Rating: Summary: Unforgetable Characters Review: I loved this book! The story, written through the eyes of four daughters and their unbelievable times growing up in the Congo, was entertaining, thought provoking and quite an adventure! Although the author did get a little caught up in her own political agenda in the second half, the story still remained interesting and left the reader anxious to see what was going to happen next to these amazing characters! I loved the writing, loved the characters, and was caught up in the troubled history and story of the Congo. It was a great read; when I hear a story about Africa in the future, I will surely think of this book!
Rating: Summary: Well worth the time and effort! Review: While this book was a hard starter,(it took nearly 140 pages until I seriously cared what came next) I have to say it is definitely worth it. The story of a missionary family going to the Congo during a turbulent period in history was extremely interesting. One of the fascinating aspects to the whole story is that it makes you look at "wants and needs" in life with a completely different perspective from each character in the novel, and then in one's own life. It takes you into the lives of the native Congolese people in a small village,their everyday needs and how they view the missionary families. Each of the characters has such a different perspective on what is going on, it is like piecing a puzzle together, and ending up with a picture that wasn't like the one on the box. Very interesting,very compelling. Not a quick read obviously, but very well worth your time.
Rating: Summary: A disappointment Review: As a long-time Barbara Kingsolver fan, I looked forward to this new release. I was sorely disappointed. I could put this book down, I did put this book down. I got about a third of the way through and decided that no matter the loyalty to the author, I just couldn't wade through it.Maybe she should just stick to what she knows.
Rating: Summary: Thoroughly Engrossing Review: An excellent study of a patriarch and his family as strangers in a strange land. If you know little of Africa in the early sixties, I highly recommend you read this novel. It's not a historical book, but it sheds light on a part of the world that we Americans don't spend enough time thinking about. I thought the narrative was excellent, particularly the character of Adah. She's one of the finest literary creations in a long time. As a whole, the novel doesn't let down although personally I wish the author would've either pared down the rush to cover almost 30 years' history towards the end or elaborated a little more thoroughly (especially in regards to Nathan). But don't let that stop you from experiencing a great American novel. It lingers on in your memory long after you've put it down.
Rating: Summary: POISONWOOD BIBLE Review: WHY DOES THIS BOOOK ONLY RATE 4 STARS? IT'S MOST CERTAINLY A FIVE STAR READ.I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN. AS A WOMAN OF A CERTAIN AGE THIS ERA IS SO FAMILIAR TO ME, ALTHOUGH AFRICA, SADLY WAS NOT. THE AUTHOR BRINGS NOT ONLY THE CONGO TO LIFE BUT THE LIVES OF ALL THE WOMEN INVOLVED. THE ENDING COULDN'T HAVE BEEN BETTERED. I'M SENDING THE AUDIOCASSETTE TO MY 91 YEAR OLD MOTHER WHOM I KNOW WILL BE AS ENTHUSED AS I AM. NEEDLESS TO SAY I'VE RECOMMENDED IT TO ALL MY FRIENDS.
Rating: Summary: Awesome & Unforgettable Review: A clever look at language and cultures. Compelling and truly believable with unforgettable characters. Kingsolver's imagery transports the reader to another world deep in the Congo where a family is forever changed by their experience. This book was our Book Group's first selection and was unanimously rated a 5 by all members. I was so pleased that Oprah selected this book as it is an unforgettable read!
Rating: Summary: A Fantastic Novel Review: I have always been a big fan of Barbara Kingsolver, so I was thrilled to see a new novel come out. The Poisonwood Bible, however, is quite a departure from her earlier novels in that it blew me away. It really is incredible. The story is very interesting, but it is the telling that makes this book so special. Kingsolver tells the story through five different narrators with five distinct voices and personalities. Sometimes the narration can transform what would otherwise be a dull scene into a hilarious story. The Poisonwood Bible is the story of the Price family, a missionary, his wife and their four daughters as they travel to Africa. The story is fascinating and its affects on each member of the family are completely life changing. None will be the same when the book is over and we are the richer for having read this novel. I highly, highly recommend this novel. It is perhaps the best one Oprah has picked and is far, far superior to her normal selections.
Rating: Summary: A great read Review: An excellent book - highly recommend it. It has an unusual flavour that keeps the pages turning.
Rating: Summary: extraordinary Review: The Poisonwood Bible is the most captivating book I've read all year. Kingsolver makes you fall in love with her characters, who are so lifelike that you know the intricate details of their personalities. It is an impressive work, and it is brilliantly and intelligently written. I could not put it down until I finished it, and then I was sad it was over.
Rating: Summary: Worst Book I have ever read. Review: This book is nothing short of a literary disastor. The story is dull and confusing. The characters are all stale and over used. I had to force myself to finish each chapter so I could celebrate never reading it agian. If you have not read this book save yourself the time and money and DON'T.
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