Dustin’s Comments (group member since Jul 13, 2015)

Dustin’s comments from the The Read-a-Thon-ers group.

I finished it last night, yay!!!

I will be there soon!:)

I just hope it doesn't disappoint..

Julanne wrote: "I was a little bothered at first by the clumsy treatment of Sister's mental instability--it's not exactly something you just snap out of like that, is it? But I'm sensing a lot of moral/religious t..."

And oh yes, Roland must be a sociopath, for sure!

No apologies needed.☺

I dont know if I'd call Sister's healing miraculous or not (mental or physical?) I think that her mentall illness is something she'll always deal with, on some level or another. We're not always in her head, so I'm sure there are times through the novel that she struggles; we might not see it, is all. I love that you brought up the recurring moral/religious theme. You see it more and more, especially later when the mark of Caine and Job's mask become very real and common instances.

I have a theory on the "mark," which can also, I beieve, be found in the book of Revelations.

Jules, I don't think you're over-analyzing at all. In fact, Swan Song seems to be layered with Biblical references/themes.

I never thought of the glass ring coming from the angel statue and, in turn, alluding to Swan being an anglic force to unite her people, but she is mighty powerful (view spoiler)[and she seems to be doing just that. (hide spoiler)] She is awesome!!

Jules, Greg, how the heck are you guys? Long time no see, no?
Anyway, I found your comment above so compelling and it reminded me just how much I LOVE this book that I simply had to join you guys. I'm only seventy-one pages in, but I'll try my best to catch up. I am very much looking forward to discussing Swan Song in full!

Thank you very much, I cannot wait to get started!:) Once you do post your review, would you post the link to it here, so that we may read it? Happy New Year, y'all!!

Woo-hoo, my hardcover copy arrived today, and it is beautiful! It's used, so there are a couple worn spots on the corners of the dust jacket, but overall, I love it. Here's the link to the one I have:

Great news, guys! I finally ordered a copy of the book and Ghost Story should be here any day!

Yes, I read it back in 2006 and it's been a favorite ever since. It really sticks with you. No, McCammon's prose is surprisingly simplistic and a breeze to get through. The pages fly by! Agreed, all of the characters possess a genuine realness and honesty about them that sadly, a lot of authors lack. I've read a couple of his other books, and the same goes for them. He's an incredibly gifted storyteller. I'm so glad you're enjoying it! You know what, I'm half tempted to join you guys.:)

I am so glad you're liking it, Jules! It's a very disconcerting story, but seeing as it is "an expression of fear" (great point, by the way,) I think this was definitely intentional. I'm also glad that you appreciate McCammon's writing. It flows almost seamlessly, doesn't it? Very accessible, indeed!

Hey, Greg! I will check it out, but I agree that you should write a full review. I'd definitely read it, too. I really appreciate your insight here.:)

Greg wrote: "I'm glad. I hope you find something to enjoy in it when you do :)"

Oh man, I'm so sorry to have left you guys hanging...I just kind of disappeared. I still don't own the book, but I plan on ordering it soon. Greg, your five stars is an great site, and very encouraging, too! Did you write a review?

How are you, Jules?

No, forget that. I WILL read this one, and soon. I won't give up!

Julanne wrote: "Greg wrote: "Lol, I feel blessed that Julanne picked the book! It just clicked with me at the right time. I've meant to read this for a long time, but kept finding reasons not to. This hasn't entir..."

I'm glad to hear that.:)

Greg wrote: "Lol, I feel blessed that Julanne picked the book! It just clicked with me at the right time. I've meant to read this for a long time, but kept finding reasons not to. This hasn't entirely been a ha..."

I agree. Some of the best stories aren't always happy, and that's the way it should be, IMO. Who wants bells and whistles all the time, anyway, right? A great story should take the reader on an emotional roller coaster.

Maybe. I doubt it.

Thanks, Greg.:) Unfortunately, I can't seem to read much of anything. I haven't even started this one...

Greg wrote: "The sense of dread seems to be piling up like the snow falling in the story! I love how Straub mentions things early in the book and then revisits them from a different point of view later, even te..."

That sounds awesome, and very impressive! You seem to be enjoying it.:)

I have my copy now and cannot wait to get started! I'm excited! How are you all coming along?

Yes, I've read The Talisman and Black House, along with The Hellfire Club, and enjoyed them very much. I'm definitely interested in his other work, and this is a great opportunity. Hopefully the final Jack Sawyer book is out next year!!

Happy reading, guys!