Thursday, July 1, 2010

Book Report: The Girl Who Played With Fire By Stieg Larsson


Ok, I think I said, when I reviewed the first of the books in this trilogy, that you pretty much have to read these books if you plan to remain relevant in our society. They are the thing. Everyone is reading them. EVERYONE. It is a Swedish series, and the Swedes have made a corresponding movie series which is only playing at the Belcourt in Nashville. Supposedly, Daniel Craig and Carey Mulligan are going to be in the American version of the series, and I could honestly discuss it for hours.

Now in the first book, Mikael Blomkvist ( journalist at a the cutting edge business publication, Millenium) is coerced into solving a mystery about a disappearance on a family compound. Mikael Blomkvist ends up engaging Lisbeth Salander and her particular skill set to solve the mystery. It is a surprising mystery with many twists and surprising turns. The mystery was very unique, and I feel the Lisbeth Salander, with her waify looks, tattoos, government labeled as mentally disabled is a really novel character. She is strong, yet Larrson allows you to see her insecurities as well.
Anyway, in book two, Lisbeth has broken all ties with Blomkvist. Blomkvist does not know why, and Lisbeth has chosen to disappear rather than communicate with him. HOWEVER, their lives become intertwined when two individuals working on a story for Millenium are murdered in their home. At the same time a third victim is found murdered in his home. This victim has close ties to Lisbeth Salander, and the three murders are quickly linked to her. Blomkvist is certain she is innocent, and the two try to solve the mystery while Lisbeth is in hiding. They communicate only through cryptic emails and again manage to solve a seemingly impossible mystery that involves a tall giant with a disorder that makes him oblivious to physical pain.

Doesn't that sound exciting?? The most exciting thing you have ever heard?? Are you going to run right out and get the book??

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