Rating: 
Summary: This is an AMAZING end to a classic saga
Review: I reread this series every couple of years just for its stunning dialoge and the way it draws me in. These Tales are darker and reflect the beginning of AIDS. They are rich and wonderful. Its easy to see why they are number one bestellers around the word. The make me laugh and cry each time I reread them. Those who don't like them must have a problem with the more serious t one. The times called for it. I lost so many friends to AIDS and I for one am glad maupin didn't shy away from includeing. THIS IS A MUST READ!
Rating:
Summary: cant put them down!
Review: I was introduced to this series by the mini-series on Showtime. Without realizing it, a friend had given me 28 Barbary Lane and so I read it while waiting for each new episode on TV. I read the first three novels in 2 days, went to the library and found the next two. I am still looking for the last one, desparately. I cried so many times, especially for Michael because I could relate to his hardships. In fact, it is hard not to relate to any of the characters because they seem all too real. For those who truly enjoy Maupin, check out Maybe the Moon to find out the fates of some of the Barbary Lane characters. Thankx Mr. Maupin!!
Rating:
Summary: Excellent Set of books - required reading for all
Review: Once I read the first book I knew that I would have to read the whole set as soon as possible - they are my favourite books of all time - the writing, characters are so real - you feel that you are living there with them in Barbary Lane. The books have the ability to take you through the whole spectrum of human emotions and you actually care about the characters and what happens to them and how they will end up. It doesn't matter if you are gay or straight these books would appeal to all. The effect on me of these books were profound - they set me on a journey of self discovery and a love of reading - they will do that for any of their future readers.
Rating: 
Summary: I speak the truth
Review: Please, listen to me. Exit this page. Don't push that add to cart button. Trust me, please, you don't want this book. It's terrible!I know, I know. You loved the first three Tales of the City books. I did too. And you have to know what's become of Maryann and Brian and Michael and Mrs. Madrigal. I understand, I thought I did too. But you won't like it, I promise you. So the seventies are over and Armistaud Maupin felt the need to deconstruct his beloved characters to prepare them for the 80's. Well, that's understandable. But why he had to do so in such a vicious manner, I'll never know. All right. You're not convinced. Well, maybe it's okay to read book four, Babycakes. After all, it's got some excitement between Brian and Maryann and some mystery surrounding Mona. Even though Michael is really depressed after Jon's death, he's still Michael. If you have to, Babycakes is okay. But this book is a compilation, and if you buy it, you'll have to read the fifth and sixth book. Honestly, I really do promise you, you don't want to do that! So you're determined. Fine. At least check them out of the library then, so you can shudder and return them and never look at them again. And if you do choose to buy this book, it's your prerogative, but please don't say I didn't warn you.
Rating:
Summary: I speak the truth
Review: Please, listen to me. Exit this page. Don't push that add to cart button. Trust me, please, you don't want this book. It's terrible! I know, I know. You loved the first three Tales of the City books. I did too. And you have to know what's become of Maryann and Brian and Michael and Mrs. Madrigal. I understand, I thought I did too. But you won't like it, I promise you. So the seventies are over and Armistaud Maupin felt the need to deconstruct his beloved characters to prepare them for the 80's. Well, that's understandable. But why he had to do so in such a vicious manner, I'll never know. All right. You're not convinced. Well, maybe it's okay to read book four, Babycakes. After all, it's got some excitement between Brian and Maryann and some mystery surrounding Mona. Even though Michael is really depressed after Jon's death, he's still Michael. If you have to, Babycakes is okay. But this book is a compilation, and if you buy it, you'll have to read the fifth and sixth book. Honestly, I really do promise you, you don't want to do that! So you're determined. Fine. At least check them out of the library then, so you can shudder and return them and never look at them again. And if you do choose to buy this book, it's your prerogative, but please don't say I didn't warn you.
Rating: 
Summary: More realistic than the first three.
Review: The second three of the Barbary Lane series are darker and more realistic than their predecessors. AIDS has begun to take its toll on some of the characters, relationships are severed, and the lighthearted quality that marked the writing is now more serious and contemplative. These tales are enjoyable, but probably less so if you are expecting more of what you got from the first three. I found it a little disturbing that Maupin could not concede Mona's increasing skittishness and unreliability were caused by drug addiction rather than an innate character trait. This led me to believe that the author was perhaps not fully aware of his creation, that he recorded his own experiences without really analyzing them. Considering the generally light nature of this work -- this in spite of my previous comments, is still light, nay, lite fare -- it's to be expected the subjects touched upon are never fully explored. Not nearly as many warm fuzzies as the first three, but still worth reading.
Rating:
Summary: More realistic than the first three.
Review: The second three of the Barbary Lane series are darker and more realistic than their predecessors. AIDS has begun to take its toll on some of the characters, relationships are severed, and the lighthearted quality that marked the writing is now more serious and contemplative. These tales are enjoyable, but probably less so if you are expecting more of what you got from the first three. I found it a little disturbing that Maupin could not concede Mona's increasing skittishness and unreliability were caused by drug addiction rather than an innate character trait. This led me to believe that the author was perhaps not fully aware of his creation, that he recorded his own experiences without really analyzing them. Considering the generally light nature of this work -- this in spite of my previous comments, is still light, nay, lite fare -- it's to be expected the subjects touched upon are never fully explored. Not nearly as many warm fuzzies as the first three, but still worth reading.
Rating:
Summary: These are possibly some of the best books I have ever read!
Review: These are possibly the best books I have ever read!!!!!He writes so easily and his characters are so lovable. These books- I wanted to go on forever. I do hope he writes more in the series.
I want more of Micheal, Mrs. Madrigal, Mona,
Mary Ann, Brian, Prue, Dee Dee, et al. And I
want them all made into a mini series as soon
as possible. These books are a must for gays
and straights alike!!!!!!You will not be disappointed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rating:
Summary: My New Best Friends
Review: These books, these masterpieces of words, feelings, and emotions. . .Do you enjoy getting angry, laughing, and feeling enobled all at the same time? Read these novels. After V.1 (Tales), you begin to know the characters-maybe even like them (Especially Mouse). By V.2 (More) these people become part of you-you begin to envision being part of the converstation-the proverbial fly on the wall. By the last, I wanted to take Michael in a basket and bring him home with me. Please read these novels, you gain a new understanding of the indulgent 70s and the 80s-the decade we paid for all that indulgence. Thank you Mr. Maupin!
Rating:
Summary: Great!
Review: To find all of the Tales of the City books inside two large volumes is a true treasure trove! I can't tell you how many days I appeared in my office with dark circles under my eyes from too many nights up late trying to escape the hypnotic spell of these wonderful stories.
| 
