GR Hansen

Okay, make it a 3.5. The book definitely got better as it moved along. At first, the author sounded like just another crabby old guy whining about change. But the tone of his sarcasm improved, became more humorous. As an American, I'm glad I read this book while visiting England. I'll read more of his work.

It's fine, batter than average even. But please, I beg you, don't ask me to read a business book again. Books are a special thing for me, poetry and fiction and even some biography and history. But these biz books, argh. Sure, I pull some nuggets of wisdom, a few important highlights, 3 or 4 notes to record. But it's often wrapped in so much self serving gush. No more.

This book had everything I love. Character development and word choices and literary references and a bit of cultural history and relational suspense. One of my favorite reads this year.

Beautifully written, brief and powerful, this book should be a must-read for any aspiring writer. Steinbeck can bring characters to life like few other authors.

Interesting that a book about a failed writer would be filled with captivating writing, but overall be not enjoyable. I'm glad I read it. And more glad I'm done with it. This one is headed for a Little Free Library near me.