Gwen

I appreciated this book so much that I have bought a copy for my 20 closest friends to read. The story is rich and Tom Rachman, for my money, has a pin point perspective. My only criticism is that through this tome it seems that he/ or his view is misogynistic. However, I don't really care what his psychosis is or isn't about women. This story is amazing. As you read (or listen in this case) you find yourself encased in the world of newsprint and the lifestyle of an expat in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. The story, characters, scenes and psycology are without fault. If you miss this, you'll be the worse for it.

Kids with cancer...
I've never hated myself more or felt more blessed. Superbly written. Outstanding narration. Story? Again, kids with cancer.

I love this book! So much so in fact, I've added it to my library (A real library with these things called books, with paper pages and such - revolutionary!). The narration was excellent the story was fast paced and exciting but the most amazing thing is that it still kept the Jane Austen style which only added to the wit, humor and charm of this delightful read. I cheated on book club with this one, in fact. They wanted to read the new JK Rowling book for the October book. I needed something more festive and I'm so glad I went with this. I highly, highly recommend it! If you want to be captivated, love the Zombie theme and like to get a good giggle from a read, this is the one for you!

I didn't like her because of her spoof on SNL of Sarah Palin. It's not that I love Sarah Palin, it's that Tina Fey is a feminist and Sarah Palin a female; I thought it was audacious and disrespectful. But Tina more than redeemed herself in Bossypants! I love her. She's real and relate-able and sure as sugar she is a feminist. Tina and I are contemporaries and I felt a kinship with her while reading this book. Save for one thing...my Dad (Doc) is better than her dad (Don)! This listen is great! I highly recommend it for the laughs alone but the story is great too!

I do not know how this made the best sellers list. In concept it should've been an amazing tale. Unfortunately it misses the mark and you are left waiting for something to happen. The narration is good enough if not a bit slow. But, how can it not be slow when sluggishness is the tone of the story.

As an educator, I am hard pressed to give a perfect score. But this story has it all -- a well written, meaty story line, lovable characters, amazing senses and scenery, creativity, wit and BONUS it's a total 80's feast. I bought this in hardcopy too and will revisit often. It will become the "Catcher In the Rye" for this decade!

The Monster of Florence is a story that wends it's way through the countryside of Tuscany. The accounts are harrowing and the narration excellent. Unfortunately, however, you wonder if the tale is ever going to get to a solution. I found this a 'good' read but really anticipated 'exciting.' The lack of follow through is why I only gave it three stars for story.