A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius

I've read a few books by this author and loved them all so was keen to get another. This is one of his early books (if not the first) and seems to be well rated although it's hard to work out before you start it what the book is actually about.That becomes much more clear when you get into the book - it not about anything of any significance.I really disliked the way that the narrative jumps about in a way that makes me think the author was trying too hard to be rebelious.The author is very bitter and twisted which does not reflect well into his writing.

The idea of someone who is completely unknown (at the time it was written) thinking his story is worthy of being heard strikes me as somewhat egotistical and presumptous. So this is why I was expecting to not like this book; i.e. I wasn't expecting to like the author as a person.The first 50 odd pages cover the decline and deaths of his parents, which I found rather dry, but it is really just setting the scene for what is to come. These deaths leave the author with the financial wherewithal to be independant at the age of 22. His 'problem' however is that he is also left largely responsible for his 7 year old younger brother. The tension between wanting to lead a 'normal' youthful existence and the overriding concerns for welfare of his brother (to whom he is clearly devoted) is central and touchingly portrayed. But, the reason I have given this book the full 5* is because it is one of only a handful of books that have ever made me literally laugh out loud. This was when he describes a nude photo shoot on a beach.There is both anger and energy coming off the pages of this book, and whilst I can see at times it may come across as self-consciously pretentious in places, it is all done knowingly and I at least was ok with it all.Read with an open mind, and be prepared to laugh a lot and (maybe) cry a little.

Touching, funny memoir. The writing is original and informal.The personal tale Eggars tells is indeed heartbreaking and yet recounted without a hint of self pity. Eggars’ anecdotes are vivid and often comedic. This is a brilliant read and his novels are also worth exploring. The only book I know of where the title and review are rolled into one!

Wasn't sure what to expect from this title but I'm pleased o bought it as it was a good read with meaning, no spoilers here but it is a good read. Enjoyed it

Exactly as the title describes. This novel is unlike anything I had read before, it is one man's roller-coaster ride through a confounding and brutally unforgiving life. Dave Eggers manages to tell his story, though, with charm and relentless humour. This book divides people because it has such a distinctive style, and it obviously isn't for everyone, but if you like off-kilter fiction with bundles of character, then this novel will reward you time and again.