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3.58 AVERAGE
3.58 AVERAGE
I like books that make you think and this was definitely a novel that I learned a lot from. I wanted to discuss it with the family and friends around me. It was well-researched and had Klosterman's same dry humor that was amusing. It was interesting to see which individuals were included in the book and the reasoning behind why each was considered a villain by society.
3.5 stars because of the writing and the concept, but only 3 because of the execution. I didn't read every essay, but I really liked the author's underlying concept, which is that a villain is someone who knows the most but cares the least. My favorite essay was probably "Without a Gun They Can't Get None," but I also liked the one about DB Cooper.
Some of these essays would be good for a lit/rhetoric class, I think, but heavily edited, because there are some essays where the concepts just don't connect very well. Like there were definitely times where I was like, "Ok, this is a REACH."
Some of these essays would be good for a lit/rhetoric class, I think, but heavily edited, because there are some essays where the concepts just don't connect very well. Like there were definitely times where I was like, "Ok, this is a REACH."
So far this is a nice counter poise to Campbell's Hero with a Thousand Faces
It keeps getting better. Only 50 pages in and this is a must-read
It keeps getting better. Only 50 pages in and this is a must-read
A couple interesting essays, but overall not that great.
not bad, but not his best work. a quick read and worth taking on a plane/the beach, but probably my least favorite book by an aythor i really like.
classic klosterman, just fun to read not sure about any takeaways lol
Entertaining, but ultimately not very cohesive. I didn't come away with a greater understanding of what really makes a villain, but definitely some good anecdotes about generally disliked individuals.
Take a minute and really think about what it takes to be a villain, and then read this book and discover that you are wrong. An amazing ride that is (admittedly sometimes a little far-fetched) as well thought out as it is absolutely ridiculous. I enjoyed every second of this.
There are a lot of words here but none of it seems particularly well thought out. I felt obligated to read this since the author is speaking at my local library next week, presumably in support of this book. I actually accidentally bought IV first (also black cover with white text) and started it next. The difference between the two is striking. Hate to say it but...his older stuff was better.