Scan barcode
sumlittlebee's review against another edition
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
slow-paced
4.0
augureader's review against another edition
dark
slow-paced
3.0
This was my first soiree into the world of Colm Toibin, and I have to say… I will have to pick up a few more things. I loved the writing and the perspective these essays gave me. I also think Toibin has an interesting take on his observation of the world. I think it was apt that I started with his non-fiction work, and in a short story format, as I think I am set up well for a full-length fiction book now. I am also very sure that a couple of my friends are going to enjoy buddy reading some of his works with me.
schellenbergk's review
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
3.75
Books of essays are always mixed. There are 3 essays I thought were great: the ones on cancer, Marilyn Robinson, and Venice during the pandemic. The rest are merely very interesting.
charlesfranka's review
reflective
medium-paced
4.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual assault and Child abuse
graywild's review
informative
reflective
fast-paced
2.0
I am not familiar with the writing of Toibin. I did like his style. I am not sure I found engagement in his essays. I think he had some interesting perspectives about the issues in the Catholic Church, especially how the Church deals (or ignores) homosexuality within its ranks. (He is homosexual). He also has some interesting thoughts about Pope Benedict and Pope Francis and how their backgrounds and rise to power might dictate their actions. Unfortunately the majority of the essays just didn't hold it for me, especially the back 1/3 which were reviews of books I was not familiar with. For me not recommended but maybe if you know his work that might be different.