Fur Quits round 4 - Jas' book

[BumgrapesofWrath]

T R by C M

[BumgrapesofWrath]

I was very excited when this dropped through my letterbox - it has been on my "to read" list for a long time.

I read the book in about four days (which is quick for me) as I was so gripped by the story. I think the author paints a good picture of what the world is like in this story. I felt sucked into the story of the two characters, and I went through a range of emotions whilst reading this book. I am even tempted to pack an OFRS after reading about the plight of the main characters!

I did find it a bit bleak though. I have read a book by the same author (N C F O M), and I felt they were similar in the way that there is a lot of darkness, and sometimes it does seem relentless.

I'd be interested if others feel the same way, but I felt disappointed that a lot of the story is left unsaid. I think that is because I like "completion" of a story (I'm a simple creature obviously)! Like, how is it that the protagonists came to be where they were, having outlived so many people? And years after the initial "incident" that changed the world?

Overall, I'd give this book 4 out of 5 (in an amazon review style). Really ace book!

[Jas]

I'm glad you didn't hate it. Bleak is a fair description!

I chose it as a world book day book as I hadn't read it....you can also register it on their site. The info is in the front page.

I also enjoyed it (if enjoyed is the right word).

[Cersei]

Can't decide if I loved or hated this one!

I read it in 2 sittings, finishing last night very late. I had to keep going to the end because it was making me so emotional I thought if I stopped I might not be able to bring myself to start it again. I would have liked more back story as well. I agree with Bumgrapes, it is very bleak and relentless but very compelling and I'm glad I got to the end. I had tears in my eyes though and I think the story and characters will stay with me for a long time.

[Pascha]

This is a very bleak book. Extremely well written and evocative, I had some trouble getting to the end though as it was just so relentlessly depressing. I'm not sure I would pick it up again, its just too sad for me.

[Housewifefromheaven]

Gosh it was a painful read. Bleak yes, profound and sad.

I'm glad I read it but if I had known how it would leave me feeling im not sure i would have started it.

[RhinestoneCowgirl]

Yes, bleak, but glad I read it. There's a line in it (used more than once I think) about "once things go into your head, it's impossible to get them out" and there were definitely some images in this book that are difficult to forget. The relationship between father and son was portrayed so well.

[Ragwort]

This has been (for me) the best read of the book club so far.

I found it really well written, I couldn't put it down, yes, it was obviously very, very sad and depressing but I also felt it really described what might happen in the future in a sensitive but non-slushy way (if that makes sense).

Thanks Jas, an inspiring read. I believe it is a film now, has anyone seen it?

[Lightshines]

I think this is a memorable, inspiring book which I have already read more than once. The notion of a world where money has no value, only food & water, is a great storyline in itself, together with the themes of survival, journeying, hope and despair.
For me though, as it obviously has been for others, the strength of the book and what held me to it, is the father and son. As the mother of a son, I watch my DS' relationship with his Dad every day and when I read this book, it just seems so evocative of this essential father/son bond.
I know the ending is slightly ambiguous but I am optimistic that with the child joining the family with a pregnant woman, that there is hope of recovery for the world.
Amazing book.

[headintheclouds]

i had this book on my shelf to read and have never got around to it. im so glad Ive now read it.. Despite the sheer bleakness of it ,it gripped me until the end. it has got to be the saddest book Ive ever read ,but I loved it.
Thanks Jas

[NoKnownAllergies]

This book has been a favorite of mine for a long time. Despite having a copy and another on my kindle I began reading it again. C.M. Is a fantastic writer and really captures the nuances of relationships. Every time I read this it feels me with hope, sorrow, joy, and reminds me of the delicate nature of humanity.

Thanks JAS