"Study Away" by Mariah Balaban is an incredibly engaging and thought-provoking book that details the author's experiences studying abroad. Throughout the book, Balaban takes readers on a fascinating journey across Europe, providing a vivid account of her time in cities such as Paris, Rome, and London. Her writing style is both accessible and captivating, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in her story.
What sets "Study Away" apart is Balaban's ability to skillfully capture the cultural differences she encounters and the impact they have on her worldview. She skillfully explores the nuances of language, customs, and traditions, highlighting the beauty in diversity and emphasizing the importance of embracing other cultures. This exploration adds depth to the book, making it more than just a travel narrative.
Another notable aspect of "Study Away" is Balaban's honest and reflective narration. She openly shares her moments of homesickness, loneliness, and struggles adapting to a new environment. However, she also highlights the joys and rewards that come with stepping outside of one's comfort zone. Balancing the challenges with the positive aspects of studying abroad, Balaban offers a relatable and inspirational perspective.
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Balaban's detailed descriptions of the cities she visits are remarkable. Through her vivid prose, readers are transported to each location, feeling as though they are right alongside her on her travels. This ability to paint a vivid picture enhances the reading experience and brings the stories to life.
Overall, "Study Away" is an engaging and insightful book that offers a unique glimpse into the study abroad experience. Balaban's writing style, descriptive narratives, and exploration of cultural differences make it a must-read for anyone interested in travel, education, and personal growth. Whether you have studied abroad yourself or are considering it in the future, "Study Away" will leave a lasting impression on readers, provoking thought and inspiring adventure.
What are readers saying?
"Study Away" by Mariah Balaban has garnered a variety of opinions from its readers. While some found the book to be a captivating and relatable coming-of-age tale, complete with compelling characters and a palpable sense of place, others were not as enamored, citing a slow pace and a struggle to connect with the protagonist.
Many readers applauded Balaban's ability to capture the essence of the college experience within the story. They praised her evocative descriptions of the study abroad program and the obstacles that the main character, Lucy, faced. These readers found the book to be an engrossing exploration of self-discovery, personal growth, and the power of friendship.
Fortunately, the characters in "Study Away" generally received positive feedback from readers. They were seen as genuine, multi-dimensional individuals, grappling with relatable challenges and harboring relatable aspirations. Readers appreciated the complexity of their relationships and the development of their individual storylines throughout the book.
On the other hand, some readers felt that the pacing of the story was lackluster, hindering their complete immersion in the narrative. These readers believed that the plot lacked tension, and the overall progression meandered aimlessly. They had hoped for a more focused and compelling narrative arc.
Moreover, a few readers struggled to connect with Lucy, the main character. They found her to be unrelatable and lacking emotional depth, which hampered their engagement with the story. These readers desired a greater sense of character development and a deeper understanding of Lucy's psyche.
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