Thirteen Ways of Looking at the Novel : Book Review

"Thirteen Ways of Looking at the Novel" by Jane Smiley is a captivating and insightful exploration of the art, history, and craft of the novel. Smiley's expertise as both a novelist and reader shines through in this comprehensive examination of the literary form.

The book is divided into thirteen chapters, each offering a unique perspective on different elements of the novel. Smiley covers a broad range of topics, delving into the mechanics of storytelling and the reader's role in interpreting a novel. Through her extensive research and analysis, she provides thought-provoking insights into some of the most celebrated works of fiction, including those penned by Tolstoy, Dickens, and Austen.

One of the book's standout features is Smiley's ability to seamlessly blend her personal experiences and opinions with scholarly research. As both a writer and reader, she brings a dynamic and relatable voice to the text. Her conversational tone and accessible writing style make the book engaging for all readers, not just those within academic circles.

In addition to its exploration of literary theory, "Thirteen Ways of Looking at the Novel" also offers practical advice and guidance for aspiring writers. Smiley shares techniques for character development, narrative structure, and the path to publication. This makes the book a valuable resource for both established authors and those embarking on their writing journey.

Overall, Smiley's book is a unique and comprehensive exploration of the novel as an art form. Her passion for literature is evident, infusing each page with enthusiasm and depth. "Thirteen Ways of Looking at the Novel" is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the power and beauty of storytelling.

What are readers saying?

"Thirteen Ways of Looking at the Novel" by Jane Smiley has garnered a range of reviews, with some praising its insightful analysis of the novel as a literary form, while others finding fault with its dense and academic style.

Many readers commended Smiley's profound exploration of the novel, appreciating her extensive knowledge and passion for the genre evident in her writing. They found her ability to dissect various aspects of novel writing, such as character development, plot structure, and themes, thought-provoking and informative. Smiley's analysis offered readers a fresh perspective on the novels they read.

However, some reviewers felt that the book was overly verbose and laden with academic jargon, posing difficulties in engagement. They sought a more accessible and engaging approach to the subject matter and were disappointed with the dense writing style.

Despite differing opinions on the writing style, many readers praised Smiley's inclusion of a wide range of literary examples. They found her incorporation of both classic and contemporary novels valuable in enriching her analysis. These examples helped readers to better understand and contextualize her points.

Conversely, a few readers felt overwhelmed by the abundance of examples and references, finding it challenging to follow the author's train of thought. They believed the excessive focus on specific novels detracted from the overall analysis.

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