Ms. Book Worm: The Great Gatsby

I took advantage of a winter storm to finish my latest book. My book this month is considered a classic. In the literature world a classic is a book that stands the test of time. It's story and message remain relevant to many different generations.

This month I read, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Many of the reviews I read online claim this to be one of F. Scott Fitzgerald's best novels. I can make no such claims. This is the first time I have read his work. I will also be honest with you being on The Road To Oscar I have spent a great deal of time in the movie theater lately and this book is being made into a new movie staring Leonardo DiCaprio. The movie looks good and it made me want to read the book!

The story is set in the pre-depression era of 1920's. The narrator, Nick Carraway, has finished his studies at Yale and moves to Long Island. He moves close to his cousin Daisy and her husband Tom. We soon come to understand that Daisy and Tom have a tumultuous relationship. It is common belief Tom has a string of mistresses and is abusive to his wife.

The other thing that Nick learns quickly after moving in is his neighbor, Jay Gatsby, is well known in the area. Mr. Gatsby's home is the place to be on any given Saturday night. It is the party of all parties. But it becomes clear to Nick that while everyone knows Gatsby; no one really knows who he is.

Despite his aloofness, Gatsby seeks out Nick's friendship. Nick soon learns it is based on a need of Gatsby. Before Gatsby became a wealthy man, he dated and fell in love with a girl. Daisy. Gatsby has a plan to relive the past and reclaim his long ago long, Daisy.

The book is about the excess of the wealthy. I love Nick's perspective. He may come from wealth and privilege but he is grounded. He has an honest sense of what is right and what is wrong. He was skeptical of Gatsby in the beginning but I think he got to know him and really understood who this mystery man is or was. I believe the events of this story change his world.

I am now searching for my next book. My reading list has diminished. Feel free to leave me a message and let me know what you are reading. Or what do you recommend that I read.

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