Reviews

[1988] I didn't not like this book, I thought it was okay, maybe 2.75 stars? This is the second book by this author that I have read and felt lukewarm about (the other was Never Let Me Go). I found this one very one-note. The message - the role of the butler as the consummate professional - was relentless. The main character is perfect, never cracks, never stumbles - although he does have moments of doubt when it comes to some personal interactions, I suppose - which makes him a really nice but not a very interesting character. I didn't fully buy/understand the relationship between the two main characters, so there was no real tension there for me. I'm not sure that the journey, with the stops in different villages along the way, was the right plot device for telling this story, that is to say, a story that was told solely through reminiscence. There is something sweet and lovely about it, however, and I do see why so many people like it so much.

fbarros's review against another edition

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emotional funny informative reflective

5.0

This novel is a soft story about duty, dignity, and all the complicated feelings that come with them, told through the eyes of an English butler.

Mr. Stevens can be a bit full of himself, but in an endearing way. His dedication to his job at Darlington Hall and his strong belief in the importance of his work make him both admirable and a little pitful. His interactions with Miss Kenton, especially her fiery temper, made me laugh. Miss Kenton’s outbursts when people question her work are so relatable and funny. I could easily see myself reacting the same way if people started questioning me on how I do my job.

The book takes us on a journey through the English countryside and through key moments in history from the 1920s to the 1950s. It's fascinating to see these events through the eyes of a butler who served a lord ( I also loved the bits about the English and the French not getting along).

I really liked how Lord Darlington's opinions contrast with Mr. Stevens' loyalty. It shows how loyalty can sometimes make people ignore their own beliefs, leading to tough moral choices. The discussions about what dignity means and how to achieve it, even if given on a norrow perspective, are really thought-provoking and made me reflect on my own ideas about dignity.

This book also hit very close to home because my grandfather was a butler for a Portuguese count in the 1930s. It made me feel a connection to him that I didn’t expect, which made the book even more special.

It was really a wonderful surprise.

abbydoris's review

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emotional reflective sad slow-paced

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

4.0

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