deborahwithanoh's review against another edition
A big fan of this book! While still distinctively Shteyngartian, this is the first book of his I've read with an ensemble cast, and the first book I've read, period, that tackles the coronavirus pandemic with the satirical bent I feel it deserves. Thoroughly enjoyable, I would recommend.
scottflanary's review against another edition
1.0
This book started strong: a diverse group of people fleeing the city during early COVID create a little community that meshes business and pleasure. Once the plot got going I lost interest quickly. It's hard to describe why, but one of the things that felt off-putting was the constant referrals to Russian novels, as if this novel was trying to structure itself like one.
sarenasbookadventures's review against another edition
3.0
Not quite sure what to think about this one. Our Country Friends is a novel about a group of people who gather in upstate New York to wait out the COVID-19 pandemic. Each person in this story is distinct, harboring their own unique characteristics. It brought back memories of meeting family outside, socially distanced and wearing masks. It stirred up feelings of grief for the loved ones lost to COVID. But I’m not quite sure I liked it all that much. I have no doubt that Shteyngart is a phenomenal writer but I just did not vibe with this book.
leahkm's review against another edition
dark
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
slow-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
4.5
katiejaye's review against another edition
1.0
I strongly disliked this book. I decided to finish it for a book challenge.
lauraa06's review against another edition
DNF. Despite a good premise, this book was just too slow for me, and I couldn't get vested in any of the characters. Maybe I'll try again later since so many people raved about it.
viviantuyle's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
chloeinletters's review against another edition
3.0
I try not to abandon books but this one I couldn’t get through. I got like two hours into the audio book and everyone was very annoying. Obviously intentional but not my kind of writing to enjoy.