Joanne Harris - Chocolat & Lollipop Shoes - What do we think?

[CandyLoo]

I've had these books recommended to me, if you've read them, are they worth having a go?

[WoahNelly]

I loved Chocolat, haven't read Lollipop Shoes

I liked the descriptions of France and chocolate and thought the climax to the story was well written and unexpected

[SerenaJoy]

I was surprised to find that I really enjoyed Chocolat. Not sure why but I just didn't fancy it (or any of JH's stuff), but my sister persuaded me to give it a go and I was glad I did. I just started Lollipop Shoes today so I'll have to get back to you on that one

[MrsHelsBels74]

I adored Chocolat, hated Lollipop Shoes, mainly because it ignored loads of the plot of Chocolat. It just all seems a bit formulaic these days, like she's run out of ideas

[GrandPoohBah]

All of her stuff is the same, but if you're going to read it, read Chocolat - it's definitely the best of them. I was underwhelmed by Lollipop Shoes to be honest.

[DuchessofMalfi]

There's a third one now, isn't there - Peaches for M. le Cure? I've read Chocolat but not the other two. I liked Chocolat, and loved the film even though so much of the story was changed.

The only other two of her novels I've read are Five Quarters of the Orange and Blackberry Wine, neither of which I particularly liked.

[ScreamyShriekyFrightyWoozyWooo]

Chocolat was ok, Lollipop Shoes was rubbish. [hgrin]

[PetiteRaleuse]

I enjoyed Chocolat but haven't read the other two. I loved Five Quarters of an Orange - it is one of my all time favourite books.

I also have the first of her cooking books, French Ktchen, and love it.

[PedallingSquares]

I have enjoyed most of her books. Blue Eyed Boy (I think that was the title) being the exception.

Joanne Harris does have a definite style though which you may or may not like. I would say that her books are worth a try.

[tripfiction]

Particularly if you are a Francophile and you really want to feel you have literally walked into small town France (Chocolat) and Paris (Lollipop Shoes) then these books are great. Quirky and interesting.

[mixedmamameansbusiness]

Interesting, I really want to read chocolat but haven't got round to it, will read this thread with interest.

[DamnDeDoubtance]

I loved all three books, Chocolat would be my favorite.

Gentlemen and players is ace, really worth a read.

[sunmoonstarstoo]

I've read both and loved them both, struggled with others of hers though.

[grendel]

Chocolat was good enough.
Lollipop Shoes was so rubbish that I almost felt inclined to write her a letter of complaint for insulting her readers. Very similar to her other books in plot and setting and so very repetitive even within the book itself - whole phrases or descriptions repeated. Really needed a good editor. Lazy writing.