Bel Canto: A Novel

Rating:
Summary: Quick, Simple Read
Review: This book is very elegantly and eloquently written. As beautiful as the words are used in this book, I somehow failed to develop an emotional attachment to the characters. I read this book in 4 days, and was unfortunately tired of reading it and was not disappointed when it was done. I was not enthralled by this book. I must say though, I truly appreciate the author's fluid use of words and let the words flow through me as I read it, but honestly, after reading all of the reviews on the book jacket of this book, I was disappointed that as an avid reader of quality literature, I did not find this book to be as good as the many reviews.

Rating:
Summary: A Compelling Read
Review: Ann Patchett has an amazing way with words - she sculpts characters that are more than 3 dimensional. This is a love story, but is it romantic love, love of life, love of art? All three, I think. I didn't get swept up into this book quite as much as the Magician's Assistant, but I still recommend it. It is a very unique story, with totally lovable characters. I missed them when I was done reading the book! Enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: A beautiful, enthralling read
Review: Bel Canto is a beautiful fable, a story of the powers of art and love over the powers of evil and hatred. This book is far from realistic, but that doesn't detract from its beauty. Roxane Coss is a gifted chanteuse who travels to a nameless South American country to sing at a Japanese businessman's birthday party. No one had imagined that terrorists would take over the event. But the terrorists' target -- the unidentified country's president -- isn't there. Some prisoners are freed, but various people remain, including the singer and the businessman. There are various disarming twists in the novel. This is a unique story of terror, political wars, love and art. The novel's language enthralled me from beginning to end. Despite its unrealistic plot, Bel Canto is a beautiful and magical read that endures.

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.