3.58 AVERAGE


The concept of this story is so captivating- evident in the many adaptations of this work. The plot is incredibly fast-paced, filled with twists and turns and surprises throughout, carrying the reader through with the masterful skill of Burroughs’ writing.

Despite clearly being a product of its time in its depictions of racism and sexism, the story does still manage to hold a timeless mirror to society through Tarzan’s view. Barely knowing the Porters and their crew, he continually goes above and beyond in protecting the entire group, even extending to D’Arnot whom he has not even met yet. Contrast this with some of the characters who grew up in society (namely the two sets of ship crews who abandoned the Greystrokes and the Porters along with Canler, Jane’s lamentable intended), there is much to contemplate of the impact civilization’s money and associated greed has on the human character.

As good as eer!

I in no way expected to like this book as much as I did. I didn’t expect, either to be as struck by the romance in the latter half as I was.
They beginning was very slow, as my entire prior knowledge of the Tarzan story revolved around his interactions with Jane and the others. To have the entire first half have nothing to do with them surprised me and opened my eyes to how little I actually knew of the original Tarzan story.

riley_smith's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 6%

Soooo racist and sexist

Good book! I always find it interesting to reflect on the content of a book compared with the character of the person that recommended it to you- all that in mind, I really enjoyed how Burroughs wrapped the relationship drama with Jane Porter. While some of the book was outlandish, obviously, I think many parts were terribly human and I think that's what makes this book so enjoyable.

Excellent book

Tarzan of The Apes is first of the Tarzan series by the great Edgar Rice Burroughs. Born to the marooned English Lord and Lady Greystoke, Tarzan is raised by the great apes of Western Africa after the death of his parents. This book recounts his origins, his growth into manhood, and his first encounters with man. This is an interesting book, well written, and enjoyable.
adventurous challenging dark slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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Method: audiobook

Rating: 3/5 stars
adventurous dark lighthearted tense fast-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: No

Pretty dry; I prefer the Disney adaptation.