From the author of The Book Thief comes this darkly funny and ultimately uplifting thriller which proves that anyone can be extraordinary. Ed Kennedy is just your less-than-average Joe who is hopelessly in love with his best friend, Audrey. But after he single-handedly manages to catch a bank robber, he receives a playing card in the mail: the Ace of Diamonds. This is the first message. Four more will follow. But before this particular card game can end, Ed will be changed forever . . . Will Audrey love the man he has ...
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From the author of The Book Thief comes this darkly funny and ultimately uplifting thriller which proves that anyone can be extraordinary. Ed Kennedy is just your less-than-average Joe who is hopelessly in love with his best friend, Audrey. But after he single-handedly manages to catch a bank robber, he receives a playing card in the mail: the Ace of Diamonds. This is the first message. Four more will follow. But before this particular card game can end, Ed will be changed forever . . . Will Audrey love the man he has become?
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Publisher:
Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Published:
2006
Language:
English
Alibris ID:
17209839245
Shipping Options:
Standard Shipping: $4.49
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Seller's Description:
Good. A copy that has been read, but remains in clean condition. All pages are solid. the cover is intact, but may show scuffs or light creases, as well as a possible rolled corner. The spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting, The former owner may have written their name inside the front or back cover.
Publisher:
Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Published:
05/2006
Language:
English
Alibris ID:
16484445861
Shipping Options:
Standard Shipping: $4.49
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Fair. Noticeably used book. Text is legible but may be soiled and have binding defects. Heavy wear to covers and pages contain marginal notes, underlining, and or highlighting. Possible ex library copy, with all the markings/stickers of that library. Accessories such as CD, codes, toys, and dust jackets may not be included.
A very good, very easy read. I was skeptical that this would be on par with Book Thief, but though it is very different it is still very good. Has some nice themes with heft, and the spare style that made Book Thief so good. Highly recommended.
It is the story of everybody's life if we take life seriously.
ROBERT L
Nov 7, 2013
Interesting plot
The books plot has many twists and turns and builds the characters so you can identify with them. The ending ties everything togeter very well.
GoluxGirl
Jan 20, 2009
entertaining and suspenseful
I had a feeling about this book in the store--that sudden understanding that I would either really love it, or really hate it. I took a chance for the positive, and that chance paid off. I've never read anything by Zusak before; he's a talented writer, with a sharp ear for dialogue and a quick wit. The lead character is highly relatable, an everyman schlub caught between teenage angst and adult pragmatism. I like the way Zusak builds from one assignment to the next. I like the way Ed's eyes and understanding open mission by mission.
***Kinda spoiler-y*** As Ed grew to understand his life as a messenger, I couldn't help but think that what he is learning is the whole purpose of life (or pretty close to it). Ed has to watch the houses and the people in order to know what needs to be done. He can't just waltz in and out of their lives. He has to connect on a personal level. Ed shows us the meaning of friendship, family, and community, by taking part in the lives of those around him.
A few things make me hesitate to recommend it completely: For one thing, there is far too much swearing. I don't like it, though the writing is good enough that I overlooked it this time (I've been known return books to the store unfinished). Also -- and here's another BIT OF SPOILER, so skip to the end if you don't want to know -- I didn't like the meta-reference ending; it made the story feel suddenly like a sermon. Good point, Zusak, I got it, no need to point to it with neon.
Overall: stylish, smart, fun, mysterious, and thought-provoking.
DMP587
Jan 15, 2009
Couldn't Put This Book Down!
This book was unusually delightful. It is full of suspence, while it makes you think how an ordinary life can be transformed by helping others. This is a good book, and Markus Zusak is a talented writer. If you enjoyed this book then you must read Markus Zusak's, 'Book Theif' One of my all time favorites!
