You Don't Love Me Yet: A Novel

totally underwhelming. And really a little disappointing, considering Lethem's talent.

While not the most engaging of his novels, the characters are interesting enough to pull you through to the end. The novel was kind of advertised as being one about Los Angeles, music, and a kangaroo held hostage in an apartment. Well: sort of; yeah, I guess; barely. Certainly taking place in L.A., the novel doesn't make L.A. a "character" in the detective novel/noir sense that...more

While not the most engaging of his novels, the characters are interesting enough to pull you through to the end. The novel was kind of advertised as being one about Los Angeles, music, and a kangaroo held hostage in an apartment. Well: sort of; yeah, I guess; barely. Certainly taking place in L.A., the novel doesn't make L.A. a "character" in the detective novel/noir sense that Brooklyn played in Lethem's "Motherless Brooklyn" or even L.A. did in Chandler's "The Big Sleep." It honestly could have been set in Detroit and not affected the story much. It is about music in a quirky way; it's more about being in the shakiest of relationship, the type that is called "being in a band." Unfortunately, it's less about music as a force--the creation and experience of it (though the band's first performance is pretty well-written)--and more about the interpersonal relationships that commonly (and predictably) develop from a co-ed band. And the kangaroo...like I said, barely. It was only there to really add a character point to one of the main players (HA!) of the book and wasn't in any real way a major plot (or thematic) point. All this sucks, yup, however it is written in Lethem's quirky style though it feels he's trying to reign it back a bit. As mentioned above, this really comes through in his characters who are all so different and unique that the book seems to be more about them than the very confused main character. So, not his best and not necessarily one needs to pick up, but a perfectly enjoyable time while you're there.   hide

Letdown. The enflamed imagination apparent in his previous stuff make way for "satire", which is no excuse for the flat characters. At least it's a quick read.

funny, honset, pure joy. I really recmmond this book .

Now I know why Lethem won the MacArthur grant...his highly competent prose and superior character development managed to turn this cliched and exploitative plot, setting and story into something readable. I would pass...

this book is too pop arty and full of contrived coolness. Motherless Brooklyn was much better. At least I go this one signed by the author.

Not as good as Motherless Brooklyn or Fortress of Solitude, but still not bad

Brimming with coolness. this rather flimsy storyline offers some interesting ideas and a nice, light read. We follow the whiskey gusling, multiple orgasming bass player of a nameless band as she dodges ex-lovers, depressed marsupials and alluring complainers as she seeks satisfaction and artistic inspiration.

Not Lethem's best. Clever idea, but Los Angeles hipsters are just too boring.