Monday, August 17, 2009

I Capture the Castle


by Dodie Smith

I read this book a couple months ago. I tend to write reviews within a few days of reading the book because I lose so many details with time. However, life was just stressful and no fun after I finished this one, so I didn't get around to it. But, I enjoyed I Capture the Castle so much that I would like to write at least a couple thoughts on it.

The writing is fabulous. Cassandra's voice is so fun - I wish I knew a girl like her. I returned the book to the library ages ago, so I don't have any quotes, but the oft-quoted first line is "I write this sitting in the kitchen sink." I was pretty sure I would like this one from there, and I did.

The only thing I didn't really love about this one was the ending. I was happy with the ending, but I can't decide if it was realistic to Cassandra's character.

It's not really a romance, but the story kind of has that feel throughout.

Definitively an enjoyable read.

4 out of 5 stars.

8 comments:

Laura H said...

Hmmm never heard of the book or author. Thanks

Susan said...

I liked this one, too. I read it probably 5 years ago or so - at the time, I tried to find other books by this author. I believe she's deceased. I think this was her only book. Bummer.

KT said...

Laura - I hope you like her!

Susan - I don't think there are many novels by Dodie Smith, but I do know that she wrote 101 Dalmatians and its sequel. I haven't actually read those though.

Shelley said...

I loved this one too but remember the ending being a little weird as well. Still a great book though!

Mary E Campbell said...

I love this book - it is one of my all time favorites. Great coming of age book. Love the quirky characters and Catherine. Have you seen the movie? Doesn't quite do it justice, but it's pretty good. The ending is hard for me too.
Oh Hi, I just meant to thank you for entering my contest and yes it is still going until tonight. I saw your review for I Capture the Castle and I felt immediately that we were friends.

Mary E Campbell said...

I meant Cassandra - don't know why I wrote Catherine.

Kim said...

Sounds like my kind of book. Thanks for the review.

Anonymous said...

It's been a while, but I really enjoyed this book. I didn't know that Dodie Smith also wrote 101 Dalmations, although I feel as if I should have known. She's quite the talented writer, no?