Readers' Comments and Reviews of Wobbly Barstool
I loved Jane's characters. I enjoyed all the twists and turns in the plot. I read and reread Wobbly just to
remain close to the characters. Wobbly Barstool is fun to read and you will laugh out loud while reading. Jane, thank you for giving us Wobbly, Tobias, and all your other wonderful characters.
- Jennifer
Wobbly Barstool is not a rickety piece of pub furniture. Wobbly Barstool is an innocent, yet far from simple, young fellow growing up on a 19th century English farm, who spends a number of years faithfully pursuing his love at first sight, the reluctant socialite from London, Prunella Baddonschilde. Wobbly strives to broaden his worldliness, but for this ingenuous young man with rural roots, seeking his true love's hand is of course severely hampered by the young woman's social-climbing mother, who would sooner die than see her daughter marry anyone less than a peer of the realm. (A large cast of other characters also navigate the wending paths of life's vicissitudes.)
Jane Lowy, in her first book, has written a charming, carefully and cleverly crafted, lighthearted yet
powerful Victorian-era literary novel that will both entertain and deeply move its audience. Through her characters she touts the benefits of an amiable, simple life, appreciative of nature, strong friendships, and family connections based on love rather than social ambition. She urges us to work toward a world
of cooperation among people and animals, and even gently promotes vegetarianism.
In a story filled with puzzling mysteries, loyalty, persistence, even danger, Wobbly Barstool gives us a good, old-fashioned life-affirming story, unlike much of the lurid prose passing for literature these days.
- David
Stayed up until 1:30 this morning finishing your novel. An exciting and edifying finish!
- Anne
It's mighty fine writing!
- Liz
It was just like reading Dickens all over again.
- Dorothy
Methinks this is some of the best writing I have ever come across, wot with the
rich language and seamless style. E'vry word has meaning for the story and then
some. The goodness of the majority of characters restores one's faith in
mankind. In summary, a spiffing good read!
- Michael
It's great. Her prose is really quirky and interesting.
- Bernard
I received a gorgeous hardcover edition of Wobbly Barstool as a Christmas
present. (Thanks, Catherine!) Written by a contemporary American author in the
style of a Victorian-era English novel, it reads like a New Age Dickensian tale.
It's a G-rated, wizardless, vampire-free delight featuring complex mysteries and
serious coming of age conflicts. The moral development of the characters and the
hints at social reform are refreshing but not preachy. With 43 short, lively
chapters and convincing cliffhangers, it lends itself to being read over time
like the serial literature of the 19th century. I recommend it to friends who
read with their kids.
- Dawn
Wobbly Barstool is firstly, a beautifully presented book reminiscent of a time
gone by from the cute portraits illustrated at the front to its short chapters
and simple yet elegant colour scheme. The dignified appearance of the book hides
a web of turmoil, of highs and lows written on the pages. The story is complex
and emotive yet skips along light heartedly and almost giddily in the first half
with previews of lurking dangers. It began with tragedy quickly turning to
warmth, then to tragedy and then to warmth again in quick succession and with
different sets of characters but nothing about it was brash or confusing - it
actually felt like a gentle read, complete with sincerity. I appreciated that
the qualities of kindness and trust were emphasized from the start and were the
threads that wove that characters together. The rest of the book continued in
much the same pace with many and varied characters introduced rapidly, their
stories told alternately through the chapters but the tone of the story markedly
changed to something far more serious and revealing.
The main characters were endearing and many were very well spoken with a poetic and
whimsical eloquence. The supporting and background characters were clearly
defined and generally stuck to their typecast throughout. All benefited from
quirky names which added a touch of humour and intrigue. I was impressed that
some of the main characters were vegetarian, a unique element rarely noted in
classic (Victorian) literature or tributes. I've read descriptions of meals and
habits but in regards to personal convictions and lifestyles rarely anything
other than class and gender struggles. Any time plant based meals or
teetotallers were mentioned in other books I've read it was due to poverty and
not preference. This book expanded and expounded on the ethical and clandestine
subjects touched upon in the genre, from highlighting the almost courtesan view
of upper class females of marriageable age to an anti-animal experimentation
stance adeptly inserted into the plot. Universal ethics apply to
all.
From the start it seemed that the story was a mystery, initially
disguised as an armchair mystery, not too thrilling and something nice to read
nestled with a warm beverage of choice but later showed itself to be intense. It
was quite philosophical but cleverly juggled with the underlying family secret
and changing circumstances. The themes of family, friendship and love were
strong throughout as well as the notion of give and take; I didn't quite agree
with the author's presented view of an ideal life, the various forms of love
demonstrated or what I saw as unethical behaviour in the name of morality or
giving on the part of the characters written as the moral ones, which isn't so
problematic when reading fiction but because it's a predominant theme/setting in
the book it might be off putting to some readers. On the whole I was impressed
with the level of high spirits, fortitude, geniality and openness of the main
characters, it is rare to find such a large group of personalities capable of
interacting with others without reservation, superficial first impressions and
able to be happy for each other. Yet all the while there was a mysterious figure
pulling the strings and orchestrating the lives of the main cast; does perceived
happiness and contentment come at such a cost? The other major genre was
romance, which on the whole was fast and neat for most of the characters but
suffered the usual entanglements and difficulties of class difference,
expressing feelings and distance for the major characters. Overall the romance
was very youthful exempting that of the Barstool parents.
The language used was just as elaborate as in classic literature but without the pretension
and stuffy tones that I've often found. Rather, in this case it was nifty and
fun and I read and re-read sentences to ensure that I didn't miss a word. The
only thing I'd mention is the large number of commas which were helpful in
breaking up the wordy dialogue of certain characters but otherwise broke the
rhythm. I thought that they would have been more helpful had I been reading a
play/script.
There was great attention to detail in the book; here are a
few examples: 1) the use of the same name for the publishers in the book and the
publisher of the book - a cute example of the naming nuances in the story. 2)
The observations of London were as relevant to the time period as they are now.
3) Also worth noting is the number of coincidences in the story, which is an
interesting meta-narrative of the aforementioned mysterious figure ("that's Mr
Beggintrade. He manages our affairs" pg 188), the seemingly natural though oft
farfetched coincidences (that fit in with the storytelling style) are really the
product of the author and demonstrate synchronicity mixed with intentional
effort (an underlying theme in the story). An interesting irony and mirror. 4)
'That Which Must Be Kept In Mind' fondly familiar to 'She Who Must Be Obeyed'
(Rumpole) and 'He Who Must Not Be Named' (Harry Potter). 5) The use of living
potted plants at a wedding location. 6) Noting University of London for being
forward thinking - one of its major colleges UCL was one of the first UK
universities to admit women and people of different ethnicities (though sadly in
line with other employers in modern times it wasn't forward thinking when it
came to its pocket, paying women less wages). 6) The electricity
lecture.
I think that the story had all of the elements of a Victorian
dramatic novel and then some. I found much of it heart warming and sweet but at
the same time I couldn't really enjoy it because I thought it better suited to
readers who enjoy the big/extended family setting where many characters are
related and through the various circumstances other than a random meeting of
strangers turning into love; such as tradition, lack of choice, desperation,
'keeping it in the family' etc and follow the usual meet, woo (no matter how
arduous), marry, bear children formula. I also couldn't support one of the main
couples because I found the romance forced though I did believe there to be
genuine respect, affection and gratitude. However I reiterate that the story was
skilfully written and managed, a veritable soap opera (though not as
painstakingly slow) befitting the genre and brought to mind the universal adage
- treat others as you would like to be treated.
I could tell that the author and family handling this book really care about it (much like the family
in the book); I was really impressed with the presentation of the book from the
considered paraphernalia given with the book, none of it pushy, to the careful
packaging (in matching colour to the book). Everything about it implies
marketable quality.
- Dolly
Really enjoyed reading this book. Lots of interesting characters.
- Lisa
This book turned out better than I thought it would. I actually found it a great
read. I just thought it would be good and nothing more but it was better than
that! To me, it had a modern flair while still paying tribute to the classics
and the masters of writing from years gone by. I will definitely be recommending
it to friends.
-Noelle
remain close to the characters. Wobbly Barstool is fun to read and you will laugh out loud while reading. Jane, thank you for giving us Wobbly, Tobias, and all your other wonderful characters.
- Jennifer
Wobbly Barstool is not a rickety piece of pub furniture. Wobbly Barstool is an innocent, yet far from simple, young fellow growing up on a 19th century English farm, who spends a number of years faithfully pursuing his love at first sight, the reluctant socialite from London, Prunella Baddonschilde. Wobbly strives to broaden his worldliness, but for this ingenuous young man with rural roots, seeking his true love's hand is of course severely hampered by the young woman's social-climbing mother, who would sooner die than see her daughter marry anyone less than a peer of the realm. (A large cast of other characters also navigate the wending paths of life's vicissitudes.)
Jane Lowy, in her first book, has written a charming, carefully and cleverly crafted, lighthearted yet
powerful Victorian-era literary novel that will both entertain and deeply move its audience. Through her characters she touts the benefits of an amiable, simple life, appreciative of nature, strong friendships, and family connections based on love rather than social ambition. She urges us to work toward a world
of cooperation among people and animals, and even gently promotes vegetarianism.
In a story filled with puzzling mysteries, loyalty, persistence, even danger, Wobbly Barstool gives us a good, old-fashioned life-affirming story, unlike much of the lurid prose passing for literature these days.
- David
Stayed up until 1:30 this morning finishing your novel. An exciting and edifying finish!
- Anne
It's mighty fine writing!
- Liz
It was just like reading Dickens all over again.
- Dorothy
Methinks this is some of the best writing I have ever come across, wot with the
rich language and seamless style. E'vry word has meaning for the story and then
some. The goodness of the majority of characters restores one's faith in
mankind. In summary, a spiffing good read!
- Michael
It's great. Her prose is really quirky and interesting.
- Bernard
I received a gorgeous hardcover edition of Wobbly Barstool as a Christmas
present. (Thanks, Catherine!) Written by a contemporary American author in the
style of a Victorian-era English novel, it reads like a New Age Dickensian tale.
It's a G-rated, wizardless, vampire-free delight featuring complex mysteries and
serious coming of age conflicts. The moral development of the characters and the
hints at social reform are refreshing but not preachy. With 43 short, lively
chapters and convincing cliffhangers, it lends itself to being read over time
like the serial literature of the 19th century. I recommend it to friends who
read with their kids.
- Dawn
Wobbly Barstool is firstly, a beautifully presented book reminiscent of a time
gone by from the cute portraits illustrated at the front to its short chapters
and simple yet elegant colour scheme. The dignified appearance of the book hides
a web of turmoil, of highs and lows written on the pages. The story is complex
and emotive yet skips along light heartedly and almost giddily in the first half
with previews of lurking dangers. It began with tragedy quickly turning to
warmth, then to tragedy and then to warmth again in quick succession and with
different sets of characters but nothing about it was brash or confusing - it
actually felt like a gentle read, complete with sincerity. I appreciated that
the qualities of kindness and trust were emphasized from the start and were the
threads that wove that characters together. The rest of the book continued in
much the same pace with many and varied characters introduced rapidly, their
stories told alternately through the chapters but the tone of the story markedly
changed to something far more serious and revealing.
The main characters were endearing and many were very well spoken with a poetic and
whimsical eloquence. The supporting and background characters were clearly
defined and generally stuck to their typecast throughout. All benefited from
quirky names which added a touch of humour and intrigue. I was impressed that
some of the main characters were vegetarian, a unique element rarely noted in
classic (Victorian) literature or tributes. I've read descriptions of meals and
habits but in regards to personal convictions and lifestyles rarely anything
other than class and gender struggles. Any time plant based meals or
teetotallers were mentioned in other books I've read it was due to poverty and
not preference. This book expanded and expounded on the ethical and clandestine
subjects touched upon in the genre, from highlighting the almost courtesan view
of upper class females of marriageable age to an anti-animal experimentation
stance adeptly inserted into the plot. Universal ethics apply to
all.
From the start it seemed that the story was a mystery, initially
disguised as an armchair mystery, not too thrilling and something nice to read
nestled with a warm beverage of choice but later showed itself to be intense. It
was quite philosophical but cleverly juggled with the underlying family secret
and changing circumstances. The themes of family, friendship and love were
strong throughout as well as the notion of give and take; I didn't quite agree
with the author's presented view of an ideal life, the various forms of love
demonstrated or what I saw as unethical behaviour in the name of morality or
giving on the part of the characters written as the moral ones, which isn't so
problematic when reading fiction but because it's a predominant theme/setting in
the book it might be off putting to some readers. On the whole I was impressed
with the level of high spirits, fortitude, geniality and openness of the main
characters, it is rare to find such a large group of personalities capable of
interacting with others without reservation, superficial first impressions and
able to be happy for each other. Yet all the while there was a mysterious figure
pulling the strings and orchestrating the lives of the main cast; does perceived
happiness and contentment come at such a cost? The other major genre was
romance, which on the whole was fast and neat for most of the characters but
suffered the usual entanglements and difficulties of class difference,
expressing feelings and distance for the major characters. Overall the romance
was very youthful exempting that of the Barstool parents.
The language used was just as elaborate as in classic literature but without the pretension
and stuffy tones that I've often found. Rather, in this case it was nifty and
fun and I read and re-read sentences to ensure that I didn't miss a word. The
only thing I'd mention is the large number of commas which were helpful in
breaking up the wordy dialogue of certain characters but otherwise broke the
rhythm. I thought that they would have been more helpful had I been reading a
play/script.
There was great attention to detail in the book; here are a
few examples: 1) the use of the same name for the publishers in the book and the
publisher of the book - a cute example of the naming nuances in the story. 2)
The observations of London were as relevant to the time period as they are now.
3) Also worth noting is the number of coincidences in the story, which is an
interesting meta-narrative of the aforementioned mysterious figure ("that's Mr
Beggintrade. He manages our affairs" pg 188), the seemingly natural though oft
farfetched coincidences (that fit in with the storytelling style) are really the
product of the author and demonstrate synchronicity mixed with intentional
effort (an underlying theme in the story). An interesting irony and mirror. 4)
'That Which Must Be Kept In Mind' fondly familiar to 'She Who Must Be Obeyed'
(Rumpole) and 'He Who Must Not Be Named' (Harry Potter). 5) The use of living
potted plants at a wedding location. 6) Noting University of London for being
forward thinking - one of its major colleges UCL was one of the first UK
universities to admit women and people of different ethnicities (though sadly in
line with other employers in modern times it wasn't forward thinking when it
came to its pocket, paying women less wages). 6) The electricity
lecture.
I think that the story had all of the elements of a Victorian
dramatic novel and then some. I found much of it heart warming and sweet but at
the same time I couldn't really enjoy it because I thought it better suited to
readers who enjoy the big/extended family setting where many characters are
related and through the various circumstances other than a random meeting of
strangers turning into love; such as tradition, lack of choice, desperation,
'keeping it in the family' etc and follow the usual meet, woo (no matter how
arduous), marry, bear children formula. I also couldn't support one of the main
couples because I found the romance forced though I did believe there to be
genuine respect, affection and gratitude. However I reiterate that the story was
skilfully written and managed, a veritable soap opera (though not as
painstakingly slow) befitting the genre and brought to mind the universal adage
- treat others as you would like to be treated.
I could tell that the author and family handling this book really care about it (much like the family
in the book); I was really impressed with the presentation of the book from the
considered paraphernalia given with the book, none of it pushy, to the careful
packaging (in matching colour to the book). Everything about it implies
marketable quality.
- Dolly
Really enjoyed reading this book. Lots of interesting characters.
- Lisa
This book turned out better than I thought it would. I actually found it a great
read. I just thought it would be good and nothing more but it was better than
that! To me, it had a modern flair while still paying tribute to the classics
and the masters of writing from years gone by. I will definitely be recommending
it to friends.
-Noelle
