marrowmackenzie's review against another edition
2.0
This book wanted to be so many things, but it fell short of almost all of them.
A well written book but a big bummer. Usually in tragic stories there is always that glimmer of hope at the end that gives some relief to the reader. There is short chapter at the end where that sort of is the case, but it's very rushed I'm afraid. There was not overarching morality tale or message, just a never ending round of tragedy.
A well written book but a big bummer. Usually in tragic stories there is always that glimmer of hope at the end that gives some relief to the reader. There is short chapter at the end where that sort of is the case, but it's very rushed I'm afraid. There was not overarching morality tale or message, just a never ending round of tragedy.
heartofgoldink24's review against another edition
5.0
Glory Days was one of those things that you read that can be either a hit or miss. For me personally, it was a definite hit due to the realistic natures of the characters and the genuine emotion that interweaves throughout each story. A collection of short stories with different characters' perspectives, the collection worked well with the universal themes of a troubled past and the effect of parental authority (or lack thereof).
With descriptions that have a way of knocking the breath out of you, this book is a recommendation for any who like to read about and experience the grittier side of life.
With descriptions that have a way of knocking the breath out of you, this book is a recommendation for any who like to read about and experience the grittier side of life.
ajlct's review
dark
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
mscott's review against another edition
4.0
Such an interesting and engaging story but pretty dark. I really enjoy the author’s ability to tell us a story that wasn’t easy or simple. So many layers in this one just as in real life. No one is all good or all bad. The end certainly leaves the door open for a follow up. Would very much recommend this book.
michellehogmire's review
2.0
Desperately wanted to like this sad tale of small-town Nebraska, but found it largely derivative of Faulkner's As I Lay Dying--including a deceased narrator and a direct rehash of Jewel and Darl's famous pass through/around the old cotton house, with main characters Teensy and his daughter Luann. Minus three stars for a lot of awkward and forced exposition, as well as multiple POV and tense shifts for (mostly) no discernible purpose. Plus two stars for the complicated relationship between Gardner and Teensy, the generally accurate portrayal of stagnant and cyclical existence in small-town America, and the lovely short "we" narrated chapter. Formal review perhaps to come.
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