The Slummer

by Geoffrey Simpson
The Slummer cover
Good Books rating 3.62
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £5.00
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Technical
  • ID: 5574
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-31
  • ISBN: 9783982280103
  • Publisher: Barkingboxer Press
  • Published: 2021-02-07
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Slummer is a gripping tale of resilience and defiance. The protagonist finds himself in a place where he is unwelcome, yet his unwavering determination keeps him going. This story delves into the depths of human endurance and the unyielding spirit that drives one to push beyond limits. The narrative is a powerful exploration of the human condition, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of an individual who refuses to give up. With vivid descriptions and intense emotional depth, The Slummer captures the essence of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Reviews
Indigo · 2025-10-29
mixed 2.50

The story is average and somewhat repetitive, but the ending makes it worth the read. It's a book that has its moments and leaves a lasting impression.

The reviewer found the story to be average and repetitive at times, but they believe the ending redeems the book. They mention that the story has its moments and leaves a lasting impression, making it a worthwhile read despite its flaws. The reviewer appreciates the unique aspects of the narrative and the impact it has, even if the journey to the end is not consistently engaging.

Quick quotes

    Story was average and got a bit repetitive

    The ending made it worth the read

    Helpful?

goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
engaging 4.50

The book combines two historical narratives: the planning of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and the crimes of H.H. Holmes, a serial killer. The reviewer praises the author's ability to blend history and entertainment, creating a dynamic and engaging read.

The book is a fascinating blend of history and true crime, focusing on two distinct but interconnected stories. The first narrative details the planning and execution of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, highlighting the architectural achievements and quirky exhibits. The second narrative follows the chilling story of H.H. Holmes, a serial killer who operated during the same period. The reviewer appreciates how the author, Erik Larson, skillfully weaves these two stories together, using dramatic techniques like foreshadowing to create a compelling and haunting read. The book is praised for its lively and engaging style, making historical events and figures come alive.

Quick quotes

    Mr. Larson likes to embroider the past that way. So he relentlessly fuses history and entertainment to give this nonfiction book the dramatic effect of a novel, complete with abundant cross-cutting and foreshadowing.

    As the book illustrates, this historical moment was ideal for the man calling himself H. H. Holmes, in honor of Sherlock.

    The book's other path follows a prototypical American serial killer whose fictional counterparts are by now ubiquitous.

barnesandnoble.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
thought-provoking 3.50

The Slummer offers a vivid and immersive exploration of poverty and social issues, though some readers may find the narrative heavy-handed and the characters one-dimensional.

The Slummer is a powerful and thought-provoking book that delves deep into the lives of those living in poverty. The author's vivid descriptions and detailed accounts create a stark and unforgettable portrait of a world often overlooked. However, the narrative can feel heavy-handed at times, and some characters may come across as one-dimensional. Despite these flaws, the book's message is compelling and leaves a lasting impact. They appreciated the book's honesty and the important issues it raises, but wished for a more nuanced approach to the storytelling.

Quick quotes

    The Slummer is a powerful and thought-provoking book

    The author's vivid descriptions and detailed accounts create a stark and unforgettable portrait

    Despite these flaws, the book's message is compelling and leaves a lasting impact.

Waterstones · 2021-02-07
great 4.00

This book is a must-read for runners, capturing the essence of the running experience in a way that resonates deeply. The story is compelling and hard to put down.

The reviewer found this book to be a captivating read, especially for those who enjoy running. They highlight how the narrative perfectly encapsulates the runner's mindset and experiences. The story is described as so engaging that it's difficult to put down, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever laced up their running shoes. Even for non-runners, the story is praised for its wonderful storytelling and relatable themes.

Quick quotes

    A great read that you can't put down

    If you're a runner or ever have been, this is a must-read

    If you're not, it's still a wonderful story

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