Beautiful review! I finished Boy's Life last night and was so emotionally moved I am finding comfort in reading and listening to reviews of others who shared the magnificent experience of reading this incredible book. I love McCammon, Swan Song being one of my favorite books ever. I, like you, put off reading Boy's Life because the coming of age - murder mystery description did little for me, and finally decided to read it after seeing so many recommendations for it online. I did not expect to love it as much as I did, it was easily one of the best reading experiences of my life. I wish my mother was alive to read this gem, as she would have devoured it. I cried bittersweet tears upon finishing late last night and found it very hard to unwind and get some sleep. Once I did I had magical dreams.
Awesome book. When I was about 10 I took one of those reading comprehension tests in school and scored at a college level, so my stepdad said that’s it, no more Goosebumps and Captain Underpants for you. Our library was selling heavily used books and they had a copy of Boys Life. He had read it before and gave me that book as well as a few others, I read Boys Life first. Still to this day, 17 years later it’s one of my favorite pieces of fiction. Decided to reread it recently and some how UA-cams algorithm knew and I found your channel. Funny how that happens. Lol, either way, great content and I loved your review!
This is for sure a must-read for Bradbury fans. Very clearly inspired by those Green Town books and as impactful. Can't believe this book isn't in print anymore! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did
This is one of three books that had quite an impact on my life. In high school back in the 90s it was required reading by the teacher, it was torture, as was every book I (was forced) to read and I failed the assignment. Like The Hatchet, I couldn't get into it and questioned how anyone could ever get enjoyment out of reading. I would later become an avid reader, a Constant Reader for sure, and would come back to Boy's Life in the early 00's. It became the greatest book I ever read and it remains in my top 5 favorite book and when I read I had a lot of things going on in life that weren't going too well. Anyway, it's a beautiful story and the emotions you go through reading this... it's just powerful. I hope to one day meet Robert McCammon and almost did not too long ago in Alabama, but a work trip emergency came up and my plans had to change. I have a couple of copies of Boy's Life, I've read it more than once, but would love to have the one I first read signed by him. The book is beat because I used to be quite rough on my books, but this one carries a great deal of sentimental value to it. I only have two other books that are like this, exact copies that I hold dear - Pillars of the Earth & my grandmothers copy of Gone With the Wind, which is like a 70's something version, I think. Forgive the long comment. This is definitely a book I feel everyone should read and I feel like it's one impossible NOT to love, if you give it an honest chance like I did on my second try (but first voluntary attempt 😉).
Thank you for sharing this! I have an entire project I'm doing on this channel where I revisit books I didn't read in high school for the very reason you talked about here. I wanna see what I missed out on! This book though - loved it on the first try
@@anotherbooktubechannel That would be a good idea for a vid. There were more than several books that I later revisited that had such a profound impact on me. In addition to Boy's Life, I'd also say Flowers for Algernon and The Hatchet were among the biggest. To Kill a Mockingbird too. There were so many. But Boy's Life is in it's own category and I'm hungry for another reread. I enjoy hearing other peoples thoughts on it, that's how I found your channel.
@@RRW276 I actually did read and review Flowers for Algernon for this project! I've also revisited Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. Reviews for all of them are up already and I'm trying to determine what book I want to revisit next
I’m on a Robert McCammon binge now after reading Swan Song! I started Boy’s Life today and I’m now at 20% on my kindle already, 5 hours later! It’s great and hilarious at times! *spoiler* That naked man who enters the town hall when they were discussing what they needed to do about the floods just absolutely cracked me up! I almost spilled coffee down my shirt because I was laughing so hard at Demon’s reaction to him. Oh and the wasp scene 😂 Okay, I better stop here and carry on reading. I can’t wait to finish this book but also at the same time, I want to savor every word. Thanks for your spoiler-free review! I’m so happy that I found your channel. Sorry about your dog, I know how it feels and it’s like a hole in your heart that can never be filled. Looking forward to more reviews!
The naked man is such a funny part of the book because every neighborhood has a "that guy" that's like a local cryptid that everyone sees around. I mean, they aren't typically nude but the idea remains lol Definitely savor every word. It's a beautiful book and one that will stay with me forever. Thanks for watching!
@@anotherbooktubechannel oh yes, my neighborhood had a non-naked ‘weirdo’ who used to carry an ugly, weather-beaten briefcase everywhere he went and my friends and I would often wonder what was in it. It looked light from the way he carried it but he would never let it out of his sight so that got all us kids curious about its contents 😂 Anyway, thanks for the reply!
@@kariminalminds ooooh a Briefcase Guy, that's a fun one! Where I am we have Jogs-A-Lot, this really tall guy with shoulder-length straight hair that jogs everywhere, usually carrying a grocery bag. Literally been seeing him for 25 years
@@anotherbooktubechannel oh my I can just picture Jogs-A-Lot wearing a faded green velour tracksuit with scuffed yellowish high-tops. Sorry I have a very vivid imagination 😂
My favourite book and one of the very few books I've reread lots of time. I don't know why Mccammon isn't adapted for the big screen,this would make a magnificent coming of age movie wake up Netflix. Oh and I also cried.
Agreed, but I say 8-10 episode miniseries all the way, each episode covers a vignette from the book. Would be fantastic if done right. Thanks for watching!
@Another Booktube Channel yeah you're right a series would be better and I think netflix would do a good job,same applies to Swan Song. I think if Swan song was released now they'd be all over it. When I read Swan Song I also see a game perhaps from the naughty dog gang. I really enjoy the videos keep em coming.
Oh my first dog's name was Rebel. ❤️ Im super excited to check this out. I loved Swan Song, and i very much enjoy books centered around the wonderfulness and humanity within boys and men. I hope i can find it.
I want to add more mystery/horror to my own channel content. This (and Swan Song) has come up a few times. Great review, and will definitely add to my TBR
You absolutely should, they are both terrific books! And daaaaamn I just checked out your channel, only 8 days and you've already got over 100 views per video. What's your secret? lol
@@anotherbooktubechannel Im extremely humbled and surprised honestly. I think it might just be a bit of luck but I did get a couple shout-outs that I started a channel from larger tubers which helped with the initial pop. Love connecting with fellow booktubers. As my channel hopefully grows If you are ever interested in a buddy-read, let me know! Cheers
@@ChristopherNavoBooks Yeah man, you seem pretty chill, would be happy to do a buddy read some time. I've subscribed and just followed you on IG. Keep in touch!
Great book! I listened to this on Audible several years ago. I don't even remember how I came across it, but after a few minutes, I was hooked! I also read Gone South in the physical book which really held my interest as well. I've already decided, 2024 is the year - I'm going to tackle Swan Song.
Outstanding review! I will be reading this very soon. It sounds much more interesting than the title led me to believe. Like you, I thought it would be too grounded or caught up in the minutiae of "A Boy's Life". Almost like a slice of life or something 😂. Also, I wanted to say that I am very sorry to hear about your dog. He looks like he was happy, dignified, and delightful just from the one photo. Dogs are the absolute best and bring so much joy to our lives. I had to put my boy of twelve years, Colt, down last May. Worst day of my life and it still hurts to think about. I have no doubt I will also be a blubbering mess when I read this. Hopefully there is some catharsis in reading something so painfully close to home. Apologies for the long comment. The video and the similarities of our situation just resonated with me. Thanks for another fantastic recommendation and I wish you all the best. Cheers!
Thank you so much for sharing that with me. I'm so sorry to hear about Colt, it's just the worst feeling in the world. You will absolutely want to keep a box of tissues nearby when you read this. Really glad you are enjoying the channel, thank you for the support. Cheers 🍻
Of course, and thank you for the condolences. It is definitely the worst, but only because of how great they are to begin with. And I am happy to support the channel, even if it is just by viewing, liking, and commenting
I really think it would make a great prestige format TV show, like for FX or AMC. The book is kinda episodic already, so I think the transition would work well
Ive read swan song and it is an amazing book the characters are intersting to say the least . The book has heart but is also very frightening. I was in a punk band about 20 years ago and we all agreed to call our band "Sister Creep". They thirst is also one of my favorite vampire novels in fact its the most unerving book ive read Robert Mcammon out masters Stephen King
@@anotherbooktubechannel do yourself a favor and read it so you to can agree it's one of the best vampire novels ever. I am not joking , that novel kills it completely.
have been watching Teacup/Stinger and well what can you say... Boy's Life would make a great 12 part mini series
I've read it at least 12 times since it came out in 1991, and I find something new every time, AND I tear up at the end every time.
That's lovely. I look forward to growing older rereading this book as well
always tear up when he prays death away from his dog
I want to check this one out.
Beautiful review! I finished Boy's Life last night and was so emotionally moved I am finding comfort in reading and listening to reviews of others who shared the magnificent experience of reading this incredible book. I love McCammon, Swan Song being one of my favorite books ever. I, like you, put off reading Boy's Life because the coming of age - murder mystery description did little for me, and finally decided to read it after seeing so many recommendations for it online. I did not expect to love it as much as I did, it was easily one of the best reading experiences of my life. I wish my mother was alive to read this gem, as she would have devoured it. I cried bittersweet tears upon finishing late last night and found it very hard to unwind and get some sleep. Once I did I had magical dreams.
Thank you for sharing this, it was wonderful. I agree the description of this book doesn't do enough to sell just how unique and special it is.
Awesome book. When I was about 10 I took one of those reading comprehension tests in school and scored at a college level, so my stepdad said that’s it, no more Goosebumps and Captain Underpants for you. Our library was selling heavily used books and they had a copy of Boys Life. He had read it before and gave me that book as well as a few others, I read Boys Life first. Still to this day, 17 years later it’s one of my favorite pieces of fiction. Decided to reread it recently and some how UA-cams algorithm knew and I found your channel. Funny how that happens. Lol, either way, great content and I loved your review!
That's awesome! Glad you found my video 🙂
Never heard of this and your review definitely has me sold. I love those Bradbury novels and this sounds right up my alley.
This is for sure a must-read for Bradbury fans. Very clearly inspired by those Green Town books and as impactful. Can't believe this book isn't in print anymore!
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did
BOY'S LIFE is still in print as a trade paperback. It's also available in ebook and audiobook formats.
This is one of three books that had quite an impact on my life. In high school back in the 90s it was required reading by the teacher, it was torture, as was every book I (was forced) to read and I failed the assignment. Like The Hatchet, I couldn't get into it and questioned how anyone could ever get enjoyment out of reading. I would later become an avid reader, a Constant Reader for sure, and would come back to Boy's Life in the early 00's. It became the greatest book I ever read and it remains in my top 5 favorite book and when I read I had a lot of things going on in life that weren't going too well. Anyway, it's a beautiful story and the emotions you go through reading this... it's just powerful.
I hope to one day meet Robert McCammon and almost did not too long ago in Alabama, but a work trip emergency came up and my plans had to change. I have a couple of copies of Boy's Life, I've read it more than once, but would love to have the one I first read signed by him. The book is beat because I used to be quite rough on my books, but this one carries a great deal of sentimental value to it. I only have two other books that are like this, exact copies that I hold dear - Pillars of the Earth & my grandmothers copy of Gone With the Wind, which is like a 70's something version, I think.
Forgive the long comment. This is definitely a book I feel everyone should read and I feel like it's one impossible NOT to love, if you give it an honest chance like I did on my second try (but first voluntary attempt 😉).
Thank you for sharing this! I have an entire project I'm doing on this channel where I revisit books I didn't read in high school for the very reason you talked about here. I wanna see what I missed out on! This book though - loved it on the first try
@@anotherbooktubechannel That would be a good idea for a vid. There were more than several books that I later revisited that had such a profound impact on me. In addition to Boy's Life, I'd also say Flowers for Algernon and The Hatchet were among the biggest. To Kill a Mockingbird too. There were so many. But Boy's Life is in it's own category and I'm hungry for another reread. I enjoy hearing other peoples thoughts on it, that's how I found your channel.
@@RRW276 I actually did read and review Flowers for Algernon for this project! I've also revisited Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. Reviews for all of them are up already and I'm trying to determine what book I want to revisit next
I’m on a Robert McCammon binge now after reading Swan Song! I started Boy’s Life today and I’m now at 20% on my kindle already, 5 hours later! It’s great and hilarious at times!
*spoiler*
That naked man who enters the town hall when they were discussing what they needed to do about the floods just absolutely cracked me up! I almost spilled coffee down my shirt because I was laughing so hard at Demon’s reaction to him. Oh and the wasp scene 😂 Okay, I better stop here and carry on reading.
I can’t wait to finish this book but also at the same time, I want to savor every word. Thanks for your spoiler-free review! I’m so happy that I found your channel. Sorry about your dog, I know how it feels and it’s like a hole in your heart that can never be filled. Looking forward to more reviews!
The naked man is such a funny part of the book because every neighborhood has a "that guy" that's like a local cryptid that everyone sees around. I mean, they aren't typically nude but the idea remains lol
Definitely savor every word. It's a beautiful book and one that will stay with me forever. Thanks for watching!
@@anotherbooktubechannel oh yes, my neighborhood had a non-naked ‘weirdo’ who used to carry an ugly, weather-beaten briefcase everywhere he went and my friends and I would often wonder what was in it. It looked light from the way he carried it but he would never let it out of his sight so that got all us kids curious about its contents 😂 Anyway, thanks for the reply!
@@kariminalminds ooooh a Briefcase Guy, that's a fun one! Where I am we have Jogs-A-Lot, this really tall guy with shoulder-length straight hair that jogs everywhere, usually carrying a grocery bag. Literally been seeing him for 25 years
@@anotherbooktubechannel oh my I can just picture Jogs-A-Lot wearing a faded green velour tracksuit with scuffed yellowish high-tops. Sorry I have a very vivid imagination 😂
It was an amazing book it’s definitely worth going back for another read.
My favourite book and one of the very few books I've reread lots of time. I don't know why Mccammon isn't adapted for the big screen,this would make a magnificent coming of age movie wake up Netflix. Oh and I also cried.
Agreed, but I say 8-10 episode miniseries all the way, each episode covers a vignette from the book. Would be fantastic if done right.
Thanks for watching!
@Another Booktube Channel yeah you're right a series would be better and I think netflix would do a good job,same applies to Swan Song. I think if Swan song was released now they'd be all over it. When I read Swan Song I also see a game perhaps from the naughty dog gang. I really enjoy the videos keep em coming.
Oh my first dog's name was Rebel. ❤️
Im super excited to check this out. I loved Swan Song, and i very much enjoy books centered around the wonderfulness and humanity within boys and men.
I hope i can find it.
The dog moments are going to wreck your day lol but the book is beautiful, I hope you love it as much as I did!
I want to add more mystery/horror to my own channel content. This (and Swan Song) has come up a few times. Great review, and will definitely add to my TBR
You absolutely should, they are both terrific books!
And daaaaamn I just checked out your channel, only 8 days and you've already got over 100 views per video. What's your secret? lol
@@anotherbooktubechannel Im extremely humbled and surprised honestly. I think it might just be a bit of luck but I did get a couple shout-outs that I started a channel from larger tubers which helped with the initial pop. Love connecting with fellow booktubers. As my channel hopefully grows If you are ever interested in a buddy-read, let me know! Cheers
@@ChristopherNavoBooks Yeah man, you seem pretty chill, would be happy to do a buddy read some time. I've subscribed and just followed you on IG. Keep in touch!
Absolutely. I think I am already following you on IG, but will double check. Happy Reading
Great book! I listened to this on Audible several years ago. I don't even remember how I came across it, but after a few minutes, I was hooked! I also read Gone South in the physical book which really held my interest as well. I've already decided, 2024 is the year - I'm going to tackle Swan Song.
I need to read Gone South! Gonna try it in 2024. And yeeeees Swan Song is incredible!
Outstanding review! I will be reading this very soon. It sounds much more interesting than the title led me to believe. Like you, I thought it would be too grounded or caught up in the minutiae of "A Boy's Life". Almost like a slice of life or something 😂.
Also, I wanted to say that I am very sorry to hear about your dog. He looks like he was happy, dignified, and delightful just from the one photo. Dogs are the absolute best and bring so much joy to our lives. I had to put my boy of twelve years, Colt, down last May. Worst day of my life and it still hurts to think about. I have no doubt I will also be a blubbering mess when I read this. Hopefully there is some catharsis in reading something so painfully close to home.
Apologies for the long comment. The video and the similarities of our situation just resonated with me. Thanks for another fantastic recommendation and I wish you all the best. Cheers!
Thank you so much for sharing that with me. I'm so sorry to hear about Colt, it's just the worst feeling in the world. You will absolutely want to keep a box of tissues nearby when you read this.
Really glad you are enjoying the channel, thank you for the support. Cheers 🍻
Of course, and thank you for the condolences. It is definitely the worst, but only because of how great they are to begin with. And I am happy to support the channel, even if it is just by viewing, liking, and commenting
Loved this book. I listend to it via audible. I really must return to it in a written format. I was hooked.
A terrific book in any format! Glad you enjoyed it
I read this in my high school advanced English class and loved it. Still one of my favorites. I have been hoping it would be made into a movie.
I really think it would make a great prestige format TV show, like for FX or AMC. The book is kinda episodic already, so I think the transition would work well
Awesome book!
Whenever I lose someone in life, I always think of "The lonely traveller has left this world. He will not pass this way again."
Fantastic review. You earned a sub
Thank you!
if you enjoy this book i also recommend "Gone South" by Robert McCammon
Definitely on my reading list!
Ive read swan song and it is an amazing book the characters are intersting to say the least . The book has heart but is also very frightening. I was in a punk band about 20 years ago and we all agreed to call our band "Sister Creep". They thirst is also one of my favorite vampire novels in fact its the most unerving book ive read Robert Mcammon out masters Stephen King
Awesome band name! And I still need to read They Thirst
@@anotherbooktubechannel do yourself a favor and read it so you to can agree it's one of the best vampire novels ever. I am not joking , that novel kills it completely.
great story.
I loved this book and cried also 😢
Glad it wasn't just me. If you don't mind my asking, which parts of it got to you?
The dog (also very personal for me) and the father dying
A Southern American treasure.