I wanted to read this series because my 13 year old daughter, who normally isn't that thrilled with reading, has devoured it. I wanted to see what all the fuss was about.
I would like to first comment on the series in general so far. I like the idea of this story-- a high school girl, her small town, vampires and werewolves. It is rich with possibilities. Watching how these creatures reveal themselves (or not) is interesting. I'm usually not a paranormal fan but if done well I will like it--Salem's Lot by Stephen King, for example. The author's take on both vampires and werewolves is fresh.
However...you knew this was coming...I really have a hard time liking Bella. Since the story is from her point of view, this is a big problem. She is many things a teenager is and then some. Selfish, self-absorbed, whiny, co-dependent, etc. When she drops all of her friends for Edward or even Jacob, that hits a nerve with me as I have seen this happen so many times over the years. Interestingly, those relationships never seemed to work out and so they would come crawling back until the next guy came along. Is it admirable to drop everyone but the guy you are involved with? Doesn't seem like a healthy relationship to me. Perhaps the biggest irritation for me is the way Meyer makes Bella the damsel in distress. Is this her ideal of the perfect female? Fragile and in need of a strong male to rescue the lady who is continuously getting herself into trouble? There isn't even any humor in this like the Janet Evanovich series. Doing it a few times can be interesting to the plot but not all the time. That type of writing isn't very inspiring or fresh. Lastly, she can get on my nerves when she doesn't understand how her actions continually impact others negatively, like her dad or the Cullens. Why isn't she learning from this? She is supposed to be smart, right?
I am so glad this series of books is getting teen girls--and their moms-- to read. I just hope they aren't getting the wrong messages about what a healthy relationship is. I understand the entertainment value of the books and try not to take it too seriously. I guess it's the hype I don't get when I consider all my quibbles. I also feel there could have been better editing to cut out some fat. Oh well. I liked the movie,
Twilight, a lot. In fact, I liked it better than the book.
New Moon was pretty good although it lost me a bit at the end. I prefer the cozy setting of Forks and look forward to getting back there in Eclipse. I hope the characters will continue to evolve and become both more clear and likable, especially Bella.
New Moon rating: B-
