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3.76 AVERAGE
3.76 AVERAGE
I requested Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler from NetGalley because Jojo Moyes recommended it on twitter. Weeks went by and then after I had accepted that I wouldn't get approved for it, there was the email in my inbox saying I could download it. And, I'm so happy I did. I loved this story, it is centered around five friends from Wisconsin and one of them, Lee, becomes a famous musician who goes by the name Corvus. His story I'm sure is inspired by the real musician, Bon Iver. Lee never loses his ties to his hometown. When he's not touring that's where he lives, he returns to his roots because that's where his inspiration comes from. I think I loved this story so much because Butler wove such a beautiful tapestry of what it's like being from the Midwest. I also loved these characters and was thinking about them when I wasn't reading the book, it's been awhile since that happened. I loved how beautifully the story wove in and out of their present and their past. This book might not feel perfect for everybody, but it was for me. So thank you Jojo Moyes and NetGalley.
Not much happens, but it's still an enjoyable read about midwestern small town relationships.
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A wonderful debut novel. This novel paints a picture of contrasts: Small town life and dreams versus big city/world aspirations, happy-go-lucky youthful friendships versus grown-up realities that make one wonder can we still be friends. I especially enjoyed the characters and setting. Goes down like refreshing lemonade on a hot summer day. Great beach read! –Amy O.
I don't know how this ended up on my to-reads list, probably just the Wisconsin element. The whole premise was something that made me be like, why did I get this? In such it was hetero-normative, written by a white man, rural in theme, etc.
But, I overall I actually really enjoyed it. It felt human and in many ways nothing happened, but it also touched on the stories of these individual friends in this small town. It is very much along the lines of what I do like to read.
But, I overall I actually really enjoyed it. It felt human and in many ways nothing happened, but it also touched on the stories of these individual friends in this small town. It is very much along the lines of what I do like to read.
Felt very honest, but really a terrible book to read when you’ve just broken up with someone because he didn’t want kids.
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Essentially the story of 4 guys and a girl from rural Wisconsin some who left some who stayed all who return at various times to re-connect with the land that formed them. Told in the voice of the main characters with glimpses into their past. One of the most moving, heartfelt reads of the year. Movie rights have been optioned but you should read it first.