Rating: Summary: Not a Completely Unrealistic Portrayal Review: Lured in by the catchy title and the humorous picture on the book jacket, it took only a few chapters to get involved in the book's characters despite the fact the subplot(s) were occasionally weak. (I confess I stayed up rather late several nights in a row to finish the book.)The portrayal of Andrea's coworkers is perhaps the most disturbing because it's true to everyday life in New York City. This book excellently depicts the harsh, backstabbing environment found in every office of The City, whether it be in publishing, public relations, or brokering. The heinous editor character, Miranda Priestly, isn't as much an exaggeration as most people would hope; it's the self-important attitude exhibited by an entire class of spoiled rich people weekending in the Hamptons. It may, however, seem a little excessive to people who don't have to witness spoiled adults throwing temper tantrums on a daily basis. The subplot(s) of the story do little to move the reader, other than to emphasize the superhuman expectations of Andrea's boss and the tolls that meeting these expectations (or trying to meet them) takes upon her relationships. The inevitable confrontation is but a brief victory, leaving the reader wondering, "That's it? Is there more? Is she sure that's all?" However, unlike the Nanny Diaries, the ending is somewhat satisfying for those of us seeking revenge for all injustices. This book seems more about a journey toward self-discovery (and just how much garbage one person can and will put up with) than it is about airing dirty laundry. Sure, it's obviously written in the spirit of revenge but not to the point of being libelous. It should be required reading for anyone planning to move to and seek employment in New York City, for the atmosphere of said city was accurately captured.
Rating: Summary: Very Enjoyable Review: Regardless of the mixed reviews of this book, I found "The Devil Wears Prada" to be a fun read. This book is probably better suited for a real "girly" girl who appreciates high fashion. I probably could have done without the best friend character, but overall, I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading Lauren's next book.
Rating: Summary: I enjoyed it Review: People, HELLO, this author was about 22 when she wrote this book. You can't expect a flawless masterpiece from someone right out of college. But she did have a story to tell! I thought she had balls for writing it....."beady eyes"? "harsh hair"? Total guts.
Rating: Summary: Not Great but Entertaining! Review: There was something about this book that just kept me coming back for more. It is by far not a "good" book, but it made me want to read it. Maybe it was the unbelievable antics that took place. I couldn't help but think about a friend of mine who has a daughter fresh out of college heading to New York as an intern with Marc Jacobs. I hope her world is better than Ahn - dre - ah's.
Rating: Summary: An Insult to My Intelligence Review: I am still trying to figure out how a book with no plot can be on the bestseller list. This was the most ridiculous book I have read in years. Weisberger repeated banal details so often that I have to wonder if she thinks her readers are brain dead. This sophomoric attempt at a book should have been significantly altered during the editing process. Someone should tell Ms. Weisberger that in order to write a book, you must have an idea for a plot. Shallow characters living in New York do not constitute a storyline. I felt that this was an incredibly poor attempt to copy the book, The Nanny Diaries. As a busy professional, I felt that this was a waste of valuable time. The only reason I bothered to finish reading this horrific book was due to the fact that my book club had chosen to read it. I warn all book clubs and individuals considering this book to stay away.
Rating: Summary: Fun book Review: I really liked this book. It was a fun read with a great ending.
Rating: Summary: The only cute part is the title!! Review: You'd THINK that a novel about being a personal assistant to the world's most prominent fashion editor would be dishy, fascinating, and fun - but it's not. This novel is dull as dirt. Much has been made of the fact that author Lauren Weisberger used to work at Vogue magazine for editor Anna Wintour, and that this first novel is likely based on true life experiences. Perhaps that's true, but in this case, real life does not prove to be more interesting than fantasy. The details of her everyday routine and work demands, no matter how bizarre, simply are not that interesting. The most suspense-filled pages relate Andrea's (the main character) need to deliver a piping hot latte from Starbucks back to her boss's office. Will the coffee still be hot when she gets there? Pul-lease...who cares... Weisberger tries to paint Andrea as a young woman more interested in working for the "New Yorker" magazine than a frivolous fashion mag. Yet editorial oversights make it unbelievable that Andrea (or Lauren?) truly has that kind of literary talent. (For example: breast implants were made of silicone, not silicon; basil is an herb, not a spice.) Yeah, maybe I'm picking nits, but these errors really cut into my respect for this book. The premise is interesting, the title is cute, and there are a few gossipy details inside the pages. But this book is simply not living up to the hype. I can only hope that Weisberger has used this book to achieve a catharsis of her pent up frustrations and anger, and that her next publication will be of a higher caliber.
Rating: Summary: Fun Fun Fun Review: Well I just finished reading this book and completely enjoyed it! I was shocked to see all of the terrible write ups. I am a 30 something, avid reader from NY. This is not Shakespeare, nor was it meant to be. If you liked Sex In The City and The Nanny Diaries- you will love this book. Happy reading!!!!
Rating: Summary: Another Great Beach Read... Review: Or a great camping read as was the case here. Ms. Weisberger captures the essence of sheer horror clothed in the guise of Miranda Priestly. One wonders, as Ms. Weisberger did work for the top fashion magazine, are the editors and employees of such publications that brazen, cut-throat and cruel? How much of this is based on her personal interactions at Vogue? At one time or another, most of us have encountered a boss that reveals some aspect of the devil incarnate in his/her management style. As one reads, one cannot help but think of ways to retaliate on the character of Ms. Priestly and that makes reading this book fun. It is great entertainment, not rocket science. Enjoy.
Rating: Summary: Loved it. Review: A fun escape. Not overhyped fluff by any stretch of the imagination.
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