30 pages or so into Clinton's book (possible spoilers)

[Zomby Woof]

First impressions here, and with 900+ pages remaining, these impressions are subject to change.

Most positive impression:

His HUMANITY comes through. His easygoing, yet reflective and talkative nature, are here in spades. You can hear his raspy drawl, to good effect. His sense of humor is intact, as is his empathy. This is why his memory and ability to connect are his strong suits, making his recollections vivid.

Most negative impression:

His tendency to slip a presidential accomplishment into an anecdote. No doubt the accomplishment is valid, and part of why we bought the book, and I don't want to begrudge him his rightful pride, but Bill... context, please. Though I do think the upside here is that it will drive his enemies nuts. You really can't remind people too much of a good thing. Still, from a narrative perspective, it gets clunky during these parts.

Too soon to grade, but I am enjoying it, and like the man himself, the flaws and virtues must be taken as a whole, or not at all.

[Anarcho-Socialist]

1. Sounds good n/t

[Supormom]

2. Can't wait to start reading the book.

Thanks for the early review.

[Sugarbleus]

3. Hubby just bought a suprise copy for me from COSTCO$19.95

I wasn't expecting it. It's HUGE. With all the books out there, how does anyone have time to come in here and post? lol

[Supormom]

4. Lucky You! Clinton's book and a generous hubby!

[Sugarbleus]

5. I'll tell him that....he could use a boost.... :-) eom

[Zomby Woof]

6. kick

[Lisa]

7. Al Gore does that too ...

Comparing the style of "Earth in the Balance" (written prior to his election as VP) with his later books, I've noticed he does the "accomplishment-insert" often.

It used to annoy me, and even now I find it somewhat distracting -- ZombyWoof is being very generous and helpful by pointing out the advantages of this technique. (Have you ever considered becoming an editor? Writers can get touchy or depressed at suggested changes, but you seem to have a winning mixture of constructive criticism!)

[Zomby Woof]

9. Thanks Lisa!

I do enjoy editing, but love writing even more, and I find it helps my writing to play 'editor' with others. :-)

The next time a critic says it is "self-serving" of Clinton to promote himself, they need to check the title of the book again. It says "MY Life". But I do agree that it is distracting at times.

[Gom Jabbar]

8. Thanks n/t

[Lugnut]

10. I agree with your review.

As I'm reading his words I'm hearing his voice relating events from his childhood. I also think his "inserts", although his rightful due, are disruptive. I'm enjoying it regardless. :)