Some of you have probably begun to read The Elephant's Journey - and will know what I'm talking about when I mention Saramago's lack of captilization and run-on sentences, except for an occasional comma. Many reviewers of the book assure us that you get used to it. One referred to "the relaxed sense of informality between author and reader." It's a stream of consciousness communication, I think. I must say I got used to it, very quickly, though I find myself rereading some sentences to make sure I know who is saying what. (No quotation marks.)
That said, I feel compelled to post some criticisms I'm finding about the Kindle version of the book. Not sure whether those who are criticizing it are talking about the author's style - or about the way the Kindle version is set up. Are you planning to read the book on your Kindle? Do you already have it? Would love to know what you think of the following reviews...
~ "This review is NOT about the content of the book. I am sure it is a wonderful story. Unfortunately, the publisher and Amazon provided the buyer such a dismal product that the book is virtually unreadable in Kindle format. There are no paragraphs, little capitalization, and little punctuation. This includes quotes for dialogue. It is impossible to tell when one person stops talking and another starts. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THE KINDLE VERSION OF THIS BOOK."
~ "Don't know who put this book in kindle format, but it's impossible to read: no indentations, no quoatation marks, just one big run-on sentence with commas and an occassional period thrown in. Would like my money back. "
~ "Lacks puncuation, paragraphs, quotation marks, etc., making a good book a difficult read. Why? If I had known I wouldn't have bought it on Kindle. Way too hard to read. "
I wish I could see what the pages look like on the Kindle. Will rely on those of you who have it. If you haven't purchased it in the Kindle version, I'd recommend you check the book out of your Library...it really is a good book!