Official Review: Flamboyan Street by Glenn Curry

[Leen282]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Flamboyan Street" by Glenn Curry.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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It feels like a lifetime ago that I spent a few days in Vieques. I mostly remember a bicycle ride trying, but not succeeding, to avoid potholes on the sandy roads to the beautiful beaches. A second vivid memory is a lot of loudly barking street dogs scaring me every time I went from our guesthouse to the main street. Flamboyan Street by Glenn Curry took me on a trip down memory lane.

The author tells the story of Jim Rollins, a rich man who never had to work for anything. He has a dream, a goal, and moves from Allentown, Pennsylvania, to Vieques to make his dream come true and accomplish his goal. Despite feeling prepared with all the research he did beforehand, nothing goes as planned and expected. Jim has to abandon his dream and return home or adapt to the circumstances, to the Vieques lifestyle and habits. He chooses the second option, and while doing so, he learns he is so much more than just a rich spoiled middle-aged man.

I appreciate the vivid descriptions of the island and its inhabitants. There is hardly any action in the book, perfectly reflecting the laid-back lifestyle. There are intrigue and lots of different opinions and conflicting priorities, as expected from a small community. It is easy to relate to the various characters in the book. I immediately had my likes and dislikes. The descriptions of nature and animal life make me want to go back to Vieques and stay at the guesthouse owned by the author of this book.

If I had to give one point of critique, it would be that the book is rather short. I would have loved to learn more about the community and daily life, see what happens next, how the protagonists continue their activities. Then again, it's probably a strength that the book ends when the story ends. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.

I read the book in hard-copy since there is no e-reader version available. It has been a while since I held an actual book, and it was an enjoyable change to reading on my Kindle. This book is small and light enough to hold with one hand while reading. I can recommend it to anyone who likes to be taken away to an exotic location while reading. It's a perfect afternoon escape for readers who enjoy small-town gossip. There were just a few minor mistakes in the book, not impacting the reading experience.

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Flamboyan Street
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[Stephanie Elizabeth]

I love these type of books about following one's dream--no matter how difficult the journey is. Thanks for the lovely review.

[Elvis Best]

The plot of this one sounds very interesting. Thanks for the insightful review. Good job!

[Dominik_G]

It's so good to read books which aren't all about action and drama. Flamboyan Street sounds just like this. Thank you for your great review! I especially enjoyed the personal touch about your own experiences in Vieques.

[baha Ibrahim]

This book is a quick and easy read. Funny and poignant This book is not to be missed.
Thanks for the review

[Letora]

This does sounds like a great read for someone who wants to learn about a new place, even if it is lacking on the details of the community. I am not one for small town gossip though and prefer for there to be plenty of action in my books to hold my attention.

[Sunchris01]

It feels so fantabolous when reading books which act as an encourage where he decides to follow his dream in every way.

[Honest-reviewer]

Sounds like a great book. And I agree with your point that holding a physical book and reading is joyful in its own way. Thanks for your insightful review.

[Priyanka2304]

I really enjoyed reading your review. The plot sounds interesting to me.

[LinaJan]

Usually, I am into thrill and action. But your review has me feeling like I should pick this one up I do, indeed, like to be taken to nice places! And if the author manages to achieve that, I am always grateful!

Thank you for such an alluring review

[Duaamashrah_22]

This book seems like it was an interesting read, thanks for the review. Will try to read it hopefully

[Wy_Bertram]

Geography aside, I really enjoy stories about characters transforming, especially when they become "better people" although I do enjoy the hero becoming the villain as well. This sounds like a fascinating read. Well done on the review.

[Ellylion]

Seems to be a light and entertaining read I too love the tropical isles' descriptions. Worth reading for sure! Thank you for a great review!

[Teele]

Seems like a motivational read. Thanks for a well-arranged review.

[Gabrielle Sigaki]

I'm more into stories with more action, but the descriptions the author made sound lovely and realistic. I enjoy it when we are able to feel like we are inside the story like that. The plot sounds interesting too, a person that discovers there are more things other than money and wealth. Thanks for the insightful review! Great job.