Well. I always wanted to read some Mary Roach. Saw my library had this one as an audiobook (9 hours) and thought that would be a great start. I got nowhere. The book- about human and animal conflicts- jumps immediately into describing a conference the author attended to learn how forensics experts identify what killed a person: wild animal (bear or cougar) human, or accident. The many close details on wounds, how they were inflicted, what that says about the animal, etc just were too much. I’m not sure why. Normally I would be okay reading this kind of stuff? Perhaps it was the deadpan delivery, such a matter-of-fact, clipped tone of voice (the author herself). I realize the subject matter varies, so I skipped ahead and put in the third CD, which has an account of the author’s visit to India, to see how people deal with leopards. I had the same kind of reaction, my mind drifting away from the narrative, and then when I focused in again, wondering after a few sentences: why am I listening to this? I’m not enjoying it. Sigh. I might try it again in actual book format. Or maybe this author’s style is just not for me.
Rating: Abandoned
320 pages, 2021
5 Responses
Hopefully the print book will work better for you. I don’t listen to many audiobooks, because the reader’s voice can really kill the story/info for me. Though if I had to drive a lot for work, I’m sure my opinion would change…
I agree. Though I don’t think I can listen to audiobooks while driving- I believe it would be far too distracting for me. I like to have one around now for when I’m doing a mindless task (usually cleaning something).
For a short time when I was very young, I listened while I drove. I think you might be right though, nowadays I wouldn’t want to be that distracted.
Having read a couple of books by Mary Roach, I can honestly say that this author is not for you. Not at all. I’m glad to see you went on to other reading. I don’t like when people force themselves to finish books they are not enjoying. There are far too many books out there to read in one lifetime. I say, move on.
Hi, James! Good to hear from you again. Well, I might give one more Mary Roach a try, but I have a hunch now that it’s going to be like David Sedaris for me- hit or miss at best, humor and dryness that rubs me the wrong way more likely.