Kress, Nancy: Beggars in Spain

[calico_reaction]

Comments

[shel99]

Interesting review. I hadn't managed to get my hands on this yet, and after reading your review I don't think I'll bother.

I did just get Graveminder out of the library, though :)

[calico_reaction]

You may want to read some of the reviews I linked to; two of the book clubbers absolutely LOVED this book, and I'd hate to see you make the decision off my review alone. :)

[arielstarshadow]

I admit, I've been waiting to see what you thought of this book. I read it many years ago, and my reaction was "meh." Despite this, I read the sequel, which was even "meh-ier" and promptly took them to the used bookstore and sold them.

[calico_reaction]

Interesting. Do you tend to like these types of soft, social SF stories? Or did Kress just not engage you as a reader?

[arielstarshadow]

Hmmm, I hadn't thought if it in that sort of context. I enjoyed A Door Into Ocean, which might also be considered soft, social sci-fi (I think?)?

[calico_reaction]

I've not read that one yet, but I keep meaning to do so.

What about any Le Guin? Butler?

[intoyourlungs]

[calico_reaction]

I always worry when I start seeing reviews for a book club pick and people like it more than I am. :)

Sad stuff!

[burgandyice]

I think you nailed it as far as connecting with the characters, or not, rather. There was distance. I didn't like being pulled out of the story when something was interesting and being dropped back in 30 years later, beyond a string of decisions I wasn't excited about. I thought the overall impression was depressing. Which is ironic when the Sleepless were supposed to be so cheerful. If the happy idea had been carried through-out the book, it might not have stood out so badly, but all the Sleepless seemed pretty depressed by the end - or angry, confused, frustrated - anything but happy!!

I will post my original review on my newish attempt at a blog... www.burgandyice.blogspot.com

Re: Sad stuff!

[calico_reaction]

I've added your review to the list! Thanks for the link, and I'll be sure to check it out!

[bardiphouka]

Shortly after finishing the book my glasses mysteriously disappeared, and I have just replaced them. SO I will try to get my review up sometime over the next 24.

[calico_reaction]

No prob! Looking forward to your thoughts!