Scan barcode
blau_elmo's review against another edition
emotional
informative
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Informative, gave me a lot of insight into the history of Algeria, in particular their struggle for independence. Made me aware of the Sétif Massacre as well, and the subjugation the Algerians experienced in Paris.
I also got to know about Edmond Charlot and the writers within his realm at the time, centered around the Mediterranean. A story about loss, time, changes and such, it is not so much an attack of gentrification as a poignant resignation to its occurrence.
A short read too, quite enjoyable and enlightening.
I also got to know about Edmond Charlot and the writers within his realm at the time, centered around the Mediterranean. A story about loss, time, changes and such, it is not so much an attack of gentrification as a poignant resignation to its occurrence.
A short read too, quite enjoyable and enlightening.
Content Warnings
Minor: War, Violence, and Colonisation
kaneebli's review
reflective
medium-paced
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Xenophobia, Racism, Colonisation, Genocide, and War
booksnest's review against another edition
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-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? No
4.0
A Bookshop in Algiers follows two timelines as we see the creation and then ruin of a bookshop that once felt like the heart of so many bibliophiles. Going between the 1930’s-1960’s and present day, we see two different characters and their relationships with books, and how books change them.
I really enjoyed the way this book went between these two timelines, whilst also inserting cultural and political turmoil into the shaping of the plot. We saw a very personal insight into part of Algeria’s history, as well as a perspective offering a wider view on this political unrest. All the while not feeling daunting or like it was belittling the reader in anyway. This is a moment in history I don’t know too much about, but I now feel compelled to learn more.
I loved this novel for its timeless adoration of literature. Stories withstand throughout all and that is truly beautiful. “Literature, at least, will never abandon me” being a fantastic quote to stand by this. There is so much gorgeous writing in this book, a credit to the Adimi, but also to Chris Andrews, the translator.
A beautiful book with a true respect for writing and passion. It was a delight to read and made me fall in love with reading even more.
I really enjoyed the way this book went between these two timelines, whilst also inserting cultural and political turmoil into the shaping of the plot. We saw a very personal insight into part of Algeria’s history, as well as a perspective offering a wider view on this political unrest. All the while not feeling daunting or like it was belittling the reader in anyway. This is a moment in history I don’t know too much about, but I now feel compelled to learn more.
I loved this novel for its timeless adoration of literature. Stories withstand throughout all and that is truly beautiful. “Literature, at least, will never abandon me” being a fantastic quote to stand by this. There is so much gorgeous writing in this book, a credit to the Adimi, but also to Chris Andrews, the translator.
A beautiful book with a true respect for writing and passion. It was a delight to read and made me fall in love with reading even more.
Content Warnings
Moderate: War
morebedsidebooks's review
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Police brutality, Colonisation, Murder, Violence, and War
Minor: Racial slurs
Also contains descriptions of massacres, terrorism and instances of a homophobic slur.
More...