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A Million Little Pieces

by: James Frey

2003; 448 pages

Rating: 3.5

Yes, I've heard about the controversy surrounding this book, and yes, I read it anyway. I will admit that that dampened my enthusiasm for it, but it didn't completely ruin the whole thing for me either.

If Frey had just admitted from the beginning that he wasn't writing a memoir, but fiction based on some actual events, then it would have been easy to read and thoroughly enjoy the novel. As it was however, I had to keep telling myself to let it go, and consider it as fiction.

I was able to do this. And, actually, while the story would have been better without the scandal, I really appreciated the writing style that Frey used. The use of semi-stream-of-consciousness writing really helped me feel like I was experiencing the story myself.

I can't say that I loved the story. But, I did love the writing and the style. I would recommend that you read "A Million Little Pieces" if you can let go of the thoughts of the scandal, and embrace the writing technique. If you can't do this, then this book isn't for you.