Friends, you know that I love word-smithing. Any book without it better have a SMASHING plot, characters AND message.
The latest book club choice was Loving Frank. I can't go into much detail about it, because the ending is truly blind-siding and if you intend to read it, knowing the end will completely side-track you from actually going chapter by chapter.
Or, indeed, even reading the book.
Because the thing is, no lovely turns of phrase. No definitive voice, no soaring metaphor.
The story and the characters are "ripped from the headlines" - in some cases directly- but unfortunately, the setting and the characters are two-dimensional at best. I just couldn't empathize with the protagonists, in spite of their undeniable courage and talents.
I rated this book, not that anyone bothered to ask my opinion at the book club, a 2.5. "Tell a friend" (3) that it "Needs a boost" (2)
Like the last book, the writing itself is unworthy, but the TRUE STORY can keep you googling for hours. Maybe even days.
What do you think?
2 comments:
I TOLD YOU!!!
When I read the ending I had to get OUT of bed, go down to the computer and research whether it was true, since I couldn't believe it was.
I'd agree with the 2.5-- loved the story, loved that it amazed me so. And loved that you finally read it! :-)
You are right. When I think about it, I was fascinated with the true story and not necessarily the book.
Liz
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