Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Stephen goes Stateside, 01 Oct 2008
"Oh no, not ANOTHER travel book, written by some jumped-up celebrity hoofing it around some unheard of corner of the world, almost gloating at me, saying 'Look where I am, you're not here, ha ha'...oh, hang on! Stephen Fry, is it? I quite like him. And he's in America? Hmmm...I'm intrigued."
And that's how this book made it into my hands. I don't usually go for books like these, but because it's Stephen Fry, I took the plunge. Am I ever glad I did.
Stephen Fry travels across USA's 50 states on a mission: to discover the real America. As a country everyone seems to have an opinion on, this comes as being very timely. Is the stereotype of the 'Fat Dumb Yankee' fact or fiction?
In the hands of any other author, such a journey would be dull and cliched, always ending with the inevitable 'my perception's completely changed' wrap-up. But such is Stephen Fry's voice, intelligence and wit, that his writing leaps out at you, and you can almost hear his voice booming in your ear as he guides you from Maine to Hawaii in a black cab. His observations and opinions are wonderful; insightful yet humourous, thoughtful yet sharp. What's best is that it allows you to draw your own conclusions. All the evidence is laid out before the reader: it's up to you to make your own assumptions.

This is a book that could be recommended to practically anyone and everyone: it's big, full of lavish pictures and crammed with facts, and can be either dipped into or read cover to cover. It's a perfect companion piece to the upcoming TV series. Brilliant.

Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Stephen goes Stateside, 01 Oct 2008
"Oh no, not ANOTHER travel book, written by some jumped-up celebrity hoofing it around some unheard of corner of the world, almost gloating at me, saying 'Look where I am, you're not here, ha ha'...oh, hang on! Stephen Fry, is it? I quite like him. And he's in America? Hmmm...I'm intrigued."
And that's how this book made it into my hands. I don't usually go for books like these, but because it's Stephen Fry, I took the plunge. Am I ever glad I did.
Stephen Fry travels across USA's 50 states on a mission: to discover the real America. As a country everyone seems to have an opinion on, this comes as being very timely. Is the stereotype of the 'Fat Dumb Yankee' fact or fiction?
In the hands of any other author, such a journey would be dull and cliched, always ending with the inevitable 'my perception's completely changed' wrap-up. But such is Stephen Fry's voice, intelligence and wit, that his writing leaps out at you, and you can almost hear his voice booming in your ear as he guides you from Maine to Hawaii in a black cab. His observations and opinions are wonderful; insightful yet humourous, thoughtful yet sharp. What's best is that it allows you to draw your own conclusions. All the evidence is laid out before the reader: it's up to you to make your own assumptions.

This is a book that could be recommended to practically anyone and everyone: it's big, full of lavish pictures and crammed with facts, and can be either dipped into or read cover to cover. It's a perfect companion piece to the upcoming TV series. Brilliant.

Maybe he should never have written nr 2...., 24 Jul 2008
I have been waiting for this book for years.... and now when I have read it, I hope it was never written. IT does not at all live up the the Pillars of earth. Neither does it compare to some of the other good books Ken Follet has written. 150 pages less and it might have been ok. I try to end all the books I start, but this was heavy. The story line was light, some of the "histories" within the story are totally out of scope (like nuns in french war). I read 6 books in my vacation. This was the worst.

Loved it!, 23 Jul 2008
I read Pillars of the Earth and thoroughly enjoyed it (apart from the lame plot line at the beginning with the builder meeting the exotic woman of the woods!). This one had a lot to live up to and I have to say, I prefer it to the first one. There is a little less 'technical' material about the building work that is going on and more about the characters and the goings on in their personal lives. There were so many sub-plots, I almost lost count, but this adds to the intrigue. I find this era in history fascinating and I think that's what I found so appealing about the story. I feel bereft now I have finished it and am desperately trying to find another book to replace the void.

Brilliant Sequel to Pillars of the Earth, 22 May 2008
Pillars of the Earth is my all time favorite novel, so although I usually wait for the paperback, when I saw the reduced price of the hardback at Amazon, I immediately ordered it. It was well worth it. However "Sequels are not equal". So I only give it four stars, although I admit, my expectations after Pillars of the Earth were extremely high. While brilliant, after Pillars of the Earth, I felt it lacked somewhat in originality. Also, I am not a prude, but I found the graphic sex as depicted not believable, considering the historical period and the morals of the time. Otherwise it appears to be well researched and historical accurate. In any case, a good read!

Ken Follet at his best, 20 Apr 2008
I wanted to wait for the paperback to come out, but I did not have the patience. Now I am glad I did not. If you liked The Pillars of the Earth you will love this one. It is very similar, but maybe even easier to read. All the characters are brand new, and even if there are some allusions to those that appeared in his celebrated novel, it is not necessary at all to have read it to enjoy this one.Even though it is a very long book, once you start you cannot stop.
It is a best-seller, yes;but a most enjoyable one.

Fabulous but formulaic, 19 Apr 2008
Pillars of the Earth remains one of the best loved books from my late teens, but Follett's more recent books have been increasingly weak, so I had mixed feelings about reading this one.

I'm very pleased to report that World Without End represents something of a return to form.

It contains most of the elements that made Pillars such a success - strong central characters, historical detail, suspense, injustice, outrage, romance and a central building project. In fact, it shares so many elements that had it been written by any other author then it would be condemned as a cheap knock-off. Fortunately, it's pretty well done.

There is a good feel for the historical period, some tremendous characters and a storyline that continues to evolve at a fast enough pace to justify the size of the tome!

Some parts do grate. The end feels slightly rushed (amazingly for such a long novel) and some parts are utterly contrived (Crècy) and I was frankly sick of Follett's habit of recapping the earlier sections of the book when explaining his characters' thought processes. He also tended to explain how his characters were trying to manipulate each other too clearly - it sometimes felt like the novel was aimed only at schoolkids.

Good but not great, at least in comparison to the original.

Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Stephen goes Stateside, 01 Oct 2008
"Oh no, not ANOTHER travel book, written by some jumped-up celebrity hoofing it around some unheard of corner of the world, almost gloating at me, saying 'Look where I am, you're not here, ha ha'...oh, hang on! Stephen Fry, is it? I quite like him. And he's in America? Hmmm...I'm intrigued."
And that's how this book made it into my hands. I don't usually go for books like these, but because it's Stephen Fry, I took the plunge. Am I ever glad I did.
Stephen Fry travels across USA's 50 states on a mission: to discover the real America. As a country everyone seems to have an opinion on, this comes as being very timely. Is the stereotype of the 'Fat Dumb Yankee' fact or fiction?
In the hands of any other author, such a journey would be dull and cliched, always ending with the inevitable 'my perception's completely changed' wrap-up. But such is Stephen Fry's voice, intelligence and wit, that his writing leaps out at you, and you can almost hear his voice booming in your ear as he guides you from Maine to Hawaii in a black cab. His observations and opinions are wonderful; insightful yet humourous, thoughtful yet sharp. What's best is that it allows you to draw your own conclusions. All the evidence is laid out before the reader: it's up to you to make your own assumptions.

This is a book that could be recommended to practically anyone and everyone: it's big, full of lavish pictures and crammed with facts, and can be either dipped into or read cover to cover. It's a perfect companion piece to the upcoming TV series. Brilliant.

Maybe he should never have written nr 2...., 24 Jul 2008
I have been waiting for this book for years.... and now when I have read it, I hope it was never written. IT does not at all live up the the Pillars of earth. Neither does it compare to some of the other good books Ken Follet has written. 150 pages less and it might have been ok. I try to end all the books I start, but this was heavy. The story line was light, some of the "histories" within the story are totally out of scope (like nuns in french war). I read 6 books in my vacation. This was the worst.

Loved it!, 23 Jul 2008
I read Pillars of the Earth and thoroughly enjoyed it (apart from the lame plot line at the beginning with the builder meeting the exotic woman of the woods!). This one had a lot to live up to and I have to say, I prefer it to the first one. There is a little less 'technical' material about the building work that is going on and more about the characters and the goings on in their personal lives. There were so many sub-plots, I almost lost count, but this adds to the intrigue. I find this era in history fascinating and I think that's what I found so appealing about the story. I feel bereft now I have finished it and am desperately trying to find another book to replace the void.

Brilliant Sequel to Pillars of the Earth, 22 May 2008
Pillars of the Earth is my all time favorite novel, so although I usually wait for the paperback, when I saw the reduced price of the hardback at Amazon, I immediately ordered it. It was well worth it. However "Sequels are not equal". So I only give it four stars, although I admit, my expectations after Pillars of the Earth were extremely high. While brilliant, after Pillars of the Earth, I felt it lacked somewhat in originality. Also, I am not a prude, but I found the graphic sex as depicted not believable, considering the historical period and the morals of the time. Otherwise it appears to be well researched and historical accurate. In any case, a good read!

Ken Follet at his best, 20 Apr 2008
I wanted to wait for the paperback to come out, but I did not have the patience. Now I am glad I did not. If you liked The Pillars of the Earth you will love this one. It is very similar, but maybe even easier to read. All the characters are brand new, and even if there are some allusions to those that appeared in his celebrated novel, it is not necessary at all to have read it to enjoy this one.Even though it is a very long book, once you start you cannot stop.
It is a best-seller, yes;but a most enjoyable one.

Fabulous but formulaic, 19 Apr 2008
Pillars of the Earth remains one of the best loved books from my late teens, but Follett's more recent books have been increasingly weak, so I had mixed feelings about reading this one.

I'm very pleased to report that World Without End represents something of a return to form.

It contains most of the elements that made Pillars such a success - strong central characters, historical detail, suspense, injustice, outrage, romance and a central building project. In fact, it shares so many elements that had it been written by any other author then it would be condemned as a cheap knock-off. Fortunately, it's pretty well done.

There is a good feel for the historical period, some tremendous characters and a storyline that continues to evolve at a fast enough pace to justify the size of the tome!

Some parts do grate. The end feels slightly rushed (amazingly for such a long novel) and some parts are utterly contrived (Crècy) and I was frankly sick of Follett's habit of recapping the earlier sections of the book when explaining his characters' thought processes. He also tended to explain how his characters were trying to manipulate each other too clearly - it sometimes felt like the novel was aimed only at schoolkids.

Good but not great, at least in comparison to the original.

Okay historical fiction but not memorable, 23 Sep 2008
The strength of the book is the detailed description of the development of a cathedral and its impact on the prosperity of a town through a page-turning narrative and fictional characters. It is a fairly easy read on a difficult subject. It covers the civil war during the 12th century (Stephen and Maud) The downside is it is not a very memorable read. When my book club recommended it, I did not even remember I had aready done so! I certainly would not say don't read it - especially if you are doing GCSE architecture or medieval history. It does bring the period to life more than a textbook would and that can spur you on to learn more. However, it is not a great piece of historical fiction.

Badly Written Rubbish!, 23 Sep 2008
Really, really, poorly written book. Possibly the most boring I have ever read. Doesn't any one read this before it's published? Why didn't someone read it before and say, "Hold on, Ken, I've just read the first few chapters and I'm losing the will to live. Don't make me suffer any more."

Just because it's in print, it doesn't make it any good. This, is the Emperor's new trousers. And so many, so, so many have been fooled.


Entertaining read, 12 Sep 2008
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, there are a couple of aspects that for me rather spoil it. Firstly, was there any need for the sex scenes to be quite so graphic? and secondly, the writing style is a bit basic. I also have to agree with those reviewers who have given the book only one star - characterisation was poor and one-dimensional, there was some annoying repetition, and although I'm no expert on the period, there did seem to be some glaring historical inaccuracies. That said, this is a novel and not a textbook, and should be read with that in mind. I guess I would describe this book as an ideal, easy holiday read.

Over long and a bit of a let down, 05 Sep 2008
I was disappointed by this book. I totally agree with H. Morris's review. Everything is predictable, the story is very much like a soap opera (with the goodies and the baddies) and it drags on and on. Not gripping like I imagined it would be. I had to stop half way through as I felt I was wasting my time.

Overlong Unchallenging Medeival Soap Opera, 18 Aug 2008
At over 1000 pages this is a long book. There's no doubt the plot is gripping and the characters larger than life but the same can be said about Eastenders. When the book hits top form it is very good- particularly if you are interested in the social history of the period. Some of the set-pieces and plot twists are also good value but the book is let down by characters. They are too broadly painted. Everyone is either a goody or a Pantomime villain and the predictability of their actions does start to grate. Also the whole book seems to be a never ending succession of dramas, problems or stitch-ups facing the good guys each with their triumph duly coming a few pages later. Like a dodgy actor faking an accent in a film, the tone and authenticity of the characters also seems to waver. Some of the dialogue is completely unconvincing and at times you have to remind yourself you're in 12th not 21st century England. I'm no book snob but the prose was far to simple and if it wasn't for the gratuitous sex then it would be suitable for any Harry potter Fan. Basically if you're on holiday and are the type of person who would like to read 3 Dan Brown's in a row than you'll love this. If you Like your books to challenge you and you have a reading age of over 14 then there must be other books out there that do the same thing but better. ps. I still haven't got a clue what a nave or chancel is...

In 1922, F Scott Fitzgerald announced his decision to write "something new--something extraordinary and beautiful and simple, intricately patterned". That extraordinary, beautiful, intricately patterned and, above all, simple novel became The Great Gatsby, arguably Fitzgerald's finest work and certainly the book for which he is best known. A portrait of the Jazz Age in all of its decadence and excess, Gatsby captured the spirit of the author's generation and earned itself a permanent place in American mythology. Self-made, self-invented millionaire Jay Gatsby embodies some of Fitzgerald's--and his country's--most abiding obsessions: money, ambition, greed and the promise of new beginnings. "Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgiastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter--tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther... And one fine morning--" Gatsby's rise to glory and eventual fall from grace be comes a kind of cautionary tale about the American Dream.

It's also a love story, of sorts, the narrative of Gatsby's quixotic passion for Daisy Buchanan. The pair meet five years before the novel begins, when Daisy is a legendary young Louisville beauty and Gatsby an impoverished officer. They fall in love, but while Gatsby serves overseas, Daisy marries the brutal, bullying but extremely rich Tom Buchanan. After the war, Gatsby devotes himself blindly to the pursuit of wealth by whatever means--and to the pursuit of Daisy, which amounts to the same thing. "Her voice is full of money," Gatsby says admiringly, in one of the novel's more famous descriptions. His millions made, Gatsby buys a mansion across Long Island Sound from Daisy's patrician East Egg address, throws lavish parties and waits for her to appear. When s he does, events unfold with all the tragic inevitability of a Greek drama, with detached, cynical neighbour Nick Carraway acting as chorus throughout. Spare, elegantly plotted and written in crystalline prose, The Great Gatsby is as perfectly satisfying as the best kind of poem. Perry Freeman, Amazon.com

Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Stephen goes Stateside, 01 Oct 2008
"Oh no, not ANOTHER travel book, written by some jumped-up celebrity hoofing it around some unheard of corner of the world, almost gloating at me, saying 'Look where I am, you're not here, ha ha'...oh, hang on! Stephen Fry, is it? I quite like him. And he's in America? Hmmm...I'm intrigued."
And that's how this book made it into my hands. I don't usually go for books like these, but because it's Stephen Fry, I took the plunge. Am I ever glad I did.
Stephen Fry travels across USA's 50 states on a mission: to discover the real America. As a country everyone seems to have an opinion on, this comes as being very timely. Is the stereotype of the 'Fat Dumb Yankee' fact or fiction?
In the hands of any other author, such a journey would be dull and cliched, always ending with the inevitable 'my perception's completely changed' wrap-up. But such is Stephen Fry's voice, intelligence and wit, that his writing leaps out at you, and you can almost hear his voice booming in your ear as he guides you from Maine to Hawaii in a black cab. His observations and opinions are wonderful; insightful yet humourous, thoughtful yet sharp. What's best is that it allows you to draw your own conclusions. All the evidence is laid out before the reader: it's up to you to make your own assumptions.

This is a book that could be recommended to practically anyone and everyone: it's big, full of lavish pictures and crammed with facts, and can be either dipped into or read cover to cover. It's a perfect companion piece to the upcoming TV series. Brilliant.

Maybe he should never have written nr 2...., 24 Jul 2008
I have been waiting for this book for years.... and now when I have read it, I hope it was never written. IT does not at all live up the the Pillars of earth. Neither does it compare to some of the other good books Ken Follet has written. 150 pages less and it might have been ok. I try to end all the books I start, but this was heavy. The story line was light, some of the "histories" within the story are totally out of scope (like nuns in french war). I read 6 books in my vacation. This was the worst.

Loved it!, 23 Jul 2008
I read Pillars of the Earth and thoroughly enjoyed it (apart from the lame plot line at the beginning with the builder meeting the exotic woman of the woods!). This one had a lot to live up to and I have to say, I prefer it to the first one. There is a little less 'technical' material about the building work that is going on and more about the characters and the goings on in their personal lives. There were so many sub-plots, I almost lost count, but this adds to the intrigue. I find this era in history fascinating and I think that's what I found so appealing about the story. I feel bereft now I have finished it and am desperately trying to find another book to replace the void.

Brilliant Sequel to Pillars of the Earth, 22 May 2008
Pillars of the Earth is my all time favorite novel, so although I usually wait for the paperback, when I saw the reduced price of the hardback at Amazon, I immediately ordered it. It was well worth it. However "Sequels are not equal". So I only give it four stars, although I admit, my expectations after Pillars of the Earth were extremely high. While brilliant, after Pillars of the Earth, I felt it lacked somewhat in originality. Also, I am not a prude, but I found the graphic sex as depicted not believable, considering the historical period and the morals of the time. Otherwise it appears to be well researched and historical accurate. In any case, a good read!

Ken Follet at his best, 20 Apr 2008
I wanted to wait for the paperback to come out, but I did not have the patience. Now I am glad I did not. If you liked The Pillars of the Earth you will love this one. It is very similar, but maybe even easier to read. All the characters are brand new, and even if there are some allusions to those that appeared in his celebrated novel, it is not necessary at all to have read it to enjoy this one.Even though it is a very long book, once you start you cannot stop.
It is a best-seller, yes;but a most enjoyable one.

Fabulous but formulaic, 19 Apr 2008
Pillars of the Earth remains one of the best loved books from my late teens, but Follett's more recent books have been increasingly weak, so I had mixed feelings about reading this one.

I'm very pleased to report that World Without End represents something of a return to form.

It contains most of the elements that made Pillars such a success - strong central characters, historical detail, suspense, injustice, outrage, romance and a central building project. In fact, it shares so many elements that had it been written by any other author then it would be condemned as a cheap knock-off. Fortunately, it's pretty well done.

There is a good feel for the historical period, some tremendous characters and a storyline that continues to evolve at a fast enough pace to justify the size of the tome!

Some parts do grate. The end feels slightly rushed (amazingly for such a long novel) and some parts are utterly contrived (Crècy) and I was frankly sick of Follett's habit of recapping the earlier sections of the book when explaining his characters' thought processes. He also tended to explain how his characters were trying to manipulate each other too clearly - it sometimes felt like the novel was aimed only at schoolkids.

Good but not great, at least in comparison to the original.

Okay historical fiction but not memorable, 23 Sep 2008
The strength of the book is the detailed description of the development of a cathedral and its impact on the prosperity of a town through a page-turning narrative and fictional characters. It is a fairly easy read on a difficult subject. It covers the civil war during the 12th century (Stephen and Maud) The downside is it is not a very memorable read. When my book club recommended it, I did not even remember I had aready done so! I certainly would not say don't read it - especially if you are doing GCSE architecture or medieval history. It does bring the period to life more than a textbook would and that can spur you on to learn more. However, it is not a great piece of historical fiction.

Badly Written Rubbish!, 23 Sep 2008
Really, really, poorly written book. Possibly the most boring I have ever read. Doesn't any one read this before it's published? Why didn't someone read it before and say, "Hold on, Ken, I've just read the first few chapters and I'm losing the will to live. Don't make me suffer any more."

Just because it's in print, it doesn't make it any good. This, is the Emperor's new trousers. And so many, so, so many have been fooled.


Entertaining read, 12 Sep 2008
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, there are a couple of aspects that for me rather spoil it. Firstly, was there any need for the sex scenes to be quite so graphic? and secondly, the writing style is a bit basic. I also have to agree with those reviewers who have given the book only one star - characterisation was poor and one-dimensional, there was some annoying repetition, and although I'm no expert on the period, there did seem to be some glaring historical inaccuracies. That said, this is a novel and not a textbook, and should be read with that in mind. I guess I would describe this book as an ideal, easy holiday read.

Over long and a bit of a let down, 05 Sep 2008
I was disappointed by this book. I totally agree with H. Morris's review. Everything is predictable, the story is very much like a soap opera (with the goodies and the baddies) and it drags on and on. Not gripping like I imagined it would be. I had to stop half way through as I felt I was wasting my time.

Overlong Unchallenging Medeival Soap Opera, 18 Aug 2008
At over 1000 pages this is a long book. There's no doubt the plot is gripping and the characters larger than life but the same can be said about Eastenders. When the book hits top form it is very good- particularly if you are interested in the social history of the period. Some of the set-pieces and plot twists are also good value but the book is let down by characters. They are too broadly painted. Everyone is either a goody or a Pantomime villain and the predictability of their actions does start to grate. Also the whole book seems to be a never ending succession of dramas, problems or stitch-ups facing the good guys each with their triumph duly coming a few pages later. Like a dodgy actor faking an accent in a film, the tone and authenticity of the characters also seems to waver. Some of the dialogue is completely unconvincing and at times you have to remind yourself you're in 12th not 21st century England. I'm no book snob but the prose was far to simple and if it wasn't for the gratuitous sex then it would be suitable for any Harry potter Fan. Basically if you're on holiday and are the type of person who would like to read 3 Dan Brown's in a row than you'll love this. If you Like your books to challenge you and you have a reading age of over 14 then there must be other books out there that do the same thing but better. ps. I still haven't got a clue what a nave or chancel is...

Ben Dinsdale, 23 Sep 2008
I am Gay and i think you'll find that this story still resonates but more like a just-polished cameo piece from a forgotten time. At the core of the book is the elaborate infatuation Jay Gatsby has for Daisy Fay Buchanan, a love story portrayed with both a languid pall and a fatalistic urgency. But the broader context of the setting and the irreconcilable nature of the American dream in the 1920's is what give the novel its true gravitas.

Much of this is eloquently articulated by Nick Carraway, Gatsby's modest Long Island neighbor who becomes his most trusted confidante. Nick is responsible for reuniting the lovers who both have come to different points in their lives five years after their aborted romance. Now a solitary figure in his luxurious mansion, Gatsby is a newly wealthy man who accumulated his fortunes through dubious means. Daisy, on the other hand, has always led a life of privilege and could not let love stand in the way of her comfortable existence. She married Tom Buchanan for that sole purpose. With Gatsby's ambition spurred by his love for Daisy, he rekindles his romance with Daisy, as Tom carries on carelessly with an auto mechanic's grasping wife. Nick himself gets caught up in the jet set trappings and has a relationship with Jordan Baker, a young golf pro.

These characters are inevitably led on a collision course that exposes the hypocrisy of the rich, the falsity of a love undeserving and the transience of individuals on this earth. The strength of Fitzgerald's treatment comes from the lyrical prose he provides to illuminate these themes. Not a word is wasted, and the author's economical handling of such a potentially complex plot is a technique I wish were more frequently replicated today. Most of all, I simply enjoy the book because it does not portend a greater significance eighty years later. It is a classic tale that provides vibrancy and texture to a bygone era. It is well worth re-reading, especially at such a bargain price.

What a read!, 22 Apr 2008
One of my resolutions for 2008 is to broaden my literary horizens. After studying English Lit to A-Level, my interest has fallen to the wayside. So on my quest to better myself through literature, I read "The Old Man and the Sea", which I just couldn't relate to. So imagine my relief when I started reading "The Great Gatsby". I'm so glad I perservered with classic books!

TGG is a great read. It's fast-paced from the outset, and gripping towards the end - I couldn't put it down. I even tried to convince family and friends to read it afterwards; but to no avail - so if I manage to get even ONE person to read it from writing this review, then good! Definitely recommended.

The great American novel?, 25 Mar 2008
Beautifully written, spare, dramatic and haunting - could this at last be the great American novel?

Good, but I don't see what all the fuss is about., 26 Dec 2007
A rather interesting novel and initially it wasn't all that apparent to me why people always linked the failure of the American dream and this story together. Superficially the story is that of love reawakening, Gatsby having initially been rejected by his childhood love for not having sufficient means acquires the means through various ill gotten ways and the lovers reunite despite the fact that she is not married to a boorish but very American man. Much is made that this novel is a startling exposition of the American dream and materialism, and it does this but to a lesser extent than most people make out. I didn't find the metaphors to be profound after reflection nor did I think the plot and language to be that great. That said it still was a fairly good book, an enjoyable read though a bit of anti-climax to what I had been expecting. The characters aren't particularly likeable and stay only briefly in memory, the story entertains but I feel that this book doesn't deserve all the acclaim it has got.

Few books grip your imagination as easily as this one, 27 Aug 2007
Oh, the casual ease with which this romance is written is staggering. It is not without its little faults as a whole, but then what book is?! The sad and whistful story of a nearly man is entirley subordinate to the smoothly poetic style it is written in and yet is complemented perfectly by it, and elevated by it. This is a really melancholy tale and if you're feeling a bit emotionally down for whatever reason, I'd even put off reading it until you're fighting fit again, as it really is affecting. Some may want a more concrete story than the author is clearly willing to give, but if you can live with (deliberate) vagueness of details and you love a good mystery and a romance then you cannot go wrong with this delightful story.

Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Stephen goes Stateside, 01 Oct 2008
"Oh no, not ANOTHER travel book, written by some jumped-up celebrity hoofing it around some unheard of corner of the world, almost gloating at me, saying 'Look where I am, you're not here, ha ha'...oh, hang on! Stephen Fry, is it? I quite like him. And he's in America? Hmmm...I'm intrigued."
And that's how this book made it into my hands. I don't usually go for books like these, but because it's Stephen Fry, I took the plunge. Am I ever glad I did.
Stephen Fry travels across USA's 50 states on a mission: to discover the real America. As a country everyone seems to have an opinion on, this comes as being very timely. Is the stereotype of the 'Fat Dumb Yankee' fact or fiction?
In the hands of any other author, such a journey would be dull and cliched, always ending with the inevitable 'my perception's completely changed' wrap-up. But such is Stephen Fry's voice, intelligence and wit, that his writing leaps out at you, and you can almost hear his voice booming in your ear as he guides you from Maine to Hawaii in a black cab. His observations and opinions are wonderful; insightful yet humourous, thoughtful yet sharp. What's best is that it allows you to draw your own conclusions. All the evidence is laid out before the reader: it's up to you to make your own assumptions.

This is a book that could be recommended to practically anyone and everyone: it's big, full of lavish pictures and crammed with facts, and can be either dipped into or read cover to cover. It's a perfect companion piece to the upcoming TV series. Brilliant.

Maybe he should never have written nr 2...., 24 Jul 2008
I have been waiting for this book for years.... and now when I have read it, I hope it was never written. IT does not at all live up the the Pillars of earth. Neither does it compare to some of the other good books Ken Follet has written. 150 pages less and it might have been ok. I try to end all the books I start, but this was heavy. The story line was light, some of the "histories" within the story are totally out of scope (like nuns in french war). I read 6 books in my vacation. This was the worst.

Loved it!, 23 Jul 2008
I read Pillars of the Earth and thoroughly enjoyed it (apart from the lame plot line at the beginning with the builder meeting the exotic woman of the woods!). This one had a lot to live up to and I have to say, I prefer it to the first one. There is a little less 'technical' material about the building work that is going on and more about the characters and the goings on in their personal lives. There were so many sub-plots, I almost lost count, but this adds to the intrigue. I find this era in history fascinating and I think that's what I found so appealing about the story. I feel bereft now I have finished it and am desperately trying to find another book to replace the void.

Brilliant Sequel to Pillars of the Earth, 22 May 2008
Pillars of the Earth is my all time favorite novel, so although I usually wait for the paperback, when I saw the reduced price of the hardback at Amazon, I immediately ordered it. It was well worth it. However "Sequels are not equal". So I only give it four stars, although I admit, my expectations after Pillars of the Earth were extremely high. While brilliant, after Pillars of the Earth, I felt it lacked somewhat in originality. Also, I am not a prude, but I found the graphic sex as depicted not believable, considering the historical period and the morals of the time. Otherwise it appears to be well researched and historical accurate. In any case, a good read!

Ken Follet at his best, 20 Apr 2008
I wanted to wait for the paperback to come out, but I did not have the patience. Now I am glad I did not. If you liked The Pillars of the Earth you will love this one. It is very similar, but maybe even easier to read. All the characters are brand new, and even if there are some allusions to those that appeared in his celebrated novel, it is not necessary at all to have read it to enjoy this one.Even though it is a very long book, once you start you cannot stop.
It is a best-seller, yes;but a most enjoyable one.

Fabulous but formulaic, 19 Apr 2008
Pillars of the Earth remains one of the best loved books from my late teens, but Follett's more recent books have been increasingly weak, so I had mixed feelings about reading this one.

I'm very pleased to report that World Without End represents something of a return to form.

It contains most of the elements that made Pillars such a success - strong central characters, historical detail, suspense, injustice, outrage, romance and a central building project. In fact, it shares so many elements that had it been written by any other author then it would be condemned as a cheap knock-off. Fortunately, it's pretty well done.

There is a good feel for the historical period, some tremendous characters and a storyline that continues to evolve at a fast enough pace to justify the size of the tome!

Some parts do grate. The end feels slightly rushed (amazingly for such a long novel) and some parts are utterly contrived (Crècy) and I was frankly sick of Follett's habit of recapping the earlier sections of the book when explaining his characters' thought processes. He also tended to explain how his characters were trying to manipulate each other too clearly - it sometimes felt like the novel was aimed only at schoolkids.

Good but not great, at least in comparison to the original.

Okay historical fiction but not memorable, 23 Sep 2008
The strength of the book is the detailed description of the development of a cathedral and its impact on the prosperity of a town through a page-turning narrative and fictional characters. It is a fairly easy read on a difficult subject. It covers the civil war during the 12th century (Stephen and Maud) The downside is it is not a very memorable read. When my book club recommended it, I did not even remember I had aready done so! I certainly would not say don't read it - especially if you are doing GCSE architecture or medieval history. It does bring the period to life more than a textbook would and that can spur you on to learn more. However, it is not a great piece of historical fiction.

Badly Written Rubbish!, 23 Sep 2008
Really, really, poorly written book. Possibly the most boring I have ever read. Doesn't any one read this before it's published? Why didn't someone read it before and say, "Hold on, Ken, I've just read the first few chapters and I'm losing the will to live. Don't make me suffer any more."

Just because it's in print, it doesn't make it any good. This, is the Emperor's new trousers. And so many, so, so many have been fooled.


Entertaining read, 12 Sep 2008
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, there are a couple of aspects that for me rather spoil it. Firstly, was there any need for the sex scenes to be quite so graphic? and secondly, the writing style is a bit basic. I also have to agree with those reviewers who have given the book only one star - characterisation was poor and one-dimensional, there was some annoying repetition, and although I'm no expert on the period, there did seem to be some glaring historical inaccuracies. That said, this is a novel and not a textbook, and should be read with that in mind. I guess I would describe this book as an ideal, easy holiday read.

Over long and a bit of a let down, 05 Sep 2008
I was disappointed by this book. I totally agree with H. Morris's review. Everything is predictable, the story is very much like a soap opera (with the goodies and the baddies) and it drags on and on. Not gripping like I imagined it would be. I had to stop half way through as I felt I was wasting my time.

Overlong Unchallenging Medeival Soap Opera, 18 Aug 2008
At over 1000 pages this is a long book. There's no doubt the plot is gripping and the characters larger than life but the same can be said about Eastenders. When the book hits top form it is very good- particularly if you are interested in the social history of the period. Some of the set-pieces and plot twists are also good value but the book is let down by characters. They are too broadly painted. Everyone is either a goody or a Pantomime villain and the predictability of their actions does start to grate. Also the whole book seems to be a never ending succession of dramas, problems or stitch-ups facing the good guys each with their triumph duly coming a few pages later. Like a dodgy actor faking an accent in a film, the tone and authenticity of the characters also seems to waver. Some of the dialogue is completely unconvincing and at times you have to remind yourself you're in 12th not 21st century England. I'm no book snob but the prose was far to simple and if it wasn't for the gratuitous sex then it would be suitable for any Harry potter Fan. Basically if you're on holiday and are the type of person who would like to read 3 Dan Brown's in a row than you'll love this. If you Like your books to challenge you and you have a reading age of over 14 then there must be other books out there that do the same thing but better. ps. I still haven't got a clue what a nave or chancel is...

Ben Dinsdale, 23 Sep 2008
I am Gay and i think you'll find that this story still resonates but more like a just-polished cameo piece from a forgotten time. At the core of the book is the elaborate infatuation Jay Gatsby has for Daisy Fay Buchanan, a love story portrayed with both a languid pall and a fatalistic urgency. But the broader context of the setting and the irreconcilable nature of the American dream in the 1920's is what give the novel its true gravitas.

Much of this is eloquently articulated by Nick Carraway, Gatsby's modest Long Island neighbor who becomes his most trusted confidante. Nick is responsible for reuniting the lovers who both have come to different points in their lives five years after their aborted romance. Now a solitary figure in his luxurious mansion, Gatsby is a newly wealthy man who accumulated his fortunes through dubious means. Daisy, on the other hand, has always led a life of privilege and could not let love stand in the way of her comfortable existence. She married Tom Buchanan for that sole purpose. With Gatsby's ambition spurred by his love for Daisy, he rekindles his romance with Daisy, as Tom carries on carelessly with an auto mechanic's grasping wife. Nick himself gets caught up in the jet set trappings and has a relationship with Jordan Baker, a young golf pro.

These characters are inevitably led on a collision course that exposes the hypocrisy of the rich, the falsity of a love undeserving and the transience of individuals on this earth. The strength of Fitzgerald's treatment comes from the lyrical prose he provides to illuminate these themes. Not a word is wasted, and the author's economical handling of such a potentially complex plot is a technique I wish were more frequently replicated today. Most of all, I simply enjoy the book because it does not portend a greater significance eighty years later. It is a classic tale that provides vibrancy and texture to a bygone era. It is well worth re-reading, especially at such a bargain price.

What a read!, 22 Apr 2008
One of my resolutions for 2008 is to broaden my literary horizens. After studying English Lit to A-Level, my interest has fallen to the wayside. So on my quest to better myself through literature, I read "The Old Man and the Sea", which I just couldn't relate to. So imagine my relief when I started reading "The Great Gatsby". I'm so glad I perservered with classic books!

TGG is a great read. It's fast-paced from the outset, and gripping towards the end - I couldn't put it down. I even tried to convince family and friends to read it afterwards; but to no avail - so if I manage to get even ONE person to read it from writing this review, then good! Definitely recommended.

The great American novel?, 25 Mar 2008
Beautifully written, spare, dramatic and haunting - could this at last be the great American novel?

Good, but I don't see what all the fuss is about., 26 Dec 2007
A rather interesting novel and initially it wasn't all that apparent to me why people always linked the failure of the American dream and this story together. Superficially the story is that of love reawakening, Gatsby having initially been rejected by his childhood love for not having sufficient means acquires the means through various ill gotten ways and the lovers reunite despite the fact that she is not married to a boorish but very American man. Much is made that this novel is a startling exposition of the American dream and materialism, and it does this but to a lesser extent than most people make out. I didn't find the metaphors to be profound after reflection nor did I think the plot and language to be that great. That said it still was a fairly good book, an enjoyable read though a bit of anti-climax to what I had been expecting. The characters aren't particularly likeable and stay only briefly in memory, the story entertains but I feel that this book doesn't deserve all the acclaim it has got.

Few books grip your imagination as easily as this one, 27 Aug 2007
Oh, the casual ease with which this romance is written is staggering. It is not without its little faults as a whole, but then what book is?! The sad and whistful story of a nearly man is entirley subordinate to the smoothly poetic style it is written in and yet is complemented perfectly by it, and elevated by it. This is a really melancholy tale and if you're feeling a bit emotionally down for whatever reason, I'd even put off reading it until you're fighting fit again, as it really is affecting. Some may want a more concrete story than the author is clearly willing to give, but if you can live with (deliberate) vagueness of details and you love a good mystery and a romance then you cannot go wrong with this delightful story.

QI , 08 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed reading this book and found it more than "Quite Interesting". Unfortunately though, if you are an avid fan of the television series like I am it offers nothing new. Most, if not all, of the material is taken from the series.

Perfect bedtime reading, 13 Sep 2008
As has been mentioned before, this loose tie-in to the BBC QI programme feels rather like shuffling through a box of randomly shuffled Trivial Pursuit cards and peeking at the (often surprising) answers.

There is a bit more to it than that though. The subjects are grouped together into some approximation of commonality - the animal world, war, inventors, science, colours etc. and each topic does go into some depth about its subject. Often, and most fascinatingly, this includes exploring how myths have grown around the subject.

Many of the facts will surprise you (one of my eye-openers was that the Celtic ethnicity as we understand it today has only existed since 21st June 1792), whereas many will already be widely known (as one of the non-carnivorous persuasion myself, I sincerely hope this book knocks on the head once and for all the calumnious lie that Hitler was a vegetarian!).

The expectation as you turn the page eagerly awaiting the next topic is palpable! I savoured this book by reading just a half dozen or so facts at bedtime and have genuinely found myself adding some snippets of information from this book into my conversations.

Anything that makes us all a tiny bit less generally ignorant can't be bad!


Great fun for trivia nerds, 05 Sep 2008
This is a very entertaining book that you can pick up and browse for short periods. It helps you to challenge all the things that you assume you know. It delights in debunking popular misconceptions - for example that glass is really a very slow-moving liquid. Glass is a solid. At times it is a little precious and pedantic. I am sure that some of its claims can be challenged. However, it remains one of my favourite bedside books. Recommended.

fun but tedious at times, 31 Jul 2008
This is a fun book to pick up and put down at leisure but it loses something for not being delivered by the dry tones of Stephen Fry. If you are an avid watcher of the series you will have heard most of these entries before but there are still some gems among them. Some of the explanations do go on and there seems to be a fascintaion with space that just doesn't excite me but there were a few chuckles along the way. At the end there is a disclaimer inviting readers to send in alternative answers or explanations which does dilute the whole thing a bit. Good for picking up trivia to delight your mates at the pub.

Not entirely fact..., 26 Jun 2008
It's a good book, easy to read, informative and amusing. In fact, it's so informative that one is tempted to learn parts of it as ammunition for showing off how impressively clever you are to your friends; dismissing common knowledge as fiction is a satisfying thing to do. That is, until you come across something that the book claims to be true which you know in fact to be false (or more likely, not the entire truth). And by "know" I mean parts that cross over with my degree and which I have studied actual research journals on. Once I realised that the book takes liberties for the sake of sounding a bit impressive and sensational, I lost faith in pretty much everything else it claimed to be true. I'm sure alot of it is genuine, but how do you know which bits? And if it's not necessarily true, where's the fun in knowing it?

Interesting. Amusing. Ideal for dipping into., 12 Oct 2008
This book is simply a collection of amusing quotations from the famous - and the not so famous. It doesn't really appear to have anything more to do with QI than having the series name on the cover. It's a great book for dipping into but hardly something you'll want to tirelessly read from cover to cover. Ideal as a bathroom reader or to amuse others with.

And I quote..., 10 Oct 2008
Ever stumbled a cross a quote or saying that rang so true, you've decided to write it down and tuck in a pocket for future reference? Well, this book's full of them.
Quotes are powerful things. They can make us happy, sad, laugh, cry, can comfort us, annoy us...the list goes on. As such, this book is a rollercoaster of opinions and witticisms, some of which are infamous, some of which are lesser known.
It's difficult to review such a book because...well...it's a bit of a nothingness. It is, quite simply, a collection of quotes from famous people, A-Z by subject. That's it. The overall product feels rushed, too - on my first thumb through, I noticed 3 spelling errors! - and I don't appreciate having the QI brand slapped on it. A foreword by Fry it may have, but it has very little to do with the show.
That said, is does what it's meant to do, and it does it well - it's a big volume, the kind that warrants dipping into, despite perhaps not seeming to be great value at first, I can imagine this book lasting years, always worth opening up to find a quote to inspire (or infuriate) you.

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

Stephen goes Stateside, 01 Oct 2008
"Oh no, not ANOTHER travel book, written by some jumped-up celebrity hoofing it around some unheard of corner of the world, almost gloating at me, saying 'Look where I am, you're not here, ha ha'...oh, hang on! Stephen Fry, is it? I quite like him. And he's in America? Hmmm...I'm intrigued."
And that's how this book made it into my hands. I don't usually go for books like these, but because it's Stephen Fry, I took the plunge. Am I ever glad I did.
Stephen Fry travels across USA's 50 states on a mission: to discover the real America. As a country everyone seems to have an opinion on, this comes as being very timely. Is the stereotype of the 'Fat Dumb Yankee' fact or fiction?
In the hands of any other author, such a journey would be dull and cliched, always ending with the inevitable 'my perception's completely changed' wrap-up. But such is Stephen Fry's voice, intelligence and wit, that his writing leaps out at you, and you can almost hear his voice booming in your ear as he guides you from Maine to Hawaii in a black cab. His observations and opinions are wonderful; insightful yet humourous, thoughtful yet sharp. What's best is that it allows you to draw your own conclusions. All the evidence is laid out before the reader: it's up to you to make your own assumptions.

This is a book that could be recommended to practically anyone and everyone: it's big, full of lavish pictures and crammed with facts, and can be either dipped into or read cover to cover. It's a perfect companion piece to the upcoming TV series. Brilliant.

Maybe he should never have written nr 2...., 24 Jul 2008
I have been waiting for this book for years.... and now when I have read it, I hope it was never written. IT does not at all live up the the Pillars of earth. Neither does it compare to some of the other good books Ken Follet has written. 150 pages less and it might have been ok. I try to end all the books I start, but this was heavy. The story line was light, some of the "histories" within the story are totally out of scope (like nuns in french war). I read 6 books in my vacation. This was the worst.

Loved it!, 23 Jul 2008
I read Pillars of the Earth and thoroughly enjoyed it (apart from the lame plot line at the beginning with the builder meeting the exotic woman of the woods!). This one had a lot to live up to and I have to say, I prefer it to the first one. There is a little less 'technical' material about the building work that is going on and more about the characters and the goings on in their personal lives. There were so many sub-plots, I almost lost count, but this adds to the intrigue. I find this era in history fascinating and I think that's what I found so appealing about the story. I feel bereft now I have finished it and am desperately trying to find another book to replace the void.

Brilliant Sequel to Pillars of the Earth, 22 May 2008
Pillars of the Earth is my all time favorite novel, so although I usually wait for the paperback, when I saw the reduced price of the hardback at Amazon, I immediately ordered it. It was well worth it. However "Sequels are not equal". So I only give it four stars, although I admit, my expectations after Pillars of the Earth were extremely high. While brilliant, after Pillars of the Earth, I felt it lacked somewhat in originality. Also, I am not a prude, but I found the graphic sex as depicted not believable, considering the historical period and the morals of the time. Otherwise it appears to be well researched and historical accurate. In any case, a good read!

Ken Follet at his best, 20 Apr 2008
I wanted to wait for the paperback to come out, but I did not have the patience. Now I am glad I did not. If you liked The Pillars of the Earth you will love this one. It is very similar, but maybe even easier to read. All the characters are brand new, and even if there are some allusions to those that appeared in his celebrated novel, it is not necessary at all to have read it to enjoy this one.Even though it is a very long book, once you start you cannot stop.
It is a best-seller, yes;but a most enjoyable one.

Fabulous but formulaic, 19 Apr 2008
Pillars of the Earth remains one of the best loved books from my late teens, but Follett's more recent books have been increasingly weak, so I had mixed feelings about reading this one.

I'm very pleased to report that World Without End represents something of a return to form.

It contains most of the elements that made Pillars such a success - strong central characters, historical detail, suspense, injustice, outrage, romance and a central building project. In fact, it shares so many elements that had it been written by any other author then it would be condemned as a cheap knock-off. Fortunately, it's pretty well done.

There is a good feel for the historical period, some tremendous characters and a storyline that continues to evolve at a fast enough pace to justify the size of the tome!

Some parts do grate. The end feels slightly rushed (amazingly for such a long novel) and some parts are utterly contrived (Crècy) and I was frankly sick of Follett's habit of recapping the earlier sections of the book when explaining his characters' thought processes. He also tended to explain how his characters were trying to manipulate each other too clearly - it sometimes felt like the novel was aimed only at schoolkids.

Good but not great, at least in comparison to the original.

Okay historical fiction but not memorable, 23 Sep 2008
The strength of the book is the detailed description of the development of a cathedral and its impact on the prosperity of a town through a page-turning narrative and fictional characters. It is a fairly easy read on a difficult subject. It covers the civil war during the 12th century (Stephen and Maud) The downside is it is not a very memorable read. When my book club recommended it, I did not even remember I had aready done so! I certainly would not say don't read it - especially if you are doing GCSE architecture or medieval history. It does bring the period to life more than a textbook would and that can spur you on to learn more. However, it is not a great piece of historical fiction.

Badly Written Rubbish!, 23 Sep 2008
Really, really, poorly written book. Possibly the most boring I have ever read. Doesn't any one read this before it's published? Why didn't someone read it before and say, "Hold on, Ken, I've just read the first few chapters and I'm losing the will to live. Don't make me suffer any more."

Just because it's in print, it doesn't make it any good. This, is the Emperor's new trousers. And so many, so, so many have been fooled.


Entertaining read, 12 Sep 2008
Although I enjoyed this book a lot, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, there are a couple of aspects that for me rather spoil it. Firstly, was there any need for the sex scenes to be quite so graphic? and secondly, the writing style is a bit basic. I also have to agree with those reviewers who have given the book only one star - characterisation was poor and one-dimensional, there was some annoying repetition, and although I'm no expert on the period, there did seem to be some glaring historical inaccuracies. That said, this is a novel and not a textbook, and should be read with that in mind. I guess I would describe this book as an ideal, easy holiday read.

Over long and a bit of a let down, 05 Sep 2008
I was disappointed by this book. I totally agree with H. Morris's review. Everything is predictable, the story is very much like a soap opera (with the goodies and the baddies) and it drags on and on. Not gripping like I imagined it would be. I had to stop half way through as I felt I was wasting my time.

Overlong Unchallenging Medeival Soap Opera, 18 Aug 2008
At over 1000 pages this is a long book. There's no doubt the plot is gripping and the characters larger than life but the same can be said about Eastenders. When the book hits top form it is very good- particularly if you are interested in the social history of the period. Some of the set-pieces and plot twists are also good value but the book is let down by characters. They are too broadly painted. Everyone is either a goody or a Pantomime villain and the predictability of their actions does start to grate. Also the whole book seems to be a never ending succession of dramas, problems or stitch-ups facing the good guys each with their triumph duly coming a few pages later. Like a dodgy actor faking an accent in a film, the tone and authenticity of the characters also seems to waver. Some of the dialogue is completely unconvincing and at times you have to remind yourself you're in 12th not 21st century England. I'm no book snob but the prose was far to simple and if it wasn't for the gratuitous sex then it would be suitable for any Harry potter Fan. Basically if you're on holiday and are the type of person who would like to read 3 Dan Brown's in a row than you'll love this. If you Like your books to challenge you and you have a reading age of over 14 then there must be other books out there that do the same thing but better. ps. I still haven't got a clue what a nave or chancel is...

Ben Dinsdale, 23 Sep 2008
I am Gay and i think you'll find that this story still resonates but more like a just-polished cameo piece from a forgotten time. At the core of the book is the elaborate infatuation Jay Gatsby has for Daisy Fay Buchanan, a love story portrayed with both a languid pall and a fatalistic urgency. But the broader context of the setting and the irreconcilable nature of the American dream in the 1920's is what give the novel its true gravitas.

Much of this is eloquently articulated by Nick Carraway, Gatsby's modest Long Island neighbor who becomes his most trusted confidante. Nick is responsible for reuniting the lovers who both have come to different points in their lives five years after their aborted romance. Now a solitary figure in his luxurious mansion, Gatsby is a newly wealthy man who accumulated his fortunes through dubious means. Daisy, on the other hand, has always led a life of privilege and could not let love stand in the way of her comfortable existence. She married Tom Buchanan for that sole purpose. With Gatsby's ambition spurred by his love for Daisy, he rekindles his romance with Daisy, as Tom carries on carelessly with an auto mechanic's grasping wife. Nick himself gets caught up in the jet set trappings and has a relationship with Jordan Baker, a young golf pro.

These characters are inevitably led on a collision course that exposes the hypocrisy of the rich, the falsity of a love undeserving and the transience of individuals on this earth. The strength of Fitzgerald's treatment comes from the lyrical prose he provides to illuminate these themes. Not a word is wasted, and the author's economical handling of such a potentially complex plot is a technique I wish were more frequently replicated today. Most of all, I simply enjoy the book because it does not portend a greater significance eighty years later. It is a classic tale that provides vibrancy and texture to a bygone era. It is well worth re-reading, especially at such a bargain price.

What a read!, 22 Apr 2008
One of my resolutions for 2008 is to broaden my literary horizens. After studying English Lit to A-Level, my interest has fallen to the wayside. So on my quest to better myself through literature, I read "The Old Man and the Sea", which I just couldn't relate to. So imagine my relief when I started reading "The Great Gatsby". I'm so glad I perservered with classic books!

TGG is a great read. It's fast-paced from the outset, and gripping towards the end - I couldn't put it down. I even tried to convince family and friends to read it afterwards; but to no avail - so if I manage to get even ONE person to read it from writing this review, then good! Definitely recommended.

The great American novel?, 25 Mar 2008
Beautifully written, spare, dramatic and haunting - could this at last be the great American novel?

Good, but I don't see what all the fuss is about., 26 Dec 2007
A rather interesting novel and initially it wasn't all that apparent to me why people always linked the failure of the American dream and this story together. Superficially the story is that of love reawakening, Gatsby having initially been rejected by his childhood love for not having sufficient means acquires the means through various ill gotten ways and the lovers reunite despite the fact that she is not married to a boorish but very American man. Much is made that this novel is a startling exposition of the American dream and materialism, and it does this but to a lesser extent than most people make out. I didn't find the metaphors to be profound after reflection nor did I think the plot and language to be that great. That said it still was a fairly good book, an enjoyable read though a bit of anti-climax to what I had been expecting. The characters aren't particularly likeable and stay only briefly in memory, the story entertains but I feel that this book doesn't deserve all the acclaim it has got.

Few books grip your imagination as easily as this one, 27 Aug 2007
Oh, the casual ease with which this romance is written is staggering. It is not without its little faults as a whole, but then what book is?! The sad and whistful story of a nearly man is entirley subordinate to the smoothly poetic style it is written in and yet is complemented perfectly by it, and elevated by it. This is a really melancholy tale and if you're feeling a bit emotionally down for whatever reason, I'd even put off reading it until you're fighting fit again, as it really is affecting. Some may want a more concrete story than the author is clearly willing to give, but if you can live with (deliberate) vagueness of details and you love a good mystery and a romance then you cannot go wrong with this delightful story.

QI , 08 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed reading this book and found it more than "Quite Interesting". Unfortunately though, if you are an avid fan of the television series like I am it offers nothing new. Most, if not all, of the material is taken from the series.

Perfect bedtime reading, 13 Sep 2008
As has been mentioned before, this loose tie-in to the BBC QI programme feels rather like shuffling through a box of randomly shuffled Trivial Pursuit cards and peeking at the (often surprising) answers.

There is a bit more to it than that though. The subjects are grouped together into some approximation of commonality - the animal world, war, inventors, science, colours etc. and each topic does go into some depth about its subject. Often, and most fascinatingly, this includes exploring how myths have grown around the subject.

Many of the facts will surprise you (one of my eye-openers was that the Celtic ethnicity as we understand it today has only existed since 21st June 1792), whereas many will already be widely known (as one of the non-carnivorous persuasion myself, I sincerely hope this book knocks on the head once and for all the calumnious lie that Hitler was a vegetarian!).

The expectation as you turn the page eagerly awaiting the next topic is palpable! I savoured this book by reading just a half dozen or so facts at bedtime and have genuinely found myself adding some snippets of information from this book into my conversations.

Anything that makes us all a tiny bit less generally ignorant can't be bad!


Great fun for trivia nerds, 05 Sep 2008
This is a very entertaining book that you can pick up and browse for short periods. It helps you to challenge all the things that you assume you know. It delights in debunking popular misconceptions - for example that glass is really a very slow-moving liquid. Glass is a solid. At times it is a little precious and pedantic. I am sure that some of its claims can be challenged. However, it remains one of my favourite bedside books. Recommended.

fun but tedious at times, 31 Jul 2008
This is a fun book to pick up and put down at leisure but it loses something for not being delivered by the dry tone