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BOOK REVIEWS
As a huge bookworm myself, I would like to share some of the novel I have read and what I thought about them.
The Sins of the Mother
Danielle Steel’s novel, The Sins of the Mother, is one of my favourite novels to this day. Her story is both refreshing in terms of the plot and the characters she has integrated into the story. In this book, she incorporates a variety of modern issues in dating and marriages and a diverse set of characters that are relatable. From a personal standpoint of how it related to me, I would like to add that after seeing the life and type of person the protagonist is, I got a better understanding of what it is like being a career-orientated woman. I also find that her daughter, who is an author as well, also helped me in understanding the struggles of an author, along with some insight into the process of traditional publishing. Overall, I would highly suggest reading this book, especially for young adults and up.
The Handmaid's Tale
Margaret Atwood’s book, The Handmaid’s Tale, is nothing less than intriguing. Based on historical events, readers can gain some insight into the cruelty of humanity, and the emotions felt through the protagonist while living in a dystopian society. The author also creatively links these events together, to create one harsh nightmare for the character that continues to captivate all those who read about it. However, Atwood does not write about a damsel in distress, but instead of someone who is working to overcome these horrors that are controlling of her life, while including some elements that make the character seem both realistic and relatable. I also admired the author’s immersive writing, as she makes her readers feel they are in the protagonist’s mind while she is living and reliving her life. Atwood’s writing style is astounding, not to mention inspirational. For those who enjoy reading about oppressive societies, this is a must-read, as her novel is truly remarkable.
A Prayer for Owen Meany
Despite John Irving’s A Prayer for Owen Meany, a longer than average story, there was never a dull moment in even one of those pages. Being a mix of mystery and humour, the beautiful friendship between the protagonist and his best pal is heart warming as it is interesting, especially when seeing the two grow up together over the various chapters in the novel. I also must applaud Irving for doing such an excellent job of steering away from cliches regarding the plot and characters, as he gives readers a fresh new perspective that prevents them from wanting to put the book down, particularly with the unordinary, fascinating events incorporated into the story. This is a definite must-read for those who love a good mystery, or want something funny to brighten their day.
Writers & Lovers
Lily King’s novel was not what I was expecting at all. In some ways, it’s a good thing, and in others, it is not as great. In all honesty, the only problem I had with the story is that the author was not as active a writer as I was hoping her to be. Although she aspires to be an author, her environment heavily influences her ability to write, instead of her passion being the source to continue. Although I understand why this may be, as the story contains several events that heavily influence her emotional and mental state for writing, I was hoping to see someone working to overcome those struggles, instead of relying on the happiness from her romantic interests to do the bulk of the motivating. Regardless, I have to give King credit for writing a book that shows the reality of pursuing a career as an author. Her novel showcases the struggles that go with continuing one’s passion and that not everyone has the capacity or the willingness to continue with their dreams as time goes on. Overall, this was a delightful book, and would be far more interesting to those who prefer romance as their favourite genre.
Outliers
Malcolm Gladwell’s, Outliers is one of the most thought-provoking novels I have read. Despite being a book outside of my typical reading list, I will never regret picking it up from the selection of books I have at home and reading the unimaginable factors that contribute to our ability to succeed. Each chapter truly transformed my perspective of success and the essential aspects of how we can do better in our lives that are often overlooked in many other success stories and articles. I also appreciate seeing that the book does not revolve around success in our country’s environment and our culture, but also what happens when we try to translate our values and behaviours to another country. To avoid spoiling the information found in Gladwell’s novel, I suggest reading this novel, solely because the knowledge incorporated into each page will most definitely change how you view your world.
Annabel
Annabel by Kathleen Winter is an unforgettable novel, as it looks from the viewpoint of a hermaphrodite, a group in today's society that is often under-represented in today's society and media. Through the captivating writing of the author, I gained some insight into the struggles of living as a hermaphrodite in a society that believes in the existence of only the male and female gender. Furthermore, despite taking place in Canada, the lesson it has to share is relatable, regardless of where you are from. Winter's novel shows what it is like to be pressured to be someone you are not to please the people who matter most to you. I also learned the importance of finding who you are and not allowing the expectations of the surrounding world to force you to conform to their standards. Overall, this story is something everyone should read, as it offers something fresh and unique which you cannot find in any other novel.
FlyGirl
With Sherri L. Smith’s novel, Flygirl, containing powerful elements tied to historical fiction, the story shows the hurdles and obstacles of the black community during a time when people of colour did not receive fair treatment compared to their white counterparts. Likewise, as a female, the character also must overcome the struggles created by society for females, making her journey all the more important and moving. The story is about a girl who dreams of becoming a pilot, as must choose to hide her ethnic identity to do so, or to abandon her dreams altogether. I loved reading this story, and the events Smith has incorporated in the story have truly affected me while reading it, particularly when seeing her sacrifice the things she loves to continue her training as a pilot. I also appreciate that this novel was from the point of view of a person of colour, instead of the common Eurocentric perspective. Lastly, I enjoyed seeing the plot connecting to World War II, thus offering some insight into that time period.
The Blue Helmet
The Blue Helmet by William Bell is a compelling novel set in modern times with unique characters. Although this story was not the typical story I usually read, I truly enjoyed that Bell emphasized how the relationships we make can change our outlook on life and how we handle our circumstances. It also shows that no matter how peculiar someone may be, they all need a friend who understands them and appreciates their differences instead of trying to change them. I truly appreciate the creativity used in creating these characters as the author ensures that these individuals have distinct personalities that sets them apart from other characters in other novels. Overall, I suggest reading this book as it is intriguing and worth your time.
Sophie's World
Jostein Gaarder’s Sophie’s World is by far my favourite novel of all time. Not only does it contain elements from the mystery genre that keep you at the edge of your seat, but also contains crucial lessons from philosophy, addressing the historical, scientific and art components of the subject. I would like to mention that the story gave me a stronger appreciation for life and some basic knowledge which I applied to other subjects, especially law. If you are interested in law and politics, although the novel does not touch too much on the legal aspects, since philosophy is an important aspect of the study of law, reading this book will be just as good as taking a philosophy. However, I do highly suggest taking the philosophy course as this book inspired me to do so, and it was one of my most favourite courses throughout my years in high school. Ultimately, this novel is both enjoyable and educational that it is definitely something everyone should read.
The Book Thief
Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief is a novel that revolves around World War II Germany from an adopted young girl’s perspective. The novel truly touched my heart while seeing the adoptive father establishing a relationship with the girl through reading, and the work they put in together to improve themselves. I also found the novel educational, as it showed various aspects of the events from WWII that many other novels overlook. One of these key events was the burning of books, and the enormous bonfires they had to destroy those pieces of knowledge. No amount of words can describe my enjoyment of this novel, and I suggest reading it for those who enjoy historical fiction. For those who are still in school, this is an excellent choice for any book reports for English.
Matters of the Heart
Matters of the Heart by Danielle Steel is the most gripping novel I have read. From a beautiful romance between two adults turned into a nightmare, this novel made me experience a plethora of emotions. Reading about what happens to the protagonist, the story acts as great for showing what signs to watch out for when entering an intimate relationship with someone else. Hence, I appreciate the distinct approach Steel took for this novel, as it is bar far the greatest book I have read of all time. I must add that this novel is for the adult audience, as it contains mature themes. In addition, I can guarantee that the significant other for the main character will be your most hated character of all time, simply because he is nothing but despicable and selfish. Overall, for those who enjoy reading a romance that does not result in the usual boy meets girl, fall in love and live happily ever after, this is the book for you.
The Testaments
As the sequel of The Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood’s novel containing three distinct lives that intertwine near the end is one of the most intriguing stories I have read. Much like the novel before it, the story embodies so much detail one can truly feel the emotion felt by each of the three protagonists. However, unlike The Handmaid’s Tale, as the story holds different points of views, readers can get an in-depth understanding of the society the characters live in as there are the elements of the perspectives of the nation from the normal citizen, person in power and the outsider. Compared to the first novel of the series, The Testaments is far more interesting, especially since it shows the humanity in all individuals, even when society seems like a controlling, unfeeling place. So far, this novel stays on my list of favourite books read during my lifetime.
Inspiration: Your Ultimate Calling
As an individual who appreciates reading books that will help me in growing as a person, I found Dr. Wayne W. Dyer’s Inspiration: Your Ultimate Calling disappointing in terms of the content. Although his message is genuine and important to learn, much of what he says I can find in my day to life, whether it be in inspirational posts on social media or through speaking with the individuals I look up to. Hence, out of the hundreds of pages, there was only one moment when it changed a portion of my mindset, yet the transformation to being a better human being was quite insignificant. Although as various writing styles and messages appeal to a range of people, this book may help those who differ from me to better understand their purpose in life, how to achieve their goals, and as mentioned before, how to be a better person. Nevertheless, I only suggest reading this book for those who feel they are currently living a life that lacks positivity, whether it be within themselves or in the people they see on a daily basis.
The Automatic Millionaire: A One Step-Plan to Live and Finish Rich
After reading David Bach’s The Automatic Millionaire: A One Step-Plan to Live and Finish Rich, I noticed his suggestions to becoming rich are both simple and realistic. Although I feel he prolonged the different components of his ideas, it does not take away from the fact that everyone should follow his lessons and apply it to their personal lives, regardless of age, financial position or other factors affecting their situation. However, when Bach includes “automatic” in his title, he is not explaining to you through this book how to become a millionaire overnight, but how to earn money over the course of your employment by setting an automatic system to ensure a secure financial future for retirement. Hence, I think this is a book everyone should read as it contains crucial information on how to have peace of mind financially, not to mention, one that is crucial for the younger generations to read, particularly teenagers and older.
Holocaust Lumber
Holocaust Lumber by Allan Rosenfeld is one of the most heartfelt stories I have read, comprising memories of the author’s childhood. I have gained some insight into the mindsets of Holocaust survivors who immigrate to Canada to start a new life. I also loved how the author adores his father and wrote the book in his memory. Besides the story itself, I admire the level of descriptiveness in the story, as I truly gained an understanding of the setting, the character’s struggles and the overall of his society. Overall, I loved this book, and I highly suggest you read it. Holocaust Lumber is and will always be one of my favourite books and deserves so many readers.
The Amber Room
Steve Berry’s novel, The Amber Room, is a phenomenal read. Inspired by the Amber Room from World War II, this novel was an absolute thrill. Not only was it descriptive, but it was like something I have never read. The first aspect of the story I noted was that although Steve Berry had the chief characters be divorcees, he did not force their relationship to embody the dark traits of divorces, such as having both characters hating each other. Instead, the two did not see eye to eye, and throughout the story, they worked it out. However, the primary focus of the novel is not their relationship, but the wonder that was once lost in history. The author also incorporated high stakes, which kept me on the edge of my seat while reading. Conclusively, like many other books I have read, I suggest reading this novel if you enjoy anything relating to history, especially about events from World War II or love thrillers.
The Procrastination Solution
The Procrastination Solution by Max Goldwall is a book that everyone should read. With a variety of ways to reduce one's tendency to procrastinate and increase productivity, the book contains methods that are easy to use, but highly effective. As we live in a society where we must work extra hard to achieve our goals, especially a career that offers financial stability, we as individuals have a lot on our plates, which can sometimes be discouraging. Nevertheless, this book has realistic methods to reduce your need to procrastinate by using a mix of both scientific research and strategies used by some of the most successful people in history. I also appreciate that the author used his personal experience with procrastination, as it shows that the author has a genuine understanding of the problems we face and a desire to help change that. To add on, there were links for if you wanted more information and inspiring quotes. The book was also easy to follow as it presented a problem, solution and a summary to give you the overall gist of the method outlined in that chapter. Overall, this was a well thought out book, compiled with information I never knew, information that made me reflect on my habits and tips I will be sure to use going forward. I highly suggest you read this book as it offers insight and tips that everyone, regardless of what stage of life they are in, need to succeed in all their endeavors.
Home
Home by Akshay Gajria is a fascinating short story that highlights forgiveness and the importance of family. With a constant sense of intrigue throughout all of those wonderfully written pages, I could not put down the story. I also loved the ending as it was like a cliffhanger, making me want to read the next book to come. The author has genuine talent, and the writing is magnificent. His writing is both detailed and offers a deep understanding of the protagonist. Although the author incorporates themes found in science fiction into the story, there were realistic elements that made it relatable. Overall, I highly suggest reading this book for those who enjoy short stories or like ones about time travel.
The Wrong Turn
Tracey Chizoba Fletcher’s novella, The Wrong Turn, is a fantastic story that emphasizes the importance of finding a purpose in life. Using a character who does not embody the prevalent clichés, the author effectively shows the consequences laziness and a lack of ambition have on our family. However, as much as the story is purely fictional, the factors that lead to someone not use their talents, thus linking to the reality of many people’s lives. On another note, I loved the use of ethnic names relating to the Nigerian culture, making the character unique and memorable. The novella is also a brilliant book for reflection on our goals and what we do to achieve them. Ultimately, I suggest this novel to everyone, especially adolescents who need help with forging their path to their dreams.
Free Range Flash Fiction
Free Range Flash Fiction by Thomas Leverett is an incredible read. Despite being a series of stories that are not directly interconnected, it does not take away from the amazing stories that the author wrote. Some things I took away from this book are that these stories, although fictional to my knowledge, embody real aspects of our society and many others. Even the ones that seem unreal still contain an element which can be related to our daily life. In other ways, I found this book made me appreciate my life and what I have, as it opened my eyes to other people’s realities which are seldom shown in the media. Conclusively, this book is perfect for those with busy lives who cannot keep track of a book’s plot or characters, as each story is short and can be finished in a few minutes.
Diary of a Scribbler
Aside from the descriptive paragraphs, the captivating chapter titles and the distinct elements that tie to our reality, Esme Sinclair’s book, Diary of a Scribbler, is highly relatable. While reading, I could feel the emotions of the character. Based on a true story, the novel contains both the struggles of authors and society. One key aspect that hit close to my heart is the feeling of powerlessness, especially when you feel torn between achieving your goals and reality. I also understood the mindset of the main character when it comes to our physical appearance. Likewise, I related to the character’s feelings as I think everyone has felt no one wants to understand our pain. However, I must applaud the author for sharing a story where the protagonist works towards her dream, primarily to help others, which I believe appeals to everyone who wants to do something that improves someone else’s life. Ultimately, this is a remarkable book, especially since I could see parts of myself within the character. Hence, I believe this is the ideal book for those facing hardships, along with aspiring authors.
Feminine Shades
There is so much to say about Tracey Fletcher’s book, Feminine Shades. Being a collection of several stories, the author incorporated a variety of elements that helped me understand the realities many women face regarding gender inequality. And although the prime focus is on women in Nigeria, it does not take away from the fact that these hardships apply to females, no matter where they are from. However, speaking of Nigeria, I loved how the author included some of the culture. Whether it be food or the way the characters dressed each other, that aspect of the story made it seem authentic. I also learned some things from the collection of stories, which I deeply appreciate. Overall, I truly loved this book and I think everyone should read it to gain a larger picture of the struggles woman face today.
Kong Boys: Seven Friends from Hong Kong Take on Eleven European Cities for Their Thirtieth Birthdays
Kong Boys by Gerald Yeung is a phenomenal story that offers us a dose of the reality of the type of friendships we will have as we get older. Based on a story of a group of friends that go on a trip together they planned several years back, the novel embodies elements that made it seem both realistic and relatable. I truly loved the level of detail the author put into the book, as I got a deep understanding of the character’s personality and their environment. Yeung’s book is so enjoyable that I couldn’t help read the entire story in one night. I highly suggest this book for all adults, as I know you will enjoy it.