To be fair, I'm a fan of Jennifer Egan's writing. That said, The Candy House may confuse many because there are many characters. Each chapter is a short story with alternating timelines and overlapping characters. Touted as a follow up to Welcome to the Goon Squad, you don't necessarily have to read that book to appreciate this one. What was so striking to me -beyond the commentary of social media and allowing technology to invade our thoughts - was Egan's ability to write about everyday people and the absurd, frightening future she envisions. A work of genius that will not be for everyone. Strap yourself in. Enjoy the ride.

3/4 in and still waiting for any character and/or plot development. At least one full chapter is unreadable and, frankly, exhausted my patience to the point of annoyance. Maybe the final 150 pages will redeem it but I’m not optimistic. Finished it. I was right.

If you loved Goon Squad you will not be disappointed. This book consumed me for a week. I wanted to do nothing else. I need to go back and read both books in order now. I’m blown away.

Hard to follow