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Syrup
Scat is young, confused, underemployed, and in Los Angeles. So when he comes up with the hottest new soda ever, he's sure he'll retire as the next overnight sensation. But in the treacherous waters of corporate America there is no sure thing - and suddenly Scat has to not only save his idea but his yet-to-be-realised career. With the help of scarily beautiful and brainy 6 - who has all the angles Scat so desperately desires - he sets out on a mission to reclaim the fame and fortune that, time and again, elude him. This brilliant debut is a hilarious send-up of celebrity, sexual politics, nd the legnths to which a young man will go to get ahead and get a date. (From cover)
294 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 1999
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 391 reviews
April 25, 2013
A scathing satire of the marketing and film industry that is more generic and stupid than biting and hilarious.
Syrup is the debut novel from Max Barry published in 1999 and made in to a feature movie in 2013. Scat is a young, hip, marketing graduate who has a million dollar idea stolen from him by his best friend, an event which catapults him in to a game of cat and mouse one-upmanship with the help of sexy Coca Cola executive 6. It has been marketed as a brilliant send up of celebrity, sexual politics and the lengths this generation of young people are willing to go to to get ahead in their career.
What you actually get is a light and fluffy read that Ben Elton might have written in his spare time and considered beneath his intellect to actually publish. Max Barry comes across as trying hard to be a clever and witty version of Bret Easton Ellis, Jay McInerney or Douglas Coupland except his work has none of the substance, style or class you might expect from them at their worst let alone their best. His characters are flat and uninteresting caricatures of people and beyond the surface joke of "hey isn't the marketing industry stupid and terrible" they have nothing to say about anything.
The very best thing about this book is that it was a very quick read, and once you get past your natural inclination to abandon ship at regular intervals it's an easy read. In a lot of instances that might be considered a compliment but in this case it is because there is no depth and nothing to actually bother your mind beyond papercuts.
Syrup is the debut novel from Max Barry published in 1999 and made in to a feature movie in 2013. Scat is a young, hip, marketing graduate who has a million dollar idea stolen from him by his best friend, an event which catapults him in to a game of cat and mouse one-upmanship with the help of sexy Coca Cola executive 6. It has been marketed as a brilliant send up of celebrity, sexual politics and the lengths this generation of young people are willing to go to to get ahead in their career.
What you actually get is a light and fluffy read that Ben Elton might have written in his spare time and considered beneath his intellect to actually publish. Max Barry comes across as trying hard to be a clever and witty version of Bret Easton Ellis, Jay McInerney or Douglas Coupland except his work has none of the substance, style or class you might expect from them at their worst let alone their best. His characters are flat and uninteresting caricatures of people and beyond the surface joke of "hey isn't the marketing industry stupid and terrible" they have nothing to say about anything.
The very best thing about this book is that it was a very quick read, and once you get past your natural inclination to abandon ship at regular intervals it's an easy read. In a lot of instances that might be considered a compliment but in this case it is because there is no depth and nothing to actually bother your mind beyond papercuts.
August 28, 2013
I started reading Syrup last night and, after thirty minutes, I had to tear myself away. I wanted an early night. Today, all the STUFF I needed that early night for sat untended as I settled into a cosy corner of the couch and finished the entire book. I took one break for food.
Luckily, at three hundred odd pages, Syrup is not a long book. In fact, it’s just the right length (for an indulgent morning on the couch), which is refreshing. I’m all for reading an epic trilogy, but sometimes you just need to get to the end of a story to see what’s happening and, without cheating and flipping to the last page, the only way is to forsake life and read.
Syrup is the tale of a rather engaging young man from Iowa who lands in California and dreams of making it big. He wants to be famous and he actually has the wherewithal to achieve his dream; but first, he has to survive being utterly squashed by conniving and ruthless denizens of Corporate America.
Aside from Scat himself, what I loved about this novel was the writing. It grabbed me from the very first page. It felt sophisticated and clever, but not inaccessible. Scat’s ‘voice’ is extremely clear and very personable. Regardless of the author’s age at the time of writing, Scat felt 23. I really enjoyed the way the story was presented too, the varying chapter lengths and the way the story was broken up by exposition in the guise of chapter titles. The little lessons on marketing were not at all distracting and, combined with the typography, helped define the message of the book: perception versus reality. The story was funny, but not hilarious. I don’t think it needed to be. Scat could laugh at himself and the author could also laugh at his creation, which kept the novel grounded and lent a feeling of realism, despite the Hollywood-like circus unraveling from page to page.
I found the ending very satisfying. In fact, one of my favourite lines in the book comes close to the end. Sneaky Pete asks Scat, “Haven’t you learned anything?” Regardless of whether Scat has or not, when Sneaky Pete asked this question, I had one of those goofy grins on my face. You’ll have to read the book yourself to find out why.
I picked up this novel in order to read it before the movie comes out. Having read it, I cannot wait to see how the story unfolds on the big screen. I am a fan of Kellan Lutz and, while I would like to see him in the role of the endearing young Scat, I am equally eager to see him play someone sneaky. I am also eager to hear author Maxx Barry talk about the film and to read more of his novels.
Luckily, at three hundred odd pages, Syrup is not a long book. In fact, it’s just the right length (for an indulgent morning on the couch), which is refreshing. I’m all for reading an epic trilogy, but sometimes you just need to get to the end of a story to see what’s happening and, without cheating and flipping to the last page, the only way is to forsake life and read.
Syrup is the tale of a rather engaging young man from Iowa who lands in California and dreams of making it big. He wants to be famous and he actually has the wherewithal to achieve his dream; but first, he has to survive being utterly squashed by conniving and ruthless denizens of Corporate America.
Aside from Scat himself, what I loved about this novel was the writing. It grabbed me from the very first page. It felt sophisticated and clever, but not inaccessible. Scat’s ‘voice’ is extremely clear and very personable. Regardless of the author’s age at the time of writing, Scat felt 23. I really enjoyed the way the story was presented too, the varying chapter lengths and the way the story was broken up by exposition in the guise of chapter titles. The little lessons on marketing were not at all distracting and, combined with the typography, helped define the message of the book: perception versus reality. The story was funny, but not hilarious. I don’t think it needed to be. Scat could laugh at himself and the author could also laugh at his creation, which kept the novel grounded and lent a feeling of realism, despite the Hollywood-like circus unraveling from page to page.
I found the ending very satisfying. In fact, one of my favourite lines in the book comes close to the end. Sneaky Pete asks Scat, “Haven’t you learned anything?” Regardless of whether Scat has or not, when Sneaky Pete asked this question, I had one of those goofy grins on my face. You’ll have to read the book yourself to find out why.
I picked up this novel in order to read it before the movie comes out. Having read it, I cannot wait to see how the story unfolds on the big screen. I am a fan of Kellan Lutz and, while I would like to see him in the role of the endearing young Scat, I am equally eager to see him play someone sneaky. I am also eager to hear author Maxx Barry talk about the film and to read more of his novels.
December 9, 2012
I don't know if it's the fact that this book is too naive for me or I just missed out on how it's supposed to be "sharp" and "sarcastically funny", but either way I thought this book was pretty dumb. As a previous reviewer commented, "I like reading stories about somewhat realistic people doing somewhat realistic things". I stopped falling for the lame hype of downtown LA and the corporate world a long time ago, and Syrup doesn't even do the glittering, star-studded streets justice in this novel. The characters are extremely under-developed and unmotivated. In fact, they aren't even likeable or unlikeable - they just exist. The plot is completely unstructured, the only benefit being that you never know what's going to happen next. The downside being that what happens is usually stupid, unrealistic and uninteresting. The writing is incredibly juvenile, and conversations are dull. At least the formatting of the chapters and scenes is cool, and the marketing case studies cropping up all over the place are a nice touch. But overall, this book really lacked in substance.
Read
July 24, 2025random book i found on my parents’ bookshelf, previously owned by my dad’s friend. my mom said she liked it because she related to it, as a person in marketing. after reading the book i find this statement to be mildly concerning!
quite frankly, i can’t believe this is real. i mean this positively and negatively. this book is both 5 and 2 stars.
i will need a few business days to unpack everything, thank you for understanding
quite frankly, i can’t believe this is real. i mean this positively and negatively. this book is both 5 and 2 stars.
i will need a few business days to unpack everything, thank you for understanding
March 14, 2013
I loved this book. Its fast paced, light but well written read.
The book is about a creative marketing grad who landed an ironic drink idea which not incidentally named Fukk that grounded his experience in the real dog eat dog corporate world.
I loved the character Sneaky Pete, that his chosen name escaped everyone and how his viciousness carried so much weight without burdening the book.
The main character Scat was so central that everyone in my opinion became background noises with not so much emotions to be explored but ultimately fits in fluidly in the plot. Because of this, I could not relate too well with the female character 6 (maybe she's like that character 13 in House?).
I really enjoyed this book and was biting my nails throughout as I found myself rooting for Scat to beat that oh so obvious-its just business- Sneaky Peat.
Like Coke, '1 part faintly repulsive black syrup, 7 parts water and 42 parts marketing', I bought the book because of the cover (;p) and drank it whole.
Perception is reality Scat!
The book is about a creative marketing grad who landed an ironic drink idea which not incidentally named Fukk that grounded his experience in the real dog eat dog corporate world.
I loved the character Sneaky Pete, that his chosen name escaped everyone and how his viciousness carried so much weight without burdening the book.
The main character Scat was so central that everyone in my opinion became background noises with not so much emotions to be explored but ultimately fits in fluidly in the plot. Because of this, I could not relate too well with the female character 6 (maybe she's like that character 13 in House?).
I really enjoyed this book and was biting my nails throughout as I found myself rooting for Scat to beat that oh so obvious-its just business- Sneaky Peat.
Like Coke, '1 part faintly repulsive black syrup, 7 parts water and 42 parts marketing', I bought the book because of the cover (;p) and drank it whole.
Perception is reality Scat!
February 19, 2017
Syrup is the story of the ups and downs (and downs and downs and downs) of a man, Scat, who is desperate to gain fame and fortune. While trying to pitch his idea for a new flavor of Coca Cola, Scat finds himself quickly learning how cutthroat the world of corporate marketing can be and discovering how he may have to conform in order to accomplish his dreams.
So I have read a couple of Maxx Barry's books, and I will say that reading only one will not give you a good grasp on what to expect from any of the others. I feel as though the underlying theme that threads them all together is Barry's scathing sarcasm/sense of humor. In this case, the witty humor was the only thing that really kept me going.
You can tell that it was a debut novel because all of the characters sort of blend together. Even with their separate names I had to keep reminding myself who was who in relation to Scat. The characters that did stand out, I really didn't care for at all. Now, let me clarify that I realize characters do not have to be likable in order to be well-written. Some of the best I've read I would gladly push off a cliff if I were forced to interact with them in my real life. But these characters usually have a degree or two of complexity that makes you contemplate their actions, they have some driving force behind why they are unlikable. In this case however, almost everyone was flat out awful, self-centered, and mean just for the sake of being so.
As for Scat's characterization, it was confusing at best. Sometimes he was confident, capable, and reliable and then a few pages later he was bumbling, nearsighted, and hot-tempered. It would have made sense if he had steadily risen from zero to hero, gaining experience and learning from his mistakes, but instead he seemed to quickly oscillate between the two.
I also struggled to stay engaged with this plot. You could argue that Syrup is a character driven novel, but I would say it's really more half and half. So, with the character aspect shot, I was relying on the story to pick up the slack. Unfortunately, I just couldn't invest myself in Scat's success. The pacing was a little jerky, and some plot points seemed to exist solely for the sake of progression.
I really appreciate that Barry uses this novel to shine a light on the despicable and underhanded methods that can be used by those in corporate marketing; working in this type of industry can really desensitize a person and distance them from the audiences they so desperately want to appeal to, and I think Barry captured that truth well. Ultimately though, this was my least favorite of his novels. I would recommend Machine Man or Lexicon over this one if you want to experience that sense of humor I mentioned earlier in a more interesting setting.
So I have read a couple of Maxx Barry's books, and I will say that reading only one will not give you a good grasp on what to expect from any of the others. I feel as though the underlying theme that threads them all together is Barry's scathing sarcasm/sense of humor. In this case, the witty humor was the only thing that really kept me going.
You can tell that it was a debut novel because all of the characters sort of blend together. Even with their separate names I had to keep reminding myself who was who in relation to Scat. The characters that did stand out, I really didn't care for at all. Now, let me clarify that I realize characters do not have to be likable in order to be well-written. Some of the best I've read I would gladly push off a cliff if I were forced to interact with them in my real life. But these characters usually have a degree or two of complexity that makes you contemplate their actions, they have some driving force behind why they are unlikable. In this case however, almost everyone was flat out awful, self-centered, and mean just for the sake of being so.
As for Scat's characterization, it was confusing at best. Sometimes he was confident, capable, and reliable and then a few pages later he was bumbling, nearsighted, and hot-tempered. It would have made sense if he had steadily risen from zero to hero, gaining experience and learning from his mistakes, but instead he seemed to quickly oscillate between the two.
I also struggled to stay engaged with this plot. You could argue that Syrup is a character driven novel, but I would say it's really more half and half. So, with the character aspect shot, I was relying on the story to pick up the slack. Unfortunately, I just couldn't invest myself in Scat's success. The pacing was a little jerky, and some plot points seemed to exist solely for the sake of progression.
I really appreciate that Barry uses this novel to shine a light on the despicable and underhanded methods that can be used by those in corporate marketing; working in this type of industry can really desensitize a person and distance them from the audiences they so desperately want to appeal to, and I think Barry captured that truth well. Ultimately though, this was my least favorite of his novels. I would recommend Machine Man or Lexicon over this one if you want to experience that sense of humor I mentioned earlier in a more interesting setting.
March 12, 2010
Maxx Barry's Syrup is an absolutely HILARIOUS satire about marketing and Corporate America. Barry's first novel is so sarcastic and unique that readers won't help but love it!
Scat is a young twenty-something man who develops a new brand of soda called Fukk. While preparing to have it officially branded and presented to a massive corporation leading in soda products, his roommate Sneaky Pete steals his invention and tries to pass it off as his own.
Coming to Scat's rescue to help him undermine the competition is 6. Yes, that's the woman's name, the number '6'. Scat and 6 have a developing relationship in terms of romaticism, but throughout the book she informs him she's a lesbian, which I suspect is to keep Scat's focus on the important mission at hand versus love.
Other zany character names are California and @ (yes, the @ symbol), which only adds to Syrup's irresistible charm. Syrup is also interesting because readers will learn marketing and strategy tidbits, for anyone still trying to get ahead and climb the corporate ladder in this day and age. Although Syrup was written in 1999, the book is timeless and not as time-sensitive as one might think, given all the changes in the world since 1999.
The chapters in Syrup are extremely short and sometimes only a page long, which makes for a fast-paced, goofy yet fun, read.
I loved Syrup and highly recommend it!
Scat is a young twenty-something man who develops a new brand of soda called Fukk. While preparing to have it officially branded and presented to a massive corporation leading in soda products, his roommate Sneaky Pete steals his invention and tries to pass it off as his own.
Coming to Scat's rescue to help him undermine the competition is 6. Yes, that's the woman's name, the number '6'. Scat and 6 have a developing relationship in terms of romaticism, but throughout the book she informs him she's a lesbian, which I suspect is to keep Scat's focus on the important mission at hand versus love.
Other zany character names are California and @ (yes, the @ symbol), which only adds to Syrup's irresistible charm. Syrup is also interesting because readers will learn marketing and strategy tidbits, for anyone still trying to get ahead and climb the corporate ladder in this day and age. Although Syrup was written in 1999, the book is timeless and not as time-sensitive as one might think, given all the changes in the world since 1999.
The chapters in Syrup are extremely short and sometimes only a page long, which makes for a fast-paced, goofy yet fun, read.
I loved Syrup and highly recommend it!
July 14, 2012
Syrup is the story of Scat, a recent marketing graduate, and his introduction into the fast-paced, back-stabbing world of corporate corruption. I mean, marketing. His easy road to world-domination (or, at least, fame and fortune) is blocked by two other marketing graduates: 6, the smart, sexy, and completely ruthless love of Scat’s life, and Sneaky Pete, a man who is so cool he doesn’t even need to speak to be successful.
Each chapter of the book is divided into small sections, each with a title and purpose. These reminded me of short ad-spots, which added to the marketing feel of the book (although I don't actually know if that was the intention). I read the entire novel in a day and a half. When I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about the book.
It’s fair to say that I had very high expectations before I started reading Syrup. It’s also fair to say that those expectations were not only met, but exceeded. The characters are amazing, the plot is fantastically cycnical, and I laughed out loud more than once while reading it. I then proceeded to rave about it to anyone who would listen, which immediately inspired me to read it a second time.
Absolutely awesome.
Each chapter of the book is divided into small sections, each with a title and purpose. These reminded me of short ad-spots, which added to the marketing feel of the book (although I don't actually know if that was the intention). I read the entire novel in a day and a half. When I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about the book.
It’s fair to say that I had very high expectations before I started reading Syrup. It’s also fair to say that those expectations were not only met, but exceeded. The characters are amazing, the plot is fantastically cycnical, and I laughed out loud more than once while reading it. I then proceeded to rave about it to anyone who would listen, which immediately inspired me to read it a second time.
Absolutely awesome.
July 13, 2016
It was just too much.
Trīs idejas samestas kopā un beigās samiksētas par lekcijas cienīgu (mārketinga paraugstunda ar paceltām uzacīm) happy-ending love story.
Kāpēc.
Trīs idejas samestas kopā un beigās samiksētas par lekcijas cienīgu (mārketinga paraugstunda ar paceltām uzacīm) happy-ending love story.
Kāpēc.
May 13, 2012
I gave this book 3/5 stars on InsatiableBooksluts.com.
Review excerpt:
"Meh.
Syrup is a big meh.
Max Barry himself said in a pretty good interview that, if he had it to do over again, he would rewrite the last third of the book. The last third of the book was the part I actually enjoyed the most–it was the first two-thirds that dragged. The story follows a fellow who calls himself Scat. By page 34, he’s met the love of his life (a self-described lesbian named 6), has made a sh**load of cash on a fabulous idea that he wanted to sell to Coca-Cola, and has subsequently been screwed out of that shitload of cash. One could easily pace that action out over twice as many pages, and when I got through the sequence I felt like I had been on a crazy roller coaster that went too fast and stopped abruptly at the height of its momentum. The plot then chased its tail for awhile until about page 143, when it finally got to a point where I could sink in my teeth. I wouldn’t have minded the jerkiness of the exposition so much if the book hadn’t then skipped like a scratched record for the next hundred-odd pages. (Lookit me overusing similes and metaphors! In fact, I’ll use another one: it reminded me of those drivers who go 90 mph to pass you, only to have to slow back down two car-lengths ahead because traffic is thick and there’s nowhere to f**king go. In related news, I hate a**holes like that.)"
Read the full review at our site.
Review excerpt:
"Meh.
Syrup is a big meh.
Max Barry himself said in a pretty good interview that, if he had it to do over again, he would rewrite the last third of the book. The last third of the book was the part I actually enjoyed the most–it was the first two-thirds that dragged. The story follows a fellow who calls himself Scat. By page 34, he’s met the love of his life (a self-described lesbian named 6), has made a sh**load of cash on a fabulous idea that he wanted to sell to Coca-Cola, and has subsequently been screwed out of that shitload of cash. One could easily pace that action out over twice as many pages, and when I got through the sequence I felt like I had been on a crazy roller coaster that went too fast and stopped abruptly at the height of its momentum. The plot then chased its tail for awhile until about page 143, when it finally got to a point where I could sink in my teeth. I wouldn’t have minded the jerkiness of the exposition so much if the book hadn’t then skipped like a scratched record for the next hundred-odd pages. (Lookit me overusing similes and metaphors! In fact, I’ll use another one: it reminded me of those drivers who go 90 mph to pass you, only to have to slow back down two car-lengths ahead because traffic is thick and there’s nowhere to f**king go. In related news, I hate a**holes like that.)"
Read the full review at our site.
November 18, 2013
I love Max Barry's books. I've read all of them now, but out of chronological order, so this one, his debut novel, I ended up reading just now. So nice to find out that he was this good right out of the gate. Although with a simpler more straght forward plot (which is still quite twisted by regular standards) Syrup has all of Barry's wit, humor and energy. Barry specializes in satires (financial and sociological)and the world is never short of offering subjects to rip into. Here the heroes are younger (as the author himself was and the extra X in his name on the cover will testify to), but their ambitions and antics are just as wild as Barry's fans are accustomed to. It's an all out marketing campaign extraordinaire, which manages to spoof not only marketing industry and overall commercialism, but also film industry as well, just for the fun of it. It's also a morality tale of ambition, love story and a play by play how to succeed in business guide of sorts. Extremely funny, dynamic, fast paced story with original likable (occasionaly in spite of themselves) characters and a very clever plot. Even the cover is funny. Awesome read, particularly impressive for a debut novel. Highly recommended.
November 1, 2011
Favorite quotes:
This describes the woman I'm attracted to: "...the girls who fight life every step of the way so by the time they're twenty they're funny and smart and cynical and utterly, utterly desirable.
That's what I like."
This describes my business philosophy: "You can stomp around and complain that the rules aren't fair, or you can grow up and start playing the game.
I'm a fan of Max Barry, I've read two of his other books and they were both great satires. This one is a satire of the marketing/advertising industry. In it a cola is launched because it sounds cool and the flavor is developed later. A movie is green-lit for the sole purpose of selling Coke. This would be funny if Transformers and Battleship we're real movies.
Ultimately, it's actually about a guy named Scat who is really naive about how business works and is shown reality one too many times. You really identify with him, because you would make those same mistakes. Not knowing how business works you wouldn't expect your friend to trademark your idea right out from under you.
Also a great little romance that would be a great romantic comedy, preferably an indie comedy.
This describes the woman I'm attracted to: "...the girls who fight life every step of the way so by the time they're twenty they're funny and smart and cynical and utterly, utterly desirable.
That's what I like."
This describes my business philosophy: "You can stomp around and complain that the rules aren't fair, or you can grow up and start playing the game.
I'm a fan of Max Barry, I've read two of his other books and they were both great satires. This one is a satire of the marketing/advertising industry. In it a cola is launched because it sounds cool and the flavor is developed later. A movie is green-lit for the sole purpose of selling Coke. This would be funny if Transformers and Battleship we're real movies.
Ultimately, it's actually about a guy named Scat who is really naive about how business works and is shown reality one too many times. You really identify with him, because you would make those same mistakes. Not knowing how business works you wouldn't expect your friend to trademark your idea right out from under you.
Also a great little romance that would be a great romantic comedy, preferably an indie comedy.
October 25, 2014
Although not as brilliant as Max Barry's second opus Jennifer Government, Syrup (Barry's first novel) is a really good read. I love Barry's satirical vision of the marketing world: it's funny, depressing, cynical and adresses serious issues, all at the same time. As with Jennifer Government, I loved the characters and the book is so compelling I read it in two sittings!
I'd advise people who haven't yet read Jennifer Government to read Syrup first, as there's an interesting progression from one to the other and you can really see how Barry's vision has evolved.
I'd advise people who haven't yet read Jennifer Government to read Syrup first, as there's an interesting progression from one to the other and you can really see how Barry's vision has evolved.
February 16, 2020
Halfway through the book I kept thinking “Scat! Get your own place!” It was a hilariously biting commentary of marketing and the industry. What a wild ride!
January 15, 2024
Frenetic energy throughout but fun nonetheless!
January 25, 2025
Muss man wahrscheinlich kein zweites Mal lesen.
Zwischendurch sehr unterhaltsam und spannend, zieht sich aber auch ein bisschen.
Muss denn immer alles schief gehen?
Zwischendurch sehr unterhaltsam und spannend, zieht sich aber auch ein bisschen.
Muss denn immer alles schief gehen?
August 25, 2012
Max Barry is great, and Syrup is great too. It covers a lot of the same themes as Machine Man and Jennifer Government (Company is still on my to-read list), but it's still entertaining, funny, and though-provoking so definitely worth a shot.
Unlike Machine Man and Jennifer Government, Syrup isn't science fiction: The book is about a young, ambitious marketing guy named Scat and his attempts to strike it rich, which end up leading to complicated entanglements with the Coca-Cola Corporation and an enigmatic, beautiful executive named 6.
Syrup is a quick read; it's super-hip and witty and definitely a page-turner, but that doesn't mean it's all fluff. I might compare Barry to Cory Doctorow in that there's definitely an agenda behind his writing, but the writing itself is so damn entertaining that you end up not really minding the message. And actually I kind of appreciate the way the political statements in Barry and Doctorow's work tend to challenge the status quo and make you think about things (advertising messages, internet security, government authority, etc.) you might have taken for granted before.
One of the main themes in Barry's writing is that the corporate world is a terrible, evil, twisted, corrupt place, but he always manages to get his point across without coming off as heavy-handed or bitter or anything. This is probably because he usually focuses on fairly innocent, naive characters who just sort of happen to find themselves in the middle of giant evil corporations' diabolical plots, rather than on the corporate masterminds who make the whole system tick.
I definitely recommend all of Barry's work, probably starting with this one if only because according to IMDb the movie version of Syrup is supposed to come out before the end of the year, and if you read the book first you can condescendingly tell everyone how much better than the movie it is.
But seriously though please don't actually do that. Unless you are trying to be a douchebag, in which case maybe you just need to take a long, hard look at your life and your choices. Or, as Max Barry might suggest, get a job in marketing.
Unlike Machine Man and Jennifer Government, Syrup isn't science fiction: The book is about a young, ambitious marketing guy named Scat and his attempts to strike it rich, which end up leading to complicated entanglements with the Coca-Cola Corporation and an enigmatic, beautiful executive named 6.
Syrup is a quick read; it's super-hip and witty and definitely a page-turner, but that doesn't mean it's all fluff. I might compare Barry to Cory Doctorow in that there's definitely an agenda behind his writing, but the writing itself is so damn entertaining that you end up not really minding the message. And actually I kind of appreciate the way the political statements in Barry and Doctorow's work tend to challenge the status quo and make you think about things (advertising messages, internet security, government authority, etc.) you might have taken for granted before.
One of the main themes in Barry's writing is that the corporate world is a terrible, evil, twisted, corrupt place, but he always manages to get his point across without coming off as heavy-handed or bitter or anything. This is probably because he usually focuses on fairly innocent, naive characters who just sort of happen to find themselves in the middle of giant evil corporations' diabolical plots, rather than on the corporate masterminds who make the whole system tick.
I definitely recommend all of Barry's work, probably starting with this one if only because according to IMDb the movie version of Syrup is supposed to come out before the end of the year, and if you read the book first you can condescendingly tell everyone how much better than the movie it is.
But seriously though please don't actually do that. Unless you are trying to be a douchebag, in which case maybe you just need to take a long, hard look at your life and your choices. Or, as Max Barry might suggest, get a job in marketing.
April 1, 2013
WHAT SYRUP AND A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE HAVE IN COMMON:
1. Unusual narrative structure. In A Song of Ice and Fire, it takes a while to get used to the way it jumps from storyline to storyline and character to character; likewise for Syrup's structure of short, snappy, titled scenes that sit within the broader chapter structure. Both work - they're just a bit different to the usual.
2. Silly names. In A Song of Ice and Fire it's high-falutin fantasy names like 'Tyrion' and 'Varys' and 'Cersei' and 'Denaerys'; in Syrup it's hip, postmodern, 90s names like 'Scat' (always makes me think of 'scatological' - an unfortunate association I think the character should have considered before choosing his name!), 'Sneaky Pete', '6', '@' (yes, I'm serious), California, and of course the unforgettable 'Babe-A-Licious'.
3. Incredible tension and lots and lots of treachery, which results in an atmosphere of constant distrust and dread, with characters spinning elaborate yet justified conspiracy theories.
4. Characters you can really get to like in spite of all the silly names and paranoia, as well as treacherous characters you just love to hate!
5. A tendency of beating the characters you like relentlessly into the ground with big pointy sticks, then burying them under piles of shit. (Seriously, I know shit happens, but the characters in these books seem to get way more than their fair share.)
Of course, there's some minor differences. Like the setting - corporate America (specifically, Coke) instead of a medieval-esque fantasy world - and the pictures (Syrup has soda bubbles decorating its pages rather than maps of fictional lands). Then there's the ending - somehow I don't see A Song of Ice and Fire ending with quite such a HEA. And, of course, Syrup is sadly lacking in incest, swordplay, dragons and the like - although it does include a smattering of handy marketing tips for anyone inspired to follow in Scat's obstacle-ridden path.
Like I said, though, the rest is pretty similar. Especially the backstabbing. If you've read A Song of Ice and Fire, you wouldn't think it was possible, but never underestimate the evils of fictionalised corporate America. Oh, the treachery! *faint*
1. Unusual narrative structure. In A Song of Ice and Fire, it takes a while to get used to the way it jumps from storyline to storyline and character to character; likewise for Syrup's structure of short, snappy, titled scenes that sit within the broader chapter structure. Both work - they're just a bit different to the usual.
2. Silly names. In A Song of Ice and Fire it's high-falutin fantasy names like 'Tyrion' and 'Varys' and 'Cersei' and 'Denaerys'; in Syrup it's hip, postmodern, 90s names like 'Scat' (always makes me think of 'scatological' - an unfortunate association I think the character should have considered before choosing his name!), 'Sneaky Pete', '6', '@' (yes, I'm serious), California, and of course the unforgettable 'Babe-A-Licious'.
3. Incredible tension and lots and lots of treachery, which results in an atmosphere of constant distrust and dread, with characters spinning elaborate yet justified conspiracy theories.
4. Characters you can really get to like in spite of all the silly names and paranoia, as well as treacherous characters you just love to hate!
5. A tendency of beating the characters you like relentlessly into the ground with big pointy sticks, then burying them under piles of shit. (Seriously, I know shit happens, but the characters in these books seem to get way more than their fair share.)
Of course, there's some minor differences. Like the setting - corporate America (specifically, Coke) instead of a medieval-esque fantasy world - and the pictures (Syrup has soda bubbles decorating its pages rather than maps of fictional lands). Then there's the ending - somehow I don't see A Song of Ice and Fire ending with quite such a HEA. And, of course, Syrup is sadly lacking in incest, swordplay, dragons and the like - although it does include a smattering of handy marketing tips for anyone inspired to follow in Scat's obstacle-ridden path.
Like I said, though, the rest is pretty similar. Especially the backstabbing. If you've read A Song of Ice and Fire, you wouldn't think it was possible, but never underestimate the evils of fictionalised corporate America. Oh, the treachery! *faint*
November 27, 2012
I read Syrup a few weeks ago, so this review might be a bit vague. Short version: I liked it. I read Jennifer Government years ago, Company before realizing it was also by Max Barry, and jumped on Machine Man as soon as I saw it on the shelves. I liked them all, for different reasons, and so when I came across Syrup in a used book store, buying it was a no brainer.
I read the book as a “break” from trying to plow through this year’s Booker Prize long list. So, right there, I’m calling out Syrup as “light” reading. My apologies, to readers and Mr. Barry alike. I do not mean to insult or denigrate. But this is certainly a younger Barry writing, a more eager, maybe even less serious Barry. Which is not to say later works are more "serious." Just that the wit in his later books is a little more world-wise, while the events in Syrup are little more farcical.
However, rest assured this is still a work written by a gifted hand. Syrup reads easy, flows smoothly, and like a roller coaster either makes you scream or guts you with anticipation. It’s a fun story, silly in places, outright absurd in others.
I’m not sure if I can be objective and judge the book on its own without considering Barry’s other works or the order in which he wrote them. (I did, after all, pick this up just cause I liked his other stuff). But I’ll tell you this: I just found out they’re shooting a film version of Syrup, and I can guarantee you it won’t do justice to Barry’s tone or style. The film could be quite good though, based on the story alone. There’s your review.
I read the book as a “break” from trying to plow through this year’s Booker Prize long list. So, right there, I’m calling out Syrup as “light” reading. My apologies, to readers and Mr. Barry alike. I do not mean to insult or denigrate. But this is certainly a younger Barry writing, a more eager, maybe even less serious Barry. Which is not to say later works are more "serious." Just that the wit in his later books is a little more world-wise, while the events in Syrup are little more farcical.
However, rest assured this is still a work written by a gifted hand. Syrup reads easy, flows smoothly, and like a roller coaster either makes you scream or guts you with anticipation. It’s a fun story, silly in places, outright absurd in others.
I’m not sure if I can be objective and judge the book on its own without considering Barry’s other works or the order in which he wrote them. (I did, after all, pick this up just cause I liked his other stuff). But I’ll tell you this: I just found out they’re shooting a film version of Syrup, and I can guarantee you it won’t do justice to Barry’s tone or style. The film could be quite good though, based on the story alone. There’s your review.
November 26, 2008
Syrup is another extremely quick read and a fabulous first book by Maxx Barry. He reverted to using “Max” as his first name for this other two books: Jennifer Government and Company. This book covers the story of Scat, a marketing graduate living in LA who believes in finding a million dollar idea, and 6, the woman of his dreams, and at times, nightmares. The novel propels you through the advertising and marketing hallways of Coca-Cola LA, Hollywood movies, and young people looking to make it big, make a friend, and have a good time. The plot is rich is sarcasm, romance, treachery, and flat-out humor. It’s also a page turner and I found myself urging my eyelids to stay open as I read another section before bed each night.
I think this is a fantastic first novel and its pace and format explain why Jennifer Government, his second novel, had the same format and style. But, I didn’t like his second novel as much, for while it had the fast pace and snarky commentary, it never developed the characters like they are fleshed out in Syrup. Company, his third novel, gets back to the mastery of character development that he had in Syrup. I read his novels in a weird order, first his second, then his third, then his first one. I highly recommend Syrup and Company, and if you want to read everything he’s got out there now, delve into Jennifer Government.
I think this is a fantastic first novel and its pace and format explain why Jennifer Government, his second novel, had the same format and style. But, I didn’t like his second novel as much, for while it had the fast pace and snarky commentary, it never developed the characters like they are fleshed out in Syrup. Company, his third novel, gets back to the mastery of character development that he had in Syrup. I read his novels in a weird order, first his second, then his third, then his first one. I highly recommend Syrup and Company, and if you want to read everything he’s got out there now, delve into Jennifer Government.
July 4, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. I decided to read it because a movie based on this book is currently being filmed in NYC starring Shiloh Fernandez, Kellan Lutz, Amber Heard and Brittany Snow (June/July 2011). I always try to read books before the movie, although I know the script for this movie is very different from the book. The main character Scat seems to always try to see the best in people and continually gets screwed over because of it. I found the book to be a very witty and funny take on the world of marketing involving business, friendship, love, and the dangerous intersections of those things. Shiloh Fernandez is going to be the perfect Scat-every line, move, and thought I felt that I could see him in this role. Kellan's role of Sneaky Pete is a bit of a change as in the book he is asian! Either way his character is definitely the silent type, so be prepared for some epic Kellan expressions. Amber Heard is going to be beautiful as 6- very strong and smart. I'm not sure of Brittany Snow's role as 3 as that character wasn't in the book. I love the way Maxx Barry (if you read the book it's funny how Max is listed as Maxx) broke up the chapters- it was unlike any other books and made it for an interesting read. Although there are going to be a lot of changes from book to movie (being moved from LA to NYC for example), I'm excited to see what happens!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2007
This is a short first person satire about breaking into Marketing and love after college. The story follows Scat as he makes and loses a fortune in the soft drink industry, while learning life lessons: such as, your best friend is a traitor, the woman you love really loves you but is terrified of her feelings, and you can only be a golden child once but regret mistakes forever. The book is fast paced, funny, and provides a reasonable look into the world of marketing (I work full time in a marketing department, which prompted me to pick-up this book.) My one complaint is the way Maxx Barry cuddles the reader. The structure of the novel involves chapters that define major plot points, and sub-sections that provide quick blurbs and keep things moving. I like the concept behind the style- It allows Barry to keep the meat of his story while removing all unnecessary exposition and time markers. However, he titled every sub-section- a decision that slowed my read and ruined several sections of text (even removed my need to read some of them entirely). Overall I enjoyed the work and intend to read more works by this author.
February 3, 2012
The goal is fame and fortune. But when Scat realises he doesn't have what it takes to be an actor (or musician), and there's no big inheritance on the way, developing a million dollar idea seems to be he only way to go. Easy, since he has so many of them. However, problems start when all his know-how of the flash of business (Marketing), requires a bit (a lot) more savvy and substance.
Peppered with pleny of "Marketing lessons" (I'd somehow missed in business school), _Syrup_ is a hilariously cynical look at corporate America and the soft drink industry, where marketing trumps taste.
While our protagonist is plenty of a jerk, I couldn't help rooting for him and his reluctant (infuriating and mesmerisingly beautiful) business partner, 6, through all the rug-pulling Barry puts the reader though. Definitely it's a fun ride with plenty of action near misses, and I'm not surprised it's being made into a movie (and I can just imagine all the cameos...).
Lighter than _Jennifer Government_ and _The Company_, author's other works but no less smart.
Like Scott Westerfeld _So Yesterday_ for adults.
Peppered with pleny of "Marketing lessons" (I'd somehow missed in business school), _Syrup_ is a hilariously cynical look at corporate America and the soft drink industry, where marketing trumps taste.
While our protagonist is plenty of a jerk, I couldn't help rooting for him and his reluctant (infuriating and mesmerisingly beautiful) business partner, 6, through all the rug-pulling Barry puts the reader though. Definitely it's a fun ride with plenty of action near misses, and I'm not surprised it's being made into a movie (and I can just imagine all the cameos...).
Lighter than _Jennifer Government_ and _The Company_, author's other works but no less smart.
Like Scott Westerfeld _So Yesterday_ for adults.
February 17, 2009
Syrup was the first book that ever that made me laugh out loud. Even though I read it in high school, it's a frequent read of mine whenever I need a quick smile. It's delightfully cynical, though I don't know if I were reading it for the first time in my mid-twenties I would have been equally as excited about it. I'm not a good judge of things that stand the test of time. Chances are, if I liked it when I was younger, I'll still like it now. Except Can't Hardly Wait. God, I hate that movie.
It's about marketing. I don't care at all about marketing. But I do care about the logistics and when you think about the fact that just about EVERYTHING has been cleverly marketed to you. Even me writing this fucking book review. GoodReads has screwed me with pretty packaging and the realization that I HAVE to review the books I've read. I am now OBLIGATED to tell everyone that Syrup was a fantastic book and that you should all read it.
So read it. Assholes.
It's about marketing. I don't care at all about marketing. But I do care about the logistics and when you think about the fact that just about EVERYTHING has been cleverly marketed to you. Even me writing this fucking book review. GoodReads has screwed me with pretty packaging and the realization that I HAVE to review the books I've read. I am now OBLIGATED to tell everyone that Syrup was a fantastic book and that you should all read it.
So read it. Assholes.
November 25, 2012
I didn't know what to expect. The premise that it was a novel about marketing was mildly interesting. Syrup is one of those pleasant suprises that happens when you take a risk.
It's a satire. A satire about how marketing, the shaping of perception, can be more important and more effective than substance. It's an almost unbelievable premise unless you've experienced it. Syrup is a satire about marketing a bad product. In this case, it's a new soda called Fukk, which is an obvious parody of any of the new sodas we've been assulted(clear pepsi, new coke, coke zero, etc)
Barry is an easy read. His language is very approachable and he doesn't preach his message. The satire throughout the book is so rich at all levels. For example, the lead character is named Scat, which you should take in all its possible meanings. This is my favorite new book in 2012. I look forward to reading the rest of Barry's works.
It's a satire. A satire about how marketing, the shaping of perception, can be more important and more effective than substance. It's an almost unbelievable premise unless you've experienced it. Syrup is a satire about marketing a bad product. In this case, it's a new soda called Fukk, which is an obvious parody of any of the new sodas we've been assulted(clear pepsi, new coke, coke zero, etc)
Barry is an easy read. His language is very approachable and he doesn't preach his message. The satire throughout the book is so rich at all levels. For example, the lead character is named Scat, which you should take in all its possible meanings. This is my favorite new book in 2012. I look forward to reading the rest of Barry's works.
March 29, 2013
This was the first ever Max Barry book I picked up, was a random choice at a bookstore one afternoon a few years back. Boy, am I glad I did! He's fast become one of my newer favourite authors and this I still feel is his best book that I've read to date. It's quirky, fast-paced and very amusing in parts. Perhaps not particularly believable at times but hey, books are escapism, are they not? The main characters can be a touch irritating at times but dammit, you're still rooting for them the whole way.
The chapters are broken up in odd little sections, there are interesting marketing interjections, the backstabbing and one-upmanship games are hugely amusing. A great day's read and nigh on unputdownable. 4th or 5th read though it may have been, the tv didn't go on all day!
The chapters are broken up in odd little sections, there are interesting marketing interjections, the backstabbing and one-upmanship games are hugely amusing. A great day's read and nigh on unputdownable. 4th or 5th read though it may have been, the tv didn't go on all day!
April 20, 2015
Fun romp through marketing as the basis for society and the application of perception control. What marred this a bit was selective idiocy in how the characters approached their work -- they often made nonsensical choices in how they approached their business issues that extended the story but felt overly reaching. And you already are stretching things given the very odd, yet funny, character names. Barry hits a lot of topics that would make great TED talks - the role of marketing in art (and vice versa), the meaning of a name, shaming in the work environment, creativity compared to operational knowledge in business, etc. Again, fun. And they made a film out of this book that has an episode on making a film.
July 4, 2011
A funny and entertaining satrire of the marketing business. Gives an insight into how the industry works that you won't find anywhere else. Full of good ideas with none of that 'leave it to the reader's imagination' cop out. He says he has a brilliant marketing idea, he puts it on the table and lets you decide if it's a good idea or not.
It's a short book, the plot isn't necessarily the most inventive, but the execution is great, and especially good for guys who want to break out of reading thrillers and crime stories all the time.
My only real negative would be the ridiculously random book jacket photo on my copy (as above).
It's a short book, the plot isn't necessarily the most inventive, but the execution is great, and especially good for guys who want to break out of reading thrillers and crime stories all the time.
My only real negative would be the ridiculously random book jacket photo on my copy (as above).
January 31, 2013
Action, plot twists, confusing characters with questionable motives? Check,check, and check.
Hipster names, satirical humor, and relevant tongue-in-cheek pop culture references? Check,check, and check.
Like the big blockbuster Hollywood style movies that are made in this book, I didn't love it. I didn't hate it. It sucked me in with the action, and kept my attention with twists and unexpected turns and snappy dialogue. It was like reading a movie. And I was blissfully aware of that and enjoyed it.
If you want something you can sit down with and get sucked into within seconds but can easily put down and walk away from it mid-chapter, this is your book.
Liked it.
Hipster names, satirical humor, and relevant tongue-in-cheek pop culture references? Check,check, and check.
Like the big blockbuster Hollywood style movies that are made in this book, I didn't love it. I didn't hate it. It sucked me in with the action, and kept my attention with twists and unexpected turns and snappy dialogue. It was like reading a movie. And I was blissfully aware of that and enjoyed it.
If you want something you can sit down with and get sucked into within seconds but can easily put down and walk away from it mid-chapter, this is your book.
Liked it.
June 20, 2013
Marketing people u got to read this... funny and emotional .... having the power to influence / peruse people is a GOD’s gift.. be careful….. like SIX .... she is strong and sexy.. lov the tension between Scot and SIX.. Sneaky Pete is one sneaky basterd .. I loved this book. Its fast paced, light but well written read.. The main characters can be a touch irritating at times but GOD, you're still rooting for them the whole way... The marketing lessons were cool ... and 4 thing, this describes the woman I'm attracted to: "...the girls who fight life every step of the way so by the time they're twenty they're funny and smart and cynical and utterly, utterly desirable. ;)
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