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garrettweinholtz's review against another edition
4.0
Much darker than I expected, but honestly a very thought provoking book. The collection of short stories at the end seem disjointed but besides that a fantastic read.
laydownyoursoul's review against another edition
4.0
Great story, very entertaining and some interesting commentary. Made me remember how great of a writer the author is, and realise how influential he was to authors that came after. Pretty funny moments too, and the character of Satan (named after his rich uncle who's away working in 'the tropics') was great.
Liked the ending and the ambiguity.
Always interesting reading older narratives that are looking back in time to things like witch trials. Story felt cohesive despite apparently being put together from several unfinished manuscripts.
Liked the ending and the ambiguity.
Always interesting reading older narratives that are looking back in time to things like witch trials. Story felt cohesive despite apparently being put together from several unfinished manuscripts.
becca13's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
kirchreads's review against another edition
4.0
Insightful.
It's been a while since I read Mark Twain. There were three short stories at the end and, especially the one about the burglar alarm, I was reminded just how hysterically Mr. Twain is able to write. The Mysterious Stranger, a short book, presented me with much occasion to think. I highlighted a lot, wondering if the thoughts presented were Mr. Twain's own beliefs or his presentation of someone else. Regardless, it reminded me of why I believe what I believe and why I do what I do. Many people ask questions about God and Christianity, and they don't get satisfactory answers. They leave hurt or betrayed or angry. It's important to me to answer well when these questions come up, and to do so honestly. Anyway, I was thankful for a differing perspective on God, Christianity, and reality itself. It helped me think more deeply about my own faith. Maybe this book will help others do the same.
It's been a while since I read Mark Twain. There were three short stories at the end and, especially the one about the burglar alarm, I was reminded just how hysterically Mr. Twain is able to write. The Mysterious Stranger, a short book, presented me with much occasion to think. I highlighted a lot, wondering if the thoughts presented were Mr. Twain's own beliefs or his presentation of someone else. Regardless, it reminded me of why I believe what I believe and why I do what I do. Many people ask questions about God and Christianity, and they don't get satisfactory answers. They leave hurt or betrayed or angry. It's important to me to answer well when these questions come up, and to do so honestly. Anyway, I was thankful for a differing perspective on God, Christianity, and reality itself. It helped me think more deeply about my own faith. Maybe this book will help others do the same.
zakoka's review against another edition
2.0
I enjoy Mark Twain's work and thought I would this one as well. I was wrong. It drug on and felt like a lecture instead of a story. I finished it quickly more to get it out of the way than for pleasure.
karathagan's review against another edition
Classic. I read it long ago as part of a book of short stories, and I guess that was just a few excerpts. Great read and thought provoking about morality and what humanity is good for.
leximayhew's review against another edition
5.0
Tyll vibes
Upgraded from 4 to 5 stars because Ive thought about this book every day since I finished it a week ago
Upgraded from 4 to 5 stars because Ive thought about this book every day since I finished it a week ago
benwoods's review against another edition
4.0
“...a hard life, I think."
"Comparatively. It must not be mistaken for a holiday.”
"Comparatively. It must not be mistaken for a holiday.”