Welcome to another book club session! 🤩 Let me know your thoughts on these books if you have read them, or if you have any questions. If you have spoilers in your comment for any of the books, please put a warning at the start of your comment to let everyone know! I'm so excited to hear your thoughts! 💜
This was such a fun video and I so needed that right now! I really enjoyed hearing your answers to all the questions.😊 In regards to The Wager, firstly I have to say how amazing I think you are because I can’t imagine reading a non fiction in my non native language and I know military/navy content can be so boring. But I was conflicted because I have a Navy background so I sided with the mutineers for a little while and then I went back to the original captain because I know how even with a crappy captain, splitting up the group almost always hurts the whole group. I was so torn 😅 Your thoughts on Piranesi were very similar to my own. I had many of the same questions you did!
Oh I'm so glad! That made the whole thing worth it. Thank you for saying that. And thank you again! I've actually had to read a lot of nonfiction in English, at university pretty much all of my course literature was in English! But I will take the compliment either way haha! I completely understand! I was torn as well, because even though I'm on the mutineers' side in theory, or as a reader, I know I would probably stay pretty close to the authority figure for as long as possible if I was there. I can speak up if I don't agree with the boss, but I also agree with you that breaking up the hierarchy can get you into anarchy pretty quickly! And that's not very constructive in that situation! 😂 So, morally with the mutineers, practically with the captain, I guess! 😄 I loved Piranesi so much, it was such a whirlwind in my brain and I was just along for the ride! I also thought the Other was some kind of medical staff at one point, but then that didn't fit either after a while... What did you think about the ending? 😬
reading Piranesi was definitely an experience I want to relive for the first time again. Also I did have some predictions on what was going on while reading but they were pretty far off haha I also read a different theory on the ending that I enjoyed
Yes, same! I keep pestering my boyfriend to read it so that I can experience it again through him haha! Oooh please share with the group! 😄 I had all kinds of theories, and I've read some discussion posts and things as well. Some are way to intelligent and informed for my liking haha, I like that there's a bit of mystery and fantasy involved, so it's a fine balance between diving deeper into that vs ruining it with facts and logic, I feel like 😂
@@ellenmadebookclub i made my boyfriend read it too and he loved it haha I don't take any of the theories too seriously but I love the one about the house being his mind/mental illness and the detective is actually his therapist trying to bring him back but he still ends up feeling disconnected from himself
spoilers for As Long As The Lemon Trees Grow The thing I remember most after 1.5 years when I read this, is the plot twist with the sister in law. I really didn’t see that one coming, but it made so much sense and really added to the story. It was heartbreaking. I also loved how fear was portrayed, this kind of impersonation, the haunting and arguing, that felt so real and accurate on a psychological level. I get your points on the „we allow them“-topic. But I didn’t dislike it in the story, one as part of their very young minds in the middle of their horrific world. And I think it also wants to make a point in like: yes, we are not the ones doing all the bad, but if everyone would stop ignoring or only watching and thinking „I can’t do anything about it anyway, it’s not my fault“, but start speaking up, putting pressure on the governments for example, then „the bad guys“ would maybe be stopped sooner. I think that’s the message I got and viewing it like this it didn’t feel wrong. It felt uncomfortable, yes, but I think that was the point 😊
@@nanana_naaaa more spoilers I agree, Layla and Khawf were the strongest parts for me as well. And it made a lot of sense how fear impacted Salama’s thought process and decision making, and how hard it is to know when to listen to the fear and when to do the scary thing. I also didn’t think the “allowing” was bad, necessarily. I think it’s a very common way of thinking and I’m not expecting the characters in the book to be thinking about the UN Security Council or international law! I think I’m just so fed up with the good guys having to stand up to bad guys all the time, instead of just enjoying their lives. It’s not a criticism about the book really, just a general frustration about life and humanity. I know that the only thing needed for evil to win is for good people to do nothing. It just makes me so mad that people have the audacity to be the bad guys, and so then good people have to spend their lives fighting it. As if there isn’t enough to deal with. I also think it’s one thing to ask for help, and of course they should let the world know what’s happening. But I also think it’s another thing to expect other people to risk their lives for a conflict that has “nothing” to do with them. Don’t get me wrong, I’m an idealist at heart, turned cynical from experience. The whole thing just bugs me 😂 I want to stay idealist, but wherever I turn I find evidence that I can’t be. Or that it’s not realistic. And that breaks my heart. And like I said, I would love for there to be a contract to enforce, but that’s very complicated to bring about, when the world is how it is. Power hungry idiots, in short…
@@ellenmadebookclub I agree, the biggest frustration really is there being bad people. Like, why? That hate and crime and war exists makes me feel so helpless and angry. So yes, I totally get the frustration there! It just shouldn’t be like this! 🥺
@@nanana_naaaa Exactly! I think taking action is a great way to feel better about it, if you have the capacity for it. I personally don't at the moment, but I have in the past and might in the future. Right now I'm more about pushing the blame toward the bad guys where it belongs, and *allowing* myself to be happy for a bit. I think I'm owed that as well, just like Salama is :)
*spoilers for Piranesi* I also totally thought the faun on the cover was Piranesi and that Laurence Arne-Sayles was a real person, haha and was very confused about that at first 😂😂 Loved hearing your thoughts on this and had a lot of the same questions too, especially about The Other. Totally was not expecting any of the cult stuff or manipulation but always find that subject matter so fascinating and sad at the same time. It was especially sad to me that Piranesi just didn’t want to be alone and was so caring to every living (and nonliving) creature but was taken advantage of and not treated with the same kindness and ultimately felt like no one would ever truly understand what he went through. Definitely reminded me of the Narnia books in general and also the tv show Severance, if you know anything about that, haha. I’m terrified to read her other book because of the length and also because it will be hard to measure up to this one, but I’d be open to checking it out! I’m telling everyone I know in real life to read this book because I desperately want to talk to more people about it haha
@@LibrariesandLattes more spoilers 😂 Haha that’s so funny, I’m so glad it wasn’t just me! 😂 When he started describing his appearance I was like watttt where is your fur??? Yes the cult vibes was very unexpected! I was so convinced it was a fantasy/myth of some kind. I also thought that the Other was some psychological staff person for a while, it felt like Piranesi had some aid come to his house to check on him, which I guess he did, but not in a very caring capacity. But I thought he was playing along with the delusions like you would with someone who is mentally ill. Or even dementia. Yes, so sad, he’s so incredibly sweet and kind! Ignorance was bliss for him I think, it was like the whole concept of evil was just wiped from his mind. Otherwise the torture would have been even worse, if he had been aware of what was done to him. And I agree cults as a topic is fascinating; sad and horrible but so interesting. And I think it’s a good thing to find it interesting, because it helps you see the signs of manipulative behavior, because that’s all over. Whether it’s happening to you or someone you know. What did you think about the ending? Oh and I hadn’t heard of Severance, but from the brief description I read it sounds amazing! Is it on apple? Seems like I’m missing a lot that’s on there 😂 If it’s not on Netflix or hbo I might as well live under a rock! And yes, the other book is intimidating but I’m not expecting it to be as good. I just want to have a little more of her mind and see what it’s like!
I am still finishing up The Wager. Even the printed version is a bit challenging for the same reasons you mentioned. But about 70-100 pages in, it gets REALLY interesting. The book has maps which helps with visualizing the route and understanding where they are in the world. It's a relatively short book - 257 pages. It looks "bigger" because there are a lot of notes and appendices. I do like it, so far.
Good to know, I figured it was just me! Yeah, I was wondering about pictures and things in the physical book, because I saw that presentation that David Grann did, and there were pictures on there, so I figured they must have included some of them in the book? Maps would have been helpful, I have some idea but no way of knowing if it's correct 😄 The audiobook was about 8h, but I thought it felt longer, but maybe that was just because I slowed it down some :) I liked it too!
@ellenmadebookclub yes, there are beautiful color pictures from paintings of the ship and some of the officers and some photos of Wager Island as well as the maps showing the route and location of each group of castaways.
Not watching the full video to avoid spoilers, BUT I literally just found out from another BookTuber that Piranesi is only 246 pages long! I somehow had it in my mind that it was like 500-600 pages and I was so intimidated!! 🤣 I wanted to read it before but it felt scary to me because of the length and it not being one of my typical genres... but now it feels much more doable. I'll have to bump it up my TBR.
@@BonnieNicoleWrites Oh it’s not intimidating at all! It’s the perfect length and I thought it was a pretty quick read! Which is saying something, since I’m a pretty slow reader compared to some. I think you’ll find it interesting, I certainly did! Please read it and then come back here asap 😊
@@ellenmadebookclub That's so good to know!! I have 3 books out from the library right now but after I finish one or two I'll jump in line for Piranesi!! I'm excited now!
Really interesting to hear your views. I haven't watched the Lemon Trees part yet because I'm still on the fence about that book. I'd probably side with the mutineers in The Wager, too, but at some point you have to wonder when people who have already mutinied will turn on the new person in charge. - Spoilers for Piranesi - I'm glad you enjoyed Piranesi so much - definitely a book that makes you think and question. I had many of the same questions :) The feeling of having to make sense of the wolrd is what really lured me in. I enjoyed the themes of loneliness and isolation and how they affect perception of reality and memory. The author said she was very isolated due to illness at the time, so maybe I was just reading her situation into the story. Maybe the House was Jung's collective unconscious? I loved how Piranesi saw the beauty in the little things and lived in peace with his environment rather than exploiting it (definitely a real world lesson worth learning). I also liked the idea that something can be beautiful just because it is - there doesn't need to be a deeper explanation. As well as the Narnia references, I thought there were some Theseus and the Minotaur allusions - Piranesi is trapped in a labyrinthine house, a monster (The Other) wants to 'feed off' his discoveries and he is saved by a woman who leads him out. I agree with you that Susanna Clarke did a great job in making the story so vague and open to interpretation. A reader can see different things in it and interpret differently depending on their life experience, so everybody gets something out of it. It also makes it a fun book to discuss. There's a theory where Raphael (the archangel of healing) is his therapist and trying to help him out of a state he has entered due to trauma. The House is a creation in his mind, and Piranesi and the other characters represent different parts of his psyche as he comes to terms with things. The Narnia references might also support the idea - he's building a place from things he's read in real life. The real life Piranesi painted a series of 'Imaginary Prisons' so this also fits. I like the theory, but I'm not sure it really works. Anyway, lovely to hear your thoughts and answers to the others' questions. I've just finished A Man Called Ove, so looking forward to next month's discussion.
Thank you for this very thoughtful response! I agree with you on the mutineers, they are probably not the most trustworthy! I might be willing to bet though, they "just" need to get to land / home, and then they are out of your life! But yeah, that's quite a commitment too :) I thought Lemon Trees was worth a read. If you haven't watched my June Wrapup yet, I talk about it there without the spoilers. spoilers for piranesi Yes, the feeling of making sense of the world! Exactly that. And I guess that was the big religion parallel for me, or existential philosophy really, but they tend to go hand in hand. I'm not very familiar with Jung, but that sounds as plausible as anything ^^ I liked that too, the appreciation of things just because. And especially since there are so many things really worth appreciating. I feel gratitude for the running water in my tap pretty often. Simple, but essential and quite amazing. Or seeing colors. I don't know the Minotaur story very well (I'll willingly remain ignorant until I find a retelling ^^) but I'm sure your're right. People have so many links and theories and like you said, they all have some merit, which is part of the wonder of this book. I think it's enjoyable without all of the references, but seeing some of them makes you feel at least a bit smart, amid all the confusion! :D I thought that the Other was the therapist for a while, or some kind of medical staff, checking in on his patient and sort of playing along with his delusions. But that didn't really work out ^^ Raphael is a better choice for that, but she wasn't there as much, so I'm not sure. Thank you so much for participating, this is so much fun! I haven't gotten to Ove yet, but I'll get there soon! I'm looking forward to that as well! 😄
Not at all! I think it was a very relevant question that served anyone who wanted to know! I'm just happy for the participation! 😄 Thank you! I'm in the middle of watching your reading vlog btw 😊
I don't know what it is with Piranesi, but I've been so reluctant to pick it up. There is such mystery around it and everyone seems to love it, so on the one hand, I'm curious, but on the other, there's just something holding me back and I'm not exactly sure why. Maybe because it's been so hyped that I feel like I can only be disappointed at this point?
I'm sure it's not for everyone, but the only way to find out is to try it! It's a pretty easy read and quite short, so you're not taking any huge risks. I really enjoyed it and I think you might too :) Worst that can happen is that you're disappointed!
@@ellenmadebookclub Ahah that's a positive way to look at it. I feel that the worst that can happen is that I waste my time with it instead of reading something else I'm more excited to read and somehow, that feels very bad (even though I waste my time in many other ways). But, you know, FOMO...
I'm not going to lie, the Wager sounds interesting but it might be too dense for me 😅Or even too dark... like wow. I understand that there needs to be rules but wow... I will probably watch the movie when it gets made. Sorry, I know Piranesi is your favorite book of the year so far, and I should skip through it but I refuse, I love spoilers 😂 I love the passage of religion that you quoted -- 100% agree. Though how interesting how it was similar to the 3 books even though technically all three books are kind of what I would assume it to be a little different haha. These books that you picked all seem to contain a lot of heavier topics, and I really liked how you handled the discussion of these books! Honestly, I'm pretty surprised As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is YA -- a lot of the topics you brought up seem like it would be so hard to do well for YA?
I was SO close to putting MIMI across the whole frame when I mentioned the spoilers, because I knew you wouldn't be able to skip it! 😂 Anyway, I did what I could, you do you! 😄 Yes The Wager was kind of dark, but it felt more like an adventure listening to it, but it depends what you're used to or interested in of course. I think the movie will be really good, so definitely watch that! Haha yeah Piranesi wasn't really similar to any of those books, and they are all very different, but it had certain similarities I guess, that reminded me of those books. But yeah, a weird blend for sure! But then the book is pretty weird too, but in a great way. Thank you, I appreciate that! There were a lot of heavy topics, and I always have a hard time not going there... and I almost cut some things out, but then that wouldn't be true to me. So I appreciate you saying that you think I handled it well, I tried my best! 😅 I think As long as the lemon trees grow would/should have some age limit, like it's definitely not for kids, but young adult seems appropriate to me. It's not too gory to handle, it's just reality, meaning not much worse than you would see on the news. The actual reality would of course be a lot worse. And then there's the romance that makes it feel a little brighter. It was really good, but yeah, I probably need to infuse my reading with some happier topics for a while! Thank you for being here, it means a lot! 💜
@@ellenmadebookclub HAHA. It's OK, if it makes you feel better, I'm sick and I probably didn't retain much information 🫠 But it is on my TBR because if you enjoyed it so much... I just gotta know 😍 I feel like it'd be such a good pick for out of my comfort zone so I'll definitely keep it in mind!! I think we're probably our worst critics. I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts about it, and how you handled it was solid. I'm glad you didn't! Yeah, I would probably not recommend it to my nieces and such since they're middle-grade. But YA/high schoolers would probably be a good fit for that book! So I guess the author's rating for it isn't bad. Would probably give a lot of the kids something to think about growing up; I know that my teachers definitely gave me similar topics to read 🥰
@@itsmimiduong Oh no! How would it make me feel better to know you’re sick? 😂 I’m glad you’re not retaining spoilers, but I hope you’ll feel better soon! I think you’d enjoy Piranesi, it’s a fun and cozy time with just a a touch of darkness! Absolutely it puts things into perspective. The topic isn’t new to me, but it’s a different thing reading it as fiction and getting the human feelings in that situation, compared to statistics or theories on a more academic level, so I think it would be a good read for younger people for that reason. It makes it easier to relate to I think, especially when there’s a romance in there!
weird how 2 years after reading Piranesi I don’t remember the ending that much… 😂 spoilers… I remember having like a million theories while reading, but I have a hard time actually remembering what it was in the end 😅 so when you said you felt sorry for Piranesi, for a moment I was like: but why? he’s just the content and curious guy exploring his huge house... 😂 always interesting what sticks in mind ☺️
@@nanana_naaaa more spoilers Haha yes, I can imagine that sticking though! He is so kind and caring and for the most part is very optimistic and a bit naive. Maybe read it again and see what you would think now? Or just keep the kindness in your heart and let it be like that 😊 I think ignorance was bliss for him, so as long as he was unaware he was pretty content!
@@ellenmadebookclub 😃 I kind of remember now, so gonna leave it for now at mostly thinking about naive joyful Piranesi going on his little adventures. This was also the part I enjoyed the most about the book overall, so I‘m fine with that 🙃
Welcome to another book club session! 🤩 Let me know your thoughts on these books if you have read them, or if you have any questions. If you have spoilers in your comment for any of the books, please put a warning at the start of your comment to let everyone know! I'm so excited to hear your thoughts! 💜
Okay, that does it. I have to read Piranesi asap
Please do! It's a pretty quick read too, and I think you'll enjoy it 😊
This was such a fun video and I so needed that right now! I really enjoyed hearing your answers to all the questions.😊
In regards to The Wager, firstly I have to say how amazing I think you are because I can’t imagine reading a non fiction in my non native language and I know military/navy content can be so boring. But I was conflicted because I have a Navy background so I sided with the mutineers for a little while and then I went back to the original captain because I know how even with a crappy captain, splitting up the group almost always hurts the whole group. I was so torn 😅
Your thoughts on Piranesi were very similar to my own. I had many of the same questions you did!
Oh I'm so glad! That made the whole thing worth it. Thank you for saying that.
And thank you again! I've actually had to read a lot of nonfiction in English, at university pretty much all of my course literature was in English! But I will take the compliment either way haha!
I completely understand! I was torn as well, because even though I'm on the mutineers' side in theory, or as a reader, I know I would probably stay pretty close to the authority figure for as long as possible if I was there. I can speak up if I don't agree with the boss, but I also agree with you that breaking up the hierarchy can get you into anarchy pretty quickly! And that's not very constructive in that situation! 😂 So, morally with the mutineers, practically with the captain, I guess! 😄
I loved Piranesi so much, it was such a whirlwind in my brain and I was just along for the ride! I also thought the Other was some kind of medical staff at one point, but then that didn't fit either after a while... What did you think about the ending? 😬
reading Piranesi was definitely an experience I want to relive for the first time again. Also I did have some predictions on what was going on while reading but they were pretty far off haha I also read a different theory on the ending that I enjoyed
Yes, same! I keep pestering my boyfriend to read it so that I can experience it again through him haha!
Oooh please share with the group! 😄 I had all kinds of theories, and I've read some discussion posts and things as well. Some are way to intelligent and informed for my liking haha, I like that there's a bit of mystery and fantasy involved, so it's a fine balance between diving deeper into that vs ruining it with facts and logic, I feel like 😂
@@ellenmadebookclub i made my boyfriend read it too and he loved it haha I don't take any of the theories too seriously but I love the one about the house being his mind/mental illness and the detective is actually his therapist trying to bring him back but he still ends up feeling disconnected from himself
spoilers for As Long As The Lemon Trees Grow
The thing I remember most after 1.5 years when I read this, is the plot twist with the sister in law. I really didn’t see that one coming, but it made so much sense and really added to the story. It was heartbreaking. I also loved how fear was portrayed, this kind of impersonation, the haunting and arguing, that felt so real and accurate on a psychological level.
I get your points on the „we allow them“-topic. But I didn’t dislike it in the story, one as part of their very young minds in the middle of their horrific world. And I think it also wants to make a point in like: yes, we are not the ones doing all the bad, but if everyone would stop ignoring or only watching and thinking „I can’t do anything about it anyway, it’s not my fault“, but start speaking up, putting pressure on the governments for example, then „the bad guys“ would maybe be stopped sooner. I think that’s the message I got and viewing it like this it didn’t feel wrong. It felt uncomfortable, yes, but I think that was the point 😊
@@nanana_naaaa more spoilers
I agree, Layla and Khawf were the strongest parts for me as well. And it made a lot of sense how fear impacted Salama’s thought process and decision making, and how hard it is to know when to listen to the fear and when to do the scary thing.
I also didn’t think the “allowing” was bad, necessarily. I think it’s a very common way of thinking and I’m not expecting the characters in the book to be thinking about the UN Security Council or international law! I think I’m just so fed up with the good guys having to stand up to bad guys all the time, instead of just enjoying their lives. It’s not a criticism about the book really, just a general frustration about life and humanity. I know that the only thing needed for evil to win is for good people to do nothing. It just makes me so mad that people have the audacity to be the bad guys, and so then good people have to spend their lives fighting it. As if there isn’t enough to deal with.
I also think it’s one thing to ask for help, and of course they should let the world know what’s happening. But I also think it’s another thing to expect other people to risk their lives for a conflict that has “nothing” to do with them. Don’t get me wrong, I’m an idealist at heart, turned cynical from experience. The whole thing just bugs me 😂 I want to stay idealist, but wherever I turn I find evidence that I can’t be. Or that it’s not realistic. And that breaks my heart. And like I said, I would love for there to be a contract to enforce, but that’s very complicated to bring about, when the world is how it is. Power hungry idiots, in short…
@@ellenmadebookclub I agree, the biggest frustration really is there being bad people. Like, why? That hate and crime and war exists makes me feel so helpless and angry. So yes, I totally get the frustration there! It just shouldn’t be like this! 🥺
@@nanana_naaaa Exactly! I think taking action is a great way to feel better about it, if you have the capacity for it. I personally don't at the moment, but I have in the past and might in the future. Right now I'm more about pushing the blame toward the bad guys where it belongs, and *allowing* myself to be happy for a bit. I think I'm owed that as well, just like Salama is :)
*spoilers for Piranesi*
I also totally thought the faun on the cover was Piranesi and that Laurence Arne-Sayles was a real person, haha and was very confused about that at first 😂😂 Loved hearing your thoughts on this and had a lot of the same questions too, especially about The Other. Totally was not expecting any of the cult stuff or manipulation but always find that subject matter so fascinating and sad at the same time. It was especially sad to me that Piranesi just didn’t want to be alone and was so caring to every living (and nonliving) creature but was taken advantage of and not treated with the same kindness and ultimately felt like no one would ever truly understand what he went through. Definitely reminded me of the Narnia books in general and also the tv show Severance, if you know anything about that, haha. I’m terrified to read her other book because of the length and also because it will be hard to measure up to this one, but I’d be open to checking it out! I’m telling everyone I know in real life to read this book because I desperately want to talk to more people about it haha
@@LibrariesandLattes more spoilers 😂
Haha that’s so funny, I’m so glad it wasn’t just me! 😂 When he started describing his appearance I was like watttt where is your fur???
Yes the cult vibes was very unexpected! I was so convinced it was a fantasy/myth of some kind. I also thought that the Other was some psychological staff person for a while, it felt like Piranesi had some aid come to his house to check on him, which I guess he did, but not in a very caring capacity. But I thought he was playing along with the delusions like you would with someone who is mentally ill. Or even dementia.
Yes, so sad, he’s so incredibly sweet and kind! Ignorance was bliss for him I think, it was like the whole concept of evil was just wiped from his mind. Otherwise the torture would have been even worse, if he had been aware of what was done to him. And I agree cults as a topic is fascinating; sad and horrible but so interesting. And I think it’s a good thing to find it interesting, because it helps you see the signs of manipulative behavior, because that’s all over. Whether it’s happening to you or someone you know.
What did you think about the ending?
Oh and I hadn’t heard of Severance, but from the brief description I read it sounds amazing! Is it on apple? Seems like I’m missing a lot that’s on there 😂 If it’s not on Netflix or hbo I might as well live under a rock!
And yes, the other book is intimidating but I’m not expecting it to be as good. I just want to have a little more of her mind and see what it’s like!
I am still finishing up The Wager. Even the printed version is a bit challenging for the same reasons you mentioned. But about 70-100 pages in, it gets REALLY interesting. The book has maps which helps with visualizing the route and understanding where they are in the world. It's a relatively short book - 257 pages. It looks "bigger" because there are a lot of notes and appendices. I do like it, so far.
Good to know, I figured it was just me! Yeah, I was wondering about pictures and things in the physical book, because I saw that presentation that David Grann did, and there were pictures on there, so I figured they must have included some of them in the book? Maps would have been helpful, I have some idea but no way of knowing if it's correct 😄 The audiobook was about 8h, but I thought it felt longer, but maybe that was just because I slowed it down some :) I liked it too!
@ellenmadebookclub yes, there are beautiful color pictures from paintings of the ship and some of the officers and some photos of Wager Island as well as the maps showing the route and location of each group of castaways.
@@BeyondBooks-wt5il That's definitely a con of the audiobook! I might flip through it at the library at some point, see how far off I was ^^
@@ellenmadebookclub or how far off THEY were! LOL!
@@BeyondBooks-wt5il Hahaha that’s so true! 😂😂
Not watching the full video to avoid spoilers, BUT I literally just found out from another BookTuber that Piranesi is only 246 pages long! I somehow had it in my mind that it was like 500-600 pages and I was so intimidated!! 🤣 I wanted to read it before but it felt scary to me because of the length and it not being one of my typical genres... but now it feels much more doable. I'll have to bump it up my TBR.
@@BonnieNicoleWrites Oh it’s not intimidating at all! It’s the perfect length and I thought it was a pretty quick read! Which is saying something, since I’m a pretty slow reader compared to some. I think you’ll find it interesting, I certainly did! Please read it and then come back here asap 😊
@@ellenmadebookclub That's so good to know!! I have 3 books out from the library right now but after I finish one or two I'll jump in line for Piranesi!! I'm excited now!
@@BonnieNicoleWrites Good choice! :D
Really interesting to hear your views. I haven't watched the Lemon Trees part yet because I'm still on the fence about that book. I'd probably side with the mutineers in The Wager, too, but at some point you have to wonder when people who have already mutinied will turn on the new person in charge.
- Spoilers for Piranesi -
I'm glad you enjoyed Piranesi so much - definitely a book that makes you think and question. I had many of the same questions :) The feeling of having to make sense of the wolrd is what really lured me in.
I enjoyed the themes of loneliness and isolation and how they affect perception of reality and memory. The author said she was very isolated due to illness at the time, so maybe I was just reading her situation into the story. Maybe the House was Jung's collective unconscious? I loved how Piranesi saw the beauty in the little things and lived in peace with his environment rather than exploiting it (definitely a real world lesson worth learning). I also liked the idea that something can be beautiful just because it is - there doesn't need to be a deeper explanation.
As well as the Narnia references, I thought there were some Theseus and the Minotaur allusions - Piranesi is trapped in a labyrinthine house, a monster (The Other) wants to 'feed off' his discoveries and he is saved by a woman who leads him out.
I agree with you that Susanna Clarke did a great job in making the story so vague and open to interpretation. A reader can see different things in it and interpret differently depending on their life experience, so everybody gets something out of it. It also makes it a fun book to discuss.
There's a theory where Raphael (the archangel of healing) is his therapist and trying to help him out of a state he has entered due to trauma. The House is a creation in his mind, and Piranesi and the other characters represent different parts of his psyche as he comes to terms with things. The Narnia references might also support the idea - he's building a place from things he's read in real life. The real life Piranesi painted a series of 'Imaginary Prisons' so this also fits. I like the theory, but I'm not sure it really works.
Anyway, lovely to hear your thoughts and answers to the others' questions. I've just finished A Man Called Ove, so looking forward to next month's discussion.
Thank you for this very thoughtful response!
I agree with you on the mutineers, they are probably not the most trustworthy! I might be willing to bet though, they "just" need to get to land / home, and then they are out of your life! But yeah, that's quite a commitment too :)
I thought Lemon Trees was worth a read. If you haven't watched my June Wrapup yet, I talk about it there without the spoilers.
spoilers for piranesi
Yes, the feeling of making sense of the world! Exactly that. And I guess that was the big religion parallel for me, or existential philosophy really, but they tend to go hand in hand.
I'm not very familiar with Jung, but that sounds as plausible as anything ^^ I liked that too, the appreciation of things just because. And especially since there are so many things really worth appreciating. I feel gratitude for the running water in my tap pretty often. Simple, but essential and quite amazing. Or seeing colors.
I don't know the Minotaur story very well (I'll willingly remain ignorant until I find a retelling ^^) but I'm sure your're right. People have so many links and theories and like you said, they all have some merit, which is part of the wonder of this book. I think it's enjoyable without all of the references, but seeing some of them makes you feel at least a bit smart, amid all the confusion! :D
I thought that the Other was the therapist for a while, or some kind of medical staff, checking in on his patient and sort of playing along with his delusions. But that didn't really work out ^^ Raphael is a better choice for that, but she wasn't there as much, so I'm not sure.
Thank you so much for participating, this is so much fun! I haven't gotten to Ove yet, but I'll get there soon! I'm looking forward to that as well! 😄
Sorry I asked the most boring and self-serving question 😂Great reviews!!
Not at all! I think it was a very relevant question that served anyone who wanted to know! I'm just happy for the participation! 😄 Thank you!
I'm in the middle of watching your reading vlog btw 😊
I don't know what it is with Piranesi, but I've been so reluctant to pick it up. There is such mystery around it and everyone seems to love it, so on the one hand, I'm curious, but on the other, there's just something holding me back and I'm not exactly sure why. Maybe because it's been so hyped that I feel like I can only be disappointed at this point?
I'm sure it's not for everyone, but the only way to find out is to try it! It's a pretty easy read and quite short, so you're not taking any huge risks. I really enjoyed it and I think you might too :) Worst that can happen is that you're disappointed!
@@ellenmadebookclub Ahah that's a positive way to look at it. I feel that the worst that can happen is that I waste my time with it instead of reading something else I'm more excited to read and somehow, that feels very bad (even though I waste my time in many other ways). But, you know, FOMO...
@@Curious-Cat Haha yeah I know what you mean! Read it if you feel like it! 😊 Excitement over pressure any day!
I'm not going to lie, the Wager sounds interesting but it might be too dense for me 😅Or even too dark... like wow. I understand that there needs to be rules but wow... I will probably watch the movie when it gets made. Sorry, I know Piranesi is your favorite book of the year so far, and I should skip through it but I refuse, I love spoilers 😂 I love the passage of religion that you quoted -- 100% agree. Though how interesting how it was similar to the 3 books even though technically all three books are kind of what I would assume it to be a little different haha. These books that you picked all seem to contain a lot of heavier topics, and I really liked how you handled the discussion of these books! Honestly, I'm pretty surprised As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is YA -- a lot of the topics you brought up seem like it would be so hard to do well for YA?
I was SO close to putting MIMI across the whole frame when I mentioned the spoilers, because I knew you wouldn't be able to skip it! 😂 Anyway, I did what I could, you do you! 😄
Yes The Wager was kind of dark, but it felt more like an adventure listening to it, but it depends what you're used to or interested in of course. I think the movie will be really good, so definitely watch that!
Haha yeah Piranesi wasn't really similar to any of those books, and they are all very different, but it had certain similarities I guess, that reminded me of those books. But yeah, a weird blend for sure! But then the book is pretty weird too, but in a great way.
Thank you, I appreciate that! There were a lot of heavy topics, and I always have a hard time not going there... and I almost cut some things out, but then that wouldn't be true to me. So I appreciate you saying that you think I handled it well, I tried my best! 😅
I think As long as the lemon trees grow would/should have some age limit, like it's definitely not for kids, but young adult seems appropriate to me. It's not too gory to handle, it's just reality, meaning not much worse than you would see on the news. The actual reality would of course be a lot worse. And then there's the romance that makes it feel a little brighter. It was really good, but yeah, I probably need to infuse my reading with some happier topics for a while!
Thank you for being here, it means a lot! 💜
@@ellenmadebookclub HAHA. It's OK, if it makes you feel better, I'm sick and I probably didn't retain much information 🫠 But it is on my TBR because if you enjoyed it so much... I just gotta know 😍 I feel like it'd be such a good pick for out of my comfort zone so I'll definitely keep it in mind!!
I think we're probably our worst critics. I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts about it, and how you handled it was solid. I'm glad you didn't!
Yeah, I would probably not recommend it to my nieces and such since they're middle-grade. But YA/high schoolers would probably be a good fit for that book! So I guess the author's rating for it isn't bad. Would probably give a lot of the kids something to think about growing up; I know that my teachers definitely gave me similar topics to read 🥰
@@itsmimiduong Oh no! How would it make me feel better to know you’re sick? 😂 I’m glad you’re not retaining spoilers, but I hope you’ll feel better soon!
I think you’d enjoy Piranesi, it’s a fun and cozy time with just a a touch of darkness!
Absolutely it puts things into perspective. The topic isn’t new to me, but it’s a different thing reading it as fiction and getting the human feelings in that situation, compared to statistics or theories on a more academic level, so I think it would be a good read for younger people for that reason. It makes it easier to relate to I think, especially when there’s a romance in there!
weird how 2 years after reading Piranesi I don’t remember the ending that much… 😂
spoilers…
I remember having like a million theories while reading, but I have a hard time actually remembering what it was in the end 😅 so when you said you felt sorry for Piranesi, for a moment I was like: but why? he’s just the content and curious guy exploring his huge house... 😂 always interesting what sticks in mind ☺️
@@nanana_naaaa more spoilers
Haha yes, I can imagine that sticking though! He is so kind and caring and for the most part is very optimistic and a bit naive. Maybe read it again and see what you would think now? Or just keep the kindness in your heart and let it be like that 😊 I think ignorance was bliss for him, so as long as he was unaware he was pretty content!
@@ellenmadebookclub 😃 I kind of remember now, so gonna leave it for now at mostly thinking about naive joyful Piranesi going on his little adventures. This was also the part I enjoyed the most about the book overall, so I‘m fine with that 🙃
@@nanana_naaaa That sounds good! I hope I didn't ruin it for you 😊 Go with the joy! 💜
@@ellenmadebookclub not at all, still have it in very good memory ☺️