Flying Leap : Book Review

"Flying Leap" by Judy Budnitz is a captivating collection of short stories that takes readers on a unique and mesmerizing journey through the peculiar and fantastical. Each story is a whirlwind of imagination, blurring the boundaries of reality and immersing readers in a world of wonder.

One of the standout aspects of Budnitz's writing is her ability to create vivid and memorable characters. From the eccentric and enigmatic ice cream seller to the daring and resilient circus performer, each character is expertly crafted and leaves a lasting impression. Despite the surreal situations they find themselves in, these characters are relatable and human, adding depth to the stories.

Budnitz's prose is rich with metaphor and poetic language, enhancing the dreamlike quality of the narratives. Her unique blend of dark humor and poignant observations creates a compelling reading experience. In addition to the fantastical elements, Budnitz's stories explore themes such as identity, loss, and the search for meaning, adding a layer of depth to the collection.

The stories in "Flying Leap" are inventive and imaginative, providing readers with a refreshing departure from traditional storytelling. Each story is set in a different location, ranging from exotic settings to mundane everyday life, but all are infused with a sense of wonder and surprise. Budnitz's ability to create intricate and detailed worlds within each story is truly remarkable.

Overall, "Flying Leap" is a delightful collection of stories that pushes the boundaries of reality and imagination. With its memorable characters, poetic prose, and thought-provoking themes, Judy Budnitz's book is a must-read for fans of whimsical and unconventional storytelling. It is a book that will transport readers to enchanting realms and leave them contemplating the mysteries of life.

What are readers saying?

Summarizing the reviews of Judy Budnitz's book "Flying Leap," there is a diverse range of reactions from readers, both positive and negative. Overall, the book seems to evoke strong emotions and opinions.

Some readers express admiration for Budnitz's unique storytelling and her talent for creating vivid and eccentric characters. They praise her poetic and mesmerizing writing style, as well as the creativity and originality of the fantastical elements in the stories, which transport readers to strange and imaginative worlds.

However, other readers found the stories confusing and disjointed. They criticize the lack of clear plotlines and character development, making it difficult to fully engage with the narratives. Some readers find the stories too bizarre and abstract, leaving them unsatisfied and disconnected.

A recurring theme in the reviews is the presence of dark humor throughout the book. Many readers appreciate Budnitz's ability to infuse humor into her stories, even when addressing unsettling situations. They find this comedic element refreshing and an effective way to engage with difficult subjects.

On the other hand, some readers feel that the dark humor is excessive and overshadows the deeper themes of the book. They believe it hinders their ability to appreciate the emotional depth and complexity of the stories, leaving them feeling detached from the characters and their experiences.

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