Has anyone read "Ancient Evenings" by Norman Mailer?

[hopein08]

I just got it at a used book sale. The first few pages and the size in general seem daunting. Then I googled it and found many reviews calling the book so-so. So, should I bother?

[Richard D]

1. There's a few passages in it . . .

. . that are amazing. Worth wading though it in mi opinion.

[JitterbugPerfume]

2. I read it several years ago

and as I recall , It was very worth while

[MuseRider]

3. I read it quite a long time ago

and I remember liking it. The beginning was interesting as they went through the ritual of preparing the dead. I like Norman Mailer so no matter how difficult it was to get through some of it I always make it. I say bother, it is interesting.

[La_Fourmi_Rouge]

4. So - So Strange...

I waded through it last spring, only because it was one of the only books in English available at the Rue Belfort bookstore.

I believe Mailer considered it his masterwork - about 21 years in the wtiting. Definitely a difficult read, and I found it to be rather plodding in pace. Be warned that there is constant description of and reference to incest and ritual sex, which were apparently extremely important to the ancients of Egypt.

I am surprised that I, or anyone else, has finished reading it - it is that long and nearly impenetrable.

However, if you are fascinated by ancient Egypt, you may appreciate it...

[hopein08]

5. Ancient Egypt is one of my favorite periods to study...

and I can't say that I've read any fiction about the era, so I guess I'll give it a go.

Thanks for the warning!

[Richardo]

6. It's HORRIBLE

My first Norman Mailer book, and the first book I abandoned. It was years ago, but I think I only made it <100 pages before giving up.

[hopein08]

8. "HORRIBLE", eh?

I guess I'll give it a shot. Seems like one of those either love it or hate it books. But I hate abandoning books!

The only other Mailer book I've tried is "The Executioner's Song" and I think I made it 200 pages before I gave up.

But then again, we beagle lovers usually think alike!!! Your puppy is so adorable!! I have an eight month old beagle.

[Mz Pip]

7. I loved that book

I read it nearly 25 years ago and still remember it. Can't say that about many books.

Mailer manages to create a facinating picture of ancient Egypt where you get to experience the lives of the different levels of the society, from the slaves up to the Pharoah as told through the reincarnations of the main character.

Mz Pip
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