Daniel Montague

This isn’t an easy read. It’s a coming-of-age that challenges the reader. The main protagonist, Theo, is not a good person. He’s not necessarily bad, but he makes horrible decisions, he’s selfish, moody, and often he’s the architect of his own hell. Boris is dynamic and a brilliant counter to Theo. The book is full of nuanced characters. DT knows how to craft a loathsome human in her writing. I highly recommend the audiobook. I did a listen/read combo and it was very enjoyable.

This book is amazing on many levels. Madeline Miller took her time, did her research and really honored her source material. She’s not a prolific writer, she’s a good writer. (I’d put this on my top five, favorite novels) I also highly recommend the audiobook narrated by Perdita Weeks.

I loved it! It's now a top SK for me- how could you not love Luke? Kalisha and brave little Avery Dickson too! I didn't find it politically geared at all. You'd have to be REALLY hyper-partisan to have that be your only take-away. There is mention of the current administration, because it's a part of the zeitgeist of now (when the novel takes place). It gives equal mention to SpongeBob SquarePants. It's not a campaign against Squidward, or the president. Because not everything is all about the president. The novel is about a lot of things, but it has nothing to do with partisn politics.

I underestimated Billie Eilish. I honestly didn’t give her a fair chance. I eat crow. Happier Than Ever is a brilliant pop album and Billie Eilish is a pop music prodigy. Her and her brother, FINNEAS have a magic as a song-writing duo. They are both so young, but have a gift for song craft that seems mature beyond their age. Happier Than Ever is; uncompromising, emotional, poppy, flok-y, dance-y, dark, slow, fast… it’s surprising throughout.