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book_busy's review against another edition
4.0
A grim and extensive look into nearly every flavour of American there is. I wish we got more of an insight into the life of Rufus but I suppose that's exactly what I'm supposed to feel. It's amazing how unique and full of vivacity Baldwin's turn of phrase is. I've never read something quite like it. It's like I can hear the words as they appear on the page. This book took a while for me to finish but was rewarding in its termination.
kfreedman's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Each chapter focuses on a new character in chronological order. They mix and overlap here and there - a group of friends in New York City, one of whom returns after many years in France. Black, white, queer. Affairs. Like much of Baldwin's writing, he gets into the minds, motivations and anguishes of the characters for both the mundane and the intense moments in a relationship.
caitlinjrchurch's review against another edition
challenging
dark
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
This was gruelling yet beautifully written. A painful read, especially in regard to the female characters (I know many have also felt this) but Baldwin’s mastery of words is something to behold.
mazzie's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
4.25
sam_alex04's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
jenniey3's review against another edition
5.0
>>>Giovanni’s Room which is a feat beyond comprehension
Finally someone understands how I feel about NY.
Finally someone understands how I feel about NY.
iluxia's review against another edition
5.0
"Vivaldo dreamed that he was running, running, running, through a country he had always known, but could not now remember, a rocky country."
This story is an emotional, visceral meditation on how little color matters when it comes to people experiencing life - and yet at the same time, how much color matters when it comes to the life people experience. Gorgeously written and perfectly paced, Baldwin here showcases his superb command of prose. Hard to find a writer this good these days.
This story is an emotional, visceral meditation on how little color matters when it comes to people experiencing life - and yet at the same time, how much color matters when it comes to the life people experience. Gorgeously written and perfectly paced, Baldwin here showcases his superb command of prose. Hard to find a writer this good these days.