4.15 AVERAGE


A lesson in political history, wrapped in a relatively explicit, though nuanced, takedown of the myth of white/male superiority. Mostly excellent, although the extended post-script would have been better treated as a separate sequel, with greater development of the adult characters and exploration of the opportunities for dramatic irony.
adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous dark emotional sad 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: Complicated
dark emotional inspiring sad slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
challenging emotional tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
slow-paced

My expectations were too high.  Well written.

Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars

This is a book chock full of things to learn, revelations, observations. I finished it with the feeling that I missed something, that I needed to go back and read it again. Someday, I will. It’s one of those books high in re-read value; you’ll get something new from it each time you crack the spine.

The writing was absolutely stunning. Vivid. Poetic. Haunting. Reflective. Each character dynamic in her own way. Each voice growing as the story progressed from what felt like a novel to reflections and updates through journal entries.

It is clear to me why “The Poisonwood Bible” is praised by so many and I’m adding my voice to that. Please take the opportunity to read it if you get the chance. You will not be disappointed.
challenging dark reflective slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

The first half was far better than the second. The characters, especially Rachael, got stale and preachy during the second half. I think Kingsolver should have stopped with them leaving the jungle.
challenging sad tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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