So many people are hearing about this book, picking it up, and realizing that getting through the first 80 or so pages is like trying to hold on to Proteus when he’s changing from a greasy pig to a wet seal and back again. (We’re reading the Odyssey in English right now-that should be enough of an explanation for my choice in metaphor.) But believe me when I say this: putting the time in to get through the beginning of this book is worth it.
When I like a book, I tend to expect everyone else to like it too. But I do realize that people have different tastes, and that is exactly why I am so set on advertising this book to you all. I have never read another book that is so in tune with the interests of so many different people. There is something for everyone; if you're a fan of, say, Freakonomics and Superfreakonomics or The Economist, you'll be instantly taken in by the details of the Swedish financial history. If you're reaction is, "Boring. Where's the girl with the dragon tattoo?" Just you wait. There's drama, vengeance, murder, mystery, romance, money stealing, tattooing, and a lot of hacking. There are rogue forces taking on thieves, killers, and corrupt, power hungry, filthy rich people. Like I said, something for everyone. If you don’t happen to be interested in any of that, well, all I can do is pity you and your sad, extremely boring life.
So basically, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo is a mystery that manages to tackles a few heavy topics, though not in the most subtle way possible. Bile definitely came up the back of my throat during the Bjurman-Salander rape scene. Larsson all too clearly stated his point of view on the topic of misogyny-especially since the Swedish title means "Men Who Hate Women," so yeah, I think you get the picture. (BTW, if you don't have a stomach for graphic violence and sex, you probably shouldn't read this book.)
By the way, I am by no means telling you this is the best book in the universe. But it was entertaining, and sophisticated at the same time, I really liked it, wasn't my absolute favorite, but I liked it, and I think other people will too.