Anansi Boys
Ratings256
Average rating4
15
Ratings256
Average rating4
When Fat Charlie's dad named something, it stuck. Like calling Fat Charlie "Fat Charlie." Even now, twenty years later, Charlie Nancy can't shake that name, one of the many embarrassing "gifts" his father bestowed -- before he dropped dead on a karaoke stage and ruined Fat Charlie's life.
Mr. Nancy left Fat Charlie things. Things like the tall, good-looking stranger who appears on Charlie's doorstep, who appears to be the brother he never knew. A brother as different from Charlie as night is from day, a brother who's going to show Charlie how to lighten up and have a little fun ... just like Dear Old Dad. And all of a sudden, life starts getting very interesting for Fat Charlie.
Because, you see, Charlie's dad wasn't just any dad. He was Anansi, a trickster god, the spider-god. Anansi is the spirit of rebellion, able to overturn the social order, create wealth out of thin air, and baffle the devil. Some said he could cheat even Death himself.
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2 primary books4 released booksAmerican Gods is a 5-book series with 2 primary works first released in 2001 with contributions by Neil Gaiman.
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Let no one say that Neil Gaiman is not the king of urban fantasy. Certainly, Anansi Boys does nothing to bring his title under dispute; however, as a fan of American Gods, I found myself missing the darker, grittier tone of the latter. Anansi Boys is excellent, but will not meet the expectations of readers looking for American Gods redux.
This was a re-read just because I adore the Lenny Henry audiobook, and BBC just released a radio play based on the book, with all sorts of awesome actors, including Lenny! Wanted to refresh my memory before listening to that.
This was every bit as fun as I remembered. I have so much affection for Charlie, and love how his character develops. But all the characters are delightful, from the mischievous Anansi to the odious Grahame Coats; from the earnest and fun Daisy (Evildoers beware!) to Rosie's mum, who lives on vitaminized water, rye crackers, and spite (but turns out pretty awesome in her own way).
If you've ever enjoyed Brer Rabbit or Bugs Bunny, or if you've ever wondered what your personal theme song was, or if you just love stories, go read this! (Or better yet, let Lenny read it to you.)
I really liked American Gods, but even though this was the same sort of premise, with slight differences, I didn't like this book much at all.
Liked this a lot! Fun, quick read, I loved the African mythology.
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2,097 booksWhen you think back on every book you've ever read, what are some of your favorites? These can be from any time of your life – books that resonated with you as a kid, ones that shaped your personal...
