Reviews

Bliss and Other Stories by Katherine Mansfield

terppsi's review against another edition

emotional reflective fast-paced

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

5.0

susie_reads's review against another edition

challenging dark funny reflective relaxing sad fast-paced

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

4.5

Lyrical language

thestoryofaz's review against another edition

dark emotional reflective medium-paced

4.75

I am not altogether sure whether I love this more than "The Garden Party and Other Stories" so I shall give it the same rating as "The Garden...". I feel as though some of the stories in this collection are more ambitious and experimental than those in "The Garden...". I especially loved "Je Ne Parle Pas Français", "Prelude", "Bliss", "Mr. Reginald Peacock's Day", and "The Little Governess" (the last two were uncomfortable reads owing to their subject matters). 

orangetea's review against another edition

reflective medium-paced

3.0

foldingthepage_kayleigh's review against another edition

emotional lighthearted reflective medium-paced

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

4.75

All of rhese stories were beautifully written. Katherine Mansfield takes the reader on a journey through the characters’ daily lives, delving into their inner thoughts and perceptions in such an immersive manner that fosters empathy and connection. I especially liked the first 3 stories: Bliss, Mr Reginald Peacock’s Day and Pictures. 

I read this through the Audrey app, which featured a guide to expand your understanding of and connections to classic works of literature. The guide helped to pull out some pieces I wouldn’t have noticed (e.g. the fashion) and helped to highlight the important symbols in the story. I especially liked the art and voice notes that accompanied each story. I’ll definitely use this app in the future as I feel like it really helped me to enjoy the stories more. 

If you do listen to this book, I’d really recommend the Juliet Stevenson edition. Her expert narration shows off her acting chops, making you wanting to listen and re-listen to these stories just to hear the nuances in her voice. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Sexual harassment, Infidelity, and Misogyny

kaylo88's review against another edition

emotional reflective medium-paced

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

3.0

whitelotusreads's review against another edition

reflective fast-paced

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

4.0

adina98's review against another edition

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No

4.25

judyflutey's review against another edition

dark sad tense fast-paced

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

4.0

musingsbynitika's review against another edition

emotional hopeful informative reflective sad medium-paced

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

4.0

4 stars overall, individual story ratings below 

What a beautiful collection of classic short stories, first published in 1920 (104 years ago) that depict little slices of life! I adored Katherine Mansfield's vibrant characters and captivating descriptions. This was such a thought-provoking and memorable audiobook, with exquisitely immersive narration by Juliet Stevenson.

I love reading Audrey audiobooks because they infuse so much fun with insightful nuggets of information, a Spotify playlist, and beautiful illustrations. The Audrey recaps, character descriptions and connections are so handy while reading. It's like having a clever and aesthetic book club on your phone, thanks to these brilliant people! 
Guide: Sophie Corser 
Illustrator: Rosie Leech 

🍐 Bliss ☆☆☆☆
🦚 Mr. Reginald Peacock's Day ☆☆☆ 
📽 Pictures ☆☆☆☆☆
🍓 The Little Governess ☆☆☆☆☆ (my fave)
🥚 Feuille d'Album ☆☆☆
🪻 A Dill Pickle ☆☆☆☆☆ 

💝 Thank you to Lucy & the Audrey team for a gifted copy of this wonderful audiobook! Check out their great collection of afforadable audiobooks by downloading the Audrey app from your Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or sign up to their monthly listen alongs on the StoryGraph for a community experience.