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lorees_reading_nook's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.75
Real rating: 3.8
As always, Alexander McCall Smith's witty observations of human foibles are a pleasure to read and the perfect antidote for escaping the real world. The characters are perfectly imperfect but easy to relate to and I love how we even get to know the thoughts of Cyril the dog. I was laughing aloud several times while reading this book, especially when it came to Cyril's opinion of cats. But the overall message that I get from these books is that the world would be a much better place if we were kinder to each other. As amusing and endearing as ever, I am really happy to have ended my reading year with a smile on my face.
As always, Alexander McCall Smith's witty observations of human foibles are a pleasure to read and the perfect antidote for escaping the real world. The characters are perfectly imperfect but easy to relate to and I love how we even get to know the thoughts of Cyril the dog. I was laughing aloud several times while reading this book, especially when it came to Cyril's opinion of cats. But the overall message that I get from these books is that the world would be a much better place if we were kinder to each other. As amusing and endearing as ever, I am really happy to have ended my reading year with a smile on my face.
everything_was_beautiful's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
wanderaven's review against another edition
3.0
It seems apparent to me that McCall Smith clearly has or has had a dog in his life. He's so fantastic at observing and portraying human nature, and canine as well.
"Some dogs may enjoy snow, but (Cyril) was not one of them, and he had a tendency to blame Angus for the uncomfortable white disaster that snow represented for him.
'Not my fault, Cyril,' Angus would say under Cyril's reproachful gaze. 'I can do nothing about the weather, I'm afraid. We must bear it with as much patience as we can muster.'
That, unfortunately, was no answer. Cyril regarded Angus as omnipotent, the author and controller of his life, and by natural extension, of the conditions under which it was lived. Angus was, in fact, God to Cyril: a simple metaphor that has not escaped the attentions of some theologians who see the man/dog relationship as a helpful cipher for our own relationship with a creator. But whereas the human notion of god allows the creator freedom to order the world in a way which we may not find to our taste - acts of God, it must be remembered, include typhoons, lightning, and pestilence, at least as far as the interpretation of insurance contracts is concerned - in Cyril's theology there was no room for such discretion. Snow was uncomfortable and should not be there: Why had Angus allowed it and what was he proposing to do about it?"
I can't tell you how many times it's snowed for the first time each winter and I've looked down at my dog and wondered whether they believe I have any control over the weather.
And these are the moments for which I love McCall Smith.
Also, I agree with Cyril: Snow is uncomfortable and should not be here.
"Some dogs may enjoy snow, but (Cyril) was not one of them, and he had a tendency to blame Angus for the uncomfortable white disaster that snow represented for him.
'Not my fault, Cyril,' Angus would say under Cyril's reproachful gaze. 'I can do nothing about the weather, I'm afraid. We must bear it with as much patience as we can muster.'
That, unfortunately, was no answer. Cyril regarded Angus as omnipotent, the author and controller of his life, and by natural extension, of the conditions under which it was lived. Angus was, in fact, God to Cyril: a simple metaphor that has not escaped the attentions of some theologians who see the man/dog relationship as a helpful cipher for our own relationship with a creator. But whereas the human notion of god allows the creator freedom to order the world in a way which we may not find to our taste - acts of God, it must be remembered, include typhoons, lightning, and pestilence, at least as far as the interpretation of insurance contracts is concerned - in Cyril's theology there was no room for such discretion. Snow was uncomfortable and should not be there: Why had Angus allowed it and what was he proposing to do about it?"
I can't tell you how many times it's snowed for the first time each winter and I've looked down at my dog and wondered whether they believe I have any control over the weather.
And these are the moments for which I love McCall Smith.
Also, I agree with Cyril: Snow is uncomfortable and should not be here.
rjmcewan's review against another edition
5.0
I have a soft spot for these sweet stories and beautifully drawn characters, and I always enjoy time spent in Scotland Street.
jsboswell22's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
kingfan30's review against another edition
4.0
I’ve enjoyed this series from the very beginning, and although I’ve had some large gaps between reading them, it’s always nice to return and see how everyone is. I’m pleased to say I have the next already lined up on the shelves so got no excuses for leaving it so long before catching up again.
So after nearly a year since the last book, it was time to sit down with a coffee and enjoy. I’d like to think Berties mum is lightening up, although I don’t hold out to much hope, his story line did make me smile, even if it was a little far fetched. Poor Matthew and Elsbeth come to grips of being parents of three, although i’m Not sure about the names of the poor boys, it did make me laugh that the mixed them up once the tags were taken off. And has Big Lou finally met someone. Bring on the next in the series.
So after nearly a year since the last book, it was time to sit down with a coffee and enjoy. I’d like to think Berties mum is lightening up, although I don’t hold out to much hope, his story line did make me smile, even if it was a little far fetched. Poor Matthew and Elsbeth come to grips of being parents of three, although i’m Not sure about the names of the poor boys, it did make me laugh that the mixed them up once the tags were taken off. And has Big Lou finally met someone. Bring on the next in the series.
bgg616's review
4.0
The Scotland Street series is funny, clever, and endearing. The Edinburgh of these books is a place we'd all love to live. I'd add, except for July and August when the city is crammed with tourists who traverse the city in large packs, oblivious to all other humanity, and the obstruction they create. Despite trying visitors, Edinburgh residents couldn't be friendlier. I was pleased that there's a reference to the Belfast poet Michael Longley in this book. Smith includes so many interesting comments linked to literature, history and more that demonstrate what a knowledgeable writer he is. The additions make reading him even more fun. Bertie continues to struggle with his unreasonably demanding mother but there are signs in this installment she may be turning a corner.
ruthie_the_librarian's review
4.0
I was disappointed with the last Isabel Dalhousie I read, so it was a relief that this one seemed to be back to his usual form. Read & reviewed for The Bookbag - http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php?title=44_Scotland_Street:_Bertie_Plays_the_Blues_by_Alexander_McCall_Smith