Reviews

Lottery by Patricia Wood

jesslolsen's review against another edition

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4.0

I nearly didn't take this book home to read, because I thought it might make me too sad. I'm glad I decided that being too sad over someone being retarded ("I am NOT retarded") and ripped off by his family wasn't a good enough reason to not read it, because this story was really heartwarming.

It was one of those books that you think is going to follow a simple lighthearted path to the end, but it ends up having more to it than that. There was more to Perry than a slow mentality - he is kind and observant and funny and loving and there is a lot he could teach others instead of the other way around.

I started to get annoyed that part of the story where the family plots to steal his money was taking so long, but then I realised that wasn't the main point, it was giving us more insight in to who Perry was through his memories and musings.

Although some of his real family are not very nice people at all, he shows that sometimes family are those that you choose as well as those that you are born with. There is also a very good reminder to not always judge a book by it's cover, so to speak.

gondorgirl's review against another edition

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emotional funny inspiring reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No

4.0


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daopaoxx's review against another edition

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4.0

a charming slow read, easy to get attached to the characters. loved the way Perry was written, like you could really get inside his head.

booksbeaches's review against another edition

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4.0

Lottery was a book I bought light years ago with my previously reviewed book, The Tenderness Of Wolves. Did I buy it for the reviews? Was it on sale? Could I have been hoping that the secrets of winning the lottery were deep within?
I’m not sure, but I did feel like I won with this book. Not the big jackpot, but a satisfying amount that allows you to brag a little.

This book will be like spending 340 pages with Forest Gump. Their IQ is about the same and both share that charming innocence that we love about Forest. (They said it was a million dollar shot, but the army must keep that money because I never did see a nickel from it). Lottery’s main character Perry L Crandall says ridiculously funny things throughout the book. Often I found myself explaining to the beau why I was snort laughing in the other room. “Oh, Perry. He says the funniest things.”

Much like Forest, Randall’s character is taken advantage of frequently during the book. People make fun of him and you are never sure what will make you cry more… when he realizes that they are poking fun at him or when he doesn’t. He such a sweet soul and you’ll find jerks walking all over him throughout the story, especially when the lottery winnings start coming in. His sleazy family can’t wait to get their grubby hands on the goods. His friends try to protect him, including Keith who reminds me a bit of angry, drunk Lieutenant Dan.

Even though the book is entertaining, at times it can be like watching a train wreck. Many reviewers commented on the repetition throughout the book. It didn’t bother me, but I can see where it could get annoying. (Nowhere as much as 50 Shades of Grey’s thousands of murmurings.)

Lottery is an easy read when you need something to make you giggle. It’s also a nice time to reflect on how some people can be jerks to the sweetest souls. I’ve seen several people say it is a book club read, but I think this is more of one to enjoy on your own.

melaniejomoore.com

juliardye's review against another edition

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2.0

This was a quick read and I liked that, but otherwise I was a little squeamish with the subject matter. I felt bad for the main character and it bothered me that his family was so terrible to him. It made me a little sad. I liked the back 1/3 better than the first 2/3 though, so that was nice.

kristenremenar's review against another edition

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4.0

I rooted for Perry the whole book through! Perry L. Crandall is very lucky and he is not retarded - his IQ is 76. When he wins the lottery, he finds himself surrounded by family members who want to take advantage of him, and good friends who help him see where his fortune really lies.

stasiareading's review against another edition

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3.0

Both my husband and I read this while abroad in NZ it’s light hearted, fun, optimistic and at times hilarious. A great beach read

selinayoung's review against another edition

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3.0

I enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would. 3.5 stars. It was sweet and I enjoyed the narration. This book made me think and while I wouldn't have made some of the same choices as the main character I see his reasoning.

elissa8's review against another edition

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4.0

Reminded me a bit of the Case of the Curious Dog at midnight (title?). Its a fun read!

drlisak's review against another edition

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4.0

At first I wasn't sure I liked this because it made me tense the entire time I read it. It is that true to the cruelty and greed of the world, and the poor treatment too many people give to those who are seen as different. In the end, though I appreciated the books ability to make me feel and think these things.