Book Reviews

Browse our extensive archive, to find a great match for your next book club meeting!

A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life Cover
Rating: 3.8/5

A Swim in a Pond in the Rain Review

George Saunders’ 'Liberation Day' delivers humor blended with sharp insights. Saunders uses quirky tales, and playful storytelling. He dives into humanity’s oddities. Some tales confuse, but most entertain. Charming yet challenging.

High Fidelity Cover
Rating: 3.5/5

High Fidelity Review

Nick Hornby writes with humor and insight. His characters face life's ups and downs with wit. Sometimes slow, but overall a delightful read. Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of comedy and heartfelt moments.

House of Leaves cover
Rating: 4/5

House of Leaves Review

"House of Leaves" offers a wild ride through its twisty narrative and crazy typography. It's like a puzzle and a ghost story had a book baby. Some might find it tough to follow, but it's worth the brain workout.

The Joy Luck Club: A Novel Cover
Rating: 4.5/5

The Joy Luck Club Review

Joy Luck Club highlights mother-daughter tales with cultural twists, leaving me nostalgic for my own family stories. A touching read with humor, but sometimes complex in narrative shifts.

The Talented Mr. Ripley cover
Rating: 4.3/5

The Talented Mr. Ripley Review

Highsmith's storytelling hooks you with suspense and twists. Characters are intriguing but sometimes lack depth. Settings are vivid, pulling you in. Despite a few flaws, her books are a great read for thriller enthusiasts.

The Painted Bird Cover
Rating: 4/5

The Painted Bird Review

The Painted Bird is a wild ride through war-torn lands. It's intense, gripping, and at times, brutal. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions. I recommend hot cocoa and a cozy blanket for recovery. Proceed with caution!

On Chesil Beach Cover
Rating: 4.3/5

On Chesil Beach Review

Ian McEwan's 'On Chesil Beach' captures the awkwardness of love entangled with societal norms. Complex characters journey through tension and emotional landscapes, making it a profound, albeit slow, read.

A Series of Unfortunate Events Lemony Snicket 13 Books Collection Pack Set (Includes the Bad Beginning, the Reptile Room, the Wide Window, the Miserable Mill, the Austere Academy, the Grim Grotto, the Penultimate Peril, the End) Cover
Rating: 3.8/5

A Series of Unfortunate Events Review

Lemony Snicket entertains with quirky narration and memorable characters. Dark humor mixes with mystery, creating an engaging tale. Illustrations add charm, but can sometimes pull attention away from the text. Great for readers who love a bit of both!

Somehow: Thoughts on Love Cover
Rating: 4/5

Somehow Review

Anne Lamott's book offers humor, insight, and honest reflections. Her witty style makes it a fun read, but sometimes it feels a bit chatty. Overall, it's a relatable and enjoyable exploration of life's ups and downs.