Reviews

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

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chickenlil64's review against another edition

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5.0

Often wordy but also absolutely brilliant. I want James Hobart to be my dad.

jambonumber5's review against another edition

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5.0

Totally brilliant - a classic. Beautifully written and can be many things - a page turner, an essay on art, or a 1am conversation with a friend about life and death. Not perfect but bloody close.

omio's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional reflective sad

5.0

One of the hardest books I’ve read as it’s so tormenting. One of the best books I’ve read.

cool_catz's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

shaleen64's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

At nearly 900 pages it’s a book that requires dedication and is not for the casual reader. The story itself could have been told in half the number of pages however the value of this book comes from is detailed descriptions of the characters, their lives and what has shaped them into the people they are. There are several unexpected moments that will leave you shocked, saddened and hopeful. Even with its length I always found myself engaged and keen to read on, but can see how for others it would be too slow paced and a drag to continue. However, the book is beautifully written and is real food for thought (especially the final few pages).

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