Play Book Tag discussion

In this group of stories by Anthony Marra, the author links characters' lives together in unique ways. Sometimes it is through a family member, a painting, a field or even music. The connections will eventually bring the reader back to the beginning. I liked this writing style and felt the book developed like a novel.

The setting is in Russia and covers different time frames. Life is difficult for most of the people in the stories and amongst others we see a dancer, an actress, an artist, and soldiers. The stories involve elements of betrayal, love, loss, regret and death.

The author does not include full details about all situations, and at times things are expressed indirectly. Enough information is there though so the reader understands the characters and their growth. I appreciated the structure and how the stories added to each other. It was a very interesting book.

A top ten of 2016 book for me. I love Marra's writing so much.

#1 of 2016 for me. Loved it. Glad you enjoyed it too.

Top Ten for me also, and the same for A Constellation of Vital Phenomena

Really enjoyed this one! That's the power of PBT. I never would have picked up this one or Constellation, and I greatly loved them both.

So happy to see you enjoyed this one, Kelly! I thought you would like the writing, but wasn't sure about the structure. Glad you appreciated the whole thing so much.

Anita wrote: "So happy to see you enjoyed this one, Kelly! I thought you would like the writing, but wasn't sure about the structure. Glad you appreciated the whole thing so much."

I had no issues with the structure. I like when someone takes a different approach.

Amy wrote: "Really enjoyed this one! That's the power of PBT. I never would have picked up this one or Constellation, and I greatly loved them both."

I'm with you Amy, I find it happens over and over that I would never have picked a particular book up except for the PBT reviews!

How was Ireland for you, Barbara? lol!