Book Information
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ISBN-13: 9781400032716 - ISBN-10: 1400032717 Publication Date: 5/18/2004 Pages: 240 |
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Book Reviews of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
363 Book Reviews submitted by our Members
sorted by voted most helpful
Janis K. (
26 member(s) found this review helpful.
"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" brings the reader right into the world and thought process of the main character. It reads less like a detective novel and more as a character analysis of autism. The pages fly by, not in an attempt to solve who-dunnit, but to find out what will be said or done next. An entire universe of logic unfolds that the adult mind has trouble understanding, and yet Mark Haddon has used his years of experience to bring forward a very memorable literary character. I found the solution to the murder mystery slightly out of flow with the rest of the novel but it did not lessen my overall enjoyment.
24 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book was written from the perspective of an autistic boy. It presented an interesting world view, but I was disappointed with the ending. I was really into it at first, but by the middle I started to feel like I was reading the book version of an After School Special.
17 member(s) found this review helpful.
Perhaps the most creative book I've ever read. Fascinating, first-person approach from an autistic child in a novel setting.
4.5 stars out of 5
17 member(s) found this review helpful.
I am familiar with several forms of Austism and found this book incredibly touching. Not at all what I expected, it was a good story told from an unique point of view. I picked it up after hearing a number of other people rave about it, and am very glad I did. This should become a classic.
12 member(s) found this review helpful.
Different than any type of book I've read before. Written from the view point of an autistic boy. Quick read and one I'd probably re-read again.
11 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book was just "weird" and not enjoyable to me. I dislike math greatly, and have no appreciation for the subject. Not to be a spoiler for a reviewer, this is the adventure of a child who is a type of savant. Others may find it brilliant, but it was not my cup of tea.
11 member(s) found this review helpful.
An interesting book. It made me think about how it must feel to have all that information in your head as an autistic person. But at the same time it struck a balance between that and humor.
9 member(s) found this review helpful.
I could not put this book down. I finished it the day I began reading it. It was such an excellent book, I can't recommend it enough!
8 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book was fascinating and a quick, easy read. Highly recommend to someone who wants to learn more about autism.
Margaretann B. (
8 member(s) found this review helpful.
Though it is sometimes difficult to "get through", this is an excellent book on introduce people to the difficulties people with autism may encounter.
Krista
7 member(s) found this review helpful.
Written in the narrative of an Autistic 15yr old's voice...this very well may have been the oddest, uniquely written book i've read. It was not at all what i expected. It was a VERY quick read, i read it in less than a day. I would have to say that the premise of the book was not really the main idea, here. It was an interesting story of the murder of a dog, and the mystery of the boy's mother...but all-in-all i think it was a very "curiously" written character study of the boy's perception of the world and how he survives in it. I am NOT very familiar with Autism, however, but this book lent me a sensitive insight to what the boy endures and achieves in everyday life and this is truly where the story lies. A VERY INTERESTING AND RECOMMENDED READ! YOU'LL NEVER READ A BOOK LIKE THIS, I BET!
Sherron O. (
6 member(s) found this review helpful.
I never even finished this book. And I tried repeatedly, and skipped around trying to read different parts, trying to find what is is about this book that makes people keep recommending it. I have an Asperger's child and he is NOTHING like this child. It's like Hadden took every symptom that he'd heard that perhaps an Asperger's child could have (most do not have ALL symptoms), made them as bad as they could be, then tried to pretend like a child that badly afflicted could write, at the moment it is happening, such knowing and insightful things about himself, but could only do it in the language and syntax of a 5 year old. And that in the end, there's a puppy and everyone suddenly loves and understands each other and everything is just rainbow great. geez. There was not one real or even likable character. I hope this book goes silently into the oblivion it deserves, and that it doesn't become the next stereotype of Autism that we have to fight.
And even tho I'd love for someone to take this trash off my hands, I have to be honest.
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
My teen and pre-teen boys and I listened to this book on cd. We were all moved by the frustrations the main character, an autistic boy, dealt with and lived with. The book gave me a new respect for individuals living with autism. Besides that, the book was funny and entertaining. A captivating story. The audio book reader was excellent.
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book is a must-read! Even if you are not a person struggling to understand autism, the insights it provides into the inner workings of a young autistic boy are amazing.
The story is of an agoraphobic autistic boy whose mother has abandoned him to be raised by his father, as she is incapable with dealing with his special needs. The boy is afraid to leave the house much of the time, preferring to venture out only at night when there is little chance of him having to interact with another person, which makes him very nervous. One night, he finds that someone has murdered his neighbor's poodle. An animal lover, he holds the dog in an attempt to comfort it as it is dying, and the neighbor discovers him and believes his has murdered her dog. The boy is more horrified by the idea of killing an animal than he is by his fear of strangers, and must overcome his agoraphobia to track down the real killer and clear his own name.
Jessica M. (
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
Such an interesting and unique book. The author captured the main character perfectly. As one critic wrote, "Moving . . . Think of The Sound and the Fury crossed with The Catcher in the Rye and one of Oliver sack's real life stories."
Susan H. (
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
A Whitbread Book of the Year, a New York Times Notable Book, a Today Show book club selection--all with good reason. This is wonderfully readable, touching book written from the point of view of an autistic boy. GREAT!
L. G. (
5 member(s) found this review helpful.
Blech! Undoubtedly one of THE worst books I have ever attempted to read. Boring, trite, contrived, one note only: skip this loser, save your credit and order anything else! I stopped 1/3 of the way through and simply couldn't finish it. It's the only book I have stopped reading in the last 7 or 8 years.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was a wonderful novel, although maybe not one for everybody. It gives the reader a look into the mind of an autistic savant 15 year old boy. Although the adults in his life have failings, the book is not preachy. It just tells a story. It is not a particularly large book, and I read it in 2 evenings.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
I thought this was wonderful! The story was very engagingly told, and drew me in so completely that I finished in a day! I found myself trying to see the world through Christopher's eyes--so much so that it jarred me when I ran into something that didn't seem to fit. For example, are baked beans not brown in the UK? And I know Milky Way bars are brown! Mark Haddon did an excellent job of giving the reader insight into a mind that would normally remain hidden to many. Christopher seemed so easy to understand and interesting, like someone I'd like to talk with. It's sad to think that he probably wouldn't like to talk with me, though....
Elizabeth R. (
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Deeply touching and engrossing book. Your heart will go out to the protagonist.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
I think the author did a good job of being inside the head of an autistic teen, however I didn't feel any particular empathy for the character. Since it was from his point of view the parents problems were only addressed as he saw it, and not from the pressure of having to deal with a child like him. I know this book is extremely popular right now, but it won't be in my top 10 for the year.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
A novel about autism and the workings of the mind. Christopher knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched and he hates the color yellow. This is a story of Christopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog. It is very funny and wise.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
I loved this book. It's a surprisingly quick read, yet emotionally complex and fascinating.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a great book that shows life from a mentally handicapped boy's point of view. Definitely an interesting read.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
I loved this book. Great, interesting job of creating the character's point of view.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Great book. I couldn't put it down. It's a story about an autistic boy who is trying to solve the murder of his neighbor's dog. He is incredibly gifted mathematically, and also very frustrating to his father. His autism requires him to perform many "rituals". Everything must be a certain way (e.g. furniture cannot be moved around, food cannot be yellow, etc.). Well written book. It feels as though this person is very real. Very surprising who in fact the murderer is!
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is an engaging book. The author does a great job of staying in character. I laughed throughout much of it,and read parts of it out loud to a friend who also thought it was very funny. I would recommend this book to anyone. The main character offers some surprising insights on human nature, given his autism. It is one of those books that can be read on different levels, as a simple story or as a commentary on life.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
I resisted reading this book because it seemed like one of those love it or hate it offerings. It didn't blow me away but was a satisfying and well written story. The point of view is unusual and I found myself appreciating a different perspective of everyday things. It is a quick read and, although many may not like it, I think everyone should give a chance.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was a treat to read! A charmingly gentle and compassionate fiction story with a very real to life voice, this "mystery" involves an autistic teenager on the outskirts of London who faces family drama and neighborhood problems while nearly (but not quite) exhausting his coping skills. You will root for this simple yet complicated young man as he struggles to understand his world. The character of his father is brilliantly explored, presenting a faceted and flawed man with a good heart.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
The book is disturbing..in a good way i suppose. I mean, at least in an enlightening way. The thought processes of this young boy are hard to follow. Not in the sense that it's not easy to understand..but in the sense that the logic is THERE but not what "normal" people experience. His perception is all skewed and trying to follow it can disturb the normal mind. I thought it was interesting in being allowed to experience this for a moment in time, though my mind had a hard time grasping how someone could function like this in every day life. It's definitely worth a read.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
I had heard about this book in the past, and finally picked it up at the library a few weeks ago. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the author portrays the main character and his point of view, and the "mystery" that he's out to solve.
(
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a different book written from the perspective of a teenage boy who has Autism. Christopher tells of his adventures in life and in trying to solve the mystery of how a neighbor's dog was murdered. Along the way the reader gets an interesting view at what it might be like to think like a person with Autism, while Christopher goes through some ups and downs with school, parents, neighbors, and being independent. And he solves the mystery!!
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was an extremely interesting book, written through the eyes of a child who has a form of autism. Amazing. The main character, 15 year old Christopher decides to write a book and as he is writing this book, he shares things going on in his mind & in his life. Christopher see's life in an only "logical" way. He is unable to deal with anything unplanned, life's surprises, or empathy for anybody else. It is an incredible insight into the mind of child who has these issues. It also, allows you to comprehend the difference in the way he thinks verses the way other "normal" people process information. Some pages I had to read over and over to comprehend how he came to his conclusions, but it was well worth it in educating me.
Christopher turns out to be incredibly intelligent, but has a hard time with emotions such as empathy for others. Although he cares for animals. Very insightful story. Especially recommended for those who are dealing with this type of thing. I've learned a lot.
I'd like to think that I am a better person than Christopher's mom, however, I could relate to her difficulties raising this boy as he becomes an adolescent. Raising teenagers is hard enough and they are typically difficult to relate to anyway. But Christopher is in a completely different world. His parents try very hard to protect him, understand him and to have patience, however, they are not perfect and you can feel their difficulties.
Also, now I'm wondering if my cat has this same type of autism as well. ”
Freya M. (
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
A great mystery told from the point of view of a unique protagonist. This was a tough read because Haddon really immerses you in the mind of an autistic child--with all the rules and quirks that entails. The story was engrossing on its own. Very appealing to the teen set, too!
A. J. C. (
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was funny, sad, as well as educational. Christopher, a brilliant autistic boy, investigates the 'curious incident of the dog in the night-time.' This is one of the most unusual books I have ever read, a definite must-read!
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very interesting perspective into how the brain of a boy with autism may operate. Great story.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a quick and enjoyable read. It paints a really interesting picture of how an autistic person deals with life.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
An addictive, quick and funny read. Enlightening too! Thumbs up!
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Intriguing and mysterious this book was fantastic. I loved every word. This is an unusual and clever story that is touching, funny, sad and surprising.
Nicole N. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
We read this book in my book club and I wasn't as impressed as some of the other members. The author does a pretty good job of writing as an autistic boy and has obviously spent quite a bit of time in the company of autistism. However some of the story needed a little more insight than the narrator was able to offer. I found the ending to bea little too quick and quaint.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
A quick read, but very enjoyable. As someone who works with children on the autism spectrum (although most that I see are not as high-functioning as the Christopher in this story), I thought in many ways I could understand and relate to the characterization in the book, but in other ways it seemed very enlightening to me. I commend Mark Haddon for doing an excellent job with this story, both as a story in itself & with the point of view he chose to utilize.
Hallie C. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Like others before have said, 'I am not a math person'. But, I understand math better visually so I enjoyed the main characters illustrations of the problems he worked through. Though he may have had a tough time making people understand him, I am sure he could make me understand mathematical reasoning!
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is the story of an autistic boy who is a genious in math, but cannot grasp many human emotions. The story begins with the mysterious death of a neighborhood dog which sends Christopher into an investigation. The whole novel is written from Christopher's point of view and begins as his attempt to write a murder mystery. Of course, there are some mysteries that you figure out right away, but the point is to see the world through Christopher's eyes, which is frustrating, but fascinating. Seeing his inability to touch or communicate love to his family is the most heart-wrenching part of the book.
Curious Incident is a very quick read, but there are still some of Christopher's tangents that you will find yourself skimming through. Those can be annoying, but the book is definitely worth it to get in the head of this boy. I think this story is a must-read for anyone who is interested in autism, or anyone who would like to read something from a unique narrator.
Candy B. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I finished reading this book last night and I'm still not sure if I liked it. I loved the format and I loved that it was written from the boy's point of view. I loved that it gave me a better understanding of how an autistic's person's mind works. The main story seemed to just "end" abruptly though, mystery over... then we are on to a totally different story. It felt very disjointed at times. But at the same time, I think that was the whole point, this is how he thinks and this is what he feels (and doesn't feel).
Overall, it was a good book and I'd recommend it, but I think this is a book I'll be thinking about in the coming months, still trying to sort it out in my own mind.
VERY well written and being the math geek that I am, I loved that aspect of it! I also found that the boy, I believe, sometimes has a better grasp of the world around him that we do... interesting.
ETA: I meant to say something about the chapter numbers. When I started it, I saw "2" and started freaking out wondering where "1" was... then it went to 3 and I figured I missed a chapter, so I went back and nothing (at this point I'm convinced my book is missing a chapter) until I see 5 (where is 4????)... I was very happy when they explained where the numbers went! *laughing* I'm so anal sometimes!
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a warm little book that acquaints the reader with life through the eyes of autism.
The title is a bit of a misnomer, though, as it - along with the first half of the book - sets up the story to be a mystery, which it is in the beginning. But then, boom, the mystery is suddenly and unexpectedly revealed and the book loses some steam and continues off in a not-as-interesting direction.
If it were longer I might not have continued. All in all, it's a short, different kind of book that's worth reading.
Kim H. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was an interesting book. Loved the writting style and the layout. An interesting point of view, written from the autistic child's view. Also spot lights some of the frustrations faced thier families. Well worth a read!
Amanda W. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
While I wouldn't call it my favorite book, I definitely found a lot of the book touching and humorous. The writing style is truly unique, and so I must recommend it to any book-lover as required reading.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Sweet story. Interesting look at a teenager with autism and the world from his point of view. A fast and easy read.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I generally can read anything but I just could not get into this book. It was a little too "different" for me.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I simply loved this book.
Just awesome, cool story, gives you an insight of an autistic person.
Angela S. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Creative and enjoyable. Interesting to read from the point of view of an autistic teenage boy. Nice change of pace. I loved all the random deviations from the main story, and the book held my attention all the way through. I was kind of disappointed with the ending, though. It was satisfactory, but I think it could have been stronger somehow.
Richard S. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I've never had any idea what it was like to be inside the mind of an autistic person until reading this book. This book gave me an understanding for the depth of a person beyond their label. Autism may be a disorder or handicap, but that doesn't make Christopher Francis Boone any less of a person, if anything it makes him a wonderful, hilarious, frustrating human puzzle that I want to understand.
Suzanne S. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very interesting and unique book. I loved that it was written through this boys eyes.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I found it easy to get into (always a plus), and heartwrenching. A great story, and, although I don't know how true to life its description of autism is, it's a fantastic character.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very good book, well written. Haddon explores the world of autism and does it well - he is very compassionate. But at the same time this is funny, sad, and interesting. The main character finds a neighbor's dog murdered and decides to investigate it's death.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I am not a writer, so I can't do justice by this book. There have been so many excellent reviews of this work, and I can wholeheartedly say I AGREE. The narrator of this story takes you into his world of autism, and changes your view of what you thought you knew. It's a "sweet" story, but sad and moving as well. You will be reminded how true it is that we are all just human, and we all say and do things that are incomprehensible at times.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
A fast read! The book let's you see how autistic children often view their surroundings.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
If you haven't read this yet, you really owe it to yourself to do so. I read it on a flight from west coast to Chicago. I love the character, Christopher, and the insights into autism and how his mind worked. Great, great book.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
The narrator and protagonist is a fifteen year old autistic boy who is high-functioning but still very "quirky." Perhaps the most amazing thing about the book is the fact that the author NEVER steps out of character when narrating. Prosaically, the book is perfection. The story itself is also quite gripping. The use of the work "and" to begin nearly every sentence and paragraph becomes slightly annoying towards the end of the book, but one feels it's probably a habit a teenage autistic boy might employ.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book was ok, although I didn't see the point to it... It definitely gives you the world view from a mentally challenged individual, but I didn't feel the story was that evolved. That being said, it was a quick read and I wouldn't say NOT to read it.
Andy R. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This fresh and original tale, told from the viewpoint of an autistic boy, will make you laugh, cry and think all at the same time. The boy, Christopher, can give you the answer to 251 x 864 in a second, but can't figure out how other people think. You'll fall in love with this young man and cheer him on as he tries to sort out his life with a mind that can't filter out excess information.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Quick read. Intersting, but not as good as all the hype to me. Some parts were even annoying.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
A fascinating book written from the perspective of a teenage autistic boy. This book definitely reminded me of my father, who is autistic. While clearly I did not know my father when he was at this age, some of the thought processes and behaviours of the main character amused me in the same way that some of my dad's behaviours and mannerisms can be amusing. It definitely helped me to understand the inner-thoughts and workings of someone who is autistic. Although the author himself is not autistic, I have heard from several autistic people that this book sheds a pretty accurate light on the life of someone with autism. It was a fast and amusing read! Highly recommended!
Deanna S. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very interestingly written book. The writing itself is more captivating than the plot. Written from the unusual perspective of a teenage autistic child. Very good! Recommended!
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very interesting, told from the view of an autistic (?) boy. Interesting how he describes very adult situations. It is a very good book.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I enjoyed this book, though in parts, Christopher was talking above my head concerning math equations and other ideas he'd worked out. Overall though, the story was a good read. The quirks of the lead character enhanced what otherwise would've been a boring plot-line. Would read again, but only recommend to certain readers.
Amanda A. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
It was okay. We listened to the audio book in the car- I fell asleep in the middle.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is an excellent book written in the voice of an autistic boy who is dealing with the separation of his parents. The Incident of the Dog is just a small part of the story. The intriguing part of this book is how well the author has painted the picture of this autistic boy. You could swear he was autistic himself. Turns out, the author has worked closely with autistic kids. He certainly has worked close enough to almost become one. HE does a wonderful job showing how the autistic person deals with all of the aspects of life. I loved this one.
Diana M. (
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Ingeniously written from the perspective of a young boy, the book chronicles his search for the truth about a mysterious death next door and his self-discovery as a son. I was captivated from beginning to end! The writing style is so unique! You will really enjoy this book.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
I just loved this book.
2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Our protagonist is Christopher: 15 years old, lives with his dad in England, and is autistic. Christopher has very specific rules and patterns. He does not like to be touched, he does not like too much noise, he does not like being around too many people, and he does not like the colors yellow or brown. As long as he has his routine and knows what to expect, he very happily gets through his day.
So what is The Curious Incident? As the book opens, he is heading toward his neighbor's lawn to pat her dog, Wellington. As he gets closer, he realizes the dog is dead. Further inspection reveals the dog has been killed, and Christopher decides to make a Project by writing a mystery book to solve the case of the murdered dog.
What seems like a good way for him to practice his spelling, grammar, and descriptions, turns into a fact finding mission that leads Christopher to truths that are too much for him to comprehend. By the end of the book, everything has changed, except for Chrisptopher.
What I loved about this book is that it felt amazingly genuine and authentic. The way the adults in Christopher's life act really affected me the most. I could feel how difficult it must be to not be able to hug your child because he doesn't like to be touched. Somehow seeing other people's emotions through Christopher's lens made them vibrant and clear, although to Christopher, he cannot tell what the person is thinking or feeling. Haddon is able to use Christopher to show the world through a very specific viewpoint, and for some reason, it made me feel like I completely knew and understood his father, even as Christopher himself felt alienated and afraid of him.
A brilliant book.
Jennifer K. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
A great quick read from a unique perspective. I like how the author gives the reader this distinctive look into a not so common writing style. I enjoyed the story telling and the processes of thoughts that go into the actions of the main character. A sweet story I would share with friends and family.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Not just a story for young people, this book helped me to take a different look at people with autism and other disorders of the brain. We are so quick to assume everyone has to be just like us and then...we are given new data to consider that shows us just how much we are all alike, regardless of the differences we display. The book helped me to gain a totally different perspective on behaviors we might not understand in people we often judge to be...abnormal.
Heidi R. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was a quick read and very good. I was unexpected and sad. If you are familiar with autism you will laugh with the writer.
Amanda D. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
If you're anticipating a mystery novel, this book will leave you high and dry well before the half-way mark. This is a very interesting book, to say the least, but it has more to do with psychology and looking at the world through new eyes than it does anything to do with a murder mystery. The main character is autistic, but a mathematical genius whose life takes a dramatic turn when a neighborhood dog turns up dead. There's a new digression at every turn, seemingly, and all though they're all on very interesting subjects--quirky, little-known scientific theories, or what a perfect world would be like for an autistic individual, for instance--it does get a little tedious when you're waiting for the story line to develope. All in all, I'd say just a good read; not a great read.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I have an autistic grandson and this book captured his actions so accurately.
Hopefully, I'll better understand his behavior.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
The main character reminded me of Dori from Finding Nemo, he's just so lost. Poor kid. Anyway whoever compared this book to The Catcher in the Rye is seriously psycho!
Karen D. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I really liked this book.What a great story.I highly recommend you read this story.
Patricia S. reviewed on 9/29/2009...
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
sad book about a sad dysfunctional family. The only interesting thing is it is written from an autistic boy's point of view. If it wasn't for that gimmick, I doubt that any publisher would find this story interesting enough or well written enough to publish. It has been called "a character study". All characters except the boy are one dimensional, and the boy's point of view is covered, not so much his "character". I didn't hate it, but i feel it is more of a waste of time, and i think there are better and more accurate ways if you want learn about autism.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
wonderful exploration of the life of an autistic boy, beautifully written, very creative
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Written from the perspective of an austic 15 year old boy, this book has been one of the most unique books I've read in a long time.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I began this book knowing little about it. I heard from numerous people that it was "funny" and "good", but had no idea what to expect. In all, it was quite an entertaining read. Yes, it is about a boy who tries to find the murderer of a dead dog. You find it out on the 1st page. But it is so much more than that. The main character has Asperger's Syndrome. As someone who works with special needs children, I was able to identify with Christopher. It's an insight to what life might be like for a person with this disorder. He features alot graphs and pitures in the book to explain himself better. I enjoyed this because it added a fun quality to the book. Pick it up if you would like a quick, light and entertaining read.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
excellant!! Lets you begin to know what its like to have an autism child.Just some of their thoughts and feelings,really GOOD READ! Great Book!
Amy H. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Ugh, I hated it. Didn't get very far before reposting this one. :-(
Karen T.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a great read. The voice of the protagonist, Christopher (an intelligent autistic teen in England), is imaginative and convincing. He really comes across as a young man with integrity and perseverance. Also, the story has a nice flow and doesn't take long to finish.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I read this book in two days. Easy to read and a wonderful story.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Unique premise and a good story. It could be a book tweens and teens except for brief flashes of offensive language which was not required by the story line. I know the author is known for his childrens books and I suppose he threw in the foul langauge to prove this was a book aimed at adults. I wish he wouldn't have as I think this is a story my grandchildren would enjoy.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Interesting insight into autism - quick read - good writing - interesting...
Shanan O. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Loved it. What an incredible writer, to be able to make us live and breathe inside his narrator.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I found this book very interesting. It is written from the perspective of an autistic child which made for a difficult read at the beginning. However, before long I was completely caught up in the story and couldn't stop reading. I would suggest reading it.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
My son has Asperger's Syndrome, which is a high-functionaing form of autism. This story illustrates perfectly how an autistic persons' behaviors and way of seeing the world are so rigid that it is difficult for us normal people to comprehend and be sensitive to them. I highly recommend this book for anyone who knows an autistic or even just "quirky" person.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I should have taken it as a red flag that a reviewer on the back of this book compared it to The Catcher in the Rye. I usually enjoy a story that has a definite beginning and end rather than just a character study like this turned out to be. There were some interesting points. Mostly, the accurate portrayal of a person with autism by the author but this just isn't my kind of book.
Bay S. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
great read..genius look into an autistic childs mind. so simple yet so complex. his thinking process was intimidating when it came to calculations.
Lori L. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
One of my favorite, quirky, must read books for it's originality.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book is my favorite of my reading year 2009. It is fresh, poignant, funny, heart-rending, and unique!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Easy, fast read. Not the best story, but is intriging.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
The autistic viewpoint was so interesting to me, and I so enjoyed this book! That's what reading is about, right, to see things from another perspective? Great read!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
The book definitely gave me some perspective on workings of the autistic mind, which at some points was hard for me to just be okay with reading. It was a short story, so I read it in its entirety, but it did lose my interest toward the end. I was more interested in the narration and thought process then the actual suspense of the mystery.
Wendy C. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I could not get through this book. While I was intrigued by the writing style, I just found it to be awful. I couldn't even make it to the 100 pages I normally give a book. There was nothing compelling about this book that would make me want to read it further than I did.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
EXCELLENT! I have a slightly autistic nephew, and this really helped me understand him on a new level. In addition, it was a fascinating story, and well written.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I didn't really like this book. It took a long time to get me interested and then I just wanted to be done with it. It was okay but not something I would suggest for others.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
liked it, didn't love it
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book was wonderful! A very good read- a must read for someone who deals with autism!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
If I could give this book a 10 I would. Absolutely wonderful.
Mollie G. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I read this book in less than a week, the more I read the more I felt the trapped confusion that the main character struggled with every day. This is the extraordinary story of a boy of 15 with autism. We follow along as he describes his struggles with his emotions and thoughts, his family and people in the community. In the process of writing a mystery novel about the murder of the neighbors dog he learns just how strong he is and he shows the world that no matter who you are you can accomplish anything. If there were one word that could describe Christopher it would be Determination.
Mark Haddon did an amazing job of writing this accurately and believably from the point of view of a boy with aspergers syndrome. The thought process and wording is very much like listening to a 6 year old tell as story. But the intelligence behind what he is saying is far more than anyone who had only just met Christopher could imagine.
Heart breaking in parts and inspirational in others I highly suggest this book to anyone who has wondered what someone with any kind of learning difference goes through each day. In the end I held so much admiration for Christopher that I simply wanted to hold my hand up so he could touch my fingers and thumb in a hug.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
What a great book. I couldn't put it down. I learned alot about the illness the boy has. It was so interesting how the boy dealt with his life and issues he had about his family.
Amber J. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Arguably one of the most interesting books I've ever read. It's written from the point of view of Christopher, a teenage boy who has autism (at least I assume it is autism, as the book never specifically states this). The neighbor's dog is killed and Christopher sets out to find who committed the murder. In the process, he unearths other secrets and goes on other adventures. The book is not really about the murdered dog but the life of a person with autism. The ending was not a conclusive ending so you might want to avoid this book if you like your stories all tied up with a pretty bow at the end of a book. :)
Kristie O. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I just did not get this book and did not finish it. I thought I would humor myself and read something a little different than what I am used to but this book was just way to different. I am on the otherhand very happy that many others enjoyed it...I just did not.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I really liked this book! It was a great story told from a very different perspective.
Marilyn C. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
As the wife of a man with Asperger's Syndrome, and the mother of a girl with it as well, I read this book with great interest. Having worked with autistic individuals, the author was able to weave his experience into a very believable character who is caught up in the middle of a terrible situation.
Anyone who is looking for some help understanding what goes on inside the minds of autistic individuals should read this book. Anyone who is looking for a very different sort of mystery should read this book. For me, it wasn't a fast read, parts of it could be tedious, but it reminded me of how it can be listening to my DD tell me about something that happened to her. Sometimes all the detail wears me out! But it is important to her.
The only reason I gave the book four stars instead of five is that it contains quite a bit of bad language. Normally, I would not persist reading a book with this amount of it.
This book is definitely worth the read!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Fantastic - read it in one day . . . don't let the title fool you - it was awesome.
C. L. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was quite an amusing book. Quick read and interesting look into the mind of an autistic savant. I was reminded of "Rainman" (if you're old enough to remember that movie!)
Sue K. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I read this pretty quick. It was interesting but I didn't think it was that great.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book is written from the view of an autistic young man; Interesting variety of literary techniques used.
Linda (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Having worked with mentally handicapped people for many years, I wasn't sure what to expect with this book but once I started reading I realized that for once I wasn't on the outside looking in but actually going along with the main character for the "ride". To some this book might seem boring, dumb or even pointless but if you can manage to read this book and suspend everything you know about the world and life, you will find that life is what it is. Very logical, very black and white with no emotion. That is the life of an autistic person and even though it's difficult, maybe if the rest of us removed all of the "extra baggage" we have, we might have a little more tolerance for others and life might not need to be so complicated.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
A fascinating book written as though in the first person of an autistic boy of 15, and his perceptions of the world around him and what happens in his family when his parents separate, (but he is told his mother is dead). Incredible! My husband, a child psychiatrist, wants to read it next.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Unique and interesting for anyone who wants to understand more about autism and 'difference'. Well written and a wonderful read.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book is written from the veiwpoint of a child with Asperger's disorder. It was a really easy, yet fascinating read.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a favorite book for me, it almost predicted a career change for me. i now work with kids having ASD,(autistic spectrum disorder) This book is quirky (i love that)and takes you into a kids' world that the author knows well. Absolutely great!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
As a special ed teacher, a great approach from the the child's side. Enjoyable!
Catherine L. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
First heard it on radio -- Lovely book. Sensitively written.
Dave M. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
What a wonderful and interesting story! I don't normally read fiction, but this book kept me engaged the entire time and wanting to get to the next chapter to find out what happens in Christopher's little "adventure".
Jodi C. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This has got to be the best book I ever read!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very interesting book about people with learning disabilities. They think differently! Helped me understand it a little bit better. The story was good, too!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" is a book told from the perspective of Christopher. Christopher is highly intelligent in math and science (as evidenced in the book), but he does not understand human emotion, and does not like to be touched.
When he finds his neighbor's dog has been killed, Christopher attempts to find the murderer. He tracks all of his detective work in a book. After his father finds the book, he takes it away from Christopher and tells him to stay out of people's business and stop asking about the dog. One day when Christopher finds his book, he finds much more than he bargained for as well.
"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" is a really good book. It was very interesting to read from the perspective of an autistic child. I would recommend you read "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" if for no other reason than to gain that kind of perspective. "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" is a story told with a unique contemporary voice, and it will definitely keep you interested.
"The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" is a rather fast read. So pick it up if you have a couple of spare hours and just want some unique humor and a good book.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Great read, that allows you to step inside the mind of an autistic boy and the aftermat he faces after finding a dog slain in a his neighbor's yard. Beautifully written.
Jason R. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
GREAT book! Read it a couple times actually. I definitely reccommend reading this!!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
The main character in this book is beautifully written. The story draws you in until you actually feel the same emotions as the character, while his quirky habits keep the tone light.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very well-written book, written from the approach that the writer/speaker is a special-needs teenager, and views the world from that position.
It reads well as a mystery story....and at the same time, would be REALLY interesting to a Special Ed. teacher, or any teacher with special-needs kids. Very interesting book from several angles!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Wonderfully intriuging mystery. Told from the perspective of a challenged child (I don't know my mental conditions, but I think it may represent an autistic perspective). I thought this was a clever twist on the manner in which a murder is both told and solved. I throughly enjoy it and would highly recommend it!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
As the parent of an adult child who has a high functioning autistic disorder I can only applaud Mark Haddon's work. This is a highly interesting and engaging way for people to learn about a very important issue in today's world.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
A fabulously written quick read. I would highly recommend this book.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Quirky book but I really enjoyed it
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I LOVED this book - by far the best book I read in 2007.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I loved this book. It's a fascinating look into the world of someone with aspergers syndrome and a great read.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This story of an autistic boy and following his thought processes is very well written. The book went fast for me, but of all the books I've read, this is one that I can honestly say I didn't like. The math got in the way for me, and at times the boy and his father were very frustrating. I didn't like the ending, either. Struck out on this one!
Brandy S. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very quick and quirky story of a man with some mental challenges trying to find out who killed his neighbor's dog.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Very gimmicky and highly overrated.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I could apprciate the difficulties writin from an autistic viewpoint, but other than that, this was a short book that seemed long and drawn out to me.
Jodi F. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
The cover of this is torn (not missing) thanks to my toddler, but is otherwise in fine condition.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
I thought this book was very morbid.
Sue E. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Christopher Boone knows all the countries in the world and their capitals. He knows every prime number up to 7,057. He loves animals, particularly his rat Toby. He hates the color yellow and he doesn't like to be touched or be in the room with alot of other people. Chris works math problem to relax...real hard , upper level math. He spends time figuring out who killed the neighbors dog and figures out other things in his life.
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is the story of a teenager with autism and his encounters with his family and community. It is told from his point of view with warmth, intelligence and sympathy. As a special educator I really enjoyed this book. A quick, easy read.
Penny W. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a most unusual book. I enjoyed it immensely. To be honest, I really couldn't put it down; a real page turner -- at some point, I thought, "why am I still reading this?" but I kept on reading anyway. The end was actually satisfying. In that the author has worked w/ autistic children before was quite evident. I felt the frustration of the autistic boy, his parents and anyone who came into contact with him--quite a good book after all.
Lorrie M. (
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Wow! This book was difficult to put down. Written from the perspective of an autistic fifteen-year-old boy, it was so touching. Christopher sets out to find who killed a neighbor's dog and finds out more about himself in the process. A definite must-read!
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This was a really refreshing perspective on a familiar story. The plot isn't what you would expect either, but the book is great because it isn't what you expect it to be. I don't expect to reread this one, but I'm glad I read it in the first place.
Carol J. (I really loved this book, I was one of the best books I have ever read very enlighting
CHERYL M. (I read this awhile ago so I don't remember all the details but I know that I liked it. I remember being a little disappointed because it got so many great reviews so I had high expectations going into it. Better to read it before you know anything about it!
This book was provided to me by another member and came slightly damaged. The spine and cover are a little beat up and the top of the pages look as if a child was chewing on them. It does not detract from its read-ability though.
Kathleen D. (Irritating. I needed Ritalin just to get through it.
Shanna V. (Our Book Club picked this as a monthly selection and it was a favorite all around. Sounds strange, but really enjoyable. Highly recommended.
A good read, this book lets you peek into the world of autism. Well written
This was a really interesting book. It was cool to be inside this unique narrator's head.
A very different book! I'm not sure why it's gotten as much hype as it has, but yet, I did enjoy reading something from such a different perspective!
This is an interesting and fun book. I am not very familiar with autism and this was a wonderful insight.
Wow! What a read! My book club had one of its livliest discussions about this moving and amazing book.
Such an interesting perspective of the world. I think I have a better understanding of autisim as a result of reading this novel.
I really enjoyed this book. It gives a special insight into the autistic mind while also being a great read.
Fantastic! Creates what seemed to me the realistic experience of an autistic child.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book on many levels: mystery, adventure, family dynamics, and a unique view into what it might be like to be autistic. I highly recommend it.
I loved this book. It gave me a perspective I've never been exposed to. I really felt like I understood the world of this young autistic boy.
Really liked this book a lot. Great topic. The author does a fabulous job with the narrator's voice (an autistic teen boy). Good book for high school students and anyone who would like to peer into the mind of a mentally disabled person.
This was a strange book but it held me captivated.
This is a clever story and very well-written book. An engaging, quick read.
A truly excellent novel with a unique narrator. I had to read it in one sitting. Highly recommended!
Stephanie H. (The odd mystery of a murdered dog, told from the point of a view of an autistic teenager.
Quirky little tome. An interesting read about an autistic boy and his abrupt discoveries of the small mysteries in life. Pacing slightly plods on and on, but I am fascinated with autism and like behaviours so I kept picking it back up. Recommended by Oliver Sacks (shocker!). Got great reviews.
A wonderfully written book about a brilliant but autistic boy and his family. Fast read that you won't soon forget.
Very good book! I enjoyed the author's attention to detail.
A New York Times Notable Book
Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He can not STAND to be touched, and he detests the color yellow.
This is the improbable story of Christopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes for one of the most captivating, unusual and widely hearalded novels in recent years.
I, my husband and my teen daughter all read and enjoyed this book. There is some language, but we all found the book to be interesting and an enjoyable read.
Great book, easy read. I learned alot about how an autistic person thinks. Cute story too.
Much talked about novel, fresh and original. Part psychology, mystery and initiation novel. A unique first person narration and writing style makes this book well worth the buzz. Want something new? Try it!
Not the typical book for my reading interest. My book club at church gave great reviews of the book.
This is such an excellent book! Very well written and superbly moving.
A murder mystery solved by an autistic boy. Very interesting and different read.
Wonderful! We don't often hear a story from the perspective of an autistic teenage boy. This was eye-opening and funny.
Used college book. Has Used stamped on end plus a couple of used sticker on side. Otherwise in great condition.
Provocative and unusual, this book kept me turning the pages. A refreshingly different protagonist and a fascinating story.
Kim (A profoundly different novel, told from the perspective of an autistic fifteen-year-old boy. Hard to put down once I'd started reading. A quick and easy read.
A wonderful insight into an autistic mind. This is one of my favorite reads.
This fantastic book is written in the voice of 15-year-old Christopher Boone, who not only is trying to solve the mystery of a dog killed with a garden fork in his neighborhood - he is autistic, gifted at maths and not fond of the colors yellow and brown. Author Haddon shows a remarkable connection with and compassion for the autistic experience, and you will love every minute you spend in Christopher's company.
A moving story of a boy's search for the truth, even though he cannot understand the concept of lying.
I can see why this book was on the New York Times "bestseller list."
Taleah G. (a curious book. I had a hard time getting into the story, but once I was there - it was very cute. Haddon has an interesting way of writing.
A strange, but infinitely rewarding book. About a teenage autistic boy, told first person. Haddon (the author) has captured just perfectly.
A very good book about a boy trying to find out who killed his neighbors dog. The only problem is Chris has no understanding of human emotions, he cannot stand to be touched and he detests the color yellow. A really fun and touching book.
Enjoyable read - investigation of a neighbors dog which makes it unusual and entertaining
I read this as part of a book club, and to be honest, I didn't really want to read it at first. I was really surprised at how drawn in I was to the lead character's POV, and how interesting the plot development was. This was a good, enjoyable read - no deep thought required, unless you want to.
This book is really unique. I love the short choppy style and the character - a much more interesting take on the "Rain Man" idea.
Fascinating novel about the thought processes of an autistic mind- highly recommended for those interestedin these insights.
Despite his overwhelming fear of interacting with people, Christopher, a mathematically-gifted, autistic fifteen-year-old boy, decides to investigate the murder of a neighbor's dog and uncovers secret information about his mother.
What a fantastic book! I've never read a book like this. It's written from the point of view of, I think, a young man with autism or perhaps Asperger's Syndrome. It never says. A wonderful read.
This was an interesting and cute (funny) book about an OCD dude. I liked it!
Kimberly I. (Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the color yellow.
This improbable story of Chistopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes one of the most captivating, unusual, and widely heralded novels in recent years.
Different and interesting mystery; gives insight into the autistic savant.
An odd book. I'm glad I read it. It's a quick read but bears some thinking about.
Very boring --I just couldn't get into it and didn't care what happened to that dog!!
it's good, story about a autistic boy, who tries to solve a murder.
Christopher is autistic. Christopher knows every prime number up to 7,057. Christopher loves animals but has no comprehension of normal human interactions. Christopher has a compelling mystery to solve. This is the story of how Christopher solves this mystery. It is told from Christopher's point of view, so we are allowed an incredible and intriguing glimpse of a completely different way to interact with the world. Very good!
An extremely interesting book that is "written" (not by the author, but also by the main character) by Christopher, an autistic boy. Christopher sets out to find who killed his neighbor's dog, and this quest ends up taking him on a journey that requires much bravery on his part. A highly recommended read!
This is a fascinating look at the way a person with autism views the world. It has humor, mystery, sadness and joy. Beautifully written and a delight to read.
Patty P. This book is a fascinating glimpse inside a perspective completely different from my own. Mark Haddon allows me to see from another set of eyes, much like viewing the world through the lens of another language.
Very interesting perspective on so many things! I was a little disappointed in the writer's style toward the end of the book, but regardless I found it to be a fun read and highly recommend it
Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the colro yellow. This improbable story of Christopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes for one of the most captivating,unusual, and widely heralded novesl in recent years.
delightful. Especially interesting to families of autistic and/or "special kids" and people who work with them.
Well written, interesting book. Written from the view of an autistic boy. Read it for a neighborhood book club. We found it to be more about family relationships. It provided a great discussion.
I found this book to be very slow moving and hard to follow and had to put it down several times. I did force myself to read it in it's entirety and was glad to finish it as it did have a good storyline.
This book is written differently than anything I've ever read. It's captivating. It's ingenious. It's both funny and sad, and very moving. I can't imagine anyone not loving it.
I read this for my book club and it was a great selection. Very interesting read and a great look into the mind of an autistic teenager.
I read this for my book club and it was a great selection. Very interesting read and a great look into the mind of an autistic teenager.
Wonderful book, very well written from the perspective of a child with autism. Touchingly funny.
Suzanne H. (My mom (she's 86!) and I just loved this book. Not like anything you've read before.
Wow! What a great book!! Having had a lot of experience with autistic individuals, I can say that this book is "spot on" in its point-of-view and descriptions. An amazing story!
Compelling from beginning to end. Get into the head of a character like no other. Find new thoughts in your head after reading.
Great Read. At first I thought it was a bit quirky, but once I got into it, I could really get into the characters. It was an enjoyable and original story. A book hard to forget.
Fascinating. A quick but absorbing read that illuminates the autistic mind. Highly recommended!
This book was pretty good-a fast read from an interesting point of view.
Jennie B. (This novel's narrator has autism, and the story offers a glimpse into his world. The story unfolds with humor and humanity. A quick and enjoyable read. Recommended.
Good insight into the autistic mind from a boy who has autism.
Very interesting read! Great insight into the mind of an autistic teenager.
Christopher is an unusual hero, an autistic child who is determined to find out who killed a neighborhood dog. As he does so, he takes the reader into the world of those who see but do not have the words to describe human emotions.
Written from the perspective of a young teenage boy with autism this is a fascinating book that explores his point of view and still manages to entertain.
Through the eyes of an autiststic boy will you read this story.Just who committed such a crime against the neighbors dog and why?You will be touched by this young boy.
very interesting insight to individuals with this kind of disability.
Very, very interesting book. Interesting insights into how a brain different than mine thinks.
Carol G. (I found this book to be an eye-opener. It is a story about an Autistic boy who is trying to survive in today's world. A very good book and an easy read.
Excellent character study, and gives some insight into a bright but troubled mind.
A strange little book about an austitic boy, the death of a dog, and his solving the mystery.
(As if) written by autistic 15 year old as a journal, as he tries to solve who killed his neighbor's dog. An interesting read, my 15 year old daughter loved it and read it 3 times.
Christine E. (Christopher francis boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the color yellow.
This improbable story of Christopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes for one of the most captivating, unusual and widely heralded novels in recent years.
the curious incident of the dog in the night-time is about an autistic kid who tries to solve a mystery about a dead dog and who killed it. then accidently stumbles on another mystery. very interesting
One of the most unusual and interesting books I think I have ever read. Written from the perspective of an autistic boy, he tries to unravel the mystery of his neighbor's dead dog.
A great book told from the perspective of an autistic boy.
A quick read, though I confess that I skipped over the math that the main character goes on about. While I keep seeing this book/author compared to J.D. Salinger, I preferred Catcher in the Rye.
Excellent story.... Engaging Plot... Endearing Character.... Fast Read.
wonderful accomplishment by the author Mark Haddon to write in the voice of a high-achieving autistic boy; you can tell he knows his subject. Clever, fascinating and revealing story
Moving book. It is a quick read and a facinating insight into the mind of an autistic teenage boy.
I loved this book. If you know anyone with Autism it's really true to life!
This book tells the story of a young boy with Asperger's disorder (similar to Autism). It is an extremely unique and interesting read.
One of the best books I have read in ages. When I started I could NOT put it down.
I loved this book, the main character is easy to fall in love with.
This was a really fascinating book. A bit exhausting at times, but I still couldn't put it down.
Interesting novel. Not the run of the mill story. I liked it quite a bit.
Fascinating "mystery" told from the point of view of a very intelligent autistic boy. His relationship with his parents is heartbreaking.
Ann Marie U. (It's a glimpse into the life of an autistic, fifteen year old boy. This book let's you see his thought process. Let's you see how he filters information and why things that others take for granted are overwhelming to him.
Written from the perspective of an amazingly gifted yet amazingly unique young man; this book gives the reader a whole new perspective on the world around them.
I really enjoyed this book. It's well written and pulls the reader into the narrator's worldview. Anyone who has a family member with autism should condier reading this book. I have an autistic child myself,and as I read Curious Incident I found myself smiling often when the main character did or said something that was completly true to my experiences with my own child.
This book offers a thought provoking glimpse of an intelligent, autistic 15 year old and the people in his life. It deals with Christopher's struggles with his condition, as well as his parent's exasperated love.
It was an eccentric book but very well written. It makes you look at autism in a completely different light. You can't help but fall in love with Christopher. There is no way you can understand how his brain works. I read this book in 1 day.
Lisa P. (Haddon has certainly cornered a most unique voice for this novel. I found the progression of the story fascinating.
My mind doesn't work this way, so I found this an awkward read...but it does illustrate how autistic people who think in this unique way can be so misunderstood! This is a creative book that helps open minds to others' differences.
Sherri H. (Fantastic book! Great look into the life an autistic savant.
Carla L. reviewed on 3/17/2006...Interesting...
This book was unlike anything else I've ever read. The narrator is a fascinating character that really draws you in. It was a really good read.
I've heard a lot of hype about this book, and I'm happy to report that it lived up to it! It was a really quick read and I loved every minute.
Christopher is quite a character. I read this book over 1 weekend. Very good, and very different from what I normally read.
Quick and easy read, but will still stir the mind and make you wonder and think. Really enjoyed this one.
A very quick, but interesting read. Tells the story of a family in crisis, from the perspective of an autistic son.
Amazing book! Told from the perspective of an autistic young boy who finds his dog dead. Follows Christopher's quest to discover whodunnit, and uses wacky narrative techniques such as line drawings and math problems to reveal more accurately how Christopher might perceive the world. A heartwarming, sober and funny book.
This book is amazing! Looking at the world from the point of view of an autistic teenager. It really makes you think.
Melissa B. (A very different novel told from an unusual point of view. I found the protaganist to be rather infuriating at times, but it's well-worth the read.
Very interesting book. Told in first person, the main character is a teenage boy who is autistic. Very interesting look into the workings of his mind.
Intense writing that pulls you in to this young man's head - enjoyable, fast read, I loved it.
This is a unique and strangely amusing story, told from the point of view of a young man with autism. It made me laugh and smile and I could not put it down! A fabulously fresh kind of mystery!
Beautiful book written very convincingly in the voice of an autistic teenager; touching, moving and a great read.
An excellent, yet easy to read book. It takes you into the mind of a teen w/ autism. Different...and riveting.
Bonnie S. (While I am found the main character's vast trivia knowledge quite interesting, I needed the story itself to move. I appreciated the author's insight to this character and all, but I was pretty darn bored and couldn't see wasting anymore time reading a book that wasn't even a little enthralling. If something can be a "little" enthralling.
I had heard a lot of hype about this book. Maybe I went into it with my expectations too high, but I didn't like it that much.
Elle S. (This was a great book that took you into the mind of boy who has
mental condition.
The story is fast and a great story to read.
Ellen
Liese S. (Xmas Wishlist Gift Game Book
Entertaining; interesting narrative voice.
a wonderful book - funny, tender, compelling.
Amazing the author got the narrator's voice so right!
Monika D. (Very thought provoking. I know someone with suspected Asperger's syndrome so I found the hero's POV particularly poignant.
An interestingly writtten book but with a slighly wavering story. Written from a childs perspective and tends to go from one story to another. A quick read though.
Melissa W. (Emotional and sensitive, a story told through the voice of a boy who suffers from an autistic-like disorder. Enjoyed it very much.
This book is very cute, it's a great insight to the mind of the autistic!
A good friend gave me this book, and I was hesitant to read it because it has gotten so much hype. I'm so glad she convinced me to give it a try. It's a sometimes funny, sometimes sad, always surprising novel that unexpectedly turns into an adventure story. I read the last chapter four times.
The hype over this book was well deserved. I loved reading from the point of view of the autistic boy.
I LOVED this book. It was a very intesting look into the mind of an autistic teenage boy. It was very different from anything I've ever read!
Although the tone of voice might become wearing to some, this is a deftly written journey through the heart of a broken family from the eyes of a high-function autistic boy. Well worth a look.
Loved this simple book that was surprising not that simple after all. The characters stay with you for a long time. We had one of our best book group discussion from this book.
A fun and moving entry into an autistic boy's life. Surprising and humorous.
Interesting perspective writing from the viewpoint of an autistic but needs a deeper story line. Quick read.
Pamela H. (amusing story of a young kid who struggles with autism and his quirky parents
Rebecca H. (Great book, imaginative and tender. Definitely worth reading.
Maura C. (Excellent story - I loved it! The author has created such a unique perspective in the narrator's story!
back cover - Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the color yellow. A Today Show Book Club selection. I thought it was interesting.
Interesting view of an autistic child, as it is written from the perspective of an autistic child.
This was an awesome book! Very different! I couldn't put it down.
This author really delves into what it is like to be autistic. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Great book—read it all in one sitting. Reminded me of Flowers for Algernon in that you really get to see how the narrator's mind works. It will be interesting to see how that transfers to film.
Interesting intrepretation of the austistic mind. First part of the book was very intriguing, the second half got somewhat more repetitious.
Amazing book about a savant, written from his point of view. A must read.
I have a friend that has a son with autism,this book is wonderful insight into the intricicate workings of a beautiful mind.
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