The Friday 56 is hosted at Freda's Voice. Find a quote from page 56.
Check out the links for the rules and for the posts of the participants each week. Participants don't select their favorite, coolest, or most intellectual books, they just use the one they are currently reading. This is the book I'm reading right now---
Title: Character Driver by David Lubar
Book Beginnings:
Thanks God for Alexander Graham Bell. If the phone hadn't started ringing, my crazy-drunk stepfather probably would have finished beating me to death with his belt.Friday 56:
Picture this---admittedly, a strange request, and probably an unnecessary one, given that you've been picturing I've said. i guess we'll have to that "picture this" is a polite way of asking you to pay close attention, and not just skim these words wile you're doing seven other things.Comment: I've only read three pages so far. I do know that the opening paragraph is a literary technique to grab the reader. The narrator's dad is not a drunk or violent. The blurb on the book jacket says this is "a powerful coming-of-age tale told in unadulterated, no-holds-barred teenage boy's voice: by turns honest and untruthful, sarcastic and sweet, inappropriate and hopeful. Boys will recognize themselves and girls will be fascinated by the insights into the mind of a teenage boy."
I like to be grabbed in the opening paragraph, but if the narrator's dad isn't actually violent, then I'm wondering why the author would start the book in this way. I hope it all makes sense and that you enjoy the story.
ReplyDeleteMy Friday post features THE LITTLE FRENCH GUESTHOUSE.
I was so grabbed by the first paragraph I had to read on. Then the page 56 quote tells me that he is writing about writing. It is very readable so I hope I can get through it fast.
DeleteI certainly hope you will enjoy this. I'll admit, I would have passed on the cover, the subject, and certainly the first paragraph. I'd love for you and your readers to check out mine... http://tinyurl.com/LisaKsBookReviewsTGC
ReplyDeleteI am trying to read through the YA books which have garnered 3+ starred reviews. This one qualifies on that score. We'll see if it is worthy of praise soon enough.
DeleteI'm with Lisa, I would have passed, but the excerpts and description make me want to find out more. Thanks for sharing. Here's my Friday Book.
ReplyDeleteIt is really a publishing fete to get a book which readers want to pick up. It is hard to find books which interest boys so I hope this one does that.
DeleteThe author is manipulating us a bit, with that opening paragraph. Now I'm curious, but hesitant to continue. Talk about unreliable characters! lol.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing...and here's mine: “SWEETBITTER”
I love the idea of the character manipulating the audience but acknowledging it right away. It is a cool literary device.
DeleteThis doesn't sound like my kind of book. I hope you enjoy it. I am featuring Soldier by Julie Kagawa this week. Happy reading!
ReplyDeleteAs a librarian I am always looking for "boy books" I hope this qualifies.
DeleteI'm intrigued - especially by the fact that the opening paragraph isn't what it seems. I'm not sure I'd run out and get this one just based off the blurb and cover but based off the excerpt I'll definitely have to look for it.
ReplyDeleteI am discovering that the narrator is practicing literary techniques. It is really very clever.
DeleteTeen angst and drama. That's how the opening feels now that you've mentioned he doesn't really beat the boy. Might be a good one for an afternoon read.
ReplyDeleteMy Friday 56 from Ink and Bone
It is very humorous. I've laughed aloud several times and I'm only on chapter three.
DeletePowerful beginning and interesting 56. Pulled me right in! Happy weekend!
ReplyDeleteI am curious. I'd read more just to know what's going on. Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteIt's definitely a strong beginning and interesting 56 - hope you really enjoy it! Here's my Friday meme
ReplyDeleteSo his step father is beating him and his dad is not violent, two different men? This is a strong beginning.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read anything by this author, but know that I should. That beginning definitely makes it stick out so that you want to go on and read more. Thanks for being my comment partner this month! I've enjoyed checking out your posts, and love the library ones! Just because June is over doesn't mean you won't still see me around here commenting! Have a nice little vacation!
ReplyDeleteWow, this sounds super unique. Hope you enjoy your Sunday!
ReplyDelete