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What readers think of The Poisonwood Bible, plus links to write your own review.

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The Poisonwood Bible

by Barbara Kingsolver

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver X
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
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  • First Published:
    Oct 1998, 543 pages

    Paperback:
    Sep 1999, 560 pages

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There are currently 133 reader reviews for The Poisonwood Bible
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Nancy (06/01/04)

This book gave me an insight into a way of life I could never have imagined. The starvation, the danger from the wildlife and diseases were all brought into sharp focus by Kingsolver. Initially, the book had trouble holding my attention but the longer the Prices were in the Congo the more interested I became. Being a mother myself, it was very hard to understand, why Orleanna even brought her children into the Congo and even more baffling why she continued to stay. Even with the insights provided by the author into the character, I found her inability to act to protect her children infuriating. The father character was unspeakably deplorable to put his family at risk. Due to his actions, every single one of the family members he was ultimately responsible for suffered loss and had the course of their lives changed for the worse, in my opinion, with the possible exception of Adah. While I believe the book to be well written and informative, I can't say that I really loved this book because it left me with such a feeling of hopelessness and disappointment in humanity.
Keyton Williams (05/30/04)

I disliked the book very much. I believe the Americans were portrayed under a stereotype. Along with this the book just seems to be the kind of book you would read if your suicidal. It never truly has happy moments. The book itself is very dark and brooding. Although it did have some prodigious points, it just seemed too 600 pages too much of unnecessary negativity.
Dave (05/04/04)

I thought the book was well written and had many well thought out underlying themes that we can all learn from. However, I think she overstepped the boundary with her story. I don't agree with her views on America, the government, and Americans in general. She has shamed the entire country by rejecting its citizens in this book. This book only contributes to the stereotype of Americas that is prevalent around the world. Very few Americans are like Nathan and the American government is not as power hungary and greedy as portrayed in this book. It is completely acceptable for Kingsolver to believe this because I believe in freedom of expression, however, I think she should move to France!
Brad (04/23/04)

One of the best books I've ever read.
Lauren (04/14/04)

This boos is absolutly amazing and I would reccomed it to anyone who wish to read a book that is life altering. This book is about religion but you do not have to know anything about it to understand. If I could give it more stars I would!!!
erin (04/07/04)

It was the best book ever, with unique and individual characters. You dont even have to read which character is. You have to read this book
Nicole (02/28/04)

This ranks as one of the best books I have ever read. As a mother of three daughters, I found myself relating in different ways to the four girls and then to my own girls. I loved the way Barbara gave each narrator such an individual voice, I didn't need to check who was talking. A great insight into the Congo in the 50's, beautifully written. A masterpiece!
Helen (02/26/04)

This book was amazing! i was only reading it for my english author paper but i got really into it and i think it's worth while for everyone to read it. there is to much to be learnt from it!!

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