This is the first Vonnegut book I was able to get into. I think it does a great job at introducing you to his odd and eccentric style. The crude drawiThis is the first Vonnegut book I was able to get into. I think it does a great job at introducing you to his odd and eccentric style. The crude drawings and clever observations of the human condition, while following characters' lives without any important point to be made is what makes Vonnegut special. Vonnegut is the master of stringing together unrelated absurdities that make us want to find some kind of purpose--but he proves time and time again that life is random. After this book, I'm ready to read all the Vonnegut I can get my hands on....more
Frank McCourt does an amazing job paying homage to the great Modernist authors who criticize as well as revel in the portrayal of the American Dream. Frank McCourt does an amazing job paying homage to the great Modernist authors who criticize as well as revel in the portrayal of the American Dream. McCourt writes a memoir that not only tells of his life, but paints an amazing picture of Irish Catholicism, poverty, and rising from the ashes. Life is hard, but it sure as hell isn't boring. McCourt reminds me of a mix of Hemingway and Joyce, exposing religious flaws, economic imperfections, while also just giving a very real portrayal of an average person's experience, full of tragedy and hope, constantly intercepting on another. Definitely recommend....more
I listened to this book, rather than read it, which I think is why I enjoyed it so much. I have been trying to dive into the world of nonfiction more,I listened to this book, rather than read it, which I think is why I enjoyed it so much. I have been trying to dive into the world of nonfiction more, and this book definitely got me hungering for more. I didn't know I could care so much about the mating rituals of birds or be so aghast by the nature of ducks, but Prum does an incredible job at making something so ordinary incredibly riveting. I have never talked about a book as much as this one. Definitely recommend....more
I loved that this book told a mostly nonfiction account in the first person. I found it a truly unique form of a biographical tale. I don't feel this I loved that this book told a mostly nonfiction account in the first person. I found it a truly unique form of a biographical tale. I don't feel this book was written for fans of Hemingway, however, despite it being about Hemingway's first wife. The phrasing and dialogue was most unrealistic for me and often felt forced. I did find there were moments that left me absolutely heartbroken, though, as well as candid moments I was able to relate to. A fun and intriguing read, but won't read again....more