Un libro di avventure più che un giallo, che racconta in modo fantasioso la difficile vita di Ci Song, considerato uno dei fondatori delle scienze forensi. Dietro il testo traspare il lungo lavoro preparatorio dell'autore, che cerca di ricostruire in maniera verosimile la Cina dell'epoca. Al povero Ci Song ne capitano di tutti i colori (un po' troppe), sia in positivo che in negativo e l'effetto finale è quello di un racconto di avventure per ragazzi. The Corpse Reader isn't a book I'd normally seek out on my own, but when I heard it mentioned on the Book Riot podcast, I was intrigued enough to read it. What's most interesting is that the book is inspired by a real person. I can't speak to the historical accuracy of the book, but it did the feel of 12th century China. I'm definitely curious about Ci, and the sources Garrido used, because I'd really like to learn more about Song Ci. It, unfortunately, wasn't included in the audio book, so I may have to check out a print or digital version of the book to see if anything's included at the end of the book. It does seem pretty well-researched, and it's pretty detailed while not being boring. You get the right amount of information at the right time, and it was easy to stay interested throughout the book, since I didn't find myself bored at any particular point.I did notice that when we got closer to the ending, it kind of reminded me of an episode of CSI or Law & Order. It's definitely dramatic, but given that Ci seems to be considered the father of forensics, it also seems appropriate. I like that it's a murder mystery set in medieval China, because it's not something I normally read about. Garrido really does seem to be a great story-teller, but at the same time, there was something about this book I couldn't quite connect with. I'm not sure if something was lost in translation, but...there is something about The Corpse Reader that I can't put my finger on. Still, it did seem like it was pretty well translated.As for the narration, I felt like Todd Haberkorn did a pretty good job. I wasn't blown away, but he wasn't horrendous either. Let's Rate It: I liked The Corpse Reader, and it's definitely a book I wouldn't have picked out on my own. It's different in a good way, and I liked the time and setting because it's not what I'd usually go for in historical fiction. The Corpse Reader gets 3 stars.
What do You think about Corpse Reader, The (2011)?
I found this book intriguing, especially given the history of Ci Song.
—Khai
