Arundhati RoyGenre: Fiction
Published: 1997
Personal Rating: 2/5
Yearly Count: 19
The plot revolves around a family located in a small town in India. Decades of family events are shared, with the main characters being fraternal twins - the ones who are greatly affected by the small things.
I did not care for Roy's style of storytelling. The format of flashbacks and the lack of relatable characters made this book an unpleasant experience. The continual use of flashbacks caused difficulty in following, but that downfall could be due to listening to the book instead of reading. Although, the wordiness and unnecessary details regarding numerous characters can't be excused because I listened. Alas, much work went into trying to enjoy this book to no avail. Sadness.
I saw you were reading this and I was a little worried. The style is very different, and I didn't think you'd like it. That's too bad you didn't.
ReplyDeleteIt was rather depressing, but I liked the lyrical qualities of the writing when I read it.
I actually liked the writing style, but did NOT like the last two chapters. Ugh.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry that this one didn't turn out well for you, Joy. I'm hoping to read this one in the future.
ReplyDeleteRaidergirl3 ~ There were times when I thought it was going to be okay (that's why I hung on), but it never took hold.
ReplyDelete3M ~ Yea...I know! I really didn't expect that. AND, I hated the constant bathroom references. That is not literary reading I enjoy.
Literary Feline ~ It appears that most people like it, so you should do fine. :) There is good stuff in it, just overall, not enough to make it a good read for me.
you haven't had many really great reads yet this year, have you? :(
ReplyDeletei haven't read this one. i thought about including it on my Booker Prize Challenge list, but in the end chose some others.
Alison ~ Plain and simple . . . I really think I'm more of a mystery/thriller reader. :) There are definitely other genres that appeal to me and that I enjoy, but for the most part I'm a thriller reader. I need excitement, suspense and/or witty men. *big grin*
ReplyDeleteIf it's got bathroom references...nevermind. I was wondering about this book. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteBybee ~ Actually, there were many references and events that I didn't like.
ReplyDeleteI read The God of Small Things recently and completely agree with your review... the writing style just did not do it for me either.
ReplyDeleteHeather ~ Thanks! It's nice to have company. :)
ReplyDeleteI had trouble with the writing style as well. When I started reading it I though I wouldn't finish it. However, I stuck with it and got use to her style. I ended up really liking this book. I gave it 4/5.
ReplyDeleteTeddy Rose ~ I'm glad you liked it. I wish I had. :)
ReplyDelete