Cloud Atlas - My Thoughts on the Book vs the Film

I have posted many book reviews here over the last several months. Each one is an attempt to be honest about how I feel about the book, and to help make a recommendation based on my thoughts and feelings regarding those particular books. I'm not in the habit of hating on books, although I have posted several lowers starred reviews at GoodReads that I kept from here. And one of them was just this week, and has left me somewhat annoyed as a reader. It regards a book that has been very well reviewed by many people (although not all, as I found out after trawling through the reviews over at GoodReads).

I tried a couple of times to read this book. Each time the writing just left me severely underwhelmed, unable to connect, or even care about what was happening. And this is why I was so annoyed, because I knew there was a good story in there. A great one, even. I gave up on the book, something I rarely do. I watched the film, and yes my feelings about the story were correct. It is a great story, and made a great film. But the book, ahhhhh! I'm sorry, I don't like not liking great novels. But it happens.

The book I refer to is Cloud Atlas, written by David Mitchell. I have read reviews from those who didn't like it that consider it pompous and a writer playing a joke on his readers. Even attacking the story itself. Those are not my views. As I said, the story actually appeals to me, as confirmed by the brilliant interpretation displayed in the film version. But the writing in the book! It does feel distant and conflicting to me. All of this has left me confused, but I have to accept that not all writing styles will appeal, and that is what this post is an attempt to communicate. Perhaps this book did appeal to you, or it will if you haven't read it as yet. Because at its heart is a complex, original, and highly entertaining story of non-linear time, connections through lifetimes, and a deeper meaning to our own individual lives. I find this idea appealing. So I offer this as my thoughts and feelings, and suggest that if the book doesn't grab you, at least give the film a go.

Although it is rare, sometimes the film is better than the book.

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