Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer


This was one of the first fiction audio books I listened to and the first with multiple narrators. Different voices make characters more compelling and relate-able.

A few years ago, I had a temp job in a warehouse and was able to listen to my iPod while I worked. After getting bored with music all day every day, I got into Pod Casts and then audio books. While I was listening to this book, I'd occasionally find that I'd stopped moving and was standing still, listening intently!

This book evoked an emotional response in me that few others have been able to do. It's the first (and only?) book I've read with 9/11 as a pivotal event in the story. That alone adds a certain emotional heft. The way the present is woven with the past throughout the book is beautiful.

My friend Lea, also an avid reader, warned me that she cried like crazy at the end of this book. I very rarely cry while reading, so I didn't have that response but I did have what I call an "emotional hangover" after finishing!

8 comments:

  1. Gahhhh I did cry sooo much. I love this book!!

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  2. Huh. I bought this not long ago, so I guess I'd better get to reading it. I cry at books and movies, so it will probably make me cry, so thanks for the warning.

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  3. I have tried reading this book a few times and haven't been able to get through it...I really want to finish it though so I think I should try again!

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    1. Maybe you should try the audio book. I am sure it is a different experience from reading the physical book. It is definitely an "odd" story but so worth it. Good luck!

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  4. Awesome! I'm happy to be giving you some great suggestions. Thanks for reading each day, I've been enjoying your book related posts as well!

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  5. My partners Mom has MS and enjoys listening to audio book so this may be a good choice. We are always looking out for something a bit different check out my E challenge @Daisy from
    Daisyinthe willows

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  6. I've heard of this book but I haven't read it. If I do, I'll remember to keep a box of Kleenex nearby.

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  7. I've seen this book, and am always intrigued by the cover... Perhaps I shall check it out. Audio book version.

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