Us: A Novel

I did not want this book to ever end. It was beyond glorious! It was so magnificently written that it felt like a movie playing in my head as I read it, it was so vivid. The author expertly brought the story to life; the characters were so complex and fascinating, oscillating between being flawed, lovable, irritating, boring, interesting, kind, mean, funny, intense - and so on. Without exception, each character was very human, very authentic and very credible. The story was sad, happy, poignant, tough - it traversed the gamut of emotions. A very clever, engrossing read, I really cared about.and identified with the characters. 'The Grand Tour' was such a descriptive, evocative gem - I could picture the places the family visited. In my head, I was there with them in Europe! The story was a blend of so much: a love story, family relationships, a travel adventure, the strength and weakness of the human spirit, loss, hope, resilience ... the list goes on. Clever, clever, clever ... the ending was an absolute doozy. Those few words at the end spoke volumes about the essence and character of the protagonist. So much said with so very few words. Utterly, superbly delightful, this was a rich and memorable read.

A feel-good book. Looked forward to each opportunity to read it, knowing I would thoroughly enjoy the experience. So often books on family relationships focus on the dreary aspects of family bickering, looming divorce possibilities, coming-of age-angst. This novel features all those characteristics, but with a quirky, upbeat, witty emphasis. The writing style is clear, concise, and amusing. Douglas and Connie, the man and wife, seem "real" - and a Grand Tour of Europe in an attempt to salvage the marriage and bond with Albie, the 17-YO offspring, doesn't stretch the bounds of credibility. Several scenarios seem unlikely, but, hey, this is a work of fiction and the author can do with the characters as he likes (or possibly the characters can lead the author around by the nose?). Albie is presented as the typical (stereotypical?) teenager. There are good reasons why he has a strained relationship with his dad, but I wish that Nicholls could have given a bit more attention to Albie's personality, thoughts, and goals (if any). I highly recommend any book written by David Nicholls, and put this one at the top of the list. "Us" won't give you profound insights into the meaning of life, but it will raise your spirits and help you realize that family relationships can be dysfunctional and still produce some tender moments. (4-1/2 stars).

an easy read on a quiet afternoon. Well developed storyline, nice to see how art is incorporated - great to read about las Meninas, an amazing painting ! I liked the mild irony and humour, some events are a bit farfetched, but made me smile nevertheless. And that's what this book does : put a smile (and a grin) on your face

I loved this book and was always eager to return to it whenever I had a few minutes. The characters were believable and very relatable. At times it seemed so close to my own life, I felt somehow part of the story. Briefly, it was about a family taking one last grand tour of Europe before they go their own ways, the son off to college and a grown-up, independent life, the wife, seeing no need to remain it a marriage that isn't making her happy, and the husband, very intelligent, very pompous, and clueless, who doesn't want the marriage to end. There are times when it is very funny and times when it is so sad. But in essence, it was a very real story that I could relate to and become deeply involved in. One of the best books I've read in a long time.

Because I love Nicholls's novel One Day and saw that Us has been filmed, I knew I needed to read it before seeing it. I can't say that I like it or dislike it. Once again, Nicholls develops strong characters, this time from the sole viewpoint of husband and father Douglas Petersen who is determined to save his marriage to Connie and his relationship with their teenaged son Albie. My problem with the narrative is that I didn't care or feel sympathy for Connie or Albie, leaving me wondering why Douglas would try so hard to stay with them. Nicholls is a good writer and maybe that was his intention. While I am not enthusiastic about this novel, I would recommend it as a good book about the complicated nature of relationships.

The writing in this book is really wonderful, and on that basis alone, I recommend it. However, be prepared, for there are time it is really hard to keep reading. It is basically about the unraveling of a marriage, from the point of view of the husband, who just doesn't really understand why things are falling apart, and doesn't understand why he has a terrible relationship with his teenage son. Very subtly he will describe the interactions that he, on the one hand, knows are problematic, but on the other hand cannot see how he could act any differently. The book makes no excuses -- it reveals. Which is why it is a good book. I think it would be a good book club book, where one can discuss with others the dynamics of this family and their pain. I'm glad I read it (I actually listened to it -- it was a very good narration). I think.

Having read 0ne Day and loving it, I was anxious to read this latest novel by David Nicholls. The breezy writing style of this author- at times funny, poignant, and finally sad- made this novel an intriguing read. His characters are well described- I wanted to root for Douglas, understand Albie, and grasp the intricacies of Connie. Each one could be frustrating and unlikable but ultimately real. It was a satisfying enough ending although not the one I thought it may be. Overall, it was a good read.

Low rating as I was shocked to recieve this book in clearly read condition, spine and pages bent. I have it on my kindle and love it so wanted to buy it for a friend (it's a fantastic book, highly recommend!!) So I sent it back and ordered another...the next one arrived in better condition but still clearly second hand. This is not stated anywhere so you would assume you're getting a new book. If this doesnt bother you, get it as the book itself is great, but if it's a gift definitely do not!

A fantastic character analysis and very accurate portrayal of the ups and downs of family life. Funny, intelligent, sad and a real page turner.

Such a great book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I laughed and cried and this book made me smile. It was real, emotional and human, well worth the read!

Wonderful book, so moving and funny at the same time. Great for a holiday reading! After reading "One day" (one of my all-time favourite books) I had high expectations and this one did not disappoint! Really recommend the mini series as well, very well made!

The was a fabulous read.