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The 25th Hour
An absorbing novel of crime, its terrifying consequences, and a bond that redefines the friendship of three restless young men. Wall Street speculators, the Manhattan downtown club scene, Russian gangsters, immigrant neighborhoods - all the elements in the urban turf of this finely crafted contemporary crime novel wed danger with excitement and possibility. They're the rewards that Monty Brogan, who stands at the center of the moral glare in this tale, has already lost, just as he's lost his Corvette, and the "sway" that opened the doors of exclusive night spots and guaranteed him courtside seats at Madison Square Garden. Tomorrow Monty's traveling by bus, to the federal prison in Otisville, for seven years. He's afraid, and all he'd ever really wanted when he grew up was to be a fireman. With the pulse of the city in its prose, this debut novel follows Monty through the twenty-four hours of his last day out. At the same time, it illuminates the worlds, and souls, of his two best friends: Frank Slattery, an edgy bond trader who gambles daily with financial ruin, and Jakob Elinsky, an English teacher who clings to illusions as he compromises his ideals. Friends since their high school days, the three of them nostalgically share a past, but warily they confront a future that can no longer accommodate their adolescent dreams. They meet. They drink, and talk, go clubbing, dance, drink, and remember. What neither Slattery nor Jakob know, however, is that Monty has a plan. It's a shocker.
Originally published: New York: Carroll & Graf Pub., 2000.
Originally published: New York: Carroll & Graf Pub., 2000.
224 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2000
About the author
David Benioff
18 books1,985 followersDavid Benioff worked as a nightclub bouncer in San Francisco, a radio DJ in Wyoming and an English teacher/wrestling coach in Brooklyn before selling his first novel, The 25th Hour, in 2000.
He later wrote the screenplay for Spike Lee’s adaptation of 25th Hour starring Edward Norton and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. In 2005, Viking Press published Benioff’s collection of short stories, When the Nines Roll Over.
Benioff’s screenwriting credits include Troy (2004), directed by Wolfgang Petersen, and Stay (2005), directed by Marc Forster, The Kite Runner (2007). Jim Sheridan produced Benioff’s screenplay Brothers, and Hugh Jackman reprised his role as the clawed mutant in Benioff’s Wolverine. He is also screenwriter and executive producer of Game of Thrones, HBO's adaptation of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series of novels.
Viking published his most recent novel, City of Thieves, in May 2008.
Benioff is married to actress Amanda Peet; the couple has three children.
He later wrote the screenplay for Spike Lee’s adaptation of 25th Hour starring Edward Norton and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. In 2005, Viking Press published Benioff’s collection of short stories, When the Nines Roll Over.
Benioff’s screenwriting credits include Troy (2004), directed by Wolfgang Petersen, and Stay (2005), directed by Marc Forster, The Kite Runner (2007). Jim Sheridan produced Benioff’s screenplay Brothers, and Hugh Jackman reprised his role as the clawed mutant in Benioff’s Wolverine. He is also screenwriter and executive producer of Game of Thrones, HBO's adaptation of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series of novels.
Viking published his most recent novel, City of Thieves, in May 2008.
Benioff is married to actress Amanda Peet; the couple has three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 595 reviews
September 11, 2012
David Benioff is perfect.
I know, I know, he can't be. For a start his books are really popular, so he can't be good, right? I mean not really good, not if he's making a living out of it.
And honestly, his novels: they start at the start and end at the end, they have a story to them and fantastic characters. I mean, how passé can you get?
Hang on a tick. I think this is what I meant to say:
I started this yesterday, began it again at breakfast and couldn't do a thing until it was finished.
Yayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Yay for a great story full of people who are a joy to read about that makes you feel a bit weepy at the end, not to give anything away.
YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
I know, I know, he can't be. For a start his books are really popular, so he can't be good, right? I mean not really good, not if he's making a living out of it.
And honestly, his novels: they start at the start and end at the end, they have a story to them and fantastic characters. I mean, how passé can you get?
Hang on a tick. I think this is what I meant to say:
I started this yesterday, began it again at breakfast and couldn't do a thing until it was finished.
Yayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Yay for a great story full of people who are a joy to read about that makes you feel a bit weepy at the end, not to give anything away.
YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
October 31, 2014
"This life came so close to never happening..."This is the real deal. Taut, engaging writing, themes that aren't shoved down your throat, and great characters that stick with you. Pretty-boy drug dealer Monty gets pinched and is about to get sent upstate for 7 years, so he decides to spend his last free day saying goodbye to his friends and family, including Wall Street hustler Frank, school-teacher Jacob, who fantasizes about his sexy high school student, and Monty's girlfriend Naturelle, whom he thinks just might've been the one that dimed him out. It's not only a story of three young, professional men trying to deal with their own insecurities while forced to say goodbye, but it's also a farewell to New York City. The story moves at a captivating pace all the way up to it's soaring, poignant, and memorable ending (one of my favorites in fiction). An awesome first novel by the talented David Benioff, and the basis for one of my favorite movies.
September 7, 2016
Two stars completely defines how I felt about this book. It was ok. It kind of pains me to say this because his other book, City of Thieves, is a marvelous five-star read!
The good: well-drawn characters that are introduced to us as individuals and then shown in a whole new context when these three friends all come together.
The ok: I couldn’t summon much interest for the story or for those well-drawn characters and I found that I didn’t much care what happened to any of them. There were a couple revealing moments with Monty (particularly a flashback to childhood and a trip to see his mother in the hospital) but that’s about the extent of it.
Don’t get me wrong, Benioff can most certainly write. Have I mentioned his other book City of Thieves? I did? Yes, well… it’s pretty great.
PS: City of Thieves.
The good: well-drawn characters that are introduced to us as individuals and then shown in a whole new context when these three friends all come together.
The ok: I couldn’t summon much interest for the story or for those well-drawn characters and I found that I didn’t much care what happened to any of them. There were a couple revealing moments with Monty (particularly a flashback to childhood and a trip to see his mother in the hospital) but that’s about the extent of it.
Don’t get me wrong, Benioff can most certainly write. Have I mentioned his other book City of Thieves? I did? Yes, well… it’s pretty great.
PS: City of Thieves.
April 28, 2024
Imagine... You've made some bad mistakes that cost you and now it's time to face the music. Worse yet, you know a friend snitched you out to save his skin, but you say nothing. Your long time girlfriend has never worked a day in her life while living like a queen, ignorant to the reality. Your life long friends are speechless knowing they won't see you for seven years.. Or maybe never again.
This is the story of Monty Brogan, a 27 year old NY drug dealer who has twenty five hours before heading to prison. His emotions are all over the map, while his friends can't begin to imagine how he must feel. As they gather at a club for send off party, revelations surface as they bare their souls.
Well paced, engaging and inspired, we get a glimpse into the thoughts of the characters and wonder.. What would I feel were this me? Having been through this myself, this story speaks miles about regret, and the value of friendship.
For those unaware this story was adapted in a Spike Lee film starring Ed Norton and received many award nominations. As with most books is it fills information left out in the film, and for that I am truly grateful. A fast, evocative read, I can't recommend this enough. Add it to your list and enjoy the ride.
This is the story of Monty Brogan, a 27 year old NY drug dealer who has twenty five hours before heading to prison. His emotions are all over the map, while his friends can't begin to imagine how he must feel. As they gather at a club for send off party, revelations surface as they bare their souls.
Well paced, engaging and inspired, we get a glimpse into the thoughts of the characters and wonder.. What would I feel were this me? Having been through this myself, this story speaks miles about regret, and the value of friendship.
For those unaware this story was adapted in a Spike Lee film starring Ed Norton and received many award nominations. As with most books is it fills information left out in the film, and for that I am truly grateful. A fast, evocative read, I can't recommend this enough. Add it to your list and enjoy the ride.
February 20, 2008
I really like this movie so figured I should check out the source material -- turns out it's exactly like the movie..? Or, you know, vice versa. But it almost feels like it was written with a movie in mind, what with its shortness and visual descriptions and whatnot. The fact that the author went on to be a screenwriter surprises me not a whit.
Also can I say the author is WAY too handsome to be a writer? It's SICKENING. But it does lend some authenticity to his descriptions of Monty, the protagonist here, who is also very good looking and, unfortunately, too good looking to go to jail and have it be a pleasant experience. (I mean this author is WAY better looking than Ed Norton, who played Monty in the movie.) He's so good looking -- I don't mean to harp on this, but -- that I had DOUBTS that he actually wrote this book. I seriously had thoughts like: This dialogue is too finely tuned, and this point is too intelligently and creatively made, to have come from the mind of THIS MALE MODEL OVER HERE. But these are my issues and not germane to this "review."
Anyway I liked this. It's a quick read, but Sex God does a lot with a little, choosing just the right words and putting them in just the right spots. It's a simple but strong story concept, and -- esp. considering it's his first (and only?) novel -- it's nice that Dimple Chin doesn't feel compelled to be self-indulgent and crank out 800 pages of bloat but instead constructs a nice, modest, tight, smart thing out of it. God DAMMIT.
Also can I say the author is WAY too handsome to be a writer? It's SICKENING. But it does lend some authenticity to his descriptions of Monty, the protagonist here, who is also very good looking and, unfortunately, too good looking to go to jail and have it be a pleasant experience. (I mean this author is WAY better looking than Ed Norton, who played Monty in the movie.) He's so good looking -- I don't mean to harp on this, but -- that I had DOUBTS that he actually wrote this book. I seriously had thoughts like: This dialogue is too finely tuned, and this point is too intelligently and creatively made, to have come from the mind of THIS MALE MODEL OVER HERE. But these are my issues and not germane to this "review."
Anyway I liked this. It's a quick read, but Sex God does a lot with a little, choosing just the right words and putting them in just the right spots. It's a simple but strong story concept, and -- esp. considering it's his first (and only?) novel -- it's nice that Dimple Chin doesn't feel compelled to be self-indulgent and crank out 800 pages of bloat but instead constructs a nice, modest, tight, smart thing out of it. God DAMMIT.
June 17, 2015
I holy-shit-loved David Benioff’s second book, City of Thieves, back when I read it in 2009, and I’ve been book-pushing it to friends ever since. (FYI, they’ve all loved it, too.) But I never got around to reading his first book until now (partly because it’s kind of hard to track down–also, I’ve never seen the film, which is apparently pretty great).
Ultimately, The 25th Hour was kind of a let down for me, but I say “kind of” because, a) it was really well-written, and b) really short. So even though I didn’t gel with most of the themes or characters, it was still enjoyable enough to stack it in the win column.
The basic premise is that the “main character” Monty (who isn’t really the main character) is about to go to jail for seven years. He has twenty-four hours left before he has to board the bus, and he’s going to spend it with his family and with his friends and girlfriend. But really, the book is as much about his two best friends and his girlfriend as it is about him. It’s definitely a character piece, and it’s definitely “lit-fic”, in the sense that there isn’t so much of a plot as there is a chance for these character to use their friend’s situation as a prism through which to examine their own lives and choices. But it’s not as obvious as that, either. It’s more subtle.
None of the characters except Naturelle (lord, that name) are really likable, but they are all interesting. And there are some really great passages:
And Benioff has a twisted sense of humor:
I shouldn’t have liked this at all, really. Books about white man identity problems don’t interest me, especially ones where the characters work out their issues through inappropriate sex or aggression. And there is some of that here, though it’s not the focus. But Benioff is just such a good writer. He made me care in spite of myself. And the last couple pages are a real gut punch. Ultimately, this is a book about living with the consequences of your own decisions, and that’s something that I can get behind.
[3.5 stars]
Ultimately, The 25th Hour was kind of a let down for me, but I say “kind of” because, a) it was really well-written, and b) really short. So even though I didn’t gel with most of the themes or characters, it was still enjoyable enough to stack it in the win column.
The basic premise is that the “main character” Monty (who isn’t really the main character) is about to go to jail for seven years. He has twenty-four hours left before he has to board the bus, and he’s going to spend it with his family and with his friends and girlfriend. But really, the book is as much about his two best friends and his girlfriend as it is about him. It’s definitely a character piece, and it’s definitely “lit-fic”, in the sense that there isn’t so much of a plot as there is a chance for these character to use their friend’s situation as a prism through which to examine their own lives and choices. But it’s not as obvious as that, either. It’s more subtle.
None of the characters except Naturelle (lord, that name) are really likable, but they are all interesting. And there are some really great passages:
“‘No matter what, it’s bye-bye Monty.’
‘What does that mean?’
Slattery raises his thumb. ‘If he runs, he’s gone. You’ll never see him again.’ He raises his index finger, the top joint crooked from wrestling days. ‘If he pulls the trigger, he’s gone. They’ll keep the casket closed.’ He raises his middle finger. ‘If they lock him away, he’s gone. You’ll never see him again.’
‘I’ll see him again,’ says Jakob. ‘I’ll see him when he gets out.’
The elevator doors open and Slattery steps inside. ‘I wouldn’t bet on it. You think you’re still going to be friends? You think you’ll kick back with a couple of beers and reminisce? Forget it, Jake. It’s over after tonight. You getting in?'”
And Benioff has a twisted sense of humor:
“‘When I was twelve I catch soldier raping my mother. I scream, I punch him, try to kick his balls. He takes knife and opens me up. My mother, she is trying to push me back in. My–how do you say, the coils–‘ Kostya twirls his fingers to indicate coils.
‘Intestines?’
‘My intestines come falling out. So she is pushing them back in. Very bad. But see–‘ Kostya beats his chest with his fist. ‘I survive. Big man, now. Later, I find out he was not raping my mother. So, okay, he wasn’t such a bad man. He drove me to hospital.’
‘After he cut you up?’
‘Yes, but he felt very bad. I scared him. He comes back from Afghanistan. Things very bad there for Soviet soldiers. So yes, he cuts me up, but then he drives me to hospital and we become friends.'”
I shouldn’t have liked this at all, really. Books about white man identity problems don’t interest me, especially ones where the characters work out their issues through inappropriate sex or aggression. And there is some of that here, though it’s not the focus. But Benioff is just such a good writer. He made me care in spite of myself. And the last couple pages are a real gut punch. Ultimately, this is a book about living with the consequences of your own decisions, and that’s something that I can get behind.
[3.5 stars]
December 16, 2015
I picked up The 25th Hour because of my initial interest in Benioff’s other book, City of Thieves, but I often prefer to read an author’s work in order of release, especially with one I have no experience. I wasn’t disappointed in The 25th Hour, but I do believe that City of Thieves will be the better book.
This one is a small book encompassing (like its title hints to) one day in the life of four main characters. Three of these people are friends, the other being the main character’s girlfriend. At the end of the 24 hours, she and the other two guys will lose Monty Brogan to prison, and possibly for life because who’s to say Monty will make it out alive. If he does, will the others still be around? This is what The 25th Hour explores in its pages and what I liked most about it. Benioff succinctly introduces the reader to each of the four friends within a couple of hundred pages. I walked away feeling I knew each of them, and because of that I really wanted to follow along a little further. The ending left me pondering the future of each character. I’ll take that as a good thing.
This one is a small book encompassing (like its title hints to) one day in the life of four main characters. Three of these people are friends, the other being the main character’s girlfriend. At the end of the 24 hours, she and the other two guys will lose Monty Brogan to prison, and possibly for life because who’s to say Monty will make it out alive. If he does, will the others still be around? This is what The 25th Hour explores in its pages and what I liked most about it. Benioff succinctly introduces the reader to each of the four friends within a couple of hundred pages. I walked away feeling I knew each of them, and because of that I really wanted to follow along a little further. The ending left me pondering the future of each character. I’ll take that as a good thing.
November 3, 2017
Another tough one to rate... 3.5/5, rounded down.
I've wanted to read a David Benioff book for a while now. I don't know why it took me this long to do that, but I finally did. While my rating for this book isn't as high as I expected, I did enjoy several things about it.
I really loved the writing style. I loved it a lot. Benioff's words pack a punch; he says a lot in so few words.This book was not as action packed as I suspected it would be, but the prose kept me engaged and interested the entire time. The setting was great, the timeline was nice, he introduced the characters in a consistent way, weaving their individual personalities with their group personas coherently. For that reason, the character development was really nice. Benioff doesn't drone on about each person on any deep level, but enough that you get an overall sense of the person, and their relationship with Monty.
My disappointment in this book is due to several factors. This book certainly did not redefine the crime novel. The crime isn't something novice - this kind of stuff happens all the time. (At least where I'm from it does.) Nothing about this book surprised me at all. Additionally, I think some of the characters in this book were perhaps unnecessarily placed in there for reasons I don't understand... There were also a few unanswered questions I had, and I really wanted the answers...
For instance...
I definitely intend to read his other works, City of Thieves and When the Nines Roll Over and Other Stories. While I didn't enjoy everything about this book, I think for someone who hasn't read a Benioff book previously, this is a good place to start. If you don't like the style of writing OR the story [both], it's safe to assume his other stuff wouldn't be enjoyable. The story here was okay for me and I loved, loved, loved the writing style, so I'm excited to read another one!
I've wanted to read a David Benioff book for a while now. I don't know why it took me this long to do that, but I finally did. While my rating for this book isn't as high as I expected, I did enjoy several things about it.
I really loved the writing style. I loved it a lot. Benioff's words pack a punch; he says a lot in so few words.This book was not as action packed as I suspected it would be, but the prose kept me engaged and interested the entire time. The setting was great, the timeline was nice, he introduced the characters in a consistent way, weaving their individual personalities with their group personas coherently. For that reason, the character development was really nice. Benioff doesn't drone on about each person on any deep level, but enough that you get an overall sense of the person, and their relationship with Monty.
My disappointment in this book is due to several factors. This book certainly did not redefine the crime novel. The crime isn't something novice - this kind of stuff happens all the time. (At least where I'm from it does.) Nothing about this book surprised me at all. Additionally, I think some of the characters in this book were perhaps unnecessarily placed in there for reasons I don't understand... There were also a few unanswered questions I had, and I really wanted the answers...
For instance...
I definitely intend to read his other works, City of Thieves and When the Nines Roll Over and Other Stories. While I didn't enjoy everything about this book, I think for someone who hasn't read a Benioff book previously, this is a good place to start. If you don't like the style of writing OR the story [both], it's safe to assume his other stuff wouldn't be enjoyable. The story here was okay for me and I loved, loved, loved the writing style, so I'm excited to read another one!
September 1, 2021
I hold a serious grudge with Benioff after the way the final two seasons of Game of Thrones plummeted in quality. That said, I have to admit this book was excellent. In terms of debut novels, I'd put this along with Hannah Pittard's The Fates Will Find Their Way as the two best I can think of.
February 25, 2021
Very readable, and a good study in how to develop characters and scenes. However, it is a bit overwritten in my opinion, I prefer sparse prose.
Mary’s hazel eyes drown in pools of painted shadow, pennies just visible at the bottom of the wishing well. Jakob wonders why she and her friends favor such a morbid style, as if their models were not chosen from the covers of slick magazines but the refrigerators of the city morgue. And her hair. When was the last time she washed her hair?
In saying that Benioff writes beautifully and with impressive flow. I was hooked by the prologue where Monty and his Ukrainian thug sidekick rescue a Pitbull lying wounded by the side of the road. This dog, Doyle, becomes an entertaining character in his own right. The plot does meander a bit, something you’ll know if you’ve seen the movie.
This is the tale of the golden boy, Monty - one who didn't think the rules were from him - getting his comeuppance. I also thought Jakob, Monty's high school teacher's friend was a strong character, a man totally lacking in self-confidence, played with cringeworthy brilliance by Philip Seymour Hoffman in the movie. The book is also an ode to New York where Benioff grew up. Having seen so many movies set in New York and LA, I'd rather read about another American city.
One thing I didn't really find convincing was the way Monty wooed Naturelle - leaving expensive gifts for her at her school. This seems a bit desperate, or was it just the practical way of doing things for Monty who always got what he wanted? Getting paid to write the screenplay allowed Benioff to quit his teaching job. While the book’s ending leaves us hanging, in real life a writer managing to quit his teaching job is a happy ending.
Mary’s hazel eyes drown in pools of painted shadow, pennies just visible at the bottom of the wishing well. Jakob wonders why she and her friends favor such a morbid style, as if their models were not chosen from the covers of slick magazines but the refrigerators of the city morgue. And her hair. When was the last time she washed her hair?
In saying that Benioff writes beautifully and with impressive flow. I was hooked by the prologue where Monty and his Ukrainian thug sidekick rescue a Pitbull lying wounded by the side of the road. This dog, Doyle, becomes an entertaining character in his own right. The plot does meander a bit, something you’ll know if you’ve seen the movie.
This is the tale of the golden boy, Monty - one who didn't think the rules were from him - getting his comeuppance. I also thought Jakob, Monty's high school teacher's friend was a strong character, a man totally lacking in self-confidence, played with cringeworthy brilliance by Philip Seymour Hoffman in the movie. The book is also an ode to New York where Benioff grew up. Having seen so many movies set in New York and LA, I'd rather read about another American city.
One thing I didn't really find convincing was the way Monty wooed Naturelle - leaving expensive gifts for her at her school. This seems a bit desperate, or was it just the practical way of doing things for Monty who always got what he wanted? Getting paid to write the screenplay allowed Benioff to quit his teaching job. While the book’s ending leaves us hanging, in real life a writer managing to quit his teaching job is a happy ending.
August 9, 2014
City of Thieves is one of my all-time favorites so I’ve had The 25th Hour on my shelf with hopes of getting to it much earlier than now. When I learned that the movie was currently playing on cable, I read the book and then immediately watched the movie. They are almost exactly alike. Not so strange, I guess, considering David Benioff also penned the screenplay. Wasn’t thrilled with the choice of Edward Norton playing Monty, the guy counting down the 24 hours until he has to report to prison for a 7 year sentence on drug charges. Monty is way too pretty to survive prison (prettier than Mr. Norton), and that has him worried. He’s also worried about his dad, who runs a local bar and whose very being could be endangered should Monty rat out his suppliers; about his girlfriend, who he suspects turned him in to the authorities; and very much worried about who will care for his beloved dog, which he found on the street and rescued from a near-death experience. The night before the 25th hour is spent reminiscing and partying with his two closest friends, Jakob and Frank. These characters along with a student of Jakob’s and the Ukrainian/Russian drug cartel make up the entire cast, and the book is not long, all making for a very quick read, although rather depressing. Some of the “farewell” scenes in the movie moved me to tears. 3.5 stars
March 20, 2021
The characters in this novel almost walk off the page into your life. Each one could have his or her own novel. So why did I feel like I was dying of boredom from the first pages?
There is some good writing in this book and some cool characters, but nothing interesting ever happens, not even a little interesting. Would you really feel like going to a party the night before you go to prison for seven years? That is some truly “life not examined” shit right there.
The only good scene is in the gangster’s office, and then that really goes nowhere. There is no pacing at all and I never felt like reading more. It took me several sittings to read this little book.
Sorry, I’ve never lived in New York and would never care to, but the whole thing about being allowed into clubs via the Goodfellas portal has no appeal to me. Who even wants to go to clubs? Quite honestly, fuck New York. I’ve lived in many better cities without the Big Apple’s rot.
Let’s begin with the beginning and the whole man-dog love affair. What is this? A Walt Disney movie? If some guy went to prison and tried to pawn off his beard dog on me, I’d have him put to sleep and then lock the dog out of my house. Sorry, your mental issues are not my problem.
RE: Going out on the town. I get it, a little. I’m heterosexual, I like girls, but clubs are mostly about hooking up short-term, or one-night stands, right? Who is looking to get good at that? I’ll admit that I was never a very successful pick-up artist and a very mediocre “ladies’ man” (even to a dude that sounds incredibly gross), but the dudes that I knew who were mostly creeped me out.
And who the hell is LoBianco to be moralizing?
There is no scenario in which it’s cool for a 26-year-old teacher to fuck his 17-year-old student. I don’t give a shit about consent laws. It’s just creepy and wrong. What in the hell would you talk about with this child? Pick on someone your own size. It’s the same as bullying, but a million times more damaging, or potentially so. I’ve been in some lopsided age relationships in my life, but we were all very mature adults capable of voting, buying alcohol, signing contracts, et cetera.
Turns out that Monty is also a pedophile, cruising a playground trolling for girls. I’m seeing a pattern, a creepy pattern.
There is some good writing in this book and some cool characters, but nothing interesting ever happens, not even a little interesting. Would you really feel like going to a party the night before you go to prison for seven years? That is some truly “life not examined” shit right there.
The only good scene is in the gangster’s office, and then that really goes nowhere. There is no pacing at all and I never felt like reading more. It took me several sittings to read this little book.
Sorry, I’ve never lived in New York and would never care to, but the whole thing about being allowed into clubs via the Goodfellas portal has no appeal to me. Who even wants to go to clubs? Quite honestly, fuck New York. I’ve lived in many better cities without the Big Apple’s rot.
Let’s begin with the beginning and the whole man-dog love affair. What is this? A Walt Disney movie? If some guy went to prison and tried to pawn off his beard dog on me, I’d have him put to sleep and then lock the dog out of my house. Sorry, your mental issues are not my problem.
RE: Going out on the town. I get it, a little. I’m heterosexual, I like girls, but clubs are mostly about hooking up short-term, or one-night stands, right? Who is looking to get good at that? I’ll admit that I was never a very successful pick-up artist and a very mediocre “ladies’ man” (even to a dude that sounds incredibly gross), but the dudes that I knew who were mostly creeped me out.
And who the hell is LoBianco to be moralizing?
There is no scenario in which it’s cool for a 26-year-old teacher to fuck his 17-year-old student. I don’t give a shit about consent laws. It’s just creepy and wrong. What in the hell would you talk about with this child? Pick on someone your own size. It’s the same as bullying, but a million times more damaging, or potentially so. I’ve been in some lopsided age relationships in my life, but we were all very mature adults capable of voting, buying alcohol, signing contracts, et cetera.
Turns out that Monty is also a pedophile, cruising a playground trolling for girls. I’m seeing a pattern, a creepy pattern.
February 16, 2024
Like many people, I was first exposed to David Benioff’s novel not on the page but on the screen, thanks to Spike Lee’s magnificent adaptation. When I prepared to rewatch the movie for a project, though, I decided to read Benioff’s novel so as to see what the differences were between the two works. Fortunately, this did not inhibit me from enjoying Benioff’s novel on its own merits. Reading it gave me a chance to know better Monty Broghan on the eve of his departure for Otisville, where he will spend the next seven years as a prisoner. The time remaining to him gives him a chance to spend one last day with his family and friends, but also to ponder over the mistakes that led him to that point. Monty’s world has fallen apart, and he is given one last chance to figure out how it went all wrong before it changes irrevocably.
Part of Benioff’s success in the book is to write a central character who is simultaneously both sympathetic and yet deserving of his fate. Monty’s own grudging acceptance of the mistakes that brought him to that point is key to this, as it gives him a degree of self-awareness that they reader can appreciate. The consequences of his choices is demonstrated effectively by the responses of the loved ones around him, whose lives Benioff incorporates into his story. Yet we learn about more than how Monty’s girlfriend Naturelle, and his close friends Frank and Jakob are coping with his impending departure from their lives, as we get to see as well how they are also facing choices for which the consequences could prove disastrous. Though these are not resolved by the end of the novel, they underscore the challenges adulthood poses for all of them and how mistakes become increasingly unforgivable.
This element of choice and consequence is one that I found most relatable. Yet the idea of the plunge into the unknown at the end of the novel is what stands out most for me. Perhaps this is because Lee’s incorporation of the events of September 11 into his adaptation underscores this, in some ways perhaps more presciently than he anticipated. Yet one does not need the association with such a transformative event to appreciate the momentousness of the fate which is facing Monty in the novel. Written as it was before 9/11, it offers a more universal story that, thanks to Benioff’s writing, deserves to be judged on its own merits. My only regret in this regard is that it took me until now to do so.
Part of Benioff’s success in the book is to write a central character who is simultaneously both sympathetic and yet deserving of his fate. Monty’s own grudging acceptance of the mistakes that brought him to that point is key to this, as it gives him a degree of self-awareness that they reader can appreciate. The consequences of his choices is demonstrated effectively by the responses of the loved ones around him, whose lives Benioff incorporates into his story. Yet we learn about more than how Monty’s girlfriend Naturelle, and his close friends Frank and Jakob are coping with his impending departure from their lives, as we get to see as well how they are also facing choices for which the consequences could prove disastrous. Though these are not resolved by the end of the novel, they underscore the challenges adulthood poses for all of them and how mistakes become increasingly unforgivable.
This element of choice and consequence is one that I found most relatable. Yet the idea of the plunge into the unknown at the end of the novel is what stands out most for me. Perhaps this is because Lee’s incorporation of the events of September 11 into his adaptation underscores this, in some ways perhaps more presciently than he anticipated. Yet one does not need the association with such a transformative event to appreciate the momentousness of the fate which is facing Monty in the novel. Written as it was before 9/11, it offers a more universal story that, thanks to Benioff’s writing, deserves to be judged on its own merits. My only regret in this regard is that it took me until now to do so.
October 11, 2019
Βαθμολογία: 9/10
Τον Οκτώβριο του 2013 διάβασα το πραγματικά εξαιρετικό και απολαυστικό ιστορικό μυθιστόρημα "Η πολιτεία των ληστών", σκηνές του οποίου ακόμα θυμάμαι. Έξι χρόνια αργότερα, ξαναπιάνω βιβλίο του Μπένιοφ στα χέρια μου, το οποίο έχει γίνει ταινία σε σκηνοθεσία Σπάικ Λι. Την ταινία έτυχε να τη δω όταν πήγαινα ακόμα στο Γυμνάσιο, όμως ελάχιστα πράγματα θυμόμουν από την πλοκή και τους χαρακτήρες, οπότε το γεγονός ότι είδα πρώτα την ταινία, τελικά δεν μου χάλασε την αναγνωστική απόλαυση.
Μιλάμε για ένα εξαιρετικό κοινωνικό δράμα, με απλή πλοκή, αλλά με πολύ καλά σκιαγραφημένους χαρακτήρες, έντονο ρεαλισμό, φοβερή γραφή και κάπως μελαγχολική και γκρίζα ατμόσφαιρα. Οι αναγνώστες γίνονται μάρτυρες του τελευταίου εικοσιτετράωρου του Μόντι, πριν φυλακιστεί στις ομοσπονδιακές φυλακές του Ότισβιλ, για εμπόριο ναρκωτικών. Ο συγγραφέας καταφέρνει με χαρακτηριστική άνεση να μεταφέρει τους αναγνώστες στη χειμωνιάτικη Νέα Υόρκη (στους χιονισμένους δρόμους, τα εστιατόρια, τα μπαρ και τα κλαμπ), αλλά και να τους περάσει τα συναισθήματα που νιώθει και τις σκέψεις που κάνει ο Μόντι πριν μπει στη φυλακή, καθώς επίσης και αυτά που σκέφτονται οι φίλοι του για το συγκεκριμένο στενάχωρο γεγονός, αλλά και για τη φιλία που τους δένει. Μπορεί να πει κανείς ότι το βιβλίο έχει και κάποιες υπαρξιακές ανησυχίες, χωρίς όμως να γίνεται πολύ βαρύ. Η γραφή είναι πάρα πολύ καλή, έντονη και οξυδερκής, με ρεαλιστικές περιγραφές και ολοζώντανους διαλόγους.
Οπότε, επειδή πραγματικά δέθηκα με την ιστορία και τους χαρακτήρες, αλλά και επειδή με ξετρέλανε το όλο στιλ και ύφος γραφής, θα βάλω πέντε αστεράκια (τεσσεράμισι για την ακρίβεια). Κάποια στιγμή στο άμεσο μέλλον θα ξαναδώ την ταινία, τόσο για να κάνω και τη σύγκριση μεταξύ των δυο, όσο και γιατί είναι από τις πολύ καλές δραματικές ταινίες του 21ου αιώνα.
Τον Οκτώβριο του 2013 διάβασα το πραγματικά εξαιρετικό και απολαυστικό ιστορικό μυθιστόρημα "Η πολιτεία των ληστών", σκηνές του οποίου ακόμα θυμάμαι. Έξι χρόνια αργότερα, ξαναπιάνω βιβλίο του Μπένιοφ στα χέρια μου, το οποίο έχει γίνει ταινία σε σκηνοθεσία Σπάικ Λι. Την ταινία έτυχε να τη δω όταν πήγαινα ακόμα στο Γυμνάσιο, όμως ελάχιστα πράγματα θυμόμουν από την πλοκή και τους χαρακτήρες, οπότε το γεγονός ότι είδα πρώτα την ταινία, τελικά δεν μου χάλασε την αναγνωστική απόλαυση.
Μιλάμε για ένα εξαιρετικό κοινωνικό δράμα, με απλή πλοκή, αλλά με πολύ καλά σκιαγραφημένους χαρακτήρες, έντονο ρεαλισμό, φοβερή γραφή και κάπως μελαγχολική και γκρίζα ατμόσφαιρα. Οι αναγνώστες γίνονται μάρτυρες του τελευταίου εικοσιτετράωρου του Μόντι, πριν φυλακιστεί στις ομοσπονδιακές φυλακές του Ότισβιλ, για εμπόριο ναρκωτικών. Ο συγγραφέας καταφέρνει με χαρακτηριστική άνεση να μεταφέρει τους αναγνώστες στη χειμωνιάτικη Νέα Υόρκη (στους χιονισμένους δρόμους, τα εστιατόρια, τα μπαρ και τα κλαμπ), αλλά και να τους περάσει τα συναισθήματα που νιώθει και τις σκέψεις που κάνει ο Μόντι πριν μπει στη φυλακή, καθώς επίσης και αυτά που σκέφτονται οι φίλοι του για το συγκεκριμένο στενάχωρο γεγονός, αλλά και για τη φιλία που τους δένει. Μπορεί να πει κανείς ότι το βιβλίο έχει και κάποιες υπαρξιακές ανησυχίες, χωρίς όμως να γίνεται πολύ βαρύ. Η γραφή είναι πάρα πολύ καλή, έντονη και οξυδερκής, με ρεαλιστικές περιγραφές και ολοζώντανους διαλόγους.
Οπότε, επειδή πραγματικά δέθηκα με την ιστορία και τους χαρακτήρες, αλλά και επειδή με ξετρέλανε το όλο στιλ και ύφος γραφής, θα βάλω πέντε αστεράκια (τεσσεράμισι για την ακρίβεια). Κάποια στιγμή στο άμεσο μέλλον θα ξαναδώ την ταινία, τόσο για να κάνω και τη σύγκριση μεταξύ των δυο, όσο και γιατί είναι από τις πολύ καλές δραματικές ταινίες του 21ου αιώνα.
February 1, 2017
One of those hip New York books by a young waspy guy that is supposed to be chic. In this case, it actually was; very, very, good work with fleshed out and thoughtful characters.
Benioff incidentally is one of the show-runners of Game of Thrones.
July 28, 2024
i realized half way through this that i had seen the movie.
May 29, 2013
Pre-reading: This has long been one of my top ten favorite movies. Top ten may not sound like much, but this is coming from someone with a dvd collection topping 600. You see, I used to work in a store that sold used albums (ironic since I don't know shit about music) as well as a few movies and video games. My corpocratic tyrant of a boss typically paid me not in cash, but in movies, and that is the story of how my collection began. (Aside: that entire aside was simply so I could take a jab at Geoff--ah, it's good to be back on GR!)
Anyway, for some reason I never had any desire to actually read this. That is until I read City of Thieves.
So far, pleased I picked it up.
Post-reading: Yes! This is exactly what I needed--a book that, even though I knew everything that would happen, kept me wanting to pick it up. A book that, despite being busy and on vacation, I read in two days. A book that, despite having a pretty crappy hotel internet connection, I want to at least rate and (half-heartedly) review right away.
I really admire Benioff's ability to tell a gripping story. The movie changed nearly nothing--even the dialogue. More praise for the movie: perhaps it's because I saw it before reading the book, but the casting of every character (major and minor) is perfect! Finally, like in the movie, the ending is just phenomenal, very touching, very poignant, very make-you-get-just-a-little-choked-up and all without being anything overly dramatic. One could argue that it's even sort of an open-ending, and that is even more perfect for the book since the last chapter is 24. Get it? The 25th chapter isn't written. Get it? Waaaay better and more meaningful than the chapter gimmick in this stinker.
Anyway, for some reason I never had any desire to actually read this. That is until I read City of Thieves.
So far, pleased I picked it up.
Post-reading: Yes! This is exactly what I needed--a book that, even though I knew everything that would happen, kept me wanting to pick it up. A book that, despite being busy and on vacation, I read in two days. A book that, despite having a pretty crappy hotel internet connection, I want to at least rate and (half-heartedly) review right away.
I really admire Benioff's ability to tell a gripping story. The movie changed nearly nothing--even the dialogue. More praise for the movie: perhaps it's because I saw it before reading the book, but the casting of every character (major and minor) is perfect! Finally, like in the movie, the ending is just phenomenal, very touching, very poignant, very make-you-get-just-a-little-choked-up and all without being anything overly dramatic. One could argue that it's even sort of an open-ending, and that is even more perfect for the book since the last chapter is 24. Get it? The 25th chapter isn't written. Get it? Waaaay better and more meaningful than the chapter gimmick in this stinker.
July 20, 2013
I am amazed that a book with such a simple plot in which very little happens could be so very compelling. The reason is that the author created realistic and interesting characters. It is the last day before Monty goes to federal prison for seven years for drug dealing. You experience his thoughts and the thoughts of his two best friends, Jakob and Frank. The latter two, as well as Jakob's "mentor", an older teacher, seem to illustrate the statement that "most men lead lives of quiet desperation." Monty on the other hand seems to have lived an almost charmed life; he is attractive and charismatic. A deep childhood loss, however, has marked Monty deeply, the extent of which we don't see until later on in the book. The prologue is very important in letting us see a glimpse of Monty's deepest desire -- to be a hero, to save a life. The recurring theme of his desire to be a firefighter appears several times, each time seeming sadder and sadder as we realize the contrast between his childhood aspirations and his present circumstances. The night closing in and the blizzard burying the city both reinforce the sense of being trapped without any way of escape. Monty, no matter his charm, has no more true options except jail.
His thoughts at the end of the book as so poignant they brought tears to my eyes. I grieved for the lost potential of a criminal. (This book is definitely not for the sensitive as there are many objectionable elements.)
His thoughts at the end of the book as so poignant they brought tears to my eyes. I grieved for the lost potential of a criminal. (This book is definitely not for the sensitive as there are many objectionable elements.)
August 29, 2023
I’m not sure how I feel about David Benioff as a writer (a book writer, I know exactly how I feel about season 8 of GoT), because City of Thieves is one of my favorite books in the last few years. And while I liked the style in this, I’m not sure I liked the story all that much after getting into it.
I think the characters were really well developed, despite the fact that the story is almost entirely contained within a 24 hour period. But for whatever reason, I really didn’t think it ended in the right place despite that. Because we get almost no resolution on anything, it leaves you with far more questions than answers. Even an epilogue for certain things probably would be appreciated, even if you want to leave Monty’s ending where it was there are a lot of implications for the other characters that weren’t explored. They basically just disappeared off the page at one point and were never seen again. So I think it has to be 2.5 stars rounded up because of the ending, but for me enjoying the writing style as well.
I think the characters were really well developed, despite the fact that the story is almost entirely contained within a 24 hour period. But for whatever reason, I really didn’t think it ended in the right place despite that. Because we get almost no resolution on anything, it leaves you with far more questions than answers. Even an epilogue for certain things probably would be appreciated, even if you want to leave Monty’s ending where it was there are a lot of implications for the other characters that weren’t explored. They basically just disappeared off the page at one point and were never seen again. So I think it has to be 2.5 stars rounded up because of the ending, but for me enjoying the writing style as well.
December 15, 2019
A tough,sad, claustrophobic tale, filled with dark humor. An urban romp around the 'burbs of New York city. A well written debut, who became a well know screenwriter. **and, I never saw the movie**
May 21, 2020
So I'd seen the movie years ago but didn't really remember the premise at all. I really enjoyed the somewhat simple idea behind it: the 24 hours with a man and those around him the day before he heads off to prison. I was expecting flashbacks with heists and action, but this story is pensive and reflective. It's real, it has heart and really great character and relationship building for somewhat short novel.
September 11, 2012
Taking place during a 25-hour period, the novel presents the story of Monty Brogan, all-around good-looking bad boy who's managed to get himself arrested for drug dealing. And he's headed to jail after one more night of celebration. During the course of the story, we're introduced to his girlfriend and his two best friends. In 210 pages, I felt like I knew these characters, truly understood them. This is no small accomplishment for any writer. The characters are all tragically flawed, especially Monty. But as flawed and pathetic as they are, they're likable and they seem more realistic for all those faults.
Benioff is a clever storyteller, a weaver of tight tales that somehow manage to remain ambiguous. The reader is never sure exactly where the author is going with this and, if you're like me, you will not have anticipated the conclusion.
More proof here that David Benioff is one of the brightest lights in contemporary American fiction. And if you've read "City of Thieves", you should be equally impressed with Benioff's versatility in delivering a distant and unimaginably bleak place in a different time, and a darkly humorous and meaningful story. Put them both on your short list.
Benioff is a clever storyteller, a weaver of tight tales that somehow manage to remain ambiguous. The reader is never sure exactly where the author is going with this and, if you're like me, you will not have anticipated the conclusion.
More proof here that David Benioff is one of the brightest lights in contemporary American fiction. And if you've read "City of Thieves", you should be equally impressed with Benioff's versatility in delivering a distant and unimaginably bleak place in a different time, and a darkly humorous and meaningful story. Put them both on your short list.
July 27, 2020
3.5* This short book really packs a punch! A good story leaving you with a bit of a nebulous ending, but well worth it. The one major flaw is that the book is too short - more could have been added on various storylines. Oh well... All in all a good read with great characters (especially Jakob). If you want a MUCH better book by Benioff, read City of Thieves (one of my all time favorites).
November 30, 2018
Raramente un libro ha scatenato in me così tante emozioni. Rabbia, fastidio, tristezza, compassione. Fiumi di lacrime per la perdita e il dolore che il protagonista ha affrontato stoicamente. Per suo padre. Per i suoi amici. Un libercolo che da tanto per chi come me e come lui la vita in un modo o nell’altro la vive. Senza pensarci troppo. Doyle un amico. Non un sempre animale.
June 13, 2019
This was a truly outstanding book. Several chapters I went back and reread to think about how certain effects were achieved. If you're a writer, this one is a good one to add to your list. Highly recommended.
January 4, 2016
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Brilliant gritty first novel by Benihoff and a great way to start off the new year with a 5
July 5, 2021
I must admit, I had a hard time rating this. My thoughts are everywhere!
I really appreciated the emotional aspect of this one. I grew to know and understand some of the characters, and there were some parts that really suckered you, moments where you really felt the heaviness of their emotions. 💔
I grew tired of the actual story. The night was long, and it went alot of places, but I became bored throughout most of the first half. 🤷♀️
Although I was tired of the story, I did enjoy visualizing the book in my mind. It read just like a movie, or rather, it actually somewhat reminded me of Gossip Girl! So I wasn't complaining there. 📽
Overall, due to the lacklusterness of the general plot line, I'm rating it lower. I don't believe I would recommend this one, therefore it's 3 stars from me. ⭐⭐⭐
I really appreciated the emotional aspect of this one. I grew to know and understand some of the characters, and there were some parts that really suckered you, moments where you really felt the heaviness of their emotions. 💔
I grew tired of the actual story. The night was long, and it went alot of places, but I became bored throughout most of the first half. 🤷♀️
Although I was tired of the story, I did enjoy visualizing the book in my mind. It read just like a movie, or rather, it actually somewhat reminded me of Gossip Girl! So I wasn't complaining there. 📽
Overall, due to the lacklusterness of the general plot line, I'm rating it lower. I don't believe I would recommend this one, therefore it's 3 stars from me. ⭐⭐⭐
June 2, 2018
It was very recent that I realized that Spike Lee’s best film 25th Hour was an adaptation and as I did, simply ordered the book oversea...
Fantastic vivid ballad to friendship, New York and relations, my insufficiency on slang vocabulary did not diminish the pleasure I have tasted.
The only piece of art that make me weep in different disciplines, I thought for the movie version Terrence Blanchard excellent score impressed me as well but having read the book now I understand it is nothing but Monty’s story...
I sincerely wish I was a translator, than translating this into my native language would be my lifetime goal...
Fantastic vivid ballad to friendship, New York and relations, my insufficiency on slang vocabulary did not diminish the pleasure I have tasted.
The only piece of art that make me weep in different disciplines, I thought for the movie version Terrence Blanchard excellent score impressed me as well but having read the book now I understand it is nothing but Monty’s story...
I sincerely wish I was a translator, than translating this into my native language would be my lifetime goal...
December 30, 2022
Good book, quick read. I initially found the writing a bit off-putting, like if an amateur writer wrote it (albeit a talented one). Maybe I'm biased against Benioff though; the movie has been a favorite for years, and I only found out recently that he wrote the book. But the plot and the character development is spectacular. Perfect ending.
August 31, 2023
It was kinda hard for me to get into this one but I came around in the end and really enjoyed the story. I love the ending also. Not City of Thieves level for me but a fun read!
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