Life of Pi

I've just started reading Life of Pi, by Yann Martel. I'm into Part II, at about 120 pages. Here is a book that, when it was released, seemed to get much acclaim and awards. I picked it up at bookstores, reread the jacket at libraries, but for some reason I just didn't know if I would like it. I heard a few good reviews from people whose opinions I respect, so this past holiday season I put it on my Amazon Wish List and got it from the hubby.

After nearly 28 years of living with my gut, I should know it's usually right. There was a reason why I hadn't read the book yet. So far, I've found it to be just OK. It's getting a little more engaging, but I'm still feeling mediocre about it. This frustrates me, especially when I have the impression that everyone else loves it. Am I missing something? The hubby could tell I was a little disconcerted when I wasn't super enthused to read last night. When I love a book I'm reading, I can't wait to get back to it. This one - eh.

Being frustrated, I perused Amazon reviews. More than 1,800 people have reviewed this book on Amazon. Nearly 1,000 gave it 5 stars, however more than 400 gave it 3 stars or less. I read a few reviews from each category, and while the 5-star givers made me feel like I was missing something great, the 3-star givers spoke to my feelings so far.

Now, several reviews said it was a tough book to get in to, but at the end is the pay off. So, I'm going to keep reading it - like I said, it's getting a bit more engaging - and we'll see how I feel in the end.

So, my question to you: Have you ever gone against popular opinion when reading a book? Either you hated a book everyone loves, or loved a story everyone hates? If you have insights to Life of Pi, feel free to post them here, or wait until I've delved deeper and write my next post.