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3.69 AVERAGE
3.69 AVERAGE
funny
slow-paced
Bill Bryson's "Notes From A Small Island" presents a blend of humor and personal reflections on his travels across Britain, yet many readers express mixed feelings about the book.
On one hand, Bryson's knack for witty storytelling shines through, particularly in the early chapters where he describes 1970s bed and breakfast establishments, evoking genuine laughter. His observations about British culture and idiosyncrasies provide interesting insights, especially for those unfamiliar with the country. However, as the narrative progresses, some readers find the humor diminishing and the writing becoming repetitive.
Bryson's travels date back to the 70s and 80s, and he often seems surprised by the changes that have occurred over the past 50 years. This perspective can feel outdated, leading to a disconnect for readers who recognize that many aspects of Britain have evolved significantly. His frequent critiques of modern architecture and expressions of contempt for certain locations come off as snobbish or rude, detracting from the overall experience.
Several reviewers mention that Bryson's travel anecdotes can feel disjointed, particularly when he ventures to places he hasn't previously visited, often leading to complaints about transportation and prices. This results in a sense of frustration for readers who find his gripes tedious and overly critical. Many agree that by the end of the book, the descriptions of various towns blend together, rendering them bland and forgettable.
While some readers enjoyed the insights Bryson offers, particularly those who appreciate travelogues, others felt disappointed, especially if they had high expectations based on his previous works. Despite enjoying his other books, many conclude that this one will be returning to the charity shop. It serves as a light read filled with amusing moments, but ultimately leaves readers wishing for the sharper wit and engaging narratives found in Bryson's earlier works.
On one hand, Bryson's knack for witty storytelling shines through, particularly in the early chapters where he describes 1970s bed and breakfast establishments, evoking genuine laughter. His observations about British culture and idiosyncrasies provide interesting insights, especially for those unfamiliar with the country. However, as the narrative progresses, some readers find the humor diminishing and the writing becoming repetitive.
Bryson's travels date back to the 70s and 80s, and he often seems surprised by the changes that have occurred over the past 50 years. This perspective can feel outdated, leading to a disconnect for readers who recognize that many aspects of Britain have evolved significantly. His frequent critiques of modern architecture and expressions of contempt for certain locations come off as snobbish or rude, detracting from the overall experience.
Several reviewers mention that Bryson's travel anecdotes can feel disjointed, particularly when he ventures to places he hasn't previously visited, often leading to complaints about transportation and prices. This results in a sense of frustration for readers who find his gripes tedious and overly critical. Many agree that by the end of the book, the descriptions of various towns blend together, rendering them bland and forgettable.
While some readers enjoyed the insights Bryson offers, particularly those who appreciate travelogues, others felt disappointed, especially if they had high expectations based on his previous works. Despite enjoying his other books, many conclude that this one will be returning to the charity shop. It serves as a light read filled with amusing moments, but ultimately leaves readers wishing for the sharper wit and engaging narratives found in Bryson's earlier works.
I usually love Bill Bryson's travel books. Sadly, this one was really boring and filled with English references and vocabulary you obviously have to be British to appreciate. On top of this, he does not paint a pretty picture of Britain, he is miserable and alone the entire trip, does nothing but walk around in the rain and get drunk in a pub at night. Bryson somehow managed to write an entire book about this, and im not sure how. Despite all this, he decides at the end of the book that he loves England and everything about it. Nothing about this book made me want to go to England or visit any of the places he visited. In fact I have been to England several times and loved it, Bryson got this one very wrong.
The few highlights of the book are the witty and hilarious tangents he goes off on that have nothing to do with England.
this is one Bryson book to skip, I would recommend In a Sunburned Country or A Walk in the Woods instead.
The few highlights of the book are the witty and hilarious tangents he goes off on that have nothing to do with England.
this is one Bryson book to skip, I would recommend In a Sunburned Country or A Walk in the Woods instead.
Boek begint verouderd te worden. Beetje langdradig en seksistisch.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
funny
informative
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
Cozy. This is the third book I’ve read from Bill Bryson, and a reminder that I like him.
funny
informative
relaxing
medium-paced
emotional
informative
tense
fast-paced
Started and finished date - 22.06.25 to 24.06.25.
My rating - Two Stars.
I found this book to be boring read and I didn't love it. Both written and and the paced of plot was bit too slow for my liking.
My rating - Two Stars.
I found this book to be boring read and I didn't love it. Both written and and the paced of plot was bit too slow for my liking.
Slow but I would keep reading, and be rewarded with a laugh out loud joke pointing out the vast differences in cultures. A fun read sparked by a book club, and Bryson is indeed an excellent writer.
funny
informative
lighthearted
medium-paced