Fantastic. Absolutely fantastic. The movie was a let down but i expected that. This book is one of those that no matter what the film adaptation, everyone will be unhappy with something because there is no substitute for their own imaginings of the story. I had so much fun reading this, which was refreshing and great because I normally don't enjoy fantasy/scifi stuff.

This will be one of those books I give to people in 20 years time just to see the look of scepticism on their face at such an old book and then to see their pure enjoyment by the time they hit chapter two. This really is a timeless wonder I think and one that you absolutely cannot judge by it's cover (or its fans - they're too varied).

As other reviewers have suggested, the Laments are aptly named. Tragedy visits the family frequently, but it is less of a jolt to the readers than it might be, thanks to Hagen's light touch.

It may be that Hagen's subjects evoke more sympathy for their disasters since the source of their troubles is typically not a personal defect or weakness, but the collusion of external racism, greed, callous speculation, or misinformation. Watch for one character in particular to shed naivete late in the book, and finally break down the last barrier to a more hopeful future.

Amazing. Isherwood writes with subtlety and flair. Touching, hilarious, painful, very interesting.

A book in which the main character turns out to be the "Person from Porlock" who is on a mission to stop Samuel Taylor Coleridge from completeting his famous "Kubla Kahn, A Fragment" poem lest the universe be destroyed--how is this not a perfect novel for a lit geek like myself? I don't know. Possibly because the first time I read it was in 2003 and I had never read "Kubla Kahn," had no idea what the book was talking about, and read it between customers while I was working the box office at our town's cinema. I've tried to pick it up again since then, but the truth is I still haven't been able to get into it enough to finish it a second time. Sad, because I love that Person from Porlock and I'd like to know more about him. Maybe I'll try it again and change my mind :)

Sidney Welles is assigned the Catholic Church image overhaul campaign and sets out to give the church a face lift of sorts…what ensues is a hilarious stumble through questions of faith, love and self discovery.

Susi Rajah’s solo debut has proven beyond the shadow of a doubt that contemporary literature or Chic Lit can be thought provoking and outrageously funny without requiring the reader to check their common sense and intellect at the door.

Sydney Welles was one of those career women that seemed to have everything figured out and running smoothly. However, that which works so well on paper does not always translate into reality quite so seamlessly. Dumped by her boyfriend for a shapelier blond, she throws herself into work. Assigned, by her alcoholic boss, to the all important Catholic Church image overhaul campaign, it’s up to Sidney to find a way to put the church back into the good graces of the people. She begins sending emails to god, simple questions, comments and personal observations and rants. In one particularly poignant communication she tells ‘god’ she prefers he not respond, because these days folks that claim to speak with him aren’t exactly Solomon or David.

Part saint, part sinner, wholly engrossing, this book will have you laughing, while nodding your head in agreement. The no-nonsensical dialogue style brings the reader right into the heart and soul of theological, religious debates, as well as, the hypocrisy within our society through this hilarious, entertaining read. The blurbs on the dust cover are appealing appetizers, that give the reader an indication of the delicious entree just waiting to be devoured. Brilliantly conceived, uniquely written and conveyed with depth and conviction, Rajah’s quick wit and subtle criticisms, combined with no holds barred emails to the Big Guy himself, demonstrate her uniquely evocative way of crafting an intelligent feast that is truly satisfying!

This is one of those novels you will want to pass around to friends and family! I recommend this novel to all fiction readers, ladies and gentlemen alike! If you enjoy a fun read that seems to melt the hours from the clock and never insults your intelligence, The Gospel According To Sidney Wells delivers!

Happy Reading!


This would be a wonderfully fun romantic comedy movie - provided the right folks were cast to play the roles! I would love to see it on the big screen!