Comment

Oct 11, 2018SFBookAddict rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
I decided to read this book because it's considered one of the best American novels and actress Diane Lane, whom I greatly respect, recommended it on the PBS Great American Read (she portrayed Lorie in the TV dramatization). Since I had never read a western, I thought it was time I did and gave it a try, even though it's very long. I absolutely loved the TV drama which I saw 20 years ago. Author Larry McMurtry is a fine writer and tells this tale in rich details You meet many interesting people. I looked forward to reading it every night before I went to bed. I love the character Augustus McCrae --- who wouldn't? He is one of the best characters ever in a book, now one of my favorite. Some of the things he said made me laugh out loud. If you like adventure, this books is for you. It is indeed gritty. The violence and hardships made me cringe. This book is not for the faint of heart. What really intrigued me were the female characters: Lorie, Clara and Elmira who play very important roles in this story. It wasn't the best book I ever read but I really like it. It did not, however, knock my socks off as I had expected. The TV show did. Nonetheless it's worth the time and effort. It is a great escape and will take you on one hell of a ride.