This book (series) appeals to me because of the strong characterization of the main character. Throughout this series, we can identify with Maisie Dobbs because the author as made us privy to her thoughts and her modus operandi. Each new book in the series allows us to see this character grow as the world changes around her. The supporting characters are also vividly drawn and the richness of the characters creates a world that I enjoy dipping into. Another very strong appeal factor for this title is detail. This series takes place in the period of time after World War I. The setting, in England, is vividly evoked with a great deal of attention to detail. The third characteristic of this series that appealsto me is the story line. Each title has a number of twists and turns and a mystery to solve. Because a situation is presented early on and an answer to that situation needs to be found, the pace of the book is rather quick. At the same time, the rich drawing of the characters allows one to get lost in the story line and savor it's description.
Laurie Notaro is another author that appeals to me. Tone of the book is funny - very funny. This is a non-fiction work. Ms. Notaro shares with us the insanity of life from her point of view. I relate to the character and the find myelf drawn into the stories of her antics. I can empathize with some of the author's stories. On those that I don't, I feel a sympathy for her plight. There really isn't a plot to this book, but rather a series of short vignettes about the doings in her life. The pacing is fairly quick.
This book has an emotional appeal.
Barb, based on your enjoyment of these titles, may I suggest (as part of my Week #2 assignment):
ReplyDelete"Little Altars Everywhere" by Rebecca Wells. I've never laughed so hard at a book. I read it before "Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood" and liked it better. Strong characters and hilarious vignettes.
"I Was Told There'd Be Cake" by Sloane Crosley. If the title alone doesn't sell you, these are quirky, funny observational essays in the manner of David Sedaris, if David Sedaris was a modern day NYC career woman.