Reviews

Plays Well with Others, by Allan Gurganus

cliff's review

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dark emotional funny reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

5wamp_creature's review against another edition

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4.0

Is this semi-autobiographical? Seems so. Nevertheless, outstanding book.
I was pulled deep into the story of NYC in the erupting era of AIDS. I also like the slice of life of single adults. Gurganus doesn't pull any punches on either side of gay culture: He points out widespread homophobia in the media as well as describing the sexually loose lifestyle that predominated then.

Anyway, it's really well written. The characters are likable and believable.
I noticed that the object of the story, Robert, had very little dialogue. He exists largely in the idyllic world his friends create for him. I suspect there is tons of symbolism in here I'm missing, as well.
If you care to catch me up, drop a line.

Highly recommended!
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