Carmela D. reviewed on 9/6/2009

Helpful Score: 1

A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court is one of those books that require an open mind and careful reading, but it is definitely worth your time. I found the plot to be engaging, but beware of some intentional plot holes and a very erratic pace. The plot holes tend to reflect a deeper meaning, so I suggest examining them after taking in the book as a hole. A good example would be the fact that none of the main character's (The Boss) machines ever malfunction. This is symbolic of Twain's faith in the modern machine, and rather ironic as he went bankrupt (while writing this book) after investing in a new invention known as a typesetter (invented by James W Paige). The pace quickly goes from action pact escapes from angry villagers and knights to a rather long, but interesting, discussion on economics. I found some of these lengthy discussions to be very interesting and applicable in the modern day world. One could very easily say two things about this book. One that it is a Satire of sorts in that he expounds his beliefs by using his trade mark sarcasm and rather horrific humour. He is not all tragedy in this book, however, a sentimental side full of grief and hope for hummanity comes through distinctly, and hits the reader hard when least expected. Finally two, the book is an extension of Mark Twain. In fact, I fell safe in saying that it really is a culmination of his politics, opinions, personality, ect.. put into one book. I like to think of this book as Twain's shout-out to humanity. A must read for Mark Twain fans everywhere.

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