The Great Gatsby

I first read The Great Gatsby in middle school. As a young girl, I didn't appreciate its lessons of the great American dream. So when news of a new movie releasing hit, I knew I had to re-read this classic. Here's why:

• Themes: Greed, lust, hedonism, corruption, freedom and social classes are explored. These themes are as prominent today as they were in the Jazz Age.
• Movie Adaptation: I always like to read the book before watching the movie adaptation to see how it measures up. I have high hopes for Baz Lurhmann's film with a soundtrack produced by Jay-Z.
• Summer Setting: The book takes place in a hot humid summer. Pool and lawn parties. Sundresses. Sailing boats. There is no better book to ring in the warmer seasons.
• Read with Eyes & Mind of a Bibliophile: When I read The Great Gatsby before, I just wanted to finish so I could write my book report and turn in the assignment on time. But now as a matured reader, I can appreciate the character development, understand the plot and be affected by the tragic ending. This classic deserves to be a great American novel.

My official opinion of Baz Luhrmann's movie is two hearts up. I liked it. I enjoy the soundtrack and will likely play it all summer. Leo is a great actor in any role and he played Jay Gatsby well. The main character, Nick, was played by an actor I am not familiar with, but he held his own. The story was...well...like the classic book. But to see the costumes and Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age style was what I liked best. Ain't no party like a 3D Gatsby party!

Title: The Great Gatsby
Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Published: April 1925 & May 2013
Pages: 134
Edition: eBook
Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥