Initially, I didn't think the critics could possibly be right. I mean, come on, a 274 page book that takes place in 1 day during a football game? How could THAT hold interest? The only reason I decided to give this book a chance is because one of my favorite film makers is, in fact, making a movie out of this book.
Okay, let's go back a little.
I read a review that INSISTED this book was great. So I put it on my Nook Wishlist. I don't know how much time passed, but I saw the book was marked down to a mere $1.99, so heck, I sure couldn't go wrong with that price. So I downloaded it. But it remained unread for many months - until I learned that Ang Lee's next project would be based on this book. So I finally got myself to read it.
And I'm glad I did so. It IS a great book. Great prose, great writing, memorable characters. A really great read. I can only hope the movie will be anywhere as good. And I WILL be reading more Ben Fountain from now on. HIGHLY recommended.