Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Giovanni's Room
Book Review: A Masterpiece! Classic & Timeless
Summary: 5 Stars
James Baldwin's novel is a timeless, classic work. Everytime I read this novel I find new things and I fall in love with the book all over again. It is my favorite novel, period. For me the Paris that Baldwin writes about is not that far away from contemporary gay society. It is amazing how much has changed for the community while men (although not all) have remain mostly the same. There are certain parts of this book that will always remain with me, the shift in the narrative from present day to past memory, cental character, David's experimentation and later rejection of his friend Joey, David's first meeting with Giovanni, and the white, paint smeared window in Giovanni's room that separated two men in love from world that was not yet beginning to understand. In closing, I can't say enough how much I recommend this novel.Book Review: A Tragic and Terrific Masterpiece!!!
Summary: 5 Stars
One of my favorites novels of all time and perhaps the finest gay book ever written. This is the brilliant story of David, a closeted expatriate living in 1950s Paris whose world is rocked to its very foundations when he falls in love with bartender Giovanni. The spring affair ends in disaster, leaving both death and mournful regret in its wake. A driving narrative, numerous passages of incredible insight, poetry, vibrancy, and emotional gravity combine to make this pre-Stonewall classic a profound and unforgettable reading experience. Tragic and terrific!Book Review: A book you can't put down
Summary: 4 Stars
This book was so different from the other books I have read in my time. Baldwin really impressed me with his mysterious, and at times, dark imagery. There was so much passion, hope, and fear in the plot. I became a fan of Baldwin right away especially because of the daring dialogue among the characters' dealing with sexuality. I also admired the fact that Giovanni's Room is uncoventional in detailing David's (a man) love and interest in another man. I recommend that one read this book because Baldwin is an extremely passionate story teller.Book Review: A fictional masterpiece!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is without a doubt one of the best literary works I have ever read! "Giovanni's Room" is all about a young American expatriate named David who finds himself torn between his fiancee Hella and an Italian bartender named Giovanni. They carry on a love affair but when Hella returns from a trip in Spain, everything starts spiraling out of control in a whirlwind of powerful and excruciating emotion. James Baldwin does an excellent job of presenting this passionate yet painful story in the form of a narrative. The character development is superb, so much so that one believes the characters really do exist. This is a poignant and compelling story that will definitely leave an impression on you. Reading this novel, one really experiences the pleasure, the pain, the loneliness and the suffering these characters experience and endure. This is a powerful work of literary art that gives the readers insight into the emotions that come with being in love and the struggle to find one's identity amidst confusion and self-loathing. The story takes place in 1950's Paris and you'll really feel like you're there as James Baldwin's writing is so descriptive you'll be able to see all the little nuances and minute details. "Giovanni's Room" is a solid testament to James Baldwin's remarkable talent and profound insight. This story would make an excellent addition to any library! Also a great place to start if you're just discovering the genius of James Baldwin. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!Book Review: A great relic from the gay literature canon
Summary: 5 Stars
Giovanni's Room has that rare feeling of urgency. It is a love story that takes place within the shattered confines of the human spirit. We are taken on a literary journey that can be both insightful and heartbreaking at the same time. Despite being written decades ago, Baldwin's piece still resonates with us, for the themes and commentaries from Giovanni's Room still transpire even today.