Hotel World : Book Review

In "Hotel World" by Ali Smith, the story revolves around five distinct characters whose lives intertwine within the confines of a hotel. The narrative is artfully fragmented, providing multiple perspectives and glimpses into the inner thoughts and experiences of each individual.

The first character we meet is Sara, a chambermaid who tragically died in the hotel. Despite her ghostly existence, Sara remains connected to the hotel, reflecting on her life and death. Her presence serves as a haunting reminder of the transient nature of our existence. We also become acquainted with Sara's sister, Clare, who grapples with the overwhelming grief of losing her sibling. Clare becomes determined to uncover the truth about Sara's final moments, seeking solace in understanding what led to her sister's untimely demise.

Else, an ambitious and materialistic teenager, works at a nearby fast-food restaurant and develops an intriguing fascination with the hotel and its inhabitants. As she questions the intricacies and meanings of life, Else finds herself captivated by Sara's spectral presence, leading her on a journey of self-reflection and self-discovery.

Lise, a homeless woman, seeks refuge within the hotel, offering a unique perspective on the lives of the other characters. Her story intersects with theirs, shedding light on the common threads of loss, longing, and the universal search for connection and purpose.

Lastly, the narrative introduces us to Penny, a hotel guest who grapples with her own existential crisis. As Penny contemplates her place in the world and the choices she has made, she becomes acutely aware of the interplay between chance and destiny, and the complex tapestry of lives that converge within the walls of the hotel.

What are readers saying?

The novel "Hotel World" by Ali Smith has received a diverse response from readers, indicating varying opinions on its merits. With an overall rating of 3.60 out of 5 stars, the book has garnered mixed reviews.

Several readers thoroughly enjoyed the book and praised Smith's writing style, commending the well-developed characters and engaging narrative. They appreciated how the story delved into themes of loss, grief, and the interconnectedness of individuals. These readers found the book to be thought-provoking, prompting self-reflection on their own lives and relationships. Many of these positive reviews highlighted Smith's ability to capture emotions and craft vivid scenes.

However, there were readers who found "Hotel World" to be a challenging read. They struggled with the fragmented narrative and unconventional structure, making it difficult to connect with the characters. Some felt that the story lacked a clear plot, leaving them searching for meaning in the disjointed storytelling. These readers found the writing style confusing and felt disconnected from the narrative.

Additionally, there were readers who provided more neutral reviews for the book. They acknowledged Smith's talent as a writer but found "Hotel World" somewhat underwhelming compared to her other works. While they appreciated the unique perspective and exploration of human connection, they felt that the execution fell short.

In conclusion, the reception of Ali Smith's "Hotel World" has been varied, with readers expressing different views on its strengths and weaknesses. While some enjoyed the engaging narrative and thought-provoking themes, others struggled to connect with the story due to its unconventional structure. Ultimately, readers' enjoyment of the book may depend on their preferences for fragmented narratives and unconventional storytelling techniques.

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