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idicalini 's review for:
American Pastoral
by Philip Roth
This may be the worst so-called classic I've ever read. There were only two parts I somewhat liked: the description of historical Newark, and the ending (though that was also disappointing). For the rest... I get that this is supposed to show inner thoughts, what it reminded me of more than anything is an elderly person narrating their lives (which fits the story, I suppose). But my god, would it kill the author to write in understandable sentences? I counted - some sentences literally spanned two pages. Maybe my attention span is too short, but how is anyone supposed to enjoy reading that? And not just once, but all the time? And what's with the weird unannounced narrative shifts? First it's about this author reminiscing about everything to do with the Levovs, and then suddenly it shifts to third person narration. That arc didn't conclude and that doesn't sit well with me.
I guess... If I have to say something positive... I do enjoy some of the themes in the book. Diving into a character who's initially presented as having the perfect life. Discovering the truth behind his American Dream. But the first job of any book is to be written in an enjoyable way. This wasn't, and that ruined it for me.
1.5 our of 5 stars. Read it for the book club (if not I definitely would not have finished it).
I guess... If I have to say something positive... I do enjoy some of the themes in the book. Diving into a character who's initially presented as having the perfect life. Discovering the truth behind his American Dream. But the first job of any book is to be written in an enjoyable way. This wasn't, and that ruined it for me.
1.5 our of 5 stars. Read it for the book club (if not I definitely would not have finished it).