Audiobook thoughts: Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan

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Four years ago I bought the audiobook of Crazy Rich Asians when it was the Audible daily deal. This month, I finally listened to it. These are the things I learned:

1. There are A LOT of characters. Don't let it worry you. In the first chapter featuring all of the mothers, I almost gave up or started over. Keep listening. The more important characters emerge, and I wasn't confused. Part of that is due to:

2. Lynn Chen's narration is excellent. She utilizes voices so well, I wasn't even aware of them. I soon could tell who was talking simply through her performance, which makes me sad because:

3. She doesn't narrate the next two books in the series. This book is the last one she narrated. I hope it's because her acting career has really taken off and she doesn't have time.

4. Speaking of the next two books, this book's ending is: abrupt and unsatisfying. I looked at my phone and couldn't believe the book was over. It begs the reader to start the second book soon, which makes me wonder:

5. Will the film have the same ending? I typically prefer films keep a book's ending, but I am open to a more fitting ending.

6. Although I'm not traveling in China or Singapore, I'm really glad I listened to this novel while in Asia. It was an entertaining read with fascinating characters, but it was also an illuminating glimpse into the Asian elite.

Rating: 4 out of 5
Length: 546 pages (13 hours 53 minutes)
Publication date: June 11, 2013
Source: personal copy

 Want to read for yourself? Buy Crazy Rich Asians from Amazon (Kindle edition.)

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