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4.42 AVERAGE
4.42 AVERAGE
emotional
medium-paced
A better novel than the first, in my opinion. Every character has flaws (numerous and sizable for some) as well as redeemable qualities, and ultimately is lovable... In the end you cheer for each. For all. Some of Backman's dialogue I find difficult to believe. Could be a translation thing. Some of his philosophizing, too, makes me scratch my head in uncertainty. However, most of both, plus most of his imagery, comprises great writing and insight. Looking forward to reading the final book in the BEAR TOWN series: WINNERS.
emotional
medium-paced
I don’t think Beartown needed a sequel but I’m already attached to this world and characters, so I’m not complaining, lol. It felt a bit slow, definitely for the first hundred or so pages, but the brilliant writing and characters helped me not to notice too much.
I asked for more Benji, and I was not disappointed. Man, oh, man...this book was fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one and was blown away by the writing, but this one didn't just take the cake, it decided to open its own dang bakery. The characters were multi-dimensional, complex, relatable, lovable, and had ample opportunities to grow and mature. I was so happy to see my favorite characters back in action this go around, and the story lines from the first book played out seamlessly in the sequel. There was one BIG passing note from the end of the first book that didn't really get explained completely in this one, but I'll forgive it because I'm pretty sure where it was going would have crushed my heart anyway. Y'all, if you love sports, rivalries, coming of age stories, small town life, facing adversity, braving the elements, and found family, you will be head over heels for these books. I listened to them as audiobooks, but I plan on getting hard copies to go back through and annotate. There were SO many beautiful lines and quotes that I never want to forget. The writing is so well done and sophisticated while also never going over your head. I said it the first time but I'll say it again, I cannot believe I've never tried Backman before now! These books may soon be added to my yearly reread stack. Please read these books; you will not regret it.
emotional
hopeful
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:
Yes
dark
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
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:
Yes
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No