This book started off really well. I was hooked. I had meant to read just a couple of pages before bed, and soon found that I could not put it down. The premise was great: one man left in a world full of vampires. And in fact, all the short stories included after it were similar in that regard; they were all great ideas for stories. The problem was in the execution of the ideas. Matheson took some great ideas and let them fall flat on their faces. Each story had me excited; had my complete attention. They were great story ideas, and I was all a tingle with anticipation. But, too quickly, I found myself wondering when the story would just be over with. I was so disappointed. So, I guess it gets two of five stars for interesting ideas, but fails to earn the other three because of poor execution. In the hands of another writer using the same premises for each of the eleven stories (one novella and ten short stories), this could have been a five out of five. But, in it's current form, it just didn't make the grade.
Very informative review.
ReplyDeleteI often like to read negative reviews because I like it when people think about what they are reading or watching, more than just for entertainment value. I find it refreshing when someone can say what was good about it, and also give an intelligent argument for why they ultimately didn't like it. :)
Thank you, Robby :) I'm glad I'm doing a good job at reviewing! And don't worry; there are plenty more reviews in the works; though I'll try to post about other things besides just reviews...
ReplyDeleteThe dog died... in the movie. I cried.
ReplyDeleteIn the book, I felt like they didn't put that much emphasis on the dog. It was just sort of glossed over. I mean, I was sad when it died, but the way Matheson handled it was just so matter of fact....It felt so hollow :( Maybe I should check out the movie; perhaps it's better?
ReplyDeleteIn the movie will smith and dog DIED i felt very sad.
ReplyDeleteyou did well. nice work
The fact the dog died to quickly makes it all the more heartbreaking - he had only just found a companion when it was snatched from his grasp by uncontrollable forces after all the patience and effort he went into befriending the canine.
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