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 Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
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Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
Some parts are autobiographical, 24 Sep 2007
"The Body" is a novella (shorter than a novel and longer than a short story), and was originally published as one of four novellas in the collection "Different Seasons" (1982). The book "Different Seasons" contains one story for each season, and "The Body" is subtitled "Fall from Innocence".
In "The Body" we are in the company of four 12-year-old boys who are very good friends. The leader of the group is Chris, a tough but smart guy from a down-and-out family with a drunken father. Chris is trying to break out of the destiny his background is forcing him into, and he's the real hero of the story.
Gordie is more the intellectual and sensitive type and is second in command in the group. Gordie tells the story in the first person and sounds very much like Stephen King's alter ego. (The adult Gordie, in writing the story, tells briefly how he has become a successful writer of horror books.)
The last two members of the group are Teddy, the wild one, and Vern, the cautious one. Neither Vern nor Teddy are leaders but they are each very unique and real boys, and almost as important to the story as Chris and Gordie.
Chris, Gordie, Teddy and Vern set out on an adventure, a "pilgrimage" to see the dead body of a boy from another town. Their trek stretches out over two days, much longer than they expected, and involves several unexpected encounters and dangerous situations.
What makes "The Body" such a wonderful story is the way we can relate to these four boys and their lives and the way they interact with each other. Stephen King does a fantastic job of writing about people in a way that makes them seem completely real and authentic. We think back to our own childhood and the struggles and the friendships and the pain of growing up. We nod in agreement to many of the things Stephen King tells us about what he has discovered as being the important things in life.
It is this honesty and insight into human nature that makes "The Body" such a good story.
The audio version of "The Body" lasts almost six hours and is read by Frank Muller, who does a great job. If you're not into audio books then it might be a better idea to buy "Different Seasons" as a printed book instead of "The Body", and get an additional three Stephen King novellas.
The movie "Stand By Me" (1986) is based on "The Body" and was directed by Rob Reiner. The movie follows the novella quite closely, although many minor things are changed / omitted / added as is always the case when a book is turned into a movie. The most important difference is that Gordie becomes the main character instead of Chris.
Included in the DVD version of "Stand By Me" is a 37-minute "featurette" with interviews with Stephen King, Rob Reiner and several of the actors (now all adult). Stephen King mentions that he thinks it's interesting that Rob Reiner made Gordie the main character, and that he had no objection to this change in emphasis between Gordie and Chris. Stephen King also confirms that much of "The Body" is autobiographical, in that he used several experiences from his own childhood in the story.
Highly recommended, both "The Body" and "Stand By Me".
Rennie Petersen
Brilliant!!, 20 Sep 2005
The book, Is better than the film in many ways, but also not as good! You don't really get the kindness of Chris & the dopeyness of Vern in the book, but you get alot more detail in other aspects. So, in cases like this, GET THEM BOTH!!
THE BODY, 14 Jul 2005
This story is the best stephen king book i have ever read. I had seen the film which was ace and i went out to buy the book which was even better! well worth reading and watching the film called stand by me!:)
Better than the film, 03 Oct 2003
I love Steven King's books they leave you on edge and you can get into the book straight away. This book tells of four young boys who go on an "adventure" to find the body of another young boy. Very excting it is better than the film, as the book gets straight to the point were as the film drags some of the "adventure" out.
The best King book, 16 Jun 2002
This is my absolute favourite Stephen King book of all time. Despite popular belief, King doesn't only write horror - he writes beautiful, meaningful stories like this too.
The style of writing and the insight into young boys' minds is wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I loved it.
Bear in mind, though, that this is adapted from the original "The Body" (from "Different Seasons"). This is the same story, simplified for schoolchildren.
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Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
Some parts are autobiographical, 24 Sep 2007
"The Body" is a novella (shorter than a novel and longer than a short story), and was originally published as one of four novellas in the collection "Different Seasons" (1982). The book "Different Seasons" contains one story for each season, and "The Body" is subtitled "Fall from Innocence".
In "The Body" we are in the company of four 12-year-old boys who are very good friends. The leader of the group is Chris, a tough but smart guy from a down-and-out family with a drunken father. Chris is trying to break out of the destiny his background is forcing him into, and he's the real hero of the story.
Gordie is more the intellectual and sensitive type and is second in command in the group. Gordie tells the story in the first person and sounds very much like Stephen King's alter ego. (The adult Gordie, in writing the story, tells briefly how he has become a successful writer of horror books.)
The last two members of the group are Teddy, the wild one, and Vern, the cautious one. Neither Vern nor Teddy are leaders but they are each very unique and real boys, and almost as important to the story as Chris and Gordie.
Chris, Gordie, Teddy and Vern set out on an adventure, a "pilgrimage" to see the dead body of a boy from another town. Their trek stretches out over two days, much longer than they expected, and involves several unexpected encounters and dangerous situations.
What makes "The Body" such a wonderful story is the way we can relate to these four boys and their lives and the way they interact with each other. Stephen King does a fantastic job of writing about people in a way that makes them seem completely real and authentic. We think back to our own childhood and the struggles and the friendships and the pain of growing up. We nod in agreement to many of the things Stephen King tells us about what he has discovered as being the important things in life.
It is this honesty and insight into human nature that makes "The Body" such a good story.
The audio version of "The Body" lasts almost six hours and is read by Frank Muller, who does a great job. If you're not into audio books then it might be a better idea to buy "Different Seasons" as a printed book instead of "The Body", and get an additional three Stephen King novellas.
The movie "Stand By Me" (1986) is based on "The Body" and was directed by Rob Reiner. The movie follows the novella quite closely, although many minor things are changed / omitted / added as is always the case when a book is turned into a movie. The most important difference is that Gordie becomes the main character instead of Chris.
Included in the DVD version of "Stand By Me" is a 37-minute "featurette" with interviews with Stephen King, Rob Reiner and several of the actors (now all adult). Stephen King mentions that he thinks it's interesting that Rob Reiner made Gordie the main character, and that he had no objection to this change in emphasis between Gordie and Chris. Stephen King also confirms that much of "The Body" is autobiographical, in that he used several experiences from his own childhood in the story.
Highly recommended, both "The Body" and "Stand By Me".
Rennie Petersen
Brilliant!!, 20 Sep 2005
The book, Is better than the film in many ways, but also not as good! You don't really get the kindness of Chris & the dopeyness of Vern in the book, but you get alot more detail in other aspects. So, in cases like this, GET THEM BOTH!!
THE BODY, 14 Jul 2005
This story is the best stephen king book i have ever read. I had seen the film which was ace and i went out to buy the book which was even better! well worth reading and watching the film called stand by me!:)
Better than the film, 03 Oct 2003
I love Steven King's books they leave you on edge and you can get into the book straight away. This book tells of four young boys who go on an "adventure" to find the body of another young boy. Very excting it is better than the film, as the book gets straight to the point were as the film drags some of the "adventure" out.
The best King book, 16 Jun 2002
This is my absolute favourite Stephen King book of all time. Despite popular belief, King doesn't only write horror - he writes beautiful, meaningful stories like this too.
The style of writing and the insight into young boys' minds is wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I loved it.
Bear in mind, though, that this is adapted from the original "The Body" (from "Different Seasons"). This is the same story, simplified for schoolchildren.
Caution! Its been messed with., 13 Oct 2007
I originally ordered this book of amazon believing it to be the original Charles Dickens, unabridged and unmessed with. Unfortunately its not, its a simplified 'Beginners' version for children. As I have still not read the proper adult version I can't comment on the story, but if your wanting a childrens version this is well presented and cheap, if you don't want a kids version AVOID.
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Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
Some parts are autobiographical, 24 Sep 2007
"The Body" is a novella (shorter than a novel and longer than a short story), and was originally published as one of four novellas in the collection "Different Seasons" (1982). The book "Different Seasons" contains one story for each season, and "The Body" is subtitled "Fall from Innocence".
In "The Body" we are in the company of four 12-year-old boys who are very good friends. The leader of the group is Chris, a tough but smart guy from a down-and-out family with a drunken father. Chris is trying to break out of the destiny his background is forcing him into, and he's the real hero of the story.
Gordie is more the intellectual and sensitive type and is second in command in the group. Gordie tells the story in the first person and sounds very much like Stephen King's alter ego. (The adult Gordie, in writing the story, tells briefly how he has become a successful writer of horror books.)
The last two members of the group are Teddy, the wild one, and Vern, the cautious one. Neither Vern nor Teddy are leaders but they are each very unique and real boys, and almost as important to the story as Chris and Gordie.
Chris, Gordie, Teddy and Vern set out on an adventure, a "pilgrimage" to see the dead body of a boy from another town. Their trek stretches out over two days, much longer than they expected, and involves several unexpected encounters and dangerous situations.
What makes "The Body" such a wonderful story is the way we can relate to these four boys and their lives and the way they interact with each other. Stephen King does a fantastic job of writing about people in a way that makes them seem completely real and authentic. We think back to our own childhood and the struggles and the friendships and the pain of growing up. We nod in agreement to many of the things Stephen King tells us about what he has discovered as being the important things in life.
It is this honesty and insight into human nature that makes "The Body" such a good story.
The audio version of "The Body" lasts almost six hours and is read by Frank Muller, who does a great job. If you're not into audio books then it might be a better idea to buy "Different Seasons" as a printed book instead of "The Body", and get an additional three Stephen King novellas.
The movie "Stand By Me" (1986) is based on "The Body" and was directed by Rob Reiner. The movie follows the novella quite closely, although many minor things are changed / omitted / added as is always the case when a book is turned into a movie. The most important difference is that Gordie becomes the main character instead of Chris.
Included in the DVD version of "Stand By Me" is a 37-minute "featurette" with interviews with Stephen King, Rob Reiner and several of the actors (now all adult). Stephen King mentions that he thinks it's interesting that Rob Reiner made Gordie the main character, and that he had no objection to this change in emphasis between Gordie and Chris. Stephen King also confirms that much of "The Body" is autobiographical, in that he used several experiences from his own childhood in the story.
Highly recommended, both "The Body" and "Stand By Me".
Rennie Petersen
Brilliant!!, 20 Sep 2005
The book, Is better than the film in many ways, but also not as good! You don't really get the kindness of Chris & the dopeyness of Vern in the book, but you get alot more detail in other aspects. So, in cases like this, GET THEM BOTH!!
THE BODY, 14 Jul 2005
This story is the best stephen king book i have ever read. I had seen the film which was ace and i went out to buy the book which was even better! well worth reading and watching the film called stand by me!:)
Better than the film, 03 Oct 2003
I love Steven King's books they leave you on edge and you can get into the book straight away. This book tells of four young boys who go on an "adventure" to find the body of another young boy. Very excting it is better than the film, as the book gets straight to the point were as the film drags some of the "adventure" out.
The best King book, 16 Jun 2002
This is my absolute favourite Stephen King book of all time. Despite popular belief, King doesn't only write horror - he writes beautiful, meaningful stories like this too.
The style of writing and the insight into young boys' minds is wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I loved it.
Bear in mind, though, that this is adapted from the original "The Body" (from "Different Seasons"). This is the same story, simplified for schoolchildren.
Caution! Its been messed with., 13 Oct 2007
I originally ordered this book of amazon believing it to be the original Charles Dickens, unabridged and unmessed with. Unfortunately its not, its a simplified 'Beginners' version for children. As I have still not read the proper adult version I can't comment on the story, but if your wanting a childrens version this is well presented and cheap, if you don't want a kids version AVOID.
Why did I put off reading it for so long?, 26 Sep 2008
What an amazing book! I always put off reading it because it seemed rather stuffy, somehow - how wrong I was! It is a taut and brilliantly written novel, winding through different genres, exquisite symbolism and intricate complexities, into a fantastic and compelling story.
When a shy, poor young woman meets a rich widower in Monte Carlo, she falls in love with him and is astounded when he asks her to be his wife - the new Mrs de Winter. However, she soon realises that the previous Mrs de Winter's presence still hangs heavily over his life and home - the grand Manderley, set on du Maurier's beloved Cornish coast - and that the terrible secrets of their marriage will haunt them both until Rebecca takes her revenge from beyond the grave...
Full of vivid characters, naive hope, thrilling mystery, chilling despair, and descriptions that ring with pure poetry, there is no wonder that this book remains well loved through the generations.
Wonderfully sinister..., 01 Jul 2008
I first read this book as a teenager but remembered how, even then, I had appreciated the writing. And it was just as magical the second time around.
'Rebecca' is the tale of Maxim de Winter, his first wife Rebecca, his nameless second wife (and this is really intriguing - why DDM chose not to name her heroine is poignant in the extreme..) and Manderley - the house in which the tale is set. Narrated by the second wife and beginning at the end (a style I love anyway), we are led by the hand into the controlling World of Maxim and with a 'wing' to house each wife and the formidable housekeeper Mrs Danvers, you can see that such a fruitful cast of characters will make for great reading.
You are initially of the belief that the first wife drowned in an accident but soon, the plot thickens and darkens and the myriad twists and turns slowly draw you to a different conclusion. And the tale then really gets going. All is not quite what it seems. Creepy.
Far fetched, romantic, dreamy and dramatic - Rebecca is a must for readers of all ages...
Magical, 08 Jun 2008
I first read Rebecca when I was 12 and over the years, I believe I must have read it eight more times. Nothing can compare to the first reading of course, the spellbinding writing of Du Maurier is such that you enter the world she creates. you are not a witness you are absorbed into the story. This book reads like a dream, at times you enter a sort of trance ( a pleasurable one, have no fear)probably created by the rhythmic use of language and imagery.
If there are people around who haven't read it yet, you simply must.
You must share the story of that young woman who feels so inadequate, swept off her feet by this older, fascinating man, unable to fill the shoes of Lady of the manor, haunted by all she hears about the first wife, beautiful, accomplished and so much more than she herself will ever be. You must read about the fascinating Mrs Danvers, probably one of the finest characters ever drawn, the housekeeper, totally devoted to the memory of that first wife and who therefore resents the second or rather hates her so much she will try her best to crush her.
A timeless classic, a triumph... words can't do it justice.
Superb, 03 Jun 2008
I first read this spellbinding book about 25 years ago. I continue to read it every few years and still find it exciting, sad, scary in places and as dramatic as the first time. Unlike many others I am not a massive fan of the first chapter but, believe me, you are soon reeled in by the brilliance of the narrative. The story is ageless and I can't recommend it enough. I often get annoyed and find Mrs De Winter a bit spineless and Max de Winter a bit bossy and autocratic but Daphne du Maurier is such a good story teller that you gloss over her characters flaws and still find yourself caring about what happens to them. I often think it would be fascinating if we could have heard Rebecca's version of events written by du Maurier. Please give this book a go, it stays with you long after you have finished it.
Flawless!, 26 May 2008
There are so many great books out there but this is one of the best! Thrilling is the best word to describe this book buts not really enough! Every character is great and the story is among the best every written, if you've seen the film then you know how good it is but add an extra 20% of brilliance for the book! I want to meet Rebecca in the same way I want to meet Alexis Colby!
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Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
Some parts are autobiographical, 24 Sep 2007
"The Body" is a novella (shorter than a novel and longer than a short story), and was originally published as one of four novellas in the collection "Different Seasons" (1982). The book "Different Seasons" contains one story for each season, and "The Body" is subtitled "Fall from Innocence".
In "The Body" we are in the company of four 12-year-old boys who are very good friends. The leader of the group is Chris, a tough but smart guy from a down-and-out family with a drunken father. Chris is trying to break out of the destiny his background is forcing him into, and he's the real hero of the story.
Gordie is more the intellectual and sensitive type and is second in command in the group. Gordie tells the story in the first person and sounds very much like Stephen King's alter ego. (The adult Gordie, in writing the story, tells briefly how he has become a successful writer of horror books.)
The last two members of the group are Teddy, the wild one, and Vern, the cautious one. Neither Vern nor Teddy are leaders but they are each very unique and real boys, and almost as important to the story as Chris and Gordie.
Chris, Gordie, Teddy and Vern set out on an adventure, a "pilgrimage" to see the dead body of a boy from another town. Their trek stretches out over two days, much longer than they expected, and involves several unexpected encounters and dangerous situations.
What makes "The Body" such a wonderful story is the way we can relate to these four boys and their lives and the way they interact with each other. Stephen King does a fantastic job of writing about people in a way that makes them seem completely real and authentic. We think back to our own childhood and the struggles and the friendships and the pain of growing up. We nod in agreement to many of the things Stephen King tells us about what he has discovered as being the important things in life.
It is this honesty and insight into human nature that makes "The Body" such a good story.
The audio version of "The Body" lasts almost six hours and is read by Frank Muller, who does a great job. If you're not into audio books then it might be a better idea to buy "Different Seasons" as a printed book instead of "The Body", and get an additional three Stephen King novellas.
The movie "Stand By Me" (1986) is based on "The Body" and was directed by Rob Reiner. The movie follows the novella quite closely, although many minor things are changed / omitted / added as is always the case when a book is turned into a movie. The most important difference is that Gordie becomes the main character instead of Chris.
Included in the DVD version of "Stand By Me" is a 37-minute "featurette" with interviews with Stephen King, Rob Reiner and several of the actors (now all adult). Stephen King mentions that he thinks it's interesting that Rob Reiner made Gordie the main character, and that he had no objection to this change in emphasis between Gordie and Chris. Stephen King also confirms that much of "The Body" is autobiographical, in that he used several experiences from his own childhood in the story.
Highly recommended, both "The Body" and "Stand By Me".
Rennie Petersen
Brilliant!!, 20 Sep 2005
The book, Is better than the film in many ways, but also not as good! You don't really get the kindness of Chris & the dopeyness of Vern in the book, but you get alot more detail in other aspects. So, in cases like this, GET THEM BOTH!!
THE BODY, 14 Jul 2005
This story is the best stephen king book i have ever read. I had seen the film which was ace and i went out to buy the book which was even better! well worth reading and watching the film called stand by me!:)
Better than the film, 03 Oct 2003
I love Steven King's books they leave you on edge and you can get into the book straight away. This book tells of four young boys who go on an "adventure" to find the body of another young boy. Very excting it is better than the film, as the book gets straight to the point were as the film drags some of the "adventure" out.
The best King book, 16 Jun 2002
This is my absolute favourite Stephen King book of all time. Despite popular belief, King doesn't only write horror - he writes beautiful, meaningful stories like this too.
The style of writing and the insight into young boys' minds is wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I loved it.
Bear in mind, though, that this is adapted from the original "The Body" (from "Different Seasons"). This is the same story, simplified for schoolchildren.
Caution! Its been messed with., 13 Oct 2007
I originally ordered this book of amazon believing it to be the original Charles Dickens, unabridged and unmessed with. Unfortunately its not, its a simplified 'Beginners' version for children. As I have still not read the proper adult version I can't comment on the story, but if your wanting a childrens version this is well presented and cheap, if you don't want a kids version AVOID.
Why did I put off reading it for so long?, 26 Sep 2008
What an amazing book! I always put off reading it because it seemed rather stuffy, somehow - how wrong I was! It is a taut and brilliantly written novel, winding through different genres, exquisite symbolism and intricate complexities, into a fantastic and compelling story.
When a shy, poor young woman meets a rich widower in Monte Carlo, she falls in love with him and is astounded when he asks her to be his wife - the new Mrs de Winter. However, she soon realises that the previous Mrs de Winter's presence still hangs heavily over his life and home - the grand Manderley, set on du Maurier's beloved Cornish coast - and that the terrible secrets of their marriage will haunt them both until Rebecca takes her revenge from beyond the grave...
Full of vivid characters, naive hope, thrilling mystery, chilling despair, and descriptions that ring with pure poetry, there is no wonder that this book remains well loved through the generations.
Wonderfully sinister..., 01 Jul 2008
I first read this book as a teenager but remembered how, even then, I had appreciated the writing. And it was just as magical the second time around.
'Rebecca' is the tale of Maxim de Winter, his first wife Rebecca, his nameless second wife (and this is really intriguing - why DDM chose not to name her heroine is poignant in the extreme..) and Manderley - the house in which the tale is set. Narrated by the second wife and beginning at the end (a style I love anyway), we are led by the hand into the controlling World of Maxim and with a 'wing' to house each wife and the formidable housekeeper Mrs Danvers, you can see that such a fruitful cast of characters will make for great reading.
You are initially of the belief that the first wife drowned in an accident but soon, the plot thickens and darkens and the myriad twists and turns slowly draw you to a different conclusion. And the tale then really gets going. All is not quite what it seems. Creepy.
Far fetched, romantic, dreamy and dramatic - Rebecca is a must for readers of all ages...
Magical, 08 Jun 2008
I first read Rebecca when I was 12 and over the years, I believe I must have read it eight more times. Nothing can compare to the first reading of course, the spellbinding writing of Du Maurier is such that you enter the world she creates. you are not a witness you are absorbed into the story. This book reads like a dream, at times you enter a sort of trance ( a pleasurable one, have no fear)probably created by the rhythmic use of language and imagery.
If there are people around who haven't read it yet, you simply must.
You must share the story of that young woman who feels so inadequate, swept off her feet by this older, fascinating man, unable to fill the shoes of Lady of the manor, haunted by all she hears about the first wife, beautiful, accomplished and so much more than she herself will ever be. You must read about the fascinating Mrs Danvers, probably one of the finest characters ever drawn, the housekeeper, totally devoted to the memory of that first wife and who therefore resents the second or rather hates her so much she will try her best to crush her.
A timeless classic, a triumph... words can't do it justice.
Superb, 03 Jun 2008
I first read this spellbinding book about 25 years ago. I continue to read it every few years and still find it exciting, sad, scary in places and as dramatic as the first time. Unlike many others I am not a massive fan of the first chapter but, believe me, you are soon reeled in by the brilliance of the narrative. The story is ageless and I can't recommend it enough. I often get annoyed and find Mrs De Winter a bit spineless and Max de Winter a bit bossy and autocratic but Daphne du Maurier is such a good story teller that you gloss over her characters flaws and still find yourself caring about what happens to them. I often think it would be fascinating if we could have heard Rebecca's version of events written by du Maurier. Please give this book a go, it stays with you long after you have finished it.
Flawless!, 26 May 2008
There are so many great books out there but this is one of the best! Thrilling is the best word to describe this book buts not really enough! Every character is great and the story is among the best every written, if you've seen the film then you know how good it is but add an extra 20% of brilliance for the book! I want to meet Rebecca in the same way I want to meet Alexis Colby!
I loved it, 22 Jul 2005
No Longer at Ease is beautifully written book about colonialism and the alienating influence it has on those Africans who lose touch with their roots as they try to adapt to the changing times. I enjoyed this rich, challenging and fascinating story. The Usurper and Other Stories, The Village of waiting, Disciples of Fortune, Anthills of the Savannah, Triple Agent Double Cross are some of the other African titles I enjoyed.
"A journey on a downward spiral with the protagonist.", 14 May 2001
I've acquired a taste for Achebe and his ways, but this lesser known work is the one that I've enjoyed most. The author has come under criticism from feminists for the relegation of women in his novels, but for me he is describing a reality rather than making value judgements himself. Some of Achebe's literature is difficult for a twenty-first century Westerner to understand as it focuses so much on the traditional African ways of life, and perhaps this novel, set in the 1960's in the city of Lagos, is easier for us to comprehend. This book captured my full sympathies: it is easy to see the inevitability of corruption in the society Achebe is describing, and the reader is encouraged to journey on a downward spiral along with the protagonist. Thus the reader forms a bond with the youthful, intelligent and idealistic Obi and is left drenched with a sense of poignancy and anger.
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Product Description
In our ever-shrinking world, where popular Western culture seems to have infected every nation on the planet, it is hard to find even a small niche of unspoiled land--forget searching for pristine islands or continents. This is the situation in Alex Garland's debut novel, The Beach. Human progress has reduced Eden to a secret little beach near Thailand. In the tradition of grand adventure novels, Richard, a rootless traveller rambling around Thailand on his way somewhere else, is given a hand-drawn map by a madman who calls himself Daffy Duck. He and two French travellers set out on a journey to find this paradise. What makes this a truly satisfying novel is the number of levels on which it operates. On the surface it's a fast-paced adventure novel; at another level it explores why we search for these utopias, be they mysterious lost continents or small island communes. Garland weaves a gripping and thought-provoking narrative that suggests we are, in fact, such products of our Western culture that we cannot help but pollute and ultimately destroy the very sanctuary we seek. --Amazon.comIn our ever-shrinking world, where popular Western culture seems to have infected every nation on the planet, it is hard to find even a small niche of unspoiled land--forget searching for pristine islands or continents. This is the situation in Alex Garland's debut novel, The Beach. Human progress has reduced Eden to a secret little beach near Thailand. In the tradition of grand adventure novels, Richard, a rootless traveller rambling around Thailand on his way somewhere else, is given a hand-drawn map by a madman who calls himself Daffy Duck. He and two French travellers set out on a journey to find this paradise. What makes this a truly satisfying novel is the number of levels on which it operates. On the surface it's a fast-paced adventure novel; at another level it explores why we search for these utopias, be they mysterious lost continents or small island communes. Garland weaves a gripping and thought-provoking narrative that suggests we are, in fact, such products of our Western culture that we cannot help but pollute and ultimately destroy the very sanctuary we seek. --Amazon.com
Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
Some parts are autobiographical, 24 Sep 2007
"The Body" is a novella (shorter than a novel and longer than a short story), and was originally published as one of four novellas in the collection "Different Seasons" (1982). The book "Different Seasons" contains one story for each season, and "The Body" is subtitled "Fall from Innocence".
In "The Body" we are in the company of four 12-year-old boys who are very good friends. The leader of the group is Chris, a tough but smart guy from a down-and-out family with a drunken father. Chris is trying to break out of the destiny his background is forcing him into, and he's the real hero of the story.
Gordie is more the intellectual and sensitive type and is second in command in the group. Gordie tells the story in the first person and sounds very much like Stephen King's alter ego. (The adult Gordie, in writing the story, tells briefly how he has become a successful writer of horror books.)
The last two members of the group are Teddy, the wild one, and Vern, the cautious one. Neither Vern nor Teddy are leaders but they are each very unique and real boys, and almost as important to the story as Chris and Gordie.
Chris, Gordie, Teddy and Vern set out on an adventure, a "pilgrimage" to see the dead body of a boy from another town. Their trek stretches out over two days, much longer than they expected, and involves several unexpected encounters and dangerous situations.
What makes "The Body" such a wonderful story is the way we can relate to these four boys and their lives and the way they interact with each other. Stephen King does a fantastic job of writing about people in a way that makes them seem completely real and authentic. We think back to our own childhood and the struggles and the friendships and the pain of growing up. We nod in agreement to many of the things Stephen King tells us about what he has discovered as being the important things in life.
It is this honesty and insight into human nature that makes "The Body" such a good story.
The audio version of "The Body" lasts almost six hours and is read by Frank Muller, who does a great job. If you're not into audio books then it might be a better idea to buy "Different Seasons" as a printed book instead of "The Body", and get an additional three Stephen King novellas.
The movie "Stand By Me" (1986) is based on "The Body" and was directed by Rob Reiner. The movie follows the novella quite closely, although many minor things are changed / omitted / added as is always the case when a book is turned into a movie. The most important difference is that Gordie becomes the main character instead of Chris.
Included in the DVD version of "Stand By Me" is a 37-minute "featurette" with interviews with Stephen King, Rob Reiner and several of the actors (now all adult). Stephen King mentions that he thinks it's interesting that Rob Reiner made Gordie the main character, and that he had no objection to this change in emphasis between Gordie and Chris. Stephen King also confirms that much of "The Body" is autobiographical, in that he used several experiences from his own childhood in the story.
Highly recommended, both "The Body" and "Stand By Me".
Rennie Petersen
Brilliant!!, 20 Sep 2005
The book, Is better than the film in many ways, but also not as good! You don't really get the kindness of Chris & the dopeyness of Vern in the book, but you get alot more detail in other aspects. So, in cases like this, GET THEM BOTH!!
THE BODY, 14 Jul 2005
This story is the best stephen king book i have ever read. I had seen the film which was ace and i went out to buy the book which was even better! well worth reading and watching the film called stand by me!:)
Better than the film, 03 Oct 2003
I love Steven King's books they leave you on edge and you can get into the book straight away. This book tells of four young boys who go on an "adventure" to find the body of another young boy. Very excting it is better than the film, as the book gets straight to the point were as the film drags some of the "adventure" out.
The best King book, 16 Jun 2002
This is my absolute favourite Stephen King book of all time. Despite popular belief, King doesn't only write horror - he writes beautiful, meaningful stories like this too.
The style of writing and the insight into young boys' minds is wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I loved it.
Bear in mind, though, that this is adapted from the original "The Body" (from "Different Seasons"). This is the same story, simplified for schoolchildren.
Caution! Its been messed with., 13 Oct 2007
I originally ordered this book of amazon believing it to be the original Charles Dickens, unabridged and unmessed with. Unfortunately its not, its a simplified 'Beginners' version for children. As I have still not read the proper adult version I can't comment on the story, but if your wanting a childrens version this is well presented and cheap, if you don't want a kids version AVOID.
Why did I put off reading it for so long?, 26 Sep 2008
What an amazing book! I always put off reading it because it seemed rather stuffy, somehow - how wrong I was! It is a taut and brilliantly written novel, winding through different genres, exquisite symbolism and intricate complexities, into a fantastic and compelling story.
When a shy, poor young woman meets a rich widower in Monte Carlo, she falls in love with him and is astounded when he asks her to be his wife - the new Mrs de Winter. However, she soon realises that the previous Mrs de Winter's presence still hangs heavily over his life and home - the grand Manderley, set on du Maurier's beloved Cornish coast - and that the terrible secrets of their marriage will haunt them both until Rebecca takes her revenge from beyond the grave...
Full of vivid characters, naive hope, thrilling mystery, chilling despair, and descriptions that ring with pure poetry, there is no wonder that this book remains well loved through the generations.
Wonderfully sinister..., 01 Jul 2008
I first read this book as a teenager but remembered how, even then, I had appreciated the writing. And it was just as magical the second time around.
'Rebecca' is the tale of Maxim de Winter, his first wife Rebecca, his nameless second wife (and this is really intriguing - why DDM chose not to name her heroine is poignant in the extreme..) and Manderley - the house in which the tale is set. Narrated by the second wife and beginning at the end (a style I love anyway), we are led by the hand into the controlling World of Maxim and with a 'wing' to house each wife and the formidable housekeeper Mrs Danvers, you can see that such a fruitful cast of characters will make for great reading.
You are initially of the belief that the first wife drowned in an accident but soon, the plot thickens and darkens and the myriad twists and turns slowly draw you to a different conclusion. And the tale then really gets going. All is not quite what it seems. Creepy.
Far fetched, romantic, dreamy and dramatic - Rebecca is a must for readers of all ages...
Magical, 08 Jun 2008
I first read Rebecca when I was 12 and over the years, I believe I must have read it eight more times. Nothing can compare to the first reading of course, the spellbinding writing of Du Maurier is such that you enter the world she creates. you are not a witness you are absorbed into the story. This book reads like a dream, at times you enter a sort of trance ( a pleasurable one, have no fear)probably created by the rhythmic use of language and imagery.
If there are people around who haven't read it yet, you simply must.
You must share the story of that young woman who feels so inadequate, swept off her feet by this older, fascinating man, unable to fill the shoes of Lady of the manor, haunted by all she hears about the first wife, beautiful, accomplished and so much more than she herself will ever be. You must read about the fascinating Mrs Danvers, probably one of the finest characters ever drawn, the housekeeper, totally devoted to the memory of that first wife and who therefore resents the second or rather hates her so much she will try her best to crush her.
A timeless classic, a triumph... words can't do it justice.
Superb, 03 Jun 2008
I first read this spellbinding book about 25 years ago. I continue to read it every few years and still find it exciting, sad, scary in places and as dramatic as the first time. Unlike many others I am not a massive fan of the first chapter but, believe me, you are soon reeled in by the brilliance of the narrative. The story is ageless and I can't recommend it enough. I often get annoyed and find Mrs De Winter a bit spineless and Max de Winter a bit bossy and autocratic but Daphne du Maurier is such a good story teller that you gloss over her characters flaws and still find yourself caring about what happens to them. I often think it would be fascinating if we could have heard Rebecca's version of events written by du Maurier. Please give this book a go, it stays with you long after you have finished it.
Flawless!, 26 May 2008
There are so many great books out there but this is one of the best! Thrilling is the best word to describe this book buts not really enough! Every character is great and the story is among the best every written, if you've seen the film then you know how good it is but add an extra 20% of brilliance for the book! I want to meet Rebecca in the same way I want to meet Alexis Colby!
I loved it, 22 Jul 2005
No Longer at Ease is beautifully written book about colonialism and the alienating influence it has on those Africans who lose touch with their roots as they try to adapt to the changing times. I enjoyed this rich, challenging and fascinating story. The Usurper and Other Stories, The Village of waiting, Disciples of Fortune, Anthills of the Savannah, Triple Agent Double Cross are some of the other African titles I enjoyed.
"A journey on a downward spiral with the protagonist.", 14 May 2001
I've acquired a taste for Achebe and his ways, but this lesser known work is the one that I've enjoyed most. The author has come under criticism from feminists for the relegation of women in his novels, but for me he is describing a reality rather than making value judgements himself. Some of Achebe's literature is difficult for a twenty-first century Westerner to understand as it focuses so much on the traditional African ways of life, and perhaps this novel, set in the 1960's in the city of Lagos, is easier for us to comprehend. This book captured my full sympathies: it is easy to see the inevitability of corruption in the society Achebe is describing, and the reader is encouraged to journey on a downward spiral along with the protagonist. Thus the reader forms a bond with the youthful, intelligent and idealistic Obi and is left drenched with a sense of poignancy and anger.
Excellent Read, 12 Feb 2008
After the movie the book is a welcome pleasure to read. The obvious comparison to the Viewtnam war and the narrative on the delicate social structure that exists at the beach add to this well written book.
fantastic, 31 Dec 2007
This is a book i always wanted to read and i am really glad that i got round to it. The book is exciting from the first page and i couldn't put it down. The main character Richard is fantastic. He is confident and what i would describe as heroic but he did also make me uncomfortable with some of the decisions he makes. Saying all that Richard feels real and i love the adventure he goes on. The book doesn't bore you with unnessary description and gives you enough suspence that you cant stop turning the pages. I also loved the titles for the chapters. They didn't help me follow the story but each title had a poetical ring to it. or am i reading too much in to it? It is a fantastic read and couldn't recommend it highly enough.
Fab book!, 16 Dec 2007
The film is ok, but the book is excellent, well worth reading and very difficult to put down. A fairly light read and great if you don't like anything too heavy going.
Enjoyed it despite everything, 11 Dec 2007
Very mixed reviews about this book. It was defiantly unlike any other book I've read. There are many sub-plots that don't lead into anything and questions left in my mind at the end. It is also very descriptive, usually a complete turn off for me. Yet despite all this, I loved this book.
Although I'd seen the film I didn't realize there was much hype around the book itself (which by the way ends up a very different story to the film). Perhaps that is why I'm far less cynical about it than others who complain that it "won't tell you the meaning of life". Quite a lot to expect of a novel I think!
The author successfully puts you in Richard's shoes. I don't think this was meant to be a really deep novel, it's just brilliant escapism! Read it and see what it's like to be on a Thai beach paradise while you slowly go insane. Really well thought out, with brilliant characters.
A good read, 21 Sep 2007
I read this when I was 18 and thought that it was brilliant- however when I read it a few years later I found it weak in places. The overall story i good- paradise is turned into a 'dictatorship. There is paraells with Pol Pot- the year 0 and celebration of Tet are examples of this. I do think that it is a good read although a bit self absorbed and sub plots arent tied up- i.e romances and the 2 deaths.
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Customer Reviews
The classic story of three pets' dangerous journey home, 30 Dec 2005
The Incredible Journey tells the story of three animal companions – a young Labrador Retriever, an aging Bull Terrier, and a feisty Siamese cat – who embark on a dangerous journey home through the Canadian wilderness. They had been staying with a family friend while their real owners were temporarily residing in Europe, but they lit out for home on their own after their current keeper left for vacation. The plan was for the couple who took care of the house to look after the pets, but fate conspired to make them think Mr. Longridge had taken the animals with him. Thus, as the animals made their way west toward their old home, no one at all knew they were missing. Sheila Burnford's narrative is surprisingly realistic. Animals can't survive for weeks without food, and the only food available in the Canadian forests in early autumn is other animals. The cat is especially good at snaring warm snacks, and the Lab is capable of chasing something down from time to time – and luckily, both are willing to share with the old Bull Terrier whose age is catching up with him. It's a little sad to read about the demise of so many birds and rodents, but this book describes the animals' captures and kills rather straightforwardly. Of course, the trio also benefits from a few encounters with humans (although the Bull Terrier learns that his charms don't always win over the person on the other side of the door). These make for some emotional passages of their own, but the trio only stay in one place long enough to refresh and recover themselves. The woods hold many dangers, which the animals could never survive on their own. Indeed, each one of them suffers trials that threaten to end their journey altogether, and the friends are also separated at times. Whatever happens, though, the drive of the young Lab as he leads his friends ever westward toward his image of home overrides individual pains and fears. The commitment and bravery the animals show toward one another in the face of several very real threats is inspiring and heart-warming. If you love pets or animals in general, this is a really emotional story – not only the ending, but several sections throughout the whole book. The friendship and teamwork of these three very different animals is touching and wonderful to watch and experience. The Incredible Journey is nothing less than a classic that all animal lovers should have in their personal library.
Sheila Burnfords best yet, 26 May 2000
Sheila Burnford was very good at describing the thoughts of Luath the Labrador, Tao the Siamese Cat and Bodger the bull-terrier. When I read about the journeys of the three friends and how they were wounded it just broke my heart. All I'm trying to say is that this is a great book and you should read it.
Some parts are autobiographical, 24 Sep 2007
"The Body" is a novella (shorter than a novel and longer than a short story), and was originally published as one of four novellas in the collection "Different Seasons" (1982). The book "Different Seasons" contains one story for each season, and "The Body" is subtitled "Fall from Innocence".
In "The Body" we are in the company of four 12-year-old boys who are very good friends. The leader of the group is Chris, a tough but smart guy from a down-and-out family with a drunken father. Chris is trying to break out of the destiny his background is forcing him into, and he's the real hero of the story.
Gordie is more the intellectual and sensitive type and is second in command in the group. Gordie tells the story in the first person and sounds very much like Stephen King's alter ego. (The adult Gordie, in writing the story, tells briefly how he has become a successful writer of horror books.)
The last two members of the group are Teddy, the wild one, and Vern, the cautious one. Neither Vern nor Teddy are leaders but they are each very unique and real boys, and almost as important to the story as Chris and Gordie.
Chris, Gordie, Teddy and Vern set out on an adventure, a "pilgrimage" to see the dead body of a boy from another town. Their trek stretches out over two days, much longer than they expected, and involves several unexpected encounters and dangerous situations.
What makes "The Body" such a wonderful story is the way we can relate to these four boys and their lives and the way they interact with each other. Stephen King does a fantastic job of writing about people in a way that makes them seem completely real and authentic. We think back to our own childhood and the struggles and the friendships and the pain of growing up. We nod in agreement to many of the things Stephen King tells us about what he has discovered as being the important things in life.
It is this honesty and insight into human nature that makes "The Body" such a good story.
The audio version of "The Body" lasts almost six hours and is read by Frank Muller, who does a great job. If you're not into audio books then it might be a better idea to buy "Different Seasons" as a printed book instead of "The Body", and get an additional three Stephen King novellas.
The movie "Stand By Me" (1986) is based on "The Body" and was directed by Rob Reiner. The movie follows the novella quite closely, although many minor things are changed / omitted / added as is always the case when a book is turned into a movie. The most important difference is that Gordie becomes the main character instead of Chris.
Included in the DVD version of "Stand By Me" is a 37-minute "featurette" with interviews with Stephen King, Rob Reiner and several of the actors (now all adult). Stephen King mentions that he thinks it's interesting that Rob Reiner made Gordie the main character, and that he had no objection to this change in emphasis between Gordie and Chris. Stephen King also confirms that much of "The Body" is autobiographical, in that he used several experiences from his own childhood in the story.
Highly recommended, both "The Body" and "Stand By Me".
Rennie Petersen
Brilliant!!, 20 Sep 2005
The book, Is better than the film in many ways, but also not as good! You don't really get the kindness of Chris & the dopeyness of Vern in the book, but you get alot more detail in other aspects. So, in cases like this, GET THEM BOTH!!
THE BODY, 14 Jul 2005
This story is the best stephen king book i have ever read. I had seen the film which was ace and i went out to buy the book which was even better! well worth reading and watching the film called stand by me!:)
Better than the film, 03 Oct 2003
I love Steven King's books they leave you on edge and you can get into the book straight away. This book tells of four young boys who go on an "adventure" to find the body of another young boy. Very excting it is better than the film, as the book gets straight to the point were as the film drags some of the "adventure" out.
The best King book, 16 Jun 2002
This is my absolute favourite Stephen King book of all time. Despite popular belief, King doesn't only write horror - he writes beautiful, meaningful stories like this too.
The style of writing and the insight into young boys' minds is wonderful. I laughed, I cried, I loved it.
Bear in mind, though, that this is adapted from the original "The Body" (from "Different Seasons"). This is the same story, simplified for schoolchildren.
Caution! Its been messed with., 13 Oct 2007
I originally ordered this book of amazon believing it to be the original Charles Dickens, unabridged and unmessed with. Unfortunately its not, its a simplified 'Beginners' version for children. As I have still not read the proper adult version I can't comment on the story, but if your wanting a childrens version this is well presented and cheap, if you don't want a kids version AVOID.
Why did I put off reading it for so long?, 26 Sep 2008
What an amazing book! I always put off reading it because it seemed rather stuffy, somehow - how wrong I was! It is a taut and brilliantly written novel, winding through different genres, exquisite symbolism and intricate complexities, into a fantastic and compelling story.
When a shy, poor young woman meets a rich widower in Monte Carlo, she falls in love with him and is astounded when he asks her to be his wife - the new Mrs de Winter. However, she soon realises that the previous Mrs de Winter's presence still hangs heavily over his life and home - the grand Manderley, set on du Maurier's beloved Cornish coast - and that the terrible secrets of their marriage will haunt them both until Rebecca takes her revenge from beyond the grave...
Full of vivid characters, naive hope, thrilling mystery, chilling despair, and descriptions that ring with pure poetry, there is no wonder that this book remains well loved through the generations.
Wonderfully sinister..., 01 Jul 2008
I first read this book as a teenager but remembered how, even then, I had appreciated the writing. And it was just as magical the second time around.
'Rebecca' is the tale of Maxim de Winter, his first wife Rebecca, his nameless second wife (and this is really intriguing - why DDM chose not to name her heroine is poignant in the extreme..) and Manderley - the house in which the tale is set. Narrated by the second wife and beginning at the end (a style I love anyway), we are led by the hand into the controlling World of Maxim and with a 'wing' to house each wife and the formidable housekeeper Mrs Danvers, you can see that such a fruitful cast of characters will make for great reading.
You are initially of the belief that the first wife drowned in an accident but soon, the plot thickens and darkens and the myriad twists and turns slowly draw you to a different conclusion. And the tale then really gets going. All is not quite what it seems. Creepy.
Far fetched, romantic, dreamy and dramatic - Rebecca is a must for readers of all ages...
Magical, 08 Jun 2008
I first read Rebecca when I was 12 and over the years, I believe I must have read it eight more times. Nothing can compare to the first reading of course, the spellbinding writing of Du Maurier is such that you enter the world she creates. you are not a witness you are absorbed into the story. This book reads like a dream, at times you enter a sort of trance ( a pleasurable one, have no fear)probably created by the rhythmic use of language and imagery.
If there are people around who haven't read it yet, you simply must.
You must share the story of that young woman who feels so inadequate, swept off her feet by this older, fascinating man, unable to fill the shoes of Lady of the manor, haunted by all she hears about the first wife, beautiful, accomplished and so much more than she herself will ever be. You must read about the fascinating Mrs Danvers, probably one of the finest characters ever drawn, the housekeeper, totally devoted to the memory of that first wife and who therefore resents the second or rather hates her so much she will try her best to crush her.
A timeless classic, a triumph... words can't do it justice.
Superb, 03 Jun 2008
I first read this spellbinding book about 25 years ago. I continue to read it every few years and still find it exciting, sad, scary in places and as dramatic as the first time. Unlike many others I am not a massive fan of the first chapter but, believe me, you are soon reeled in by the brilliance of the narrative. The story is ageless and I can't recommend it enough. I often get annoyed and find Mrs De Winter a bit spineless and Max de Winter a bit bossy and autocratic but Daphne du Maurier is such a good story teller that you gloss over her characters flaws and still find yourself caring about what happens to them. I often think it would be fascinating if we could have heard Rebecca's version of events written by du Maurier. Please give this book a go, it stays with you long after you have finished it.
Flawless!, 26 May 2008
There are so many great books out there but this is one of the best! Thrilling is the best word to describe this book buts not really enough! Every character is great and the story is among the best every written, if you've seen the film then you know how good it is but add an extra 20% of brilliance for the book! I want to meet Rebecca in the same way I want to meet Alexis Colby!
I loved it, 22 Jul 2005
No Longer at Ease is beautifully written book about colonialism and the alienating influence it has on those Africans who lose touch with their roots as they try to adapt to the changing times. I enjoyed this rich, challenging and fascinating story. The Usurper and Other Stories, The Village of waiting, Disciples of Fortune, Anthills of the Savannah, Triple Agent Double Cross are some of the other African titles I enjoyed.
"A journey on a downward spiral with the protagonist.", 14 May 2001
I've acquired a taste for Achebe and his ways, but this lesser known work is the one that I've enjoyed most. The author has come under criticism from feminists for the relegation of women in his novels, but for me he is describing a reality rather than making value judgements himself. Some of Achebe's literature is difficult for a twenty-first century Westerner to understand as it focuses so much on the traditional African ways of life, and perhaps this novel, set in the 1960's in the city of Lagos, is easier for us to comprehend. This book captured my full sympathies: it is easy to see the inevitability of corruption in the society Achebe is describing, and the reader is encouraged to journey on a downward spiral along with the protagonist. Thus the reader forms a bond with the youthful, intelligent and idealistic Obi and is left drenched with a sense of poignancy and anger.
Excellent Read, 12 Feb 2008
After the movie the book is a welcome pleasure to read. The obvious comparison to the Viewtnam war and the narrative on the delicate social structure that exists at the beach add to this well written book.
fantastic, 31 Dec 2007
This is a book i always wanted to read and i am really glad that i got round to it. The book is exciting from the first page and i couldn't put it down. The main character Richard is fantastic. He is confident and what i would describe as heroic but he did also make me uncomfortable with some of the decisions he makes. Saying all that Richard feels real and i love the adventure he goes on. The book doesn't bore you with unnessary description and gives you enough suspence that you cant stop turning the pages. I also loved the titles for the chapters. They didn't help me follow the story but each title had a poetical ring to it. or am i reading too much in to it? It is a fantastic read and couldn't recommend it highly enough.
Fab book!, 16 Dec 2007
The film is ok, but the book is excellent, well worth reading and very difficult to put down. A fairly light read and great if you don't like anything too heavy going.
Enjoyed it despite everything, 11 Dec 2007
Very mixed reviews about this book. It was defiantly unlike any other book I've read. There are many sub-plots that don't lead into anything and questions left in my mind at the end. It is also very descriptive, usually a complete turn off for me. Yet despite all this, I loved this book.
Although I'd seen the film I didn't realize there was much hype around the book itself (which by the way ends up a very different story to the film). Perhaps that is why I'm far less cynical about it than others who complain that it "won't tell you the meaning of life". Quite a lot to expect of a novel I think!
The author successfully puts you in Richard's shoes. I don't think this was meant to be a really deep novel, it's just brilliant escapism! Read it and see what it's like to be on a Thai beach paradise while you slowly go insane. Really well thought out, with brilliant characters.
A good read, 21 Sep 2007
I read this when I was 18 and thought that it was brilliant- however when I read it a few years later I found it weak in places. The overall story i good- paradise is turned into a 'dictatorship. There is paraells with Pol Pot- the year 0 and celebration of Tet are examples of this. I do think that it is a good read although a bit self absorbed and sub plots arent tied up- i.e romances and the 2 deaths.
what's your problem?, 18 Jan 2006
this book was a bit short but it was very interesting. it is sad and makes you angry when you are reading it because of the different types of racial discrimination that jas and his family receive. i think that people who are predjudiced against different races should read this book because it is written from jas' point of view and shows how it feels to be in that position. i also think that people aged 12 upwards should read this book.
Be Proud!, 18 Jan 2006
I thought that the book was great, but it could have been longer. It reminds people that racism is still going on and to be aware of it. It's basically about a boy called Jas who moves from Leicester to a place near Nottingham. They are faced with rascist comments and threats to leave. It's for 13+ years of age.
OK/ish, 23 Oct 2003
Bali Rai visited our school(King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys) and gave a full description of the books himself. My feeling was that this book was going to be very boring, so I got it out of the library to see for myself. I find it slightly enjoyable to read (Although it only took me half an hour!). It could have also gone on for slightly longer. I did feel for the characters occasionaly, but not really. I do like the idea of this Barrington Stoke business though, (Helping children to read). Overall, OKish...
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