Rating:  Summary: I Know This Much is True Review: No one could deny the fact that Wally Lamb knows his characters inside and out, or that he has the magical ability to draw you into their lives and emotions.That being said, I really have to say that I was somewhat disappointed in "I Know This Much is True", especially considering how much I loved his first novel "She's Come Undone". There were good points, granted, it was an enjoyable read, his characters have believable, individual voices. The parallels drawn between the three generations of the Birdsey/Tempesta family were clever and well-crafted. My main criticism of the book, which clears 900 pages, is not what it includes, but what it leaves out. The story does much to build up the emotional suspense as the story unfolds, but it's after the unfolding that I was left hoping for more details. After nearly a thousand pages, the ending felt rushed to me. The pace of the book, which for 890 pages was slow and leisurely, kicked into high gear without much dialogue as to emotional reactions. We knew Dominick Birdsey so well that we know how he felt about the dishes left in the sink, but in those last few pages, he failed to give us even the slightest insight into his emotions. That being said, I'd still recommend this book. I'll read this book again, guaranteed. And I'll be first in line for Mr. Lamb's next novel.
Rating:  Summary: Easily one of the all-time best books I've read Review: There's no way to give a synopsis of this book; and the publisher's attempt, while technically accurate, is far off the mark. You just have to read it! This is certainly not a book for light reading or in small doses. Time must be devoted to fully get into the head and heart of this wounded family. But the surprises are worth the trudge through the shame and tattered self-esteem of the subject and his long dead but eerily relevant family members. Devote some long stretches of time to reading this book, and you will savor it for many years to come. Who could have guessed disappointment and disillusionment could be so rewarding? Its message of hope when all is hopeless is probably one that each of us needs to learn in our journey through life's trenches, but it's not for the weak -- You'll need courage to meet up with yourself in this one.
Rating:  Summary: a fantastic book Review: If I had more time to devote to writing this review, I would, but I wanted to give it justice in just a few words. The thing that struck me most about this novel was Wally Lamb's amazing ability to create and portray such complex, dynamic characters. I have never been so moved and so inspired by a novel as I was by "I Know This Much is True." The book had me laughing, sobbing, and generally feeling disappointed when I finished the last page because the experience was over. I HIGHLY recommend this book, if nothing else, for the way that it allows the reader to sympathize (if not empathize, as I did) with the realities of mental illness in the family, among other themes. I cannot wait for Wally Lamb's next venture -- I check book stores and the Internet frequently, just waiting for the good news. If you want a novel rich in plot and character, and that could potentially change your life -- read this book.
Rating:  Summary: Long book but mostly worthy Review: This is a book that drew me in, and it will you too, if you enjoy psychology and lots of dialogue concerning psychiatrist/patient interaction. This book also offers views from different perspectives concerning the lives of the people in one family, particularly the main character. It is a long read, but well enough written that the length is tolerable. the ending becomes a little trite, but nevertheless still plausible.
Rating:  Summary: Anxiously awaiting another by Wally Lamb Review: I have read all of Wally's books, and can honestly say that he is probably my favorite author next to Fynn(Anna). I even got my mother to read "I Know This Much Is True"(all 900+ pages!!!). The depth at which he writes is nothing short of brilliance. If you get the chance........READ IT!!! You won't be disappointed!
Rating:  Summary: Unbelievable! Review: I have read all 3 of Wally Lambs books and each one is unreal! This book had me gasping all the way until the end. Such an excellent book and I will never forget the characters. I felt like I was right there with them the whole time. Must read!
Rating:  Summary: READ THIS BOOK!!! Review: This was by far the best book I have ever read. I was hesitant to read it initially because it is so long, but once I started, I couldn't put it down! Being a twin myself, I found it particularly emotional. There was nothing I did not like about this book
Rating:  Summary: A safe bet for a great read Review: I read this book a couple of years ago and I remember the book fondly.The book is long enough that you really get to know and empathise with the characters.Wally Lamb manages to make the reader care about characters with all-too-human emotions: feelings that loyal brothers and united families are not supposed to have are expressed through a very frank narrative.There are no superhuman individuals in this book - and it makes them all the more likeable, as well as believable.Wally Lamb's novel reads beautifully and I was sad to finish it.I unreservedly recommend this book: it'll keep you company long after you have finished it.
Rating:  Summary: fabulous! Review: I loved this book! I have a brother-in-law who is schizophrenic, and this book reminded me so much of my husband's struggles to help his brother. This book is a must-read for anyone trying to deal with mental illness in a family member.
Rating:  Summary: Best book I've ever read! Review: This is, so far, *the* best book I have ever read! I'm mainly a non-fiction fan, but this one does, as another review stated 'suck you in'....mainly because of the 'flawed' characters, who are so incredibly believable.....as though they're our own family members, friends or neighbors. It truly seems as though you're reading a true story from the heart of one man. There are a few books that can literally make you cry....this is one of those books.
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