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The Boston Ranter: Slanted Vignettes from a Native New Englander
This autobiographical novella was inspired by my life growing up outside of Boston. Comedic, dramatic and quite revealing; this latest title will truly show why I am the raving lunatic I am today.
120 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 28, 2016
Well, I didn’t see this one coming…or was it going? Layden Robinson has his own sense of style and he runs with it! A little twisted, a little humorous, I have to give him credit for bringing the demographic language to life! Not sure he stood a chance at normalcy once reading about his home life, or his perception of it growing up. There is a roundabout way of relating this tale that seems to bounce around as thoughts come to the author’s head. So long as these sharp curves and swerves aren’t done on an icy road, I think it’s safe to say, many will find a warped sense of humor that is entertaining, yet sometimes sad. All in all, another read for a certain niche who will definitely find it entertaining in a sarcastic kind of way. This one totally lives up to its name, THE BOSTON RANTER. No wonder he had his mouth washed out with soap!
I received this copy from Layden Robinson in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: January 6, 2015
Publisher: Layden Robinson
Genre: Memoirs | Satire
Print Length: 85 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
I received this copy from Layden Robinson in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: January 6, 2015
Publisher: Layden Robinson
Genre: Memoirs | Satire
Print Length: 85 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 30, 2019
4 Stars
The Boston Ranter: Slanted Vignettes From A Native New Englander by Layden Robinson is a crazy, and highly entertaining memoir of the authors life growing up in New England. His anecdotes were at times quite zany and entirely hilarious- but there was also a bit of an emotive quality to his tales- a little vulnerability that came through from this walk down memory lane. We hear of friendships, love, loss, incredibly quirky characters- as well as more of his highs and lows as he saw them.
He brought the New England accent to life, describing it so accurately that I was ‘hearing’ it as I was reading. This definitely added extra personality to the whole book.
This is a very quick, easy and entertaining read. The author’s sense of humour, personality, and creativity certainly shines through- all sprinkled with a light dusting of wit and sarcasm.
The story also has a definite lyrical/poetic quality to it- but with a shot of 151 rum thrown into the mix to give it an extra ‘edge’.
Each chapter is its own little vignette- another ‘episode’ from Mr. Robinson's life. I enjoyed the way they all came together to ‘paint’ a much bigger picture. I think chapter 7 was my favourite of them all. It sums up the author’s humor beautifully.
Thank you, Layden Robinson!
The Boston Ranter: Slanted Vignettes From A Native New Englander by Layden Robinson is a crazy, and highly entertaining memoir of the authors life growing up in New England. His anecdotes were at times quite zany and entirely hilarious- but there was also a bit of an emotive quality to his tales- a little vulnerability that came through from this walk down memory lane. We hear of friendships, love, loss, incredibly quirky characters- as well as more of his highs and lows as he saw them.
He brought the New England accent to life, describing it so accurately that I was ‘hearing’ it as I was reading. This definitely added extra personality to the whole book.
This is a very quick, easy and entertaining read. The author’s sense of humour, personality, and creativity certainly shines through- all sprinkled with a light dusting of wit and sarcasm.
The story also has a definite lyrical/poetic quality to it- but with a shot of 151 rum thrown into the mix to give it an extra ‘edge’.
Each chapter is its own little vignette- another ‘episode’ from Mr. Robinson's life. I enjoyed the way they all came together to ‘paint’ a much bigger picture. I think chapter 7 was my favourite of them all. It sums up the author’s humor beautifully.
Thank you, Layden Robinson!
April 1, 2019
Although I don’t know what the hell is going on half the time with this book I still kind of like it. I like the dialogue and the humour which I get despite me coming from Hull, Yorkshire and not Hull, Massachusets (A place named after my own city, :)). This book is a short chaptered compendium of seemingly short stories about ‘Jawhnie Pahks’ friends, family members and his or their random escapades. The story doesn’t really flow into a perfect constructive narrative but then I don’t really think it’s supposed to. I think folk who are used to their standardised way of reading will see this challenging but, eh, I like different.
March 5, 2016
Read review at: http://thereadingarmchair.blogspot.gr...
I'm always up for a short and quirky read. The number of pages appealed to my first demand, and if a cover can tell us things about the book, then this cover appealed to my second demand. But the first question that comes to mind about The Boston Ranter is whether this is a short story collection or a novella, as the summary promises. Would it be some sketch-like stories or would a central plot exist? Is it the story of the author's life, or is it a work of fiction? To be honest, I was kind of confused. I can understand if the author changed the names of the people he mentioned in the stories, but I never figured out if the incidents he described actually happened.
To answer my first question, this is a short story collection. In fact, there are 37 chapters in this book all dealing with different subjects. But there is no way I could see The Boston Ranter as a novella. I'm not sure if describing those chapters as short stories would be alright. Vignettes is definitely a more fitting word. In each chapter the author shares a certain memory, but most of the times the stories don't lead anywhere.
This leads to my next question: is it fiction or not? There is definitely a very particular point of view and some of the characters appear again and again. The way that the stories are written makes you think that these are things that have actually happened. At least, I hope so. In that way, I could forgive that there is no structure in the stories. Most of the times there is neither a beginning nor an ending.
The writing style is vivid and it actually makes The Boston Ranter an easy book to read. The author tries to bring the particular accent of Massachusetts is his writing, but the result isn't always as pleasant or as funny as it tried to be. There are also some profanities, which don't really bother me, but I know that some readers find disturbing. Lastly, there are smileys in a couple of chapters. I didn't mind, but I couldn't explain either the need for their existence in the text.
The Boston Ranter is indeed a quick and easy read. If you can pass the fact that there isn't a central plot and you don't have any problems with the profanities, then you could give it a try. At least, some of the stories are entertaining.
I'm always up for a short and quirky read. The number of pages appealed to my first demand, and if a cover can tell us things about the book, then this cover appealed to my second demand. But the first question that comes to mind about The Boston Ranter is whether this is a short story collection or a novella, as the summary promises. Would it be some sketch-like stories or would a central plot exist? Is it the story of the author's life, or is it a work of fiction? To be honest, I was kind of confused. I can understand if the author changed the names of the people he mentioned in the stories, but I never figured out if the incidents he described actually happened.
To answer my first question, this is a short story collection. In fact, there are 37 chapters in this book all dealing with different subjects. But there is no way I could see The Boston Ranter as a novella. I'm not sure if describing those chapters as short stories would be alright. Vignettes is definitely a more fitting word. In each chapter the author shares a certain memory, but most of the times the stories don't lead anywhere.
This leads to my next question: is it fiction or not? There is definitely a very particular point of view and some of the characters appear again and again. The way that the stories are written makes you think that these are things that have actually happened. At least, I hope so. In that way, I could forgive that there is no structure in the stories. Most of the times there is neither a beginning nor an ending.
The writing style is vivid and it actually makes The Boston Ranter an easy book to read. The author tries to bring the particular accent of Massachusetts is his writing, but the result isn't always as pleasant or as funny as it tried to be. There are also some profanities, which don't really bother me, but I know that some readers find disturbing. Lastly, there are smileys in a couple of chapters. I didn't mind, but I couldn't explain either the need for their existence in the text.
The Boston Ranter is indeed a quick and easy read. If you can pass the fact that there isn't a central plot and you don't have any problems with the profanities, then you could give it a try. At least, some of the stories are entertaining.
January 16, 2016
The Boston Ranter is a quick, quirky read. While the synopsis from the author mentions that it is autobiographical, the disclaimer at the start of the book states that it is a work of fiction. Your guess is as good as mine, but either way The Boston Ranter is an entertaining read.
Some vignettes are humorous, some are endearing, and some I just didn't get. This collection of vignettes has an inside-joke, locals-only feel to it. I can imagine that "Massholes" (the author's affectionate term for his tribe) will understand and appreciate all the the jokes and colloquialisms.
I loved the parody on how people speak in Massachusetts--the dropped R's are dropped in the spelling so that readers get the full effect. Reading The Boston Ranter felt like people watching in a locals bar while vacationing in Massachusetts.
This ribald, entertaining and sometimes touching read is like a lunch-hour visit to the greater Boston area. Be forewarned that it does contain a lot of questionable language, so if you're easily offended, this book is not for you.
This review was done in conjunction with Book Junkie Reviews. Visit the blog for more recommendations: https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
Some vignettes are humorous, some are endearing, and some I just didn't get. This collection of vignettes has an inside-joke, locals-only feel to it. I can imagine that "Massholes" (the author's affectionate term for his tribe) will understand and appreciate all the the jokes and colloquialisms.
I loved the parody on how people speak in Massachusetts--the dropped R's are dropped in the spelling so that readers get the full effect. Reading The Boston Ranter felt like people watching in a locals bar while vacationing in Massachusetts.
This ribald, entertaining and sometimes touching read is like a lunch-hour visit to the greater Boston area. Be forewarned that it does contain a lot of questionable language, so if you're easily offended, this book is not for you.
This review was done in conjunction with Book Junkie Reviews. Visit the blog for more recommendations: https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
December 11, 2014
Described by the author as 'an autobiographical novella,' it attempts, as he puts it to be a "comedic, dramatic and quite revealing. This latest title will truly explain why I am the raving lunatic I am today."
A 'good read,' fun and at times funny ... an insight into the versatile and creative mind of an author, musician and more while entertaining.
A 'good read,' fun and at times funny ... an insight into the versatile and creative mind of an author, musician and more while entertaining.
April 12, 2018
This is an autobiographical story. The author let's us know what living in Boston is really like. Or was really like. Pain, torment, love and sorrow are only a few of the things filling Johnnies life. Brace yourself. This is unlike anything you've ever read before.
Humorous and honest tales of living in Massachusetts. The author gives us a chance to see inside his life. Well written and in a Massachusetts accent, you'll enjoy this visit. His unique family is quite lively. As the author shares with us, it's hard not to run down our own list of relatives. We all have one or more relatives like the authors. This book is intense and moves quickly. You'll be surprised at what you learn.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because it's easier to read if you ~Copy of book provided by author and I voluntarily reviewed it.
Humorous and honest tales of living in Massachusetts. The author gives us a chance to see inside his life. Well written and in a Massachusetts accent, you'll enjoy this visit. His unique family is quite lively. As the author shares with us, it's hard not to run down our own list of relatives. We all have one or more relatives like the authors. This book is intense and moves quickly. You'll be surprised at what you learn.
I didn't find any issues.
I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because it's easier to read if you ~Copy of book provided by author and I voluntarily reviewed it.
September 10, 2019
This was a fun book to read. My mother’s family is from Massachusetts, north of Boston. Our family traveled a bit (military) and then lived in New Hampshire, so were completely different from our MA relatives. Reading this book brought me into some of their lives—not as many alcoholics and drug users, but plenty enough. And the stories about the townies are universal. The book is a quick and delightful read. I hope Robinson shares more of his life/worldviews in the future.
April 20, 2018
This short book recaps the memories about growing up and living near Boston. They range from serious and tear worthy to downright hilarious!
Full Review On YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/69LiKbrMkYs
It's a roller coaster of emotion that I highly recommend.
Full Review On YouTube Here: https://youtu.be/69LiKbrMkYs
It's a roller coaster of emotion that I highly recommend.
February 27, 2016
I have to admit, when I started reading this book, the profanities and expletives had me almost stopping midway. I had an urge to write back to Laydon stating my inability in reading and reviewing. But I didn't. The sole reason was a book by an Indian author where words from a regional dialect were generously used. Every culture, every place has its own unique language and dialect. I realized this when I started reading the Boston Ranter's rantings yet again.
The story is a fictional memoir. Hence, the vignettes are sketches from a life set in Massachusetts. As I kept reading, I realized each segment to be a reflection from the protagonist's life.
The language used, is definitely not everybody's cup of tea. But the narrative is humourous. Laydon's vignettes give a view of his zanny life. And yes, due credit is to be given to him for sticking to the local flavour of the region to which he belongs.
To sum up, the book is for those who can look beyond the shocking language and discover a whole new culture.
P.S - The vignettes are worth reading at least once because the author has projected a new world as it is.
The story is a fictional memoir. Hence, the vignettes are sketches from a life set in Massachusetts. As I kept reading, I realized each segment to be a reflection from the protagonist's life.
The language used, is definitely not everybody's cup of tea. But the narrative is humourous. Laydon's vignettes give a view of his zanny life. And yes, due credit is to be given to him for sticking to the local flavour of the region to which he belongs.
To sum up, the book is for those who can look beyond the shocking language and discover a whole new culture.
P.S - The vignettes are worth reading at least once because the author has projected a new world as it is.
August 25, 2015
Going into this book, I knew it was going to be an interesting experience! Look at the cover, that says, well, umm different? In the synopsis, the author says this will explain why he is the raving lunatic he is today.
Well, I have a bit, okay quite a bit of a warped sense of humor so thought it would be a fun read. And it definitely was! I'm not from Massachusetts, but have been there, know people from there and as the author writes, I could hear his words with a Massachusetts accent.
He explains in short bits his life experiences and I found it to be an entertaining book. Short enough to read in one sitting. I'm not offended by bad language but if you are, you might want to pass. Fun read that I would recommend!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Layden!
Well, I have a bit, okay quite a bit of a warped sense of humor so thought it would be a fun read. And it definitely was! I'm not from Massachusetts, but have been there, know people from there and as the author writes, I could hear his words with a Massachusetts accent.
He explains in short bits his life experiences and I found it to be an entertaining book. Short enough to read in one sitting. I'm not offended by bad language but if you are, you might want to pass. Fun read that I would recommend!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Layden!
October 12, 2016
I received this novella for free in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not fond of fantasy books, and I guess I should have asked the author about the genre before agreeing to read it. Having said that, the author is on to something.
I never understood who the main character was, or what the story was about. It appears written in free flow, without a plan, plot, objective, perhaps after the author had downed a couple of shots of tequila. It reads like stream of consciousness rambling.
But, the writing is poetic and pretty, and obviously the author has a vivid fantasy life. Given I'm not the target audience, I can only speculate on what the author aims to do. However, I do believe that with some training, editing and "reigning in," the author can become really good.
I'm not fond of fantasy books, and I guess I should have asked the author about the genre before agreeing to read it. Having said that, the author is on to something.
I never understood who the main character was, or what the story was about. It appears written in free flow, without a plan, plot, objective, perhaps after the author had downed a couple of shots of tequila. It reads like stream of consciousness rambling.
But, the writing is poetic and pretty, and obviously the author has a vivid fantasy life. Given I'm not the target audience, I can only speculate on what the author aims to do. However, I do believe that with some training, editing and "reigning in," the author can become really good.
March 25, 2016
The Boston Ranter contains short stories, mostly flash fiction, written in a stream-of-consciousness humorous style about growing up and living in blue collar Massachusetts. There are a few detours into magical realism and science fiction, but the stories are mostly written as fiction or creative nonfiction. Sprinkled with swear words and drug references, often written with a nod to the Boston vernacular ("h"s instead of "r"s) it reads like the stories you'd hear sitting down at a bar to drink a pint with a friend.
May 4, 2016
A lot can be said about this book but the first thing that pops into mind is its Fuhkin Brilliant. As soon as I finish the last page I was ready to start the madness over again. It reminds me of a movie from my childhood called "kids" but 1,000 times better. You have to read this you won't be able to stop, the birds told me so. This is definitely a book I'm going to reread. it flashed me back to my punk rock a days of youth rebellion drugs and girls. You have to read this book you're doing a disservice to yourself if you don't.
February 2, 2015
If you're from Boston...
...if you R from central MA, or anywhere east of central MA, please read this story... I'm a Worcester girl, born & bread, and this is a funny, cute, sad, & ultimately happy story about growing up where we grew up...hey, even if you're not a MASSHOLE, read it anyway...trust me, you won't regret it!!
...if you R from central MA, or anywhere east of central MA, please read this story... I'm a Worcester girl, born & bread, and this is a funny, cute, sad, & ultimately happy story about growing up where we grew up...hey, even if you're not a MASSHOLE, read it anyway...trust me, you won't regret it!!
February 9, 2016
The Boston Ranter is an autobiographical novella of the writer of this novella Layden Robinson. I have enjoyed reading this. It was a fun read just what is needed on a very drab February day. Very happy to recommend this perfect to read on your lunch hour.
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