"Benny and Shrimp" by Katarin Mazetti Review

Benny & Shrimp


Taken From Goodreads.com:
An international sensation, this addictively readable tale asks the question: Why is it so impossible to get a relationship between two middle-aged misfits to work? The answer lies in the story of Shrimp, a young widowed librarian with a sharp intellect and a home so tidy that her jam jars are in alphabetical order; Benny, a gentle, overworked milk farmer who fears becoming the village’s Old Bachelor; and an unlikely love that should not be as complicated as it seems. Reminiscent of the works of Carol Shields, this quirky, humorous, beautifully told novel breathes new life into the age-old conundrum that is love.
I received "Benny and Shrimp" over two months ago, when I began it at the time, it wasn't able to hold my interest. However, as I picked it up THIS time I was not able to put it back down. Obviously my mindset wasn't in it previously.

This book begs the question, do opposites attract and if so, can it work? That seems to be the theme of this book. Or is it, do two lonely people who are completely opposite fall for each other just out of need?

Frankly, I loved this book. It was a fast read, passionate and left me wondering about Benny and Shrimp's relationship. I wasn't sure what I wanted from them. I wanted Benny to find a wife. I wanted Shrimp to be that wife. However, at the same, I didn't want Shrimp to be that wife. Contradictory, huh? On the other hand, I wanted Benny, the lovable farmer, to enjoy the culture that Shrimp wants to share but at the same time I wanted Shrimp to adapt to farm life. Sigh. Tis love, I guess.

Sometimes books that were popular in their native language, doesn't translate well into English but that doesn't seem to be an issue here. From Swedish to English, the point, the prose and the love came across. Give this a chance, I am disappointed I didn't sooner. This is definitely one I will read again.


Book was provided courtesy of FSB Associates for an honest review.
disclaimer: I do not receive compensation for any of my reviews. I do however, receive books for free to read and post HONEST reviews, positive and negative. The acceptance of a book does not guarantee a positive review, it just guarantees a review.

9 comments

  1. Oh, I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed this book. I snagged an ARC at a library conference last summer but haven't read it yet.

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  2. Definitely give it a read. It was a good book!

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  3. Nice review Jaime, I agree this was a good read!

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  4. The title alone has me intrigued. Your review said to me that "Yes...I must give this book a go." On to my to-read list it goes.

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  5. Great review! I've never heard of this one-- but it looks like a good read. Love translates pretty well across cultures, right?

    I like your blog discliame. It's persfect. Somany bloggers are freaking out about the new requirements-- It's all so silly. All they have to do is add two little sentences like yours to their blog and that's that!

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  6. Hi Eleni, I am glad you agree! I thought this was such a sweet book!

    Deanna, I think you won't be disappointed in the book at all! I loved it!

    Christy, I agree, love translates very well across cultures. Isn't it the international language.

    Thank you about my disclaimer. The way I see it, it's not a big deal.. AT ALL! We're typing anyways so why not add that little bit to it? Thanks again!

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  7. I just started this book yesterday and I really like it so far! Thanks for the review! :)
    Jennifer

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  8. Thanks Bird Dog!


    Can't wait to read your thoughts on it, Jennifer!

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Thank you so much for saying hello! I love your comments.