Scan barcode
chitownbookworm's review against another edition
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
billymac1962's review against another edition
3.0
I had been meaning to read Elmore Leonard for years, ever since seeing movies like Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. I knew Quentin Tarantino was a big fan and was heavily influenced by Leonard. So, after much surfing and emailing, I determined Get Shorty was likely the best novel to start with. It was pretty good, but a really light read.
What makes Leonard's writing shine is the dialogue; you've heard the overused "dialogue crackles" rave? Well Leonard really delivers...this is why his novels make such successful movies: they read like them.
This is a novel perfect for those who typically prefer movies over novels.
I prefer the depth of Michael Connelly or Greg Iles or Dennis Lehane myself. But this is an entertaining story and certainly holds your attention, and before you know it, it's over.
Just like a good movie.
What makes Leonard's writing shine is the dialogue; you've heard the overused "dialogue crackles" rave? Well Leonard really delivers...this is why his novels make such successful movies: they read like them.
This is a novel perfect for those who typically prefer movies over novels.
I prefer the depth of Michael Connelly or Greg Iles or Dennis Lehane myself. But this is an entertaining story and certainly holds your attention, and before you know it, it's over.
Just like a good movie.
franchescanado's review
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
4.0
A fun, lightly cynical book on late-80's/early-90's Hollywood film industry. Enjoyable characters in a propulsive tongue-in-cheek self-effacing plot. The highs could be higher, but I had such a good time with it.
kingarooski's review
3.0
In an unusual turn of events, I watched the film before reading the book. I remember really enjoying the film, but the book was ok. It moves fairly quickly and Chili Palmer is a likeable character. The book was quite funny in places and satisfied my need for a light, enjoyable read.
ameserole's review
3.0
Okay, so I'm just going to say this now.. I have seen the movie. I honestly didn't even know that it was a book. So, yeah, I'm saying it loud and proud that I have seen the movie first and I am okay.
Get Shorty was kind of a funny book. I feel like I liked the movie a bit more just because I've seen it so many times. Both are all kinds of chaos but it seems to work at the same time. I never found myself bored while reading this. Just like I never found myself bored while watching it either. Plus the sarcasm just made the book that much better. I mean the whole thing will just make you giggle.
So it's safe to say that the characters are all likable and hilarious. I had no idea what I was going to get next when it came to them. They just kept me on my toes and it made this book a real page turner. I'm definitely happy that I came across this book and now I really want to re-watch the movie.
In the end, I think I might dive into the sequel if I can find it.
Get Shorty was kind of a funny book. I feel like I liked the movie a bit more just because I've seen it so many times. Both are all kinds of chaos but it seems to work at the same time. I never found myself bored while reading this. Just like I never found myself bored while watching it either. Plus the sarcasm just made the book that much better. I mean the whole thing will just make you giggle.
So it's safe to say that the characters are all likable and hilarious. I had no idea what I was going to get next when it came to them. They just kept me on my toes and it made this book a real page turner. I'm definitely happy that I came across this book and now I really want to re-watch the movie.
In the end, I think I might dive into the sequel if I can find it.
justpotato's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
theflamingopriss's review against another edition
funny
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? It's complicated
3.75
shahbakht's review against another edition
4.0
Only my second Leonard novel and I am already in love. The dialogues, personalities and characters just leap off the page. I couldn't think of a more original compliment.
professorfate's review against another edition
4.0
I'm glad I finally got to read an Elmore Leonard book. I wish his death hadn't been the occasion to finally read him, but I will definitely look for more.