Shopgirl: A Novella

Rating:
Summary: Bland Shopgirl in a Bland Novella
Review: I bought "Shopgirl" because I really really like Martin's other Novella "The Pleasure of My Company". I found Shopgirl to be mediocre compared to the other book, and it just kind of left me feeling "eh!" I like Martin's style, his witty humor, and his observations about daily life, but the ending left a lot to be desired. There was such a build-up to what would ultimately come of Ray and Mirabelle's relationship, and the resolution is thrown into 5 or 6 pages. I would have liked to know more.

If you're thinking about getting "Shopgirl", opt for "The Pleasure of My Company" instead.


Rating:
Summary: A Pleasant Surprise
Review: This book surprised me a little. It was actually a little more enjoyable for me than a better-regarded novel (The Feast of Love) I recently finished as well. Martin's writing is a sort of large vocabulary minimalism. It's underwritten if anything--a pleasant contrast to Baxter's blatant overwriting. And, while it may not be nearly as polished as Baxter's book, it is far more earnest. You can tell Martin isn't trying to impress anyone; he's just writing. That carries weight with me. That said, I probably won't pick up another book of his on my own, I may try him again if something is strongly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: Witty and Thoughtful
Review: Steve Martin is witty and poignant is his novella "Shopgirl". In an era of casual sex and superficiality, Martin sketches an accurate portrait of life. This not meant to omit the greatest quality of the book, it is funny. There were several points where I found myself laughing out loud at the verbal jabs of Martin.

Mirabelle is searching for a lot of things, she is kind of a mess. As dull as she is, Jeremy is Neanderthalic in comparison. Tiring of Jeremy, Mirabelle sees Ray walk into her life purely by chance. While Ray is wealthy, he lack the maturity to love. Adding another dimension to Mirabelle's conflict is Lisa who uses sex as a recreational sport. As the story continues, the characters mature and make decision based on their experiences. The choice Mirabelle makes will surprise some readers. Even more entertaining is the humorous fate of Lisa, who we love to hate because we know somebody like her.

Martin's ventures into fiction are by far better than his comedy books. They show his tact and ability to manipulate words and scenarios in the right context. It is a great read for those just discovering the real world outside of college and people of that general age group. What is generally funny is not far from the truth. "Shopgirl" does not stray far from reality while maintaining great wit.

Rating:
Summary: He knows women and he's insightful
Review: Steve Martin also knows the male mind. Or a certain kind of male mind. The kind of male mind that lusts after Mirabelle Buttersfield, the Shopgirl of the title. You'll never just walk by a department store glove counter again dreading making conversation with the salesgirl. She could be you. As lonely as you. Looking for a man who won't betray her. And it's a sure bet you're nicer than cosmetics counter "crimson Marilyn" Lisa, who is fast approaching the age "where she will have to actually know something in order for people to listen to her."

One of our gifted comedic and often serious (THE SPANISH PRISONER, JOE GOULD'S SECRET--he's unbilled) actors as well as a versatile writer, Steve Martin creates a character you root for and wish to see on top of the world instead of lying in bed depressed. He's never patronizing about her depression. Or about her. He sees her flaws and all. You get the feeling Steve Martin might have dated someone just like Mirabelle. Mirabelle's two Romeos, seeming loser Jeremy and too-suave-for-himself Ray Porter, emerge as people rather than just male cads. This is a terrific read.

Rating:
Summary: Love this book!
Review: I read this book a few years ago. Back then I wasn't much of a reader at all. I picked this book up at an airport book store and could not put it down. I read the entire book in a day and a half. Then started reading it again. I highly recommend it, great book!