What readers think of The Handbook for Lightning Strike Survivors, plus links to write your own review.

Overall I liked this book. Raised by my single mom on the Texas Gulf Coast in the 50's and 60's I immediately identified with Buckley. Reading about Buckley's trials and tribulations growing up and writing his handbook was like seeing a video of my own life. The insertion of excerpts from Buckley's Handbook tended to distract; I skimmed over these in a hurry to get back to the meat of the story. I would like to see more from this obviously talented young author.

This book captures you from the very beginning and does not let go until you finish. I enjoyed the author's writing style - she moved the story along nicely and moved the characters very real and unforgettable. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a good, quick read and it would be a great book club book as there is much to discuss.

The Handbook for Lightning Strike Survivors is a strange book, with odd characters, all damaged in some way and in the end, all connected.

The story ebbs and flows as does the ocean tide, sometimes overwrought with emotion but always compelling the reader along. As a reader, you want to know if and how the lightning-strike survivors and their families survive. The descriptions of Becca’s artwork were exquisitely detailed, enough so that as I turned each page, I expected to see the actual painting. The use of the text for an actual handbook was an excellent method to keep the reader grounded (no pun intended) in reality. A good fast read. But if you’re reading this story outside – keep your eyes out for any lightning!

An enjoyable read with characters some sad and needy, others charming and brave. There are moments of both amusement and grief; a story of strangers, friends and family you will be glad you met. A trip through the south I am pleased to have taken.

Each chapter had an interesting introduction. Sometimes more interesting than the chapter itself. I didn't really relate, much less understand most of the characters. The novel is too long. There are too many lightening damaged people in it, maybe that was MY problem with it. In the beginning of the book it all worked. The last third was nonsense to fill up a prescribed length necessary to submit it. I chose to read this on my computer with the Adobe Digital Editions program. Didn't care for the format. I own a Kindle but was interested in the "newer" way of doing things. I still love my Kindle. But I didn't really like the book.

I am aware that some people love this book. i can't imagine why. I managed to finish the book only because I agreed to review it. The author may have some talent, but she has a lot of work to do.

The plot is complex, to the point of being contrived. Everything else about it is shallow. Characters are sketched without depth. There is little sense of place. Rather than offering descriptions or evoking the feel of a place or person or time, the author simply names a landmark, or a personality or a storm.

I suppose if Nancy Drew is your idea of a good book, have at it.

Additionally, I am deeply offended by the author's glancing references to the Terezin concentration camp, which feels more like a marketing ploy than a plot element.