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Book Jacket

The Map of True Places
by Brunonia Barry

Publisher: William Morrow
Publication date: 05/04/2010.
Novels, 416 pp.

Number of reader reviews: 31
Readers' Consensus: 4.0
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First Impressions: Page 1 of 5
Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Jim Gilliam, Author, Point Deception

Barry's "the map of true places" Soars With The Eagles
I have not read this type of book in years; I am tired of protagonists who are depicted as being somehow larger than life. I was looking for a different kind of protagonist; Zee a likable character with a tortured soul presents as a different kind of protagonist, she and the other characters are not larger than life but represent the very essence of life with all of its flaws. That is why I choose to read and review this book and I am extremely glad that I did. I was hooked from the first line. Born and raised on the Texas Gulf Coast I felt immediately drawn into this delightfully surprising story. The secret formula for good fiction is character plus conflict equals drama. Barry's characters are believable and conflicted; the drama leaps off the pages as the reader feverishly reads on to discover what happens next. The story moves like a freight train through a seamless plot that finally ends, leaving the reader with the sense that this is not really the ending for Zee but rather just the beginning.

Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Daniel A. (Naugatuck, CT)

The Map of True Places
I really liked this story. The last 100 pages or so had me spellbound. From chapter 37 on, the chapters got shorter and the pace was quicker until the very last page when I was able to breathe again. I highly endorse this sensational book.

Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Sandie F. (Eaton, OH)

The Map of True Places
The Map of True Places was an enjoyable read from beginning to end. There were some points where I was a little confused, however, it was all tied together in the end. Just enough suspense and twist to keep you wanting to read more. A very good read.

Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Kathleen J. (Mountain View, CA)

The Map of True Places
Ms. Berry has the ability to allow a reader to see a character's soul. She artfully weaves together the past, present and future into a strong story. The Map of True Places, provides a window into the life of a Parkinson's patient that allows the reader to both emotionally and intellectually understand the impact of this disease. This book hooks you at the first page and does not let go, even at the last page. Would recommend this to most of my friends. Cannot wait for Ms. Berry’s next book.

Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Kristen H. (Lowell, MA)

Real life imitation of fairy tales?
This book captured me from the very first page all the way up until the last especially since quite a bit of the story is set near where I live in Massachusetts. Boston and the other places aren't that far from me so it was great reading about some of the things I have seen firsthand. I think that this book would appeal to anyone from around the Massachusetts area if for no other reason than they might be familiar with the places mentioned. Another group of people who I think may enjoy this book are those that are interested in how people work, what they believe in and how it shapes us as humans and if we can change how we are later in life.

Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Judith M. (San Diego, CA)

The Map of True Places
I have hesitated between a 4 and 5 star rating for this book. I leaned toward 5 stars because as the story progressed I found that I couldn't put it down and read the last half straight through! Yes, it is not great literature, has a somewhat slow beginning, at times confusing plot, and a bit too coincidental. However, any story that keeps you in its spell is worth reading and earning 5 stars. I thought Ms. Barry particularly captured the conflicting emotions of caring for a failing parent. A book group would have many points to spark discussion. Not least of which, should family secrets be told?

Rated 5 of 5 of 5 by Marlys D. (Grand Rapids, MI)

Life Map
Another winner from Brunonia Barry! I love her quirky characters, including the "character" of Salem, MA. Zee's continuing struggle to find her true place in the world makes for compelling reading.

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