Although I haven't had much reading time recently, I did attempt to work my way through The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. While I initially enjoyed this novel about a young woman starting life after a childhood spent in foster care and group homes, the story lost its charm for me about halfway through. This was quite disappointing as author Diffenbaugh had a neat idea for what might have been a very special book: a young woman overcoming adversity with her knowledge of flowers and her special talent for matching flowers with people's needs. I hoped I'd be reading something magical like The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake and When God was a Rabbit, but the author went in a different direction. Although I was ultimately disappointed with it, I suspect many other readers will likely rave about The Language of Flowers.
Now it's on to The Informant by Thomas Perry. The book is the third in Perry's series about a professional hit-man who's real name is unknown, but who those in the criminal underworld call "the Butcher's Boy".
Captivated and enthralled by this beautifully written story and left with a sad sense of separation from the characters upon its ending. One of the best novels I have read, its exquisite message is a gift to each reader of the simple beauty and importance of our very human imperfections. Ultimately Vanessa Diffenbaugh teaches us that we are perhaps not perfect but always deserving of both giving and receiving love.
ReplyDeletePortugal, thanks for sharing your opinion of "The Language of Flowers."
ReplyDelete