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Search - Atonement
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Atonement Author: |
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Book Information
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Other Versions of this Book: Hardcover, Audio CD (Unabridged), Hardcover, Audio Cassette (Unabridged), Audio Cassette (Abridged), Audio CD (Abridged)
Book Description:
Ian McEwan's symphonic novel of love and war, childhood and class, guilt and forgiveness provides all the satisfaction of a brilliant narrative and the provocation we have come to expect from this master of English prose.
On a hot summer day in 1935, thirteen-year-old Briony Tallis witnesses a moment's flirtation between her older sister, Cecilia, and Robbie Turner, the son of a servant and Cecilia's childhood friend. But Briony's incomplete grasp of adult motives-together with her precocious literary gifts-brings about a crime that will change all their lives. As it follows that crime's repercussions through the chaos and carnage of World War II and into the close of the twentieth century, Atonement engages the reader on every conceivable level, with an ease and authority that mark it as a genuine masterpiece.
On a hot summer day in 1935, thirteen-year-old Briony Tallis witnesses a moment's flirtation between her older sister, Cecilia, and Robbie Turner, the son of a servant and Cecilia's childhood friend. But Briony's incomplete grasp of adult motives-together with her precocious literary gifts-brings about a crime that will change all their lives. As it follows that crime's repercussions through the chaos and carnage of World War II and into the close of the twentieth century, Atonement engages the reader on every conceivable level, with an ease and authority that mark it as a genuine masterpiece.
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Top Member Book Reviews
Jessica M. (
18 member(s) found this review helpful.
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.
Matt B. (
15 member(s) found this review helpful.
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.
Barbara R. (
10 member(s) found this review helpful.
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.
Kerry B. (
9 member(s) found this review helpful.
It is a quiet summer day in 1935 England. This otherwise peaceful day culminates in a single tragic event that entirely shapes the second part of the story. McEwan uses first half of book to describe this days happenings from many points of view. The replay of simple domestic activities through the eyes of one person after another slows the story at first. Story picks up intensity towards the end of part I.
The story is action filled WWII fiction in part II. The reason McEwan retells story from so many different points of view in part I becomes clear in last 50 pages. Recommended mostly for those who enjoy character driven fiction or European period writing.
Well written story, a Golden Globe winning film in 2007.
Tracy T. (
9 member(s) found this review helpful.
I've just finished, and all I can say is... wow. Just wow. I stepped into this book (and the movie) knowing exactly what the ending was, but that didn't prepare me at all. Both movie and book made me cry about five times apiece. (Even on the second time I saw the movie.) You will genuinely feel for these characters-- you will hate Briony, you will empathize with Cecilia, but most of all, you will feel horrible for Robbie. Oh how I loved and pitied him! I credit Ian McEwan for giving a startlingly realistic depiction of the war and being able to evoke such human emotion. Read this book, or at the very least, see the movie. They're both excellent.
8 member(s) found this review helpful.
At first, this feels like one of those books that is well written, but somehow not entertaining enough. The insight into character is very true, very perceptive, but plot arrives at such a slow pace. And yet it's obviously very deliberate, very controlled writing. I enjoyed the old-fashioned character analysis and the way he handled the growing emotional connection between Cecelia and Robbie was beautiful. The way he made emotional catalysts equally as important as the physical to the plot line is quite remarkable. I think I liked the book--it's definitely one to contemplate more in the future. (They're making a movie of this soon and I honestly cannot imagine this will translate well to the screen--especially with the way it ends!)
7 member(s) found this review helpful.
I can't decide whether I liked this book or didn't. The language is very flowery - so much so that you can skim entire pages and not miss what's going on. It was very easy to put down, but I was compelled to finish it. The story seems a little improbable - I understand that it was a different time, but I can't imagine the police taking the word of a child over the victim herself (who was unsure), and without investigating further. Some of the imagery is pretty stunning, and it was a good story, but probably not one I would re-read, or go out of my way to recommend. It reminded me of a play - not necessarily a bad thing. It would translate well to the theatre. Maybe I'm in a minority in my opinion about the brilliance of this book, but I was very lukewarm on it.
7 member(s) found this review helpful.
Fantastic. He understands the psychology of his characters and gives great attention to detail.
Jennie B. (
7 member(s) found this review helpful.
Ultimately one of the best books I have ever read! Took a little while to get into and then the book just flies.
Kelly W. (
6 member(s) found this review helpful.
Once I got past the fist 90 pages, this book was absolutely wonderful. The setting up takes a while, but makes it so worth it because you can truly capture the mood of the characters. I could hardly put it down once I got into it.
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Please Rate these Book Reviews
Melinda C. (I have tried to read this book several time and just couldn't get "into" it. A friend said that it doesn't get interesting until after the first few chapters.
One of the best books I have ever read by one of my favourite authors.
Shanan O. (A beautifully crafted book with a satisfying ending. Riveting, emotional and strong.
Excellent condition
I had an order for this book on 1/17/07. I have been doing inventory at work and just saw the order. Now it isn't on my list so I can't mail it. Sorry. I still have it and will send it.
One of the best books I have read in a long time. Memorable story and characters.
Every sentence was wonderfully writtren and important to they story. So glad I found this author at PaperBackSwap. Will definetly be reading more of his work. National Bestseller. Booker Prize Finalist.
Read All Book Reviews of "Atonement"
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