Skeletons at the Feast
by Chris Bohjalian
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Book Reviews of Skeletons at the Feast
Book Review: Not what I expected.
Summary: 4 Stars
Having been a huge fan of "Midwives" I ordered this book with high expectations. It couldn't have been more different from "Midwives" if another author had written it. Though it took me a while, I did finally "get into" the book, and I did what I always do with good reads and stayed up till the wee hours of the morning finishing it. I was devastated when my favorite characters were tragically killed, and I am still bemused by the ending as I was unable to decide what significance the author wanted me to see there. However, I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys novels with historical settings as well as anyone who doesn't mind having to do a little thinking while they read.Book Review: A disappointing Read
Summary: 2 Stars
I believe Chris Bohjalian is one of the better modern novelists and many of his past books have moved me while also causing me to reflect. sadly, his latest book, "Skeletons at the Feast" is a disappointment. Lacking in character development Bohjalian's latest novel tells the tragic story of the chaos of the final days of WWII in Germany. Unfortunately, this story is only superficially unfolded in Bohjalian's book. In his prior novels Bohjalian created characters that were hauntingly real. That is not the case in this effort and, as a result, the historical events, fascinating though they are, seem populated by cardboard cut-outs rather than real people.Book Review: A must read
Summary: 5 Stars
Chris Bohjalian's, Skeletons at the Feast, is a must read. His approach, portrayal and understanding of this horrific time in history are quite remarkable. Bohjalian does not exaggerate nor does he sensationalize this dark time. He shares a snapshot of the brutality heaped upon some...but weaves in the goodness and caring of others. This story reminds us how vigilant we must remain in order to not let hatred and intolerance get in the way of our morals and ethics as human beings. I applaud Bohjalian for sharing that hope and beauty rest within each of us.
Beth G. Reisboard
Executive Director, Gerda and Kurt Klein Foundation
Book Review: Great Historical Fiction
Summary: 5 Stars
I am glad to see that most reviewers feel the same as I - that this was one terrific book. Too graphic, too disjointed - did not find this to be the case at all. I was captivated on page one and engaged all the way through. This was a different take on WWII and the Holocaust - something a bit more personal. This is an important work of fiction and one that should be shared with as many adults and young adults as possible. This is the first book I've read by this author. I now look forward to reading his other books. Skeletons of the Feast is highly recommended by this reviewer!Book Review: Even better than I expected
Summary: 5 Stars
This is the fourth novel of Bohalian's I've read, and it is his best work. A week ago I would have said Double Bind was his best, but Skeletons at the Feast topped that.
Everything - emotions, scenery, characters, events - is believable and true-to-life. There are no dull sentences let alone dull chapters. The ending left me missing the characters, but it wasn't one of the endings that leave you going "Huh? Where'd that come from?"
Don't wait for the movie (which I can't imagine not being made with this amazing story), read this now.