I’d heard countless references to Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy during my lifetime, and I knew it had something of a cult following, but I really didn’t know anything about it until I read it a few weeks ago.Now having read it, the only thing I can really say is:
It stinks. I think it might be the most mind-numbingly stupid, plotless book I have ever read.
It did succeed in getting me to laugh a couple of times, but since it tried to get me to laugh dozens and dozens of times, this doesn’t seem like much of a success either.
I know it’s a popular book, but really, I don’t get its popularity at all. If you’re a Hitchhiker fan, I hope I haven’t offended you, but maybe you can explain to me why it shouldn’t be considered a strong contender for The Worst Book Ever Written?
I liked the book, but then again, I am amused by stupidity. Watch the movie, it's much better.
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteYa, that's the thing…usually I'm amused by stupidity as well. I guess I just kept expecting a plot to eventually develop, and when it didn't I was disappointed. I should have known better.
Maybe I'll give the move a try.
Oh buddy... I might be willing to fight you on this one more than the abortion thing. Haha. Just kidding.
ReplyDeleteI don't know why, but I love those books.
Do you hate Monty Python, too?
I think a number of people thought that HGttG was going to be a revolutionary novel, developing a new genre of literature: satirical, plotless, and a little nihilistic. However, I'm on your side, Luke; I need a plot, or at least need to know that none is coming. It's kind of like going to see Cats thinking it will eventually go somewhere.
ReplyDeleteDavid,
ReplyDeleteHa, I’m not sure I can handle two never-ending internet arguments at the same time. :)
I think Monty Python is funny, but I don’t love it. I prefer it night and day over Hitchhiker though.
At least it was a quick read—I wasn’t in misery for long.
Alex,
ReplyDeleteI’m right with you. If there was a warning on the title page that told me there'd be no plot, I think I could've been better prepared for what lay ahead.