One of the best books I have read recently. The author writes in a way that conveys emotions through the words rather than explicitly stating them. The mood of the writing changes, which makes the book dynamic. Best line: "I gave them their Devil's Trill..." ( )

I started out enjoying the rich language and description in this book. The premise was unique, as we the characters, but this book has some flaws. It spends to long setting the stage and then after an exciting bit, goes to a series of letters written in a provincial style that is infuriating to try to follow, and also, I didn't care enough to. I unashamedly skipped most of that part and skimmed to the end. I set out ready to really love this book, and I did enjoy the first 150 pages, but then it got so heavy and dark and philosophical and gruesome that I decided I didn't have to love it anyway. ( )

I have a serious book crush on M.T. Anderson. This goes right up there with What Is the What. ( )

This book has an amazingly authentic feel. It reminds me of children's books like _Kidnapped_ in its narrative and use of language. It is a fresh take on history told in a primary sources style. The pages of the edition I read were rough edged like pages that had to be cut to read the book. I almost wished the double S's were F's. ( )

started a while ago, tough read