Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
39(39%)
4 stars
31(31%)
3 stars
30(30%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 14,2025
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I've read the original in my young adulthood, which was 10 years after I became a fan of the Russian translation. The Russian translation, although one of the less equivocal and more violent children's books published during the Soviet and early-post-Soviet period, is still significantly tamer than the original.

Just like the "Harry Potter" saga's French edition, the translation enhanced and transformed the nature of the book. It evolved from an obscure salacious semi-political parody into a recognizable one, and we could even contend that it became a sort of Platonic ideal of children's books concerning the differences in cultures and societies.

I suspect the same might be true for the French, Japanese, and Norwegian translations of it. I am capable of reading them, but I haven't done so yet up to this point.

Perhaps these translations also bring unique interpretations and improvements to the original work, offering readers different perspectives and enriching the overall understanding of the story. It would be interesting to explore these translations and compare them with the original and the Russian translation I am familiar with.

July 14,2025
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18th Century English political satire was truly at its zenith.

It was a time when the art of using satire to comment on the political landscape reached new heights. For those individuals who have a deep knowledge of the history books of England, the political allegory present during this era is bound to tickle the funny bone.

The satirists of the 18th century were masters at using wit, humor, and exaggeration to expose the follies and vices of the political establishment. Their works not only provided entertainment but also served as a powerful tool for social and political criticism.

Through their satirical pieces, they were able to shine a light on the corruption, greed, and incompetence that often plagued the political sphere. This form of satire not only amused the readers but also made them think about the state of their society and the need for change.

Overall, 18th Century English political satire was a remarkable and influential genre that continues to be studied and appreciated today.
July 14,2025
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It's truly a remarkable book. At the very beginning, I didn't have a favorable impression of it. However, the reason for this was that I was approaching it as a mere adventure book, rather than perceiving it for what it truly is - a satire. This particular book serves as a scathing satire that effectively criticizes the scientists, philosophers, and politicians of that era in England. It's simply amazing how the author manages to convey such powerful messages through this literary work. The way in which the various characters and their actions are portrayed provides a vivid and thought-provoking commentary on the society of that time. It makes one stop and reflect on the absurdities and follies that often exist within different aspects of our own lives and society. Overall, it's a book that demands to be read and understood for its true value and significance.

July 14,2025
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I found myself in a bit of a conundrum.

I started reading something, and initially, I was really enjoying it. The words seemed to flow smoothly, and the story or the content had a certain charm.

However, as I got further along, I realized that I just couldn't finish it.

It didn't have that addictive quality that would make me want to keep coming back for more.

Maybe it lacked that special spark, that element that hooks the reader and makes them eager to turn the next page.

Despite the initial enjoyment, it ultimately failed to hold my attention and keep me engaged until the very end.

I'm left wondering what it was that was missing, what could have made it a more compelling read.

Perhaps it was the pacing, or maybe the characters weren't developed enough.

Whatever the reason, it's a bit disappointing because I had such high hopes at the beginning.

But alas, sometimes things just don't work out the way we expect them to.

July 14,2025
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Fantastic adventure!

Embark on a wonderful and evocative journey into the dream world of the enlightenment. This adventure is like no other, taking you on a path filled with mystery, excitement, and self-discovery. As you enter this dream world, you will be greeted by a plethora of strange and beautiful landscapes, each one more captivating than the last. The colors are vivid, the sounds are enchanting, and the atmosphere is palpable. You will meet a variety of characters, some friendly and some not so friendly, but all of them will have something to teach you. Along the way, you will face challenges and obstacles that will test your courage and your wits. But with each victory, you will grow stronger and more enlightened. This is a journey that you will never forget, a journey that will change you forever.
July 14,2025
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The first time I attempted to read this for high school English, I was presented with a version that was printed exactly as Swift had written it. It had strange spelling and capital letters in the middle of sentences.

I simply could not get through it. It was extremely challenging and confusing. However, once I managed to find a more comprehensible version, I was able to make it through the text.

Despite that, I never truly enjoyed any part of it. It just didn't hold my interest or engage me in the way that other works did.

Interestingly, though, I absolutely adore the animated film based on it. The film brought the story to life in a way that the written text couldn't for me. It was visually appealing and had a charm of its own. I would say that while the reading experience was less than satisfactory, the animated film was a real delight.

"All's well!" as they say.
July 14,2025
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This is an extremely interesting story that revolves around a man's travels and his encounters with people who are vastly different from himself.

It presents a unique and somewhat challenging reading experience. The language used is a bit out of the ordinary, which can make it a bit difficult to initially grasp. However, the main obstacle lies in the writing style itself, which is rather hard to follow at times.

To be completely honest, although I managed to read the entire book, I still find myself unsure if I truly understood every single aspect of it. I'm certain that there are some deeper symbolic meanings hidden within the text that I didn't even begin to uncover during my first reading.

Despite the difficulties, this story has piqued my curiosity enough to make me think that it might be well worth another read sometime in the future. Maybe with a second attempt, I'll be able to unlock the full depth and beauty of this engaging narrative.
July 14,2025
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This is just a review of Gulliver's Travels.

There are two ways to approach this book: one is to view it as satire, and the other is to see it as a fantasy/travel story. If I were living in 18th century Britain, I'm certain I would have relished all the subtle jabs and elements of satire within it. Regrettably, I don't, so I was only able to grasp and appreciate a small portion of the wit.

Consequently, I read it solely as a fictional narrative, which is precisely what it wasn't intended to be. You gain very little understanding of who the narrator is as an individual; the people he meets are clearly meant to be satirical, yet the reader can't fully comprehend. In my view, when fantasy elements exist solely for the sake of satire, they cease to be fantasy. There was more emphasis on the culture of these beings (for satirical purposes) than on any actual plot.

Not to mention, among all the strange places he visits, one of them is Japan, which allegedly has trade relations with some of these fantastical creatures, and there is just so much that is amiss with that.

For those well-versed in the British political history of this era, I'm sure the book is a delight. And if I were reading it during that time period, as part of the intended audience, I might have appreciated it more. However, reading it as a work of fiction, I found it both dull and absurd, and overall, I found it to be distinctly unenjoyable.
July 14,2025
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This is a remarkable book that everyone should have the opportunity to read at some stage in their life.

I was truly astonished on several occasions when I realized that some of the concepts I believed to be quite novel had actually been discussed during Swift's era.

By delving into this book, you can obtain a vivid and comprehensive understanding of what society was engaged in and how little certain aspects have evolved over the course of time.

Similar to many classic works of literature, we often assume that we are familiar with the story until we actually read it. It is only then that we can uncover the minute details concealed within the broader narrative, which serve to make the story complete and authentic.

Whether you choose to visit the library, a bookstore, or download it electronically, I highly encourage you to read this book. It will undoubtedly provide you with valuable insights and a deeper appreciation for the power of literature.
July 14,2025
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**"The Special Place of 'Gulliver's Travels' in My Heart"**

Gulliver's Travels is a series of consecutive events on the face of humanity on Friday. When the rational Houyhnhnms reject Gulliver gently, it's because they are more prepared and advanced than him. So, let's count, dear "Gulliver," your four voyages. It's very sad.


These stories have a special place in my heart. They were my first long journeys into the world of fantasy and boundless imagination. Through the delicate translation of the complete Arabic version by Kilani, I read it in my tenth year in pure Arabic with correct spelling. And my enthusiasm didn't fade.


I then read its abridged version in English and later its complete version at the age of 30.


I liked the tiny people of Lilliput, their silly customs, and traditions. Also, the Brobdingnagian giants who revealed Gulliver's folly and delusion. And the philosophers, the sorcerers, and the immortal Struldbrugs.


Finally, despite his profound philosophical imagination, Swift didn't achieve his goal of the war he declared on humanity. His book was published in many editions, but everyone laughed at the adventures and considered them oddities about the follies of other peoples.


And so Swift left silently, having lost his mind.


The style is old and in the form of memoirs, and so is the language. Therefore, it may be easier for some to read it abridged as it belongs to the year 1700. But the follies, the vanities, and the wars, they are what they are and will remain so.

July 14,2025
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Would be 5 stars but I still don’t know which way you’re supposed to crack a damn egg.


This statement shows a certain level of frustration or confusion. While the person might have otherwise been inclined to give a full five-star rating, there is this one lingering issue. The inability to determine the proper way to crack an egg seems like a minor thing, but it can actually have an impact on the overall experience.


Perhaps they were expecting clear instructions or some sort of guidance on this simple yet essential task. Without it, they are left feeling a bit lost. It could also be that they have tried different methods and none of them seem to work quite right.


In conclusion, while the rest of the experience might have been great, this one small detail is preventing them from giving a perfect rating. It goes to show that even the tiniest of things can sometimes make a big difference.
July 14,2025
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Another one that I'm truly glad to have completed.

Alright, I understand. You've placed your main character, which is yourself, in a completely distinct society with the intention of comparing it to, or perhaps even making fun of, your own. And from time to time, you insert those snarky commentaries about your political opponents.

However, I can't help but wonder, do you really have to measure absolutely everything?

This brings me to the 2019 Extreme Book Nerd Challenge - Classic novel. It seems that within the pages of this classic, there are layers of meaning and exploration.

The author's choice to set the main character in a different society adds an interesting dimension. It allows for a deeper examination of our own society through contrast.

But the constant measuring and the snarky remarks make me question the true purpose of the story. Is it simply to mock or is there a more profound message hidden within?

As I continue to reflect on this classic novel, I hope to uncover the answers and gain a better understanding of its significance.
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