Reviews

The Remains of the Day, by Kazuo Ishiguro

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hawoods86's review against another edition

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lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No

4.0

spiderfelt's review against another edition

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5.0

So many reviewers before me have described this book perfectly. I loved the way the main character constantly questioned his own memories and retold bits of stories, as we do when trying to reconstruct events from the distant past. Ishiguro perfectly captures the inner monologue and leads us slowly down the path to a complete understanding at the end. Despite the fact that I have read two other Ishiguro novels, I really wasn't prepared to be knocked over by this one. I listened to 80% of the story over the course of one very long day.

wanderer27's review against another edition

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reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

offquilter's review against another edition

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4.0

The tragic, unrequited love that resounds in the ego of this story fascinates me. Beautiful.

queermoss's review against another edition

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4.0

4.5 stars— a remarkable and thought-provoking character study. i can't imagine anyone could write a better book from the perspective of a butler. some passages were breath taking; some beautifully simple; some a bit rambling and repetitive (although even such ramblings have place and meaning within the book); and throughout it all the underlying consciousness of the character permeates every sentence meticulously. many layers within this writing.

kfreedman's review against another edition

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3.0

Ishiguro is a great writer. I'm always amazed at how he embodies characters and gives them convincing voices. I was occasionally bored and occasionally cracking up at Mr. Stevens, the butler. The book also includes some interesting philosophical questions (in an offhand way) such as the power of democracy. I enjoyed this book but have liked other books by Ishiguro more.