"American Pastoral" by Philip Roth • BOOK REVIEW

[@whawkins8636]

To date, hands down, the best book I've read thus far. Roth was at the tip of his literary game when he penned this masterpiece.

[@bobmcgahey1280]

I agree

[@vinegar_joe]

Just finished American Pastoral about a half hour ago. I too love Philip Roth and I absolutely loved this book. Interestingly, when I turned on the computer after finishing the book, the lead headline on my news feed read, "Ukrainian President: The end of the world has arrived." Not exactly the pick-me-up one may need as they reflect on this great book. Thanks for your thoughtful (and cultured) review.

[@tomlabooks3263]

Great video. I liked how you summarized Roth’s pessimistic philosophy. LOVED the choice if music (end scenes of Truman Show?). Also, when I read it I remember thinking that the bomb that the Swede’s daughter sets off might be , on a certain level, an analogy for the explosive impact that 1968 had on culture. Something that shattered the illusions / delusions of the previous times.

[@georgeliverpudlio1258]

I love this book. Thankyou so much for your thoughtful review. The last one hundred pages are astonishing. Sabbath's Theatre and The Human Stain are my other Roth favourites. Truly brilliant. I married a Communist is also good. But it's a little too politically centre - liberal and anti - left wing for my taste. There are awful stereotypes in it. The Plot Against America is pretty good too. 👍

[@raytsdc]

Found your review while searching for more Roth's books. I am a chapter away from finishing American Pastoral. I guess I am kinda saving it for tonight's reading. Your review is insightful especially on the "metanarrative" style of Roth. American Pastoral is my introduction into Roth's works and I am liking it. You're right, you need a lot of concentration reading his book. It's worth it though. I had to ask, have you read other books that have that kind of style? A "framed story" or metanarrative style of story?

[@georgeliverpudlio1258]

The American Nightmare!