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By: CHCH 171
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2026-03-31 15:27:31 |
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Generated diverse discussion. |
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By: NELS 048
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2026-03-18 12:07:53 |
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Enjoyed by everyone for its combination of fact and fiction, the different characters and the stories, often with a surprise twist. |
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By: HAMIL 007
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2025-11-27 09:04:18 |
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Divided opinion on this book - it's a lockdown novel, with its structure reflective of Bocaccio's Decameron (The Deck), and there's a hint of post-modern deconstruction with the author stepping into the book in the prologue and speculating about the meaning of fiction in a time of plague. The writing is excellent, inventive and surprising. Some members disliked the narrative structure, finding it disjointed, while others thought it central, conveying the individuality and history of characters set against the looming pandemic catastrophe. In all, an interesting and worthwhile book. |
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By: WELL 001
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2025-10-01 15:01:09 |
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Most of us enjoyed Fiona Farrell's clever writing. We thought the construction and themes of the novel showed great promise, but were all to some extent disappointed by the uneven fictional stories. We thought that the questions in the notes were very good. Pertinent and interesting. |
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By: AUCK 014
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2025-07-15 11:00:52 |
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Mixed reaction. While the writing is intelligent and lyrical, most found it difficult to engage with the characters. The narrative arc was a bit confusing and ultimately did not seem to conclude in a manner that satisfied all the readers. |
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By: TEPUK 006
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2025-04-30 10:21:17 |
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Some enjoyed. Some not. Beautifully written, especially the descriptions. However the story was quite forgettable. |
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By: CHCH 136
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2025-03-19 13:07:23 |
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Really enjoyed 'The Frame' parts of the book. The stories were interesting but preferred the facts. Did think the story device worked well though. We would like another Fiona Farrell. |
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By: WAIUK 001
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2025-03-06 10:17:20 |
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Mixed reaction from group. From not being able to get into the story, to absolutely loving it! Fact or fiction, made for an interesting and lively discussion. Cleverly written. Reading our own history. |
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By: AUCK 210
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2025-02-24 13:38:42 |
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Lively and passionate discussions and reminiscing of Covid outbreaks and lockdowns. This book was found to be much more readable, and the characters more rounded and believable than the author's other book that we read last year, 'Book Book'. |
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By: WANAK 016
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2025-02-24 13:35:59 |
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Beautiful writing, and shows Farrell's huge knowledge of so many aspects of life. |
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By: QUEEN 015
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2025-01-16 14:51:31 |
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A varied reaction to this one. We thought the factual background framing was a bit unnecessary - too close for comfort. Enjoyed the storytelling. |
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By: DUNED 001
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2024-12-05 09:53:05 |
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Very well-written. Relevant. We enjoyed the format linking the Covid pandemic to the plague and the structure of 'The Decameron'. We also thought the author's presence throughout was very well-written. |
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By: OXF 002
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2024-10-10 09:22:22 |
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Most people loved 'The Deck' and, as usual, a fascinating discussion ensued. Two of us have already decided to buy copies of the book as Christmas presents for friends. |
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By: DUNED 100
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2024-09-24 11:49:56 |
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Our group thoroughly enjoyed this book - especially the beautiful writing. |
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By: AUCK 027
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2024-03-04 11:34:30 |
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Full of imagination; a rewarding journey through the pages. |
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