Donna’s Reviews > The Calamity Club > Status Update

Hi Donna! I’m trying to decide whether to return this one to the library and get back on hold, or read it now. Will depend on how hard-hitting it is, as I’m not in the mood right now for despair, etc. I can deal with rough stuff as long as it’s not a prevailing mood of despair and depression, without humor to lighten the picture. Would appreciate any guidance. Thanks in advance 🙏🏻

Hi Laura. As the title of the book indicates, it’s one calamity after another for the characters, but with ample humor, and two main characters with much determination, at least so far. For me, the humor lightens the book quite a bit. It was a little hard getting into it at first, but once I came to know the characters better, I have enjoyed reading it. It is a long one, though. Fortunately, I’m able to read it through hoopla, so I don’t need to rush. I hope if or when you decide to read it, it will be a good experience for you.

The title was my main concern haha. Thank you, Donna. I should be able to do it, as long as there is humor. I loved her first book. But it’s been so long ago, I don’t remember all that much about it TBH.

I’m so glad you mentioned Hoopla bc I can get it there also. This will help a lot, as I only had print copy and holding for the Libby.

One of my favorite librarians mentioned that she had a hard time getting into it and decided to return it for a different mood so others in line could get it. Do you remember roughly how long it took you to get into it?

I hope you wind up giving it a high rating once you reach the end!

I’m glad you can get it through hoopla, too, Laura. That’s interesting that the librarian you spoke with had a hard time getting into it, as well. I would say the book took hold of me somewhere around the 15% mark. It’s not that the beginning is so bad. It’s just a bit unclear as to what’s happening, at first, and how the viewpoints connect. And I wasn’t sure if the characters were going to be relatable or likable enough. But I’ve come to care about them. I have heard it drags at some point, so I’m prepared to push through it, if that happens. At this point in the book, I’d give it fours stars, so hopefully, that will hold. I look forward to hearing your view of it.

Thank you Donna. I will let you know! So far so good but I’m only on p 12.

Hi Donna, I’ve decided to return this to the library. Meg’s story is for me too depressing.

I’m wondering if she gets out of the orphanage around 15% and that’s where it gets better? If so I may be able to read/skim her parts to get there but I’m not sure if Birdie’s story is way better. I actually typed the word depressing in to the reviews search feature and kinda got the feeling that it all prevails, this mood I’m feeling. There is humor but for my mood now it might not be enough to wipe away what for me is the awfulness of that orphanage for Meg and the other kids.

I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you at this time, Laura, which I can understand. For me, the humor helps distance me from anything bad that’s happening, making it surreal, in a way. But I can see where it may not be enough, especially if you’re wanting something more uplifting. I hope whatever you read next will give you what you’re looking for.

One question Donna (view spoiler)[ does she get out of the orphanage fairly early on bc that part is really bugging me if not. (hide spoiler)]

Yes, but not until around 25% in.

Wow so 150+ pp. I don’t wanna press through that much. Maybe another time. Thanks again for your help!