katiez624's review against another edition
5.0
Even though this book's premise did not initially jump out at me, I would be remiss to not at least give this book a try after seeing it splattered on so many of the top book lists of 2022.
The writing style is succinct while still very descriptive of both the physical surroundings and the characters' inner dialogue. Sam, Sadie, and Marx have a remarkable friendship and working relationship. They are talented and creative and the games they design have intriguing storylines and unique gameplay. During the times in which Sam was struggling with his foot, he reminded me a lot of Jude from a [b:A Little Life|22822858|A Little Life|Hanya Yanagihara|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1446469353l/22822858._SY75_.jpg|42375710], someone who is accustomed to disguising the extent of his pain and discomfort, someone who is reluctant to ask for and receive help, and someone who is surrounded by devoted and supportive friends.
Despite the accolades, I came in skeptical of how much I would enjoy it. The writing is undeniably well-done, and the incorporation of game design and game play, while in-depth, is also accessible to all readers. The structure and portrayal of the story, similar to the layout of a complex game, is elegant and nuanced, as we follow these characters over decades of life, work, and friendship.
The writing style is succinct while still very descriptive of both the physical surroundings and the characters' inner dialogue. Sam, Sadie, and Marx have a remarkable friendship and working relationship. They are talented and creative and the games they design have intriguing storylines and unique gameplay. During the times in which Sam was struggling with his foot, he reminded me a lot of Jude from a [b:A Little Life|22822858|A Little Life|Hanya Yanagihara|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1446469353l/22822858._SY75_.jpg|42375710], someone who is accustomed to disguising the extent of his pain and discomfort, someone who is reluctant to ask for and receive help, and someone who is surrounded by devoted and supportive friends.
Despite the accolades, I came in skeptical of how much I would enjoy it. The writing is undeniably well-done, and the incorporation of game design and game play, while in-depth, is also accessible to all readers. The structure and portrayal of the story, similar to the layout of a complex game, is elegant and nuanced, as we follow these characters over decades of life, work, and friendship.
liv_acting's review against another edition
informative
mysterious
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
maurobryan's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
While the main characters of Sadie and Sam are quite flawed, arrogant, and you just want to shake them to communicate better with one another and be honest with themselves… it is very human and refreshing and helps you gain a new perspective. I LOVED Marx and want to view myself as lucky as well. He was a hopeless ‘look for the best in others’ person and friend, and someone everyone needs in their life to help them see the good in life. Sam called him boring… maybe out of jealously with how ‘easy’ Marx had life… But I found Marx inspiring to look at life like a gift… We have tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow to better ourselves and have our best day yet. We have tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow to find love, get the dream job, and make better our past mistakes or failures. And that is so important to remember.
shelby_crane's review against another edition
4.0
1 star deducted (almost) solely for forcing me to spend so long in pioneer when i never asked for that
savncheese's review against another edition
5.0
This book was amazing, definitely one of my favorites of the year and potentially all time? It's one that will stick with me for a minute. A lot of folks told me it would make me cry, but I didn't get quite to that point. There were a few points that tugged at my heart and potentially stomped on it a little. BUT, overall great book. Check the TWs!
jalice09's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
tinadls's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
nathrobe's review against another edition
4.0
Not sure how to feel about it, it is like "A little life" but not so well storytelled, the relationship between the characters is complicated, and I think this book is mostly about managing your feelings and grief. It was OK.
machelriller's review against another edition
5.0
I loved this so much and I wish I could play all of these fictional games.