Introducing… Krystle’s Bookworm Diaries – “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” is the first book review

Book: Where’d You Go, Bernadette

• Author: Maria Semple
• My Rating: 3 out of 5 shrugs

Reading this book was an experience. Usually, reading a book is an effortless, relaxing way to pass the time. This was not the case here. First, this book has seven parts, but zero chapters. As the girl who checks how many pages are left in a chapter to decide whether I should keep going or put a bookmark in it, I was distressed. I had no gauge – but I got over it… mostly. Second, the story is presented through various documents and commentary by a 15-year-old girl, Bee. How did Bee get a hold of private notes or emails from neighbors? (Be patient, Semple answers this question eventually.)

Now, despite my confusion, I continued to read because it’s a witty story. There are funny moments that make you feel a little bad for laughing, there are over the top characters who you can immediately relate to someone you know. It was just plain clever. Eventually, I was enjoying the fact that I was piecing together emails, notes, receipts, etc., to figure out what was going on – just like Bee. The ending was good, a bit open ended, but definitely not out of character for this book.

I told my sister that some of the scenarios and dialogue reminded me of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, or Arrested Development. Then I found out that Maria Semple used to write for Arrested Development! Ultimately, the lack of chapters and the effort it took for me to get past my confusion were too much for me. I won’t go out of my way to recommend this book to anyone, but if you’re thinking about reading it, I won’t stop you either!

Krystle Goodman is a crazy cat lady, who loves to drink exorbitant amounts of coffee, and read a shocking amount of books. She lives in Benton with her husband Josh, her son Roman, and their two cats Roxanne and Abby. When she isn’t reading, you’ll find her cooking, painting, or watching true crime shows.  Watch for Krystle’s book reviews every other Friday.

See more of Krystle’s reviews at www.mysaline.com/krystle.