booksandbongs's reviews
155 reviews

This book is a bit more like some short stories tied together with a string, but the string keeps the stories connected and on track. Brooks' research into the Sarajevo Haggadah is clearly exemplified, and I think she did a great job at creating a story based on the history. I love when authors use multiple time periods and switch from contemporary to historical. A believable, engaging story that was quite the adventure, I enjoyed it overall. 

Before reading this, I was largely unfamiliar with the history surrounding the Oxford English Dictionary. I enjoyed learning about the Bodleian library as well. The author's note is really worth reading and I loved how she created the characters with real life inspiration. It is clear the author put in a lot of work and research to make the story as historically accurate as possible -- even all of the books referenced in the story are real. I was also largely unaware of the profession of lexicographers, and found myself fascinated by the work. I also appreciated her recognition of the dictionary's shortcomings and acknowledgement of indigenous peoples stories and language. Overall, I found this to be a well written, enjoyable novel that will appeal especially to those who have a passion for books --and more specifically, words. 
"The Dictionary, like the English language, is a work in progress"

I knew very little about Jobs before this biography. After reading, I have to say that while he was a pretty sh*tty individual, he was a revolutionary genius and I agree with Issacson that he will go down in history with folks like Ford. As much as I disliked reading about his personality and actions, it is hard to not admire/be impressed with not only the brand and legacy he created, but the significant impact on technology and the future as we know it. 

I really enjoyed this one. The story was intriguing and I loved the historical element. I liked but did not love Valpy’s writing, but that may be because she was trying to write as Josie, a child. The ending was unexpected but I like how she tied all the loose ends up nicely, even if it was a little unrealistic. Overall an enjoyable, immersive story based in history. 

Really enjoyed this memoir. I loved how vivid the descriptions were, I felt like I could see and smell the dishes she described. I do wish she would have gone into some more details at times, but I understand her reasoning for keeping the memoir concise. I have not listened to her music but I will be seeking it out now that I have learned a bit about her. Overall a good memoir with good reflections on life and loss. 

Interesting facts and I enjoyed the Bryson/Katz relationship but you can tell it was written over 20 years ago based off of some of the jokes made. Overall enjoyed reading about the AT and gained admiration for hikers. 

Finally got around to reading this classic. I enjoyed the adventure and was pleasantly surprised with the writing style. Not exactly what  had been expecting, but interesting nonetheless. Verne writes in a very easy to understand, almost "modern" sense. 

"Not all stories speak to all listeners, but all listeners can find a story that does, somewhere, sometime. In one form or another." (page 298)
This book feels like a love letter written to lovers of books. To those who envelop themselves in fictional worlds and use reading as a way to escape to another place. The sheer expanse of this book combined with intertangled story lines provides a complex read that demands the readers full attention. Because of the elegant writing style and beautiful prose, I found myself re reading sentences and pages to savor them a little longer. There were times when I was unsure of the narrative, but this is one that absolutely rewards you for sticking with it. The layers to the story really drew me into the world, and I would be lying if I haven't kept an eye out for any painted doors since. I also really appreciated the references and element of video games in the story, as someone who's two main hobbies are reading and gaming, this book felt like it was meant for people like me. 
It is so easy to fall in love with not only the world, but the characters that fit together just right. 
I think anyone who shares a similar relationship to books and to reading will feel the same about this book. It is just magnificent. This is another one that will stick with me for a long time, I think I will always wish I could pop into the Harbor to curl up in a cozy corner with a kitty and lose myself in a story (or many stories). It will be one I will be purchasing a copy of to hold on to forever -- it is one of those books that feels like home, that I don't want to say "see you later" to.  

"Strange, isn't it? To love a book. When the words on the pages become so precious that they feel like part of your own history because they are." (page 373). 

A charming book that while staying relatively lighthearted provides a thoughtful look on losing someone and love after that. Backman always seems to encourage a level of introspection in his works which I really love. I enjoyed the layering of the story and how we gradually learn more about Ove's life. Made me smile, laugh, and cry, a truly enjoyable read. The interconnectedness of the characters is something I really liked, and the epilogue wrapped up all of the characters and their lives really nicely. The ending made me cry, but in a good way. A little predictable/corny but in the BEST way possible -- feels like an emotion filled hug.

Marked as fiction only because he relies on his memories and stories as opposed to documents. This memoir is beautifully written and exposes the pain, loss, love, and hope that comes with being a refugee. An emotional, eye opening story with bits of wisdom woven in throughout. Appears to be classified as a children's book, but I think this can appeal to all ages -- it is a more challenging read with the non-linear writing style and lack of chapters. While I think a young audience will enjoy the story, I do not know if they will truly be able to appreciate the beautiful use of language and careful prose in the book. The unusual lyrical structure was refreshing to read and made me feel like I was inside of the author's thoughts. I found myself highlighting and mulling over some sentences, causing me to think introspectively. Overall a delightful, heartbreaking, powerful book that I would consider a must read.