Books most popular in the United States●Classics

Release date: 2010-05-04 $1.99

Release date: 2021-01-05 Genre:Fiction & Literature $1.99

Release date: 1975-09-01 $9.99

Comments

1. A grand step into a brilliant universe - Dune is one of the most applauded and highly recommended books in the entire sci-fi genre. And it’s been that way for over years. So why is it that even in when all of modern sci-fi and it’s predecessors have have taken inspiration from and tried to improve upon the standards set by Herbert, Dune still manages to stay not just relevant, but almost fresh? It’s because despite inspiring the likes of Bradbury and George Lucas, Dune is so vastly original, that only someone as Tolkienesc as Herbert would be able to write something to match Dune. Having read this as a - year old (it took a while to finish, I’m a slow reader) it has taught me so much about what I need to learn to better myself as a writer, which isn’t bad. I’m currently on the third dune book, and I am absolutely enthralled with the overarching lore, and am excited to read the next books. Do yourself a favor. Read Dune.
2022-09-28

2. Prescient - So I finally read DUNE. Not sure what took me so long as I have always loved sci-fi. But the detail & force of the Villeneuve film compelled me. I was not to be disappointed. Quite the opposite. It was extremely entertaining but what I appreciated most was the breadth, research & depth of thought behind the writing. And how ironic is the subject of prescience & the ability to foresee through time. It’s as if Herbert was looking straight into our current moment.
2022-06-15

3. Intense dialogue and world building - Great story that heavily focuses on the politics concerning a desert planet that contains no water but does contain a spice that everyone in the universe wants to get their hands on. Heavy dialogue and a lot of mind games through conversation. Amazing world building. Make sure you use the appendix for words you don’t know that are created for the story (Herbert loved to make his own creations that only exist in dune), although most unknown words and concepts are eventually explained through dialogue throughout the story.
2022-05-27

4. Fantastic Sci Fi Novel - I decided to pick this up after watching the movie since I loved the sci fi elements of the film. Overall, this is a great story that blends science fiction, politics, and religious themes. The lore is by far the most interesting aspect of this book - the deep world building and Herbert’s great writing really help set the stage for this epic pretty well. I thought the ending was a bit rushed, and the novel ends rather abruptly, but this was still a great read.
2022-04-24

5. Dune review - A groundbreaking novel I wish I knew about years ago, but thanks to the new movie I finally read the book. It is an absolute classic filled with war and politics with sci fi. It has an amazing and memorable set of characters and the only take away is that the dialogue drags on sometimes and really that was the only bug I had, all in all it was great! /
2022-03-21

6. AMAZING STORY I HIGHLY RECOMMEND - I read this book after watching the movie that came out and WOW does it live up to the hype. My only critique would be that I wanted to see more of the love story between Paul and Chani but I understand this is a book following a story of politics and religion, not a love story.
2022-03-17

7. So far from home, but so close. - Affinity for the words of a sci-fi sculptor, I have not. Yet, my attention was wrapped around every paragraph Herbert formed, only to be redirected to the next. It is now am I able to see how so many works to follow—from younger pens—were chiseled while casting an eye back to this original. I’ll be back, Frank.
2022-01-20

8. Watched the movie then read this book. Bravo. - What an unbelievable capacity to visualize such a universe in the author’s time. I watched the movie before I read the book from a friend’s suggestion. It might take a sequel to cover everything in this book. Frank Herbert inspires me to dream beyond the limits of our society. I was allowed a peak into a distant, possible future in which humanity could have evolved to be the beings that Herbert dreamed. As much as there is a sense of fiction, it felt within reach.
2021-12-18

9. A tale as sweeping as the sands of the place for which this book is named… - Many people complain that this book is too “dense” or too “smart” for the average reader and I tell you thusly, this is not the case. Frank Herbert weaves a tale of political intrigue within intrigue and not once does one feel lost in the world he created. There are many terms in it that may be confusing but there is a provided glossary if further clarification is needed (the Internet is available to you as well). There is not much detailed description of the action and battles that takes place in the story but character dialogue descriptions of them leave it up to the reader’s imagination of how it unfolded. The romance between Paul and Chani could have been described better, since this is also a young boy becoming a man/coming-of-age tale. Overall, this book is an excellent jumping off point for those just getting into sci-if and will be a stable to those already in love with the genre. If you liked Game of Thrones and Star Wars you will love the word of Dune (and both took inspiration from Frank Herbert’s work).
2021-10-30

10. The Original World Builder - “Dune” was unleashed on the world the same year I was. Though it took me years to find it, when I did I was changed forever. Stories like “Tarzan” and “John Carter of Mars” or even “I, Robot”, “Lucifer’s Hammer”, and—dare I say it—“: A Space Odessa” became small. Frank Herbert had a message for humanity decades before we became concerned about peak oil, nuclear winter, or global warming. In “Dune,” he’s telling us that we’re part of our planet, and it’s part of us. And in the narrative, he’s optimistic humanity can be so much bigger than we are. It’s easy to forget, too, this book was written under the dark veil of the Cold War, with not-so-thinly veiled references to the Soviet Union, United States, and United Nations. No wonder this book had such a huge influence on the teenager I was, once reading it while participating in bomb drills under my desk. I’ve read it more times than I can remember, and I find something new every time. Thankfully, Denis Villenuv has introduced a new generation to the story. I watched the movie, and saw Arrakis through a different, wider angle lens. If the cover works and introduces a new generation to the masterpiece series Frank Herbert wrote, I welcome it. Now, please excuse me, I must get back to Geidi Prime, Pieter de Vries, and Baron Harkonnen as they plan their vile plot….
2021-10-29

11. A decent classic - I read this because it’s a classic and can see why but somehow I was let down. I like sci fi and fantasy and could see why it must have been considered great for it’s time. I found it to have too much jargon and not enough character development. When people died I didn’t feel invested in the characters. The world itself is fascinating and the general story but lacks for me.
2021-10-29

12. A book I won’t soon forget - The book at first is admittedly— a little slow. But one would be insane to expect anything else in a book that is pages. The story is incredible, the world building is magnificent, and the universe is wonderful. I am glad that I read it. (Also ignore the guy who accused the book of “anti blackness”. One would have to be psychotic to see anti blackness.) Also, why are people suddenly giving it star just because they changed the cover? Geez get over it, the words inside are still the same. They just changed the way the cover looked. Imagine dragging down the ratings of a good book just because you don’t like the new cover. The book is great.
2021-10-28

13. Amazing Sci-Fi - The flagship novel for sci-fi readers all around the world that is strikingly foreshadowing our own future on its current path. A must read for sci-fi/ fantasy fans alike. Lets hope the films live up to the hype. One thing I’d like to see is the ability to change the book cover back to the one from the set so that my collection looks complete but that’s a personal complaint cough Apple cough
2021-08-26

14. One Star for Book One - This book... was. I’m not even sure what to do with this book. There are three “books” within this tome. They all seem to be three completely different stories, with totally different feels to them, with an unclear time difference between the second and third. The first book is really good. The characters are likeable. The intrigue found within the world built there is great. Unfortunately, from the beginning of book two, the story goes quickly downhill and become a hot mess.
2021-08-19

15. No anti-blackness - The review about anti-blackness is incorrect. The only time skin color is mentioned, it’s stated to be olive. For everyone. It follows the theory that all ethnicities about , years into the future (when Dune takes place) will merge to be an olive skin with the dominant traits of other ethnicities.
2021-08-09

Release date: 2014-07-08 $13.99

Comments

1. This Book is A Living Hype Train! - As many high school kids probably have, I got this book assigned for my English class. I had heard of this book a couple of times, and many have stated that it was one of their all-time favorite books and an instant classic. And I could not be happier to say that I % agree with them! Originally, I thought I was going to easily lose interest in this book, as many kids my age do. Call me an old soul, but this book easily is in my top three favorites of all time and I plowed through it in about two weeks! This was definitely the best school book assigned to me that I have ever read! I loved it so much that I even got my own personal copy so I could read it over and over again! You won’t regret it.
2021-06-13

2. A Masterpiece - This is one of the best books I’ve ever read. My friend let me borrow her copy, and I was hooked. The majority of the book gives off a calm, summery feeling that you got as a child whenever school ended for the year. Many of the characters are likable, the plot line is intriguing, and the writing is beautiful.
2019-11-29

3. To Kill a Mockingbird- yr old perspective - I have never had a book hit me as hard emotionally as To Kill a Mockingbird. This book challenges your mind with countless hidden messages and the many political issues facing the reader. I have never been this emotionally impacted by a novel, and I encourage everyone to read it.
2019-03-01

4. Beautiful classic. Must read! - The first time I ever read TKAM was back in th grade of middle school. It’s been almost years since then, and I’ve read this book three times in total. To Kill a Mockingbird written by Harper Lee takes place in a fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama during the s when the Great Depression occurred and racial inequality was a huge issue. Lawyer Atticus Finch teaches his children Jem and Scout the reality to racial discrimination, proper morality, and better understandment of people. I love this book for all sorts of aspects. This book uses great diction, although it’s understandable with context clues. This helps me improve my own writing. Additionally, I admire the characters, especially Atticus. He is a prime example of a qualified human, who acknowledges flaws yet does not show any sign of prejudice towards it. This helps me with my wellbeing and puts critical thinking upon my own morality. This book contains a lot of suspense too with the children’s fabrication of Boo Radley. Overall, I admire this book and it’s no question to why it’s a classic.
2019-01-03

Release date: 1974-04-01 $9.99

Comments

1. Still unsure how to pronounce ‘Tleilaxu’ - A worthy sequel to the first novel. What I liked about this one is that the narrative felt more focused. This sequel expands upon the Dune universe with new characters and deeper lore. The two main plots tie in well at the the end too. And, of course, the novel is wonderfully written.
2022-07-23

2. THIS BOOK BROKE ME - As the first book it’s wonderfully written and engaging but WOW it broke me in every way it could. My heart is in shreds and I can only pray the third gives me renewed vigor to finish the series. No spoilers but uhhhh NO ONE IS SAFE in this story. Incredible political commentary though, for sure.
2022-03-17

3. Phenomenal Sequel - Instead of trying to surpass the achievements of Dune, this sequel capitalizes on the former’s triumphs by expanding on the themes of political intrigue, predestination, power locus, and the nature of despots. It eschews action for philosophical underpinnings and delivers a plot showing the overlapping curses of prescience, deification, and leadership. Herbert avoids cheapening the first novel by not giving Paul a happy ending. Paul, now Emperor, develops an awareness that his visions, his reluctant exaltation, and his people shape him into a monster, commit atrocities in his name, and lead him to myriad ruinations. A lesser author would’ve succumbed to fan service, but Herbert instead gave a unique story that has a gravity of its own.
2021-11-12

4. Necessary Prologue - Slower than its predecessor but necessary to set the next in the series; very much the second book of a trilogy. Dune Messiah shows the depths of the Aestrides’ gifts and commitments to the timeline. I enjoyed the plots and weaves and very much am looking forward to the conclusion in Children of Dune.
2021-10-24

5. Decent follow-up - Pretty good follow-up to the original Dune. While not as good, or as long, as the original it still had its moments. The villains aren’t quite as intriguing as the Harkonnens. While it might sound like I down on this book, I did actually enjoy it, Still worth a read for Dune fans. You won’t be disappointed.
2020-11-19

6. Good, but not great. - This book was decent, but when compared to Dune, it is a pale shadow. Dune gripped the reader from the start, kept you reading page after page. The development of the story was rich and flowed smoothly. Events transpired without confusion or large gaps in the story. This book lacked almost all of those elements. Unless you are dedicated fan of the Dune series I would recommend stopping with Dune.
2012-11-02

Release date: 2019-08-13 $9.99

Comments

1. How is this book so revered? - I don’t get the appeal of this book. I hate the main character, he repeatedly says “he hates” this or is “depressed by” that. If you cut that dialogue out this book would be pages shorter. It’s actually really annoying. I had to force myself to finish this book and I’m not happy I did.
2023-03-02

2. I've no idea what the hype is - this book is hailed by many as a timeless classic, so I began reading excited to see what the hype was all about. by chapter it was a pain to continue. Holden is just a whiney brat with awful opinions on the world presented in the just judgemental way. it's extremely difficult listening to people that judgemental. my only takeaway from this book is stay away from anyone who would rate this more than stars.
2022-12-03

3. Favorite book of all time - I recently re-read this. We read it in school but it never really stuck with me. Honestly the whole time I was reading I kept waiting for something major to happen or a plot twist. It never did. It seemed to just be the normal day to day of a teen. Full disclosure I have bi polar disorder and other mental illness. And when the realization came at the end and the sudden rush came over me at once I cried til I couldn’t breathe. No book has ever related to me so perfectly and no other ever could. If you start to feel like the book isn’t really going anywhere just keep going, I promise you will see. Especially if you suffer from mental illness. / would recommend!
2022-09-02

4. Love this book - Til death do us part. I read this book a million times and I’m still not bored with it. It resonates with me, I understand the main character. For those who have never faced or seen this hardship of depression and grieving will consider the protagonist annoying but he is simply misunderstood. I say give it a go.
2022-08-13

5. Simply Put - Catcher in the rye is a unique story about a boy from upper city with mental issues. His views are life are so dark that even with all the opportunities and support he receives from multiple people he still can’t seem to find the motivation to find to accomplish even the most basic of achievements. J.D did a great job of painting the mindset and views of the main character and used every interaction with another to further the image. This book is a classic
2022-06-21

6. Worst protagonist in any novel I’ve ever read - It isn’t just that this protagonist is unlikeable, which I typically associate as a net positive rather than a net negative, but instead it’s that this character is without a doubt the most annoying protagonist I’ve ever had the displeasure to read. It was an absolute chore to get through this tedious and aggravating book, I only finished it to ward off anyone who’d try to tell me it gets better by the end— which it does not. While I understand the overall message the author was attempting to convey, the reality is that the protagonist is just plain annoying, and you have to deal with this annoyance for pages. The irony here is that he’s mostly annoying because he spends the entirety of this novel complaining about everything, and now I’m complaining about his complaining. So infuriating!
2021-09-29

7. One to come back to! - I love this book, especially coming back to it again and again. There’s no more serious disillusionment than realizing the nuance of the world and that everything isn’t so simple, no matter what lens you use. And through the eyes of the disaffected teen Holden Caulfield, JD Salinger helps everyone feel a little less sure of themselves, and a little more jaded. Or, maybe, a little less, depending on where one is in life.
2019-08-18

8. Amazing - This is a book I was always hearing you should read and it would change your life. I read Catcher In The Rye on my th birthday. It did change my life!! It changed my life because I had always felt different an outsider. I felt like the character was speaking to me. I just related so much and I never expected that. I love the beauty of the writing and Holden Claufield , so imperfect that he is perfect!! I love this book so much, great literature that will move you
2019-08-17

Release date: 2022-11-17 $0.99

Comments

1. It was good I guess? - I didn’t really understand it. I still read the whole book thinking at the end maybe I would understand. I guess it just is mental illness awareness? I don’t know, I didn’t understand it much. I understood what was going on and the storyline but I just don’t understand the significance. I guess that’s life though.
2022-11-24

Release date: 1959-07-27 $4.99

Comments

1. Slow read, but worth it in the end - Just finished reading the paperback. I think this book does a good job of exploring what happens when people in leadership don’t meet the needs of their people. I also think it does a good job juxtaposing savagery. The first character we’re introduced to, Ralph, helps to create order, but finds himself in utter chaos. His adversary (you’ll know who it is after reading it), and his newly formed tribe are violent and chaotic, but surprisingly organized. After witnessing his evolution, I found myself wondering who the real savage is in the end. Is it Ralph? Or his counterpart and the tribe he forms? It does take a minute for the getting to get good so patience is key. I would be lying were I to say I didn’t find myself bored at times while reading. I think uncovering the ideas in this book is more interesting than the story itself. But still, it’s worth a read.
2021-09-05

2. Lord of the Flies - The amount of savagery in this book is perfect. The reason why he made it that way is because it wouldn’t be unique. If it was G rated then it wouldn’t have the same impact it if it was that way. It would be boring if it was G rated. Also kids these days can’t handle the intensity of this book. That’s why some schools have banned other great books like Call of the Wild or White Fang. Note to kids ( most not all) Guys stop being snowflakes, schools ban Dr. Seuss’s books... and that is how crazy our world is becoming. I bet by the time I’m they will ban stuff like Barney the dinosaur because it’s “ inappropriate and scary “ Yeah, a talking Dinosaur is scary. Anyway, if you completed this book then GOOD JOB.
2021-03-10

3. STUPID. - I hate this book. I was bored reading this. The chapters are too long, they said a swear word, none of the characters are telling the story, and I didn’t even understand the words I last read. What does this mean!? This book is terrible. Who would want a big fatty as the main character!? I didn’t even want to read lord of the flies. This the most retarded and dumbest book ever. I didn’t even want to read it. So boring BOO. My dad forced me to read lord of the flies!!! if I would build a time machine, I would travel back to the year and tell the author to not make this crap. Never again. I would prefer something else like: hatchet.
2020-05-14

4. Great Book - If you rated this low, it is because you don’t understand the meaning of the book. It is about the fragility of society and civilization dissolving. It represents a juxtaposition between orderly democracy and chaotic dictatorship. If you found it boring, you are exactly like Jack and his savages, bored with life. This book is meant to make you feel bad, so you can question how you live.
2020-05-13

5. Perfect - I loved the fact that this book greatly shows how an improper government could lead to the revelation of the animal instincts inside us. While it was dark and brutal, I love the different messages that each character represented, and that it would be a great teaching lesson for any major event that could mirror what would happen. Everyone should read it, not because it’s a classic, but because there’s a lesson to be learned throughout every chapter, and it all starts in Chapter .
2019-11-06

6. lord of flies - I enjoyed this book very much but the ending was shocking and disappointing to me. I feel there could have been a more exciting way to end the book. I was definitely shocked by the ending but it was not at all how i wanted the book to end. Other than the ending i loved he thrill and message of the story.
2019-08-20

7. LOTF - My favorite book ever since I was years old. I was a very advanced reader and my dad told me to read it for a project. The description was brilliant, the characters felt so real, and the emotion and sense of reality were beyond compare any other book. The ending will make you sweat, then cry. The symbolism is exceptional. This is a novel that you will never forget.
2016-07-12

8. Lord of the Flies - I had to read this for high school and didn't like it. Now keep mind it was written a LONG time ago so the language is much different than we use now. But the author made it very hard to know what's going on and had few descriptive words. I wouldn't suggest reading it on your spare time.
2015-09-17

9. The Lord Lives - Lord of the Flies by William Golding expresses and embodies the primitive, animal-like traits that every human being naturally lives with. He creates the picture of how quickly people can revert back to uncivilized lifestyles when their surroundings change. It takes place during WWII, and some of the boys' fathers serve in the Royal Navy. The boys attend a private, all-boys school in England. Their plane crashes on a secluded island, and the boys must fend for themselves. It is the epitome of "boys being boys." I personally enjoy and understand the deeper meaning of this book, despite the mixed reviews it garners from critics. Readers should beware of the gory and savage lifestyles the boys embrace because of their unforgiving environment. I would recommend this book to any guy over the age of . The plot centers around how people revert to uncivilized manners when they lose human interaction. It portrays the inner animal in everyone. To people who understand the book, it is not only a fascinating realization about life, but also a psychologist's dream. I found it interesting and entertaining, though somewhat slow to the action. SPOILER ALERT: the "action" is killing! Nature eliminates the only difference between humans and less intelligent animals: the ability to reason. Once the boys lose the ability to reason, it becomes a free-for-all, and they develop a savage desire to kill.
2014-10-31

10. SPOILERS. My thoughts on the ending - The book "The Lord of the Flies" ends with the boys being rescued by a navy officer amongst their fighting. Personally, I did not like the ending of the book "The Lord of the Flies". I did not like the ending because it ending very suddenly, and the author does not tell you anything further than the officer telling them he will take them home. I like my books to have a closed ending that will leave me with no further questions. The ending was very well written, as was the whole book, but it still left me with questions. In the end of "The Lord of the Flies", there is a superb example of irony. When Jack is chasing Ralph around the island, trying to kill him, Ralph keeps hiding, so Jack lights fire to the bushes. This fire spread to until the whole island is on fire which causes the naval officer to come and rescue them. This is ironic because the whole book Ralph always said that the most important thing is keeping their signal fire going for rescue. This part of the ending, I enjoyed.
2014-04-08

11. English II Class Assignment - I had to reread this book for my english class this year after previously reading some years before, and was mostly bored. This book is a very good book club book and discussion book, however the plot is very slow moving and drag on for chapters. In the books defense though, Lord of the Flies does portray the loss of innocence and the malevolent nature of humankind very well.
2014-01-08

12. Symbolism to its Finest - This book is truly amazing. The whole book in how it symbolizes society and how each individual character represent and plays a different role. For instance Piggy represents what society should be. I've only read the first three chapters and have already been emerged in the books amazing symbolism. You can read it two ways one of or the plot or two for the amazing symbolism and great lesson to the story. For the people that read it and say its boring. Well sorry for your lack of understanding of this books true amazingness".
2013-11-18

13. Amazing writing. - This is an amazing book. The writing is outstanding and the whole idea of the book is fantastic. It is a very sad and depressing story, and yes, you will cry! This book is recommended to any th grade reader like myself. Everything about it is outstanding. But if you are sensitive to this kind of thing, I will warn you it is very graphic and very sad, then you should not read it.
2013-11-05

14. Amazing Work of American Literature - Lord of the Flies was one of my two summer reading books for English, the other being Of Mice and Men. As the title of this review suggests, this book is one of my favorite reads that I have had a pleasure to read. If you liked The Hunger Games and Divergent then you will definitely like this book.
2013-10-20

Release date: 2003-05-27 $1.99

Comments

1. The tragic story of a man that dared to rise above his class - Reading this book as an adult was something else. The nuances that you miss when you read as someone that hasn't been hurt or seen more of the world are glaringly apparent as a more experienced reader. Narrating the legend of a man that dared to rise above his class with whatever he could in order to impress a vapid socialite is heartbreaking. As it's been since the beginning of time, the rich really do get away with murder. The part of the novel I never understood is why no one, not even Myrtle's sister, ever outed Tom as the person having an affair with her sister. Nick never told his cousin who her husband's mistress was nor did he ever mention to Gatsby. The injustice of it all was a hard pill to swallow while reading this novel because Mystle's death needed to be resolved, at least for me, and justice be served. By Nick sharing the story later on or at least telling someone about it. But I guess the justice of this is that Daisy got the husband she deserved, a cheating, vapid man, that will continue to lie and cheat on her until death.
2021-10-11

2. Objectively Flawed. - Being familiar with storytelling myself, quite a few major if not fatal flaws stood out when reading this. I understand why this story has such cultural significance in the United States, but it doesn’t hide the fact many decisions Fitzgerald made plagued what could’ve been a great dramaztion of his own life. Telling the story from Nick’s perspective is by far one of the weakest ways of telling this story. Nick’s perspective only makes the intentions of every other character needlessly abscured. Imagine how tense and dramatic the story could be from the perspective of Daisy or Tom. Nick’s naive character doesn’t add much at all to the dynamics and themes of James Gatz, Tom, or Daisy. In addition, Gatsby’s mysterious aura is vastly overplayed. His inter-personal relations don’t shine with the same lush emotions that Scott possessed and could have implemented from his own life and his troubled marriage with Zelda. There were so many things the story could’ve done better for the sake of telling what could’ve been a heartbreaking yet sober battle of lust and materialism. Ultimately, The Great Gatsby is a disappointingly flat story.
2021-02-10

3. Awful and overrated. - This book has no reason to have the status that is gained over the years. The Great Gatsby uses lazy plot elements to advance the story, and lacks character depth. The most obvious part is when they take each other’s car for the drive. Why did they do that? There is no rational reason to do that. They only did it so the mechanic would mistakenly kill Gatsby in the end. Why does Tom and Jay hang out if Tom hates him? Why would you invite someone to your house if you don’t like them, then sit them next to your wife? Even though it’s obvious that he likes her. None of the main characters are likable in anyway expect for Nick. They are just swallow people that you hope twist their ankles. I understand we’re aren’t suppose to relate to them because of their status, but you just don’t care for anyone of them. Why should we feel bad for J? Because he can’t be with the women he loves? Why does even deserve her in the first place? Also, why doesn’t she leave if Tom cheats on her? She is portrayed as a the spoiled woman archetype with no depth. The Great Gatsby is just awful. Unlike other books I don’t like, I can understand why they are famous, but the Great Gatsby is just awful. Half the book is plot holes with unbearable characters.
2020-09-07

4. LOVE IT!! - I read the book for my English class, and then I discovered I loved the book and the movie. I don't like to read the book but this one I actually enjoyed while I was riding and then I saw the movie I had to buy one for myself as well, is a great story. it was the perfect story to read and one of my favourites book in High school ( funny thing i dont read books)
2018-12-05

5. High School Curriculum - Read this for English and let me tell you, the language of the book was quite hard to understand at certain parts. I don't understand how this became a classic either, it's just meh. The story/plot is great. I absolutely love the idea. The fact of the matter is that it could have been executed much better. All in all, only read it if you absolutely have to. If you don't need to, I'm sure one of the movies will do a good enough job.
2018-03-18

6. A bit overrated, I think. - I haven't read many "American classics" so this might be affecting my opinion here, but I have read much better and older books that cover the same topics 'The Great Gatsby' does whilst doing a better job at arresting my attention. I guess if you are entirely ignorant to the era in which this novel takes place it may be an enlightening read, but if you are already somewhat familiar beforehand (like myself) then this book has little to offer. 'The Great Gatsby' does NOT do a notable job of showing the dichotomy between the upper and lower class of this period; it only offers a narrow insight into the lives of some well-to-do citizens (and lets be honest; spoiled, rich people act the same regardless of the decade, or century). The nouveau riche gentleman that this book focuses on is interesting—though at times made boring by the narrator's own fickle disinterest. To describe this title in one word, I choose the word staid. Stars. I don't normally do reviews but I was planning to spend my apple credit on a purchase today, only to be told I had insufficient funds. It was then that I was reminded of this purchase—which I had already completely forgotten about within days apparently. I wish I could have my ten dollars back.
2018-02-13

7. The Truth About James Gatz - "Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther.... and one fine morning— So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past." - Nick Carraway (Narrator of F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby") An amazing story about money, power, obsession, and tragedy. Fitzgerald's Jay Gatsby, or James Gatz, teaches us about the craziness in love and light—that having hope is something worth dying for.
2017-05-12

8. One Of The Truly Great Books - It is impossible to capture in this short space what The Great Gatsby really means. It is, always has been, and will remain, one of the truly great books ever written. Along with To Kill A Mockingbird, it is the defining American novel. It captures the constant allure and often tainted reward of our ambition and exploration. Our discovery of this continent and its vast expanse pushed us westward to civilize and inhabit new, unspoiled and innocent places. But then brave and naive souls among us, like Gatsby, and even Nick, came back East to capture the original allure. Gatsby came seeking to remake himself in the image of the young continent's unbridled success. He yearned for the light at the end of Daisy's dock just as the explorers of old had coveted the promise of the new land they had found. But when he captured it -- briefly realized his dream -- it killed him. In death, he discovered the true loneliness and brutality of it all. Reading this book will stay with you forever -- as I can see that it will with my teenage daughter who just read it for the first time. It remains our great story.
2017-01-02

Release date: 2021-06-08 $1.99

Release date: 2021-02-07 $3.99

Release date: 2009-10-13 $11.99

Release date: 1981-05-06 $9.99

Comments

1. Slowly disinterested as the narrative moves forward. - I was excited to start the previous books ( & ) after Dune. They had natural connective tissue and made you want more. When I got to God Emperor yes indeed was it set thousands of years after Paul’s world but it made you feel as if Frank Herbert’s cousin was writing this from a different planet. The dialogue is simple and lost its more nuanced approach to explaining peoples motives, feelings, interactions. It’s bad, this is not a good book. The ending (no spoilers) is not climatic and leaves you thanking the gods it’s over instead of wanted more.
2022-07-11

2. Status Quo Shaken Up - Pretty good story. At first I thought I would be lost or confused since it takes place ,s of years after the first books. However, Herbert does a good job getting readers use to this new status quo of the Dune Universe. It’s different, but it doesn’t have to be a bad thing. I still think the first book is the best up to this point, but I have yet to be disappointed by the series so far.
2021-08-20

3. A New Chapter Begins - It's centuries later and Leto is no longer completely human, which creates complex situations for the Dune universe. This, the fourth book in the series and the first of the second trilogy, is right up there with Dune itself as far as intrigue, characterizations and intelligence. As others have touched on, please read the first three books first, otherwise you'll be completely lost.
2017-02-09

4. Great, but don't start here - I'm not going to give away any of the plot. Just know anyone considering this book needs to keep the preceding books downloaded. This is a very complex story that brilliantly investigates and questions the purpose of religion. Also be aware, in spite of some homosexual undertones, Frank Herbert demonstrates some anti-gay views in the book.
2016-06-29

5. Redemption - I was impressed by book and then decidedly unimpressed by books & . And then this! Wow! I have a newfound respect for Herbert and his insight into human behavior and the machinations of the powerful that even the first book only provided glimpses of. While the story itself is not for everyone, let those with eyes read how deep Herbert's thinking goes. I have so many thoughts that have yet to be provoked by re-readings. I will definitely come back to this book again and again.
2015-08-29

6. As remembered - Probably the tenth time that I've enjoyed this journey into the latter part of Leto Atreides II universe, and the first viewed on a screen rather than on paper. Also the first revisit in more than a decade. The experience was more engaging and difficult to put down than during my first read. Lost sleep, which has always been the indicator of my interest in any novel. Frank Herbert at his absolute best!!!
2011-12-16

7. Dune and sacrifice. - This segment in Dune folklore and history is remarkable in that the author explores deeply the personal flaws and emotions of nearly all main characters. The character studies are deeper than the previous books, as far as I remember. The characters are so involving you tend to ignore the descriptions of the planet Arakis, and the technological marvels of this future age. It's all psychology and subplots, intricate and at times very personal. There is also interesting contrasts between altruistic and selfish characters that add to the emotional involvement of the reader. Even in the most selfish characters you can find compassion and forgiveness for their actions. The self sacrifice of the emperor is moving from the beginning of the book to the very end. To enjoy this book to its fullest, you need to have read the previous Dune books. These new characters of this book owe their complexity and motivations to the Dune legacy started with Paul Muad'Dib.
2010-07-25

Release date: 2020-10-05 $0.99

Release date: 1976-04-21 $9.99

Comments

1. A helluva read! - This follows the Atreides children and their struggle with the legacy left for them. I’ve been devouring this series and this book was an AMAZING follow-up to Dune: Messiah. I almost put down the whole series at the end of Dune: Messiah, but now I can’t wait to read the next one and see where things lead. I’m genuinely grieving Paul Atreides in a way I didn’t expect to come from a book or two.
2022-03-18

2. rd book is so rich and entertaining - I’ve read the first three books in the last three months, and this one is my favorite so far. Of course the st book is legendary in its own right…but this one has so many plot layers and even better character development & payoff. The twins are fascinating and The Preacher element makes it all the more exciting. At times the inner monologue (and dialogue) can be drawn out and overly meandering, but the twists and turns - and literal character ‘transformations’ - keep you turning the pages.
2021-06-26

3. SLOW, BORING, AND TOO LONG - It was excessively long unnecessarily, sans much adventure with long boring mystical dialogue. It should have been only three hundred pages. It is painfully slow and boring, I will no longer read anymore of this series. I gave the series a try by reading the first three book, but no more, and I discourage anyone from reading them.
2019-09-19

4. Awesome - I am awed by the grand scale of the continuing saga and the sometimes shocking revelations that tie back to the first books. There is much commentary on government, religion and their place in humanity that is still relevant today. Herbert was a true visionary who understood human behavior, both good and bad, and the nature of the world we live in that is amazingly accurate on so many levels. It is clear he saw the dangers of our current path of a wasteful, planet destroying society that will only continue to destroy our earth if we as a race do not come together and realize we truly are all one. If we do not before it is too late we are truly doomed as a civilization. People who don’t like this book or the previous Dune Messiah, are likely looking for something lighter with the predictable “hero” and happy ending. However if you are interested, as I am, in what his whole message is and where he will take us next I recommend this book whole heartedly! I am eagerly starting the next book in the series and excited to see the likely continuing tie backs to the previous books to expose the reader to things they may not have realized when they were reading them, until Herbert masterfully gives information and insight that makes one say “ahhh, now I see it”. I believe he had the framework for the whole series in place before ever writing the first book and he grew right along with the stories as he wrote them. If you enjoy reading that requires contemplation and thought this series is for you. Superb.
2019-03-20

5. Drier than the Desert - I couldn't wait to finish this book. First, because I wanted to find out what it was about, but also to find out if all the endless dryness of the writing was worth the time spent struggling through it. The last ten percent of the book did offer some sense of familiarity with the previous books but the other ninety percent was filled up with a Pingpong game of complicated political intrigue punctuated with annoying mythical dogma and stentorian pseudo-Arabic pronouncements. All the drama was about dynasty, jihad, and brinksmanship with very little evidence of emotional content. None of the characters were developed enough to form any empathy with. Herbert has crafted an intricate saga of complicated ideas and motivations but very little of it is relatable on a human scale. I don't think I will be interested in continuing to stagger through the rest of this arid landscape.
2013-12-27

Release date: 2022-01-19 $0.99

Release date: 2022-08-01 $2.99

Comments

1. Good book with harrowing truths - While most of the what was portrayed in this dystopian society is a bit far fetched for our current day world. The generally ideologies behind everything happening in the story is very true and capable of happening, and in some cases, albeit a smaller scale, is happening. Be mindful of what you are constantly hearing, seeing, and reading online or in the news. For the human mind is a gullible one and also one to be easily deceived.
2022-06-25

2. A look into the future(?) - When someone comments on a subject that it is Orwellian this what they’re essentially talking about. This book is simple in its story but has resonated for for decades. Government has full control; for our protection? Assimilate or be removed. Big Brother is always watching.
2022-06-24

3. Dark - A couple gory scenes and sex mentions but otherwise appropriate. However, the philosophy is a bit hard to understand for younger children. This book is also censored in many places I wonder why… lol once you read it you will know why. (It’s about a corrupt government and stuff.) Overall would recommend very good read.
2022-04-22

Release date: 2022-02-22 $2.99

Release date: 1959-07-01 $9.99

Comments

1. Thought Provoking - Not for the faint of heart....as this book is very long! But it is worth every minute spent reading it. When I started it, I had no idea what it was about, but read it b/c someone told me it was their favorite. It is difficult to say what it is about with out giving away too much, but it it is about the struggle of the economy during the industrial Revolution. It is told through several different eyes and from people on both the socialist and anti socialist points of view. Not only that, but there is some romance sprinkled in which spices it up a bit. It goes into the philosophy behind the views as well. It's interesting to see how so many of these ideas and conflicts relate to the world we are living in today. It's written in the 's and can be quite wordy and preachy, but worth it!
2022-08-23

2. This is one of most farsighted books written since ww. - This book outlines what is happening I in the US today with the lies of the administration and freedoms taken away by liberals, the crookedness of the press , just to name a few. There are many more. Get this, it was written in , by the daughter of a Russian family who witnessed what was going on in Russia then and serves a a clear reminder and indicator of what is going on in our country today. I have read it several times to center my thoughts if I feel I am drifting in my conservative foundation. For those who don’t understand it or “get it” stick to Animated books and productions. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. If anyone is interested,she has written many books all of which are worthy reads. Atlas Shrugged and all pages is one of the best books I have ever read.
2022-05-09

3. Great - I cant explain this book. It’s complex yet relatable plot will change the way any reader percepts reality. It’s impeccable philosophic backbone support the story, as it goes through numerous genres;fiction, philosophy, sci-fy, science fiction, romance, horror etc. I first watched the movies in th grade, and I was astonished be how much a story can change you. That is when I challenged myself to read the book in th grade and I immediately fell in love with it. The book is so good I kinda want to marry it. I have no idea how to explain this feeling, but all I can say is that you are missing out big time if you don’t read this..
2021-08-05

4. Love it or hate it, you’ll learn - Let’s be honest, whether you love or hate this book depends more on your political leanings, than on your literary taste. Having said that, I will always take self-reliance, intelligence and achievement over namby-pamby sentiments of entitlement. I love this book not only because of its message, but because of its plot, its well-developed characters and it’s foray into a number of genres including political thriller, science fiction and romance. Two criticisms which I understand or that the book is too long and that the dialogue is pedantic. A little context goes a long way in understanding Rand’s writing style. She is Russian and she writes like a Russian: long developed paragraphs, tons of exposition and a lot of lingering on characters’ thoughts. It is a characteristic Russian authors. The dialogs for the most part are written in the format ancient Greek question and answer philosophical debates. To our modern sensibilities it seems that she takes too long to reach a conclusion. Some of the reviews lead me to believe that the reviewer good night actually read the book. Once such a critic says that sometimes businessmen or corruptible. Atlas shrugged is full of corrupt businessman. Actually they are portrayed as being villainous. An important distinction that needs to be made is that rands hero is not a businessman. He or she is an entrepreneur of high intelligence, tremendous work ethic and unfaltering vision. She is glorifying the Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates of the world. Finally, I find it ironic that so many so-called progressives don’t give Rand credit for her portrayal of a strong woman, not hampered by the constraints of her era. The fact that Dagny Taggart outperforms the vast majority of men, is unabashedly sexual and is in every sense a woman should be celebrated. Particularly since this book was published in . Anyway, I’ve gone on for too long and I’m not even Russian.
2020-11-26

5. One of the Great Books - It was once required reading; it should be again. Liberals and socialists actively deride it and make sure it’s removed from libraries. It is much more than a novel. It’s inspiration for anyone who believes in freedom and the primacy of the individual over the state. It is not an easy read, but it may change your life and explain the idiocy of what is called modern “progressive” thinking. You have value. Your work and the product of your labor has value. Your ideas are yours. No one has a right to to take these things from you. And you have the right to decide how they will be used. What is the alternative?
2020-02-15

6. Childish poorly written - One the worst book I’ve ever read. It’s embarrassingly bad. If you get through hundreds of page-long paragraphs of pointless blathering to get the essence of this book, you’ll be left with a childish premise that gets infantile as it nears the end. After hearing so many conversational references to this book and seeing it on so many bookshelves I decided to read it. I now doubt those who like this book have actually read it beginning to end.
2019-12-27

7. A Transformative Narrative - Ayn Rand’s “Atlas Shrugged” is more than a novel. It’s a voyage of self-discovery for those willing to think - for those who place thought upon the highest of pedestals. Rand liberates those afraid to espouse their inherent ideals by giving them - her adherents - the weapon of a clearly delineated moral code. For those who understand: ours is the creed of life.
2019-01-01

8. Brevity: Look it up - This book doesn't make sense because Rand has combined the negative elements of her native Russia with what she finds ideal about the United States. Despite what she thinks, Capitalism can be corrupt. Businessmen can be corrupted by greed. The evil government thugs are ridiculous and must be a product of the Russia where she grew up. It might as well be a different planet. As a story, it's not bad, it's just too long. I'm shocked the publisher didn't tell her to cut a thousand pages. John Galt's radio monologue should have been reduced to five pages; a quarter of the way through it, I hated the hero of the book.
2018-04-07

9. Book of my year... - I was given this book along with the fountainhead in my senior of high school to read and it's been one of the most eye opening books I've ever read. I will proudly pass it on to my kids and hope they have a great understanding about life. I recommend this book along with The Fountainhead to everyone. Just be patient when reading it. It will be worth it.
2014-07-18

10. Better than Expected - I have seen much negativity surrounding this book on the internet. I went into it with an open mind. Yes, there are strong political connotations in it. It is very easy to see why many people opposed to it are so up in arms. In my opinion it is simply a book, and there are other lessons to be leaerned other than just capitalism. It teaches the value of hard work and being proud of that hard work. It teaches that you should not let others steal what you have worked so hard to achieve. Honestly, I don't see why people go so crazy when you bring up this book, but I think it's because they are told what to say about this book by others without ever having read it themselves. I will definitely be reading this again.
2013-12-17

11. Awesomely silly - Great stuff if you're an adolescent male, but mostly turgid prose that makes you reconsider the importance of English as a language. The Golden Bough_ is widely seen as crap science, only interesting for the literature it spawned--like, Yeats, Lovecraft, Howard and others: Rand will be chiefly known for spawning RUSH. Save your time, your life is short.
2013-06-20

12. WOW!! - A classic is a book that has something relevant to convey regardless of when it was written. This truly is one of my all time favorite classics. Perhaps more true today in the world of moochers and takers than ever. I'd heard of this book and never gotten to it. I'm glad I took the time. It was perfect in every way- whether you subscribe to it or not! Read it and see.
2012-12-29

13. A Modern Masterpiece - Hands-down the most compelling philosophical novel written in the past years. If you find the reviews here to be polarizing - you're right. Some find Rand's views in direct contradiction of their own. However, even if you don't agree with all of Ms. Rand's beliefs, you are bound to enjoy her thrilling capstone achievement in this book, and maybe expand your beliefs as well.
2012-10-10

Release date: 2022-06-29 $2.99

Release date: 2020-07-14 $0.99

Comments

1. Brilliant - It’s a heart wrenching and a heart warming tale of human emotions at the same time . We humans deal with love and hate and good and bad and everything emotional at the same time and the author has such command over the language and his expression is that much more true to heart .! Simply amazing!!
2022-12-19

2. Always a Steinbeck fan, but... - This is a tragic and beautiful story of real people, so well-defined and descriptive. Every time I put it down, I wished I could continue...more so than any book since his 'Grapes of Wrath' in high school. If not THE best, it is certainly one of the very best novels I have ever read.
2022-08-05

Release date: 2021-06-02 $0.99

Release date: 2010-06-01 $16.99

Comments

1. Gus - I have read and reread this book many times. When my husband and I were trying for a kid, I came to him one day and said “I have a name. Think literature” he immediately knew “Gus”. We ended up with a boy but whether girl or boy they would have been Gus. I bawl my eyes out every time I read it. The first couple hundred pages are a bit slower, but once you’re into it it’s so hard to put down. If naming my kid after it isn’t a good endorsement, I’m not sure what would be.
2022-09-17

2. Vivid depiction of the wild west - Lonesome Dove is a vivid depiction of the wild west and the men and women who populated it. Unfortunately, the story kind of petered out and left lots of unanswered questions. Perhpas a sequel answers some of them, but gernerally I don’t like weak endings. Otherwise the book was riveting throughout. I gave it rather than stars because of the unsatisfactory ending. — di pinto
2021-05-19

3. Lonesome Dove - Ok western yarn, but the author should never, never have killed off Gus McCrae. Gus was half the story just like in Mc’s two previous books about these two Texas Rangers. Very disappointing ending, leaving a big hole in the following book, Streets of Laredo. Pulitzer Prize, my backside.
2020-11-20

4. Wow! What an epic tale! - Don’t like westerns? I generally don’t either, but THIS book is my all-time favorite novel. No hokey, stereotypical, bull that’s normally associated with the genre in this one (or any of McMurty’s work for that matter) - just grit, dust, love and loss. There are characters for everyone; white, black, young, old, male and female, and if this story doesn’t make you laugh, cry, wince, and hope - check your pulse because you might be dead. Long live my literary hero: Captain Gus!
2019-11-26

5. Lonesome Dove Series - This is my all time favorite book. The characters are so deep and easy to get attached to. Larry McMurtry is an amazing writer makes you feel like you are there living with the characters. The plot is great and you will be so stuck in the book you will find any excuse to keep reading!
2019-06-23

6. Lonesome Dove - One of if not the best book I have ever read. Just finished it again for the time. The characters fill me with laughter and sorrow. The type of people I would have loved to hang out with. I fully expect to read it more times. In the immortal words of Augustus McCray " it's been a party"
2014-02-17

7. One of my all time favorites - Believe people when they tell you this book is Great. Its probably better than all the other books you've read and think are so good. This has got to be in the top favorite novels I've ever read. If you get past the st chapter or , you will start to see why. It's not one of those books that starts off running at a hundred miles an hour but when it gets going, it doesn't let up.
2013-05-06

8. Everything - I've read everything this man has published. But I'm sorry I read Lonesome Dove...because now I don't have it to look forward to! So I've read it again and again...and watched the great TV series times as well. This is some of the finest English language ever put on paper. Absolutely the very finest!!!! A masterpiece!
2012-11-23

Release date: 2004-12-28 $9.99

Comments

1. The Fountainhead - Any Rands relevance today through the Fountainhead is far more than a story of her time. Her book, The Fountainhead, truly describes much of what is happening with the new technologies, computers, electronics,etc., world, and I think, the “new” political environment being forced upon the public by the extreme left. This book is without a doubt one of the most relevant of today. Being “politically correct” is among the worst “second-hander” philosophies being foisted upon society. It is an element that has created fear to speak openly and fostered exactly the themes presented in ‘The Fountainhead’. The next step, if society will be ‘’, which seems to be just around the corner. One of the most illuminating books I’ve ever read.
2018-04-22

2. Why is ebook more than print? - This is exactly why the big six deserve to go out of business. They are still clearly bickering about payment prices even though a new model is clearly needed and expected by readers. This is an OLD book, printed in I believe, and the price should reflect that. Instead, you pay MORE (currently $. while print is $.) because they still don't know how to pick a bestseller (% of books they publish actually make money, % break even, and % lose money). They make so little money now, that they cannot even afford to promote the books they do publish unless it's guaranteed a bestseller. E-books should be cheaper than print books for many reasons. First, no printing costs means it's cheaper to produce. Yes, we know you have to put in multiple formats for pc, tablet and mobile reading but that's not exactly hard these days. If you also factor in the cost of distribution, it's MUCH cheaper. Then add savings for books not needing to be returned or the costs to have them sent back. Also note that it doesn't require a bookstore so that's an additional savings of % of the book amount. I think we all get the picture at this point and it's time they change their ways of doing business because we clearly have a new way of doing business as well. Of of the main disadvantages of e-books is that you cannot transfer it to another person like you can just give a print book to another person.This makes their value less than print, and the price should also reflect this. I've purchased several copies of this book because I wanted others to read it. I only wanted a digital copy because it's hard to read the words at the beginning and end of a printed book because they don't format it with enough margin to make it easy to read. It's doable, just not easy. For those that have never read this book, i'll just say that it's my favorite book of all time. It's one of those books I wish I had written. I can't give it higher praise than that.
2012-07-23

3. Capitalism - I find it ironic how many lovers of this book are complaining about the price when much of the message of Rand's ideology point to the freedom of capitalism. Therefore those who supposedly believe in Rand's view should be fine in that Penguin or Apple should charge whatever it wants. Herein lies the hipprocracy of many of Rand's followers: sounds great until it affects you personally.
2011-08-25

4. Good read - Long, but very easy read, and very entertaining. It definitely keeps your interest, but since it's touted as a classic by many that's surely no surprise. There were a few chapters that almost seemed to be "filler". These were the ones primarily involving secondary characters. I suppose the intent was to fill in some background and/or further develop Toohey's behind-the-scenes manipulations, but those chapters didn't add a lot for me. I suspect there is a LOT of literary symbolism, archetypes, and other things that literary scholars (and high school teachers) would have a field day with, but this book can certainly be enjoyed just for pure pleasure, too. And, perhaps that's what makes it a great book.
2011-02-21

5. Way too expensive. - I see that it has dropped $ to $, but still, for an e-book, that's ridiculous. The woman is dead for christs-sake, so you don't have to worry about supporting the artist, just greedy business men. You can buy this at a book store for half that price. Or borrow it from a friend for free. A lot of people have it. Ask your parents/grandparents. Don't waste your money on a soft copy of the book, unless it was reasonably priced.
2011-01-20

6. Priceless - The price has dropped to dollars at the time of me writing this. I bet thats still pricy compared to paperback prices, but at any price its worth it... Whether you have to read it on an iPad or have the ability to go pick up a physical copy(probably better), this book will be worth it. It is endlessly inspiring.
2010-09-05

7. Hey! A review that doesn't have to do with price! - Ayn Rand's knee-jerk, corporatist ideology runs rampant through all of her work. As with every other book she wrote, this one is heavy-handed and about as subtle and beautiful as a hand grenade. Save yourself some time and money and read a book that wasn't written by someone who lived so long under totalitarian communism that she ran for the farthest corner of the map, anarchical capitalism.
2010-08-07

Release date: 2022-11-05 $1.99

Release date: 2002-07-25 $13.99

Comments

1. For Whom. the Bell Tolls - An inspiring work that got me to thinking on several levels, not only on location but also into the minds of all of the players who make up this story. I could empathize with each one in various ways. This is a complex story but told with absolute clarity. I highly recommend.
2015-05-17

2. Good book. Great ending! - This is the only Hemingway book I have read and it was great! I spent hours finishing this book because of the anticipation of how the ending was going to play out. The end of this book was amazing. It starts out very good and slows down only to bring out the much suspense at the end. Some of the characters are so dynamic that you begin to feel for them.
2013-02-26

Release date: 2022-10-11 $0.99

Release date: 2019-06-22 $0.99

Release date: 2022-04-01 $0.99

Release date: 2012-02-15 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Release date: 2012-02-15 $11.99

Release date: 2022-05-27 $2.99

Release date: 2022-01-23 $0.99

Release date: 2007-12-01 $9.99

Comments

1. Hot Dogs and Memories - Every time I see a hot dog stand or a kid with a plastic pirate sword I’m reminded of this book. Every time I read this book I feel like I’m back in New Orleans. But there’s something of Proust in Toole’s writing in its ability to not just remind and describe, but to truly conjure memories and transport the reader into the story.
2012-12-01

2. Nay-Sayers Beware - To be honest, though this is an amazing and opulent book, to someone who didn't grow up in New Orleans or didn't spend a considerable amount of time living there, much of the subtle humor and obscure references go unnoticed. I find this is the biggest reason for negative preception of thr book. However, though I am native to New Orleans, I have no problem reccommending this to friends and family, regardless of culture or location. Part of understanding the story is to understand the tragic life of John Toole, who took his own life after writing the first drafts of the book. This is a book about New Orleans, and the random yet intertwined people who live in it, but it's also a story about understanding platonic love, acceptance, nepotism, fear, and vunerability of the human mind and soul. Each one of us is Ignatius: brazen, headstrong, misguided, abiet alone. We first hate him, then pity him, then feel deep empathy for him, then cheer him on. In the end, it matters not whether Ignatius or his comrades have changed -- matters is what Toole's story changes in you.
2012-07-19

3. To mr.parnel - To bad this book didn't contain any vampires or werewolves. only explanation I can think of, is that u have no sense of humor, or concept of humor. Dunces is probably the funniest book ever written. Think u need one of those little joke books that were so popular n rd grade. You're idea of humor is probably an Adam sandler..will Ferrell movie. No, Tom green or daniel tosh, more you're speed. Or maybe u just needed something color. Great book! BUY IT! U want regret it!!!!!!!!!!! ;)
2012-07-17

4. With charm beware - I submit to you the warmth of a book lightened in heavy words for the mind to ponder. A joyful read for the local being, and a sound explanation of crazy vs. sane. We may view ourselves as casual minds and normal dependencies, However Igneous lives in his own world that collides with ours. The twist of what is normal, and what is for scene as being normal variably gives us a new understanding that some of us are just plain different. Please don't turn a blind eye to those that are different, but rather embrace them as a new path of thinking and your mind will open new doors of thinking. db
2011-09-11

Release date: 2015-10-18 $0.99

Comments

1. Mere Christianity - I was told about this book over years ago. They said it was a good book but not an easy read. Once I started reading it I understood why they said that, but if u take ur time it will. Lewis’ illustrations are perfect to help u understand some difficult concepts. I can’t wait to re-read it.
2022-12-12

2. Good Content, Poor Editing - My rating has more to do with the editing process of getting this classic into Ebook form than the content itself. The content was really good. I love the way CS Lewis was able to give illustrations that bring his points to life. There was a lot to think about in here. However, whoever converted the content to ebook form did not proof read well. This edition is full of mistakes (typos, word changes, errant punctuation) which I am certain are not in the original book.
2022-03-15

3. I’m a Christian. This book proves nothing - I was do expecting this book to be far better than it is. It assumes a common bond of goodness and innate morals that I know from very extensive travels in war zones isn’t true. I’m a Christian. I have faith. That is all. This book adds nothing but a problematic apology from Lewis.
2021-02-04

Release date: 2011-11-29 $12.99

Comments

1. Okay? - I’m not really sure how to feel after completing this book. In the beginning I didn’t take the content seriously because I can never imagine a world where knowledge is taken from us. Unfortunately, we are already moving into a time where a lot of information is not trusted with the public and therefore removed from us ever finding out the truth. Books are important so we can keep track of human history and not repeat the countless mistakes we have made along the way of growth and development. Montag is my favorite character because I can relate in a certain way to the need of knowing. Mildred was a character I could not relate to. I could never understand why anyone would want to be oblivious of their surrounding situation. Stay woke.
2021-09-25

2. Mind changing - This book completely altered my perception of books and literature and just knowledge in general. It made me realize how important books are and how so many people just go through their life not realizing that they haven’t really put their mark on the world. This book made me realize that there’s so much more to accomplish in life and there’s only so much time to do it. The star is because the book is paced awkwardly and was slightly weird to read at some parts because there isn’t typical chapter breaks like a normal book. But besides that, this book is a must read solely because... that’s the point of the book. To read.
2021-07-29

3. Worst Book Ever - I can’t believe how terrible this book was. The spelling and grammar were horrible. The story was very confusing at times. It had many slow parts to the point I wanted to rip my eyes out. But I stuck with it. Honestly wish I hadn’t wasted so much time on this book. I don’t understand how this garbage can be a “classic”. It’s just as horrible as the movie.
2021-03-14

4. Where is the OG Cover? - I read the book on the occasions and my only concern is Why didn’t they use the original cover??! Did they think “oh hey let’s put Michael B Jordan on the cover maybe more people will read is...!!!” The book was great!!! Not for people who don’t have very much imagination The book has a different way in descriptions that may bore an unimaginative reader.
2019-01-06

5. Defending Books… Years Later - I was delighted with Neil Geiman’s Introduction the original Fahrenheit ; his words reaffirm the timelessness that the story brought to me. I was born between Bradbury () and Geiman () and I went back to reread the book, already questioning how a story that was written in the past about the future could truly hold up for today’s generation in a world that’s already been dramatically shaped by time and technology in ways that they weren’t even aware of. In the ’s, Bradbury already saw computers possibilities in simple terms and saw that nothing but good would be coming from them. He believed that, in a sense, computers were simply books, were all over the place and that computers would be as well. A familiarity exists in the conversations and the silences of the story that is easily recognized as the firemen discuss their work, their lives and the complexities of their relationships; those surroundings seem timeless. The images of Mildred’s ‘family’ in the parlor are quite similar to the multiscreen environments that typically surround us today. Look around you; computers and smartphones count! The relationships that we still have with books goes without saying; they’ve been with us for centuries. The idea that all books could become criminal has always been an absurdity to the masses but the historical role that book burning has played as a means deleting or controlling differences and dissidents is real. ‘Fahrenheit ’ is a novel first, a fiction, a story about a dedicated fireman, Montag, who believes that all books cause conflicting ideas and must be destroyed. He is part of a zealous effort to purge their existence from society. After meeting Clarisse, he begins to question how his beliefs have been shaped and his curiosity inspires his quest for meaning in words. By story’s end he has become the revolution and a hero for the future of books… just like Bradbury!! I was struck by Bradbury’s comments in Coda () of how he waged a lifelong battle with well-intentioned readers or the actions of cubby-hole editors, fearful of contaminating the young, blatantly changing his words or suggesting that he do. In one instance, he discovered that, bit-by-bit, some seventy-five separate section had been censured from Fahrenheit, causing the entire book to be reset. His point should be obvious; there is more than one way to burn a book and the world is full of people running about with lit matches! This book contains an unprecedented collection of timely wisdom from noted experts from the world of words just in time to bolster my efforts to promote storytelling in today's younger generation, not the least of these are from Bradbury’s own perspectives. Bob Magnant created the Fingertips Series on Apple iTunes to promote the reading, writing and reviewing of books in the digital age. He has written multiple Apple iBooks and is the author of 'Domestic Satellite: An FCC Giant Step' and 'The Last Transition...', a fact-based novel about Iran. He writes about politics, globalization, the Internet and US policy and lives near the beach in Jupiter, FL.
2018-06-22

6. A Science Fiction Masterpiece! - Ray once said that this novel was his only Science Fiction work and that most of what he wrote otherwise, was Fantasy. I have to disagree. Nonetheless, this book should be required reading in high schools. Freedom of thought and the printed word are at stake. Paper burns at F! The movie is also good.
2016-09-10

7. Great book not suggested for people who like happy endings - I recommend that really strong readers read this book this book shows you the importance of books. The author of this book Ray Bradbury is a end of the world writer I don't want to spoil the book so I recommend that people should read this book it's a classic
2016-05-31

8. Great!! - The book is a classic science fiction novel, showing humankind's natural way of repressing what we don't know. The novel takes place in the near future followig Guy Montag, who is a fireman. Rather than killing the flames, he starts them, Guy lives in a society where books are outlawed and views of reading as dangerous. He begins to question his life's work after a series of events, soon Guy begins to protect what he used to destroy. The book even though surrounded by controversy is a great read, while also having film and a graphic novel.
2014-12-02

9. Life retold by fire - This is a very interesting book. The second you pick it up you won't put it down. This book in a way is like the end of the world but futuristic at the same time. You can actually feel that you are there, I don't want to spoil so read it on your own. If you don't then you are missing out. Enjoy!
2014-08-01

10. Worst book ever - The story line was very hard to follow and at some points did not make sense at all. At one point i had to look up the summery on line to figure out what the point of the book was. Many typos as i said before worst book i have ever read, you could not pay me $ to read this book. Enough said :(
2013-08-11

11. Ahhh! How to describe such a refreshing read - Lately I've been thinking a lot about life. Especially how commercial and money-oriented our society has become. Everything seems to be moving at a fast pace, almost at a whirlwind. People are so focused on whats going on around them, that they neglect nature, books, and cease to feel adventurous and excited by the marvels that this world has to offer. Technology has not only empowered us to unforeseeable progress, but has also become our obsession. We are fed information from different channels which makes us complacent and lose our inquisitiveness. By doing so we cease to think for ourselves and therefore to exist. This is what is at the essence of Ray Bradburys Fahrenheit and this is what makes it such a compelling read. It paints a portrait of a dystopian society which has lost all interest in nature and learning and by doing so offers us a warning and hope for a brighter future.
2013-07-11

12. Bradbury is ahead of his time... Literally. - With a story as short as Fahrenheit , I've never read such a compelling and intriguing plot such as this one. Bradbury sets his alternative depiction of the future, with the contradicting job the firemen achieve. There is no wonder this book won a national book award. Two thumbs up!
2013-04-23

13. A prescient work - Bradbury, with some of the other lights of science fiction literature, was a seer. His discourse from Faber concerning education should be required reading for all who conflate test scores with education. NCLB needs to be amended to No Brain Left Behind. Reading Fahrenheit is a first step in developing critical thought before it is too late.
2013-04-04

Release date: 2022-12-09 $2.99

Comments

1. Animal Farm - This Book shows great writing, and has a mass amount of symbolism. On the cycle of tyranny, as the pigs slowly become the overlords of the farm, you see it slowly happen, and all the other animals just let it happen until it’s too late. It is obvious as to why this book is a classic, and how well it holds up even in today’s society, mainly due to English classes. However if you have a spare moment of your time, you should definitely pick up this book. It will get you thinking to society and how it reflects upon it.
2022-06-28

Release date: 2023-03-13 $3.99

Comments

1. Animal Farm - Great book. Second time that I’ve read this book. First time it was mandatory reading in High School. This time was because I’m almost and living in an INDEPENDENT LIVING APARTMENT which is associated with an ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY.I’m a retired nurse who is totally amazed and amused by the entitled people who live here with me at this home. It is as if they were raised by wolves! People who have no manners, they are rude to wait staff, use racial slurs, ask intrusive questions of people who they think shouldn’t be living here because of the job they had,etc. TO THESE FOLKS I SAY, “You need to read ANIMAL FARM again,”
2022-03-22

Release date: 1985-04-22 $9.99

Release date: 2021-10-28 $1.99

Release date: 2019-11-05 $0.99

Release date: 2021-03-02 $0.99

Release date: 2016-09-30 $0.99

Release date: 1976-01-01 $8.99

Comments

1. What a fantastic book - This is an amazing book. Literate, incisive, filled with a lyrical poetic prose which is deeply moving. As always, Le Guin strikes at the heart of identity and what it means to be human under the guise of fantasy/science fiction. An amazing author, a remarkable book. Don’t miss it.
2022-11-28

2. So? - A slow storyline. Painfully so. Yes, it’s cold. Yes, the inhabitants of this world are naturally androgynous. No, I didn’t care. A laborous, it not self indulgent, attempt at being ethereal and thought provoking. Pages and pages dedicated to one long torturous journey across an ice wasteland, to have all the political social questions wrapped up a few quick sentences. I should have been given an award for finishing the book.
2018-07-31

3. Adversity Can be a Good Thing - When I finished this book, I felt like I had been a part of the awakening of two people who had learned what it means to be fully human. Yes, they are from different planets with vastly different languages, cultures, governmental structures, daily, and sexual practices, but facing adversity together allows them to form a deep bond. I highly recommend this book.
2018-03-01

Release date: 2022-02-02 $0.99

Comments

1. A wild ride - This book is truly confusing when you first start reading but halfway through you really understand how she was struggling and why her thoughts are all over the place. It’s a crazy perspective of mental health and how people can struggle and what they go through day to day or in hospitals.
2022-12-29

2. A sad book - The author does a great job in explaining the psyche pm Esther Greenwood, the main character, even though E. Greenwood may have narcissistic and nihilistic tendencies she wishes no evil towards no one. As I read I gained sympathy for E. Greenwood and that allowed me to discover more about myself and this book.
2022-07-07

3. Amazing - Did a biography on Sylvia Plath and thought huh, I should read this since it's her only novel. Saw an amazing quote about a fig tree and was sold. Amazing from beginning to end. Never boring. Things happen in the story but the most interesting part is witnessing how Esther's (Sylvia's) mind reacts to them. Really amazed me along with the first glass bell jar quote ("Because wherever i sat-on the deck of a ship or...")
2021-11-23

Release date: 1986-11-01 $2.99

Comments

1. Still owned by Conan Doyle Estate - The family of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle inherited the rights to all of his publications and to "Sherlock Holmes". His writings are not part of the public domain. Look up Conan Doyle Estate on the Internet. They granted permission to Anthony Horowitz to write the first new Sherlock Holmes novel, "The House of Silk"
2014-04-19

2. This is the edition you want. . . - . . . and here's why: . A table of contents that works! Detailed and fully functional links take you where you want to go. An essential feature that, amazingly, is absent from some other e-editions. . Complete and well-formatted edition with full text searching that really works. A pleasure to navigate and read. All at a great price. Caveat: no Sidney Paget illustrations. If that is a big deal for you, look elsewhere. Bottom line - If you don't already know how great these stories are, there are lots of other reviewers who will tell you. The issue is not whether these stories are worth your time (they are) but which version you should buy. You want one that will help you enjoy the text rather than getting in your way. This edition fires on all cylinders.
2012-01-09