#10: The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros

[b-writes.livejournal.com]

I listened to the unabridged audiobook by this, read by the author. When Cisneros first spoke, I was taken slightly aback and afraid I wouldn't like the book: her voice is light, sweet, girly. I thought it might be twee, or goofy-sounding.

But I was quickly won over by her warmth and excellent reading. She has a deft, smart delivery, and she treats her listener like a confidante or best friend. The introduction was especially affecting (I am not sure if it's just in the audiobook or is included in newer editions of the book as well), where she talked about the reactions her book has inspired in readers over the years.

osprey_archer sums up the book very well here; I want to recommend the audiobook as a good car read, because the short chapters lend themselves well to short trips around town, and again, because Cisneros is such a good reader. I felt like I'd gained a new friend by the end of the book.

Comments

[osprey-archer.livejournal.com]

There's an introduction? My book didn't have it (although it was hardly the newest edition on the block) - I bet it's fascinating; I should see if I can track it down.

[b-writes.livejournal.com]

You should! It was great. I don't know if the print editions have it or not but I hope so.