Comments on: The Museum of Extraordinary Things

By: Andi (@estellasrevenge)

Andi (@estellasrevenge) — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 21:42:43 +0000

I’m sorry this one didn’t impact you the same way Dovekeepers did, but I’m glad you liked Dove so much because it’s on my Nook right now!

By: Catherine

Catherine — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 17:20:26 +0000

In reply to Jennine G.. Jennine, it might be interesting but one of the criticisms of Museum is that the Shirtwaist Factory was an aside, when really, she could have built the story around it. Still, the two combined could be good reading.

By: Catherine

Catherine — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 17:19:16 +0000

In reply to Cynthia Robertson. Cynthia, if you're going to start a Hoffman I'd suggest The Dovekeepers. That one had a power and beauty that almost knocked me over. The women were strong and fierce. Not at all like this one where they were largely victims.

By: Michelle

Michelle — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 15:05:12 +0000

I think the biggest issue at fault with this novel was the lack of focus. Hoffman has the reader flitting from the factory fire to Coney Island to the slums of Brooklyn to the Hudson River and more. There is just too much going on for a reader to be able to discern a main theme or follow a distinct plot. It’s disappointing because I do think it has unfulfilled potential. It could have been a beautiful novel.

By: Jennine G.

Jennine G. — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 04:09:45 +0000

This does sound interesting though. I have a book on my shelf about the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, so these would be cool to read one after the other.

By: Cynthia Robertson

Cynthia Robertson — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 02:20:28 +0000

Beautiful review, Catherine. And nicely expressed disappointment with the end. I’ve always had a hard time with her novels, finding them, the writing, too self concious for my taste. I haven’t read one in a while though, so maybe it’s time to try one again.

By: Katie @ Words for Worms

Katie @ Words for Worms — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 02:05:20 +0000

I have always enjoyed Alice Hoffman, I’m sorry to hear this one fell a bit flat for you.