Reviews

I think this was one of the hardest book I have ever read. Maybe THE hardest.

I never read any book from magical realism genre nor I even heard who Gabriel Garcia Marquez is before. Which was a shame since he is one of Nobel Literature laureate (also reminds me to read more books from awards winners).

The Buendias are a family with loose morals and could commit any sins you could imagine. But what makes this family interesting is, everyone commit the same sins their namesakes did before. Even when they have choices to not do so, THEY STILL DID (!!!). You wouldn’t see a family as messed up as Buendias.

Although the story doesn’t really make any senses, it still one of the most acclaimed book in history (especially or Latin America). There are A LOT of Columbian/Latin America references on the book. From gypsies, naming kids using their parents/grandparents names, how women being the one in charge of the family. So many references that I could feel related to as Asian.

sienna8's review against another edition

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Plot- or character-driven? Character
Loveable characters? No

2.5

berrycreampuffs's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging mysterious reflective sad slow-paced

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

4.25

I admire Marquez's style and creativity. This book was difficult to follow and I am certain that I did not understand this book enough; therefore, I look forward to a future re-read. Nevertheless, I know that I loved this book for its fantastical worldbuilding, the intriguing characters, and the incredible message regarding the importance of community, change, and the sometimes necessary disruption of the cyclical patterns of life. I feel a special affinity towards Macondo-- the mystical town that housed casual magical events-- its rise and fall gave me excitement and also despair. And shoutout to Ursula Iguaran, that's my homegirl!