The Case of Lucy Bending

Rating:
Summary: To Remember...
Review: I first read this book about 10 years ago and, to this very day, when I am asked what book I would recommend as a suspenseful and dramatic read, The Case of Lucy Bending is the first thought to materialize on my lips. In my opinion, along with Lawrence Sanders' "The Third Deadly Sin", it is one of the most thrilling and captivating books I've ever read - and I've read many! It touches on situations that society would like to ignore or brush under a rug - even in this day - but are undeniably happening.

The Case of Lucy Bending is not for the faint of heart. It is a brazen tale of a little girl who is dealing with issues no young person should be exposed to. It is not a 'dark' read by any means; there are many comical moments throughout the book and heartfelt ones as well. It will leave a definite impression with you. One you will never forget.

Rating:
Summary: Disturbing, but NOT soft-core porn
Review: Just have to defend this book, which I have read many times and find a great achievement of plot, pacing, and particularly characterization. It does indeed involve a variety of disturbing subject matter, and some involves children (though Sanders clearly does not condone it). But it is not soft-core porn, for goodness' sake. It uses sex to keep your attention...what an unusual concept!! ...

Rating:
Summary: Disturbing, but NOT soft-core porn
Review: Just have to defend this book, which I have read many times and find a great achievement of plot, pacing, and particularly characterization. It does indeed involve a variety of disturbing subject matter, and some involves children (though Sanders clearly does not condone it). But it is not soft-core porn, for goodness' sake. It uses sex to keep your attention...what an unusual concept!! ...

Rating:
Summary: Soft-Core Porn -- it deserves zero stars
Review: This book is one of Sanders' better ones. It takes place in South Florida (where Sanders' lived) with a host of interesting characters. It has something for everyone: Sex, drugs, murder and everything else except rock n roll. This book was published in 1982 with some very insightful observations about the society in which we live in and it still rings true today.

Rating:
Summary: Soft-Core Porn -- it deserves zero stars
Review: This disgusting story about a seductive 8-year-old nymphet and her psychiatrist is truly abominable. The girl fondles men, knows the fine art of kissing and adult subtleties. She has an older brother who is a brainless satyr; a middle school brother who is neurotic, miserable and confused about his own sexuality; a younger brother who is a genius, a barely mentioned mother and a father who keeps feelings at bay with jokes and sexual quips. Her brother Eddy is something like this. He uses people, males and females sexually and for profit. He becomes the "boy toy" of a summer woman who finally drops him; he flaunts his sexuality by wearing skimpy clothing and relating everything to sex.

This book has nobody in it you can like and the story is really soft core porn. It is not about loving, healthy, normal sexuality. Even Lucy's psychiatrist seems somewhat of a pedophile. This book is a big waste. The warning label that should accompany it should warn people not to waste their time or money.

Don't read it.