Llew's Reviews

I picked up a copy of “My Friend Leonard” in eager hopes that it would be very reminiscent of the wonder that is Frey’s first novel, “A Million Little Pieces.” It was so endearing in its unorthdox style with its raw characters. Sure, it was fouler than the bathroom at the 40 watt but, overall, it was lovely.

I was a little disappointed in Frey’s follow-up novel which continues his story of after he leaves rehab and deepens his relationship with, Leonard, a mobster who has also kicked his drug habit while at the center. It just isn’t anywhere near as gripping, or as emotional. It is still told in the same manner, and I did have trouble putting it down. However, if I had never read his first work, I doubt I would have really felt any need to finish the second. Yet, when I think about it in conjuction with the first dynamic and enthralling tale, I definitely see it as worth the read, especially if you like detailed and lengthy epilogues.

Snow Flower and The Secret Fan made me physically ill, and I loved every incredible moment of it.

There were several topics covered in this novel which I wasn’t very aware of. The first was footbinding which I, naturally, had heard of but wasn’t well versed in the details. My stomach is too weak for it so I have no idea how those women’s feet handle it. Although, the maxim of the women during this time period in China was that pain tempers people into who they should become, and into beauty itself.

Nu Shu, the secret written language of the women in China, is another subject which I am woefully ignorant in. The story centered on the lives of two girls who seal into a contract to be lifelong best friends in rural China. It touches on the universal trials which trouble most close relationships between women, as the characters suffer through plagues, rebellions, children, and marriage. (Although I suppose the first two are the same as the last two, heh).

In the end, it was one of the most enchanting recent novels I have read in a very long time. It is not a happy story, and consequently, there is not a happy ending. But the substance of it by far exceeds any need for it.

You didn’t think I could go back to work without having read Harry Potter and the Mulatto, did you? I have standards!

Also, I realized that the only reason I cared about Professor Snape’s actions in this book is because Alan Rickman* plays him in the movies. But otherwise, guess how little I would care?

*Ok, so I was sadder about Sirius Black/Gary Oldham. Thanks to Carrie for the correction.

So, I’ve had four speeding tickets and the only thing I’ve learned is that the police don’t appreciate poetry which rhymes “ticket” with exactly where they can “stick it.”

This book wasn’t exactly helpful, but that might be because I didn’t need it very much. I was able to get things where I wanted them without having to go on trial. Whew.