Helpful Score: 8
Don't let the size discourage you from reading this book. A lot of architectural description but done in a way everyone can appreciate.
Bob M. (Hissy-Fitz) -
Helpful Score: 8
My husband reads a lot of Follett (he's a mystery/thriller kind of guy) and I picked "Pillars" up from his pile of TBR stuff when my own ran dry. Wow!
This book is meticulously researched and is one of those can't-put-it-down, what-happens-next page-turners that you only come across once every few years.
The characters are earthy and so well developed, you never want the story to end. It is about the building of a cathedral, but overall about the village where the cathedral is located and the people who live there. The plot spans many years (25 or so) and takes you (the reader) from the saddest scenes you can imagine (a newborn baby lying on top of its dead mother's body) to moments of great triumph and happiness.
There is a sequal - World Without End - but I liked "Pillars" far better. Read them in order to get the most out of this epic saga.
This book is meticulously researched and is one of those can't-put-it-down, what-happens-next page-turners that you only come across once every few years.
The characters are earthy and so well developed, you never want the story to end. It is about the building of a cathedral, but overall about the village where the cathedral is located and the people who live there. The plot spans many years (25 or so) and takes you (the reader) from the saddest scenes you can imagine (a newborn baby lying on top of its dead mother's body) to moments of great triumph and happiness.
There is a sequal - World Without End - but I liked "Pillars" far better. Read them in order to get the most out of this epic saga.
Colleen S. (EphemeralIsis) -
Helpful Score: 4
Ugh, this book was overly long and complicated for what the story was about. I enjoyed the characters, and I very much enjoyed the architectural component since I have an art historical background, but it just took too much time to get into the characters and plot.
Cara (cheddy) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 29 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
The Pillars of the Earth describes a story that is larger than life. All the trappings of medieval twelfth century life in England are depicted. The story includes wild battle scenes, hangings, morality plays, serfdom, courtly and monastic life painted with Follett's broad brush. The political intrigue of the period and the fracture between the church and the state, king and archbishop, rule of law and the rule of God are seen here.
This book contains unforgettable characters like Aliena, the beautiful and penniless daughter of an Earl; Thomas Becket, the priest turned martyr; pious, but ambitious Philip the prior of Kingsbridge whose desire to build a cathedral for the "glory of God" is overwhelming; William Hamleigh, displaced earl, is truly evil. Although long, the book is remarkable to read, with fast paced action and gripping, believable dialogue. The story will leave you breathless and satisfied in its stunning conclusion.
This book contains unforgettable characters like Aliena, the beautiful and penniless daughter of an Earl; Thomas Becket, the priest turned martyr; pious, but ambitious Philip the prior of Kingsbridge whose desire to build a cathedral for the "glory of God" is overwhelming; William Hamleigh, displaced earl, is truly evil. Although long, the book is remarkable to read, with fast paced action and gripping, believable dialogue. The story will leave you breathless and satisfied in its stunning conclusion.
Electra M. (BobbieMasterson) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
A genuinely good book. I generally don't get into books of this type, but found myself unable to put this one down. There are several main characters and the focus on each one changes throughout the story keeping me interested and wanting to find out more about each one as they go through the struggles of living in ancient times. Although religion is touched on heavily it is not the focus of this book and therefore does not bog down the stories at all.
I highly recommend this one.
I highly recommend this one.
Helpful Score: 2
Looking at this book, I thought it would take me forever to read. But, from beginning to end, it kept me wanting to turn each page. I really, really enjoyed this book. It has become one of my favorites. I like that the details needed to describe places, people, and things weren't so exaggeratingly detailed, just enough to get the point. I was sad to have finished it.
Helpful Score: 1
The first 100 pages were very good: emotional, connecting you to the characters.
The next 200 pages...too wordy & drawn out. I wish they wouldn't give me a step by step narrative of a walk down the road in the 1100s unless the information is truly relevent to the story.
Still reading it now and enjoying it, nonetheless.
The next 200 pages...too wordy & drawn out. I wish they wouldn't give me a step by step narrative of a walk down the road in the 1100s unless the information is truly relevent to the story.
Still reading it now and enjoying it, nonetheless.
Vin S. (RC-1134) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was a good read, but it was a bit dry in a few parts and it took all of my will to drag myself compleatly through it. I do think it was worth the read once it is finished. (and a note for parents: it did have some mature content in it so be warned)
Martha S. (msteph5444) - , reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 32 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is a long read - but well worth it. Takes a little while to figure out who's who and how they all inter-connect. There are a lot of architectural descriptions - very detailed and informative. I loved the story and was looking forward to the sequel but of the two, this is my favorite.
Betty W. (Bet) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 95 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really loved this book, altho, very long, it was one of the best books I
have ever had the pleasure to read....
have ever had the pleasure to read....
Olga J. (bolgai) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 109 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is a story of building of a cathedral in 12th century England. It spans a generation and tells of all the people whose lives were irrevocably altered by this project.
Although I'm only now getting around to posting a review for it this was the first book I finished this year. It gripped me from the very first line and I think it will always stay with me in a way. It's not only because of the masterful storytelling or the compelling plot but also because of the characters who make it impossible to be indifferent. I cannot tell you how many times I frowned at William's despicable actions and cheered for Prior Philip. The latter is firmly on my list of favorite characters, by the way.
Do not be intimidated by this book being one of Oprah's Book Club titles (I know those are often not something we'd pick ourselves) or its size. It is an enjoyable and a very accessible read, beautifully plotted and beautifully written. I highly recommend it and will be purchasing it in hardcover to keep.
Read my other reviews at bibliophilescorner.blogspot.com
Although I'm only now getting around to posting a review for it this was the first book I finished this year. It gripped me from the very first line and I think it will always stay with me in a way. It's not only because of the masterful storytelling or the compelling plot but also because of the characters who make it impossible to be indifferent. I cannot tell you how many times I frowned at William's despicable actions and cheered for Prior Philip. The latter is firmly on my list of favorite characters, by the way.
Do not be intimidated by this book being one of Oprah's Book Club titles (I know those are often not something we'd pick ourselves) or its size. It is an enjoyable and a very accessible read, beautifully plotted and beautifully written. I highly recommend it and will be purchasing it in hardcover to keep.
Read my other reviews at bibliophilescorner.blogspot.com
Helpful Score: 1
LOVED this book. It's a lengthy book, but I didn't even notice. Couldn't put it down! Told the story through various character's eyes, allowing you to really learn and enjoy the characters.
Karissa E. (ophelia99) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 2527 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I have had this book on my to read list for a while. I finally got it on audiobook. It was a well done story done in a very epic fantasy-like style. However my primary thought while listening to it was "wow this is really long".
The story starts out with Tom the Builder and his family. Tom would like to build cathedrals but he is currently working on a house for William (a noble) and his bride to be Ariana. When Ariana refuses to marry William, William stops building on the house and Tom is out of a job. Tom and his family wander around looking for work. We also read some from Philips viewpoint. Philip is a monk who runs a small priory in an isolated area. Philip dreams of becoming the Prior of Kingsbridge and of building a cathedral there.
The book switches between many viewpoints and goes over many decades of time. We mainly hear from Toms stepson Jack, Prior Philip, Ariana, and William. It's a well done epic historical fiction, it's done very much in the style of traditional epic fantasy. You follow four or five main perspectives throughout the book. All of the characters tie back into the story of a cathedral that is being built in the English town of Kingsbridge.
The story mainly follows the struggle to build the cathedral, as well as the struggle of the people involved to make a living and survive. A lot of the stories are very compelling. I especially found Arianas struggle to survive and build up a life for herself engaging. Ariana is one of those heroines who goes through more suffering than any character should, but you just cant keep her down. Time after time she climbs out of deep despair and builds her self back up to success. I really enjoyed her portions of the story a lot.
This is definitely an adult's only book. There are some very graphic rape scenes, graphic sex scenes, and graphic scenes of death, torture, and violence. Follett doesnt shy away from talking about any of the unpleasantness of war and of this time in history.
I enjoy architecture, so I did enjoy a lot of the talk about how the cathedral was built and how changes in building technology altered the structure and plans throughout time. For me these were the most interesting parts of the book.
There is a lot of surrounding drama, some of which was really interesting...and some of which could have been cut out of the story to shorten it. Most of the things that happen do have some final impact on whether or not the cathedral will get built. However, sometimes there are very long interludes where we dont hear about the cathedral and are off following other characters. This was a very good read, but I couldn't help feeling at multiple points that the story could have been trimmed a bit and made a bit more tight and a bit less wandering.
Things were nicely wrapped up at the end. I liked where most of the characters stories were left and didnt feel like there were any major issues that werent resolved.
I think the popularity of this book might be because it is basically an epic fantasy type of read that has gone mainstream, this allows the general populace to peak into a genre that they may not have normally read. Because it is different to them they are enraptured by the story While I enjoyed it, I just didnt think it was any more spectacular than other epic stories I have read.
Overall I enjoyed the story but it was a bit too long for what it was. I would definitely recommend reading if you enjoy the history of architecture and if you enjoy historical fictions done in a very epic fantasy type of style. Follett does an excellent job of weaving history into an engaging story that is hard to put down. The whole story has a very epic fantasy-like style and feel to it. I probably wont be reading the companion book to this one, the story was just too long and wandering for me.
The story starts out with Tom the Builder and his family. Tom would like to build cathedrals but he is currently working on a house for William (a noble) and his bride to be Ariana. When Ariana refuses to marry William, William stops building on the house and Tom is out of a job. Tom and his family wander around looking for work. We also read some from Philips viewpoint. Philip is a monk who runs a small priory in an isolated area. Philip dreams of becoming the Prior of Kingsbridge and of building a cathedral there.
The book switches between many viewpoints and goes over many decades of time. We mainly hear from Toms stepson Jack, Prior Philip, Ariana, and William. It's a well done epic historical fiction, it's done very much in the style of traditional epic fantasy. You follow four or five main perspectives throughout the book. All of the characters tie back into the story of a cathedral that is being built in the English town of Kingsbridge.
The story mainly follows the struggle to build the cathedral, as well as the struggle of the people involved to make a living and survive. A lot of the stories are very compelling. I especially found Arianas struggle to survive and build up a life for herself engaging. Ariana is one of those heroines who goes through more suffering than any character should, but you just cant keep her down. Time after time she climbs out of deep despair and builds her self back up to success. I really enjoyed her portions of the story a lot.
This is definitely an adult's only book. There are some very graphic rape scenes, graphic sex scenes, and graphic scenes of death, torture, and violence. Follett doesnt shy away from talking about any of the unpleasantness of war and of this time in history.
I enjoy architecture, so I did enjoy a lot of the talk about how the cathedral was built and how changes in building technology altered the structure and plans throughout time. For me these were the most interesting parts of the book.
There is a lot of surrounding drama, some of which was really interesting...and some of which could have been cut out of the story to shorten it. Most of the things that happen do have some final impact on whether or not the cathedral will get built. However, sometimes there are very long interludes where we dont hear about the cathedral and are off following other characters. This was a very good read, but I couldn't help feeling at multiple points that the story could have been trimmed a bit and made a bit more tight and a bit less wandering.
Things were nicely wrapped up at the end. I liked where most of the characters stories were left and didnt feel like there were any major issues that werent resolved.
I think the popularity of this book might be because it is basically an epic fantasy type of read that has gone mainstream, this allows the general populace to peak into a genre that they may not have normally read. Because it is different to them they are enraptured by the story While I enjoyed it, I just didnt think it was any more spectacular than other epic stories I have read.
Overall I enjoyed the story but it was a bit too long for what it was. I would definitely recommend reading if you enjoy the history of architecture and if you enjoy historical fictions done in a very epic fantasy type of style. Follett does an excellent job of weaving history into an engaging story that is hard to put down. The whole story has a very epic fantasy-like style and feel to it. I probably wont be reading the companion book to this one, the story was just too long and wandering for me.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of my favorite works of historical fiction. As an art major and someone who is interested in the evolution of religion, as well as any and all historical fiction, I cannot put this book down. I've read it several times, and this is the third copy I've owned because I keep loaning it out, but no one wants to return it.
Teena M. (shephardsdaughter) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely loved this book! I didn't want it to end. I went on to read "World Without End" which is a sort of sequel to this book and enjoyed it, but Pillars was by far my favorite. History, Politics, Religion, Deceit, Love, Faith you name it this book has it!
Gabrielle C. reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Amazing how the author keeps the thread of the story together throughout this compelling story. The references to middle age history are especially interesting and the architectural information is priceless. Great author, great story!
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book. Amazing character development, I still find myself thinking about the characters. It was worth reading close to 1000 pages!
Deanna A. (Sierra-Blue) - , reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 32 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely loved this book! I was loaned this book from a friend at work. After finishing it, several months later I found it in a used bookstore for $8.00, and bought it for myself. So now I have my own copy. I do not normally read any books twice, but this one I will reread at some point in the future. I highly recommend this book especially to those that like reading books from around about the end of the middle ages, give or take a few years.
Sandra K. M. (smearkle) - reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book. At first, I was skeptical about the length of the book (1000 + pages), but I was captivated from page one. The characters were as true as life, believable, and interesting. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, and lengthy novels, but, if you are put off by the length of this book, don't be. The story goes fast, and stays interesting throughout the book.
Lindsay C. (lindsaybacole) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
A wonderful, can't put it down book!
Stacy W. (slippergirl) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't think this would be a page turner, but all I can say is wow. I stayed up late reading quite a few nights. This was a wonderfully written novel. I cared about the characters, the good ones and the bad ones. The author didn't get bogged down in so much explanation that I lost interest. A definite must read!
Helpful Score: 1
This is an exciting and interesting historical novel, rich with incident and melodramatic in characterization and effect. My only reservation about it was caused by the quality of the writing itself. Follett uses the language as a blunt instrument, which is fitting for the writing of thrillers. But here a more poetic and delicate touch is often needed, and the failure of his prose produces bathos too often in passages where he is reaching for the sublime. After all, the topic is cathedral building, a subject on which his engineering interests are more evident than his religious sensibilities. Perhaps the clue to this may lie in his atheism, which is declared in the preface. It is something of a paradox to find an atheist writing a religious book.
Helpful Score: 1
Great story. Coundn't put it down!!
best book I've read!
I must this book years before Oprah discovered it. I was cautious about it seeing Follett in a new genre. but it is very much worth the trouble.
YES....!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sean C. (number47) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
I was very intimidated to pick up this book. It's not my genre, and the length is formidable. However, after just the first chapter I was hooked. I had a hard time separating myself from the drama. Some other reviewers have remarked about how depressing the book and and about all the bad things that happen. I'll admit that this book brought me to tears, made me angry at the characters, and made me laugh out loud and cheer on people on a daily basis. Looking back on it, it really seems like for every triumph there is a tragedy, and for every tragedy there is a triumph. I will recommend this book to every person I know that is literate. Already in my top 10... and it may be one of the best works of historical fiction I've ever read. On to the sequel.
This is one of my favorite books that I have ever read. The story constantly evolves, leaving no dull moments. World Without End is also great, and I suggest reading that as a companion/follow-up to this book.
Alayna R. (arichlen) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
I LOVE this book and recommend it to everyone that asks for a great book to read. I loved every detail to the story and while the size may be daunting for some, it is one of my favorite things about it because I never wanted it to end! It is in my top 3 books of all time and definitely one to read and recommend to everyone you know that loves a great novel!
Catherine S. (Catherinelady) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
This book is one of the best I have read. I could not put it down. If your a lover of history, action and adventure. This book is for you.
Alice J. (ASJ) -
I am truly in the minority, but I did not like this book very much. Truthfully I thought it was a bit boring, and way too long. I felt you could easily cut out 300 pages or so and not miss much. Most of the characters I did not not care about. It was well written though. The language was lovely it flowed nicely. I like Anya Seton or Jean Plaidy better for historical fiction.
Brandy M. (Brandywine) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
EXCELLENT READ! I hated for it to end! It is very long but well worth the time.
A long book, but worth it. Medieval span of 70 years,Love, greed, hunger for power of the common people, knights, bishops, monks. A good read!
Not as good as its sequel but still very good. Big Ken Follett fan.
In my top 3 favorite books ever. Brilliant if you love historical fiction...maybe even if you don't.
Michelle M. reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
Absolutely one of the best Ken Follett books. Follow it up with World Without End. Wonderful.
This was one of the best books I've read in a long time. The story is such that you don't want it to end. Follett does a great job in taking you back to early England. You can actually smell the people.
A great read.
A great read.
I forced myself to read the entire book. It just did not live up to my expectations. The portions describing the architecture of the buildings were way over my head. There were too many repetitions during the character development. Instead the author could have gone more in depth. The royalty relationships and effects were confusing in comparison to what I researched on the internet.
Karen B. (Jitterbug3) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 198 more book reviews
I only picked up this book because our book club elected it as our summer reading book (due to its length)but boy, was it worth it. There are times when you do think certain characters have 'lived' too long but otherwise it is a very compelling story. I got invested in the characters and what happened to each of them...it did take a good 75-100 pages to really see the interconnectedness of all of them but once it hits you, then you really get going. The architectural information is fascinating too, especially if you love architecture or just looking at historical buildings! I highly recommend this book!
A very good read. I find myself always drawn back to the book to get it finished.
Gilda T. (marie1947) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Although very long, this book was so interesting! The characters kept your attention and the author made you want to know how the action progressed. Well worth the time!
awesome
This story was a little slow going but I did really like it. I didn't get hooked until the final quarter of the book. I will be finishing the series eventually. Everyone should power through this book if you don't really care for it in the beginning because it gets better towards the end!
Jennifer S. (cinderella317) -
Wonderful book! I didn't want it too end - even though in the beginning I was a bit intimidated with how long it is. Couldn't put it down.
Loved it! Kept you going the whole time. You could never foresee what was coming up. Would highly recommend it.
Karen S. (MKSbooklady) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 945 more book reviews
What a story!!! An absolutely engrossing story -characters abound in this book. Mr. Follett has always enthralled me with his story telling, and this is no different. Don't be scared away by the number of pages-every one is perfect.
Angie M. (angiem) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
Long read, but excellent!!!!
Excellent read.
Cameron-Ashley H. (BigGreenChair) reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 453 more book reviews
Top drawer! Read the sequel too!!! If you like historical fiction you will get beautifully lost in this one.
Jennifer B. (Ezri) - , reviewed The Pillars of the Earth (Pillars of the Earth, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
I'd read more by this author.
