‘Held’ by Anne Michaels- A Review (and Re-View)

Hello! I’m Bob, and after some reluctance to go back and revisit this book, I did, and was pleasantly surprised!

I’d love to hear your thoughts about this book!

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[krista]

I waited a few months for my library hold to come in so I’m a bit late to this title. So far, this has been my favourite of the Booker 2024. It’s so multi-layered and spoke to me on a few levels. It was indeed haunting and I found its look at death and grief quite profound. It does hit a certain way when you consider it alongside life experiences of loss. I’m really looking forward to reading it again. Thanks so much, as always for your thoughtful review Bob!

[dM-ijwe]

Page 1.
The past exists as a present moment.

The book has many layers.

Glad you enjoyed the second read through.

[rifanugr]

For some reason, reading it gives me a feeling of being held.

[TiggerTellsTales]

I absolutely agree that this is a book you must read slowly and intentionally to fully appreciate. I digested it in segments and appreciated it. Will it be an enduring favorite probably not but beautifully written and maybe supposed to be held only fleetingly?

[readandre-read]

I still haven't read this but I want to! Thanks for the thoughtful review.

[kimswhims]

I'm glad that you gave this one another go. That the beautiful snapshots of prose spoke to you more. I'm so looking forward to rereading it and I'm one of those people who want it to win. Happy Reading

[antonypearce]

Great points about re-reading! I enjoyed Held and it had that book to keep feel and one you know you will revisit.

[AbiofPellinor]

I love that you've managed to get more out of a book after rereading it, I'm tempted to hunt this one down in my library

[johnkimourada]

Love a book that isn't done saying what it has, or can, say. Looking forward to the read.

[lindysmagpiereads]

I’m glad you gave Held another chance. I’ve read it twice and when I woke up to the news of the US election this morning, I considered sitting down with Held for a third time, simply for the comfort I knew I could draw from it. The option remains.

[ianp]

I saw Anne Michaels a couple of nights ago at a Booker event and hearing her talk about it really made me want to get to it. I think there is a project out there waiting for you - rereading all the Booker shortlists to see how much that changes your opinions 😮

[charlieuliginosa]

Can you believe Cusk wins the £10, 000 prize. Did we miss somehow the inventive uniqueness of Parade?

[umituysal]

I just finished the book and im confused. I have some questions.

What's the connection between Marie curie and the story?

Who is Helen James


Who is Anna from last part in 2025

Can somebody help me to understand?

[arnoldvezbon]

The book is trash and everyone knows it but if it wins a prize simpletons will praise it. Lol