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ISBN-13: 9780446605236 - ISBN-10: 0446605239 Publication Date: 2/1/2004 Pages: 256 |
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Book Reviews of The Notebook
211 Book Reviews submitted by our Members
sorted by voted most helpful
Debra L. (
7 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is an older book, but if you read one great book this year-let this be the one. Good things come in small packages. A short novel of excellent quality. This was made into a movie-but as always, the book is better. A celebration of passion. An enduring love. This one will make you cry. A book you will not forget.....ever. This is one of those books that you must read before you die. Don't be fooled into thinking this is a standard romance, because it is not. A must read for everyone, regardless of what type of book you enjoy.
TJ S. (
7 member(s) found this review helpful.
In 1932, two North Carolina teenagers from opposite sides of the tracks fall in love. Spending one idyllic summer together in the small town of New Bern, Noah Calhoun and Allie Nelson do not meet again for 14 years. Noah has returned from WWII to restore the house of his dreams, having inherited a large sum of money. Allie, programmed by family and the "caste system of the South" to marry an ambitious, prosperous man, has become engaged to powerful attorney Lon Hammond. When she reads a newspaper story about Noah's restoration project, she shows up on his porch step, re-entering his life for two days. Will Allie leave Lon for Noah? The book's slim dimensions and cliche-ridden prose will make comparisons to The Bridges of Madison County inevitable. What renders Sparks's (Wokini: A Lakota Journey of Happiness and Self-Understanding) sentimental story somewhat distinctive are two chapters, which take place in a nursing home in the '90s, that frame the central story. The first sets the stage for the reading of the eponymous notebook, while the later one takes the characters into the land beyond happily ever after, a future rarely examined in books of this nature. Early on, Noah claims that theirs may be either a tragedy or a love story, depending on the perspective. Ultimately, the judgment is up to readers?be they cynics or romantics. For the latter, this will be a weeper.
Stacie F. (
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
I'm not usually a fan of books that jump around in time, but this one is an exception. The leaps from present-day into memory take the reader on an incredible journey into life and love.
Lenore D. (
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
Made me CRY! I read this book in one sitting, then called my best friend and made her go get it immediately! She finished it that night and called me to yell at me the next morning because her eyes were still puffy!
Amber
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
OMG This has to be the most wonderful love story EVER to be written! I cried, I laughed, I was jealous, I was angry! It Is about unconditional love in all it's glory. I feel like this is the dream when you think about how you want to be loved! If you haven't read it, READ IT!!!
Jennifer P. (
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
I absolutely loved this book! I was turned on to Nicholas Sparks books when I read Message in a Bottle, I now own every book by this author. His writing hits you right where you can feel it the most.
Grab your tissues as you take the journey of Allie and Noah, and the destiny of love.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Nicholas Sparks really touches the heart. I liked this book about a loving, lasting relationship from the perspective of an elderly man whose wife suffers from Alzheimer's disease.
Jocelyn E. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was my first Nicholas Sparks book, so I didn't know to expect the schmaltz, sentimentality, and plain improbability and predictability of the plot that apparently are hallmarks of his writing. This was nothing more than a Harlequin romance souped up with a fancy cover. I was mad that I finished it because it was so darn cheesy and hokey. I didn't care a whit for the characters and knew from the beginning they'd be together at the end.
All the women I know "looooooove Nicholas Sparks!" but I fail to see the allure. If all his books are as lame as this one, I do not want to read any more. Barf.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
At thirty-one, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At twenty-nine, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle...
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
At 31, Noah Calhoun, bak in coastal North Carolina after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At 29, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle...
Joan K. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Heartwarming love story that will stay with you long after you have read the book. I consider this the best of Nicholas Spark's novels I have read.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I think this is one of the best books I have ever read. Once I read this book, I turned into a huge Nicholas Sparks fan, he is one of my favorite authors. This book was a page turner and I ended up not being able to put it down. You will fall in love with the characters and the story line. I also recommend seeing the movie once you have finished the book.
Jennifer C. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I absolutly LOVED The Notebook. After having watched the movie, I had to read the book, and I'm glad that I did. It was even better than the film, and that is like, WOW! I finished this book within 1 sitting, and had to have a box of tissues at my disposal, because it sure is a tear jerker. I loved it, and it's staying on my keeper shelf.
Shannon B. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I loved the movie so I decided to read the book. As much as I wish I could say that I loved it as well, it just isn't the case. I found the book at times painful to read, not because of the story line, but because of how it drug on. I was really disappointed in this book.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Better than the movie, in my opinion...
Another great book by Nicholas Sparks. I couldn't put it down...we should all be loved as much as the woman in this book.
Jennifer W. (Reviewed by Taylor Rector for TeensReadToo.com
THE NOTEBOOK is the romance novel of this generation!
Ali and Noah are two very different people, or characters, depending on how you think about it. Ali is from a wealthy family that thinks very highly of themselves, and Noah was raised by his father and has had to work for every penny he has. Which is not much. The characters come alive and it is almost like you personally know both of them. It’s amazing! Ali takes a vacation to New Bern where Noah lives. As the summer progresses, their relationship grows stronger and stronger and they fall in love. They fight all the time, but for some crazy reason they are madly in love.
Then the summer ends.
Noah and Ali are devastated that she has to leave. Her parents won’t let her stay because they think that she is too good for him. It’s absolutely devastating. He writes her letters, which she never receives because her mother intercepts and keeps them. She thinks that Noah has forgotten her.
Then World War II begins.
Noah is deployed for a couple of years and comes home when the war is over. During this time, Ali gets engaged to Lon, a lawyer who her parents approve of because he is socially acceptable. Noah buys an old plantation and fixes it up, and he and the house wind up in the newspaper. So Ali decides that she needs to go see Noah before she gets married, even though she hasn’t seen him in fourteen years. At their reunion, they realize that they never fell out of love.
Read the book to find out who Ali chooses, Noah or Lon!
Susan M. I loved this book! Great love story! I couldn't put it down (except to blow my nose!lol)
Brandon J. (I am not ashamed at all to say I enjoyed Nicholas Sparks' wonderful book, "The Notebook", and its equally-impressive movie version. The tale is simple and classic, about young love, loss, reignition, and tragedy, and all readers are able to connect. Men who wish not to read this novel are punishing themselves - told from the man's point of view, this book is highly relatable to males of all mature ages. I do recommend this book, especially if you're looking for a quick read that isn't mindless. Also, keep the tissues handy, especially if you're easily saddened - this book will force tears out of you even if you don't want them to come!
Tonya T. (I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!! I was totally in tears at the end. Recommended, even if you have seen the movie.
Liked the book; loved the movie. Not too many I can say that about.
Jeanette R. (i hated the ending to this movie but found the book for $1 at the swap meet. and loved it! beautifully written, and the story goes into more detail about the characters. they dont just die suddenly together- which is so not real, and what i hated about the movie. if you like love stories, this is the best. its full of humor, love, romance, and sadness. such a great story.
JUST LIKE ALL OF NICHOLAS SPARKS BOOKS, I LOVED THIS ONE TOO.
Kimberly love story, you will love it. It didn't sell millions without a reason.
Yvonne a truly touching book... true love conquers all.. i enjoyed this story and author.
I could hardly read this book from all the tears in my eyes. Can a love like this truley exist???
The movie was better than the book. I did watch the movie before I read the book so maybe that made a difference.
Jessica H. (The first book by Nicholas Sparks I ever read....and still my FAVORITE! Such an incredible love story. I think I read it in an afternoon...I couldn't put it down! You have to finish it up with "The Wedding" which is the sequal. Nicholas Sparks is one of my favorite authors.
Cathy M. (It's Nicholas Sparks! Need I say more???? Great book!!
Have the tissues handy! The book was way better than the movie.
June P. (A great love story. Get the tissues ready because it is a tear jerker. Loved this book!
At first I wasn't sure that I would like this book, I don't usually enjoy historical fiction, but was pleasently surprised. This book was a beautiful love story! I look forward to reading The Wedding next.
Amy H. (I read this book in only one day several years ago. A lovely story. My favorite Sparks book.
Dena R. (Not a fan of this book - although I'm about the only one who has thought that!
Irene N. (
Larry G. (A beautiful story about true love and how it endures. A wonderful book that is hard to put down.
Well I think most of you know this story line. I am just a little behind the times. Its very sweet and sad. I liked it even though I am not the most sappy person out there.
This book is so touching. I just loved it. It will make you cry (but in a good way), yet is a fast read...perfect for upcoming summer vacations!
Susan G. (WONDERFUL love story.... tender and timeless... i laughed and I cried... a truly memorable read
Pat V. (Incredibly sweet love story that reminds us that love isn't just for the young.
If you enjoyed the movie, you will love the book. A great, emotional read.
A classic love story told in Nicholas Spark's fashion. You will laugh, cry and feel the love from this book!!
At 31, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after WWII, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At 29, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle.
I cried and cried. Great story, however, "The Wedding" was a total let-down (the sequel).
In 1932, two North Carolina teenagers from opposite sides of the tracks fall in love. Spending one idyllic summer together in the small town of New Bern, Noah Calhoun and Allie Nelson do not meet again for 14 years. Noah has returned from WWII to restore the house of his dreams, having inherited a large sum of money. Allie, programmed by family and the "caste system of the South" to marry an ambitious, prosperous man, has become engaged to powerful attorney Lon Hammond. When she reads a newspaper story about Noah's restoration project, she shows up on his porch step, re-entering his life for two days. Will Allie leave Lon for Noah? The book's slim dimensions and cliche-ridden prose will make comparisons to The Bridges of Madison County inevitable. What renders Sparks's (Wokini: A Lakota Journey of Happiness and Self-Understanding) sentimental story somewhat distinctive are two chapters, which take place in a nursing home in the '90s, that frame the central story. The first sets the stage for the reading of the eponymous notebook, while the later one takes the characters into the land beyond happily ever after, a future rarely examined in books of this nature. Early on, Noah claims that theirs may be either a tragedy or a love story, depending on the perspective. Ultimately, the judgment is up to readers?be they cynics or romantics. For the latter, this will be a weeper. Major ad/promo; first serial to Good Housekeeping; movie rights to New Line Cinema; Warner Audio; Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Club main selections.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
The kind of love we all wish for but probably never achieve. Wonderfully written.
Chris R. (I love everything by Nicholas Sparks. He writes beautifully. This is a wonderful story about life and love. Fabulous!!
Jennifer J. (Every so often a love story so captures our hearts that it becomes more than a story -- it becomes an experience to remember forever. THE NOTEBOOK is such a book. It is a celebration of how passion can be ageless and timeless, a tale that moves us to laughter and tears and makes us believe in true love all over again...
Cover is different but it written by the same person and titled the same.
Easy read, not the best written, but I still got sappy and cried like a baby.
The story of an older couple how they metand the bumps along the way. Made into amovie. A good read!!
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! SOO ROMANTIC!! I HAVE THE MOVIE EDITION COVER!! BUT THe ISBN MATCHES THE COVER POSTED!!
Not my type book. Sensitive and commanding for those who like the romantic type.
excellent book for ended differently than the movie though still an excellent read.
I HAVE to go see the movie.. the book had me crying. Dont miss this one!
At thirty-one, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after WWII, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At twenty-nine, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle....
You better read with a box if tissues....great read!!
Good book. Met Nicholas Sparks at a book signing and he stated that his books are not romance novels as they don't always end "happily ever after". Anyway I enjoy his books.
I LOVED this book and I am normally a thriller reader. I made everyone I knew read it. You will not be able to put it down!
One of the best authors in my time.
The lyrical beauty of this touching love story will captivate the heart of every reader
A wonderfully romantic story. You will laugh and cry throughout this story and you will definitely grow to love the characters. It makes you belevie in true love afterall!!
Wonderful book, this is one of my favorite authors. Very fast read, but memorable characters.
i love this story, its one of a kind, something you could read over and over again!!! Sparks has captured the true meaning of neverending Love.
Loved it, loved it, loved it. This is one of my favorites. I have the movie too! Anything by Nicholas Sparks is a must read.
A bit different than the movie, but it still tells a great story about two soul mates.
Heartwarming story of the power of LOVE. After a decade apart love endures---this book will tug at your heartstrings and bring tears so have the tissues handy.
At 31, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after Worl War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At 29, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph and may even have the power to creat a miracle.
A quick and easy read, but surprisely touching. Better than the movie!
There has never been a more beautiful love story. Every married couple must read this book. It will change your life!
Now made into a movie, this book is about a boy and a girl who fall in love as teenagers, and their ups and downs through out the years. I REALLY enjoyed the movie, so I had to read the book as well. It was good!
At 31, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At 29, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle...
At thirty-one Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after World War II is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At twent-nine, Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she can't stop thinking about Noah who stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph and may even have the power to create a miracle.
If you like a story that will captivate your heart then this is the one
Beautiful love story that shows that romance can last forever. Not recommended for children.
Elaine G. (At thirty-one, Noah calhoun, back in coastal North carlina after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At twenty-nine,socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love se enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into trumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle...
This is the 2004 cover art version from the major motion picture. One of my favorite stories of enduring love.
Most people have seen the movie, never saw it but books are better!
"Somewhere," muses Noah Calhoun, while sitting on his porch in the moonight, "there were people making love." Anyway, head elsewhere for Great Literature, but if you're in the market to get your heartstrings plucked, look no further. The Notebook, a Southern-fried story of love-lost-and-found-again, revolves around a single time-honored romantic dilemma: will beautiful Allison Nelson stay with Mr. Respectability (to whom she happens to be engaged), or will she hook up with Noah, the romantic rascal she left so many years ago? We're not telling, but you have two guesses and the first one doesn't count. Decades later, after Allison develops Alzheimer's, her beau uses "the notebook" to read her the story of the great love she's plumb forgot.
Really good love story. Didn't care for the detailed sex scene in the middle of the book.
What a heart-warming story of love that endures all. It is so poetic and the type of love every woman dreams of. It is tender as this couples relationship matures with time and they share their life with children and each other. The passion is stilled by the deeper love and devotion that meshes these characters. The sadness is only comes as the reader witnesses the ravages of time, age and illness as it takes it tolls on the female character, but we are reminded love still lives in this couples heart as they face one challenge after another in order to remain together. It makes me cry thinking of this story. It is as beautiful as it poignant. Nicholas Sparks has a real gift for writing a story so real and believable you might know someone just like Noah and Allie. I fear the movie doesn't do the story justice. It is a must read for those who believe love still conquers all.
WHAT A LOVE STORY... YOU'LL CRY WHEN YOU READ THIS ONE. THEY MEANT TILL DEATH DO US PART...
This book was really good. I enjoyed the motion picture as well.
This book was pretty good. I didn't see the movie so I can't compare the two. I think a walk to remember was better.
Kay M. (This was one of those books that, after reading, you just feel good.
At thirty-one, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At twenty-nine, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thingking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the powerr to create a miracle....
Wonderful story, I read the sequil first, ane liked it a bit better, but this helped me understand the love story. I recommend this for all Nicholas Sparks fans. I'm on a mission to read all of his books.
This book is a very touching tale. I would recommend reading the book before watching the movie, which is also good.
I loved this book, it was better than the movie. I finished it while flying home from Hawaii. I always when leaving Hawaii but I cried double the tears. It's a lovely story.
This story is awesome. It's different from the movie in a few places, but clears up other things that happen. I read it in about 2 days because it really is a smooth read. Nicholas Sparks must be a Christian, but he does get into the sex scene a bit.
Throughly enjoyed this book. Plenty of passion, romance, love and memories.
My cover showes a pourch but number and author are the same. this book will leave you with a very good feeling. Love-enduance-patients
Bought book but seen movie before could read book so here it is. Love story thru the years, laugh and cry..
Tracy S. (*the cover picture on my book is different than the one with this listing*
GREAT story. Wonderful love story.
Christy H. (At thirty-one, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Caroline after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At twenty-nine, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a weatlthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of a love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a mirale...
I absolutely LOVED this book! One can only hope in a lifetime to find the special love with someone. Remarkable! Gives me hope!
Very good love story. Very short read I finished it in one day, couldnt put it down.
inspiring tale of love.
read this for tips on falling in love.
What a sweet and romantic book. I read it and couldn't help but crying. This book brings a different light to the phrase "happily ever after". Sweet and sad and wonderful all at the same time.
This book is as amazing as the movie! Don't miss the follow-up: The Wedding.
This was the book that started me reading all of Nicholas Sparks' novels. It is truly heartwarming. Written with the ease that only Sparks can write with. Highly recommended!
Nicholas Sparks, need I say more? It continues to amaze me that a man can write such amazing romance. Cried my eyes out!
I have read this several times and even had to rebuy it so my daughter could read it.
Lisa P. (I rather wish I'd read the book before seeing the movie, but I enjoyed both immensely.
This book is one full of innocent romance ... it's hard to put down!
The novel the movie was based on. A definite Must-Read for lovers of the Romance genre!
And, BONUS, if you watched the movie, the book still isn't ruined for you! As always, the book is MUCH better than the movie, difficult as that was in this case. :)
I DO have two smokers in my home, so please take that into consideration if you have smoke sensitivities.
One of the best that I have read in a long time. So wonderfully written, I might just read it again before someone requests it!
The movie is not as good as the book, however both made me cry
This is the absolutely the best book Nicholas Sparks has written. Rarely do writers tell a story of a lifelong love, as this does. It is beautifully written.
This story is so sweet and is how love should be! To death do us part! Sometimes a little bit sappy, but overall so wonderful!
Kathi M. (this copy has a different cover than pictured.
Paula M. (I saw the movie first and altho there are some differences between the two, I really enjoyed this book (paperback). At just 239 pages, it was a quick read. For probably the last 50 pages, I was either crying, smiling or both. I AM a romantic so this one really pulled at the heart-strings...even AFTER seeing the movie first.
A very believeable, touching account of two loving people!
Anyone who thinks this movie was great, must read the book to really understand what they were really seeing. Great Great Great
I admit to this being one of the best novels I have read in a long time. (In my opinion the movie does not do it justice.) Of course the plot is emotionally moving; yet, thee auther's writing is fantastic. for isntance; two lines: 1)"The romantics would call it a love story, the cynics would call it a tragedy. In my mind it's a little of both, and no matter how you choose to to view it in the end, it does not change the fact that it involves a great deal of my life and the path i've chosen to follow. I have no complaints .....", (3) 2) I walk on tiled floors, white in color and speckled wiht gray. Like my hair and the hair of most people here, though I'm the only only one in the hallway this morning ..... " (3)
this book is much better than the movie, your not human if you don't cry
Valerie S. (The book that was made into a movie, absolutely loved every second of it. Couldn't put it down. A time tested love that prevails!
I usually don't like romances but this one is one of those exceptions for me. Written with lyrical beauty, the story of two lovers who lose each other, then find each other again, is so sweet, it touched my heart. Since they're not always shown jumping in and out of bed, the love they have for each other really shines through. The ending is bittersweet - I almost cried - but is the perfect ending for this book and for these 2 characters. Definitely recommend! Plus it's a short read!
The basis for the recent movie. Haven't seen it, so I don't know how they compare. The book was touching and very romantic.
I didn't think this book was as good as everyone told me it was. I had a hard time getting into it. I did like the story in the end though.
At 31, Noah Calhoun, back in coastal North Carolina after World War II, is haunted by images of the girl he lost more than a decade earlier. At 29, socialite Allie Nelson is about to marry a wealthy lawyer, but she cannot stop thinking about the boy who long ago stole her heart. Thus begins the story of love so enduring and deep it can turn tragedy into triumph, and may even have the power to create a miracle...
If you thought the movie was good, you will LOOOOOOVE the book. I stayed up all night reading this.
Just crying just thinking about it!!! Really great read!!! Another Nicholas Sparks spectacular... movie made from this book. If you love Nicholas Sparks, you will LOVE this story!!!
Linda C. (Every so often a love story so captures our hearts that it becomes more than a story--it becomes an experience to remember forever. (back cover)
A wonderful book! I was crying towards the end. It is an unbelievable story of true love.
I finished reading this in public and embarrassed myself beyond any moment in my life by my uncontrollable sobbing. If you can, don't watch the movie before reading the book.
Jennifer L. (I was a little disappointed with this book. I felt it didn't give enough information on the characters.
Good tear-jerker. I thought it was better than the movie.
Good book, easy read. Haven't seen the movie yet, but i'm curious to see it now. A very passionate book.
I believe that this was one of the most romantic..and realistic stories I've ever read. The descriptions of the characters and places were well done. The author kept my attention as well as relaxed me.
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