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The White Tiger
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 Product Description
Winning the Man Booker prize is something that most authors dream of, although -- ironically -- the reputation of the prize itself was under siege a few years ago. Books that won the award were acquiring a reputation of being difficult and inaccessible, but those days appear to be over -- and unarguable proof may be found in the 2008 winner, The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga. Apart from its considerable literary merit, the novel is the most compelling of pageturners (in the old-fashioned sense of that phrase) and offers a picture of modern India that is as evocative as it is unflattering. The protagonist, too, is drawn in the most masterly of fashion. Balram Halwai, the eponymous `white tiger', is a diminutive, overweight ex-teashop worker who now earns his living as a chauffeur. But this is only one side of his protean personality; he deals in confidence scams, over-ambitious business promotions (built on the shakiest of foundations) and enjoys approaching life with a philosophical turn of mind. But is Balram also a murderer? We learn the answer as we devour these 500 odd pages. Born into an impoverished family, Balram is removed from school by his parents in order to earn money in a thankless job: shop employee. He is forced into banal, mind-numbing work. But Balram dreams of escaping -- and a chance arises when a well-heeled village landlord takes him on as a chauffeur for his son (although the duties involve transporting the latter's wife and two Pomeranian dogs). From the rich new perspective offered to him in this more interesting job, Balram discovers New Delhi, and a vision of the city changes his life forever. His learning curve is very steep, and he quickly comes to believe that the way to the top is by the most expedient means. And if that involves committing the odd crime of violence, he persuades himself that this is what successful people must do. The story of the amoral protagonist at the centre of this fascinating narrative is, of course, what keeps the reader comprehensively gripped, but perhaps the real achievement of the book is in its picture of two Indias: the bleak, soul-destroying poverty of village life and the glittering prizes to be found in the big city. The book cleverly avoids fulfilling any of the expectations a potential reader might have -- except that of instructing and entertaining. The White Tiger will have many readers anxious to see what Adiga will do next. --Barry Forshaw
Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
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Azincourt
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Bernard Cornwell;
2008-10-01;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £8.10
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Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
Odd one out, 20 Nov 2008
I have read every one of Bernard Cornwells Books,had this book on pre order and looked forward so much to the books publication. I can only say, I was so dissapionted, I couldn't wait to get to the end and put it down.
400 pages, only two battles and it really didn't hold my interest at all, I can't express my dissapointment enough.
I must be the odd one out.
Great narrative...dreadfull dialogue..., 20 Nov 2008
This pains me..... Anyone who has met Bernard Cornwell at a book signing would I am sure agree with me when I say that he is a smashing bloke. I have many of his novels personaly signed and always buy his latest hardback.
Cornwell's 'hero' Hook is like so many other Cornwell hereos, so like Sharpe in fact and also Hookton.The dialogue between characters is repetative and boring and there are only so many ways you can insult the French!
Cornwell's discriptive narrative is always good though, and he paints great landscapes of blood, gore and battle with his usual sense of flair.
Most of the novels action does not take place at Agincourt but at Harfleur and the march towards the field of battle.
This was an effort to get through, mainly because of the one dimensional characters. His slowest and dullest book since another 'stand alone' novel, 'Stonehenge'
Cornwell's historical notes at the end of the book were of more interest and more insightful than the novel itself.
And now to really upset him.... BRING BACK STARBUCK!!!
Solid, but lacks something, 17 Nov 2008
Or Agincourt as it was when I was at school!
The Battle of Agincourt was a King Henry V led English victory against a larger French army during the Hundred Years' War (1415). In addition to a great deal of luck (ground conditions, poor French tactics) this was a battle where the power of the English archer (okay, a few Welsh as well) reigned supreme.
In typical Cornwall style he gives us a character (Nicholas Hook an English archer) against which to tell the tale and politics of the events leading up to, and the battle itself.
Cornwall's skill is in the blend of character, action and history. The Sharpe novels are obviously the perfect mix, and perhaps the blend was wrong with the Starbuck novels set in the US Civil War. In this novel it `almost' works but not quite. Hook is a talented fighter who hears voices (a Saint giving him advice) but his character felt lacking. On the march to Azincourt he suffers a personal tragedy, yet seems over it by morning!
The historical elements are, as always, excellent but the rest of this novel lacks that perfect blend that we have come to expect.
Disapointment, 14 Nov 2008
As a big fan of Bernard Cornwell I was disapointed with this latest work. The characters were dusted off versions from his 'Grail' series, the plotline unimaginative and unconvincing. To make it work It was necessary for the hero to start hearing the voices of saints, who would tell him what to do - hardly the convincing narrative we're used to. The only saving grace was the descriptions of the siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt itself. Well researched and excitingly told. Did Mr Cornewell succumb to the siren song of the Christmas Market and rush this one out? It certainly feels like it.
not yet available in Nice, 12 Nov 2008
WHY is the book called AZINCOURT? The famous battle was fought at AGINCOURT but the French, having lost the battle, changed the name of the village to AZINCOURT. The U.S. edition of this book reverts to the original name. One-up to the Yanks!
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The Gift
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £5.84
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Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
Odd one out, 20 Nov 2008
I have read every one of Bernard Cornwells Books,had this book on pre order and looked forward so much to the books publication. I can only say, I was so dissapionted, I couldn't wait to get to the end and put it down.
400 pages, only two battles and it really didn't hold my interest at all, I can't express my dissapointment enough.
I must be the odd one out.
Great narrative...dreadfull dialogue..., 20 Nov 2008
This pains me..... Anyone who has met Bernard Cornwell at a book signing would I am sure agree with me when I say that he is a smashing bloke. I have many of his novels personaly signed and always buy his latest hardback.
Cornwell's 'hero' Hook is like so many other Cornwell hereos, so like Sharpe in fact and also Hookton.The dialogue between characters is repetative and boring and there are only so many ways you can insult the French!
Cornwell's discriptive narrative is always good though, and he paints great landscapes of blood, gore and battle with his usual sense of flair.
Most of the novels action does not take place at Agincourt but at Harfleur and the march towards the field of battle.
This was an effort to get through, mainly because of the one dimensional characters. His slowest and dullest book since another 'stand alone' novel, 'Stonehenge'
Cornwell's historical notes at the end of the book were of more interest and more insightful than the novel itself.
And now to really upset him.... BRING BACK STARBUCK!!!
Solid, but lacks something, 17 Nov 2008
Or Agincourt as it was when I was at school!
The Battle of Agincourt was a King Henry V led English victory against a larger French army during the Hundred Years' War (1415). In addition to a great deal of luck (ground conditions, poor French tactics) this was a battle where the power of the English archer (okay, a few Welsh as well) reigned supreme.
In typical Cornwall style he gives us a character (Nicholas Hook an English archer) against which to tell the tale and politics of the events leading up to, and the battle itself.
Cornwall's skill is in the blend of character, action and history. The Sharpe novels are obviously the perfect mix, and perhaps the blend was wrong with the Starbuck novels set in the US Civil War. In this novel it `almost' works but not quite. Hook is a talented fighter who hears voices (a Saint giving him advice) but his character felt lacking. On the march to Azincourt he suffers a personal tragedy, yet seems over it by morning!
The historical elements are, as always, excellent but the rest of this novel lacks that perfect blend that we have come to expect.
Disapointment, 14 Nov 2008
As a big fan of Bernard Cornwell I was disapointed with this latest work. The characters were dusted off versions from his 'Grail' series, the plotline unimaginative and unconvincing. To make it work It was necessary for the hero to start hearing the voices of saints, who would tell him what to do - hardly the convincing narrative we're used to. The only saving grace was the descriptions of the siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt itself. Well researched and excitingly told. Did Mr Cornewell succumb to the siren song of the Christmas Market and rush this one out? It certainly feels like it.
not yet available in Nice, 12 Nov 2008
WHY is the book called AZINCOURT? The famous battle was fought at AGINCOURT but the French, having lost the battle, changed the name of the village to AZINCOURT. The U.S. edition of this book reverts to the original name. One-up to the Yanks!
Life, love and heartstrings, 19 Nov 2008
Having just seen parts of her father's biography on RTE (Ireland's National TV station) and it noting that he was quite the absent father, I have to wonder how much of this is wishful thinking on the part of Cecelia Ahern.
It's a story about a boy who throws a semi-frozen turkey through a window who gets told a story about another man. A workaholic who learns lessons about the important things in life and who realises that life is now not tomorrow.
I can see this one splitting it's audience. It's unsubtle in it's message and pretty obvious in it's heart-string tugging. A little too obvious for my tastes, I'm sure other people's mileage may vary.
The packagaing is cute, the ribbon isn't a permanent part of the cover though and as it's usually shrink wrapped the lack of cover details makes it hard to decide what it's all about.
Great Read, 18 Nov 2008
A great story, I couldn`t put it down. I read it over a couple of days and couldn`t wait to read what happened next. Just when you think you`ve guessed the next part of the story, a twist happens. I read p.s. I love you before this and while I also think p.s. I love you is great this is even better again. I think they should make a film out of this too.
Wish I could be in two places at once!, 14 Nov 2008
Cecelia Ahern has done it again and wrote another brill book! I brought this book at the airport and could'nt resist unwrapping the red ribbon off it immediately and wow what an amazing read! I could'nt put the book down and within a few days had devoured it!!
Most of us can relate to the character in the book, needing to be in two places at the same time and with a xmas theme the book is enchanting taking you into a magical place while reading it.
Best Cecelia Ahern book yet! I await the next one....
Another great read by Cecelia, 13 Nov 2008
I love Cecelia Ahern and I am always so excited when another one of her books is released. She is so young but writes so wisely. I watched the video of her interview on Amazon and she seems like a really nice person. I thought that the book itself was a really great read. I read it in 2 days (around work!) and loved it. I finally finished it in the bath last night and the water went cold because I wanted to finish my book!
The story is a story within a story. The first story is about a kid who throws a frozen turkey through his Dad's living room window (it is Christmas time) and the second story is a story told by a policeman to the kid with the frozen turkey. It sounds confusing but it really isn't.
Lou is a busy working man. He never has time for anything and always needs to be in 2 places at the same time. Enter Gabe. Gabe is a homeless guy that Lou gives a job to. Gabe is so efficient and he seems to be everywhere in Lou's life. Gabe offers Lou some tablets for a headache that essentially means that he can be in 2 places at the same time. His dream come true!
The story follows Lou through Christmas time as he learns a few valuable lessons. I think they are lessons that many people could do with learning. The story was totally unbelievable but the message wasn't.
Another great read by Cecelia and the story will stay with you for a while after you stop reading.....
Whimsical and just brillaint, 07 Nov 2008
After reading all other Cecelia books and not finding them immature at all, but rather whimsical and fantasical (after all it's her world and she can do what she like's with it!), I really enjoyed this book. Devoured it within a day. I loved how it was Christmassy the whole way through, from naming the chapters, to the christmas decorations to the fact it had a moral chapter at the end. I find it impossible to choose a favourite book of Cecelia's but i will say she manages to create a temporary best friend for me in every book. Brilliant.
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The Book Thief
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £3.69
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Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
Odd one out, 20 Nov 2008
I have read every one of Bernard Cornwells Books,had this book on pre order and looked forward so much to the books publication. I can only say, I was so dissapionted, I couldn't wait to get to the end and put it down.
400 pages, only two battles and it really didn't hold my interest at all, I can't express my dissapointment enough.
I must be the odd one out.
Great narrative...dreadfull dialogue..., 20 Nov 2008
This pains me..... Anyone who has met Bernard Cornwell at a book signing would I am sure agree with me when I say that he is a smashing bloke. I have many of his novels personaly signed and always buy his latest hardback.
Cornwell's 'hero' Hook is like so many other Cornwell hereos, so like Sharpe in fact and also Hookton.The dialogue between characters is repetative and boring and there are only so many ways you can insult the French!
Cornwell's discriptive narrative is always good though, and he paints great landscapes of blood, gore and battle with his usual sense of flair.
Most of the novels action does not take place at Agincourt but at Harfleur and the march towards the field of battle.
This was an effort to get through, mainly because of the one dimensional characters. His slowest and dullest book since another 'stand alone' novel, 'Stonehenge'
Cornwell's historical notes at the end of the book were of more interest and more insightful than the novel itself.
And now to really upset him.... BRING BACK STARBUCK!!!
Solid, but lacks something, 17 Nov 2008
Or Agincourt as it was when I was at school!
The Battle of Agincourt was a King Henry V led English victory against a larger French army during the Hundred Years' War (1415). In addition to a great deal of luck (ground conditions, poor French tactics) this was a battle where the power of the English archer (okay, a few Welsh as well) reigned supreme.
In typical Cornwall style he gives us a character (Nicholas Hook an English archer) against which to tell the tale and politics of the events leading up to, and the battle itself.
Cornwall's skill is in the blend of character, action and history. The Sharpe novels are obviously the perfect mix, and perhaps the blend was wrong with the Starbuck novels set in the US Civil War. In this novel it `almost' works but not quite. Hook is a talented fighter who hears voices (a Saint giving him advice) but his character felt lacking. On the march to Azincourt he suffers a personal tragedy, yet seems over it by morning!
The historical elements are, as always, excellent but the rest of this novel lacks that perfect blend that we have come to expect.
Disapointment, 14 Nov 2008
As a big fan of Bernard Cornwell I was disapointed with this latest work. The characters were dusted off versions from his 'Grail' series, the plotline unimaginative and unconvincing. To make it work It was necessary for the hero to start hearing the voices of saints, who would tell him what to do - hardly the convincing narrative we're used to. The only saving grace was the descriptions of the siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt itself. Well researched and excitingly told. Did Mr Cornewell succumb to the siren song of the Christmas Market and rush this one out? It certainly feels like it.
not yet available in Nice, 12 Nov 2008
WHY is the book called AZINCOURT? The famous battle was fought at AGINCOURT but the French, having lost the battle, changed the name of the village to AZINCOURT. The U.S. edition of this book reverts to the original name. One-up to the Yanks!
Life, love and heartstrings, 19 Nov 2008
Having just seen parts of her father's biography on RTE (Ireland's National TV station) and it noting that he was quite the absent father, I have to wonder how much of this is wishful thinking on the part of Cecelia Ahern.
It's a story about a boy who throws a semi-frozen turkey through a window who gets told a story about another man. A workaholic who learns lessons about the important things in life and who realises that life is now not tomorrow.
I can see this one splitting it's audience. It's unsubtle in it's message and pretty obvious in it's heart-string tugging. A little too obvious for my tastes, I'm sure other people's mileage may vary.
The packagaing is cute, the ribbon isn't a permanent part of the cover though and as it's usually shrink wrapped the lack of cover details makes it hard to decide what it's all about.
Great Read, 18 Nov 2008
A great story, I couldn`t put it down. I read it over a couple of days and couldn`t wait to read what happened next. Just when you think you`ve guessed the next part of the story, a twist happens. I read p.s. I love you before this and while I also think p.s. I love you is great this is even better again. I think they should make a film out of this too.
Wish I could be in two places at once!, 14 Nov 2008
Cecelia Ahern has done it again and wrote another brill book! I brought this book at the airport and could'nt resist unwrapping the red ribbon off it immediately and wow what an amazing read! I could'nt put the book down and within a few days had devoured it!!
Most of us can relate to the character in the book, needing to be in two places at the same time and with a xmas theme the book is enchanting taking you into a magical place while reading it.
Best Cecelia Ahern book yet! I await the next one....
Another great read by Cecelia, 13 Nov 2008
I love Cecelia Ahern and I am always so excited when another one of her books is released. She is so young but writes so wisely. I watched the video of her interview on Amazon and she seems like a really nice person. I thought that the book itself was a really great read. I read it in 2 days (around work!) and loved it. I finally finished it in the bath last night and the water went cold because I wanted to finish my book!
The story is a story within a story. The first story is about a kid who throws a frozen turkey through his Dad's living room window (it is Christmas time) and the second story is a story told by a policeman to the kid with the frozen turkey. It sounds confusing but it really isn't.
Lou is a busy working man. He never has time for anything and always needs to be in 2 places at the same time. Enter Gabe. Gabe is a homeless guy that Lou gives a job to. Gabe is so efficient and he seems to be everywhere in Lou's life. Gabe offers Lou some tablets for a headache that essentially means that he can be in 2 places at the same time. His dream come true!
The story follows Lou through Christmas time as he learns a few valuable lessons. I think they are lessons that many people could do with learning. The story was totally unbelievable but the message wasn't.
Another great read by Cecelia and the story will stay with you for a while after you stop reading.....
Whimsical and just brillaint, 07 Nov 2008
After reading all other Cecelia books and not finding them immature at all, but rather whimsical and fantasical (after all it's her world and she can do what she like's with it!), I really enjoyed this book. Devoured it within a day. I loved how it was Christmassy the whole way through, from naming the chapters, to the christmas decorations to the fact it had a moral chapter at the end. I find it impossible to choose a favourite book of Cecelia's but i will say she manages to create a temporary best friend for me in every book. Brilliant.
A truly beautiful book, 19 Nov 2008
I can't recommend this book highly enough.
It's true that its very setting fills it with sadness but its originality, delicacy, poetry and certainly humour make it a very special book indeed.
I's one of those books that risks making you unpopular as you try desperately to convince everyone you know to read it.
What a gifted writer, 12 Nov 2008
This book was accidently left on a bus and I wasn't even one quarter through. What did I do? I re-purchased it of course, also thanks to the fact that I purchased it both times with a great discount price, how could I not have? I would have missed out the opportunity to read such a good though tragic story. The author makes the story somewhat humorous in some parts to take off the horrific and sorrowful edge of what really happened in that time of history. It was a lovely read and the description of each character made you feel like you were right there viewing their actions. It was sad in many parts, heartwarming in others and you grew to like all the protagonists. I also liked the fact that many German words were thrown in and explained or simply translated, making an even more realistic Nazi Germany era impact on the reader. The author is highly talented and very clever.
Incredible - quite possibly the best book ever, 12 Nov 2008
I finished this book last night, rather poignantly on Armistice Day. I was blown away. I had no idea that this was a book for "young adults" but I certainly recommend that everyone of any age reads it. This novel is beautifully written and I found I was carrying the story around with me and thinking about the lives of these characters even when I wasn't actually reading the book. I read most of it on the train and decided to finish it off at home last night - good job I did too because I was literally sobbing my heart out by the end. I don't mean my eyes welled up with tears and I sniffed a little, I mean I was bawling my eyes out. I think quite simply that this is the best book I have ever read - the characters become real and even though you are warned at the very beginning that there will be losses and tragedy, it still hits you like you didn't see it coming. I was rooting for Liesel and her friends and family. I was even moved by the Narrator, Death, who in one sense claims he is only doing his job (like so many who worked in the Nazi Regime)but who is still touched by the the sparks of light from the human spirit in a world that is awash with darkness. I have never cried so much over a story, nor been so hopeful and uplifted at the same time. I should also mention, by no means as an afterthought, that it is also very very funny, with extra points going to Rosa Hubermann, Liesel's Mama. Please read this story and let it stay with you - discover it for yourself - you won't regret a moment spent on reading it.
Delicately written, thoughtful and meaningful., 10 Nov 2008
I won't go in to the details of this book because I don't want to ruin any of it for you, the story is very unique and told from an unusual perspective.
I just loved this! It's very rare that I keep hold of a book, I usually pass it to a friend to read but I found myself buying additional copies for my friends so that they could share the beauty of it.
This book is just outstanding! I wouldn't usually read this type of book, I thought it was going to be heart-wrenching and gritty which it actually was, but it was done in such a delicate manner that I just enjoyed reading it so much.
I was quite sorry I read it so quickly, I would have liked to keep the joy of reading it for longer.
Buy it, read it, keep it.
Didn't Quite Steal my Heart, 05 Nov 2008
An interesting ploy to have DEATH narrate this quaint tale of a young German girl stumbling upon and stealing various books whilst World War 2 and the holocaust is buzzing all around her.
For me it didn't quite hit home as a GREAT, but nonetheless it has a certain charm - and worth a run if you've got the time; at 560 pages you're going to need it as the events are fairly pedestrian.
Oh, give it a go...then tell me I'm wrong!
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Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
Odd one out, 20 Nov 2008
I have read every one of Bernard Cornwells Books,had this book on pre order and looked forward so much to the books publication. I can only say, I was so dissapionted, I couldn't wait to get to the end and put it down.
400 pages, only two battles and it really didn't hold my interest at all, I can't express my dissapointment enough.
I must be the odd one out.
Great narrative...dreadfull dialogue..., 20 Nov 2008
This pains me..... Anyone who has met Bernard Cornwell at a book signing would I am sure agree with me when I say that he is a smashing bloke. I have many of his novels personaly signed and always buy his latest hardback.
Cornwell's 'hero' Hook is like so many other Cornwell hereos, so like Sharpe in fact and also Hookton.The dialogue between characters is repetative and boring and there are only so many ways you can insult the French!
Cornwell's discriptive narrative is always good though, and he paints great landscapes of blood, gore and battle with his usual sense of flair.
Most of the novels action does not take place at Agincourt but at Harfleur and the march towards the field of battle.
This was an effort to get through, mainly because of the one dimensional characters. His slowest and dullest book since another 'stand alone' novel, 'Stonehenge'
Cornwell's historical notes at the end of the book were of more interest and more insightful than the novel itself.
And now to really upset him.... BRING BACK STARBUCK!!!
Solid, but lacks something, 17 Nov 2008
Or Agincourt as it was when I was at school!
The Battle of Agincourt was a King Henry V led English victory against a larger French army during the Hundred Years' War (1415). In addition to a great deal of luck (ground conditions, poor French tactics) this was a battle where the power of the English archer (okay, a few Welsh as well) reigned supreme.
In typical Cornwall style he gives us a character (Nicholas Hook an English archer) against which to tell the tale and politics of the events leading up to, and the battle itself.
Cornwall's skill is in the blend of character, action and history. The Sharpe novels are obviously the perfect mix, and perhaps the blend was wrong with the Starbuck novels set in the US Civil War. In this novel it `almost' works but not quite. Hook is a talented fighter who hears voices (a Saint giving him advice) but his character felt lacking. On the march to Azincourt he suffers a personal tragedy, yet seems over it by morning!
The historical elements are, as always, excellent but the rest of this novel lacks that perfect blend that we have come to expect.
Disapointment, 14 Nov 2008
As a big fan of Bernard Cornwell I was disapointed with this latest work. The characters were dusted off versions from his 'Grail' series, the plotline unimaginative and unconvincing. To make it work It was necessary for the hero to start hearing the voices of saints, who would tell him what to do - hardly the convincing narrative we're used to. The only saving grace was the descriptions of the siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt itself. Well researched and excitingly told. Did Mr Cornewell succumb to the siren song of the Christmas Market and rush this one out? It certainly feels like it.
not yet available in Nice, 12 Nov 2008
WHY is the book called AZINCOURT? The famous battle was fought at AGINCOURT but the French, having lost the battle, changed the name of the village to AZINCOURT. The U.S. edition of this book reverts to the original name. One-up to the Yanks!
Life, love and heartstrings, 19 Nov 2008
Having just seen parts of her father's biography on RTE (Ireland's National TV station) and it noting that he was quite the absent father, I have to wonder how much of this is wishful thinking on the part of Cecelia Ahern.
It's a story about a boy who throws a semi-frozen turkey through a window who gets told a story about another man. A workaholic who learns lessons about the important things in life and who realises that life is now not tomorrow.
I can see this one splitting it's audience. It's unsubtle in it's message and pretty obvious in it's heart-string tugging. A little too obvious for my tastes, I'm sure other people's mileage may vary.
The packagaing is cute, the ribbon isn't a permanent part of the cover though and as it's usually shrink wrapped the lack of cover details makes it hard to decide what it's all about.
Great Read, 18 Nov 2008
A great story, I couldn`t put it down. I read it over a couple of days and couldn`t wait to read what happened next. Just when you think you`ve guessed the next part of the story, a twist happens. I read p.s. I love you before this and while I also think p.s. I love you is great this is even better again. I think they should make a film out of this too.
Wish I could be in two places at once!, 14 Nov 2008
Cecelia Ahern has done it again and wrote another brill book! I brought this book at the airport and could'nt resist unwrapping the red ribbon off it immediately and wow what an amazing read! I could'nt put the book down and within a few days had devoured it!!
Most of us can relate to the character in the book, needing to be in two places at the same time and with a xmas theme the book is enchanting taking you into a magical place while reading it.
Best Cecelia Ahern book yet! I await the next one....
Another great read by Cecelia, 13 Nov 2008
I love Cecelia Ahern and I am always so excited when another one of her books is released. She is so young but writes so wisely. I watched the video of her interview on Amazon and she seems like a really nice person. I thought that the book itself was a really great read. I read it in 2 days (around work!) and loved it. I finally finished it in the bath last night and the water went cold because I wanted to finish my book!
The story is a story within a story. The first story is about a kid who throws a frozen turkey through his Dad's living room window (it is Christmas time) and the second story is a story told by a policeman to the kid with the frozen turkey. It sounds confusing but it really isn't.
Lou is a busy working man. He never has time for anything and always needs to be in 2 places at the same time. Enter Gabe. Gabe is a homeless guy that Lou gives a job to. Gabe is so efficient and he seems to be everywhere in Lou's life. Gabe offers Lou some tablets for a headache that essentially means that he can be in 2 places at the same time. His dream come true!
The story follows Lou through Christmas time as he learns a few valuable lessons. I think they are lessons that many people could do with learning. The story was totally unbelievable but the message wasn't.
Another great read by Cecelia and the story will stay with you for a while after you stop reading.....
Whimsical and just brillaint, 07 Nov 2008
After reading all other Cecelia books and not finding them immature at all, but rather whimsical and fantasical (after all it's her world and she can do what she like's with it!), I really enjoyed this book. Devoured it within a day. I loved how it was Christmassy the whole way through, from naming the chapters, to the christmas decorations to the fact it had a moral chapter at the end. I find it impossible to choose a favourite book of Cecelia's but i will say she manages to create a temporary best friend for me in every book. Brilliant.
A truly beautiful book, 19 Nov 2008
I can't recommend this book highly enough.
It's true that its very setting fills it with sadness but its originality, delicacy, poetry and certainly humour make it a very special book indeed.
I's one of those books that risks making you unpopular as you try desperately to convince everyone you know to read it.
What a gifted writer, 12 Nov 2008
This book was accidently left on a bus and I wasn't even one quarter through. What did I do? I re-purchased it of course, also thanks to the fact that I purchased it both times with a great discount price, how could I not have? I would have missed out the opportunity to read such a good though tragic story. The author makes the story somewhat humorous in some parts to take off the horrific and sorrowful edge of what really happened in that time of history. It was a lovely read and the description of each character made you feel like you were right there viewing their actions. It was sad in many parts, heartwarming in others and you grew to like all the protagonists. I also liked the fact that many German words were thrown in and explained or simply translated, making an even more realistic Nazi Germany era impact on the reader. The author is highly talented and very clever.
Incredible - quite possibly the best book ever, 12 Nov 2008
I finished this book last night, rather poignantly on Armistice Day. I was blown away. I had no idea that this was a book for "young adults" but I certainly recommend that everyone of any age reads it. This novel is beautifully written and I found I was carrying the story around with me and thinking about the lives of these characters even when I wasn't actually reading the book. I read most of it on the train and decided to finish it off at home last night - good job I did too because I was literally sobbing my heart out by the end. I don't mean my eyes welled up with tears and I sniffed a little, I mean I was bawling my eyes out. I think quite simply that this is the best book I have ever read - the characters become real and even though you are warned at the very beginning that there will be losses and tragedy, it still hits you like you didn't see it coming. I was rooting for Liesel and her friends and family. I was even moved by the Narrator, Death, who in one sense claims he is only doing his job (like so many who worked in the Nazi Regime)but who is still touched by the the sparks of light from the human spirit in a world that is awash with darkness. I have never cried so much over a story, nor been so hopeful and uplifted at the same time. I should also mention, by no means as an afterthought, that it is also very very funny, with extra points going to Rosa Hubermann, Liesel's Mama. Please read this story and let it stay with you - discover it for yourself - you won't regret a moment spent on reading it.
Delicately written, thoughtful and meaningful., 10 Nov 2008
I won't go in to the details of this book because I don't want to ruin any of it for you, the story is very unique and told from an unusual perspective.
I just loved this! It's very rare that I keep hold of a book, I usually pass it to a friend to read but I found myself buying additional copies for my friends so that they could share the beauty of it.
This book is just outstanding! I wouldn't usually read this type of book, I thought it was going to be heart-wrenching and gritty which it actually was, but it was done in such a delicate manner that I just enjoyed reading it so much.
I was quite sorry I read it so quickly, I would have liked to keep the joy of reading it for longer.
Buy it, read it, keep it.
Didn't Quite Steal my Heart, 05 Nov 2008
An interesting ploy to have DEATH narrate this quaint tale of a young German girl stumbling upon and stealing various books whilst World War 2 and the holocaust is buzzing all around her.
For me it didn't quite hit home as a GREAT, but nonetheless it has a certain charm - and worth a run if you've got the time; at 560 pages you're going to need it as the events are fairly pedestrian.
Oh, give it a go...then tell me I'm wrong!
A great gift for any Dr Who fan!, 02 Oct 2008
My son aged 10 is heavily into Dr Who and was dying to get this annual. He was impressed by this new one and found it both interesting and entertaining. Although a cheap gift he rated it above some of the PS2 games he was given!!! Would recommend this annual for any Dr Who fan.
If you like Doctor Who, you'll like this annual, 21 Aug 2008
Once again, the BBC have put together an excellent Doctor Who annual for all television fans of the programme, young and old. Gracing the front cover is the Doctor and the Red Dalek Supreme and Davros on the back cover, all on a silver foil backing which makes the annual 'stand out' amongst the rest!
Readers of BBC's Doctor Who Adventures comic will instantly recognise the format inside the annual. Every page is covered with facts and features on Series Four and readers are re-introduced to Donna, Martha, Sarah Jane, Rose and Jenny, as well as the Ood, Adipose, Master, Hath, Sontarans and, of course, Davros and his Daleks. With a mix of text story, comic strips and puzzles, this annual is a worthy accompaniment to the Doctor Who StorybookDoctor Who Storybook 2009 (Dr Who).
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The Shack
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £1.99
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Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
Odd one out, 20 Nov 2008
I have read every one of Bernard Cornwells Books,had this book on pre order and looked forward so much to the books publication. I can only say, I was so dissapionted, I couldn't wait to get to the end and put it down.
400 pages, only two battles and it really didn't hold my interest at all, I can't express my dissapointment enough.
I must be the odd one out.
Great narrative...dreadfull dialogue..., 20 Nov 2008
This pains me..... Anyone who has met Bernard Cornwell at a book signing would I am sure agree with me when I say that he is a smashing bloke. I have many of his novels personaly signed and always buy his latest hardback.
Cornwell's 'hero' Hook is like so many other Cornwell hereos, so like Sharpe in fact and also Hookton.The dialogue between characters is repetative and boring and there are only so many ways you can insult the French!
Cornwell's discriptive narrative is always good though, and he paints great landscapes of blood, gore and battle with his usual sense of flair.
Most of the novels action does not take place at Agincourt but at Harfleur and the march towards the field of battle.
This was an effort to get through, mainly because of the one dimensional characters. His slowest and dullest book since another 'stand alone' novel, 'Stonehenge'
Cornwell's historical notes at the end of the book were of more interest and more insightful than the novel itself.
And now to really upset him.... BRING BACK STARBUCK!!!
Solid, but lacks something, 17 Nov 2008
Or Agincourt as it was when I was at school!
The Battle of Agincourt was a King Henry V led English victory against a larger French army during the Hundred Years' War (1415). In addition to a great deal of luck (ground conditions, poor French tactics) this was a battle where the power of the English archer (okay, a few Welsh as well) reigned supreme.
In typical Cornwall style he gives us a character (Nicholas Hook an English archer) against which to tell the tale and politics of the events leading up to, and the battle itself.
Cornwall's skill is in the blend of character, action and history. The Sharpe novels are obviously the perfect mix, and perhaps the blend was wrong with the Starbuck novels set in the US Civil War. In this novel it `almost' works but not quite. Hook is a talented fighter who hears voices (a Saint giving him advice) but his character felt lacking. On the march to Azincourt he suffers a personal tragedy, yet seems over it by morning!
The historical elements are, as always, excellent but the rest of this novel lacks that perfect blend that we have come to expect.
Disapointment, 14 Nov 2008
As a big fan of Bernard Cornwell I was disapointed with this latest work. The characters were dusted off versions from his 'Grail' series, the plotline unimaginative and unconvincing. To make it work It was necessary for the hero to start hearing the voices of saints, who would tell him what to do - hardly the convincing narrative we're used to. The only saving grace was the descriptions of the siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt itself. Well researched and excitingly told. Did Mr Cornewell succumb to the siren song of the Christmas Market and rush this one out? It certainly feels like it.
not yet available in Nice, 12 Nov 2008
WHY is the book called AZINCOURT? The famous battle was fought at AGINCOURT but the French, having lost the battle, changed the name of the village to AZINCOURT. The U.S. edition of this book reverts to the original name. One-up to the Yanks!
Life, love and heartstrings, 19 Nov 2008
Having just seen parts of her father's biography on RTE (Ireland's National TV station) and it noting that he was quite the absent father, I have to wonder how much of this is wishful thinking on the part of Cecelia Ahern.
It's a story about a boy who throws a semi-frozen turkey through a window who gets told a story about another man. A workaholic who learns lessons about the important things in life and who realises that life is now not tomorrow.
I can see this one splitting it's audience. It's unsubtle in it's message and pretty obvious in it's heart-string tugging. A little too obvious for my tastes, I'm sure other people's mileage may vary.
The packagaing is cute, the ribbon isn't a permanent part of the cover though and as it's usually shrink wrapped the lack of cover details makes it hard to decide what it's all about.
Great Read, 18 Nov 2008
A great story, I couldn`t put it down. I read it over a couple of days and couldn`t wait to read what happened next. Just when you think you`ve guessed the next part of the story, a twist happens. I read p.s. I love you before this and while I also think p.s. I love you is great this is even better again. I think they should make a film out of this too.
Wish I could be in two places at once!, 14 Nov 2008
Cecelia Ahern has done it again and wrote another brill book! I brought this book at the airport and could'nt resist unwrapping the red ribbon off it immediately and wow what an amazing read! I could'nt put the book down and within a few days had devoured it!!
Most of us can relate to the character in the book, needing to be in two places at the same time and with a xmas theme the book is enchanting taking you into a magical place while reading it.
Best Cecelia Ahern book yet! I await the next one....
Another great read by Cecelia, 13 Nov 2008
I love Cecelia Ahern and I am always so excited when another one of her books is released. She is so young but writes so wisely. I watched the video of her interview on Amazon and she seems like a really nice person. I thought that the book itself was a really great read. I read it in 2 days (around work!) and loved it. I finally finished it in the bath last night and the water went cold because I wanted to finish my book!
The story is a story within a story. The first story is about a kid who throws a frozen turkey through his Dad's living room window (it is Christmas time) and the second story is a story told by a policeman to the kid with the frozen turkey. It sounds confusing but it really isn't.
Lou is a busy working man. He never has time for anything and always needs to be in 2 places at the same time. Enter Gabe. Gabe is a homeless guy that Lou gives a job to. Gabe is so efficient and he seems to be everywhere in Lou's life. Gabe offers Lou some tablets for a headache that essentially means that he can be in 2 places at the same time. His dream come true!
The story follows Lou through Christmas time as he learns a few valuable lessons. I think they are lessons that many people could do with learning. The story was totally unbelievable but the message wasn't.
Another great read by Cecelia and the story will stay with you for a while after you stop reading.....
Whimsical and just brillaint, 07 Nov 2008
After reading all other Cecelia books and not finding them immature at all, but rather whimsical and fantasical (after all it's her world and she can do what she like's with it!), I really enjoyed this book. Devoured it within a day. I loved how it was Christmassy the whole way through, from naming the chapters, to the christmas decorations to the fact it had a moral chapter at the end. I find it impossible to choose a favourite book of Cecelia's but i will say she manages to create a temporary best friend for me in every book. Brilliant.
A truly beautiful book, 19 Nov 2008
I can't recommend this book highly enough.
It's true that its very setting fills it with sadness but its originality, delicacy, poetry and certainly humour make it a very special book indeed.
I's one of those books that risks making you unpopular as you try desperately to convince everyone you know to read it.
What a gifted writer, 12 Nov 2008
This book was accidently left on a bus and I wasn't even one quarter through. What did I do? I re-purchased it of course, also thanks to the fact that I purchased it both times with a great discount price, how could I not have? I would have missed out the opportunity to read such a good though tragic story. The author makes the story somewhat humorous in some parts to take off the horrific and sorrowful edge of what really happened in that time of history. It was a lovely read and the description of each character made you feel like you were right there viewing their actions. It was sad in many parts, heartwarming in others and you grew to like all the protagonists. I also liked the fact that many German words were thrown in and explained or simply translated, making an even more realistic Nazi Germany era impact on the reader. The author is highly talented and very clever.
Incredible - quite possibly the best book ever, 12 Nov 2008
I finished this book last night, rather poignantly on Armistice Day. I was blown away. I had no idea that this was a book for "young adults" but I certainly recommend that everyone of any age reads it. This novel is beautifully written and I found I was carrying the story around with me and thinking about the lives of these characters even when I wasn't actually reading the book. I read most of it on the train and decided to finish it off at home last night - good job I did too because I was literally sobbing my heart out by the end. I don't mean my eyes welled up with tears and I sniffed a little, I mean I was bawling my eyes out. I think quite simply that this is the best book I have ever read - the characters become real and even though you are warned at the very beginning that there will be losses and tragedy, it still hits you like you didn't see it coming. I was rooting for Liesel and her friends and family. I was even moved by the Narrator, Death, who in one sense claims he is only doing his job (like so many who worked in the Nazi Regime)but who is still touched by the the sparks of light from the human spirit in a world that is awash with darkness. I have never cried so much over a story, nor been so hopeful and uplifted at the same time. I should also mention, by no means as an afterthought, that it is also very very funny, with extra points going to Rosa Hubermann, Liesel's Mama. Please read this story and let it stay with you - discover it for yourself - you won't regret a moment spent on reading it.
Delicately written, thoughtful and meaningful., 10 Nov 2008
I won't go in to the details of this book because I don't want to ruin any of it for you, the story is very unique and told from an unusual perspective.
I just loved this! It's very rare that I keep hold of a book, I usually pass it to a friend to read but I found myself buying additional copies for my friends so that they could share the beauty of it.
This book is just outstanding! I wouldn't usually read this type of book, I thought it was going to be heart-wrenching and gritty which it actually was, but it was done in such a delicate manner that I just enjoyed reading it so much.
I was quite sorry I read it so quickly, I would have liked to keep the joy of reading it for longer.
Buy it, read it, keep it.
Didn't Quite Steal my Heart, 05 Nov 2008
An interesting ploy to have DEATH narrate this quaint tale of a young German girl stumbling upon and stealing various books whilst World War 2 and the holocaust is buzzing all around her.
For me it didn't quite hit home as a GREAT, but nonetheless it has a certain charm - and worth a run if you've got the time; at 560 pages you're going to need it as the events are fairly pedestrian.
Oh, give it a go...then tell me I'm wrong!
A great gift for any Dr Who fan!, 02 Oct 2008
My son aged 10 is heavily into Dr Who and was dying to get this annual. He was impressed by this new one and found it both interesting and entertaining. Although a cheap gift he rated it above some of the PS2 games he was given!!! Would recommend this annual for any Dr Who fan.
If you like Doctor Who, you'll like this annual, 21 Aug 2008
Once again, the BBC have put together an excellent Doctor Who annual for all television fans of the programme, young and old. Gracing the front cover is the Doctor and the Red Dalek Supreme and Davros on the back cover, all on a silver foil backing which makes the annual 'stand out' amongst the rest!
Readers of BBC's Doctor Who Adventures comic will instantly recognise the format inside the annual. Every page is covered with facts and features on Series Four and readers are re-introduced to Donna, Martha, Sarah Jane, Rose and Jenny, as well as the Ood, Adipose, Master, Hath, Sontarans and, of course, Davros and his Daleks. With a mix of text story, comic strips and puzzles, this annual is a worthy accompaniment to the Doctor Who StorybookDoctor Who Storybook 2009 (Dr Who).
Way off the mark...., 21 Nov 2008
I began reading this book with an open mind, expecting something quite extraordinary, partly based on the reviews here, and partly based on the excitement it seemed to be generating from those that had read it.
The basic premise (and this is in no way a spoiler) is that something very bad happens, and the novel attempts to work through the why's and what-if's of it all. No suprises there..
That it uses some unusual stereotypes for its central characters is unusual, and in parts delightful to read, but once again, no suprises there. I was expecting a little of that anyway.
When I got to the end of the book, and its underlying implication / message of "this might be a true strory" I was outraged.
Outraged, because I found the deeply hurtful central issue of "why did this (bad thing) happen" totally unanswered to any satisfaction. I found the implication that it was in some way "meant" to happen misjudged, and that all is OK in some other place, bizarre. And I found the whole treatment of such deeply dreadful loss and injustice skirted over, dismissed, and explained away.
This is totally unforgivable from the author (and a totally unforgivable crime in my book too.)
Sorry, fans, it just doesn't live up to the hype I'm afraid.
"This weekend is about relationship and love", 18 Nov 2008
The blurb says it's "heart-warming and inspirational", and that it's about a man, Mack, striving to understand why God allows pain and suffering in the world. Well, it wasn't my choice to read the book, it was given to me, and I was determined I would find it smug and irritating.
Right from the start there were surprises: after a few pages I realised it was funny, down to earth, and was going to deliver some jolts. First page, the men in Mack's family are all addressed by their middle name - as in my family. That got my attention. Then the setting seemed eerily familiar and jolt 2, I realised it is set in Nez Perce Indian country, Oregon. I have just read and reviewed "Selling Your Father's Bones" about this place... it was like journeying over some very familiar ground. Jolt 3, whether I liked it or not, the deceptively simplistic language of the book contains some mind-blowingly huge theological concepts in the most accessible way. There is a lot that orthodoxy will frown at. (Good) - and a lot of answers that will make a lot of sense to a lot of people.
Many readers will immediately love this; (dare I say, it is more likely to appeal to less cynical Americans than British) others like myself will have to struggle past the initial "over-sickly-sentimental" doubts and hesitations. But...
..."Mack would like you to know that if you happen upon this story and hate it, he says "Sorry...but it wasn't primarily written for you"" (page 13).
My own final jolt was on page 147 as this has been the subject of much debate among some of my friends recently.
Finally, if addressing God as Papa sounds weird: Jesus uses the word "daddy" in Mark 14:36.
Tears would not stop...., 14 Nov 2008
I am not a religious person at all but this book was gripping, moving, inspiring and gobsmacking all at the same time - a great story if you believe in God or not.
Now I understand the love of God, 12 Nov 2008
The great question of our time is: "Why does God allow terrible things to happen?" Here it is, bravely faced - one of the most appalling crimes that a man can commit, and God let him do it. WHY? The answer that Paul Young gives makes sense to me. It cannot be expressed in a few words - it needs a whole book.
Hmmmm..., 12 Nov 2008
With so many reviews to choose from there seems little point in spending much time on the plot, which is just as well as it really is as simple as "Man loses faith owing to family tragedy, meets a really nice God who's also kind of cool, all OK again".
As a story then, The Shack is barely worth a read. If you have faith however there's some interest in reading this authors interpretation of the Christian belief system and there are some nice ideas, albeit New Age and touchy feely about what God might think of how us humans have warped his teachings to suit our own ends.
The trouble with these ideas though is that, for me anyway, they were a bit unsatisfying. Unless I missed the point (a distinct possibility)it's all our fault man, 'cause we chose Free Will and stuff and although God's like really dissappointed he still loves us yeah?
It's that kind of book and goes nowhere near asking if he loved us all so much why'd he kill all the first born that time and unleash all those plagues on the Egyptians, who are also "his" people apparently. I think the author may have skipped the Old Testament when they did it in Sunday School.
If I met God the first thing I'd ask is what's with this Cancer business or why do you let people be born with mental or physical problems? Mack (the protagonist) doesn't bother, sticking to asking why other humans can do such bad things to the rest of us. Whilst its not unreasonable to presume a man who's daughter is killed by a serial killer may be a little obsessed about why God would allow it, half way through I think God had pretty much covered the reason. Surely, given the opportunity presented to him, Mack might have moved on to a few tougher questions?
If you don't buy the whole God idea by the way, it's probably not worth a look.
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Customer Reviews
A decent read but a disappointing Booker., 17 Nov 2008
We agreed to read the Booker winner for book club, and this book was exactly what I expected. Far from sensationally exposing the little-known 'dark underbelly' of modern India, it is exactly the same as the all the other books exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India - we read Q&A last year and this book is pretty much the same, even inferior. In fact, exposing the little-known dark underbelly of modern India seems to be the most popular genre currently in print.
Having said that, this is not a terrible book, although I also didn't find it at all humourous. It is well paced and easy to read and if the author wanted to convey the utter hopelessness of everyone alive in India today, he did this well. Again though, and this is my criticism of all the other books like this, it is hard to believe that nearly everyone in India, rich or poor, is so lacking in empathy and compassion, is driven purely by greed and social status, living a kind of kill-or-be-killed solitary frontier existence. 'Family Matters' by Rohinton Mistry gives a far less obviously sensational portrait of a modern Indian family who happen to find themselves in a country rife with corruption and dead ends, rather than making this sensationalism the point of the book.
Nothing new, nothing outstanding - if I hadn't read this story dozens of times already I might have been more impressed. And was it really better than Rushdie's 'Enchantress' or Ghosh's 'Poppies'? Not for me.
Booker beware., 15 Nov 2008
I am with A. M. Dell Munro. If this is the best then? I don't even think it was a particularly clever story. I was glad to finish it only just before putting it in the bin. What do you clever Booker boys look for in a book? Bah bah Humbug.
The White Tiger - Journey into the Light..., 05 Nov 2008
I enjoyed reading this book, the storyline was straightforward and easy to follow and having never been to India myself, I found it refreshing to read about it the way it really is, without having to sit through fantastical descriptions with no correlation to the real world.
I noticed that many have said they found the character two dimensional. On the contrary, I found him to have quite an interesting character, and as I read along I couldn't help but wish he finds what he is looking for, that he manages to escape the 'cage' holding him in (be it due to lack of education, of money, or simply due to the difficulties he is faced with, born in the Darnkess but straining to move into the Light).
I also think that the fact that it is written as a series of 'letters' to the Chinese premier shouldn't be taken seriously, it could just be taken to be directed straight at us, as readers...
If this is the best then...., 05 Nov 2008
This won the Booker prize - if it the best then the worst must have been pretty awful. The book never felt as if it got any momentum going. Yes it was descriptive, but at times I wished that Balram would slit my throat too. I am sure that the portrayal of India is probably accurate and the author will not be Mr. Popular back home, but don't you sometimes wish that a story could win one of these prizes instead of some "clever satirical tale"
A readable Booker Prize winner!, 29 Oct 2008
I saw the author on tv recently say that he wanted to write about the 'real India' and if he has succeeded (I've not visited the county) I'm not surprised the novels's jacket suggests that India's tourist board won't be pleased with the result.
The coutry is aflow with sewage and dirt and only money and ruthless ambition will keep you out of it: very Dickensian. Adiga portrays an India where everyone in authority welcomes a backhander and the only way for a poor person to succeeed is through murder, ar at the very least by allowing themselves to be corrupted (like the fellow villager who finds end up with an important government job).
The narrator is writing to China's premier to tell him about the 'real' India in the run up to his visiting the country. He wants to lift the veil on the country and tell the man how things really are. I found what he described shocking and depressing. His take on Indian culture was illuminating and he seems to conclude that whilst India may soon emerge as a super power few of the country's problems are likely to be addressed for its ordinary citizens. Like China found during the Olympics, India may also have to deal with increased criticism of it's social structure as its international profile increases.
A lot of people refer to the novels humour but I didn't find any of it particularly funny. What I did find was a great read, a readable Booker winner (!),a book that showed me another world and one that made me think. Read it!
Odd one out, 20 Nov 2008
I have read every one of Bernard Cornwells Books,had this book on pre order and looked forward so much to the books publication. I can only say, I was so dissapionted, I couldn't wait to get to the end and put it down.
400 pages, only two battles and it really didn't hold my interest at all, I can't express my dissapointment enough.
I must be the odd one out.
Great narrative...dreadfull dialogue..., 20 Nov 2008
This pains me..... Anyone who has met Bernard Cornwell at a book signing would I am sure agree with me when I say that he is a smashing bloke. I have many of his novels personaly signed and always buy his latest hardback.
Cornwell's 'hero' Hook is like so many other Cornwell hereos, so like Sharpe in fact and also Hookton.The dialogue between characters is repetative and boring and there are only so many ways you can insult the French!
Cornwell's discriptive narrative is always good though, and he paints great landscapes of blood, gore and battle with his usual sense of flair.
Most of the novels action does not take place at Agincourt but at Harfleur and the march towards the field of battle.
This was an effort to get through, mainly because of the one dimensional characters. His slowest and dullest book since another 'stand alone' novel, 'Stonehenge'
Cornwell's historical notes at the end of the book were of more interest and more insightful than the novel itself.
And now to really upset him.... BRING BACK STARBUCK!!!
Solid, but lacks something, 17 Nov 2008
Or Agincourt as it was when I was at school!
The Battle of Agincourt was a King Henry V led English victory against a larger French army during the Hundred Years' War (1415). In addition to a great deal of luck (ground conditions, poor French tactics) this was a battle where the power of the English archer (okay, a few Welsh as well) reigned supreme.
In typical Cornwall style he gives us a character (Nicholas Hook an English archer) against which to tell the tale and politics of the events leading up to, and the battle itself.
Cornwall's skill is in the blend of character, action and history. The Sharpe novels are obviously the perfect mix, and perhaps the blend was wrong with the Starbuck novels set in the US Civil War. In this novel it `almost' works but not quite. Hook is a talented fighter who hears voices (a Saint giving him advice) but his character felt lacking. On the march to Azincourt he suffers a personal tragedy, yet seems over it by morning!
The historical elements are, as always, excellent but the rest of this novel lacks that perfect blend that we have come to expect.
Disapointment, 14 Nov 2008
As a big fan of Bernard Cornwell I was disapointed with this latest work. The characters were dusted off versions from his 'Grail' series, the plotline unimaginative and unconvincing. To make it work It was necessary for the hero to start hearing the voices of saints, who would tell him what to do - hardly the convincing narrative we're used to. The only saving grace was the descriptions of the siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt itself. Well researched and excitingly told. Did Mr Cornewell succumb to the siren song of the Christmas Market and rush this one out? It certainly feels like it.
not yet available in Nice, 12 Nov 2008
WHY is the book called AZINCOURT? The famous battle was fought at AGINCOURT but the French, having lost the battle, changed the name of the village to AZINCOURT. The U.S. edition of this book reverts to the original name. One-up to the Yanks!
Life, love and heartstrings, 19 Nov 2008
Having just seen parts of her father's biography on RTE (Ireland's National TV station) and it noting that he was quite the absent father, I have to wonder how much of this is wishful thinking on the part of Cecelia Ahern.
It's a story about a boy who throws a semi-frozen turkey through a window who gets told a story about another man. A workaholic who learns lessons about the important things in life and who realises that life is now not tomorrow.
I can see this one splitting it's audience. It's unsubtle in it's message and pretty obvious in it's heart-string tugging. A little too obvious for my tastes, I'm sure other people's mileage may vary.
The packagaing is cute, the ribbon isn't a permanent part of the cover though and as it's usually shrink wrapped the lack of cover details makes it hard to decide what it's all about.
Great Read, 18 Nov 2008
A great story, I couldn`t put it down. I read it over a couple of days and couldn`t wait to read what happened next. Just when you think you`ve guessed the next part of the story, a twist happens. I read p.s. I love you before this and while I also think p.s. I love you is great this is even better again. I think they should make a film out of this too.
Wish I could be in two places at once!, 14 Nov 2008
Cecelia Ahern has done it again and wrote another brill book! I brought this book at the airport and could'nt resist unwrapping the red ribbon off it immediately and wow what an amazing read! I could'nt put the book down and within a few days had devoured it!!
Most of us can relate to the character in the book, needing to be in two places at the same time and with a xmas theme the book is enchanting taking you into a magical place while reading it.
Best Cecelia Ahern book yet! I await the next one....
Another great read by Cecelia, 13 Nov 2008
I love Cecelia Ahern and I am always so excited when another one of her books is released. She is so young but writes so wisely. I watched the video of her interview on Amazon and she seems like a really nice person. I thought that the book itself was a really great read. I read it in 2 days (around work!) and loved it. I finally finished it in the bath last night and the water went cold because I wanted to finish my book!
The story is a story within a story. The first story is about a kid who throws a frozen turkey through his Dad's living room window (it is Christmas time) and the second story is a story told by a policeman to the kid with the frozen turkey. It sounds confusing but it really isn't.
Lou is a busy working man. He never has time for anything and always needs to be in 2 places at the same time. Enter Gabe. Gabe is a homeless guy that Lou gives a job to. Gabe is so efficient and he seems to be everywhere in Lou's life. Gabe offers Lou some tablets for a headache that essentially means that he can be in 2 places at the same time. His dream come true!
The story follows Lou through Christmas time as he learns a few valuable lessons. I think they are lessons that many people could do with learning. The story was totally unbelievable but the m | | |