Breakfast at Tiffany's
Capote, TrumanIn this collection of four short stories, Capote explores the themes of loneliness, social alienation and friendship through the marriage of a prostitute, the incarceration of a long serving prisoner and an innocent friendship that is diminished by time. In "Breakfast at Tiffany's", the longest of the stories, a writer reminisces about the life and times of the dazzling Holly Golightly, a liberal playgirl in 1940s New York. [Small font]
Comments from Groups
Enjoyed by the whole group - a lovely read. Just a short read, but every word hand picked - the stories were like 'jewels'. Wellington 057Very good - everyone enjoyed the stories and the excellent writing. Auckland 090Everyone appreciated the beautiful use of descriptive prose - he made you feel as if you were right there. Motueka 001We found this book to be a sharp contrast to the famous movie adaptation, and we had differing opinions of Holly Golightly's character and motivations, but we universally loved the writing in this classic book. Wellington 116Some thought it beautifully crafted writing - others couldn't get into it at all. Masterton 008A wonderful read. For some, an introduction to Truman Capote, resulting in a wish to read more. A brillliant short story writer with most beautiful words and exquisite descriptions. A joy. Wellington 041
Pages
157
157
Year
1958
1958
Reviews
04-07-2024
A short , quick read - but a classic in its own genre. Good discussion with the movie starring Audrey Hepburn .
18-10-2023
We all thought the writing was brilliant, especially the descriptions of characters. Many changes were made to produce the movie.
10-07-2023
The story provided a lot of discussion amongst the group. All enjoyed reading it, but one member only after the 2nd reading. It was an intense read, and, at times, almost impenetrable. But we all felt he nailed the characters' personalities, particularly Holly's.
10-07-2023
This was the first book in ages that all the group were enthusiastically positive about. We all loved the ease of reading Capote's writing, his ability to create believable characters in a short story, and his easily flowing language. We were all enthused by the story itself, but some were disappointed by the ending. The themes of friendship and love, its use and abuse, were discussed. The consensus was that Capote is a great storyteller.
22-08-2022
Everyone liked the book, kept comparing it to the 1961 film starring Audrey Hepburn. We thought it was a sad story of a girl who was searching for a good life (money, love) but did not realise that she had already lost it. Writing superb and intuitive with tightly written prose.
27-07-2022
There were mixed feelings about the book. Some enjoyed it, and Capote's writing style. Others had high expectations due to it being a well known movie, and were disappointed. We all loved the three short stories, 'A Christmas Morning' in particular.
30-03-2020
Almost none of us had read this, but all very eager - and then loved it. Much to discuss, especially comparing the book to the movie - as always, some very marked differences.
30-03-2020
We enjoyed the way that Holly Golightly was portrayed - quirky, comical, fashionable and very glamorous!
30-03-2020
Most readers said that this novel is one that they could read several times over. The author's writing style was very much enjoyed.
30-03-2020
Nine out of twelve REALLY enjoyed the book; Truman Capote's style and beauty of his writing, the characters, and the descriptive prose. The others, while they appreciated the writing, did not enjoy the story so much - too American, too different.
30-03-2020
We all very much enjoyed Truman Capote's excellent writing; for those who remembered the film, we preferred the book! We loved the short stories - very poignant, especially 'A Christmas Memory' - an autobiographical piece.
30-03-2020
Everyone enjoyed reading this classic novella, and an interesting discussion followed. A good title for the BDS.
30-03-2020
Loved it, especially the short stories - a pleasant surprise that they were there. Book far superior to the movie.
30-03-2020
Those that attended had read the book and enjoyed it. The host got the DVD of 'Breakfast at Tiffany's', and many of us remembered it from our childhoods. The book has survived the test of time and is very readable. Short stories also enjoyable.
27-01-2020
An interesting dive into the past. The short stories were as popular as 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' with the group. Well worth reading.
18-10-2019
We all enjoyed this book and also the other 3 stories very much. Some felt their mental idea of Holly had been compromised by Audrey Hepburn's portrayal in the film. The writing and characterisation was superb and sometimes not so evident in today's novels.
11-04-2019
Fabulous, really moving and subtle and deep.