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The Bus Ride: A Zany Busnapping Adventure
When Devon discovers his car stolen, he must find transportation to get to his destination before the deadline to get what’s rightfully his: the urn containing one-fifth of his deceased momma. He hops on Bus No. 255 and changes the course of the route. As the passengers’ personalities and needs emerge, they go from being strangers to a bonded family within hours as they fight for each other, and themselves… in more ways than one. Funny and sentimental, this story will grab your heart as you cheer everyone on Bus Route No. 255, maybe even the busnapper.
Meet the passengers on Bus No. 255, an unlikely group of people who have no choice but to try to get along and survive when their bus gets busnapped. Meet Devon, who has a deadline he must meet, or risk losing what’s his; Doug, a dreamer of a better life, but first must face a sad truth; Frankie, a life full of loneliness, but unexpectedly becomes a hero; Gloria, a woman who finds validation in the most unexpected place; Autumn, a girl who desires a family, and a sense of belonging; Dave, a man seeking justice and equality, learns to love himself as he is; and the Garcia family, whose family ties brings them to the brink of danger. Follow these passengers as they each fulfill their destinies, together.
Meet the passengers on Bus No. 255, an unlikely group of people who have no choice but to try to get along and survive when their bus gets busnapped. Meet Devon, who has a deadline he must meet, or risk losing what’s his; Doug, a dreamer of a better life, but first must face a sad truth; Frankie, a life full of loneliness, but unexpectedly becomes a hero; Gloria, a woman who finds validation in the most unexpected place; Autumn, a girl who desires a family, and a sense of belonging; Dave, a man seeking justice and equality, learns to love himself as he is; and the Garcia family, whose family ties brings them to the brink of danger. Follow these passengers as they each fulfill their destinies, together.
133 pages, Paperback
Published November 2, 2019
About the author
Joanie Chevalier
14 books121 followersHi! I love to write thrillers, romance-suspense, crime, humor, nonfiction, short stories and anything else that pops into my head. I am the mother of weird children and cute Chihuahuas. I love new readers because I'm a new author, so we can be great friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 18, 2019
The Bus Ride: A Zany Busnapping Adventure is the first book I've read by author Joanie Chevalier. I stumbled upon her blog earlier this year and thought she had a great voice, so I decided to read her next book. This one will be published in January 2020, and I received an early copy as part of a blog tour I am shadowing. It was a delightful read with lots of fun and eye-slanting moments... let's get into the details.
Life throws you curveballs and lemons. You can accept them or push back. Meet a group of people who are debating how to handle the shocks and frustrations recently dropped in their laps. Unfortunately, they all just happen to get on the same bus, and one of them has decided to kidnap the bus. At first, I thought I'd picked up a thriller and suspense novel -- was this going to be a hostage situation? After a few chapters, we realize there's a touch of sarcasm and humor in this escapade, but it really boils down to a dozen unique and appealing characters who just 'go with the flow' of the busnapping.
This novella tells the story in my all-time favorite format; changing perspectives and POVs as chapters alternate. At first, we see a view of everyone who's boarded the bus: the overworked bus driver (his wife is a troll! -- not literally), the angst-ridden teen (she is a pip), the awkward boy (needs some TLC), the flirtatious mother (she confused me!), the stoic spy (there had to be more to him, right?)... and we find out the bus is being kidnapped by a last-minute rider.
When the bus encounters trouble, we begin swapping chapters and learn the backstory. But here's the amazing part... we don't know the names of the passengers, only the nicknames provided by the busnapper. So, when we start reading a new chapter, we're like... "um... which character is this?" Sometimes, Chevalier drops clues right away. Other times, she waits until the very last line of that chapter for us to have our 'aha moment.' How clever!
As a story, it's the first of its kind for me... elements are familiar, but I've never read a busnapping tale before, so that was a big win. The characters are realistic and well-portrayed. The action is interesting, although it jumps around a few times where I had to stop and think about what maybe was left out in the plot in between scenes. It might've been intentional, to let readers figure out the connections. On some, it worked tremendously well. On a few others, I was a little wishy-washy until we saw the results of the action rather than the action itself. I like when authors test out different tones and approaches, so it was a good experience.
I've enjoyed the book a lot. I'll read more by the author. She's taking the book on a blog tour in mid-January, so this is a perfect time to take a deeper dive into the book and maybe read up on all the bloggers who will share their thoughts on the novella. Thanks for entertaining me with this interesting and easy-to-read story of hilarious shenanigans!
Life throws you curveballs and lemons. You can accept them or push back. Meet a group of people who are debating how to handle the shocks and frustrations recently dropped in their laps. Unfortunately, they all just happen to get on the same bus, and one of them has decided to kidnap the bus. At first, I thought I'd picked up a thriller and suspense novel -- was this going to be a hostage situation? After a few chapters, we realize there's a touch of sarcasm and humor in this escapade, but it really boils down to a dozen unique and appealing characters who just 'go with the flow' of the busnapping.
This novella tells the story in my all-time favorite format; changing perspectives and POVs as chapters alternate. At first, we see a view of everyone who's boarded the bus: the overworked bus driver (his wife is a troll! -- not literally), the angst-ridden teen (she is a pip), the awkward boy (needs some TLC), the flirtatious mother (she confused me!), the stoic spy (there had to be more to him, right?)... and we find out the bus is being kidnapped by a last-minute rider.
When the bus encounters trouble, we begin swapping chapters and learn the backstory. But here's the amazing part... we don't know the names of the passengers, only the nicknames provided by the busnapper. So, when we start reading a new chapter, we're like... "um... which character is this?" Sometimes, Chevalier drops clues right away. Other times, she waits until the very last line of that chapter for us to have our 'aha moment.' How clever!
As a story, it's the first of its kind for me... elements are familiar, but I've never read a busnapping tale before, so that was a big win. The characters are realistic and well-portrayed. The action is interesting, although it jumps around a few times where I had to stop and think about what maybe was left out in the plot in between scenes. It might've been intentional, to let readers figure out the connections. On some, it worked tremendously well. On a few others, I was a little wishy-washy until we saw the results of the action rather than the action itself. I like when authors test out different tones and approaches, so it was a good experience.
I've enjoyed the book a lot. I'll read more by the author. She's taking the book on a blog tour in mid-January, so this is a perfect time to take a deeper dive into the book and maybe read up on all the bloggers who will share their thoughts on the novella. Thanks for entertaining me with this interesting and easy-to-read story of hilarious shenanigans!
January 18, 2020
You can read all my review on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
The Bus Ride was a humorous busnapping adventure that revolved around a bus driver, a busnapper and 5 other passenger and a family. It was about unlikely friendship, never stop trying to live better life and what you desire, let other help you, and confronting problem.
Writing was great. Joanie’s storytelling style was captivating that pulled me in characters’ story from the very first page. The Bus Ride was third person narrative from multiple perspective that changed in every chapters. Whole story take place in one day started at early morning with Doug taking his bus through route no. 255 and ending at night with a life changing adventure.
All characters were eccentric, dealing with their only problems, frustrated with life, lonely, and wanted to live their dream. When one of the passenger took over the bus and changed the route, instead of being worried and frightened they just went along with it! I chuckled at their bizarre situation and reaction. I kept thinking what if it was real hijacking, would they react the same way!
It was fun the way they were given their nicknames. The Real-bus driver, The Fake-bus driver, The Lonely Boy, Spyman, Muffintop mama, and The Bold girl. We know most of the characters by their real name and their story earlier while some characters’ names and their stories were revealed later in the book. Even though synopsis has mentioned all the real name it was fun to discover who was who, what they were going through and what role they played in this adventure.
Devon’s car was stolen and he needed to meet the deadline to get what rightfully his and so he faked hijacking the bus. He wanted to show his family he was not loser. When they reach his destination it was so amusing to read how his brothers reacted. At the same time I felt for Devon.
Doug, the real bus driver, who worked overtime to pay bills and meeting his wife’s demands, had anticipated his day a normal and the usual tiring but it unusually turned out to be adventurous and shocking. When Devon took over the bus he saw it as an opportunity to get some sleep he desperately needed. He dreamed a better life but lacked confidence and courage to confront his problems. I loved how his confidence returned with help of others. His insight about not blaming a person for their action at the end was great.
Frankie was 12 years old lonely boy who unexpectedly became hero at the end. His story was most interesting. I felt sad for him. His decision was reckless at the beginning but he made it right by doing right thing.
Dave was mysterious spyman who was on one day leave, sought justice and equality in his department. He didn’t expect the work free leave would turn out adventurous and would help him to prove his worth and accept what he really was.
Gloria was loving and motherly to all passengers. I loved her crossword puzzle hobby. She wanted a family that she found on this trip.
Garcia family was a surprise. When they were first introduced as a family illegally entering in US, I didn’t know how they were related to the bus and in this adventure. I didn’t expect them the way they made their entry. They were most eccentric of all. I laughed at their unique entry and the mayhem it caused and that mama turning into ninja was most hilarious. I liked the way they found their way back once they saved a family member they came for.
Last was Autumn’s story. She was typical foster teenager who struggled to fit in foster family and in school. But she was bold and knew how survive in the world. At the end, she learned to love and found a true family she never had.
I loved the way they all developed at the end. This little, a day’s, adventure changed their life and their view, helped them to live their dream. End was good and the epilogue was most interesting.
Overall, it was fun, entertaining and enjoyable busnapping adventure. I highly recommend this to all readers who love short stories and entertaining travel adventure.
*** Note: I received e-copy this book as a part of blog tour, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Rachel and author. ***
The Bus Ride was a humorous busnapping adventure that revolved around a bus driver, a busnapper and 5 other passenger and a family. It was about unlikely friendship, never stop trying to live better life and what you desire, let other help you, and confronting problem.
Writing was great. Joanie’s storytelling style was captivating that pulled me in characters’ story from the very first page. The Bus Ride was third person narrative from multiple perspective that changed in every chapters. Whole story take place in one day started at early morning with Doug taking his bus through route no. 255 and ending at night with a life changing adventure.
All characters were eccentric, dealing with their only problems, frustrated with life, lonely, and wanted to live their dream. When one of the passenger took over the bus and changed the route, instead of being worried and frightened they just went along with it! I chuckled at their bizarre situation and reaction. I kept thinking what if it was real hijacking, would they react the same way!
It was fun the way they were given their nicknames. The Real-bus driver, The Fake-bus driver, The Lonely Boy, Spyman, Muffintop mama, and The Bold girl. We know most of the characters by their real name and their story earlier while some characters’ names and their stories were revealed later in the book. Even though synopsis has mentioned all the real name it was fun to discover who was who, what they were going through and what role they played in this adventure.
Devon’s car was stolen and he needed to meet the deadline to get what rightfully his and so he faked hijacking the bus. He wanted to show his family he was not loser. When they reach his destination it was so amusing to read how his brothers reacted. At the same time I felt for Devon.
Doug, the real bus driver, who worked overtime to pay bills and meeting his wife’s demands, had anticipated his day a normal and the usual tiring but it unusually turned out to be adventurous and shocking. When Devon took over the bus he saw it as an opportunity to get some sleep he desperately needed. He dreamed a better life but lacked confidence and courage to confront his problems. I loved how his confidence returned with help of others. His insight about not blaming a person for their action at the end was great.
Frankie was 12 years old lonely boy who unexpectedly became hero at the end. His story was most interesting. I felt sad for him. His decision was reckless at the beginning but he made it right by doing right thing.
Dave was mysterious spyman who was on one day leave, sought justice and equality in his department. He didn’t expect the work free leave would turn out adventurous and would help him to prove his worth and accept what he really was.
Gloria was loving and motherly to all passengers. I loved her crossword puzzle hobby. She wanted a family that she found on this trip.
Garcia family was a surprise. When they were first introduced as a family illegally entering in US, I didn’t know how they were related to the bus and in this adventure. I didn’t expect them the way they made their entry. They were most eccentric of all. I laughed at their unique entry and the mayhem it caused and that mama turning into ninja was most hilarious. I liked the way they found their way back once they saved a family member they came for.
Last was Autumn’s story. She was typical foster teenager who struggled to fit in foster family and in school. But she was bold and knew how survive in the world. At the end, she learned to love and found a true family she never had.
I loved the way they all developed at the end. This little, a day’s, adventure changed their life and their view, helped them to live their dream. End was good and the epilogue was most interesting.
Overall, it was fun, entertaining and enjoyable busnapping adventure. I highly recommend this to all readers who love short stories and entertaining travel adventure.
*** Note: I received e-copy this book as a part of blog tour, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Rachel and author. ***
December 8, 2019
“Live the Dream. Never stop living the Dream.”
This happy-go-lucky book ends with that positive quote. What a great way to end this playful novella. Who’d have thought that a bus ticket to Grassburger, Nevada could bring joy to the characters, and to the readers who will grow to love them?
A hodge-podge of regular folk is riding the bus through a boring landscape when one of the passengers takes over the bus. From this unlikely happening, we get to know each of the people on the bus, true “characters” all. Each person is pretty ordinary. Some have had better luck than others, some want to change but don’t know how, some are ready to give up. They will surprise you, and by the end of the story, all of them will be heroes.
Mark Twain famously said, “I wanted to write a short note, but I didn’t have time, so I wrote a long one instead.” This quote applies to this book. As a writer I know how hard it is to craft a short story or novella, because every word must be the right one. This is one of the best novellas I’ve read. Each character is well-developed and engaging. The writing is witty and meaningful. And the metaphors- “Her size 42EE breasts bouncing, resembling Chihuahuas hopping towards a treat.” !!!
The cover is as sunny, positive and “well-drawn” as the book. I would enjoy having the artwork by illustrator Ishika Sharma hanging in my studio.
Treat yourself to some fun- you will be entertained, and you may think about life a bit differently after you read this book. Thanks to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for a review copy. This is my honest review.
This happy-go-lucky book ends with that positive quote. What a great way to end this playful novella. Who’d have thought that a bus ticket to Grassburger, Nevada could bring joy to the characters, and to the readers who will grow to love them?
A hodge-podge of regular folk is riding the bus through a boring landscape when one of the passengers takes over the bus. From this unlikely happening, we get to know each of the people on the bus, true “characters” all. Each person is pretty ordinary. Some have had better luck than others, some want to change but don’t know how, some are ready to give up. They will surprise you, and by the end of the story, all of them will be heroes.
Mark Twain famously said, “I wanted to write a short note, but I didn’t have time, so I wrote a long one instead.” This quote applies to this book. As a writer I know how hard it is to craft a short story or novella, because every word must be the right one. This is one of the best novellas I’ve read. Each character is well-developed and engaging. The writing is witty and meaningful. And the metaphors- “Her size 42EE breasts bouncing, resembling Chihuahuas hopping towards a treat.” !!!
The cover is as sunny, positive and “well-drawn” as the book. I would enjoy having the artwork by illustrator Ishika Sharma hanging in my studio.
Treat yourself to some fun- you will be entertained, and you may think about life a bit differently after you read this book. Thanks to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for a review copy. This is my honest review.
January 16, 2020
"Live the Dream. Never stop living the Dream."
A group of people board the Bus No. 225 going to Grassburger, Nevada. Frustrated with their lives, they were all contemplating how to handle the curveballs life has thrown at them, when one of the passenger gets up and declares that the bus is now hijacked. Not wanting to address the passengers by "Hey you!", he assigns each one a nickname, he himself being the FakeBusDriver. The narrative constantly shifts through characters and time, as we learn about the circumstances that lead each of the passengers (and driver) to board Bus No. 225 that fateful morning.
The POV shifts in every chapter. But it is never revealed straightaway which character's backstory is being told. Sometimes, there are clues from the beginning, pointing towards the character, and other times Chevalier waits until the end of the chapter to reveal the character. I loved this aspect of the storytelling very much.
As the story progresses, this quirky group of people become a family, and fight and stand up for each other, and discover themselves in the process. This book will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings at the same time. Some of the problems the busnapped people aboard the Bus 225 might seem unrealistic, but you'll find yourself rooting for them nonetheless.
I am in love with Chevalier's storytelling and writing style. The characters are well written and realistic. The novella is well paced and the reader is hooked throughout. I read this book in one sitting, unable to put it down. I felt yanked into the lives of the characters and traveled with them on this exciting bus ride that changed both their lives and mine.
"He patted his breast pocket to assure himself he still had the drawing Lil’ Princess had shyly handed to him before they left. It was a colorful drawing of a bright yellow bus with smiling people inside. He grinned as he thought about it. He’d be sure to frame it as soon as he could. It made him feel happy. Doug felt a bond with each one of them. And he missed them all."
Like Doug, our RealBusDriver, I too feel a bond with each of the characters of the book and they'll stay with me for the time to come. Read this book, you'll gain a new perspective on life when you're done.
A group of people board the Bus No. 225 going to Grassburger, Nevada. Frustrated with their lives, they were all contemplating how to handle the curveballs life has thrown at them, when one of the passenger gets up and declares that the bus is now hijacked. Not wanting to address the passengers by "Hey you!", he assigns each one a nickname, he himself being the FakeBusDriver. The narrative constantly shifts through characters and time, as we learn about the circumstances that lead each of the passengers (and driver) to board Bus No. 225 that fateful morning.
The POV shifts in every chapter. But it is never revealed straightaway which character's backstory is being told. Sometimes, there are clues from the beginning, pointing towards the character, and other times Chevalier waits until the end of the chapter to reveal the character. I loved this aspect of the storytelling very much.
As the story progresses, this quirky group of people become a family, and fight and stand up for each other, and discover themselves in the process. This book will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings at the same time. Some of the problems the busnapped people aboard the Bus 225 might seem unrealistic, but you'll find yourself rooting for them nonetheless.
I am in love with Chevalier's storytelling and writing style. The characters are well written and realistic. The novella is well paced and the reader is hooked throughout. I read this book in one sitting, unable to put it down. I felt yanked into the lives of the characters and traveled with them on this exciting bus ride that changed both their lives and mine.
"He patted his breast pocket to assure himself he still had the drawing Lil’ Princess had shyly handed to him before they left. It was a colorful drawing of a bright yellow bus with smiling people inside. He grinned as he thought about it. He’d be sure to frame it as soon as he could. It made him feel happy. Doug felt a bond with each one of them. And he missed them all."
Like Doug, our RealBusDriver, I too feel a bond with each of the characters of the book and they'll stay with me for the time to come. Read this book, you'll gain a new perspective on life when you're done.
December 7, 2019
A group of passengers get on the bus. This is a dead end route to a small town with just over 500 inhabitants and it’s a long old haul. The driver, Doug works all hours God sends and a few more besides to keep his high maintenance wife in the style to which she is accustomed. For him it’s not just about the money but getting way from her for some peace. A few miles into the journey, one of the passengers rushed to the front and makes his demands albeit in a non threatening way. He gives each one of them a nickname and takes over the driving giving Doug some much appreciated snooze time. Each one has their own story and come together to help each other and to make the world a better place. A different read and an interesting one. A novella to enjoy over a coffee or two.
December 3, 2019
I loved this novella which is a comfortable couple of hours read. I didn’t quite know what to expect when the story began. I could picture the whole thing in my head as it unravelled due to the great storytelling.
So, we have a bunch of people, none of them leading perfect lives and during their journey of an initially hijacked bus, things begin to unfold, and we get to find out about their different scenarios along the way.
You find yourself rooting for each and every passenger, or driver, as they face up to their problems along the way. We have a great bunch of crazy characters full of quirks and problems. With some fun bits along the way, this is a perfect read with a few unexpected twists.
So, we have a bunch of people, none of them leading perfect lives and during their journey of an initially hijacked bus, things begin to unfold, and we get to find out about their different scenarios along the way.
You find yourself rooting for each and every passenger, or driver, as they face up to their problems along the way. We have a great bunch of crazy characters full of quirks and problems. With some fun bits along the way, this is a perfect read with a few unexpected twists.
December 6, 2019
What a fun and whacky read! This totally unique and unusual story had me laughing out loud in places! A great quick read, I loved hearing how a whole group of dysfunctional individuals could find a family in each other. The ending was really touching and I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
January 20, 2020
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
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I received a copy as a part of the blog blitz. My review was on January 20, 2020.
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I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this one up and it ended up being a very pleasant surprise! Though it is a short novella at 128 pages, this is a complete story. I became engrossed in the story and wanted to know how it was going to end. You are caught up in every character’s life story and even begin to root for the busnapper. Each distinct character ends up with a unique to them nickname during their situation, and not all characters end up being what they seem!
The Bus Ride is an entertaining and quick read that takes place over a very short time period. Take some time and pick up The Bus Ride and next time you get on a bus you may see your fellow riders in a different light!
~~~~
I received a copy as a part of the blog blitz. My review was on January 20, 2020.
~~~~
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this one up and it ended up being a very pleasant surprise! Though it is a short novella at 128 pages, this is a complete story. I became engrossed in the story and wanted to know how it was going to end. You are caught up in every character’s life story and even begin to root for the busnapper. Each distinct character ends up with a unique to them nickname during their situation, and not all characters end up being what they seem!
The Bus Ride is an entertaining and quick read that takes place over a very short time period. Take some time and pick up The Bus Ride and next time you get on a bus you may see your fellow riders in a different light!
January 25, 2020
Certainly not your usual community transit ride. People in private desperation isolated and desperately alone. Don't read this book at night, because, the great characters and the loyalty of friends not met with, will keep you awake planning to be a better person and smiling. A wonderful trip from here to maybe there. I suggest this book to everyone, especially if you just finished a crime novel full of angst. Read it tonight.
January 11, 2020
What a wonderfully funny, quirky, sometimes sad, often laugh-out-loud novella. Just the idea of someone carrying out a busnapping is enough to make you pick it up, and the promise is fulfilled with the characters the author has created. People from all walks of life, easily relatable, immediately endearing, they add a rich depth to the story.
Each character is given a nickname, and his or her background is slowly revealed as the story develops. What could have been a macabre tale is instead full of emotion, wit, heartache and joy, as the reader is pulled into the characters' lives, travelling alongside them on their journey of self-discovery.
A well-written novella whose characters will remain with you long after you finish reading it. Highly recommend!
Each character is given a nickname, and his or her background is slowly revealed as the story develops. What could have been a macabre tale is instead full of emotion, wit, heartache and joy, as the reader is pulled into the characters' lives, travelling alongside them on their journey of self-discovery.
A well-written novella whose characters will remain with you long after you finish reading it. Highly recommend!
January 19, 2020
I absolutely love discovering new authors and Joanie Chevalier is certainly a new author for me. Having enjoyed reading 'The Bus Ride' as much as I did, I will definitely be reading more of her work in the future. I absolutely loved 'The Bus Ride' but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely loved the cast of characters in this book. In fact I ended up comparing the characters in this book to those who are regular users of the bus that I have to catch. We don't have a car so we rely on the bus to get about. Our bus is known as 'The Geriatric Express' as it is the first bus that the elderly and disabled can use their concessionary pass on. The nickname was first used by a very good friend, who is sadly missed as he died last year. Anyway back to the point. This book just goes to show that you don't know a person's history or story and appearances can be deceptive. I can honestly say that there wasn't one character that I took an instant dislike to. It's true that I favoured some over the others but that's what happens in real life too.
'The Bus Ride' is a novella, which is longer than a short story but not a full length novel. As a result it didn't take me that long to get through this story. I did wonder if perhaps the number of pages would do justice to the story but I needn't have worried. I was drawn into the book from the synopsis and when I started reading, that was it. I couldn't put this book down. 'The Bus Ride' was a delight to read from start to finish. It was one of those books that I wanted to finish but I didn't want to finish. Bookworms will know exactly what I mean by that.
I found 'The Bus Ride' to be really well written. The author certainly knows how to grab your attention from the beginning and she takes you on a journey (pardon the pun) through the lives of people, who wouldn't normally associate with each other. Their only connection is this bus. Through Joanie's writing, I felt that I got a real sense of the story of each and every person. I loved Joanie's storytelling and through her descriptions I felt as though I was a character on that particular bus.
In short, 'The Bus Ride' was a delightful read, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I will definitely be reading more of Joanie's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I absolutely loved the cast of characters in this book. In fact I ended up comparing the characters in this book to those who are regular users of the bus that I have to catch. We don't have a car so we rely on the bus to get about. Our bus is known as 'The Geriatric Express' as it is the first bus that the elderly and disabled can use their concessionary pass on. The nickname was first used by a very good friend, who is sadly missed as he died last year. Anyway back to the point. This book just goes to show that you don't know a person's history or story and appearances can be deceptive. I can honestly say that there wasn't one character that I took an instant dislike to. It's true that I favoured some over the others but that's what happens in real life too.
'The Bus Ride' is a novella, which is longer than a short story but not a full length novel. As a result it didn't take me that long to get through this story. I did wonder if perhaps the number of pages would do justice to the story but I needn't have worried. I was drawn into the book from the synopsis and when I started reading, that was it. I couldn't put this book down. 'The Bus Ride' was a delight to read from start to finish. It was one of those books that I wanted to finish but I didn't want to finish. Bookworms will know exactly what I mean by that.
I found 'The Bus Ride' to be really well written. The author certainly knows how to grab your attention from the beginning and she takes you on a journey (pardon the pun) through the lives of people, who wouldn't normally associate with each other. Their only connection is this bus. Through Joanie's writing, I felt that I got a real sense of the story of each and every person. I loved Joanie's storytelling and through her descriptions I felt as though I was a character on that particular bus.
In short, 'The Bus Ride' was a delightful read, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I will definitely be reading more of Joanie's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
January 21, 2020
And the moral of this story is?
Take your pick. There are several morals in this metaphorical romp down life’s highway. Sometimes we don’t get to chose our traveling companions, and sometimes they turn out to be much more than we ever imagined. Other times, not so much. But in either event, we can never separate the silk purses from among the sow’s ears until we get to know both the both the silk purses and the sow’s ears.
So it is that several unlikely travelers find themselves on Doug’s Greyhound bus each bound for a destination determined by his or her own story. Each has an agenda, and none of the agendas are the same until Devon imposes his agenda on the group and becomes the de facto leader. Doug, who has long ago been mentally and emotionally whipped into a passive role by an abusive wife and professional boredom, surrenders control immediately in favor of escape by taking a nap.
One by one, the stories of each of the passengers are revealed. One by one the others, sometimes individually, sometimes collectively, subtly influence each other by encouraging each other to divert their life paths into positive directions. As that happens, good things begin happening to all of them and all of them end the trip connected in ways they never imagined.
As a reader, I had no idea what to expect from this novella. I expected a dark comedy but never expected one with the depth The Bus Ride possesses. On the surface, it is entertaining in a dazed, crazy sort of way, but as you read the character’s stories and realize that all have wacky histories, are desperate in different ways, and have, through circumstance, been thrown together on life’s highway, the life messages hidden in The Bus Ride begin to emerge.
The Bus Ride is recommended for readers of any genre interested in a far-fetched, fun read, with deep roots.
Take your pick. There are several morals in this metaphorical romp down life’s highway. Sometimes we don’t get to chose our traveling companions, and sometimes they turn out to be much more than we ever imagined. Other times, not so much. But in either event, we can never separate the silk purses from among the sow’s ears until we get to know both the both the silk purses and the sow’s ears.
So it is that several unlikely travelers find themselves on Doug’s Greyhound bus each bound for a destination determined by his or her own story. Each has an agenda, and none of the agendas are the same until Devon imposes his agenda on the group and becomes the de facto leader. Doug, who has long ago been mentally and emotionally whipped into a passive role by an abusive wife and professional boredom, surrenders control immediately in favor of escape by taking a nap.
One by one, the stories of each of the passengers are revealed. One by one the others, sometimes individually, sometimes collectively, subtly influence each other by encouraging each other to divert their life paths into positive directions. As that happens, good things begin happening to all of them and all of them end the trip connected in ways they never imagined.
As a reader, I had no idea what to expect from this novella. I expected a dark comedy but never expected one with the depth The Bus Ride possesses. On the surface, it is entertaining in a dazed, crazy sort of way, but as you read the character’s stories and realize that all have wacky histories, are desperate in different ways, and have, through circumstance, been thrown together on life’s highway, the life messages hidden in The Bus Ride begin to emerge.
The Bus Ride is recommended for readers of any genre interested in a far-fetched, fun read, with deep roots.
January 19, 2020
A "normal" group of varied passengers board a bus for their routine commute to work in a small Nevada town. The bus driver, himself, sees his job as an escape from his "high maintenance" wife. As many of us do, he makes up nicknames and back stories for the people he doesn't really know but sees frequently as he travels through life.
This day, things will be far from usual as the bus is detoured, or "bus~knapped."
Are the passengers terrified or delighted with this more than typical excitement for their day?
Get to know them and how they end up pulling together to solve more than one problem as each chapter is told from an alternative point of view. The reader must figure out who is telling the story.
A quirky tale told by quirky characters, unlike any book I have read before.
I really wonder how this author sleeps with all these voices in her head!
This day, things will be far from usual as the bus is detoured, or "bus~knapped."
Are the passengers terrified or delighted with this more than typical excitement for their day?
Get to know them and how they end up pulling together to solve more than one problem as each chapter is told from an alternative point of view. The reader must figure out who is telling the story.
A quirky tale told by quirky characters, unlike any book I have read before.
I really wonder how this author sleeps with all these voices in her head!
December 27, 2019
What a fabulously, fun and quirky read. One unappreciated over worked bus driver heads to his usual day of work with a bunch of passengers who couldn't be more different if they tried. All facing or not their current situations and realities thrown together. An unlikely and quite frankly scary scenario unfolds in the shape of a bus napping! But all isn't quite as it seems, is it? Now i was totally convinced in the fact that yep this was a thriller/crime story and blood amongst other things was going to be shed. But after reading only a few chapters, a hint of humor and sarcasm i learned that things were not quite that black and white. I loved learning about all the characters and how they had come to be on the bus that day. You can't quite believe some of the situations they find themselves in but they will leave you laughing and cheering them on fiercely. A really unique and well written adventure story that will touch you.
January 17, 2020
The Bus Ride certainly was a zany adventure that packed a lot into a little over 100 pages. For such a short story it was told in a large multiple point of view. It was done well and for a reason, but IMO the story could have been told in a different way and had more depth to the story. Having said that, this was a unique read that did hold my attention throughout and in my experience, telling an involved story in so fewer pages is no easy task and Joanie Chevalier delivered.
January 17, 2020
I chose to read this book after receiving a free e-copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
Doug drives a bus and works a lot of overtime to try to give his greedy wife the lifestyle she demands. When his bus is “busnapped” one day, he doesn’t really mind.
Every person on the bus that day has issues of his or her own. I like how the reader learns about each person as the story unfolds. At the beginning of each chapter, the day and time are listed so that you know if it’s today on the bus or previously – usually yesterday or earlier today. By the end of the book, all of the characters have been developed, and even the busnapper is endearing. I found myself wanting the best for each person.
The bus trip changes the lives of every passenger on the bus. Even though there is some danger and even though the people on the bus have big problems, the story is written in a lighthearted way which made it even more enjoyable. One of my favorite parts is the end when the outcome for each person is told. I definitely recommend The Bus Trip.
Doug drives a bus and works a lot of overtime to try to give his greedy wife the lifestyle she demands. When his bus is “busnapped” one day, he doesn’t really mind.
Every person on the bus that day has issues of his or her own. I like how the reader learns about each person as the story unfolds. At the beginning of each chapter, the day and time are listed so that you know if it’s today on the bus or previously – usually yesterday or earlier today. By the end of the book, all of the characters have been developed, and even the busnapper is endearing. I found myself wanting the best for each person.
The bus trip changes the lives of every passenger on the bus. Even though there is some danger and even though the people on the bus have big problems, the story is written in a lighthearted way which made it even more enjoyable. One of my favorite parts is the end when the outcome for each person is told. I definitely recommend The Bus Trip.
February 21, 2020
An amazing comedy with a warm heart
When I started reading ‘The Bus Ride’ the buns&piping and all the passengers getting a nickname... it was a bit weard, very far from what reality could be I thought. But the more I read, the more everything made sense, the less I cared if it was real or not. In fact, Joanie Chevalier delivered us a masterpiece of storytelling. I realized it is a comedy, a satire in which the author gave all characters heart and soul and the readers a smile on their face.
What an amazing way the author found to bring serious subjects as foster care, loneliness, bad relationships, homelessness, illegal immigration, searching to be yourself, in the storyline while, as the story goes on, you as a reader start to love and respect every character and in the mean time have a laugh and a good time.
For sure, I highly recommend!
When I started reading ‘The Bus Ride’ the buns&piping and all the passengers getting a nickname... it was a bit weard, very far from what reality could be I thought. But the more I read, the more everything made sense, the less I cared if it was real or not. In fact, Joanie Chevalier delivered us a masterpiece of storytelling. I realized it is a comedy, a satire in which the author gave all characters heart and soul and the readers a smile on their face.
What an amazing way the author found to bring serious subjects as foster care, loneliness, bad relationships, homelessness, illegal immigration, searching to be yourself, in the storyline while, as the story goes on, you as a reader start to love and respect every character and in the mean time have a laugh and a good time.
For sure, I highly recommend!
February 10, 2020
One wild ride
Think Rat Race X Speed with all the laughs and heart. I throughly enjoyed this short story. Getting to know each of the characters was a delight. Seeing their lives intertwine was a great way to realize how small our world can become when we open our hearts. Every one has something they are dealing with and we have no idea by just looking at them. I thought of the line from a hymn that says “in the quiet heart is hidden, sorrows that the eye can’t see “ I love the way the passengers became a family by helping each other though their hardest moments. Great read.
Think Rat Race X Speed with all the laughs and heart. I throughly enjoyed this short story. Getting to know each of the characters was a delight. Seeing their lives intertwine was a great way to realize how small our world can become when we open our hearts. Every one has something they are dealing with and we have no idea by just looking at them. I thought of the line from a hymn that says “in the quiet heart is hidden, sorrows that the eye can’t see “ I love the way the passengers became a family by helping each other though their hardest moments. Great read.
March 29, 2020
Reading the blurb on this one I wasn't sure what to expect. At 128 pages I dived in and devoured the story in one sitting. At times it had me laughing out loud and at others a little crestfallen for what would become of the characters.
There is a great action scene, when really all the bus comes together and I guess Devon got lucky with the passengers on this bus! It made for a funny different read and at times became a farce, but it certainly keeps your interest.
A nice lighthearted read with a heartwarming message.
There is a great action scene, when really all the bus comes together and I guess Devon got lucky with the passengers on this bus! It made for a funny different read and at times became a farce, but it certainly keeps your interest.
A nice lighthearted read with a heartwarming message.
January 21, 2020
Best short story ever and I mean ever!
This book was so good from the way she introduce the characters and their back stories to the way it ended and it ended awesomely it even made me want to cry and this was a funny book. If you like zany funny stories where there’s a happy ending this book is for you even if you don’t you should read this book it is so good have no fear this book is awesome! No to the author this was brilliant thank you for the great entertainment!
This book was so good from the way she introduce the characters and their back stories to the way it ended and it ended awesomely it even made me want to cry and this was a funny book. If you like zany funny stories where there’s a happy ending this book is for you even if you don’t you should read this book it is so good have no fear this book is awesome! No to the author this was brilliant thank you for the great entertainment!
February 5, 2020
A rollicking, fun ride!
The Bus Ride: A Zany Busnapping Adventure is chock-full of entertaining, warm-hearted characters. At first a collection of strangers on a bus, each character reveals their true intent and soon the new group of friends are hell-bent on seeing each person succeed. This was such a fun read, and I found myself cheering for the characters as each one changed and grew. Well recommended!
The Bus Ride: A Zany Busnapping Adventure is chock-full of entertaining, warm-hearted characters. At first a collection of strangers on a bus, each character reveals their true intent and soon the new group of friends are hell-bent on seeing each person succeed. This was such a fun read, and I found myself cheering for the characters as each one changed and grew. Well recommended!
January 20, 2020
This book tells the story of a group of people who find themselves on a bus taken over by an apparent kidnapper. As the plot unfolds, we learn more about each of the occupants and why they are on the bus. And of course all is not as it seems.
A fun story.
A fun story.
January 31, 2020
A simple enough premise (kidnapping of a busload of passengers) turns into a fast-moving story full of quirky lovable characters. The author's writing is easy-reading with realistic funny character dialogue and enough twists and turns in the plotline to have kept my interest.
February 24, 2020
This is a super fun read that shows that strangers can become close friends in a short time frame. With a little luck, perseverance, and help from friends everyone can change their circumstances for the better.
Want to Read
January 19, 2020TheFussyLibrarian
January 21, 2020
Busnapped
I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and made me laugh. The characters were delightful. I think it would make a cute movie. Or maybe a sitcom.
I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and made me laugh. The characters were delightful. I think it would make a cute movie. Or maybe a sitcom.
February 17, 2020
Zany? Absolutely...
This was just plain 'a fun read', with a cast of rather eclectic characters and circumstance that does keep one engaged from start to finish.
Certainly recommended.
This was just plain 'a fun read', with a cast of rather eclectic characters and circumstance that does keep one engaged from start to finish.
Certainly recommended.
March 29, 2020
I loved this little book!
Thought the book was interesting and fun. Too bad it was so short. But I read it s few times because it was so full of fun and love.
Thought the book was interesting and fun. Too bad it was so short. But I read it s few times because it was so full of fun and love.
May 9, 2020
Really enjoyed this quick read. Learning all the characters was wonderful.
June 20, 2020
A cute, madcap adventure in Nevada. I enjoyed this novella.
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