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annemariewhelehan's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
@solennsbooknook has brought us on an engaging George Orwell journey. First up was 1984, then a reimagining of that book from a character in the book called Julia (Julia by Sandra Newman). Lastly was this book, which is on the Women’s Prize non-fiction long list.
The author tries to recreate the story of Orwell’s wife, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, based on letters and other biographies.
Initially, I found it difficult to get into, as the author was covering Orwell’s life, his biographers take on his life, letters to/from Eileen from different people and indeed aspects of the authors own life. But once you get into it, it was fascinating.
I was left with a complete hatred of Orwell to such an extent that I’m not sure I’ll ever read one of his books again. He is painted as a completely despicable husband. No matter how much of a perceived genius one is, doesn’t mean they should be allowed to treat people (mainly his wife) as horribly as he did.
A fascinating five star read for me.
theunrealerin's review against another edition
4.0
Really good interrogation of patriarchy and the role of women in men's art through the prism of Orwell. At times a little too much insertion of the personal and the inferences from text were a bit uneven.
annrhub's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
5.0
remainingwesty's review against another edition
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
3.5
laurengent's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.75
An enlightening backstory of George Orwell’s life Eileen, her impact on his life and work, and her erasure from his writings and biographies. Wider themes about the erasure of women from history and from men’s lives. Fascinating with an engaging writing style.
shinyscout's review against another edition
Started getting irritated by the reminders that Eileen was “removed” from the story.
oenophile_bibliophile's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
5.0
janiswong's review against another edition
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.75
Phenomenal writing on Eileen's life as Orwell's life. I really enjoyed the interwoven types of narration, letters, and writing that permeates through the book. I got a bit lost at times, but loved how Funder puts herself into the book and tries to live through Eileen.