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Page-turner

Revisado: 07-23-24

There are few authors who can make life's ordinary trials feel extraordinary, who can create fully real human characters in a way that makes it seem as if they're in your own life for a time, that you've known someone just like them, and that the unfolding story is insidious, like real life, unlike some 'plot' that feels contrived--but that has a plot, nonetheless; there are no wasted words that don't somehow contribute to the progress of the story. Lombardo's writing style is at once beautiful and accessible, and uniquely her own. Thank you to the well-chosen narrators whom can make or break any book.

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Beautifully written Historical Fiction

Revisado: 07-18-23

I read as a writer and as someone who is more often drawn to historical fiction as a means of becoming more educated. It takes a lot of work to research history well enough to tell it through the eyes of a plausible character without distorting true events. Diaz expertly weaves themes of class, gender inequality, oppressive & neglectful parenting & marriage; grief & loss; greed, a-typical learning acuity...and the constant misunderstandings in human relationships--the very same struggles throughout time (1879-today). I don’t understand the negative reviews . No wasted words here; everything written moves the plot forward; suspense without confusion. There are very few books of which I want a written copy after listening on Audible. This one is, most certainly, one of those, a well-deserved Pulitzer Prize.

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Great novel after My Octopus Teacher (documentary)

Revisado: 03-01-23

Believable, well-developed characters making their unique way through some of life's most significant traumas. Marcellus, the octopus, gives us a much-needed outside perspective of human frailty and its many shortcomings. Plenty of humor.Terrific listen!

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Best of this series ever

Revisado: 02-28-23

I've never read completely any of the Best American Essays, or Best American Short Stories, for that matter. Over several attempts at the last 15+ editions, I've come to understand the Editor is as--if not more-- important than the authors and their essays/stories. Apparently, Chee and I have similar literary tastes. These essays divert from the traditional, research-heavy style, which can leave readers flipping the pages if the specific topic isn't of great interest, no matter the strength of its other attributes. They read like academic essays, rather than personal ones. This compilation is not only contemporary in its memoir-esque, and in some, lyrical style, but the collection represents the most daunting issues of our day. But it does so artistically. Never has a volume, of essays especially, struck me as a true piece of art. Everyone should read this book and everyone could; each author's story evokes thoughtful contemplation and compassion, without pushing an agenda.

The only category I gave less than 5 stars was for narration. I listen to a lot of books and narration can make or break my ability to stay with it. Because these essays are individually short compared to a novel, and because the writing is so beautiful, I listened 'through' a few of the voices, about 3-4 of them, not too terrible.

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Beautifully exquisite writing

Revisado: 11-23-20

Miller brings Greek mythology alive in a way most of us have never experienced. Read it or Listen to it; Frazer Douglas has a voice and cadence to match her writing.

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Chapter on Smartphones & Porn--a must read!

Revisado: 04-22-20

In an era where parents are giving their boys Smartphones too young, this information is vital. But that's not all--it was just the topic that was most eye-opening. Don't let the 2nd Chapter, which seems to go on a tangent about girls derail you. if necessary, skip to the next chapter. The rest of the book is well worth it. This information is relevant, science-based, easy to digest. A must-read for anyone with a boy--at any age, especially 8 yrs old and up.

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fantastic

Revisado: 10-01-19

This beautiful story allows the reader to have some detailed sense of Botswana, from setting and cultural details to the narration--without overburdening the story--but enough that makes me want to visit. (Some books spend so much time on setting that the reader is bored before they can become engaged with the story.) This author adds only the richest details that propel the story forward and add meaning. I didn't want it to end and liked it so much, I'm going to buy a printed book.

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Enlightening

Revisado: 04-10-19

McGee fills in all the the things I had and had not considered. I wish I'd had all of these details and insight when I was a high school student and much later, a graduate student. A must-read/listen for all of us,traditionally college-bound or not--McGee's and many other contributors' experiences keep it interesting & well-paced, as well as informative.

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Exquisitely written

Revisado: 03-13-19

From the plot, to character development and pacing, this story is refreshing and extraordinarily told-- a page turner and must-read (listen.)

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Possibly the best memoir I've ever read

Revisado: 01-14-19

You'll learn details you didn't already know about our political history and our former President, all while wishing you had a friend like Michelle, so likeable, loyal, and intelligent. (Her parents are/were incredible people, as well.) She lets you into her personal life story in an unexpected way, more vulnerable, funny, and honest than anyone I've read...and I've read more than a few memoirs. Michelle is so thoughtfully accomplished, an unforgettable leader and role model in her own right. This well-structured book is truly a page-turner. Thank you, Michelle, for sharing it with all of us and helping this discouraged woman find a bit of hope.

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