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A review by bumblemee
The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis
challenging
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I read this because I loved the show and I do not regret it one bit. I have to say that I do not understand chess at all, so all the time taken to explain game strategy is completly wasted on me because I can't even remember how each piece is allowed to move. Which was a little sad because it must be fascinating and thrilling to read if you DO know what's going on. I just got that there was something going on and the tension came through a little bit, but I think my rating would probably be higher if my understanding of the game was better. Nonetheless I am a sucker for competeteive aspects in books so I still enjoyed it. There's also a lot more in this book than pure chess. Beth is a fascinating character and while I can't say that I liked her, I still felt for her. Seeing her struggle and not really understanding herself a lot of the time made me feel a lot.
I also think that this matter of factly, analytical writing style was perfect for Beth. As well as the details she picks up on and what she chooses to focus on in general. It was really well done. That being said, I sometimes have a hard time with this type of writing because it distances me from what's going on.
Still, a certain scene that was also in the show made me tear up a bit, because in the important moments, the book did get to me emotionally.
This book was adapted perfectly by the way, at least in my opinion. I watched the show first and I expected exactly this type of writing from watching it. I don't think that happened to me before, at least not to this extend. They did an amazing job of telling the story as well, I didn't feel like the show missed anything important. So if you think the book might not be for you - for example bc you don't know anything about chess - but still want to consume the story, watch the show. It might be the better choice for you since it's less hard to get through parts you don't understand.
I also think that this matter of factly, analytical writing style was perfect for Beth. As well as the details she picks up on and what she chooses to focus on in general. It was really well done. That being said, I sometimes have a hard time with this type of writing because it distances me from what's going on.
Still, a certain scene that was also in the show made me tear up a bit, because in the important moments, the book did get to me emotionally.
This book was adapted perfectly by the way, at least in my opinion. I watched the show first and I expected exactly this type of writing from watching it. I don't think that happened to me before, at least not to this extend. They did an amazing job of telling the story as well, I didn't feel like the show missed anything important. So if you think the book might not be for you - for example bc you don't know anything about chess - but still want to consume the story, watch the show. It might be the better choice for you since it's less hard to get through parts you don't understand.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Addiction, Death of parent, Alcoholism, and Drug abuse
Moderate: Racial slurs and Sexual assault