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3.52 AVERAGE
3.52 AVERAGE
Raw, candid and heartfelt, Jennifer Weiner’s fictional novel "All Fall Down" may as well be biographical. She vividly explores the life of a desperate mother, wife, writer…human. Protagonist, Allison’s slow and steady demise draws the reader into the black whole of addiction. You’ll compulsively read this novel cover-to-cover, unable to kick the habit.
The good overall was pretty good and tackles a very difficult topic. However, I felt that the slide into addiction was a little forced and unbelievable. Also, the events that lead her to seek help are not that compelling and I wish there was a little more development.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
3.5 stars. I'm not sure I ever really believed that the main character's addiction would increase so quickly without more serious repercussions. And I saw the big "surprise" coming for about 150 pages. But Jennifer Weiner is a terrific writer and always tells a great story.
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
There are painfully few writers whose new releases I will stalk all year until they are available for pre-order. Jen is one of them and this one is one of her best yet. I appreciate her willingness to deal with real and current issues instead of slinking into the "chick lit" cookie-cutter plot. I appreciate that the ending wasn't entirely clean and happy, that there are still loose ends that aren't tied up. The protagonist's descent wasn't quite as daring as Jen might have been with it; her "rock bottom" was relatively clean and tidy, but the point was made and the focus on Allison's character and personality was well-rounded. In my personal definitive ranking of Jen's books I would put this one just behind Then Came You and The Next Best Thing (although I do have a very soft spot for Cannie and Joy--don't we all?).
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Jennifer Weiner is an excellent author in my opinion and this book did not disappoint when it comes to fully developed characters, rich dialog, and interesting plot lines. However, I found myself skipping certain passages because of the soft-porn nature. I understand that it's part of the story but it's just not necessary (in my opinion) to go on for pages with that level of detail. I suppose in the era of 50 Shades of Gray that this is to be expected, but I found it distracting as well as detracting from the overall value of the story. Still a great author but I will likely be more selective with her books in the future.
This book is unlike others by this other. It's not an easy read but it's a great read. It deals with addiction and provides that it's a disease than can affect anyone. Great look into a life that many would rather ignore.
Right there with her. About a woman with a pills addiction. I have an addiction too. Only mine is delicious yarn and potato chips.