Helpful Score: 14
It is difficult me to separate this book from its author, as Sheri was my writing professor in college. I know she completed this novel while finishing the M.F.A. program. I also know it was extremely emotional for her to write.
That said, I *did* love the book and found myself empathizing with the main character even though she made decisions very different from what I would have made in her situation. Essentially, this book chronicles the story of an abused girl, her journey to create her own life, the way she copes, and the way she eventually comes to terms with her life. She's extraordinary and not your typical character. Recommended because of its unique approach to creating a character.
That said, I *did* love the book and found myself empathizing with the main character even though she made decisions very different from what I would have made in her situation. Essentially, this book chronicles the story of an abused girl, her journey to create her own life, the way she copes, and the way she eventually comes to terms with her life. She's extraordinary and not your typical character. Recommended because of its unique approach to creating a character.
Helpful Score: 2
I couldn't put this down! I have read two of Reynolds' novels and found both completely enjoyable. Her characters are so well-developed and their stories become very personal. You end the book wishing the story would go on and feeling like you are leaving a piece of yourself behind with the character.
The subject matter is child molestation, sometimes descriptions are a little graphic but well worth the pain!
Highly recommend!
The subject matter is child molestation, sometimes descriptions are a little graphic but well worth the pain!
Highly recommend!
Helpful Score: 2
I became a big fan of Sheri Reynolds after reading The Rapture of Canaan, so when I found this book I was eager to read it. It left me disappointed and disgusted at times. It's a quick, easy read, but in the end I felt like reading it was a total waste of time.
Helpful Score: 2
This was a goog book by Sheri Reynolds though not her best. It is a great example of what people who have been sexually abused go through in their own minds. The main character Jael inmagines people who can help her through different feelings and emotions. The dark woman she imagines is strong, the virgin mary is wholesome and good ect. After so many men have hurt her throughout her childhood and youth it is a breath of fresh air when she meets Wallace, her boyfriend. Wallace loves Jael and supports her through her journey of dealing with her past. I am a devoted fan of Sheri Reynolds and real everything she writes. Bitterroot Landing is the typical style of Sheri Reynolds with wonderfully expressive language. It pulls you in and doesn't let go till you finish the book. Great author.
Helpful Score: 2
Well once again I was overwhelmed by the violence, sorrow and painful revealing of the coming of age of a young girl who is abused by almost all the men she meets. She escapes from one situation to another with the same results. Tho I am ok reading about abuse, I really have a problem reading about people hurting themself by cutting themselves.It is well written, and you grow very fond of the heroine, but overall it was just too dark for my taste. I also read The Rapture of Canaan, and ended up giving it away as too depressing.
this author is gifted at expressing the unbelievable pain and anguish at living as a survivor.
I read this book for a reading circle in class. Which was good, because it definitely required some discussion. Gave me insight to the world of sexual abuse survivors and the struggles they face. Not a light read, but a thought-provoking novel.
A very poetic account of the effects of the victimization of a young girl. Heavy but hopeful.
She writes wonderful stories and this was no exception. A thought provoking story. Rich characters that develope and come to be part of the whole picture. Brought together in different points of view that really make it a great read.
I enjoyed this book. I like the writing style. It kept my interest and the characters pulled me in.
