Book Review: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Title: The Shadow of the Wind
Author: Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Translator: Lucia Graves
Published: New York: Penguin, 2004 (2001)
Rating: 3 of 5
Page Count: 487
Total Page Count: 171,893
Text Number: 502
Read Because: numerous recommendations, purchased used from Powel's
Review: When Daniel discovers an obscure novel, he begins a life-altering investigation into its mysterious, tragic author. An indulgent, intertwined, rambling gothic epic set in beautiful and war-scarred Barcelona, The Shadow of the Wind is strong in theory; in practice, I found it tiresome. The short chapters initially make for compelling reading, but the book is overwritten and runs overlong (for particular example: an immersion-breaking 80-page handwritten letter) and the twin plotlines make each other predictable, despite bold twists. The treatment of women is disappointing, in a banal way; there's a pervasive off-color humor that falls flat. I'm adore books about books, and in pieces that aspect works—the Cemetery of Forgotten Books is particularly intriguing—but it feels as often self-congratulatory. This came to me highly recommended, and I can see its potential; I'm certain others could enjoy it. But I can't in good conscious recommend it.

Book Review: Tris's Book by Tamora Pierce

Title: Tris's Book (Circle of Magic Book 2)
Author: Tamora Pierce
Published: New York: Scholastic, 2011 (1997)
Rating: 4 of 5
Page Count: 251
Total Page Count: 172,144
Text Number: 503
Read Because: continuing the series, ebook borrowed from the Multnomah County Library
Review: While repairing the temple, the four of Disciple Cottage stumble upon a new threat: opportunistic and unscrupulous pirates have their sight set on Winding Circle. For its grimmer, wider context and less simplistic interpersonal interactions, this feels like a more mature book. But it maintains the sympathetic voice and found-family wish fulfillment that made Sandry's Book so lovely. The bond between the friends grows particularly forceful here, but—despite their unique situation and ability—they are rightfully treated as children; a successful combination that provides escapism while speaking to the eternal frustrations of adolescence. In writing, this series is transparent (the plot especially so) and distinctly middle grade. But in heart, it's entirely satisfying. I look forward to the next book.