senpai_no_lie's review against another edition
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
Some of the language and humor has not aged well. Hints at themes of science, religion, and morality. About the end of the world in a way that's fairly light-hearted and strange. No one is a good person but they're not unlikable.
Content Warnings
Minor: Death, Death of parent, Animal death, and Ableism
Chapters are very short so it's a fast read.emoryscott's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
I enjoyed this read. Several times, I found myself laughing aloud. I don’t think I fully understood the broader picture that Vonnegut was trying to paint with this story, but here and there I was able to notice the deeper meaning. Vonnegut is a tricky author to read, but he can be very reflective.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol, Colonisation, Classism, Death of parent, Sexual content, Suicide, Blood, Cancer, Confinement, Vomit, Death, and Racial slurs
salm0n's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I went in to this book knowing nothing about it and have finished feeling like I've always known the story. This book is reflective, witty, and attention holding-- a wonderful introduction to Vonnegut's writing. The ending is just brilliant. I think we all could learn something from Bokononism.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal death, Death of parent, Religious bigotry, Colonisation, and Suicide
Minor: Alcohol, War, and Slavery
idreamofmeme's review against another edition
dark
funny
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Science vs Religion: Who does more for humanity? The answer may surprise you!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Anthropology and religious "worldbuilding" seemlessly flow with the actual plot. Its very funny in places, while still mainting a tone that doesn't undermine the more serious moments. The one criticism I would make is: Mona has no agency. This seems to be a repeating problem in Vonnegut's writing; He can write female characters fine, but he can't resist having at least one who only exists for male gratifcation.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Anthropology and religious "worldbuilding" seemlessly flow with the actual plot. Its very funny in places, while still mainting a tone that doesn't undermine the more serious moments. The one criticism I would make is: Mona has no agency. This seems to be a repeating problem in Vonnegut's writing; He can write female characters fine, but he can't resist having at least one who only exists for male gratifcation.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Death, and Suicide
Moderate: Chronic illness and Death of parent
Minor: Confinement, Racial slurs, and Vomit
Ableist language throught, particularly about a character with restricted growth. Dated rather than malicious, Vonnegut always shows great empathy for all of his characters.
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