Comments on: War in Reverse…

By: Gerry Manacsa

Gerry Manacsa — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 20:32:24 +0000

Slaughterhouse-Five is one of those books that has had more influence on me than I quite realize. It left me with a gift that only a few novels have been able to give — an entirely new way of seeing the world. I hope you'll forgive a little bit of a self-promoting plug here, but I thought others who are interested in sampling Vonnegut might be interested... the company I work for gives away digital versions of five of Vonnegut's works for free. Most people — myself included — have mixed feelings about pleasure reading in ebook format, but at minimum, it's a great way to read extended passages to get a feel for the work. In any event, Slaughterhouse-Five is essential reading. I've read it two or three times now in the last decade, and each time it leaves me sobered and mindful. By the way, the 1972 film adaptation is surprisingly good, too, given the depth and narrative complexity of the material. As for follow-up Vonnegut reads, I've started Cat's Cradle several times now, and haven't quite fallen into the flow enough to dive in. But it remains high on my list of read-it-soons…

By: J.S. Peyton

J.S. Peyton — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 12:37:35 +0000

That’s ok, Brandon. I’m a firm believer in the ‘better-late-than-never’ philosophy. It’s good to be back after a much-needed break.

By: J.S. Peyton

J.S. Peyton — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 12:30:39 +0000

Heather, my TBR list is full of books I should have read but haven’t. I actually never intended to read this one, but George Saunders gave a convincing argument for doing so. I think it’ll have been one of the best reading decisions I’ll have made all year.

By: J.S. Peyton

J.S. Peyton — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 12:27:53 +0000

Indeed, J Scott Savage. I had to pause and process after certain passages just to make sure I was taking it all in. An excellent book, which I look forward to reading again some time in the furture.

By: J.S. Peyton

J.S. Peyton — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 12:25:50 +0000

Calum, I think Cat’s Cradle just might be my next Vonnegut book. I’m really looking forward to delving more into Vonnegut’s writing. Especially if it’s as good as Slaughterhouse-Five.

By: Brandon

Brandon — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 03:37:17 +0000

God, I missed you. I’m glad you’re back. (I should’ve said that sooner, but hey, I’m a guy. What do you expect?)

By: Heather (errantdreams)

Heather (errantdreams) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:37:59 +0000

Another book I should read but haven’t. I love that depiction of war in reverse!

By: J Scott Savage

J Scott Savage — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 04:05:06 +0000

I read Slaughterhouse-Five back in high school and thought I understood it. Then I read it about ten years later and thought, “Wow did I read the same book.” Very, very good,and very thought provoking.

By: Calum

Calum — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:39:52 +0000

Awesome. Now you have to read the rest of them, Vonnegut's one of my favourite authors. You should move on to Cat's Cradle next, that and Slaughterhouse-Five are probably his most popular works. Bluebeard is my personal favourite, but they're all great.