family pain

this is a book which is worth keeping on with. the small cast of characters cover two historical periods so there are times when you play catch-up as you listen. in Kingsolver you have a very competent reader, whose voice is a pleasure to hear (& I speak as a Brit!).

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10 people found this helpful

Not quite but nearly….

Slightly disappointed, too many unbelievable plot twists that deter from the plan message which I did like and informed as well as terrified me. This book is set over 2 time periods and the shift skilfully done, it worked in the main but I wanted more somehow from the older period. I love her as a writer and been a follower since Poisonwood, but this one lacked something. Still a great companion as I do day!

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Unsheltered

Really loved this book. Would definitely recommend. Will certainly seem out more books written by Barbara Kingsolver.

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A true pleasure to listen to.

I always look forward to a Barbara Kingsolver book. I think I’ve read all of them - each one so different from its siblings - and they always live up to expectations. This is the first of her books that I have listened to - and it is read by her too. That was a true bonus. Her reading was so enjoyable- had me laughing out loud quite a few times- and I think I’ll have to get the book too. Deftly switching from one generation to another, back and forth, with a story for each family that I couldn’t wait to get back to. I know I’ll hear her voice while I read it.

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A tender and thought provoking story of two histories intertwined.

Clever and sensitive. Thought provoking and raising so many of today’s important issues in the gentlest of writing. Beautifully read by the author, bringing out the poignancy of the writing in her lovely lyrical voice. Not missing a trick throughout of this incredible story. This is in my top ten ever books for sure.

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Perfection

I absolutely loved this book. So many layers of meaning. Such wisdom and wonderful characters. Chilling reflection on modern society but a hint of optimism if we can all be more like Tig.

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Not Author's usual style

I enjoyed this book a little... The story was slightly gripping but at times didn't hold up. I found explanations being missed out, human reactions seemed dulled and finer details missed out. Weird because her previous books have felt so rich and interesting. At times it just felt like a political dialogue and I lost interest. It also surprised me when it ended, I was left feeling "what actually happened?"

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Rich and Wise

I was at times exasperated by Willa and nauaeated by Tig's goody goodyness. Mary too seemed too good to be true at times. I found it very American (obviously!!) which I also struggled with, but it is a richly woven story full of wisdom which I ultimately enjoyed...the more so for knowing it had it's foundation in real events and people.

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1 person found this helpful

Not my favourite

Just didn’t flow for me. I’m a huge admirer of Barbara Kingsolver but this fell short of a usual WOW for me.

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1 person found this helpful

Another gripping story from Barbara Kingsolver.

I really enjoyed it, but perhaps was not as gripped as for Poisonwood Bible or Flight Behaviour. Love her reading.

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