Book Review: Benny & Shrimp by Katarina Mazetti
Benny And Shrimp
I read Benny & Shrimp by Katarina Mazetti in two quick sittings. I really enjoyed Benny & Shrimp. It’s a quirky story of love between a farmer (Benny) and a librarian (Shrimp). I liked that this didn’t read like a cheesy romance novel, bodices did not rip, chests did not heave.
Synopsis from goodreads.com
An international sensation, this addictively readable tale asks the question: Why is it so impossible to get a relationship between two middle-aged misfits to work? The answer lies in the story of Shrimp, a young widowed librarian with a sharp intellect and a home so tidy that her jam jars are in alphabetical order; Benny, a gentle, overworked milk farmer who fears becoming the village’s Old Bachelor; and an unlikely love that should not be as complicated as it seems. Reminiscent of the works of Carol Shields, this quirky, humorous, beautifully told novel breathes new life into the age-old conundrum that is love.
Benny & Shrimp showcased a messy kind of love where mitigating factors such as different life styles got in the way. I thought that felt real, as people aren’t perfect and in real life people don’t give up everything for love. I also liked that this novel showed how much of a process love is. Again, people don’t just snap their fingers, and boom, love. No, you get to know the person, there has to be chemistry, and THEN love happens.
I liked how Shrimp didn’t want to give up her life in order to fit with Benny’s expectations of a perfect relationship (woman, barefoot, pregnant and in the kitchen). Somehow that appeals to my inner feminist, as I wouldn’t give up my career just to fulfill some man’s ideal.
I think this was definitely a worthy read. I actually really really want the sequel to hurry up and be translated so I know what happens. While reading this book, I would suggest you drink a bottle of Swedish Hill wine: Jackass Red. It’s got a delicious unique flavor, goes down smooth and easy.
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April (Books&Wine) – who has written 1066 posts on Good Books And Good Wine.
April is 24 years old. She is an educator. In her free time she can be found reading, working out, or eating junk food. She often wears her sunglasses at night.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I have this one on my list, but I wasn't sure if it was good. Thanks for the review.
~Lindsay
JABA
I had seen this one and wondered about it..I will add it to my TBR list..Thanks for the awesome review!
Great review! I never heard of this book before, so thank you!
It really sounds good and i'm gonna put it on my wishlist
This book sounds like a really interesting read. I like books that feature unexpected pairings – they are the best kind. Plus, I like the fact that the book features a strong woman who doesn't just give in to fitting a stereotypical role.