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3.58 AVERAGE
3.58 AVERAGE
I stumbled upon this book at the library while looking for a small & short book for the beach. So glad I did. Though I didn’t get the Murakami references (having never read him), it didn’t matter. I loved the voice, the short chapters, and the lead character, Leah, whom I was rooting for the whole time. The story never felt predictable—it was truly an adventure—with a touch of magic realism thrown in (which I guess was the Murakami homage). Off to read her other novels now!
The storytelling is unusual, because the reader never finds out certain things like why the main character does the things she does, what the make and model of the car are, or what the novel she's written is like. But the tone and style of this book make for a compelling and fun read. I will definitely try to get my hands on some more of Dermansky's writing.
Read it a few years ago and really liked it. Writing was a little wild. Went on to read some of her other books. Liked this best.
This fascinating novel is a quick read, but gives you much to ponder. Leah, a quirky, intelligent young woman began her life and her dreams of becoming writer with much encouragement from her boss and mentor, but now finds herself stuck in a rut, married to a controlling man that she may not love. The death of her mentor and the unexpected gift of a mysterious red sports car leads her to take another look at her life. Dermansky's deceptively simple writing style takes a bit of time to get used to, but stick with it -- you'll have a great journey of discovery along with Leah. -- Louisa A.
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
medium-paced
Enjoyed this quick read quite a bit. There’s a touch of fantasy, just enough, which helps the main character Leah to move along in her journey of self realization. The ending is open and I think that is appropriate for this story.
I love this writer so much. Her writing is excellent; pared back, funny. Her characters are just so detailed and real and the stories are just a wild ride.
Once again I enjoyed every word of this.
(Once again because I read Very Nice relatively recently.)
Once again I enjoyed every word of this.
(Once again because I read Very Nice relatively recently.)
In the sea of earnest, over-plotted, cloyingly "witty" and ultimately forgettable contemporary fiction, Dermansky is acerbic salvation.
Enjoyable, entertaining, touching.
(but annoyed with all the typos)
(but annoyed with all the typos)