russellreitsema's reviews
84 reviews

Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury

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3.0

An interesting narrative that I had high hopes for. They fell short but by mere millimeters. I enjoyed the characters and the melodic weave the stories take you down, and of course the feelings of summer nostalgic that are the main thrust of this work of fiction. 
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

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3.75

I definitely see why people have hyped this book up. A milestone in contemporary feminist fiction, this story entices you in to a world that requires introspection. A book that befuddles and inspires, with a protagonist that forces their perspective on the reader. An arrogant read but it can back it up. 
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

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3.5

Often called the counterpart to 1984, this novel blew me away with its stark and brazen outlook on our potential future. If this doesn't make you think then you need to think more. 
Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally

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3.0

A brutal story that has enthralled generations and inspired incalculably. I don't think many words are needed here. 
Stoner by John Williams

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4.5

Truly an incredible journey, inhaling this brooding narrative was one of the highlights of my year. The wordplay, the character study, and the quiet stoicism in the face of bleakness says volumes to Williams skill and contemplativeness. Let it Marinate. 
First Person Singular by Haruki Murakami

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4.0

My first Murakami and what a treat it was! thought provoking, ruminal, pleasant, and light. This collection of stories left me wanting more and expressed the authors deep appreciation for many aspects of life and art. This will be my beginning into a wonderful Era of reading.
Shift by Hugh Howey

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3.0

An interesting addition to the silo series, I liked how it revealed a lot of how the world came to be, and how the characters involved impacted the first novel. looking forward to finishing the trilogy. 
A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis

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4.0

A startling and thought provoking masterpiece. I loved how short it was and that he had to force himself to keep it that way. Brutal. 
Greek Lessons by Han Kang

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3.5

my first Han Kang novel and I was at first taken aback by the style and prose so it took a minute to really sink into the story. More ephemeral than I was expecting but I can see the beauty and effort of the writing and the intricately woven narrative. I'll be enjoying more from Kang soon. 
The Next Person You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom

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3.0

Another carefully crafted story by Albom that delivers welled eyes and a warm hug from its pages. I always enjoy his books as easy reads between heavy books and this one doesn't disappoint. I'm not sure if it's morbid curiosity, but I am currently trying to find a hot air balloon ride 😄