Review of As Good As Can Be

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Ghuddie
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Review of As Good As Can Be

Post by Ghuddie »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "As Good As Can Be" by William A. Glass.]
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3 out of 4 stars
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Dave Knight, the first son of David Knight Jr and Bobbie Knight, was a troublesome boy and an academic retard. Being born in a military home with a bully of an elder sister, a drunk father, and an ill mother made life a lot difficult for him. Often influenced by the toxic environment he grew up in, he made mischief and caused trouble to others. Notwithstanding, his fate led him through a series of journeys, and he tried to create a good path for himself. He had a couple of bad experiences in school and at the places he worked while seeking to carve a niche and create a good life for himself.

In As Good As Can Be, William A. Glass tells a story that thoroughly examines the nature of the family and how it affects its members. The book embodies the famous saying that 'charity begins at home.' It shows how the fate of the children in a family can be shaped and most times can be determined by the behaviour and training they get from their parents.

I loved that the book exemplified a typical family life filled with the usual sibling fights and rivalries, which made it a lot more relatable. Being one that loves to explore new locations and cultures through the pages of a book, I loved that this book depicted an adventurous voyage around many countries and continents. It displayed the cultures and traditions of these different countries beautifully. More so, it was great to see how the author incorporated the military into the story. He showed a good understanding of the workings and proceedings of the military. Lastly, I appreciated that regardless of the fact that the book seemed to be largely based on military activities, the author intelligently avoided technical terminologies that will bore the reader. He reduced the many concepts in the book to a level the average reader could easily comprehend.

On the other hand, I didn't quite appreciate the length of the book. The book contained some details and conversations I felt were unnecessary; those contributed to its size, making it bulky and monotonous. More so, there were some inconclusive parts in the book that left the reader hanging and confused.

Based on the aforestated points, I would give the book a 3 out of 4 stars rating. I didn't give it a higher rating due to the length of the book, which I consider unnecessary, and some details that made it less interesting. Nonetheless, I did not give it a lower rating because I appreciated the effort of the writer to inculcate family values in the minds of the reader through the beautiful art of storytelling. Also, I couldn't spot spelling or grammatical errors in the book. It was exceptionally well edited.

I recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction mixed with a lot of adventures. Engaged couples may find it handy because they can learn a lesson or two from the story. It can also be of benefit to military men and recruits, as it can help them navigate their military journey. It contains adult content and vulgar language, so it's not suited for children and young teens.

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As Good As Can Be
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Mbenma Esther 080
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Post by Mbenma Esther 080 »

This touches on family relationship and how it affects Dave. Thanks for the review.
Aisha Yakub
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Post by Aisha Yakub »

We draw most of our values from the places and people we hang around with the most. It's nice to know the author made this book seem real and relatable. Great review.
Ronnie Comendador 1
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Post by Ronnie Comendador 1 »

This is very interesting book to read!a historical fiction mixed with a lot of adventures how great it is.. thanks for the nice and amazing review..
Edet Joy
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Post by Edet Joy »

Yes, well deserved rating as I have read the book. God job
Vivian Stones
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Post by Vivian Stones »

This book talks about environment and it's effects on a child's upbringing.Interesting review.
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