Not to read

by Alejandro Zambra
Not to read cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Essays / Essay Collections
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Paperback • £12.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3195
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781910695630
  • Published: 2018-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Not to Read,' Alejandro Zambra crafts a unique exploration of reading and literature through a series of chronicles and essays. He delves into the works of various authors, from Parra and Levrero to Bolaño and Natalia Ginzburg, offering both critiques and celebrations of literary experiences. Zambra's writing is characterized by its ambiguity and restraint, creating a introspective self-portrait of a reader and writer. The book's title reflects Zambra's decision to step away from the routine of a weekly literary column, embracing instead the pleasure of reading without obligation. This shift allows him to explore a more personal and liberated approach to literature, where certain books can have a profound impact. Through this journey, Zambra's distinctive style emerges, blending literary analysis with personal reflection.

Reviews
Totally Dublin · 2018-06-05
engaging 4.20

The book is a personal and introspective look at the books Zambra keeps and the impact they have had on his life. The reviewer finds the collection to be a blend of nostalgia and literary criticism.

This review highlights how Zambra's collection is not just about the books he has read but also about the personal connections he has with them. The reviewer appreciates the blend of nostalgia and literary criticism, finding it a unique and engaging read. Zambra's ability to weave personal anecdotes with broader literary themes is particularly noteworthy. The collection is seen as a thoughtful exploration of the relationship between reader and text, making it a compelling read for literature enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    This piece about his childhood opens Not to Read, a collection of Zambra's non-fiction that is, boiled down, a look at the books he keeps in his personal library.

    Zambra's writing is both personal and introspective, offering a unique perspective on the books that have shaped his life.

    The collection is a thoughtful exploration of the relationship between reader and text.

Tony's Reading List · 2018-05-17
insightful 4.00

The collection offers a variety of essays that are both thought-provoking and insightful, showcasing Zambra's unique perspective on literature and reading. The essays range in length but maintain a consistent depth of analysis.

This collection is a treasure trove of essays that delve into the intricacies of reading and literature. The reviewer appreciates Zambra's ability to blend personal anecdotes with broader literary themes, making the essays relatable yet intellectually stimulating. Each essay, whether short or long, is crafted with precision and offers a unique insight into Zambra's thoughts on reading and writing. The reviewer finds the collection to be a refreshing take on the subject, highlighting Zambra's distinctive voice and style.

Quick quotes

    The collection consists of a variety of essays, ranging in length from five-hundred words or so to longer pieces stretching to more than fifteen pages.

    Zambra's writing is engaging and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on literature and reading.

    The essays are crafted with precision and offer a unique insight into Zambra's thoughts on reading and writing.

The Hungry Reader · 2018-05-05
thought-provoking 4.50

Zambra's writing engages readers on a deep level, making the collection both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The reviewer finds the essays to be original and thought-provoking.

The reviewer is impressed by Zambra's ability to engage readers on a deep level, making the collection both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The essays are seen as original and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on literature and reading. Zambra's writing style is praised for its ability to connect with readers on a personal level, making the collection a memorable read. The reviewer finds the essays to be a refreshing take on the subject, highlighting Zambra's distinctive voice and style.

Quick quotes

    The thing about Zambra's writing is the high level of engagement he was with his readers, even without meaning to I guess.

    Zambra's essays are original and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on literature and reading.

    The collection is a memorable read, highlighting Zambra's distinctive voice and style.

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