I read this book on my Kindle. I mention this because it has a bearing on the review that I will write. I had a love/hate relationship with this book. It is a very short book and, for that reason, I was able to continue on to the end even when I felt I wanted to kick the main character and the author both. I also want to say that overall, this was an entertaining book, and for me also as an American, a cross cultural experience. It confirmed to me my notion that people in Scandinavian countries are not only a bit more eccentric than Americans, but also that being eccentric is perfectly culturally acceptable. In the US, people want very much to conform but also they look down on anyone who is not outwardly successful. We are very judgmental. Success and conformity are what is expected. But in reading books written by Scandinavian authors and also in having visited Iceland, I have the feeling that in general Scandinavians are very tolerant of each other's foibles. They are kind to each other. It is very reassuring to know that such a culture exists.
In keeping with the style of this book, here is my review.
This is what I liked about the book.
1- The main character is endearing.
2- The tone is melancholy and gentle.
3- The relationship between the brothers is complex but is portrayed in very simple anecdotes.
4- The main character's father does not like Americans.
5- The characters in the story use faxes even though they could use email.
6- Several deep philosophical issues are discussed in a simple way.
7- Spoiler alert ..................... the story ends on an upbeat note.
This is what I disliked about the book.
1- The main character is supposed to be 23 but acts like he is 10 or 12.
2- A large portion of the book is taken up with silly entries from a card catalog at the library.
3- A large portion of the book is taken up with silly lists of tree maintenance logs for NYC's Park Department.
4- All these entries are so tiny on the Kindle that you need a magnifying glass to read them.
5- Lise, the romantic interest, does not have enough to say and she is worth listening to.
6- The main character is obsessed with lists.
I think you will find the book funny, sad, frustrating, and thought provoking.
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
Follow the authors
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.
Add a debit or credit card to save time when you check out
Convenient and secure with 2 clicks. Add your card
Customers who bought this item also bought
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on January 19, 2021
Reviewed in the United States on August 24, 2006
Reviewed in the United States on May 4, 2015
Reviewed in the United States on September 5, 2019
Reviewed in the United States on April 24, 2021
Top reviews from other countries
Amazon Customer
Scandi humour and human connection concocted in a clever, simple book.
Reviewed in France on April 28, 2019