Search - Atonement

In the first part, we are inside the head of a 13-year-old woman-child with introspective literary leanings. After that strange terrain, we guys find more recognizable ground: retreating with the British Army to Dunkirk and being strafed, scared, hungry, lonely. This part rocks. In the third part we witness the fall-out of a lie that changes the lives of everybody near its telling. Finally, in the last part, a short part, oh the irony. Each part has its own appeal since McEwan writes pretty and lucid prose, at a good pace, for thinking adults.

I tried to read this book a few years ago, but I couldn't get into it. I must say, I'm glad I tried again. This time around, I couldn't put the book down. It's a beautifully written story, and the author perfectly captures the emotions of the characters and the moods of the situations. I can easily see why this was on Time magazine's list of 100 all-time novels. It was one of the best books I have read in a while. It's a captivating story and remarkably well-written.

This is one of the best books that I have ever read.
Mr. McEwan's writing is incredible. His descriptions of places and characters put the reader right in the scene. The author squeezes out of us a whole range of emotions while reading this book. We go from love to hate to fear to hope and despair.
I can't wait to read his others.

I could not get into this book. It really dragged for me. Very confusing and all over the place.

Great book. The movie was well done, but the book is, too.

I actually saw this movie before I read the book (which is the opposite of what usually happens).

I thought the prose of the writer was lovely - absolutely beautiful. However, I did think that Part One of the book was very slow and tedious reading. I felt that if I had not seen the movie, I might not have gotten through it. It's rambling and seemingly pointless at times.

Once past Part One, it moves at a much more lively pace. I liked this book (although it is quite sad!) Would definitely recommend, just keep in mind you'll be trudging through the first bit.