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3.69 AVERAGE
3.69 AVERAGE
This book was not as well reviewed as Wolfe's previous works but I wanted to like it and therefore did. It is an over the top novel of a business tycon at the top of his game and going down fast. The personalities are huge and the stakes are high. The book could easily been edited down, which I recall was the major complaint of critics, but I enjoyed reading every word.
This is an excellent book that really dives head on into the heart of social tension in America. It touches on race relations, the effects of prisons, the hubris of capitalism, and above all, the arrogance of the powerful. As usual, Tom Wolfe's prose is truly one of a kind, and he especially has quite the way of creating deeply flawed, bombastic characters. It's definitely a long book to make it through, but worthwhile.
A very long read as its a thick book and has small print. When I first started it, I wasn't immediately drawn to the characters or the plot but it turned out to be quite intricately woven story giving you quite a detailed glimpse into several very different people's lives. Once I got into it I had to finish it and I loved the ending.
slow-paced
Loveable characters:
No
Oh man, what a slog! Didn’t enjoy this at all. I picked it up hoping to learn about the Stoics, as I’d seen it referenced somewhere. Big mistake. No likeable characters, and a tedious plot that dragged on for over 700 pages. Need a lively romp for a palette cleanser!
After 'Bonfire of the Vanities' I have to say I hoped for a tremendous read worthy of 5 stars. And it was good, but not as good as I hoped. Great set up, strong characters, but a the conclusion felt rushed and a little too dues ex machina for my taste. Worth the read though, thoroughly enjoyed it.
medium-paced
challenging
emotional
funny
inspiring
reflective
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Who would have thought the Stoics could be so interesting? What a fabulous book.