The Luminaries

Tania reviewed The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton

Masterful

5 stars

The writing style captured me from the beginning, although it was sometimes (in the first few sections) a struggle to follow the rather complex plot with so many characters. I really appreciated all the authentic New Zealand (and especially Hokitika) references - wildlife, Maori language and culture, street names, etc. since I discovered and started reading this book in Hokitika itself. However, I think many clever astrological references were lost on me. Despite that I thoroughly enjoyed the book. This would be a great one to take apart in an English Lit. class.

Acton reviewed The Luminaries (Man Booker Prize) by Eleanor Catton

Review of 'The Luminaries (Man Booker Prize)' on 'Goodreads'

5 stars

Ah, this is wonderful story telling, drawing me in and becoming more intriguing, as it progressed. And I had no idea that there was ever a gold rush in New Zealand. Most of this tale takes place in the 1860's, and since I live within easy driving distance of Gettysburg, that time period, in my mind, is all about the American Civil War. (Though I am aware that life in the rest of the world went on...)

There is a long cast of characters in this tale, and at first it looks daunting, but they are introduced and involved in a way that I found clear and memorable. This is a story that will stick to me, and I'm glad that I avoided reading anything about it beforehand, since there are so many secrets that unfold along the way.

I only wish I'd read this tome on vacation, when I …

Ah, this is wonderful story telling, drawing me in and becoming more intriguing, as it progressed. And I had no idea that there was ever a gold rush in New Zealand. Most of this tale takes place in the 1860's, and since I live within easy driving distance of Gettysburg, that time period, in my mind, is all about the American Civil War. (Though I am aware that life in the rest of the world went on...)

There is a long cast of characters in this tale, and at first it looks daunting, but they are introduced and involved in a way that I found clear and memorable. This is a story that will stick to me, and I'm glad that I avoided reading anything about it beforehand, since there are so many secrets that unfold along the way.

I only wish I'd read this tome on vacation, when I had more time, because putting it down so often was rather painful!