Patrick M.

Japanese Surrealism

Revisado: 04-28-23

The 1Q84 audiobook by Haruki Murakami is a spellbinding, surreal experience that will leave you questioning reality itself. This epic novel is split into three parts, each of which is narrated by a different actor, adding to the already otherworldly experience.

From the very first track, the listener is transported to an alternate reality where two moons hang in the sky and mysterious events occur with increasing frequency. Murakami's writing is both beautiful and haunting, with vivid descriptions that create a dreamlike atmosphere.

The novel follows the parallel stories of two characters, Aomame and Tengo, whose lives become intertwined as they search for answers to the strange events happening around them. As the story unfolds, the listener is drawn deeper into the strange world of 1Q84, where things are not always what they seem.

The audiobook is narrated by Allison Hiroto, Marc Vietor, and Mark Boyett, each of whom brings their own unique voice to the story. Their performances are exceptional, capturing the dreamlike quality of Murakami's prose while also conveying the emotional depth of the characters.

At times, 1Q84 can be a challenging listen, with its surreal imagery and complex narrative. However, the audiobook is also incredibly spellbinding, drawing the listener in with its mysterious atmosphere and haunting themes.

Overall, the 1Q84 audiobook is a must-listen for anyone looking for a surreal, otherworldly experience. Murakami's writing is both beautiful and strange, and the performances of the narrators bring the story to life in a truly immersive way. While it may be a bit weird at times, it is also a truly spellbinding listen that will leave you thinking long after the final track has ended.

PS: A bit of trivia, if you didn't already know : "Q" or "kyu" is the Japanese word for "9" ... so ...the book title is actually 1984 !!

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Don't sleep on this!

Revisado: 04-27-23

The captivating science fiction audiobook To Sleep in a Sea of Stars transports the listener on an exhilarating journey through space. Jennifer Hale, the narrator, does a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life and expressing their motivations and feelings with a wide range and depth.

The action scenes are where Hale's narration truly shines, as she masterfully uses her tone and tempo to portray the sense of urgency and danger. She is also adept at differentiating the voices of the many characters, making it simple to understand the conversation and remain interested in the plot.

With a number of twists and turns to keep the listener on the edge of their seat, the plot itself is rich and intricate. To Sleep in a Sea of Stars takes readers on an emotional journey that will touch science fiction aficionados, from thrilling space battles to painful scenes of personal loss.

However, there are significant pace flaws in various areas of the book that can occasionally make it feel tedious and boring. To keep the tale moving forward, these portions may use tighter editing.

Overall, To Sleep in a Sea of Stars is a riveting science fiction story that I wholeheartedly recommend. The narration by Jennifer Hale is excellent and vividly describes the world and its inhabitants. Despite some pacing flaws, the event as a whole is well worth the trip.

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Like being stuck in Quicksand, but it's Slowsand

Revisado: 04-26-23

Ah, Infinite Jest, the epic tome that's been praised as a masterpiece of contemporary literature. I mean, what's not to love about a book that's over a thousand pages long (i own a physical copy too) and has footnotes that could rival the length of a novella?

I've started this book not once, not twice, but several times, and each time I feel like I'm taking on a Herculean task. But hey, at least the cover is nice to look at, right?

The first hundred pages are a breeze, if you like reading long, rambling descriptions of tennis matches and drug addiction. Then things start to get weird. Characters start popping up out of nowhere, and the timeline jumps around like a frog on a hot plate. And let's not forget about the footnotes. Oh, the footnotes. They're like a maze, leading you down a rabbit hole of obscure trivia and random anecdotes. Don't even think about trying to keep track of them all.

But don't worry, it's not all bad. There are some moments of genuine humor and insight buried in there somewhere. If you can manage to wade through the endless pages of pretentious prose and self-indulgent digressions, you might even find something to like.

All in all, I'd say Infinite Jest is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the feeling of being stuck in quicksand. But if you're looking for a book that's actually enjoyable to read, you might want to look elsewhere. As for me, I think I'll go back to trying to finish it for the fourth time. Maybe by the time I'm done, I'll have earned a PhD in literature.

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Wizards in England (for adults)

Revisado: 04-26-23

"Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell" is a bewitching tale that transports the reader back to a time when magic was fading from the world. Susanna Clarke weaves a spellbinding narrative that transports you to a world of enchantment, where powerful magicians walk the earth.

The characters of Norrell and Strange are complex, with hidden depths and secrets that only add to their mystique. Clarke's writing is imbued with a sense of magic and wonder that infuses every page with a sense of otherworldly beauty.

The world-building is exquisite, with Clarke painting a richly detailed picture of 19th century England that is both familiar and strange. From the winding streets of London to the rolling countryside, every detail is brought to life with a vividness that makes the world of "Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell" feel real and tangible.

But it is the magic that truly sets this book apart. Clarke has created a magical system that is at once intricate and beguiling, with rules and limitations that give the magic a sense of groundedness and believability. The magic in this book is a living, breathing thing, and Clarke's writing is so evocative that you can almost feel its power coursing through your veins.

Overall, "Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell" is a captivating work of historical fantasy that will enchant readers with its spellbinding prose, vivid world-building, and richly drawn characters. It is a book that will transport you to another time and place, and leave you longing for more."

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Giftishly Good

Revisado: 04-26-23

"After On" by Rob Reid is a brilliantly written and narrated masterpiece that ranks among my top five favorite books on Audible. The stellar ensemble cast brings the story to life with their incredible performances, each character uniquely and expertly portrayed. I've watched Felicia Day and Leo Laporte numerous times online in their respective areas of expertise and it was fun to have them in this book as well.

The story itself is captivating, combining technology, science fiction, and philosophy in a way that will leave you thinking long after it's over. Rob Reid has a true talent for creating a realistic, near-future world that feels both familiar and completely new. I highly recommend "After On" to anyone who loves science fiction, technology, social networks, or just a great story expertly narrated.

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Pop goes the Weasel ... er ... Curio

Revisado: 04-26-23

Bubblegum by Adam Levin is a wild ride that defies categorization. It is intentionally tedious at times and thigh-slappingly funny at others, It's a coming-of-age story, a satire, a science-fiction epic, and a character study all rolled into one deliciously weird package almost defying definition and description. At times laugh-out-loud funny, at others heartbreakingly poignant, this book will keep you on your toes until the very last page.

Levin's writing style is unique, with a zany, almost manic energy that perfectly captures the absurdity of the world he's created. The characters are wonderfully flawed and relatable, each struggling in their own way to make sense of the world around them. And the world itself is a marvel, a bizarre dystopian landscape that feels both familiar and completely alien.

But what really sets Bubblegum apart is its sheer ambition. Levin isn't content to tell a simple story; he wants to explore big ideas and challenge his readers to think deeply about the world we live in. Whether you're looking for a laugh, a cry, or a mind-bending trip through the unknown, Bubblegum has something for everyone. So strap on your seatbelt, grab a stick of gum, and get ready for the ride of your life. Oh, and beware of the swing sets.

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Carry On Comfort

Revisado: 04-26-23

"Carrion Comfort" by Dan Simmons is a monstrous novel in every sense of the word. Its intricate plot, diverse characters, and deeply disturbing themes make for an intense and unforgettable reading experience. Simmons' writing is exquisite, flowing effortlessly from one scene to the next, and his ability to evoke emotions is masterful. The novel's exploration of power, morality, and the darkest aspects of human nature is both chilling and thought-provoking.

Simmons' portrayal of the mind-controlling "mind vampires" is particularly impressive, as he delves deep into the intricacies of their abilities and the psychological effects on their victims. The novel's action scenes are also thrilling, with the stakes always high and the tension palpable.

Overall, "Carrion Comfort" is not a book for the faint of heart, but for those willing to brave its darkness, it is a masterpiece of horror fiction that will leave a lasting impression.

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Mediocre entry from the Master

Revisado: 04-26-23

While Stephen King has definitely and deservedly earned a reputation as one of the masters of horror, "The Institute: A Novel" falls short of his usual standards. The book follows the story of children who are taken to a secret facility and subjected to cruel experiments. While the premise is promising, the execution of the story is leaning towards "lackluster". I find his publications of the last 15 years either very good, or just mediocre. This one is the latter.

One of the major criticisms of the book is the lack of character development. The main characters are flat and one-dimensional, making it hard to empathize with them or become invested in their story. The pacing is also slow and meandering, with long stretches of exposition and little action or tension. The climax is underwhelming and feels rushed, with a resolution that is unsatisfying and predictable.

Overall, "The Institute: A Novel" is, IMHO, a disappointing addition to Stephen King's impressive oeuvre. While the book has some interesting ideas, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling story or memorable characters in my view.

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The Sacking of Saunt Edhar

Revisado: 04-26-23

As a reader of "Anathem" by Neal Stephenson, I find myself drawn to the book's exploration of the boundaries of human knowledge and the nature of reality. The work is a true masterpiece of speculative fiction, a genre that allows us to explore the depths of our own consciousness and the world around us.

Stephenson's world-building is nothing short of miraculous, and his characters are imbued with a depth and complexity that is rarely seen in works of fiction. Through the lens of these characters, we are invited to explore the intersection of science and religion, and to consider the implications of our understanding of the world.

The book's themes are both timeless and timely, speaking to the deepest yearnings of the human soul and the challenges we face as we seek to understand our place in the world. As Pope Francis has said, "Science and faith are not opposed to each other; rather, they are complementary. They both lead us to a deeper understanding of the world and of our place in it."

In "Anathem," Stephenson has crafted a work that speaks to this complementary nature of science and faith, inviting us to explore the mysteries of the universe and the mysteries of our own souls. It is a book that will challenge your assumptions, expand your understanding, and leave you with a profound sense of awe and wonder.

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4 hours in, 39 more :)

Revisado: 04-26-23

"The Wandering Inn: The Wandering Inn, Book 1" audiobook by pirateaba is a delightful and engaging story that will keep you hooked from the start. Granted, I am only 4 hours into this Behemoth, but I'll gladly continue on ...

Andrea Parsneau's excellent narration is one of the standout features of this audiobook, as she brings the different alien species to life with ease. Her ability to distinguish between multiple characters from different backgrounds is truly impressive.

The main character may have moments of whininess, but she is still a fun and likable character to follow. The story's world-building and plot development are equally impressive, making it easy to get lost in the book's fantastical setting.

If you're a fan of science fiction or fantasy, "The Wandering Inn: The Wandering Inn, Book 1" is definitely worth checking out. It's a well-crafted audiobook that is sure to entertain and captivate you for hours on end.

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