madgerdes's Reviews (970)

I usually struggle with anthologies but I couldn't put this one down. A relevant and poignant ode to 2017, this book wasn't blatantly political but was gently so. What struck me the most was an excerpt from an interview with Ella Ferrante where she explains how she is a reader who forgets: "I forget especially the books I've loved very much. I have an impression of them, I have a feeling for them, but to discuss them I would have to reread them." I relate to this as a reader and as someone who is developing her sense of morality and self within the confines of the 2017 climate. I may forget the specifics of this book and this year, but I will remember the way that made me feel. Disheartened yet optimistic, eager to learn, and aware of my responsibilities.

A lovable community of shopkeepers in London become transfixed by a foreign visitor, who inadvertently changes all of their lives. Filled with music trivia and passionate characters, this book was an enjoyable read. While I wanted to love this book, it just didn't stick to my ribs the way I expected it to. I felt detached the entire time I was reading, and never felt truly invested in the story. Parts of the plot moved too slowly, and some of the plot jumps made the story feel like a skipping record. Frank was the archetype of the quirky single shop owner stuck in his ways, despite the world changing around him. However, the characters were lovable, flaws and all. In fact, they were the best part of the book. With more character development, I may have been more invested in the book