World Made by Hand: A Novel
by James Howard Kunstler
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Book Reviews of World Made by Hand: A Novel
Book Review: An easy read, but disappointing
Summary: 3 Stars
While the book is quite readable,and as a novel should not be held to strict rules of science or logic, the book disappoints in several ways. Two that stand out for me is the introduction of what appears to be magic towards the end of a realistic style book, and the previously noted role of women in this novel - mostly as housekeepers and nurse, not doctor, elementary school teacher who now does laundry, etc.
I was also surprised that it appeared as if the author suddenly got bored and decided to end the book, giving a brief summary of what life became in the very very near future of the story.
Book Review: Flawed World
Summary: 1 Stars
Many reviewers have noted the sexism in the book, but there are race and class issues as well. All of the characters in Kunstler's book are white; non-whites get a brief mention in passing comments alluding to race wars. It's also distressing that Kunstler seems to think that blue-collar workers would be happy acting out past television shows they've seen, as well as performing X-rated films in front of each other, and ending their evenings with a round of violence. The upper-class character seems unable to resist acquiring serfs/slaves. Very bizarre.Book Review: Intriguing post-oil tale
Summary: 4 Stars
This novel by Kunstler follows up on his non-fiction title "The Long Emergency". The action takes place in small town America where oil and electricity are no longer available. Kunstler develops several characters that seem to leap off the page. Although I found the plot lines somewhat lacking, I think this somewhat intention as to more fully explore what life would be like under these circumstances. Its really hard to say more, without giving too much away, but be prepared for a couple of pages of strange happenings towards the end book!Book Review: Post-apocalypse/not without hope
Summary: 4 Stars
I enjoyed "World Made by Hand." It's unusual and intriguing to find a post-apocalypse story where the setting is not limited to horrific burnt-out urban areas. Although this is one man's story, Kunstler imagines a fairly broad and diverse swathe of society. There are (some) repellant characters and ghastly events, but the overall picture presented is not without hope.
I distrusted the novel at first, because I had a strong suspicion that I knew exactly where the story was headed. Happily, I was wrong.
Book Review: Not against the idea, but the writing
Summary: 2 Stars
I have no problem with Kunstler's politics and predictions of the future, he may be right, although I think he's extreme...
It's the writing here that isn't very good, neither I or my wife could get more than halfway through this, and we are traditional "book-finishers".
The main character, which feels eerily like Kunstler's fantasy version of himself, is highly egotistical, self-righteous, and smug... not unlike Kunstler himself in his non-fiction blogs at his worst.
Try some of his non-fiction instead.