, Gujrat, India at the turn of the century. It revolves around the major events like the earhquake in Kutch, the legendary cricket match between India and Australia, the Godhra train incident and the subsequent communal riots. The story takes us into these incidents first hand.
The language is simple and the author has tried to make the events melodramatic which robs them a bit of their crediblilty.
40mausergem
Book 14 - Red Harvest by Dashiell Hammett
Rating - 3*
Review - Welcome to the town Personville or better known as Poisonville where everyone is crooked and bad and all of them kill each other in the end.
Still its fun to reach such kind of books once in a while.
Rating - 3*
Review - Welcome to the town Personville or better known as Poisonville where everyone is crooked and bad and all of them kill each other in the end.
Still its fun to reach such kind of books once in a while.
41msf59
Gautam- You've been knocking out a nice blend of classics and pop lit. Grapes of Wrath is still my favorite book of all time. I'd like to go back and read more Hammet, it's been over 20 years.
Hope all is well.
Hope all is well.
42mausergem
Grapes of Wrath was a memorable read for me too. Thanks Mark for visiting.
43mausergem
Book 15 - Atonement by Ian McEwan
Rating - 5*
Review - This is a story of Briony, a dreamy thirteen year old girl who lives with her mother and elder sister in their family home on a large estate and like to write stories. Its summer and her cousins have come to stay. Her elder brother also has been visiting with a friend. Briony see her sister, Cecilia, in a compromised position with Robbie, who has studied with Cecilia at Cambridge and is the charwoman's son. Briony presumes that he is forcing himself on her sister. During the course of the day she sees her cousin being attacked by a man in the dark and accuses Robbie of the act with conviction. Later on she finds out her mistake and begins a lifelong atonement.
The author has excelled in charecter development and language. You see the rural life, the second world war, the British retreat and the war casualties in hospitals in vivid detail. A five starrer.
Rating - 5*
Review - This is a story of Briony, a dreamy thirteen year old girl who lives with her mother and elder sister in their family home on a large estate and like to write stories. Its summer and her cousins have come to stay. Her elder brother also has been visiting with a friend. Briony see her sister, Cecilia, in a compromised position with Robbie, who has studied with Cecilia at Cambridge and is the charwoman's son. Briony presumes that he is forcing himself on her sister. During the course of the day she sees her cousin being attacked by a man in the dark and accuses Robbie of the act with conviction. Later on she finds out her mistake and begins a lifelong atonement.
The author has excelled in charecter development and language. You see the rural life, the second world war, the British retreat and the war casualties in hospitals in vivid detail. A five starrer.
44alcottacre
I have read several of McEwan's books, but not that one. Thus far, my favorite has been Saturday. Have you read that one yet, Gautam?
45kidzdoc
>43 mausergem: Nice review of Atonement, Gautam. I'm a fan of his, but I haven't read this one yet.
>44 alcottacre: Chiming in...I have 11 of McEwan's novels, but I was surprised that I've only read six of them. Saturday is my favorite one so far, and The Cement Garden and On Chesil Beach aren't far behind. His latest novel, entitled "Sweet Tooth", will be published in the UK in August.
http://www.ianmcewan.com/bib/books/sweettooth.html
>44 alcottacre: Chiming in...I have 11 of McEwan's novels, but I was surprised that I've only read six of them. Saturday is my favorite one so far, and The Cement Garden and On Chesil Beach aren't far behind. His latest novel, entitled "Sweet Tooth", will be published in the UK in August.
http://www.ianmcewan.com/bib/books/sweettooth.html
46Donna828
Hi Gautam, it's good to see you're still cranking out the books and reviews despite your extra duties as a new father. I really liked Atonement too, though it seems to be one of those divisive books here on LT. The movie was pretty good as well with some haunting post-battle scenes in it.
I'm getting closer to a Chesterton read (#30, 33). I bought a biography so I can read about the man before I read his books.
I recently read Hammett's The Maltese Falcon, another fun read!
Give that baby boy a gentle hug from me. ;-)
I'm getting closer to a Chesterton read (#30, 33). I bought a biography so I can read about the man before I read his books.
I recently read Hammett's The Maltese Falcon, another fun read!
Give that baby boy a gentle hug from me. ;-)
48msf59
Sadly, I have STILL not read McEwan. What's my problem? Who knows. I have a couple of his in the stacks too.
49mausergem
>44 alcottacre: - Thanks Stasia for visiting.
>45 kidzdoc: - Darryl, I'll definately get Sweet Tooth as and when its available here. Plan to read more of Ian McEwan.
>46 Donna828: - Hi Donna, Malayaj (my son) returns the hug.
>47 lkernagh: - Hi Lori
>48 msf59: - Hi Mark, you are forever adding books to my TBR list. Its time to return some favors. Atonement is a must read.
>45 kidzdoc: - Darryl, I'll definately get Sweet Tooth as and when its available here. Plan to read more of Ian McEwan.
>46 Donna828: - Hi Donna, Malayaj (my son) returns the hug.
>47 lkernagh: - Hi Lori
>48 msf59: - Hi Mark, you are forever adding books to my TBR list. Its time to return some favors. Atonement is a must read.
50mausergem
Book 16 - Hotel Du Lac by Anita Brookner
Rating - 4.5*
Review - Edith who looks like Virginia Woolf and is a author of popular fiction novels, has been ostracized by her circle of friends in London and is spending time in exile at the Hotel du Lac in Switzerland where she meets other guests women all and one man. In the course of the novel we find out about the cause of her banishment and about the sad sad lives of the other guests.
The setting and the characters of this book are alien to me but still I came to love and understand all of them. That was the beauty of the narrative for me. A lovely book.
Rating - 4.5*
Review - Edith who looks like Virginia Woolf and is a author of popular fiction novels, has been ostracized by her circle of friends in London and is spending time in exile at the Hotel du Lac in Switzerland where she meets other guests women all and one man. In the course of the novel we find out about the cause of her banishment and about the sad sad lives of the other guests.
The setting and the characters of this book are alien to me but still I came to love and understand all of them. That was the beauty of the narrative for me. A lovely book.
51kidzdoc
Very nice review of Hotel du Lac, Gautam. I'll definitely read it in the near future, since it's a Booker Prize winner.
I'll definitely read Atonement this year, along with "Sweet Tooth" when it becomes available.
I'll definitely read Atonement this year, along with "Sweet Tooth" when it becomes available.
53kidzdoc
Gautam, this week's New Yorker includes a story by Ian McEwan, which seems to be the opening segment of "Sweet Tooth"; the narrator in the story and the lead character in the book are both named Serena Frome. Fortunately the full text is available to nonsubscribers; here's the link:
Hand on the Shoulder
Hand on the Shoulder
55mausergem
Book 17 - Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll
Rating - 4*
No review but just want to say that this is the quirkiest book ever. This is my forth or fifth read and it draws a full bodied laugh. Last time my favorite character was the Cheshire cat and this time it's the Mock Turtle. I give it four stars just because it's so short and I want it to go on and on.
Rating - 4*
No review but just want to say that this is the quirkiest book ever. This is my forth or fifth read and it draws a full bodied laugh. Last time my favorite character was the Cheshire cat and this time it's the Mock Turtle. I give it four stars just because it's so short and I want it to go on and on.
56mausergem
Book 18 - Belinda by Anne Rice
Rating - 3*
Review - This is the story of a middle aged children's books writer, illustrator and a painter who after years of doing the same old children's books fall in love with a runaway teenaged girl and creates a whole set of nude paintings. The novel rings with all the stereotypes such as the forbidden love, precocious girl, her movie star self centered mother, her movie producer lecherous step father.
The book is slow and the climax is long drawn out. It's a 3 star read.
Rating - 3*
Review - This is the story of a middle aged children's books writer, illustrator and a painter who after years of doing the same old children's books fall in love with a runaway teenaged girl and creates a whole set of nude paintings. The novel rings with all the stereotypes such as the forbidden love, precocious girl, her movie star self centered mother, her movie producer lecherous step father.
The book is slow and the climax is long drawn out. It's a 3 star read.
57mausergem
Book 19 - In the Country of Men by Hisham Matar
Rating - 4.5*
Review - The story is set in Tripoli in 1979 and is narrated by a young boy, Suleman. Suleman is the only son of a wealthy businessman, Faraj. Faraj and his neighbor and few of the university students are taken into custody for under charges of treason by the Quaddafi government.
The story is narrated from the view point of the nine year boy and his understanding of the situation. The author beautifully portrays the place and the people. Libya come alive throught the eyes of a small kid.
The strong willed mother, the execution scene are handled very well. A must read.
Rating - 4.5*
Review - The story is set in Tripoli in 1979 and is narrated by a young boy, Suleman. Suleman is the only son of a wealthy businessman, Faraj. Faraj and his neighbor and few of the university students are taken into custody for under charges of treason by the Quaddafi government.
The story is narrated from the view point of the nine year boy and his understanding of the situation. The author beautifully portrays the place and the people. Libya come alive throught the eyes of a small kid.
The strong willed mother, the execution scene are handled very well. A must read.
58kidzdoc
Nice review of In the Country of Men, Gautam. It was a powerful book, and I agree with you that it's a must read. His latest novel, Anatomy of a Disappearance, wasn't anywhere near as good, although I still liked it.
60msf59
Gautam- Nice thoughts on In the Country of Men. I've heard very good things about this book.
61mausergem
Book 20 - A Dark Matter by Peter Straub
Rating - 3*
Review -
A group of high school kids get influenced by a shaman who performs a ceremony which opens a window to another world. That evening a guy in the group dies and one goes insane. A few years later when the husband of one of the victims who also happens to be a writer investigated each comes up with his own version of the occurrences of that day.
For a tale of horror it is quite Luke warm.
Rating - 3*
Review -
A group of high school kids get influenced by a shaman who performs a ceremony which opens a window to another world. That evening a guy in the group dies and one goes insane. A few years later when the husband of one of the victims who also happens to be a writer investigated each comes up with his own version of the occurrences of that day.
For a tale of horror it is quite Luke warm.
62kidzdoc
>61 mausergem: Nope. Thanks, but no thanks.
63markon
I recently read Saturday by Ian McEwan and liked it quite a bit, so there will be more of his work in my future. Atonement? Solar? On Chesil Beach? I don't know which one to pick . . .
65mausergem
Book 21 - Best Russian Short Stories
Compiled by Thomas Seltzer
Rating - 4*
This is a short story collection edited and compiled by Thomas Seltzer. It contains stories of the greats of Russian literature such as Gorky, Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Pushkin, Chekhov and others.
The Russian short story writer is more concerned about the common man. His main theme is the common man and his suffering. The best stories are The Cloak by NV Gogol, The Shades by VG Korolenko, The Darling by AP Chekhov and Lazarus by LN Andreyev were the stories I liked the best.
Compiled by Thomas Seltzer
Rating - 4*
This is a short story collection edited and compiled by Thomas Seltzer. It contains stories of the greats of Russian literature such as Gorky, Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Pushkin, Chekhov and others.
The Russian short story writer is more concerned about the common man. His main theme is the common man and his suffering. The best stories are The Cloak by NV Gogol, The Shades by VG Korolenko, The Darling by AP Chekhov and Lazarus by LN Andreyev were the stories I liked the best.
66msf59
Gautam- I've really been getting into short stories, (I've even set up an SS Challenge), so this classic set sounds very interesting.
67mausergem
Book 22 - The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This novel is one of those "hard boiled" crime fiction novels where everyone is evil and selfish and the world in general is a bad place. It's all about money and sex.
A bum, Frank Chambers, is hired by a owner, The Greek, of highway side cafe and petrol pump, as a helping hand. He seduces his wife Cora. Later both plan to kill the Greek and succeed in their second attempt. When they are brought in front of the courts they escape punishment by a mixup in the insurance company investigation but both betray each other by that time. What follows is a life of suspicion.
It's a good book for the lovers of such genre of books. I for one don't like it so much.
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This novel is one of those "hard boiled" crime fiction novels where everyone is evil and selfish and the world in general is a bad place. It's all about money and sex.
A bum, Frank Chambers, is hired by a owner, The Greek, of highway side cafe and petrol pump, as a helping hand. He seduces his wife Cora. Later both plan to kill the Greek and succeed in their second attempt. When they are brought in front of the courts they escape punishment by a mixup in the insurance company investigation but both betray each other by that time. What follows is a life of suspicion.
It's a good book for the lovers of such genre of books. I for one don't like it so much.
68mausergem
Book 23 - Money A Suicide Note by Martin Amis
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This is a satire on the film industry. John Self is a tv commercial director who has a idea for making a movie which is picked up by producer in America. The drunk director, the eccentric actors, the ridiculous script and the lavish lifestyle is described in the most funny way possible.
The book is repetitive at places and sometimes drags on. But it still has many moments of laugh out loud moments in it.
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This is a satire on the film industry. John Self is a tv commercial director who has a idea for making a movie which is picked up by producer in America. The drunk director, the eccentric actors, the ridiculous script and the lavish lifestyle is described in the most funny way possible.
The book is repetitive at places and sometimes drags on. But it still has many moments of laugh out loud moments in it.
69Donna828
67: Lol, Gautam. I so agree with your last sentence about The Postman Always Rings Twice. I'm usually not crazy about books narrated by children, but it was the perfect touch for In the Country of Men. I loved that book.
Going further upthread, you remind me that I have an unread copy of Hotel Du Lac. Maybe I'll get to it next month. I've planned to read several long books and I could easily squeeze a "shorty" in between them.
Hugs to Malaya. I would live to see a picture of him.
Going further upthread, you remind me that I have an unread copy of Hotel Du Lac. Maybe I'll get to it next month. I've planned to read several long books and I could easily squeeze a "shorty" in between them.
Hugs to Malaya. I would live to see a picture of him.
70mausergem
Hi Donna, thanks for the visit. I will definitely post some snaps of Malayaj ( it means sandalwood in Sanskrit ) next time. I don't seem to manage it on my iPad.
71mausergem
Book 24 - Darkness Visible : A Memoir of Madness by William Styron
Rating - 3*
Review - This is a book about depression and William styron's attempt to fight it. He begins with an anecdote about his behavior in Paris where he had gone to receive a literary award. He ends up contradicting the benefactress, losing the cheque and forming firm beliefs of his not returning to Paris ever again.
Starting at the beginning his troubles started when he develops nausea of alcohol (he being a long term alcohol consumer). His describes his gradual slide into the depths of melancholy. On the verge of suicide he decides to seek professional help and gets hospitalized where he stays for seven weeks and gets better.
He describes the disease as a "brainstorm" with loss of his normal circadian cycle, constant anxiety and a gloom set on all things around him.
This is a very short book and thankfully so. You won't want to read 500 pages of lamenting, would you?!
Rating - 3*
Review - This is a book about depression and William styron's attempt to fight it. He begins with an anecdote about his behavior in Paris where he had gone to receive a literary award. He ends up contradicting the benefactress, losing the cheque and forming firm beliefs of his not returning to Paris ever again.
Starting at the beginning his troubles started when he develops nausea of alcohol (he being a long term alcohol consumer). His describes his gradual slide into the depths of melancholy. On the verge of suicide he decides to seek professional help and gets hospitalized where he stays for seven weeks and gets better.
He describes the disease as a "brainstorm" with loss of his normal circadian cycle, constant anxiety and a gloom set on all things around him.
This is a very short book and thankfully so. You won't want to read 500 pages of lamenting, would you?!
72kidzdoc
Nice review of Darkness Visible, Gautam. I'll eventually get around to it.
73mausergem
Book 25 - A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
Rating - 5*
Review - ...and the moral of the story is "Life is what you make of it."
This novel is set in Bombay now Mumbai in the mid 1970s. It's a time when Emergency is imposed as charges have been proved against the then Prime Minister of unfair elections. But life goes on for our four main characters and a host of small part players.
Dina Dalal, a middle aged Parsi widow, is trying to make ends meet and keep her independence and her flat, by taking in a paying guest and stitching work for an outsourcing company and hiring a couple of tailors to do the job. Manek is a young man who has been sent from his home in the hills to the city to acquire an education rather than just sit at the family daily needs shop. He is Dina's paying guest. Ishwar and Om are tailors who have come to the city in search of work and now are working for Dina also have a traumatic past.
The story is about interpersonal relationships of these four characters. The author also deals with the then political situation and the government policies. The troubles and the challenges of big city life is describes. But above all the story is about how deal with it, whether you roll with the punches or you get knocked down and hence the moral of the story is...
Rating - 5*
Review - ...and the moral of the story is "Life is what you make of it."
This novel is set in Bombay now Mumbai in the mid 1970s. It's a time when Emergency is imposed as charges have been proved against the then Prime Minister of unfair elections. But life goes on for our four main characters and a host of small part players.
Dina Dalal, a middle aged Parsi widow, is trying to make ends meet and keep her independence and her flat, by taking in a paying guest and stitching work for an outsourcing company and hiring a couple of tailors to do the job. Manek is a young man who has been sent from his home in the hills to the city to acquire an education rather than just sit at the family daily needs shop. He is Dina's paying guest. Ishwar and Om are tailors who have come to the city in search of work and now are working for Dina also have a traumatic past.
The story is about interpersonal relationships of these four characters. The author also deals with the then political situation and the government policies. The troubles and the challenges of big city life is describes. But above all the story is about how deal with it, whether you roll with the punches or you get knocked down and hence the moral of the story is...
74kidzdoc
Very nice review of A Fine Balance, Gautam. I'll definitely read it later this year; have you read anything else by him?
75mausergem
Hi Darryl just coming from your thread . I've read Family Matters by Rohinton Mistry which I also liked quiet a bit.
76kidzdoc
Thanks, Gautam. I own Family Matters and Such a Long Journey, but I haven't read either one yet.
77Donna828
>73 mausergem:: A Fine Balance is one of my all-time favorite books, and one that I plan to reread someday. That is a fine review, Gautam. ;-)
78mausergem
Thanks Donna and Darryl for the visit.
Book 26 - Too Much Happiness by Alice Munro
Rating - 4.5*
It's a collection of short stories, so no review by me will do any justice. It's a brilliant collection with beautiful language and gripping story lines. A must read.
Book 26 - Too Much Happiness by Alice Munro
Rating - 4.5*
It's a collection of short stories, so no review by me will do any justice. It's a brilliant collection with beautiful language and gripping story lines. A must read.
79msf59
Gautam- Good to see such fine reading going on over here. I really need to get to a Fine Balance. I've had it on my shelf for a couple years now. Sad. Too Much Happiness was my 1st Munro and I also loved it. I NEED to get to more of her work. You should post that over on the Short Story thread, it's on the 75. Hope all is well.
80mausergem
Book 27 - Hominids by Robert J Sawyer
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This book Won the Hugo award in 2003. It's a story of Ponter Bonditt, a Neanderthal from a parallel universe who has accidentally migrated into our world. The book discusses many issues about quantum physics and history of evolution. A fast fun read.
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This book Won the Hugo award in 2003. It's a story of Ponter Bonditt, a Neanderthal from a parallel universe who has accidentally migrated into our world. The book discusses many issues about quantum physics and history of evolution. A fast fun read.
81mausergem
Book 28 - Devil in a Blue Dress by Walter Mosley
Rating - 3*
Review - Easy Rawlins is an out of work guy who gets caught in a web of deceit and murder when he agrees to find a girl of dubious charecter. When he is harnessed by the police for suspected murder he decides to get to bottom of the matter with the help of his gangster friend.
The book gives us the plight of the black community in the fifties in Los Angeles. The author has captured the dialect beautifully and the book is fast paced.
Rating - 3*
Review - Easy Rawlins is an out of work guy who gets caught in a web of deceit and murder when he agrees to find a girl of dubious charecter. When he is harnessed by the police for suspected murder he decides to get to bottom of the matter with the help of his gangster friend.
The book gives us the plight of the black community in the fifties in Los Angeles. The author has captured the dialect beautifully and the book is fast paced.
82mausergem
Book 29 - One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Rating - 4.5*
Review - This is a story of Macondo, a fictitious city from the time of its first building to its final destruction. It's a story of the Buendia family who are founders of Macondo. It's a multi generation tale with recurring names of characters.
This is a book in the magic realism genre. Here people find buried treasures, levitate, ascend to heaven, pronounce their arrival by the butterflies around their heads and other fantastic things.
The book is sometimes repetitive but the language is absolutely fantastic. The story goes to and fro in time which can be a bit confusing. The greatest message that the book sends across is that all of us are born in solitude and will die in solitude. Life is empty and meaningless and it's all crap.
Rating - 4.5*
Review - This is a story of Macondo, a fictitious city from the time of its first building to its final destruction. It's a story of the Buendia family who are founders of Macondo. It's a multi generation tale with recurring names of characters.
This is a book in the magic realism genre. Here people find buried treasures, levitate, ascend to heaven, pronounce their arrival by the butterflies around their heads and other fantastic things.
The book is sometimes repetitive but the language is absolutely fantastic. The story goes to and fro in time which can be a bit confusing. The greatest message that the book sends across is that all of us are born in solitude and will die in solitude. Life is empty and meaningless and it's all crap.
83mausergem
Book 30 - The Awakening by Kate Chopin
Rating - 3*
Review - This is a story of Edna Pontellier, an affluent middle aged woman who is depressed and is going through mid life crisis. She readily fall in love with younger men and encourages other men.
This book when it was published in 1899 had created a great scandal but today it will just count as a sad story of a depressed woman.
Rating - 3*
Review - This is a story of Edna Pontellier, an affluent middle aged woman who is depressed and is going through mid life crisis. She readily fall in love with younger men and encourages other men.
This book when it was published in 1899 had created a great scandal but today it will just count as a sad story of a depressed woman.
86mausergem
Book 31 - Mansfield Park by Jane Austen
Rating - 4*
Review - Fanny Price is a poor relative of Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram of Mansfield Park and has been staying with them since the age of 10 years. Her cousins do not treat her as equal except Edmund, the second son of Sir Thomas who is to be ordained. In come Mary and Henry Crawford, visiting relatives of the local parson's wife. Henry is a ladies man and falls for Fanny and persues her. Edmund falls for the modern thinking Mary. What is the fate of these individual love stories is the novel.
Jane Austen is a masterful story teller and weaves a riveting narrative in simple words. Her charecters are strong but predictable. A great read from a great author.
Rating - 4*
Review - Fanny Price is a poor relative of Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram of Mansfield Park and has been staying with them since the age of 10 years. Her cousins do not treat her as equal except Edmund, the second son of Sir Thomas who is to be ordained. In come Mary and Henry Crawford, visiting relatives of the local parson's wife. Henry is a ladies man and falls for Fanny and persues her. Edmund falls for the modern thinking Mary. What is the fate of these individual love stories is the novel.
Jane Austen is a masterful story teller and weaves a riveting narrative in simple words. Her charecters are strong but predictable. A great read from a great author.
87mausergem
Book 32 - Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett
Rating - 2*
Review - This is a two act play involving two tramps who are waiting beneath a dead tree waiting for Godot.
The play has no story, no linear dialogue and no sense at all.
Rating - 2*
Review - This is a two act play involving two tramps who are waiting beneath a dead tree waiting for Godot.
The play has no story, no linear dialogue and no sense at all.
89kidzdoc
Malayaj is adorable! Thanks for posting a picture of him, Gautam, and congratulations to you and your wife.
90mausergem
Book 33 - Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This is an illustrated story of a 10 year old girl in Iran. It starts in the eighties when Iran was ruled by a monarch and follows the life of a modern, well educated and a well to do family. You learn about the monarch, the stuggle to free the country from the monarchy, the power which was taken up by religious fundamentalists and the Iran- Iraq war.
The illustrations are mediocre but reveal much more than mere words can convey. Its a look into a country about whom everyone has prejudiced ideas.
Rating - 3.5*
Review - This is an illustrated story of a 10 year old girl in Iran. It starts in the eighties when Iran was ruled by a monarch and follows the life of a modern, well educated and a well to do family. You learn about the monarch, the stuggle to free the country from the monarchy, the power which was taken up by religious fundamentalists and the Iran- Iraq war.
The illustrations are mediocre but reveal much more than mere words can convey. Its a look into a country about whom everyone has prejudiced ideas.
91mausergem
Book 34 - The Fourth K by Mario Puzo
Rating - 2.5*
Review - Robert Kennedy is the President of the United States and the nephew of Jack Kennedy. He is near the end of his term and not a successful president as most of his policies have been shot down by the congress. A terrorist group assassinates the Pope and abducts his daughter and ultimately kill her, which changes his fortunes. He takes affirmative action and wins over people and the elections. But this entire process alters him and makes him a tyrant.
The author's sensational plot hasn't worked. The story drags on and is unconvincing. I'm surprised that the author of The Godfather could produce such garbage.
Rating - 2.5*
Review - Robert Kennedy is the President of the United States and the nephew of Jack Kennedy. He is near the end of his term and not a successful president as most of his policies have been shot down by the congress. A terrorist group assassinates the Pope and abducts his daughter and ultimately kill her, which changes his fortunes. He takes affirmative action and wins over people and the elections. But this entire process alters him and makes him a tyrant.
The author's sensational plot hasn't worked. The story drags on and is unconvincing. I'm surprised that the author of The Godfather could produce such garbage.
92msf59
Hi Gautam- Thanks for sharing your photo of your son. He's beautiful. Sorry, you didn't care for Persepolis more. It's one of my favorite GNs.
93mausergem
Hi Mark, I liked Persepolis story line but I had expected the illustrations to be better.
94mausergem
Book 35 - The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi
Rating - 4.5*
Review - This is a dystrophic tale set in Thailand. It's a time when most of the natural fuel resources have been consumed, the world is ravaged by ever mutating infectious diseases and food companies control nations. It's a story of Anderson, an agent of one food company who has come to Thailand in search of its seed bank. It's a story of Emiko, a genetically engineered legal secretary with super fast reflexes. It's a story of of Jaidee and Kanya two police officers of the city. It's the story of Hock Seng, an illegal immigrant from China who is working as a manager in a factory and has the essential survival skills.
The author has set up the story such that you love and sympathise with all the charecters and want them to do well. The story moves at a brisk pace and very entertaining. A must read for all.
Rating - 4.5*
Review - This is a dystrophic tale set in Thailand. It's a time when most of the natural fuel resources have been consumed, the world is ravaged by ever mutating infectious diseases and food companies control nations. It's a story of Anderson, an agent of one food company who has come to Thailand in search of its seed bank. It's a story of Emiko, a genetically engineered legal secretary with super fast reflexes. It's a story of of Jaidee and Kanya two police officers of the city. It's the story of Hock Seng, an illegal immigrant from China who is working as a manager in a factory and has the essential survival skills.
The author has set up the story such that you love and sympathise with all the charecters and want them to do well. The story moves at a brisk pace and very entertaining. A must read for all.
95kidzdoc
Nice review of The Windup Girl, Gautam. I'll add it to my wish list.
96mausergem
Book 36 - Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth
Rating - 3.5*
Review - Alexander Portnoy is a 33 year old male sitting in front of his psychiatrist and narrating this tale. He is a Jewish boy born and brought up in New Jersey. He has above average intelligence and criticizes everybody around him like his constipated, unambicious insurance agent father, his bossy fat overprotective mother, his sister, his numerous Jewish and non Jewish girlfriends.
This book is a satire by a Jewish person on the Jewish community and his family. You get to see the various differences between the goys(non Jewish people) and the Jews. The book is vulgar at places but over the top funny.
Rating - 3.5*
Review - Alexander Portnoy is a 33 year old male sitting in front of his psychiatrist and narrating this tale. He is a Jewish boy born and brought up in New Jersey. He has above average intelligence and criticizes everybody around him like his constipated, unambicious insurance agent father, his bossy fat overprotective mother, his sister, his numerous Jewish and non Jewish girlfriends.
This book is a satire by a Jewish person on the Jewish community and his family. You get to see the various differences between the goys(non Jewish people) and the Jews. The book is vulgar at places but over the top funny.
97mausergem
Book 37 - White Teeth by Zadie Smith
Rating - 3*
Review - Between the cover of this book are snapshots in the lives of some immigrants living in London. The first three quarters of the book is character building and the last quarter resembles something of a story. To the authors credit the characters are interesting, funny and very well written. The author makes up for the lack of story by presenting hilarious anecdotes and catchy phrases and interesting thoughts. Overall not a bad book but I would not read any book by this author again.
Rating - 3*
Review - Between the cover of this book are snapshots in the lives of some immigrants living in London. The first three quarters of the book is character building and the last quarter resembles something of a story. To the authors credit the characters are interesting, funny and very well written. The author makes up for the lack of story by presenting hilarious anecdotes and catchy phrases and interesting thoughts. Overall not a bad book but I would not read any book by this author again.
98mausergem
Book 38 - The Deep Blue Good-bye by John D. MacDonald
Rating - 4*
Review - This is the first book of John MacDonald's, Travis MacGee mystery and thriller series. Travis is a "retriever", a person who gets back to you things and you don't want to go to the police, for a fee. He lives in Miami on a boat.
In this book Travis is approached by Cathy who ia a friend of a friend. Cathy's father had been in WWII in India and after that in jail for hitting an officer. In jail he meets a young man AA Allen and gets quite friendly with him. He dies in jail but Allen comes and stays with the family. Her he has an affair with Cathy and one day he suddenly leaves them just to reappear in town a month later with loads of money. This makes Cathy suspect that Allen has discovered her father secret hoard of money or whatever he managed to bring back from India.
MacGee gets on the trail of Allen where he discovers him to be fond of vulnerable, naive women. Lois is one of Allen's victims whom Travis takes under his wing. Lois slowly opens up to Travis revealing Allen's dangerous and perverted personality. Travis faces of with Allen in a superb and chilling finale.
This is a very well written book. The build up is fabulous and the finale is breath taking. A must read for mystery and thriller fans.
Rating - 4*
Review - This is the first book of John MacDonald's, Travis MacGee mystery and thriller series. Travis is a "retriever", a person who gets back to you things and you don't want to go to the police, for a fee. He lives in Miami on a boat.
In this book Travis is approached by Cathy who ia a friend of a friend. Cathy's father had been in WWII in India and after that in jail for hitting an officer. In jail he meets a young man AA Allen and gets quite friendly with him. He dies in jail but Allen comes and stays with the family. Her he has an affair with Cathy and one day he suddenly leaves them just to reappear in town a month later with loads of money. This makes Cathy suspect that Allen has discovered her father secret hoard of money or whatever he managed to bring back from India.
MacGee gets on the trail of Allen where he discovers him to be fond of vulnerable, naive women. Lois is one of Allen's victims whom Travis takes under his wing. Lois slowly opens up to Travis revealing Allen's dangerous and perverted personality. Travis faces of with Allen in a superb and chilling finale.
This is a very well written book. The build up is fabulous and the finale is breath taking. A must read for mystery and thriller fans.
99mausergem
Book 39 - Tinkers by Paul Harding
Rating - 2*
Review - This is a 2010 Pulitzer prize winner for fiction. It begins with George Washington Crosby, a antique clock repairer, on his death bed, seven days before he dies. The story moves to and for in his hallucinations and his remembrances of his childhood, his father and grand father.
There is no story line. People are described in third person ans then suddenly start talking in first person. There is no linear flow or any flow for that matter. Suddenly out of the blue the author write some flowery sentences which are completely unrelated to the story. Overall it's completely rubbish.
Rating - 2*
Review - This is a 2010 Pulitzer prize winner for fiction. It begins with George Washington Crosby, a antique clock repairer, on his death bed, seven days before he dies. The story moves to and for in his hallucinations and his remembrances of his childhood, his father and grand father.
There is no story line. People are described in third person ans then suddenly start talking in first person. There is no linear flow or any flow for that matter. Suddenly out of the blue the author write some flowery sentences which are completely unrelated to the story. Overall it's completely rubbish.
100msf59
Hi Gautam- Good to see you making it through the books! Nice diversity. Congrats! I also loved The Windup Girl. I recently read Ship Breaker by the same author and it was also very good. I was a big fan of the Travis McGee books but I haven't read any of the series in over 20 years. I liked Tinkers more than you but I do agree it fell short of greatness.
101kidzdoc
I'm sorry to hear that you didn't like Tinkers, Gautam. I own it, but I haven't read it yet.
102mausergem
#100 - Hi Mark, I will definately read more by Paolo Bachigalupi. Thank for the rec.
#101 - Hi Darryl, you can safely remove Tinkers from the TBR pile. It's frankly rubbish.
#101 - Hi Darryl, you can safely remove Tinkers from the TBR pile. It's frankly rubbish.
103mausergem
Book 40 - Champagne for One by Rex Stout
Rating - 3.25*
Review - Nero Wolfe, is a middle aged, fat private detective who doesn't leave his private chambers ever. His ground work is done by a young associate, Archie Goodwin and few other collegues.
In this book, Ar hie is invited to a private party where a death occurs and all Including the police are convinced that it is a case of suicide except Archie. It's a story of how he and Mr Wolfe go about proving it with lots of cunning and stealth.
A fair read. Noting special or worth remembering.
Rating - 3.25*
Review - Nero Wolfe, is a middle aged, fat private detective who doesn't leave his private chambers ever. His ground work is done by a young associate, Archie Goodwin and few other collegues.
In this book, Ar hie is invited to a private party where a death occurs and all Including the police are convinced that it is a case of suicide except Archie. It's a story of how he and Mr Wolfe go about proving it with lots of cunning and stealth.
A fair read. Noting special or worth remembering.
104mausergem
Book 41 - Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Rating - 5*
Review - This is the story of Scarlett O'Hara, a belle of the south tracing her journey from the most sought after girl, to the American Civil war, to her struggle for survival in Atlanta post war, to her infamous love affair with Captain Rhett Butler.
This is a reread for me. Fast paced, detailed and unforgivable characters.
Rating - 5*
Review - This is the story of Scarlett O'Hara, a belle of the south tracing her journey from the most sought after girl, to the American Civil war, to her struggle for survival in Atlanta post war, to her infamous love affair with Captain Rhett Butler.
This is a reread for me. Fast paced, detailed and unforgivable characters.
105kidzdoc
Gautam, you had asked some time ago if I had run across a book about TB. I just now saw a review in the Guardian of a new book, Spitting Blood: The History of Tuberculosis by Helen Bynum that received a glowing review by Richard Horton, the editor of The Lancet. I've added it to my Christmas wish list, and I'll definitely read it next year.
Spitting Blood: The History of Tuberculosis by Helen Bynum – review
Spitting Blood: The History of Tuberculosis by Helen Bynum – review
106mausergem
Book 42 - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Rating - 5*
Review - Charlie Bucket is a very poor boy who lives with his parents and grandparents. He likes chocolate but only gets one bar every year on his birthday to eat. One day, his father shows him an article in the papers which invites five children to visit Willie Wonka's famous chocolate factory. Only those children who have won a golden ticket in their bar of chocolate are allowed to visit. Charlie wins one of the ticket and then begins Charlie's wonderful, magical adventure.
A great book must read for all kids and adults(with a small child hidden somewhere).
Rating - 5*
Review - Charlie Bucket is a very poor boy who lives with his parents and grandparents. He likes chocolate but only gets one bar every year on his birthday to eat. One day, his father shows him an article in the papers which invites five children to visit Willie Wonka's famous chocolate factory. Only those children who have won a golden ticket in their bar of chocolate are allowed to visit. Charlie wins one of the ticket and then begins Charlie's wonderful, magical adventure.
A great book must read for all kids and adults(with a small child hidden somewhere).
107mausergem
Book 43 - The Chip chip Gatherers by Shiva Naipaul
Rating - 4.5*
Review - This book won the Whitbread Award and is set in Trinadad.
It follows the lives of few Indian origin descendants of sugar cane plantation workers in a village called Victoria. We follow their everyday ordinary lives.
The chip chip gatherers are a clan of villagers who roam territories of beaches to collect the small nail like shells for the merge fleshy part inside them. A full day's collection would yield about a cupful not enough to feed or satiate the hunger of a small child. Still these people collect their chip chips with lots of enthusiasm and protect their territories from others.
Our charecters in this novel also lead a similar life living for merge things but still protecting it with a vigor.
The author has made this seemingly dull set of charecters and a dull story line an unforgivable one for some time to come. A must must read.
Rating - 4.5*
Review - This book won the Whitbread Award and is set in Trinadad.
It follows the lives of few Indian origin descendants of sugar cane plantation workers in a village called Victoria. We follow their everyday ordinary lives.
The chip chip gatherers are a clan of villagers who roam territories of beaches to collect the small nail like shells for the merge fleshy part inside them. A full day's collection would yield about a cupful not enough to feed or satiate the hunger of a small child. Still these people collect their chip chips with lots of enthusiasm and protect their territories from others.
Our charecters in this novel also lead a similar life living for merge things but still protecting it with a vigor.
The author has made this seemingly dull set of charecters and a dull story line an unforgivable one for some time to come. A must must read.
108kidzdoc
Enticing review of The Chip-Chip Gatherers, Gautam. I bought a copy of it in London this summer, and based on your comments I'll definitely read it soon.
109mausergem
Book 44 - Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
Rating - 3*
Review - Charlie Gordon is a mentally handicapped person who works in a bakery and goes to night school to learn how to read and write. He is recommended to take part in a operation to increase his intelligence by his teacher. He is operated on and within weeks his intelligence starts to increase and at the peak of his capacities he realizes that the scientists have made a mistake and this intelligence thing is not ever lasting and will wane. He sees an experimental mouse with a similar operation undergoing regression in his mental capacities and forms a hypothesis and proves his hypothesis. Later as per his prediction he too regresses in his intelligence.
The story is narrates in the first person by Charlie. The author has depicted Charlie's progress both in his vocabulary and spelling beautifully. The scenes with Charlie and his mother are touching. Overall an average read.
Rating - 3*
Review - Charlie Gordon is a mentally handicapped person who works in a bakery and goes to night school to learn how to read and write. He is recommended to take part in a operation to increase his intelligence by his teacher. He is operated on and within weeks his intelligence starts to increase and at the peak of his capacities he realizes that the scientists have made a mistake and this intelligence thing is not ever lasting and will wane. He sees an experimental mouse with a similar operation undergoing regression in his mental capacities and forms a hypothesis and proves his hypothesis. Later as per his prediction he too regresses in his intelligence.
The story is narrates in the first person by Charlie. The author has depicted Charlie's progress both in his vocabulary and spelling beautifully. The scenes with Charlie and his mother are touching. Overall an average read.
110mausergem
Book 45 - The Unexpected Son by Shobhan Bantwal
Rating - 2*
Review - Vinita Shelke-Patil lives in New Jersey with her husband and daughter, when she gets a letter informing her that her son back in India is dying of leukemia and needs urgent bone marrow transplant. She rushes to India against her husband's will where the back story of her illicit affair and the birth of her son is revealed.
It reads like an amateurish work of fiction. The dialogue is flat, the charecters are not well developed and her research about India is lacking. It seems that the author is giving a culinary lesson on Indian especially Marathi cuisine throughout the book. The book is probably not ment to be read by any Indian ans so to me it is total garbage.
Rating - 2*
Review - Vinita Shelke-Patil lives in New Jersey with her husband and daughter, when she gets a letter informing her that her son back in India is dying of leukemia and needs urgent bone marrow transplant. She rushes to India against her husband's will where the back story of her illicit affair and the birth of her son is revealed.
It reads like an amateurish work of fiction. The dialogue is flat, the charecters are not well developed and her research about India is lacking. It seems that the author is giving a culinary lesson on Indian especially Marathi cuisine throughout the book. The book is probably not ment to be read by any Indian ans so to me it is total garbage.
111Donna828
hi Gautam, I can't believe I missed seeing the picture of Malayaj until now. I could get lost in those big brown eyes. What a beautiful boy you have!
Congratulations on reading two 5-star books in a row. Gone With the Wind and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are two of my favorites as well!
Congratulations on reading two 5-star books in a row. Gone With the Wind and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are two of my favorites as well!
112mausergem
Book 46 - The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman
Rating - 5*
Review - This is a story of a newspaper in Rome founded in the 60's and closed down in 2007. In between there are short stories about various people concerned with the paper starting from the obituary writer to the editor, a reader and finally it's publishers. These stories are independent of the goings on of the paper, a little glimpse into their lives.
The stories are brilliant. The dialogue is fantastic. A must read book.
Rating - 5*
Review - This is a story of a newspaper in Rome founded in the 60's and closed down in 2007. In between there are short stories about various people concerned with the paper starting from the obituary writer to the editor, a reader and finally it's publishers. These stories are independent of the goings on of the paper, a little glimpse into their lives.
The stories are brilliant. The dialogue is fantastic. A must read book.
113mausergem
Just finished Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman. It was good. A 3.5* read. Feeling too bored to write a review.
