Hello all, and welcome back!
Before I even delve into today’s subject matter, I would like to address the question of why there is a new post so soon. Now, the title of this blog most likely gave you a good idea of what you’re in for, but let me elaborate what this post means for this blog.
Due to my limited posting schedule this year in conjunction with my university lifestyle (Which will most likely escalate when I have to do that eight-page paper…), I have two choices: make blog posts once every few months and leave you all in the dust, or try out something a little more manageable. As I am focusing my studies on English, that means I’m going to read a lot. I am a fairly slow reader, as I like my novels to last me well into a month. However, at my current pace, I have read three plays, three novels, and one epic (and I’m currently reading two more novels) as of yet, so I had an idea. For every novel/movie/television series/video game/play/whatever I experience, I am going to write a quick pseudo-review/first impression post on it.
Here is how that will work: I will give a spoiler-free(ish) overview on my overall impression of the piece, as well as a brief run-through of what I both liked and disliked. I will then sum things up, and be off with it. These posts will be very short, and as with every review, this is my opinion. I feel as if that should be obvious, but I wanted to have that disclaimer regardless. You can feel free to debate my opinions in the comments, as I love to hear other points of view! I should also add that if my opinion changes over time, I will come back and update the post. Don’t worry about having to always check; I will point out any changes to previous posts in future ones.
Anyways, that’s the game plan. Let’s get started.
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The Thirty-Nine Steps (by John Buchan) is a spy thriller novella that concerns itself with protagonist Richard Hannay as he is pulled into a dire situation, coming to gain the knowledge of a political assassination involving a Greek official. He puts on a game of cat-and-mouse with the British police for a murder he did not commit, as well as a mysterious organization that seeks to invoke a grand scheme that has the potential to change European history.
One interesting part of this novella is that it pioneered the spy thriller genre, which may be what makes-or-breaks it. If you have read plenty of other novels of the type, The Thirty-Nine Steps may prove to be excruciatingly simple in comparison and a slog to get through as a result. One reason as to why is the characters. If you wish to experience the thrill of emotional and deeply-characterized personas through tense situations, you will inevitably be disappointed. Every character here serves the plot and does not go through any significant development including the protagonist. Richard Hannay’s exploits are nothing to be attached to, as there is no emotional investment that is directed towards his goals and endangered position.
To me, this slight criticism comes from my point of view that emotional storytelling is key in telling a character-driven narrative. However, I almost feel as if it did not matter in comparison to the entertainment value of the novella. The narrative of The Thirty-Nine Steps is straightforward and simplistic, and the mystery unfolds at a comfortable pace. Each step of the journey is filled with quirky character interactions that do not overstay their welcome, being paced quickly without losing footing. The novella did not feel as if a stupendous amount was omitted to fit a certain word count or too barebones either for that matter. Action drives the brisk plot as well, meaning that at no point did I feel bored as I experienced Hannay’s plight through England and Scotland.
The Thirty-Nine Steps was an enjoyable read, but I am aware that it is not for everyone. If one seeks a short weekend/evening read to power through, this novella is perfect if one also does not expect perfection. There is nothing to give any lasting impressions after a read, but it is nothing to regret either.
I should finally add that there are many adaptations of this story, including an Alfred Hitchcock adaptation. There are also four sequels that seem to be full-length novels, of which I have not read at this point. I have heard the Hitchcock film is phenomenal, but that should not come across as a surprise.
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With that, we come to a close. If you have suggestions/feedback, please do not hesitate to give them in the comments. These posts will be very informal, and I do not plan on giving any lengthy breakdowns (or actual meaty reviews) if that is your suggestion. Those will be longer posts, as not every story is worthy of a thousand or more words dedicated to sufficient examination.
Either than that, have a great night! 🙂
stadarooni 
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