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3.86 AVERAGE
3.86 AVERAGE
The simultaneous depth and smallness of life in a book.
So tell me, why did I wait so long to read this man! Of course he can write, you can’t all be wrong.
I have to confess that I was a little worried in the beginning; the first 80 pages or so weren’t calling to me - it was a worrying time, I tell you
I have to confess that I was a little worried in the beginning; the first 80 pages or so weren’t calling to me - it was a worrying time, I tell you
Man… I am so glad that is finished and so frustrated that it went on so long and went no where. If this book hadn’t been for book club it would be in my DNF pile. Like lots of others I loved Atonement but this book just went on, and on and on. It was basically a man’s life from about 13/14 years of age right through to his 70’s and EVERYTHING that he experienced and it felt like he was involved in all historical occurrences during his life. Yes, there were some horrible things that he went through but it was just written like they occurred and he endured and I guessing eventually he dies. This book went on far too long and just didn’t need to examine this man’s life in minute detail. I feel like Ian McEwan is such a big name author no one is going to edit his work, or he won’t let anyone edit it. Shame it could have been better if it was more to a particular point.
Awful boomer navel gazing. This is the 7th Ian McEwan book I've read, and easily the worst.
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-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
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book is long and filled with a lot of stuffy prose. However, I really enjoyed it. It's about a man, Roland and his life experiences. Having an affair when younger and having his wife leave him with a baby when older and what these experiences do to shape his life. I read through it fast because it was interesting, but some of the long winded prose I glossed over.
I'm not sure why but I really wanted to hate this book, yet by the end I felt as though it had changed my own perspective on life
A life spent holding out for something better. Convinced that something great or meaningful or thrilling was imminent. The intensity of youth. And middle age, where one is seeing in their parents what their own life may become. Contemplating your past, present and future self.
I love this. At some points it seemed to drag, but ultimately it is one of McEwan's best books. Beautiful writing, and a solid tale of a life lived. 4.5