Reviews

The Street by Mordecai Richler

theshepshelf's review against another edition

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4.0

We live in a very, very different culture today.

alanffm's review

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3.0

Somewhat of a disappointment having read many of his other novels. The Street is a collection of short stories describing early Jewish life and community in Montreal that is quite charming and imformative. There's just something about Richler's writing style which does not lend well to the short story. I don't know. Still very enjoyable and educational - a must for anyone wishing to learn about Montreal's Jewish history.

fionak's review against another edition

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dark funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Very evocative of a different time and place, Richler’s Montreal is peopled by stereotypes and nostalgia. Fans will enjoy this but others will struggle.

christinemark's review against another edition

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fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated

3.5

lnatal's review

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3.0

From BBC Radio 4 Extra:
A refugee proves to be an aggravating and judgemental man of mystery.

amino's review

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4.0

I've only known Montreal through Mavis Gallant's writing and it's a delight to explore it from another writer's perspective. This collection of stories has not only shown me another Montreal I was only vaguely aware of before but it restored a bit of the love I once had for short stories. I mean, it helps that there are some consistent themes throughout such as childhood, family drama, the insulating yet nurturing and comforting potential of culture, and societal expectations. I've shied away from Richler in the past because he's always seemed too much of a literary giant to approach without high expectations but this was an approachable and charming set of stories and the perfect place, I think, to start.