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3.55 AVERAGE
3.55 AVERAGE
Perfect novel! I love dark humor and an untrustworthy narrator. Spark’s storytelling and timing are impeccable. Can’t wait to reread.
For the bookclub. Not a poor read and was my introduction to Spark. I've given it 3 stars as it is well-written and paced for a novella. At first glance I thought the novel was to be a "Goodbye Mr. Chips" sort, but the book surprised me as the characters are unveiled. I find the inter-war period fascinating for the legacy and impact of the First World War and then the changing social mores. And then there is the looming disaster of WWII emerging. The movie should be interesting.
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Not that memorable but I don't regret reading it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship
Until a few years ago Jean Brodie was the only of Muriel Spark's novels that I had read. It was a school classic and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. Having reread as an adult, and with her other works in mind I don't think it is as strong as I always believed.
The bewitching tale of a teacher in her Prime and using her students as ciphers for her views and believes is a brilliant premise, and the character of Jean Brodie is probably one of the best in Scottish fiction. However, I don't think Spark's writing style is at its best, and the very long chapters means it can sometimes feel like you aren't going anyway - somewhat frustratingly for a short book!
Definitely a must read but highly recommend exploring more of her back catalogue for brighter work.
The bewitching tale of a teacher in her Prime and using her students as ciphers for her views and believes is a brilliant premise, and the character of Jean Brodie is probably one of the best in Scottish fiction. However, I don't think Spark's writing style is at its best, and the very long chapters means it can sometimes feel like you aren't going anyway - somewhat frustratingly for a short book!
Definitely a must read but highly recommend exploring more of her back catalogue for brighter work.
A Dead Poet's Society -type thing, but with some thorny, icky moral/ethical decisions.
There are only so many times you can say "She was in her prime." and "famous for sex" in 150 pages. This book exceeded that limit.
dark
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes