I've heard some people say it felt too insular, and that although it's called My Friends, they felt it was too cold and did not connect with the friends. Not my feelings, but perhaps why
I DNFed Enlightenment in the spring, which tracks because I have a long history of not enjoying Booker titles to the point where if I know a title has been listed, I don't even bother with it. But I read My Friends when it was released back in January because I love exile themes in literature. It's my favourite book I've read all year. I was thrilled to see it had been longlisted just because it meant it would get much deserved eyes on it.
I really enjoyed your reviews, have just subscribed. I've read roughly half and Stone Yard is my favourite but My Friends is also up there (I haven't read James yet, and think The Safekeep will also be up my street). Everyone's already said it but, the omission of my friends surprised me a lot. I expected one of the floaty ruminating books to make the shortlist, but not two
I enjoyed this video. Thank you! Three of your top four books were my top three (My Friends, James, and Stone Yard Devotional), and I really appreciate that you mentioned some of the problems with The Safekeep. I think it's the most overrated book on the longlist, and I was quite surprised to see it on the shortlist. I hate to say this, but it feels like a book an AI could have written.
Brilliant summary and thoughts - probably because I concur to a shockingly similar degree! I have not finished the list, but we share a top 4 (same books and placements). I DNF the Messud and the Harvey. Life’s too short. 😴😴 Currently reading the Michaels and the Kushner. I despised Kusher’s Mars Room and Flamethrowers, but this one has me intrigued to keep reading at least. How My Friends didn’t at least make the shortlist is mind-blowing. Thanks for sharing yours thoughts. 👍
I don’t mean this as a criticism but do you read from a script? I love your videos but sometimes I feel like they lack like a natural flow. Potentially it’s just I’m used to listening to a different rhythm of speaking!
I did in this video but it's very rare I do! Most of my videos are unscripted. The reviews of Stone Yard Devotional and My friends in this are not scripted either.
