Reviews

The Elephant Keepers' Children by Martin Aitken, Peter Høeg

jrmarr's review

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4.0

Loads of fun, this book was a joy to read. Reminded me a bit of Jasper Fforde, with its flamboyant use of language and heightened sense of reality. I understand why some wouldn't enjoy it, but for me it was a lovely surprise.

alexisrt's review against another edition

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1.0

I feel a little guilty giving this one star, because I think part of my dislike is that it pushes my personal taste buttons. Despite that, there's just too much wrong with this book. It is an overwritten mess that tries much too hard to be clever. It's meant to be fantastical, but instead is just irritating. Some authors manage to pull off children who know too much, clever names, zany characters, religion, and goodness knows what else... but stuffing it all into one novel with endless sentences is a tall order for the best novelist.

I made myself finish it on principle. If I were not so stubborn, I would have given up in despair.

kat_macwhirter's review against another edition

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5.0

The man's succeeded in addressing his only shortcoming, and making it his strength. Review to follow.

yario's review against another edition

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3.0

adventure story meets Buddhist philosophy. very nice and feel good read.

katia26's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted medium-paced

4.25

esmu's review against another edition

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4.0

A silly book. really. Felt a bit like a children's book though it isn't.

alienem's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

olrite's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

missgab721's review against another edition

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adventurous funny mysterious reflective medium-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

igemona's review against another edition

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adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75