Linda B. reviewed Revolutionary Road (Movie Tie-in Edition) (Vintage Contemporaries) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I really enjoyed reading this book. Contrary to the other reviews posted, I found it very interesting and insightful. I have not yet seen the movie, and am curious about how it will be done, because in general the story of the book is bland and sad, but the way the book is written, with pages and pages of inner monolouge which gives you insight into the emotion of the characters, makes the story worthwhile. Without all of the details you get from the characters thought life, I don't think I would like the story line very much.
The characters are real, they go beyond the cliche of middle life suburbia, and they made me think about my own priorities and future. I thought the book was well written, however if you don't like "deep" "contemplative" literature, this may not be the book for you. It takes a bit of engagement to get into it fully.
The characters are real, they go beyond the cliche of middle life suburbia, and they made me think about my own priorities and future. I thought the book was well written, however if you don't like "deep" "contemplative" literature, this may not be the book for you. It takes a bit of engagement to get into it fully.
Hollie R. (hollierobinson42) reviewed Revolutionary Road (Movie Tie-in Edition) (Vintage Contemporaries) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This was a very different read for me. I enjoyed it but found it bitter sweet. It leaves you with a real complacent feeling, as though you too should be doing more with your life. I felt bad for both main characters, April is totally misunderstood by her husband and subject to his endless manipulation and Frank doesn't know how diluted he is. Although many aspects of this book are dated, (its set in the 1950s) it is remarkable how the general theme of the book is very applicable today.
Kristie O. (kristieao) reviewed Revolutionary Road (Movie Tie-in Edition) (Vintage Contemporaries) on + 33 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was very hard to get into and a bit boring at times. I found myself thinking about other things rather than this book. Although, it does have a good story line. Its message is clear and makes you wonder about others "perfect" lives. It ends sad and somewhat predictable.
Sophia C. reviewed Revolutionary Road (Movie Tie-in Edition) (Vintage Contemporaries) on + 289 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I picked up Revolutionary Road because I mistakenly thought it was on the list of 1001 books you must read before you die, but I feel it could be. Richard Yates eloquently writes about alienation in the 1950s. Frank and April Wheeler seem like the quintessential middle-class couple, but Yates' characterization gives a rich, nuanced picture of how they feel trapped in their dystopian suburban Connecticut existence. However, unlike many novels with psychologically detailed portrayals, the plot moves along and touches on profound themes such as love, mental illness, morality and gender roles. It is a satisfying book that makes one reflect on what constitutes a well-lived life.