Reviews

I see where this book may not be for everyone-but I was enchanted by it. Maybe if you aren't a librarian you might not get some of the references or relate quite the same way that I did. This book made me happy and giddy and reminded me why I love my job and to remember on a more regular basis that the people whom I encounter everyday are not just patrons but often become like family. There are kids who have come through my library's doors day after day and then are gone....kids who came in not just for books but just to see a friendly face and talk about their day. I think of them often and wonder how they are faring. I love to see them come back and catch me up. There are kids like Ian whom I have wanted to rescue...this was like a fairy tale for librarians!! ThAnk you Rebecca Makkai!!!

lauraschhh's review against another edition

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3.0

Both whimsical and grating, Makkai did a good job at paying homage to children’s literature and making me want to vomit over the early aughts.

nekreader's review against another edition

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hopeful reflective medium-paced

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

3.0

jenniferavignon's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional tense fast-paced

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

4.0

courtyyjane's review against another edition

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2.0

This book was okay. I liked it enough, but sometimes Lucy seemed to be passive in her own life and allowed Ian, a ten-year old, dictate and run it while she COMMITTED A FELONY. But then, she was like oh, it's too late, I can't do anything to take control of my life and my own choices. He made me do it." Be the adult, Lucy.

jarcher's review against another edition

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2.0

I love Rebecca Makkai but this definitely felt less nuanced than her later works. It was a feel good read that was just a bit too silly for me in places.

chandlcl3590's review against another edition

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3.0

Yet another book that places a lot of emphasis on cherry picking verses of the Bible that we follow and others that we don’t. The plot is overall lacking, but I do agree with the main character’s realization that the reason we can’t change who we are is because we can’t change where we are from.

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