Bel Canto

Rating:
Summary: Elements of humanity
Review: This book was a gift from a friend because of my love of opera. Though the book contained the character of an opera singer, the elements of humanity in this day of terrorism and its influence in our world were brought into focus through the characters of those who sought to bring about a difference to the world in which we live. Opportunities to bond with people in desperate circumstances, to understand the talent and ability of people who have never had opportunity; this is the fiber that brings meaning to this story, even when you understand that there can be no alternative end. The writing style is uncomplicated, allowing your imagination to paint the images suggested within the pages. A good read with some thought provoking ideas. Not too complex.

Rating:
Summary: A modern classic
Review: Patchett delivers magical, beautiful writing with fascinating characters and wonderful details. Simply the best new book I've read in several years.

Rating:
Summary: A beautiful read, a troubling ending
Review: This is a spectacular book that questions how we learn to communicate with one another when the only common language is music. It's extremely well-developed. My only problem with this book was the epilogue. I was so moved by the entire book, but found myself shouting "WHAT?" on the very last page. Still, I would highly recommend this to anyone who is a fan of literature or music.

Rating:
Summary: Good but we knew what was going to happen
Review: The moment the relationships started up between hostages and terrorists, sadly, the end of this otherwise lovely book was clear. There is only one possible conclusion to this kind of book, and thus for me, reading it was simply a waiting game for the inevitable conclusion. I did like the premise, and the writing style, and the characters, but in the end it was all a little too unbelievable and predictable.

Rating:
Summary: thought it would never end
Review: I was really looking forward to reading this novel because of the excellent reviews and from a recommendation, but I have to admit I was very disappointed. It was boring, very slow and I couldn't get into it. I didn't care much for the characters and their love of opera. It would not end!

Rating:
Summary: a beautiful fantasy
Review: Anyone who criticizes this book for not being "realistic" or that it doesn't have any action completely missed the point. This is a fantasy whose purpose seems to be to create a picture of what peace would look like...metaphorically. Instead of boring details about how the negotiations are going (which we hear about in the real world every five minutes on the news), Ann Patchett paints an imaginary picture of what might happen if people let their humanity, rather than their political agenda, dictate their actions. I was enthralled with every character from beginning to end. Did I once care whether any of it could actually happen? No. This book was such a relief from the nonstop barrage of "reality" we've been forced to swallow lately. But there was truth here that went far beyond the limits of "reality." By the end of the book I loved all the characters because Ann Patchett truly understands the human soul and she depicted it with stunning clarity. Engage your ability to imagine, and read this book.

Rating:
Summary: Dreamlike and engrossing
Review: I certainly enjoyed Bel Canto from the very beginning. Only, the epilogue was like "WHAT?!" With eloquent language, Patchett slowly draws you into the story of international guests at a dinner party taken hostage.You can see straight into the minds of the main characters,which include an opera singer, a translator,and terrorists.

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful read
Review: This book is beautifully written. It is not for those who favor murder mysteries or coutroom dramas. It is a gem to be savored by the literary reader, the characters are realistic and vivid, the prose poetic. Do yourself a favor and read this book.

Rating:
Summary: A Great Story Line, Not enough action
Review: The story is interesting but it seems to drag on too long without enough action. This is book I would recommend as an average book.

Rating:
Summary: Bel Canto
Review: I was intrigued by the theme. But I found the reading difficult,
there seemed to be way too many words to keep the plot moving along. The characters were well developed, but it was hard to follow just what the author was trying to communicate. I liked the use of multi-cultural characters. I liked the metamorphing of individuals, and the relationship between music and love and the universality of those concepts. But it was a struggle for me to finish reading the book...it simply didn't move along well, not a page turner.