Bookmarks Subscribers discussion

I was really undecided about this book after I finished reading it. Part of me liked the story about Edgar and his new breed of dogs; yet another part of me was unsatisfied with parts of the story and its ending. I think one thing that contributed to my dissatisfaction was all the hype surrounding the book. All that build-up, I guess I expected something different. I felt the story had more possibilities than what the author eventually did with it.

I enjoyed Wroblewski's writing style, although parts of the book moved slow. I never really got the whole isolation, "ghost story" angle the author was trying for. I actually liked the loose ends that some people have complained about because I enjoyed making my own interpretations about the book. I also didn't mind the sad ending; just found it somewhat unbelievable.

The book provoked a lot of discussion in book group. I liked the book a little more after our discussions. It helped to talk out some of the plot issues. It was amazing how many of us had different interpretations or who just didn't get or missed some of the details. Overall, the book had a good premise, but lacked a little in the delivery.

I have heard comments all over the place about this book. I almost want to read it just because of that. Thanks for your posting! Very interesting!

I read the book in December and I have found that distance makes the heart grow fonder. I truly believe that the whole Oprah hype ruined the story. It was hard to appreciate the novel for what it was when I was expecting to be wowed.

I have found that most Oprah books are garbage. There were a few good ones in there.

I think you are all so right about the build-up setting you up for disappointment. I read this before Oprah got ahold of it, and actually enjoyed it, I think partly because I had few expectations. I enjoyed recognizing it resembled Hamlet in plot before I read that about it (made me feel intelligent for a day or so!) I thought Edgar was well fleshed out, but the rest of the characters felt a little one dimensional.

After this most recent issue of Bookmarks, I am more inclined to read this book now because I LOVE Hamlet. This might be a summer read for me.

This book made me ANGRY! I looked forward to reading day after day but the end just had too many story lines unresolved, to0 many characters hanging, to many themes undeveloped. I actually got out of bed after finishing it and stormed down the stairs saying "I can't believe I looked forward to this thing EVERY DAY . . . that time was WASTED!" Rarely do I react that way to a book! Must put it on my list to trade!