Rating: 
Summary: Odd cover, fantastic book
Review: Perhaps Sneaky Pete snuck this paperback cover concept past Maxx Barry in one of Barry's weaker moments. It has next to nothing to do with the book...in fact, it's a distraction once you start to get wrapped up in the world of Scat and 6. Thankfully, that happens on Page 1. So don't let the cover put you off from buying and reading it. Like the creative concepts that are the Holy Grail of this work, the inventive virtuosity that Barry displays in 'Syrup' is stunning. It's a fabulously funny riff on marketing, filmmaking, and office politics. And there are some damn good ideas in here, too. The concept that Scat develops for the Classic Coke summer promotion (tagline: 'Wouldn't you die for a Coke?') is something I'd put on TV in a heartbeat (you have to read the book to appreciate the inspiration behind this line). One further item of note: very interesting to see the list of books under the amazon.com title "Customers who bought Syrup also bought..." They're non-fiction treatises on the deconstruction on marketing and advertising. I devoured these 294 pages in 24 hours and never had a better time reading a book.
Rating:
Summary: Do you want to be famous?
Review: You're either going to love this book to death or just not get it. If you don't get it, you'll think it's shallow: if you do, you'll think it's subversive, viciously funny, and the story of your life. Barry combines a fast, open style of writing with a deadly eye for black humor: the result is the best first novel I've ever read. But since the author has the first chapter online at his web site, why listen to reviews? Go read some for yourself.
Rating: 
Summary: Give me a break, people!
Review: For outsiders to the world of Marketing who think this is some kind of quick-witted expose on how things "really" happen . . . well, shucks, that couldn't be farther from the truth, people. This is Marketing doing a Marketing job on itself! Think infinite regress! I found Syrup to be a barely-readable, gimmicky, LA imitation of Jay McInerney. Gimme a break. Kudos to Barry for cashing in but I won't be running to the bookstores for his next novel (if ever there is one).
Rating:
Summary: This book ruined me for all others
Review: I almost didn't read this book at first 'cause the cover looked like a Sweet Valley High novel. Imagine my surprise when it turned out to be one of the best books I've ever read. Absolutely HYSTERICAL and engrossing. As suspense ridden and addictive as a Raymond Chandler novel, but more delicious as everyone in it is a beautiful/sleazy/freakishly smart/ LA dwelling Pop Culture creating mogul. I was addicted to it, even forewent human company on lunch breaks so I could finish it. Absolutely loved it, and it ruined me for all other books after it.
Rating:
Summary: Couldn't put it down
Review: My friend gave me this book to read in class a nd took it away at the end and never let me finish it! I could've killed her! This book is a riot, the wit is wondertful, and the characters are well developed. I can't wait for Maxx Barry's second book!
Rating:
Summary: Never heard of this before I picked it up.
Review: I must first admit that I spend too much time thinking of ways to be both rich and famous, much like Scat, the main character of Syrup. The lifestyle is pelted at us from every angle at a very early age but few of us ever actually take a bite out of it. This is a novel that comically portrays an average creative who perceives that his reality is almost incredibly amazing... but not. The only author I can think to compare Barry to is Nick Hornby in regards to his ability to peer into the mind of the American Male. Pick it up and don't schedule any secret, back-stabbing corporate meetings until well after you've finished it... You'll want to spend at least a few hours wracking your brain for your own million-dollar ideas.
Rating:
Summary: A Clever Send-Up of American Marketing
Review: Australian Max Barry has captured the absurdity of American corporate marketing in this humorous novel about Scat, a young man desperate to cash in one of his million dollar ideas. When his concept for an ultra-cool cola called Fukk leaves Scat homeless and penniless, the fun begins. Told in short punchy scenes reminiscent of 30-second television spots, this novel has a lively, page turning pace. If you enjoy cultural satire and fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek humor, this book is for you.
Rating:
Summary: The single funniest book I have ever read
Review: Brilliant satire. Not just laugh out loud funny but laugh so hard you wake the neighbors funny. I kept having to tell people the premise of the book so I'd be able to share my some hilarious joke with them. Silly for sure, but so clever.
Rating:
Summary: Slick and savvy
Review: This book is slick and savvy -- probably just like Donald Trump's boogers. So funny, I laughed so hard I almost wet my britches, but luckily, I read in the bathtub, so it didn't matter much how hard I laughed. And just as I thought we were going to move on to an action scene that would allow my facial muscles to relax -- Phwap! -- Maxx throws in a case study! Thank goodness Maxx is Australian. Had he been American, he would have been snatched up to create political ads by now. Can't wait for his next book.
Rating:
Summary: Wicked Funny
Review: Maxx Barry is excellent. I certainly hope he writes again. I couldn't put this book down. If you are in marketing (or just get a kick out of marketing) you will love his biting wit, cutting insight and pounding pace. The premise is great, the storyline is light and fast, and the writing is excellent.
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