Helpful Score: 12
This book was outstanding. It is one of the best books I have read in the last several years. It might be a little overwhelming due to its length, but once you get through the first 200 pages, it's a real page turner.
It's definitely a must read!
It's definitely a must read!
Helpful Score: 10
This is one of the best books I have read in quite some time. The historial portion concerning Haile Selassie is wonderful --- that was a blank in my own personal learning. There was also a bit of mystery and love story as well. I hesitate to say too much, other than to relate it is a truly wonderful book. A definite 5-star read.
Helpful Score: 10
After reading so much about this book, I was really looking forward to reading it. Unfortunately I was disappointed. Even half way into the book, I found myself not really caring about any of the characters or what happens to them. Some of the medical descriptions were long and unnecessary. There were many sexual references that I felt were out of place in the story. The book seemed to read as a meandering through the memories of one character and did not flow well for me. I wanted to like it based on the reviews, but I did not.
Helpful Score: 7
Spellbinding page turner. Dr. Verghese is a terrific writer. I was sucked into the story from the first page and never wanted it to end. It was thoroughly engrossing with wonderful characters who are well developed and very human. This story of love, loss, medicine, family and so much more will stay with you long after you have read the final page. I have placed Verghese's other books on my Wish List and can't wait to receive them. Fascinating, sad, and beautiful, I very highly recommend.
Helpful Score: 6
I found it difficult to get through the first 100 pages. It seemed like there were too many 'main' characters in the book and I could not follow the storyline. I thought if I got through the first 200 pages, I'd be rewarded with a wonderful reading experience. Instead, I found myself disinterested in both brothers and only really liked the character Hema. This book was disappointing. Usually I like, or at least can appreciate, well-reviewed books. Not this one.
