This is a book I've wanted to read for some time now but never managed to get my hands on it but, finally, I have and you could say I'm glad glad I managed to do so.
This is one of those "set in the future" books where the world has changed with weird laws and machines. A somewhat utopian world.
As mentioned, the story is based in a futuristic world in which books are banned and should a book be found a 'fireman' - in this case, a man who goes to the location of the book(s), sprays it/them with kerosene and proceeds to burn the books. We follow the life of Guy Montag, a fireman who, when working catches a glipse of a book and reads "Time has fallen asleep in the afternoon sunshine". Mesmerised by these words he decides to keep the book.
Wht follows is a story of a man whom disagrees with these laws and, due to having kept a pile of books is forced into secrecy. However, the day he decides to read out a poem to a group of his wife's friends he is sent into a downward spiral which turns into survival of the fittest.
Having been discovered in posession of a book Montag is forced to escape the city and get away as far he can and this book follows the journey just before the discovery to the day in which Montag manages to find somewhere to stay.
Written in the '30s this book is partly similar to 1984. However, despite there being mentions of robotic dogs, voice recognition and walls replaced with large TVs the concept of this story is far from similar to todays world other than that the horrible Kindle is sometimes thought to replace books.
If you're interested in utopia and fucked-up politics with a futuristic twist then this may be a book for you, if not, then still read it anyway. Along with being controversial it is also influntial enough to spawn a band of the same name.
I can't say I'd stand on a rofftop and praise this book like a Messiah but I also wouldn't throw it across the room. A mid-rate I'd say.
Rating: 2.8/5
Friday 17 December 2010
Thursday 9 December 2010
Double book review
As the previous two books I read were done in one night nd were both relatively short, it seems logical to just put them in one blog. Let's begin.
The first book I read was Robert Louis Stevenson's "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" - a book I'd wanted to read for a long time and thanks to a 3-story library at uni, I managed to get my hands on it. And what better time when you have to write an essay on the representation of class in literature?
I'm not really sure about how I'd praise and dis-praise (is that a word?) this book but I can say it was enjoyable, although possibly not as enjoyable as it would have been, had I not been noting down the points of show and tell. Moving on...
It's easy to see why this book has become such a classic which pretty much everyone has heard of - the storyline is fresh with a new concept to the time, it managed to fit in with the current 'scene' of Victorian gothic and could be read by both adults and children alike due to it's simple language lack of vulgarness.
Most of us know the story of a certain scientist creating a mixture of long-named drugs which, when consumed, turned him into an ugly and angry man-thing. Simple enough concept and a good read.
Seeing as this is a critical writing I suppose I'll throw in what I disliked about the book. Now, call me boring etc but throughout the book I remained curious about the characters' backgrounds, although this may have caused the book to drag on. Who knows?
I can't really say this is a book I'll be taking out next month, nor can I be sure that I'll never read it again.
Rting: 3/5
**************
Moving on to book 2 of the night, we have "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck. Although shortter than Jekyll and Hyde, this book was (in my opinion) better and although this was also for some research, it was also an excellent read and possibly as good as "To Kill a Mockingbird", previously reviewed.
I'm not aware of knowing anyone who has read this book and for that, I'm slightly surprised. Our protagonists here are George and Lennie, two men who constantly travel around wroking odd-jobs here and there.
We have George, a somewhat angry man who, from time to time, manages to show a soft side and we then have Lennie, a large man who seems to suffer from mild autism with his repeating of what George has to say and his obsession with soft fabric which often lands him in trouble.
As the book moves on, the reader may begin to feel more and more sorry for the misunderstood Lennie. Frequently called "dumb" and "crazy" he has no idea of what this all means and is forced to go along with George's orders. This therefore creates a depression for the reader also.
However, despite the characters being on and off towards Lennie, one can't help but keep reading. Steinbeck's writing is a constant movement which, although somwhat short and lacking some description at times, still makes a good read.
What can I say to conclude this review? Well, I can't say I'd recommend this book to someone who happens to be extremely emotionally unstable, however, anyone else, have a read. Alike Jekyll nd Hyde, this book could potentially be read by young adults rather than just adults. If you can get your hands on this book, do so.
Rating: 3.8/5
The first book I read was Robert Louis Stevenson's "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" - a book I'd wanted to read for a long time and thanks to a 3-story library at uni, I managed to get my hands on it. And what better time when you have to write an essay on the representation of class in literature?
I'm not really sure about how I'd praise and dis-praise (is that a word?) this book but I can say it was enjoyable, although possibly not as enjoyable as it would have been, had I not been noting down the points of show and tell. Moving on...
It's easy to see why this book has become such a classic which pretty much everyone has heard of - the storyline is fresh with a new concept to the time, it managed to fit in with the current 'scene' of Victorian gothic and could be read by both adults and children alike due to it's simple language lack of vulgarness.
Most of us know the story of a certain scientist creating a mixture of long-named drugs which, when consumed, turned him into an ugly and angry man-thing. Simple enough concept and a good read.
Seeing as this is a critical writing I suppose I'll throw in what I disliked about the book. Now, call me boring etc but throughout the book I remained curious about the characters' backgrounds, although this may have caused the book to drag on. Who knows?
I can't really say this is a book I'll be taking out next month, nor can I be sure that I'll never read it again.
Rting: 3/5
**************
Moving on to book 2 of the night, we have "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck. Although shortter than Jekyll and Hyde, this book was (in my opinion) better and although this was also for some research, it was also an excellent read and possibly as good as "To Kill a Mockingbird", previously reviewed.
I'm not aware of knowing anyone who has read this book and for that, I'm slightly surprised. Our protagonists here are George and Lennie, two men who constantly travel around wroking odd-jobs here and there.
We have George, a somewhat angry man who, from time to time, manages to show a soft side and we then have Lennie, a large man who seems to suffer from mild autism with his repeating of what George has to say and his obsession with soft fabric which often lands him in trouble.
As the book moves on, the reader may begin to feel more and more sorry for the misunderstood Lennie. Frequently called "dumb" and "crazy" he has no idea of what this all means and is forced to go along with George's orders. This therefore creates a depression for the reader also.
However, despite the characters being on and off towards Lennie, one can't help but keep reading. Steinbeck's writing is a constant movement which, although somwhat short and lacking some description at times, still makes a good read.
What can I say to conclude this review? Well, I can't say I'd recommend this book to someone who happens to be extremely emotionally unstable, however, anyone else, have a read. Alike Jekyll nd Hyde, this book could potentially be read by young adults rather than just adults. If you can get your hands on this book, do so.
Rating: 3.8/5
Monday 22 November 2010
Therese Raquin by Emile Zola
Zola is/was a I seem to recall briefly hearing of in the past but I'd not checked out any of his books. Until now. As a book put on a set reading list for uni I was expecting an amazing read. However, when I read the blurb which happened to mention "Adultery, murder and madness" I knew this would be my type of novel.
SPOILERS FOLLOW
We're introduced to a bored married woman who initially hates her husband's best friend until, one fateful day, he kisses her and a whirlwind romantic affair soon begins. As with all of these type of affairs we have the man sneaking up to his wife's bedroom for passionate love-making (something which today may be known as "hard, rough sex" - something which I seem to be able to hear from my roommate's room right now). As time goes on, the man and his lover conspire to murder her husband so the lovers can finally get married.
However, as one may or may not expect, things go wrong and they move their seperate ways until a year and a half later when the marriage is finally on the cards again. Cue a disappointing wedding and a chain of events to create an unhappy and abusive couple and you have Therese Raquin in a nutshell.
For a piece of 19th century literature this was a novel written in simple English with no 'classic' words often used in those days. For a book with such violence and anger it has a surprising lack of swearing, although this may just be due to class and time etc.
After reading the blurb I expected something good and something good is what I got.
I doubt I'll be picking this book up again any time soon but it will be one to remain sat on my bookshelf waiting in anticipation to be read again.
If you're a fan of literature with a dark side to it and easy-to-read language, Therese Raquin is certainly a book worth picking up sometime.
Rating: 3.7/5
SPOILERS FOLLOW
We're introduced to a bored married woman who initially hates her husband's best friend until, one fateful day, he kisses her and a whirlwind romantic affair soon begins. As with all of these type of affairs we have the man sneaking up to his wife's bedroom for passionate love-making (something which today may be known as "hard, rough sex" - something which I seem to be able to hear from my roommate's room right now). As time goes on, the man and his lover conspire to murder her husband so the lovers can finally get married.
However, as one may or may not expect, things go wrong and they move their seperate ways until a year and a half later when the marriage is finally on the cards again. Cue a disappointing wedding and a chain of events to create an unhappy and abusive couple and you have Therese Raquin in a nutshell.
For a piece of 19th century literature this was a novel written in simple English with no 'classic' words often used in those days. For a book with such violence and anger it has a surprising lack of swearing, although this may just be due to class and time etc.
After reading the blurb I expected something good and something good is what I got.
I doubt I'll be picking this book up again any time soon but it will be one to remain sat on my bookshelf waiting in anticipation to be read again.
If you're a fan of literature with a dark side to it and easy-to-read language, Therese Raquin is certainly a book worth picking up sometime.
Rating: 3.7/5
Monday 4 October 2010
Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk
Yes, I know it's been a long time since writing here. All this uni business has prevented me from sitting down and properly reading a book. However, my arrival at the uni has allowed me to read the one book I've wanted to read for over a year: Fight Club.
Many of us have seen the film and the book has many similarities. However, there are also many differences - all of which I can't list here due to risking spoiling the book but lets just say that the book will help one know how and where the narrator went during those gaps in the film.
Sadly, due to the risk of spoiling the book, I can't write a long review but what I can say is that the book is certainly ecellent and met my very expectations. Just like the film it is aa mind-fuck and makes you wonder what all that was about. In the end, though, the story comes together to crete a well-written, well-narrated story of man suffering from insomnia to create an alter-ego.
Due to this being a library book it's not one I can read again anytime soon although at a later date I will be picking it up.
Overall rating: 4/5
Many of us have seen the film and the book has many similarities. However, there are also many differences - all of which I can't list here due to risking spoiling the book but lets just say that the book will help one know how and where the narrator went during those gaps in the film.
Sadly, due to the risk of spoiling the book, I can't write a long review but what I can say is that the book is certainly ecellent and met my very expectations. Just like the film it is aa mind-fuck and makes you wonder what all that was about. In the end, though, the story comes together to crete a well-written, well-narrated story of man suffering from insomnia to create an alter-ego.
Due to this being a library book it's not one I can read again anytime soon although at a later date I will be picking it up.
Overall rating: 4/5
Tuesday 14 September 2010
Dracula by Bram Stoker
We all know who Dracula is so I won't bore you with the details of a man who lives in a castle and bites the necks of humans to add anothe vampire to his army etc etc.
As a review I'll have to say I was a little disappointed with this book. Sure, it was good with some lively and exciting scenes but it wasn't as I'd expected it to be. I kept expecting there to be lively and violent scenes so this was the main disappointment. This isn't to say I dislike the book.
There were a lot of points in which the book drawled on and I just felt like skipping them and getting to the livey points. However, I didn't do so and managed to read every page, including Mina's lengthy letters and diary entries about how the light reflected beautifully off the water.
I think I'll give it a year and re-read the book. Maybe I'll find it better with more reads. If you can handle Van Helsing's trouble with English and general classic literature I would recommend that you pick this book up, however, don't read it if you wish to read an all-swords, all-guns blazing battle between the living and the dead.
Overall rating: 2.5/5 (Sorry Bram)
As a review I'll have to say I was a little disappointed with this book. Sure, it was good with some lively and exciting scenes but it wasn't as I'd expected it to be. I kept expecting there to be lively and violent scenes so this was the main disappointment. This isn't to say I dislike the book.
There were a lot of points in which the book drawled on and I just felt like skipping them and getting to the livey points. However, I didn't do so and managed to read every page, including Mina's lengthy letters and diary entries about how the light reflected beautifully off the water.
I think I'll give it a year and re-read the book. Maybe I'll find it better with more reads. If you can handle Van Helsing's trouble with English and general classic literature I would recommend that you pick this book up, however, don't read it if you wish to read an all-swords, all-guns blazing battle between the living and the dead.
Overall rating: 2.5/5 (Sorry Bram)
Saturday 28 August 2010
Sex and the British by Paul Ferris
The title pretty much gives away what the book is about but it is still in need of a review. Ferris' book gives the reader a history of sex from the late 1890s to 1993, it's published year. It gives info on how sex was frowned upon by almost anyone except soldiers fighting overseas in WWI. How the feminists would bash any man who mentioned that he'd recently had sex, the fact that self-pleasure would result in a prison sentence and that anyone found owning pornographic "propaganda" would be arrested and the propaganda being burnt.
Surprisingly, even the London Rubber Company were embarrassed to produce condoms which were highly frowned upon until the late '80s.
Many of the rules of sex 60 years ago will make anyone aged 20 wonder what the hell they were thinking back then when even a badly-drawn cartoon of a half-naked woman would be pulled off the shelves instantly.
For a book that could be classed as British history (a subject I don't take a huge interest in) it is one which anyone would find interesting (even those 22 year olds who can't or refuse to read). When I started reading the book I didn't know what to expect - possibly the fact that it might turn out to just be another of those generic textbook-types. However, over the years Ferris has undertaken a lot of research and interviews to produce a book that will entertain, shock and humour.
Like they say, sex sells and this book shows proff that this statement is very much true.
Overall rating: 3.75/5
Surprisingly, even the London Rubber Company were embarrassed to produce condoms which were highly frowned upon until the late '80s.
Many of the rules of sex 60 years ago will make anyone aged 20 wonder what the hell they were thinking back then when even a badly-drawn cartoon of a half-naked woman would be pulled off the shelves instantly.
For a book that could be classed as British history (a subject I don't take a huge interest in) it is one which anyone would find interesting (even those 22 year olds who can't or refuse to read). When I started reading the book I didn't know what to expect - possibly the fact that it might turn out to just be another of those generic textbook-types. However, over the years Ferris has undertaken a lot of research and interviews to produce a book that will entertain, shock and humour.
Like they say, sex sells and this book shows proff that this statement is very much true.
Overall rating: 3.75/5
Wednesday 18 August 2010
The Iliad by Homer
One of the classics on Greek mythology The Iliad focuses on the Trojan war between the Acheans and Trojans. And quite a war it is with spears going through stomachs and arrows going into necks.
The basis of the story is that in the sky on Mount Olympus there are many gods who control the earth and it is these who control who will win the war. It's hard to describe the story as there is so much going on that it could be put into 3 books if reworded. Put simply, however, it is a document of the mythological war.
Although not for the light-headed The Iliad is an interesting book with many bloody scenes. Perfect for those fans of "Gladiator" or "Braveheart". This one took me longer to read than a book of a larger size purely due to it's writing and riddles. However, Homer's writing is well done and thought out with extensive plots and full descriptions of characters, although some of the details seem a bit irrellevant to the story itself.
This book is not one which you would casually pick up and expect to read in a day. It is one for those who appreciate literature rather than laugh in it's face.
Neddless to say I did enjoy the book but it probably won't be something I'd read again unless it was set for academia.
Rating: 2.5/5
The basis of the story is that in the sky on Mount Olympus there are many gods who control the earth and it is these who control who will win the war. It's hard to describe the story as there is so much going on that it could be put into 3 books if reworded. Put simply, however, it is a document of the mythological war.
Although not for the light-headed The Iliad is an interesting book with many bloody scenes. Perfect for those fans of "Gladiator" or "Braveheart". This one took me longer to read than a book of a larger size purely due to it's writing and riddles. However, Homer's writing is well done and thought out with extensive plots and full descriptions of characters, although some of the details seem a bit irrellevant to the story itself.
This book is not one which you would casually pick up and expect to read in a day. It is one for those who appreciate literature rather than laugh in it's face.
Neddless to say I did enjoy the book but it probably won't be something I'd read again unless it was set for academia.
Rating: 2.5/5
Monday 9 August 2010
A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway
Having never read a war novel before I didn't know what to expect of this one. I was pleasantly surprised however to find it was a just below average read but not something I'd want to read again.
The story tells of an American-Italian war veteran who falls in love with a British nurse and, after suffering serious injuries, decides it's time to leave the army and settle elsewhere. However, as with all such stories, it doesn't come without complications to the protagonist.
Normally, I quite like the characters in any book I've read. This one, however, is different. The British woman is beyond annoying and someone I would happily tell to shut up with her whining and repetitive questions. Our American-Italian is another person who needs to learn when to shut up. That's not to say they're badly-written characters, just very, very annoying and possibly a purposeful move or Hemingway may have had a similar experience in his time up the front.
Hemingway's life experience and research are other things adding to the non-fictional roots of this story. It is also what makes the book well-written and easy to read. Rather than deep philosiphical explanations and sentences the writer sticks to the point. If one is interested in reading a war novel this may be one the best starters.
As mentioned before this book is well-written but not to everyone's tastes, including my own. In my opinion I'd have to give this book a 2.5/5.
The story tells of an American-Italian war veteran who falls in love with a British nurse and, after suffering serious injuries, decides it's time to leave the army and settle elsewhere. However, as with all such stories, it doesn't come without complications to the protagonist.
Normally, I quite like the characters in any book I've read. This one, however, is different. The British woman is beyond annoying and someone I would happily tell to shut up with her whining and repetitive questions. Our American-Italian is another person who needs to learn when to shut up. That's not to say they're badly-written characters, just very, very annoying and possibly a purposeful move or Hemingway may have had a similar experience in his time up the front.
Hemingway's life experience and research are other things adding to the non-fictional roots of this story. It is also what makes the book well-written and easy to read. Rather than deep philosiphical explanations and sentences the writer sticks to the point. If one is interested in reading a war novel this may be one the best starters.
As mentioned before this book is well-written but not to everyone's tastes, including my own. In my opinion I'd have to give this book a 2.5/5.
Friday 6 August 2010
1984 by George Orwell
Well, what a book this was. A mix between confusing, enjoyable and downright weird, Orwell's 'prediction' of our country in 1984 was strangely accurate. The story tells of a country which is controlled by 'Big Brother' - a governmental person/scheme which determines how everything should be and how books and newspaper articles are written. A person dies, they are removed from history, an event happens, it is put into history.
The story shares some strong similarities to other films and books I've seen/read but the most notable one is Fight Club - one of my all-time favourite films. From the way Jack (The Narrator) creates a whole new person to his brainwashing schemes it appears that 1984 could be one of Palahnuick's books. Even the protagonist seems to become as screwed up as Jack.
Another possible prediction was that of the Lottery which is mentioned at one point in the middle of the book.
Well-written but a twisted storyline and strange ending '1984' is a book which anyone interested in politics, The Illuminati concept or general fucked-up writing should read. Throughout the book the reader is constantly changing his guess of the climax. Even if you hate books you might just enjoy reading this. However, you must remember that in this type of literature "breast" very rarely means "tits".
Another one of those "read again" books, 1984 gets a rare 5/5
The story shares some strong similarities to other films and books I've seen/read but the most notable one is Fight Club - one of my all-time favourite films. From the way Jack (The Narrator) creates a whole new person to his brainwashing schemes it appears that 1984 could be one of Palahnuick's books. Even the protagonist seems to become as screwed up as Jack.
Another possible prediction was that of the Lottery which is mentioned at one point in the middle of the book.
Well-written but a twisted storyline and strange ending '1984' is a book which anyone interested in politics, The Illuminati concept or general fucked-up writing should read. Throughout the book the reader is constantly changing his guess of the climax. Even if you hate books you might just enjoy reading this. However, you must remember that in this type of literature "breast" very rarely means "tits".
Another one of those "read again" books, 1984 gets a rare 5/5
Sunday 25 July 2010
The Murder Exchange by Simon Kernick
Yes, it's another Kernick book. This time it's his second book written in 2003 and published by Corgi. The story tells of a man who runs a business of protecting people when they're on their way to collect some illicit goods or maybe a celeb on their way to an event. While this business is purely crime free there is of course the possibility that something could go very wrong. And it does.
Now Max Iversson has to avoid the law along with taking a big risk of kidnapping one of London's most notorious criminals.
What follows is a journey through the underworld chasing murderers, police beaters and kidnappers. And quite a journey it is.
Unlike Kernick's other novels this is written from only two points of view in 1st person format only. Another difference is the chapter naming. Whilst all his other books are numbered chapters, this one goes by number of days before the main event and afterwards. A possibility for this is that the story lasts more than just a couple of days unlike the other novels. However, there is no problem in this concept and it works well.
I only recognise Tina Boyd in this story, the other characters don't ring a bell although crooked cop Dennis Milne was mentioned in small parts However, this doesn't matter as such as we are introduced to the characters again in each different book.
Normally I would have read this in a couple of days but damn internet thing has kept me away from books so it took 5 days instead.
As usual Kernick has written with his foot (along with a pen) pressed down hard to create a gripping thriller giving us an insight into what really goes down in the picturesque city of London.
Overall rating: 4/5
Now Max Iversson has to avoid the law along with taking a big risk of kidnapping one of London's most notorious criminals.
What follows is a journey through the underworld chasing murderers, police beaters and kidnappers. And quite a journey it is.
Unlike Kernick's other novels this is written from only two points of view in 1st person format only. Another difference is the chapter naming. Whilst all his other books are numbered chapters, this one goes by number of days before the main event and afterwards. A possibility for this is that the story lasts more than just a couple of days unlike the other novels. However, there is no problem in this concept and it works well.
I only recognise Tina Boyd in this story, the other characters don't ring a bell although crooked cop Dennis Milne was mentioned in small parts However, this doesn't matter as such as we are introduced to the characters again in each different book.
Normally I would have read this in a couple of days but damn internet thing has kept me away from books so it took 5 days instead.
As usual Kernick has written with his foot (along with a pen) pressed down hard to create a gripping thriller giving us an insight into what really goes down in the picturesque city of London.
Overall rating: 4/5
Friday 16 July 2010
Murder.com by Christopher Berry-Dee and Steven Morris
'Shows how death can be only a click away' says The Sunday Times. And the Times speaks the truth. Murder.com gives a list of incidents in which people have used the internet to find people to satisfy their depraved sexual needs, mostly being S&M or the wish to torture/be tortured amongst the classic Russian Bride scams and another involving the palistinean and Isralean feud.
These are the true stories of the nightmares you have on being stalked through the internet.
I'm sure many readers will remember the story of the man who trawled the internet to find someone he could kill and eat or maybe the story of the 11 year old who killed her 12 year old friend in Japan after she (the friend) called the 11 year old something related to a fat joke.
Some of the stories described in this book I thought were only possible in films. However, being an internet user of 11+ years I know my way around and how to be safe although admittedly I have come across some rather worrying sites (tubgirl anyone?).
The accounts are well-documented and worth a read if you want to know what lurks behind sites like Facebook and Google. It is a book that will make you think twice before clicking on a website headed "Fall in love with your Russian wife here!!" so remember: This is the dark side of the web. Be careful where you click.
A good and informative read but nothing to rave about.
Overall rating: 3/5
These are the true stories of the nightmares you have on being stalked through the internet.
I'm sure many readers will remember the story of the man who trawled the internet to find someone he could kill and eat or maybe the story of the 11 year old who killed her 12 year old friend in Japan after she (the friend) called the 11 year old something related to a fat joke.
Some of the stories described in this book I thought were only possible in films. However, being an internet user of 11+ years I know my way around and how to be safe although admittedly I have come across some rather worrying sites (tubgirl anyone?).
The accounts are well-documented and worth a read if you want to know what lurks behind sites like Facebook and Google. It is a book that will make you think twice before clicking on a website headed "Fall in love with your Russian wife here!!" so remember: This is the dark side of the web. Be careful where you click.
A good and informative read but nothing to rave about.
Overall rating: 3/5
Monday 12 July 2010
Slash by Paul Stenning
More than just a story of a man picking up a guitar, forming a band and becoming famous, 'Slash: Surviving Guns n' Roses, Velvet Revolver and Rock's Snakepit' is an insight into the life of the worlds most recognisable guitarst with his fluffy hair, permanent cigarette and black top hat. The book explores everything musical about the man from his first 1-stringed guitar to becoming a rock God.
The reader is told how and why the man learnt guitar, his journey of seeking fellow musicians, gaining fame and a life of excess. At the time of writing just 3 years ago this books was the only biography about Slash and one that seems to include everything about his life with the aforementioned rockstar lifestyle to owning over a hundred snakes and 18 cats. On the outside he may be a man of fame but on the inside he is a family man with a wife and 2 kids.
Beyond the music and family we are given an insight into his love for animals, the troubles he's had in life, the people he's known and his love for pinball.
Although the book is primarily about Slash it does have snippets of info about future band members of Velvet Revolver and Snakepit along with interviews with the band members regarding their music and lifestyle at the peak of G n' R.
Although I was rather informed of this man as it was, this book has given me more information into the life of the world's most recognisable six-stringer. However, there is a number of editing problems or mistakes which tend to cause slight confusion before reading them again. However, aside from that the book is certainly one to read if you are a fan of Saul Hudson.
Overall rating: 3.5/5
The reader is told how and why the man learnt guitar, his journey of seeking fellow musicians, gaining fame and a life of excess. At the time of writing just 3 years ago this books was the only biography about Slash and one that seems to include everything about his life with the aforementioned rockstar lifestyle to owning over a hundred snakes and 18 cats. On the outside he may be a man of fame but on the inside he is a family man with a wife and 2 kids.
Beyond the music and family we are given an insight into his love for animals, the troubles he's had in life, the people he's known and his love for pinball.
Although the book is primarily about Slash it does have snippets of info about future band members of Velvet Revolver and Snakepit along with interviews with the band members regarding their music and lifestyle at the peak of G n' R.
Although I was rather informed of this man as it was, this book has given me more information into the life of the world's most recognisable six-stringer. However, there is a number of editing problems or mistakes which tend to cause slight confusion before reading them again. However, aside from that the book is certainly one to read if you are a fan of Saul Hudson.
Overall rating: 3.5/5
Sunday 11 July 2010
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
"An unforgettable story of the violent, intolerant, eccentric, humorous and prejudiced Deep South seen through the eyes of children. Scout and Jem Finch lose their innocence when their lawyer father defends a negro charged with the rape of a white girl" reads the blurb. However, To Kill a Mockingbird doesn't focus on just this snippet of a story, it focuses on mainy things.
Along with the focus of South American prejudice against black people TKAM also focuses on how people can change through time and events, how they may not be who they seem and what can happen when one does something which a whole town will disagree on. Told through the eyes of a child who is yet to experience a lot in life this book is much more than just your bog-standard novel.
Some may assume from the blurb that the story is rather sinister but they will be proven wrong. Written also from life experience Lee tells it how it is was and still is.
I've had this book sat on my shelf for nine months gathering dust but after reading some rave reviews and others not so rave I decided to see for myself and right before I found out it was 50 years old this month so what better time to be reading it? I didn't know what to expect but I was hoping for a rave, and that I was given.
Unlike many other books I've read Lee has written with consistence and emotion that makes the reader also feel emotion and feel "inside" of the narrator. This is definately one of, if not the, best books I've read and one that I'm likely to pick up again more than once. Of course, the language is a bit tricky at times and some pages can drawl but if you can handle that this book is a recommendation for anyone (minus those who rely on the Sun/Daily Mail for true news).
Overall rating: 5/5
PS - sorry this isn't an amazing review, I'm hungry, tired and can't really think of how to word a review of a book like this.
PPS - If you want to learn to how to kill a mockingbird, this book isn't for you.
Along with the focus of South American prejudice against black people TKAM also focuses on how people can change through time and events, how they may not be who they seem and what can happen when one does something which a whole town will disagree on. Told through the eyes of a child who is yet to experience a lot in life this book is much more than just your bog-standard novel.
Some may assume from the blurb that the story is rather sinister but they will be proven wrong. Written also from life experience Lee tells it how it is was and still is.
I've had this book sat on my shelf for nine months gathering dust but after reading some rave reviews and others not so rave I decided to see for myself and right before I found out it was 50 years old this month so what better time to be reading it? I didn't know what to expect but I was hoping for a rave, and that I was given.
Unlike many other books I've read Lee has written with consistence and emotion that makes the reader also feel emotion and feel "inside" of the narrator. This is definately one of, if not the, best books I've read and one that I'm likely to pick up again more than once. Of course, the language is a bit tricky at times and some pages can drawl but if you can handle that this book is a recommendation for anyone (minus those who rely on the Sun/Daily Mail for true news).
Overall rating: 5/5
PS - sorry this isn't an amazing review, I'm hungry, tired and can't really think of how to word a review of a book like this.
PPS - If you want to learn to how to kill a mockingbird, this book isn't for you.
Thursday 8 July 2010
Heart Shaped Box by Joe Hill
A book for those who might be interested in weird stories, goth-rock music or both, Heart Shaped Box is perfect.
The book tells of a Kerry King look-alike who buys a ghost off the internet in the form of an old man's suit. However, this purchase does not come without it's consequences. Upon opening and unfolding the suit, problems begin with a pin prick to the finger. After this one accident Judas Coyne's life goes into a downward spiral with problem after problem occurring with a massive climax.
We have stories of ghosts appearing in dreams, infections forming in said pin-pricked hand, memories and visions of past partners and crazy former in-laws. The story is a constant run of events which keeps the reader peeled and wanting to find out what happens next. Hill's writing is modern and original with concepts I've not read before (and I've read a LOT of horror books) which is something which should be applied to more books of this era/generation. Some might say he writes with his foot on the pedal of a suped up Mustang.
Hill has also done his research into modern and older metal bands with many being referenced throughout the book with the 4 parts taking the names of well-known songs along with the title being that of Nirvana's fame. Bands mentioned include Nine Inch Nails, MCR (yuck!), Good Charlotte and Rage Against the Machine. Joe Hill clearly has taste.
I found there to be no parts in this book that I wanted to skip or think "Meh" to, it was all full-on good reading.
Heart Shaped Box is a well-written and exciting book with many twists and turns and a somewhat trippy climax to a story of ghosts, crazy women, dogs' souls, strange radio broadcasts and weird dreams which would only normally occur when under the influence of LSD. If you're a fan of books that could be equivalent to Dark Side of the Moon this is one for you. If not, I'd still recommend it to anyone - it may even get people reading.
Overall rating: 5/5
The book tells of a Kerry King look-alike who buys a ghost off the internet in the form of an old man's suit. However, this purchase does not come without it's consequences. Upon opening and unfolding the suit, problems begin with a pin prick to the finger. After this one accident Judas Coyne's life goes into a downward spiral with problem after problem occurring with a massive climax.
We have stories of ghosts appearing in dreams, infections forming in said pin-pricked hand, memories and visions of past partners and crazy former in-laws. The story is a constant run of events which keeps the reader peeled and wanting to find out what happens next. Hill's writing is modern and original with concepts I've not read before (and I've read a LOT of horror books) which is something which should be applied to more books of this era/generation. Some might say he writes with his foot on the pedal of a suped up Mustang.
Hill has also done his research into modern and older metal bands with many being referenced throughout the book with the 4 parts taking the names of well-known songs along with the title being that of Nirvana's fame. Bands mentioned include Nine Inch Nails, MCR (yuck!), Good Charlotte and Rage Against the Machine. Joe Hill clearly has taste.
I found there to be no parts in this book that I wanted to skip or think "Meh" to, it was all full-on good reading.
Heart Shaped Box is a well-written and exciting book with many twists and turns and a somewhat trippy climax to a story of ghosts, crazy women, dogs' souls, strange radio broadcasts and weird dreams which would only normally occur when under the influence of LSD. If you're a fan of books that could be equivalent to Dark Side of the Moon this is one for you. If not, I'd still recommend it to anyone - it may even get people reading.
Overall rating: 5/5
Saturday 3 July 2010
Unlocking the Masonic Code by Ian Gittins
As the title may suggest this book gives an insight into the world of the Freemasons. And what a crazy bunch they are. Gittins' book describes the history of the Masons, the origins of the name and the many activities of which they peform or undertake in their meetings.
Since I first heard of the Masons a few years ago I had a feeling that they were pretty crazy and this book confirms this belief. As it gets deeper the book moves from historical times of Masonry up to today's time and although things have changed, they seem to be just as crazy as they were 3000 years ago.
However, having read this book it seems I may never meet a Mason due to their secrecy and the rule that they cannot tell people that they are, indeed, a member of a Masonic group.
The book often refers to writer Dan Brown and how his books tend to be illogical and missing significant points and facts (although it doesn't mention that his books are pretty crap). The book also mentions the Solomon Key which happens to be a title of one of Brown's books.
The book deciphers myth from reality and what really goes on inside the Masonic meetings and how embarrassing it must be for people who wish to become a Mason themself. However, it was an interesting read and although it didn't change all of them, some of my thoughts were corrected.
The book is informative and one for anyone who is interested in the Masonic culture. Not one I'd read again though. It's a bit of a hefty read despite it's shortness and requires an open mind and ability to really get in and the conscience to continuously turn back a page every few parts.
Overall rating: 2.5/5
NB: Please ignore any strange typos, I'm slightly drunk right now (although not drunk enough to become delusional about a book).
Since I first heard of the Masons a few years ago I had a feeling that they were pretty crazy and this book confirms this belief. As it gets deeper the book moves from historical times of Masonry up to today's time and although things have changed, they seem to be just as crazy as they were 3000 years ago.
However, having read this book it seems I may never meet a Mason due to their secrecy and the rule that they cannot tell people that they are, indeed, a member of a Masonic group.
The book often refers to writer Dan Brown and how his books tend to be illogical and missing significant points and facts (although it doesn't mention that his books are pretty crap). The book also mentions the Solomon Key which happens to be a title of one of Brown's books.
The book deciphers myth from reality and what really goes on inside the Masonic meetings and how embarrassing it must be for people who wish to become a Mason themself. However, it was an interesting read and although it didn't change all of them, some of my thoughts were corrected.
The book is informative and one for anyone who is interested in the Masonic culture. Not one I'd read again though. It's a bit of a hefty read despite it's shortness and requires an open mind and ability to really get in and the conscience to continuously turn back a page every few parts.
Overall rating: 2.5/5
NB: Please ignore any strange typos, I'm slightly drunk right now (although not drunk enough to become delusional about a book).
Tuesday 29 June 2010
The Skull by Shaun Hutson
The Skull by medically-diagnosed mildly-psychotic writer Shaun Hutson is a book with content that I have never come across in the past. Although I've read Stephen King's work The Skull is no match for the gruesome and gory aspects/concepts of the story. A skull that breeds from a drop of human or animal blood? A 7 foot monster with a skull full of large incisors and a lust for blood? It's quite obvious here that Mr. Hutson is indeed a psycho.
The book tells of an architect who finds a strange skull, too big to be human yet nothing animal like. Whilst being carried around a lab it seems to come alive and bite a professor. This small event creates a story of rampage, gore, death, sex and bad weather all because Mr. Architect decided to get this skull inspected on. However, this mistake does indeed make for a good story and one which is gripping fast and interesting enough to make you want to find out what happens next.
The Skull is well written with the aforementioned gripping storyline and a constant curiosity of what will happen next or thoughts of "You bloody idiot, have you not seen the films?". The prose is written in a style of going from one the location and events of one person straight to another at that time-space so we know what's happing both ways rather than left wondering and curious.
Those who have read anything by Hutson in the past are probably aware of his writing and it would that his Psychosis adds to the intensity of the story. The Skull is written in a way that makes you think the writer could possibly be some serial killer or person who shows signs of becoming such.
If you can get your hands on this book (it's now out of print so charity shops are the best bet) do so and have a good read. However it's not a book that can be put down for more than 3 days and not matter that you've forgotten half of what you've already read.
Total rating: 4.5/5
The book tells of an architect who finds a strange skull, too big to be human yet nothing animal like. Whilst being carried around a lab it seems to come alive and bite a professor. This small event creates a story of rampage, gore, death, sex and bad weather all because Mr. Architect decided to get this skull inspected on. However, this mistake does indeed make for a good story and one which is gripping fast and interesting enough to make you want to find out what happens next.
The Skull is well written with the aforementioned gripping storyline and a constant curiosity of what will happen next or thoughts of "You bloody idiot, have you not seen the films?". The prose is written in a style of going from one the location and events of one person straight to another at that time-space so we know what's happing both ways rather than left wondering and curious.
Those who have read anything by Hutson in the past are probably aware of his writing and it would that his Psychosis adds to the intensity of the story. The Skull is written in a way that makes you think the writer could possibly be some serial killer or person who shows signs of becoming such.
If you can get your hands on this book (it's now out of print so charity shops are the best bet) do so and have a good read. However it's not a book that can be put down for more than 3 days and not matter that you've forgotten half of what you've already read.
Total rating: 4.5/5
Sunday 27 June 2010
Overexposure by Hugo Rifkind
"Overexposure" by Times journalist Hugo Rifkind is a satirical story of a journalist who does very little other than get drunk, argue with his boss, party, write columns and try and get as much sex as possible. However, Overexposure is a book which some might consider a "holiday" or "park" read - the type of book you grab from an airport bookshop or something you take to Hyde Park on a sunny day. The latter I am guilty of doing, although it sadly wasn't Hyde Park.
The book tells the story of Macaulay Lewis, a journalist who hates his job until suddenly, celebrities' items go missing replaced wil a note from "Fingers", a thief. Over time the story grows, Mac begins to like his job until, suddenly, it all goes wrong for him - his "girlfriend" has disappeared, he gets put into a lower position in work and, worst of all, everyone thinks Mac knows the burglar. As Mac's life gets worse, the burglar seems to disappear until near the end when we find out who it really is.
Moving on, Rifkind has taken the front seat of someone who hates his job and clearly diplays this (none of my research has implied he hates his job). The book can sometimes be a bit slow but at others it is a past-paced journey in which we MUST know what happens next. Many people who have been in journalism or completely smashed will be able to "connect" with the narrator.
Overexposure is quite a light book and not too intellectual, however judging from some of the language I'm pretty sure it was aimed at adults (Read: Cunty) although young adults may still find some parts humourous but less so than adults.
I wouldn't say the book is amazingly written or edited as there are some very simple spelling mistakes of the type you see on Facebook but excluding that note it was indeed a good read but not something I'll pick up time and time again. Like I said: holiday reading.
The book was a good read and yet another good deal from Poundland of which I'm glad I picked up.
Total rating: 3.5/5
The book tells the story of Macaulay Lewis, a journalist who hates his job until suddenly, celebrities' items go missing replaced wil a note from "Fingers", a thief. Over time the story grows, Mac begins to like his job until, suddenly, it all goes wrong for him - his "girlfriend" has disappeared, he gets put into a lower position in work and, worst of all, everyone thinks Mac knows the burglar. As Mac's life gets worse, the burglar seems to disappear until near the end when we find out who it really is.
Moving on, Rifkind has taken the front seat of someone who hates his job and clearly diplays this (none of my research has implied he hates his job). The book can sometimes be a bit slow but at others it is a past-paced journey in which we MUST know what happens next. Many people who have been in journalism or completely smashed will be able to "connect" with the narrator.
Overexposure is quite a light book and not too intellectual, however judging from some of the language I'm pretty sure it was aimed at adults (Read: Cunty) although young adults may still find some parts humourous but less so than adults.
I wouldn't say the book is amazingly written or edited as there are some very simple spelling mistakes of the type you see on Facebook but excluding that note it was indeed a good read but not something I'll pick up time and time again. Like I said: holiday reading.
The book was a good read and yet another good deal from Poundland of which I'm glad I picked up.
Total rating: 3.5/5
Tuesday 22 June 2010
Deadline by Simon Kernick
With Simon Kernick being one of my favourite crime/thriller writers it was going to be obvious that I'd like this book as he makes much of it seem like a true crime tale with his knowledge and connections with the Anti-Terrorist Branch and Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA). Using this knowledge and connection he can incorporate many authentic operation tactics into his writing.
Deadline tells the story of an abduction of a child with a ransom of half a million pounds cash. Bringing in his main characters (whom appear in all of his books) Tina Boyd, Mike Bolt, Mo Kahn and "Big" Barry Freud Kernick creates a story that is gripping and page-turning with many twists and turns which we wouldn't have guessed would happen.
As the story goes on Mike Bolt takes control of the op. However, as with most of Kernick's novels, Bolt's actions go very wrong or the criminal gets the better of SOCA and Deadline is no exception.
Reading on Kernick drags us deeper into the criminal underground of London and how a place that many people adore can become a place in which serious crime and dangerous gangs are just around the corner. This novel really makes you realise how dangerous 'da streets, innit' can be and may make you take a double look over your shoulder at the quietest of sounds and with the knowledge which Kernick has this adds to the authenticity of the story.
Although the story is intended to be completely serious we can't elp but shake our heads at some of Bolt's actions i.e. Suspension from SOCA yet he chooses to undertake his own investigation thinking he has a lead.
There are many twists and turns throughout with a conclusion which will make anyone go from "Ooh" to "WTF?!".
I may be bias in saying this book is a good read but it is still one I'd recommend any fan of crime/thriller should pick up as rather than tip-toe round the edges he digs right in to the point. I can simply justify this by saying that I own all of his books and have now read all but two of the 10 he has written.
To conclude this review let's just say that Kernick has done it again and managed to write yet another gripping tale of crime, death, destruction, suspense and humour.
Overall rating 8.5/10
Deadline tells the story of an abduction of a child with a ransom of half a million pounds cash. Bringing in his main characters (whom appear in all of his books) Tina Boyd, Mike Bolt, Mo Kahn and "Big" Barry Freud Kernick creates a story that is gripping and page-turning with many twists and turns which we wouldn't have guessed would happen.
As the story goes on Mike Bolt takes control of the op. However, as with most of Kernick's novels, Bolt's actions go very wrong or the criminal gets the better of SOCA and Deadline is no exception.
Reading on Kernick drags us deeper into the criminal underground of London and how a place that many people adore can become a place in which serious crime and dangerous gangs are just around the corner. This novel really makes you realise how dangerous 'da streets, innit' can be and may make you take a double look over your shoulder at the quietest of sounds and with the knowledge which Kernick has this adds to the authenticity of the story.
Although the story is intended to be completely serious we can't elp but shake our heads at some of Bolt's actions i.e. Suspension from SOCA yet he chooses to undertake his own investigation thinking he has a lead.
There are many twists and turns throughout with a conclusion which will make anyone go from "Ooh" to "WTF?!".
I may be bias in saying this book is a good read but it is still one I'd recommend any fan of crime/thriller should pick up as rather than tip-toe round the edges he digs right in to the point. I can simply justify this by saying that I own all of his books and have now read all but two of the 10 he has written.
To conclude this review let's just say that Kernick has done it again and managed to write yet another gripping tale of crime, death, destruction, suspense and humour.
Overall rating 8.5/10
Saturday 19 June 2010
Not Necessariy Stoned, But Beautiful by Sean Eger
Full title: Not Necessarily Stoned, But Beautiful: The Making of Are You Experienced.
This book gives the full lowdown of how the Jimi Hendrix Experience wrote and recorded a landmark album of pure excellence. Are You Experienced (Correct title has no question mark) was an album which placed a stamp on the way rock music really should be: loud, overdriven and passionate. We are given an in-depth inform of the troubles, the fun and the love they had in getting a band together, finding suitable recording studios, getting the right sound and the lenthy times a song took to perfect.
Not Necessarily Stoned begins with the telling of how and why James Marshall Hendrix came to England and his learning to play how he did. Before forming the Experience Hendrix had been in a bunch of other bands before but nothing had really gone far and he soon left.
Many people will say and notice that he played a right handed Strat upside down. Although Fender was making lefties at that time they were rare and, according to Hendrix, "Shit". By playing a reverse guitar he was also able to use the trem bar with ease, adding to the style of his music (listen to "Little Wing" for an example of his whammy use).
As the book goes on we find out how he got his crunchy sound, that some of his fans were the most famous musicians around (Jimmy Page, Clapton, the Stones et al), how, where and when songs were written and finally, the drug problems he had which did not cause his death.
Had I have had the time I could have finished this book in a day, however, I didn't so it took me a few days but it was worth the read and the £2.99 I paid for it. If you've not listened to Hendrix before I think it's safe to say that this book will make you search his name and "Fire" on youtube.
This book also gives first-hand accounts from managers, fellow musicians (Mitchell and Redding) and spouses. Well worth the read.
9/10
This book gives the full lowdown of how the Jimi Hendrix Experience wrote and recorded a landmark album of pure excellence. Are You Experienced (Correct title has no question mark) was an album which placed a stamp on the way rock music really should be: loud, overdriven and passionate. We are given an in-depth inform of the troubles, the fun and the love they had in getting a band together, finding suitable recording studios, getting the right sound and the lenthy times a song took to perfect.
Not Necessarily Stoned begins with the telling of how and why James Marshall Hendrix came to England and his learning to play how he did. Before forming the Experience Hendrix had been in a bunch of other bands before but nothing had really gone far and he soon left.
Many people will say and notice that he played a right handed Strat upside down. Although Fender was making lefties at that time they were rare and, according to Hendrix, "Shit". By playing a reverse guitar he was also able to use the trem bar with ease, adding to the style of his music (listen to "Little Wing" for an example of his whammy use).
As the book goes on we find out how he got his crunchy sound, that some of his fans were the most famous musicians around (Jimmy Page, Clapton, the Stones et al), how, where and when songs were written and finally, the drug problems he had which did not cause his death.
Had I have had the time I could have finished this book in a day, however, I didn't so it took me a few days but it was worth the read and the £2.99 I paid for it. If you've not listened to Hendrix before I think it's safe to say that this book will make you search his name and "Fire" on youtube.
This book also gives first-hand accounts from managers, fellow musicians (Mitchell and Redding) and spouses. Well worth the read.
9/10
Monday 7 June 2010
The Desperate Diary of a Country Housewife by Daisy Waugh
Firstly: apologies for not writing a review on months, college has been a bit crazy what with catching up on old essays etc but I finally managed to finish the book that's been opening and closing for the past 3 months.
Spoilers follow
Moving on, this book is exactly as I expected it to be with the woman moving away, her husband being elsewhere and a builder hitting the scene. As I said in an earlier post, I planned to read some sort of chick-lit and here it is.
I did actually quite enjoy the book myself with there being moments of becoming buried within the pages hoping that this would happen etc. However, it isn't a book I would pick up and read again (or maybe I will but that'll be a long time from now) unless I really had the urge to.
The story tells of a married mum-of-2 who thinks she'll find paradise in the countryside, surrounded by fields, country pubs and the smell of nature. However, from the day she moves into the house things go wrong - her husband is constantly away for longer periods at a time, the house gets "hexed" and the kitchen falls apart after just being built. And then there's the builder she has an eye for - not the best of things to do when the other half is away.
And so the story moves on and I'm sure we can guess what happens when attraction begins between Mr. Builder and mum-of-2 but I'll let you find out the full story for yourself. This book may give you second ideas of moving to the countryside so also treat it as a handbook.
I found that the story was written in a rather typical fashion similar to "Confessions of a Shopaholic" with the woman being oh so womanly and pregnant with a kid which could have belonged to either man.
If you're a woman (or man) who is into typical chicklit then I'd say pick this up if you can find it (I managed to find it in Poundland when the actual RRP was £6.99 - bargain!), if you can't then it's no big loss.
In a nutshell: 4.5/10
Spoilers follow
Moving on, this book is exactly as I expected it to be with the woman moving away, her husband being elsewhere and a builder hitting the scene. As I said in an earlier post, I planned to read some sort of chick-lit and here it is.
I did actually quite enjoy the book myself with there being moments of becoming buried within the pages hoping that this would happen etc. However, it isn't a book I would pick up and read again (or maybe I will but that'll be a long time from now) unless I really had the urge to.
The story tells of a married mum-of-2 who thinks she'll find paradise in the countryside, surrounded by fields, country pubs and the smell of nature. However, from the day she moves into the house things go wrong - her husband is constantly away for longer periods at a time, the house gets "hexed" and the kitchen falls apart after just being built. And then there's the builder she has an eye for - not the best of things to do when the other half is away.
And so the story moves on and I'm sure we can guess what happens when attraction begins between Mr. Builder and mum-of-2 but I'll let you find out the full story for yourself. This book may give you second ideas of moving to the countryside so also treat it as a handbook.
I found that the story was written in a rather typical fashion similar to "Confessions of a Shopaholic" with the woman being oh so womanly and pregnant with a kid which could have belonged to either man.
If you're a woman (or man) who is into typical chicklit then I'd say pick this up if you can find it (I managed to find it in Poundland when the actual RRP was £6.99 - bargain!), if you can't then it's no big loss.
In a nutshell: 4.5/10
Tuesday 20 April 2010
Juno and Juliet by Julian Gough
The blurb on the back of this book reads "Juno and Juliet are beautiful teenage twins embarking on a degree course in Galway. So beutiful they are, in fact, that men cannot resist them, and the girl spend much of their time fending off the amourous advances of various reprobates, with often hilarious consequences. 1a modern, at time brilliantly ironic reworking of the classical fairytale, with nods to Shakespeare, Austen and Beckett. J+J is an intelligent look at the magical banality of student life which achieve that all too rare sunthesis of piercing observation and the feelgood factor"
When I picked this book up I initially thought I was going to be reading some typical chick-lit with the generics of "Single girl/woman looking for boyfriend, goes shopping, does housework" which I actually happened to be looking for (how is this going to be an eclectic book review blog without some chick-lit?) but I was slightly wrong. Yes it steers more towards chick-lit that your general fiction but it can also appeal to the male audience also.
J+J is written in a first-person perspective which I prefer as it can add more emotion or personal views to the reading. We are introduced to the two twins of the namesake, Juno and Juliet, the former who is considered by the latter to be the cleverer and wittier of the pair, despite them being identical and from the first page we get an insight into the personalities. From here on it flies through a tale of two students in university with the sex, drugs and alchohol playing a bit part to the story with some love and a stalker thrown in for good measure.
The twins are just like you'd imagine where they comfort each other and do everything (bar a few activities) together, very much like the end of the video at the end of this review.
Gough has a skill of writing which I've not read before and it is clear that he writes from experience and with much truth. This helps us to "connect" with the characters better as well as making it hard to put the book down. It is one of those books which you can get completely buried into where the words turn to pictures and you completely lose track of the time and your surroundings. I spent many hours over 3 days sat on my bed buried in this book desperate to know how it would end and would Juliet end up with the person she fell in love with.
Juliet can get a little irritating near the end, but only slightly and not enough to you want to tell her to just STFU(!)
I haven't quite read a novel this well written in a long time and it is one which I'd recommend to anyone interested in reading general fiction. This is a feel good read which, although slightly more feminine, would be good for a male audience also.
I'd rate this book at 4.5/5. It would make it to 5 if the aforementioned issue with Juliette was changed a little.
When I picked this book up I initially thought I was going to be reading some typical chick-lit with the generics of "Single girl/woman looking for boyfriend, goes shopping, does housework" which I actually happened to be looking for (how is this going to be an eclectic book review blog without some chick-lit?) but I was slightly wrong. Yes it steers more towards chick-lit that your general fiction but it can also appeal to the male audience also.
J+J is written in a first-person perspective which I prefer as it can add more emotion or personal views to the reading. We are introduced to the two twins of the namesake, Juno and Juliet, the former who is considered by the latter to be the cleverer and wittier of the pair, despite them being identical and from the first page we get an insight into the personalities. From here on it flies through a tale of two students in university with the sex, drugs and alchohol playing a bit part to the story with some love and a stalker thrown in for good measure.
The twins are just like you'd imagine where they comfort each other and do everything (bar a few activities) together, very much like the end of the video at the end of this review.
Gough has a skill of writing which I've not read before and it is clear that he writes from experience and with much truth. This helps us to "connect" with the characters better as well as making it hard to put the book down. It is one of those books which you can get completely buried into where the words turn to pictures and you completely lose track of the time and your surroundings. I spent many hours over 3 days sat on my bed buried in this book desperate to know how it would end and would Juliet end up with the person she fell in love with.
Juliet can get a little irritating near the end, but only slightly and not enough to you want to tell her to just STFU(!)
I haven't quite read a novel this well written in a long time and it is one which I'd recommend to anyone interested in reading general fiction. This is a feel good read which, although slightly more feminine, would be good for a male audience also.
I'd rate this book at 4.5/5. It would make it to 5 if the aforementioned issue with Juliette was changed a little.
Saturday 17 April 2010
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (Penguin Classics)
Word of note: The edition I will be reviewing is the Penguin Classics edition so your version may be very slightly different to this.
WARNING: SPOILERS FOLLOW
Frankenstein is a book not for the light-minded. By this I mean you have to be willing to read through some early 19th century English, and it's tricky! If you can do that you are on your way to reading in my opinion, a slightly above average book.
The story begins with a selection of letter sent from a sailor to his Sister, Margaret. He goes on about the sea and such like (basically whatever sailors wrote about back then) until he mentions about a strange creature floating of a raft beside the ship. Obviously he takes the man on-board (who, by the end of the book we find out is Victor Frankenstein) and Franky proceeds to tell a story.
We hear of Frankenstein's background, what inspired him to become a (mad) scientist and his family, although I don't recall being given a reason as to why he decided to create another life or how it was brought to life. Maybe my mind skimmed it.
From herein it gets more interesting. We read of Frankenstein being ill and nearly dying (a common occurence/theme throughout) due to the shock of realising what he has created - a monster capable of doing unspeakable things. Nine months of illness and Franky is finally back on his feet again, and reading letters sent from his Dad with information about his sister being found murdered. Instantly our Doctor snaps his fingers (sic) and realises what his creation has done or become.
We're now sent on a journey of searching through snow, wilderness and water until Franky finds his monster. The monster now proceeds to give us a long account of what happened since he diappeared from Frankensteins lab. It is here that we start to feel slightly sorry for him as he is constantly rejected and thought of an evil and grotesque being but this will change in good time.
Our Dr. then takes us on a journey of murder, mayhem and dungeons until he ends up getting married only to have his wife killed by his own creature. Now begins the years long persuits until Frankenstein ends up floting onto the aforementioned ship. The story then goes back to the letters and finishes with Frankenstein dying and the monster being upset and disappearing into the oceans.
When I first ppicked up and opened Frankenstein I was expecting a "thrill of a read". Instead, I was presented with endless dialogue and some boring narrative but it was a good book. Regarding Shelley's writing, I'd have to say it was only average. At points she made it exciting but at others it seems she just wanted to fill up a page. This book didn't reach my expectations, I'm sorry to say. However, I would still recommend it to anyone interested in reading it.
There is one very common mistake when it comes to putting the monster on film: He is not green with a rectangular head and bolts sticking out of his neck; he is made of body parts taken from graves.
Final conclusion: 3/5
WARNING: SPOILERS FOLLOW
Frankenstein is a book not for the light-minded. By this I mean you have to be willing to read through some early 19th century English, and it's tricky! If you can do that you are on your way to reading in my opinion, a slightly above average book.
The story begins with a selection of letter sent from a sailor to his Sister, Margaret. He goes on about the sea and such like (basically whatever sailors wrote about back then) until he mentions about a strange creature floating of a raft beside the ship. Obviously he takes the man on-board (who, by the end of the book we find out is Victor Frankenstein) and Franky proceeds to tell a story.
We hear of Frankenstein's background, what inspired him to become a (mad) scientist and his family, although I don't recall being given a reason as to why he decided to create another life or how it was brought to life. Maybe my mind skimmed it.
From herein it gets more interesting. We read of Frankenstein being ill and nearly dying (a common occurence/theme throughout) due to the shock of realising what he has created - a monster capable of doing unspeakable things. Nine months of illness and Franky is finally back on his feet again, and reading letters sent from his Dad with information about his sister being found murdered. Instantly our Doctor snaps his fingers (sic) and realises what his creation has done or become.
We're now sent on a journey of searching through snow, wilderness and water until Franky finds his monster. The monster now proceeds to give us a long account of what happened since he diappeared from Frankensteins lab. It is here that we start to feel slightly sorry for him as he is constantly rejected and thought of an evil and grotesque being but this will change in good time.
Our Dr. then takes us on a journey of murder, mayhem and dungeons until he ends up getting married only to have his wife killed by his own creature. Now begins the years long persuits until Frankenstein ends up floting onto the aforementioned ship. The story then goes back to the letters and finishes with Frankenstein dying and the monster being upset and disappearing into the oceans.
When I first ppicked up and opened Frankenstein I was expecting a "thrill of a read". Instead, I was presented with endless dialogue and some boring narrative but it was a good book. Regarding Shelley's writing, I'd have to say it was only average. At points she made it exciting but at others it seems she just wanted to fill up a page. This book didn't reach my expectations, I'm sorry to say. However, I would still recommend it to anyone interested in reading it.
There is one very common mistake when it comes to putting the monster on film: He is not green with a rectangular head and bolts sticking out of his neck; he is made of body parts taken from graves.
Final conclusion: 3/5
Tuesday 13 April 2010
Follow me on Twitter
Never really thought I'd do this but I've set up a Twitter page for this book review blog thing. I won't be using it for personal tweets as I'm trying to keep away from all that social networking rubbish for now but I shall return to Facebook sometime, mainly to advertise this.
Anyone else think Facebook is a bit of a waste of time?
On subject: Next review to come up is Frankenstein (1818) by Mary Shelley.
(www.twitter.com/eclecticreading)
Anyone else think Facebook is a bit of a waste of time?
On subject: Next review to come up is Frankenstein (1818) by Mary Shelley.
(www.twitter.com/eclecticreading)
Sunday 11 April 2010
Emergency - Neil Strauss
After reading reviews of this book on Amazon (after having finished it) I've noticed that many people seem to have thought this book was a survival manual. However, nowhere does it claim to be such a thing. It is quite simply the story of a man's journey of learning how to survive economic meltdown. Now that that's cleared up, lets get to the main bit.
"Emergency" (2009) is the newest book from Neil Strauss, best-selling author of The Game (which I have previously read twice) and "How to Make Love Like A Pornstar" with Jenna Jameson. It is a story of a man who seems to be worried that America is coming to an end, and in a way he is close to being right, what with the recession and many banks going bankrupt etc. This worry inspires him first to try and get a citizenship in another country so he has somewhere to escape to WTSHTF (When the shit hits the fan). Whilst waiting for his citizenship, Strauss spends three years learning how to look after himself in a rural or natural environment as well as shooting guns, wielding knives and slaughtering deers (the latter story isn't really for the faint-of-heart).
Having already read The Game, I already believed that Strauss wasn't exactly with it but then when I finished Emergency, my thoughts were proven to be true. Reading through the book I was thinking he must be a bit crazy to spend thousands of dollars on learning how to shoot a gun in 1.5 seconds or how to slaughter, skin and cook a goat as well as how to build a tent/cover out of twigs and leaves, but he did it and his experience makes a very interesting read.
Emergency definately wasn't as good as The Game but, had I the time, I probably still would have shot through it (damn studying and essay writing). It was interesting, deep, funny and slightly inspiring (although I wouldn't spend 2000 dollars on learning to throw a knife). If you've read The Game in the past I'd recommend this to you. If not then I'd say The Game is the book which should be read first, then move onto Emergency.
Overall: 3.5/5. Not the best book I've read and slightly slow to begin with but when the story got going I spent 5 hours sat on my bed until 2am when I finished the book.
"Emergency" (2009) is the newest book from Neil Strauss, best-selling author of The Game (which I have previously read twice) and "How to Make Love Like A Pornstar" with Jenna Jameson. It is a story of a man who seems to be worried that America is coming to an end, and in a way he is close to being right, what with the recession and many banks going bankrupt etc. This worry inspires him first to try and get a citizenship in another country so he has somewhere to escape to WTSHTF (When the shit hits the fan). Whilst waiting for his citizenship, Strauss spends three years learning how to look after himself in a rural or natural environment as well as shooting guns, wielding knives and slaughtering deers (the latter story isn't really for the faint-of-heart).
Having already read The Game, I already believed that Strauss wasn't exactly with it but then when I finished Emergency, my thoughts were proven to be true. Reading through the book I was thinking he must be a bit crazy to spend thousands of dollars on learning how to shoot a gun in 1.5 seconds or how to slaughter, skin and cook a goat as well as how to build a tent/cover out of twigs and leaves, but he did it and his experience makes a very interesting read.
Emergency definately wasn't as good as The Game but, had I the time, I probably still would have shot through it (damn studying and essay writing). It was interesting, deep, funny and slightly inspiring (although I wouldn't spend 2000 dollars on learning to throw a knife). If you've read The Game in the past I'd recommend this to you. If not then I'd say The Game is the book which should be read first, then move onto Emergency.
Overall: 3.5/5. Not the best book I've read and slightly slow to begin with but when the story got going I spent 5 hours sat on my bed until 2am when I finished the book.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)