The Reader by Bernhard Schlink:
What I liked: Thoroughly engrossing story. It’s easy to get emotionally attached to the narrative of this tale. My co-worker read this about a month after I did and the physical and emotional toll was visible. The story has a way of being really fresh and familiar. The aftermath of the Holocaust is a familiar one to many. The freshness of the affair as well as the secret Hanna is hiding is what keeps you entrenched. A wonderful read.
What I Didn’t: The affair was surprisingly graphic. My co-worker described it as soft core porn. The shock of the book leaves you a little jarred. Schlink also has a way of pulling the emotional rug out from under you. Which I think is satisfying as a literary device but is also very heart wrenching.
Who Will Like This: Just about anyone.
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman:
What I Liked: I loved everything about this book! I am a huge Neil Gaiman fan so he’d have to try not to please me. That aside the story is a wonderful adventure. His characters are always cheeky but good natured. The names of his characters are clever and you root for them throughout the book.
What I Didn’t: That you can’t find this book anywhere! I’m hoping since it won the Newberry, shelves will begin to be stocked by this wonderful book.
Who Will Like This: Anyone.
