Signs and Symbols by Vladimir Nabokov

Synopsis: A family struggles with the decision of committing their boy to a mental institution, and after discussing their choice over his birthday gift, they decide to bring him home.
Review: The agony and pain this family suffers from with their decision is evident and their struggle is so well written it tugs at the heartstrings.
Recommendation: Cryptic and full of symbolism, a sad read that is well worth it.
Sea Oak by George Saunders
Synopsis: A struggling family grieves over their self-created depressing lives and when their family matriarch passes a surprise visit changes their outlook on life forever.
Review: The abuse and lackadaisical attitude of this family is maddening and overused, that pair with the vulgar language and treatment of loved ones made it a difficult read.
Recommendation: If the language/themes do not offend you, the moral and theme of the story is sweet and profound making it worth reading if you can.
To Build a Fire by Jack London
Synopsis: A deeply compelling story following a man and his dog as they journey through the frozen north and struggle to survive.
Review: The mental journey that this man undertakes is just as interesting to read as his physical one.
Recommendation: The dark and twisted content is highly entertaining and as the characters continue on the read trudges along with them.
Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut
| 3 Stars | fiction, political, fantasy, oppression | Synopsis: 2081 and the Constitution has over 200 amendments to help create the "equal" American dream through suppression and lowering standards. Review: Harrison Bergeron's story is compelling, madding, and heartbroken. This story is a classic for a reason. Recommendation: Read it. Then read it again. Every time you read it you'll get more out of it and it will continue to surprise you. |