Btw, you buried the lede of my post. I would psychoanalyze your response, but I’ve never stayed at a Motel 6.
1 Like
Doerr is a successful author. Good for him.
Hahaha, I should have checked back in. I’m a quarter of the way through the book I started before the doctor’s appt. Do not despair on my account! Also, my kindle and my house and probably my audible are all stocked with books I just haven’t felt enthusiastic enough about to commit to. Still, it’s a painful feeling, not having something exciting in the wings, waiting.
Was Eleanor Oliphant not light? Now I can’t remember! Was I chortling warmly over a book about mental illness and hopelessness again? Because I sometimes do that. My barometer is broken, honestly.
I’ve downloaded a sample of Into The Darkest Corner, thanks for the recommendation.
We are as one! Many times over the years, when I have spoken of books, people have said to me: “Know who you sound just like? Joe Pulitzer, back in the day!” 
But @anna_5588 is certainly entitled to her opinion, which I do think is a “cup of tea” thing in this case. It’s character driven, and I think you’d have preferred the emphasis on the practical elements of the war, Anna? While I am happiest inside people’s heads, reading their thoughts and motives.
3 Likes
Yep.
I will say that the writing is beautiful- expressive but not maudlin.
I just dislike books with a lot of emotion.
Starvation and war are emotional things to experience. Being trained to cruelty, as the German boy was, should be an emotional thing.
1 Like
Yes. He did it elegantly
I’d argue that his treatment of these topics, particularly the way he treated the German boy’s situation is a non trivial reason the book is so celebrated
LOL…along with the exceptional writing, well-rounded and engaging characters, and exquisite attention to detail.
Just the total package. In my opinion, of course.
2 Likes
Yeah. I started reading the wiki on it and really liked even just that.
1 Like
I hope I haven’t built it up so much that it can never meet expectations!
No worries about that. When I read a story I end up building my own images of the characters, setting, actions ,details & stuff. Even if I’ve seen the movie already, it may encroach a little, but not to any real affect.
Word of mouth does get me sold on these things though.
1 Like
I totally agree on Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine - it was so good! All the Light We Cannot See has been on my TBR list for quite a while. Based on your endorsement - I’m moving it up!!
1 Like
Currently reading Fault Lines by Emily Itami.
I second the recommendation on All The Light We Cannot See!
1 Like
Just for fun:
4 Likes
This was quite good. I recommend it if you like W.G. Sebald.
Starting Miseducation: How Climate Change is Taught in America. I’m ready to be terrified!
1 Like
Have you read This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein?
Nope, looks interesting though. Thanks for that!
1 Like
Finished American Dirt, which was pretty good, enjoyed her writing style.
Started Americanah last night which, through 1.2 chapters, is pretty entertaining.
1 Like
Devoured this one. It’s a quick but great read.
A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again by DFW is next for me.
1 Like
Oh that’s awesome. How terrifying was it?