Review: My Life on a Plate by India Knight

4 stars for My Life on a Plate by India Knight.

This is a long overdue post. I am pretty sure I finish reading this book at least four months ago. It seems such a long time that I can hardly recall what I want to say.

Well, not all is lost... I do remember this story being lighthearted and entertaining. I will say I have a relaxing time reading it and laughing over some of the hilarious conversations embedded in the story.

Review: Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome

5 stars for Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome.

My first book of the year is a random book that I chose to read on a whim. It is one of five books that I purchased from POPULAR bookstore chain during my December vacation to Melaka. Prior to this, I have no idea who Jerome K. Jerome is as I have never come across any of his books before. I bought this book for two reasons. One, priced at MYR15.00, the book is a steal. Two, the book jacket broadcast that this is a book that has never gone out of print since it was first printed in 1889!

The book is about three men (to say nothing of the dog), Jerome, George and Harris, taking a two-week boat holiday on River Thames from Kingston to Oxford. The story starts off as any other book can be expected to - uneventful. But as I read on, I begin to understand why this book is so widely touted despite its seemingly simple plot. The more I read, the more I enjoy the story. It is simple. It is funny. It is entertaining. It is hilarious. It is a joy to read.

At the beginning of each chapter, there is always a short paragraph that summarizes the happenings for that chapter. Interestingly, it is a summary that tells the reader everything yet nothing. As such, it makes a great chapter synopsis especially for readers like me who is ever wary of spoiler.

The thing to be enjoyed while reading this book is not in the narration of the main story about the three men in a boat, but rather the many side stories that branch out in the course of the protagonist telling his main story, as his thoughts wander and drift in and out. It is these side stories that make this book so wonderfully entertaining. This is as the saying goes "It is not the destination but the journey that matters."

I share the same sentiments with regard to the little everyday topics that are mentioned in the book. One such is the weather forecast that is never accurate. To quote "It forecasts precisely what happened yesterday or the day before, and precisely the opposite of what is going to happpen today." As a result, no one likes to be foretold the weather. To quote "It is bad enough when it comes, without our having the misery of knowing about it beforehand."

Another example is empty cabs do not appear when you are waiting to hail one. To quote "it is a street where, as a rule, and when they are not wanted, empty cabs pass at the rate of three a minute, and hang about, and get in your way."

Then there is an amusing case about the protagonist's view on the value of art treasures of his time versus the past and future. To quote "Why, all our art treasures of today are only the dug up commonplaces of three or four hundred years ago.... Will it be the same in future? Will the prized treasures of today always be the cheap trifles of the day before?" What follows next is the protagonist's take on the value of a china dog ornament in two hundred years' time; it is so comically worded that it sends me into fits of laughter.

Another excellent example is the maze incident at Hampton Court. I will not quote anything here for it is too long a many pages to quote. But I will say, it is definitely a hilarious maze experience by Harris, one of the three men in the boat. It is a must-read near the end of chapter six. I shall stop with this last example as there are simply too many to bring out here. Well, the few examples I listed down may not seem funny to some of you here because they aren't read in context. So, what I am trying to say is, you have got to read the book.

Besides the entertaining narratives of the river adventure, there are also history to be learned as well as additional knowledge on some quaint, old-world inns up the River Thames. This book is, after all, written with the original purpose of advertising travel by describing the journey and scenery on the River Thames. In the end, the author's lighthearted narratives took over the descriptions to become a slice of life.

I cannot be more glad to have bought Three Men in a Boat and even more so, kickstart the New Year with this delightful book that says a lot without really saying a lot. I hope this first book of the year is an indication of what the Year 2023 has in store for me - all things lighthearted, smooth sailing and easy-going.

Review: The Rosie Result (Don Tillman #3) by Graeme Simsion

3 stars for The Rosie Result (Don Tillman book 3) by Graeme Simsion.

At long last, I decide that it is time to read this third and final Rosie book. Based on my earlier experience with the books in the series, I know I need to read this book with a clear mind, if not, the humour will be lost on me. I think I manage to achieve most of that as I did laugh out loud even though they are mostly inside my head.

From Rosie Project in book 1, to Rosie Effect in book 2, to Rosie Result in book 3, it all seems like only yesterday that I have read book 1, but in reality, eight years have come and gone in the blink of an eye. Actually, this book should have been titled the Hudson Project as it revolves around a boy called Hudson. But then, I can understand why it remains a Rosie something after all.

Though a Hudson Project, this book is still very much about Don. It is about problem solving, about family spending time together, about relationships, about regaining self-esteem, about accepting the person we are and being who we are instead of trying to be someone we are not. There is much meaning in this story as we see how the father and son's lives follow similar trajectories. They are living parallel lives but yet different in their own ways. It is interesting to see how the author creates a mini me Don in his son, Hudson. And how Don tries his best to guide his son according to what he feels is the correct way. But then, what is the right way?

I am not sad to see the last of this series as I feel that the author does a great job wrapping it up nicely. Of all the three books, I still love The Rose Project the most. And it is likely a book I may choose to read again some day. One day.

Review: The Miracles of the Namiya General Store by Keigo Higashino

4 stars for The Miracles of the Namiya General Store by Keigo Higashino.

I read this book for my book club. We meet once every two months to talk books. The librarian who organises and facilitates our club meeting and discussion suggested this novel as our next book for discussion in April. I welcome the idea the moment my eyes landed on the book cover. The cover is not only mesmerising, the picture of the general store seems to be shrouded by magic. This and the word "miracles" in the title make me want to find out more.

The Miracles of the Namiya General Store is a story on family, friendship and life. These are fairly common themes in a story. So what makes this story any different? It is the element of time-travel. The travel back to the past and into the future is what makes the Namiya General Store so special on top of its huge role in affecting the lives of those who seek the advice of the store owner.

At first glance, this seems to be a story about people from all walks of life. But when all the dots are connected, it is revealed that they are related one way or other with the Namiya General Store and one other place. The careful crafting of the characters, the events, their surroundings and how they all add up to be one big picture is amazing.

This is a touching, heartwarming and thought-provoking novel. As with all stories that involve time-travelling, it can get confusing at times when one thinks too deeply on the logic of the past against the future. I think that is why, this is a story about miracles. They defy logic.

Review: Skipping Christmas by John Grisham

4 stars for Skipping Christmas by John Grisham.

I have never for the life of me ever thought of skipping Christmas. Perhaps because of this, I tend to skip this book year after year after year when I am selecting my festive holiday fiction. I am glad not to have skipped it again this year.

Skipping Christmas is not your run-of-the-mill Christmas story. There is nothing about romance lost and found which is ever so rampant in Christmas tales. Instead, it is a funny and entertaining novel, heartwarming and touching in all its originality. After reading this book, you will be amazed at the reasons that the Kranks can come up with simply to have a complete boycott of Christmas and then have a good laugh at the ensuing chaotic mess they find themselves in.

I like it that this book is short and sweet and so in time for a good Christmas read, especially so this year as I am even more busy with my newfound hobby - crochet.

Christmas is a time of peace and joy around the world. It is a festive season to be spent with family and loved ones. I am not skipping Christmas, not this year, nor the next, or ever. Today is Christmas Eve. We celebrated it with pork knuckle, chocolate log cake and many wonderful presents.

Have you skipped Christmas before or ever harbour the thought of doing so?

Well, in any case, have a very Merry Christmas!

Review: Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov |《Reread》

5 stars for Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov |《Reread》.

Fret not, this is not a review wrongly posted. Yes, it is Lolita again, and no, it is not a different Lolita. It is Lolita. To quote "Lo-lee-ta: the tip of the tongue taking a trip of three steps down the palate to tap, at three, on the teeth. Lo. Lee. Ta." That's right. The very same Lolita which I read and reviewed one week ago.

It is a well-known fact that people read the same book over and over. Needless to say, it is not unusual for booklovers to engage with their favourite books a second, third, or even tenth time. As a voracious reader, I am certainly not new to rereading (for leisure). If not for my ever-growing Reading List and the inevitable opportunity cost of time, I will have reread more books than I have liked to date. Though no stranger to reading a book more than once, I have never read the same book a second time right after it has been first read. Lolita is my first. I suppose there is always a first time for everything. By my rereading so soon, it also goes to show how much I adore Lolita. After all, action speaks louder than words.

In rereading Lolita - as with some other rereads, in particular The Lord of the Rings series - I have come to pay heed to the finer details of the story, things which somehow managed to slip past me the first time round. For that, I am glad for my attempt to relive the story, to go above and beyond the usual. At the same time, I am sad to say that it is not the same. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying that I enjoy Lolita any less this time, but simply for the reason that I am not experiencing Lolita for the first time anymore. Yea, ask any booklover and the consensus will be that it is a coveted pleasure to be reading a great book for the first time.

I have dallied much over the review of a reread. I shall move on by saying I stand pat on my previous review on Lolita - 5 stars.

Review: Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

5 stars for Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov.

I have been trying, of late, to revisit some books that, for some reason or other, I did not manage to complete previously. Lolita is one such. To tell the truth, I have never thought I will pick up this book again one day. In the end, one day is here. Now. And I realise coming back to Lolita is one of the best literary decisions I have ever made.

Lolita, a story within a story, is based on a memoir written by a man using the pseudonym Humbert Humbert (H.H.). Due to certain events past, H.H. is sordidly drawn to nymphets. Nymphets here refers to young girls, who are attractive and sexually mature, but still possess childlike behavior and innocence. This memoir is the account of H.H.'s obsession and relationship with one particular nymphet whom he gives the term of endearment Lolita. To quote "She was Lo, plain Lo, in the morning, standing four feet ten in one sock. She was Lola in slacks. She was Dolly at school. She was Dolores on the dotted line. But in my arms she was always Lolita."

On top of his complete adoration of Lolita, H.H. also reveals at the onset of his memoir, page one in chapter one, that he is a murderer. To quote "You can always count on a murderer for a fancy prose style." Even so, the reader has to read on patiently to find out if this self-professed murderer is telling the truth - as the reader will soon discover that H.H. is not quite the reliable narrator as he makes out to be - and if so, uncover who the victim is. By this subtle act of confession, H.H. kicks off his memoir with a fancy air of mystique meant to keep the story rolling in suspense.

Over the years I have read books and been affected by some (naturally), but this is the first book, and likely the last, that shakes me up so badly. To say Lolita is a disturbing story is a gross understatement for it is not, in my opinion, a tale for the faint hearted. It is great yet terrible, exquisite yet grotesque, beautiful yet ugly, shocking yet soothing, exhilarating yet heartbreaking, sordid yet entrancing. Yes, it is one sordid tale of a story. Sordid yet entrancing in its own right. What makes Lolita so morally shocking yet beautiful and seductive at the same time is the way it draws out the reader's sensual imagination and high-arousal emotions - anxiety, anger, fear, excitement, thrill - through the author's skilful riddling of narratives with flamboyant word play in lieu of graphic descriptions and lewd details. It is a dark story for sure, but it is also one so beautifully narrated that it brings writing and storytelling to a different level, and in all likelihood, reason for Lolita attaining a classic status.

Having read Lolita from foreword to postscript finally, I can now appreciate why it is listed as an ideal book to have by so many of the contributors in My Ideal Bookshelf. Though a tragic story with an obvious villain at its core, there is still sympathy abound as empathy set in in readers. Even if we do not see eye to eye with H.H.'s deadly fixation, we understand his illicit pursuit of passion, a result of author Nabokov's great prose style that brings out the best and worst of humanity. The articulations of longing and insatiable illicit love is so gloriously tender that the reader in me cannot bear to point fingers but express sorrow in a quiet, gentle way. I think, whoever reads and loves Lolita as much as I do, will inevitably find a piece of themselves in H.H. upon reaching the end of this sad beautiful story.

Lolita is, without a doubt, one of Vladimir Nabokov's great literary masterpieces, perhaps even considered to be his most famous work as one of the most controversial and widely read books of its time. I believe this unforgettable work of art on obsession will continue to survive the test of time.

Review: Moloka'i by Alan Brennert

Did Not Finish Moloka'i by Alan Brennert.

I want to like this story and I try to read it best as I can. Sad to say the least, I am not able to make myself finish it.

Moloka'i is one of those stories where the lines between fact and fiction are blurred; historical events, real-life patients and caregivers are interlaced with fictional cast of characters. In nutshell, it is a work of fiction which is set in a real place where real people live and die.

The story revolves mostly around a seven-year old girl, Rachel and a terrible, horrible disease called Hansen’s disease which is also known as leprosy.

It is important to note that leprosy is caused by a bacterium (Mycobacterium leprae) and is thus not hereditary, from a curse, or from a sin.

Review: This Is Where I Leave You by Jonathan Tropper

5 stars for This Is Where I Leave You by Jonathan Tropper.

This is Where I Leave You is an entertaining family saga that amuses me to no end. I laugh and I cry and I stare and I moon over the first person narratives as well as any mocking good humor that ensues.

Meet the Foxmans as they sit Shiva. There is Mr Morton Foxman (recently deceased), Mrs Hillary Foxman and their four grown-up children, Wendy, Paul, Judd (narrator) and Phillip. Forced to reconvene at Knob’s End, the cul-de-sac where their parents’ house stands over the course of seven days, the emotionally inarticulate Foxmans go through an unexpected emotional growth as they grapple with whatever life throws at them - kids or the lack thereof, finances and fiancées and soon-to-be ex-wives, loneliness and self-esteem, love and loss, death and grief.

Life issues are common problems, issues and crises that happen to normal people living normal lives just like you and me. The thing is, the author manages to capture the gist of it and proceeds to fabricate a story in the context of the Foxmans all so well that I simply cannot resist but read the book and laugh out loud.

If you ever find yourself bombarded by life issues and are at your wits' end, take a step back, pick up this book, relax and read it for a good laugh.

Review: Only Child by Rhiannon Navin

Did Not Finish Only Child by Rhiannon Navin.

I always feel that it is delicate business spinning stories from young children's point of view. It is not easy to write, nor is it easy to be well liked, especially by fastidious readers like me.

Only Child is a story told through the eyes of Zach, a six-year old boy. It starts off really well with Zach's internal thought process running in circles amidst a gunman and the popping sounds he makes in the elementary school. The first person narrative is so childlike against the disturbing backdrop that I cannot help but read the entire first chapter with a heavy heart.

Sadly, the above moment and the feelings it stir up do not last. When Zach talks about his father making partner at his firm the year before, I am reminded yet again that this is actually an adult posing as a young storyteller. And so, my interest to read starts to dwindle.

Not for lack of trying, I find myself unable to go any further beyond the 20% mark.

Review: Still Me (Me Before You #3) by Jojo Moyes

3 stars for Still Me (Me Before You book 3) by Jojo Moyes.

From a standalone (Me Before You) to a sequel (After You) to a series (Still Me), Lou's story has indeed come a long way from the time she is hired to work for the Traynor family in England to the Gopnik family in New York now. Since then, Lou has moved on. Time and tide wait for no man. She needs to move on. Yet somehow, it still feels somewhat wrong to have Lou's story continuing in a world without Will.

Following the advice of the late Will Traynor, Lou is now in New York city to start a new life, take up new challenges and go on exciting adventures. The story flows and is easy to read but other than that, there is nothing much compelling about it. Lou is still Lou. But Lou without Will is just not the same. Ever.

Time does not heal all wounds. It is what we do with time that heals. Perhaps that is what author Moyes is trying to put across in Lou's story - another story without Will - to us. Perhaps Still Me is the last in the series. Or perhaps there will be more to come. But no matter how, I stick to my guns that it will have been for the better if Me Before You remains as it has originally been intended to be, that is, a standalone novel.

Review: Lost December by Richard Paul Evans

5 stars for Lost December by Richard Paul Evans.

This is a holiday version of the riches-to-rags story of the prodigal son, an emotionally charged tale of redemption, of hope and of second chance.

Lost December's underlying message is certainly not lost on me. It is a good reminder for us not to take things for granted and to learn to count our blessings. Reading this story makes me feel truly blessed to have a roof overhead, food to eat, clean water to drink, a decent job and a heartwarming family to go back to at the end of the day.

It is so true; in life, we all take different paths, some more difficult than others, but in the end, all that matters is whether or not they lead us home.

It is also very real; we all have our regrets, only more or less. Sometimes the greatest hope in our lives is just a second chance to do what we should have done right in the first place.

With hope, second chance and gratitude, we can find our way home. Home is where the heart is.

Review: The Christmas List by Richard Paul Evans

3.5 stars for The Christmas List by Richard Paul Evans.

The Christmas List is a Christmas story of true redemption, of death, rebirth and second chance.

What can possibly happen if people read their obituary before they die and have first-hand experience of what the world really think of them?

Yes, we all get lost sometimes. And when we find ourselves with the truth, knowing fully the pain and hurt caused to others and knowing there is no way to make it better, that realization can be devastating. The trick is to believe that we are worth finding and have the strength of will to make amends.

Having read this book, the author has fulfilled what he set out to accomplish. He has written and shared a holiday story that not only warms the festive season but my heart as well.

Review: Th1rteen R3asons Why by Jay Asher

5 stars for Th1rteen R3asons Why by Jay Asher.

▶

There is always a first time, for everything. In this case, a story that is not meant to be read but listened to. Right.. it does not feel as if I have finished reading this book, rather, it feels more like I have finished listening to a bunch of audiotapes the moment the last tape reaches the end of its spool.

Seven cassette tapes. Six double sided, one single. Thirteen sides in all. Thirteen sides to every story. Thirteen reasons why.

If I didn't know any better, I will say this book is based on a true story. One that has been converted from voice recordings of a girl to merely words printed on pages, leaving life-changing moments in its wake for whoever the reader.

How many secrets can there be in one school? How is everything related? Do we see people around us as who they truly are? How much of our friends do we really know? This is emotionally exhausting.⏸

▶

I have no answers to the above questions. But one thing for sure, I know why this book has its appeal. Guys will like it. Girls will love it. It certainly resonates with me.

Listen to the cassette tapes and you will understand why.

⏹

Review: The Second Husband by Louise Candlish

3 stars for The Second Husband by Louise Candlish.

A well executed story but a painful one at that, of a woman who plays multiple roles.

This story is perhaps a reality check on relationships where people throw caution to the wind and simply follow where their hearts lead them regardless of consequences. I'm not sure what intention the author has in mind but the message that glides across from reading this novel is that people in the UK do live with their families but it is either with the stepmother or stepfather, not exactly a rosy family picture.

Much as I enjoy the story setting and polished prose, it is equally exhausting and frustrating to be reading about a woman who constantly mourns after an ex-husband, has endless fights with a seventeen-year old adolescent and is oblivious to the fact that she has lost ground even before the battle has started.

Read it if you think you have the stomach for it.

Review: US by David Nicholls

Did Not Finish US by David Nicholls.

This book is totally not what I have expected. I look forward to a funny, light-hearted novel but this... this is just not it. Heavy-hearted. Slow-moving. Overbearing description of European cities. In short, boring.

Review: The Gift by Richard Paul Evans

5 stars for The Gift by Richard Paul Evans.

Time passes so fast that we often lose track of it. I am glad to still remember with vivid clarity the feeling of hope, faith and sense of peace that decends upon my whole being after reading The Walk series in the beginning of this year. It has not been a deliberate calculated move on my part to start off the year 2015 with a review of book 1 The Walk. But as it happens, I did and enjoyed the story so much that I lapped the whole series up in less than 3 week's time.

As we enter into the holiday season, all I can think of is reading Author Evans' books on healing and sharing. Having started the year with his books, I hope to end it with his stories as well. The Gift, a story about healing, is one of Author Evans' books which I have specially put aside to be read at this time of the year.

The protagonist, Nathan Hurst, has Tourette's syndrome, an inherited neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. Nathan works as an in-house detective for a music chain store, keeping an eye on employees who steal and from getting off scot-free.

Nathan's story begins about a week before Thanksgiving. Having wrapped up his task in settling an employee pilfering at the Philadelphia store, Nathan hurries to catch a flight home to Salt Lake City. Due to bad weather conditions, his two-hour transit in the Denver airport turns into an overnight stay in the airport hotel. It is while queuing up at the help counter that Nathan meets Addison, Elizabeth and Collin; the trio who touches his heart and changes forever his belief and outlook to life.

Having finished the story, I am really glad to have put aside this book for my reading pleasure during this festive season. The Gift is not solely a story about healing, it is also a poignant reminder of the passing of time. It evokes in me a keen sense of sadness and regret amidst the gift of healing. To heal or to ignore? What if the act of healing others draws life out of the one who heals? It makes me weep as a grieving mum does over the fate of her child and things which are way beyond her control. Yet as sad and touching a story as it is, the author pens it with faith and hope in the powers there be. It makes me feel that not all is lost.

Last but not least, I have a confession to make. For years on end, I have always believed or choose to believe that the coordinated repetitive patterns of facial movements performed in the same order by my own brother is an extremely bad habit of his own choosing. He has a mininum of five different manifestations - eye blinking, nose twitching, facial grimacing, head jerking and head twisting - at least those that I can visibly see.

I used to question why mum fails to stop my younger brother from making a disgrace of himself with all his awful facial movements. It gets especially worse when he is nervous or excited. And I feel so embarrass just to be seen with my own sibling in the public. Once, my brother even tells me that he needs to complete his facial movements in a certain way and a certain number of times in order to relieve some kind of urge or sensation which he is unable to explain. I find it absolutely absurd and hard to believe.

That was then, the ignorant me. Now I finally understand. My younger brother is actually a victim of complex motor tics. By my reading of The Gift, I am granted a gift, the precious gift of understanding.

In a bid to better understand Tourette's syndrome since reading the Author’s Note in The Gift, I spend some time googling and reading up on this neurological disorder. Among the articles that I come across, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) provides the most comprehensive information on Tourette's syndrome.

Below is a condensed version of my understanding. For more information on this neurological disorder, you can refer to the link listed below.

What is Tourette's syndrome?

Tourette's syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by the presence of both motor tics and vocal tics.

These short-lasting sudden movements (motor tics) or uttered sounds (vocal tics) occur suddenly during what is otherwise normal behavior.

TS occurs in people from all ethnic groups; males are affected about three to four times more often than females.

What are the symptoms?

Tics are classified as either simple or complex.

Simple motor tics are sudden, brief, repetitive movements that involve a limited number of muscle groups, such as eye blinking, nose twitching, facial grimacing, shoulder shrugging, and head or shoulder jerking.

Complex motor tics are distinct, coordinated patterns of movements performed in the same order that involve several muscle groups, such as facial grimacing combined with a head twist and a shoulder shrug. Some other complex motor tics may actually appear purposeful, such as sniffing or touching objects, hopping, jumping, bending or twisting.

Simple vocal tics may include repetitive throat-clearing, sniffing/snorting, grunting, or barking.

Complex vocal tics include words or phrases; some may involve uttering socially inappropriate words such as swearing or repeating the words or phrases of others.

Some tics are preceded by an urge or sensation in the affected muscle group, commonly called a premonitory urge. Some with TS will describe a need to complete a tic in a certain way or a certain number of times in order to relieve the urge or decrease the sensation.

Tics are often worse with excitement or anxiety and better during calm, focused activities.

Tics do not go away during sleep but are often significantly diminished.

(Source: Tourette Syndrome Fact Sheet | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke  Last modified on 16 April 2014)

Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: 9 Oct 2007

*** Favourite quote 1 ***

The most important story we will ever write in life is our own - not with ink, but with our daily choices.

*** Favourite quote 2 ***

Sunsets, like childhood, are viewed with wonder not just because they are beautiful but because they are fleeting.

*** Favourite quote 3 ***

Our thoughts are not arrows haphazardly shot out into the cosmos. They are boomerangs.

~ The Gift
Richard Paul Evans

@}--->>--->>-----

There is no hurt
so great that love
cannot heal it

Nathan Hurst hated Christmas. For the rest of the world it was a day of joy and celebration; for Nathan it was simply a reminder of the event that destroyed his childhood until a snowstorm, a cancelled flight, and an unexpected meeting with a young mother and her very special son would show him that Christmas is indeed the season of miracles.

*Blurb from FantasticFiction*

Add to:


Links to purchase:

Review: After You (Me Before You #2) by Jojo Moyes

3 stars for After You (Me Before You book 2) by Jojo Moyes.

It seems like yesterday that I cry my heart out when I flip to the last page of the highly acclaimed novel, Me Before You. At that time, I feel as if a part of me has died alongside the ending of a story that revolves around a quadriplegic. No, it is not simply a case of suffering from a book hangover, it is much more; it is the emotional trauma – sadness, helplessness and loneliness - of being forced to accept the cruel reality of an ending which until today, I still find hard to accept.

Since finishing said novel, I have - more than anything - gladly added author Jojo Moyes to my list of favourite writers. From then on, I have been keeping tabs on this journalist turned novelist with regard to any of her new and upcoming book releases. When I first perceive news of a sequel to Me Before You, I am like 'OMG! A sequel!! There will be a sequel!!!'; the certainty that the author is turning - and has for real, made - the standalone novel into a series is like a dream come true for me.

After You is very much a story about moving on and having second chances. It is a soul searching, heart touching first person account of the same protagonist, 26-year old Louisa Clark aka Lou, of how she attempts to make peace and pick up the broken pieces of what remains of her life ever since the catastrophic, life-changing event 18 months past.

No journey out of grief is straightforward. There are good days and bad days to be had. Lou needs to ask herself what she wants with her life and figure out what needs to be done to achieving it. But instead, she finds herself asking the - real - question: how long does it take to get over the departure of someone she really loves?

Having read and finished After You, I am not sure if I am as happy as I am supposed to be before I even touch the book. Perhaps it is the setting or the storyline or the way a particular new character is introduced and thrust into the spotlight to create story continuity or all of the above, I feel as if I am watching the follow-up to a Taiwanese romance drama where the bombshell which is the equivalent of the new character designed to create continuity and chaos is revealed.

In all honesty, I have an awful lot of mixed feelings regarding this sequel to Me Before You. On one hand, I am ecstatic that the author continues with the telling of Lou's story, on the other hand, I am sorely disappointed that this story is not as intense as I have expected it to be. The way I see it, this sequel is written with the fans of Me Before You in mind, more so to satisfy their whims and curiosity of what happen to Lou in the aftermath of the life-altering event.

Truth be told, right before I read book 2 After You, I secretly harbor the thought of taking back what I have previously written in my review: how is the author going to be able to write another story that can excel Me Before You? The fact that I even think about swallowing my words goes to show what high hopes I have for this sequel. That said, in the end, I stay true to my earlier review that the author has indeed set the bar so high up when she pens Me Before You that she has yet - in my opinion - to outdo her own writing.

Very often, the story that leaves the deepest imprint in its wake, is not one where there is a happily ever after but one that encompasses a sad love story where it brings home the painful reality that sometimes love alone is not enough. In that sense, I cannot help but keep thinking that it may have been for the best if the author has simply left it at that; a standalone novel instead of expanding on the thereafter.

My sentiments aside, in all fairness, the author has done a great job with seeing, feeling and dealing with grief through Lou. Likewise, the writing is fluid; it blows life into each of the characters as they come alive and leap out of the pages in unison.

Precisely because of all of the above, I find it exceptionally challenging to give my two pennies' worth of star rating. It is only after much deliberation – where I think I actually manage to kill off my brain cells – that I finally decide to settle on 3 stars.

One and a half years ago, I will never have imagined myself reading a sequel, much less giving the book a star rating less than 4. Much as I love the idea of having a follow-up story, why fix it if it ain't broken? Well, I suppose if the fix can be as intense as the previous, if not mind-blowing sequel of epic proportions, then by all means Yes! If not, it will only break the heart of a fan (me) who so loves the story of Lou and Will.

Heart-rending as it is, I rather choose to live with the devastation in having to accept Will's choice towards the end of Me Before You over a sequel with Lou alone. True.. the Earth will not stop rotating, life will still go on and Lou deserves the chance to pursue her own happiness and move on but it just seems so wrong to have the story continuing in a world without Will.

Publisher: Penguin
Publication date: 24 Sep 2015

@}--->>--->>-----

When one story ends, another begins . . .

Lou Clark has lots of questions.

Like how it is she’s ended up working in an airport bar, spending every shift watching other people jet off to new places.
Or why the flat she’s owned for a year still doesn’t feel like home.
Whether her close-knit family can forgive her for what she did eighteen months ago.
And will she ever get over the love of her life.
What Lou does know for certain is that something has to change.

Then, one night, it does.

But does the stranger on her doorstep hold the answers Lou is searching for – or just more questions?
Close the door and life continues: simple, ordered, safe.
Open it and she risks everything.
But Lou once made a promise to live. And if she’s going to keep it, she has to invite them in . . .

*Blurb from author's website*

Add to:


Links to purchase:

Review: Maternity Leave by Julie Halpern

4.5 stars for Maternity Leave by Julie Halpern.

This book is a must read for all - particularly the 21st century - mommies out there. It is a realistic, down-to-earth story which most, if not all mommies, can understand and relate to. As real as it gets, it details the start of motherhood from the onset of labor right up to raising the baby at the end of the protagonist's maternity leave. Of course, in reality, we know that there is so much more beyond the first few months of paid maternity leave, but to fit in with the timeline as dictated by the book title, that is as far as the story goes.

There are a number of things I really like about this novel.

One is the overall presentation of the story. Instead of the usual numbering of chapters in ascending order, the author chooses to present her story by the '# Days Old" of baby Samuel Schwartz-Jensen. This method of chapter differentiation is certainly brilliant; not only does it aid in easy reading and monitoring of the baby's growth and development, it acts as a countdown to the end of the maternity leave.

Two is the voice of the protagonist - Annie, a 36-year old middle school English teacher - which speaks volumes with regard to the ups and downs of motherhood. The joys versus pains, togetherness versus loneliness, courage versus fear, assurances versus doubts of a full-time stay-at-home mom are creatively yet accurately laid out by the first person narrative. To my great delight, I find them to be echoes of my own sentiments and am glad that these are proof enough that I am not the odd one out!

Three is the intermittent update of facebook status. This is so in line with the lifestyle adopted by many ever since the invention of smartphones. While stay-at-home moms with newborn babies are generally too busy and tired from lack of sleep to keep up with friends, they can still connect with people through the various modes of social media.

Four is the close-to-heart way the author puts across on the dilemma which practically all parents, especially mommies, will experience when the time to return to work is round the corner. The million dollar question is "who will look after the child?". Be it going back to work or quitting the job to be a 24/7 mom, there will always be this guilt and internal struggle within a mother for whichever decision that is made because she can never know what the other outcome will be due to the opportunity cost involved.

One thing for sure which I totally agree with the protagonist is that no mommy will want to miss out on the milestones - first words, first crawling, first steps, first on solids, etc - of her own child.

Five is the similarities of 21st century motherhood experienced in present day across space and culture. Although the story is set in the Chicago suburbs, which happily coincides with the residential area of the author and her family, the difficulties and anxieties encountered in child birth, nursing and taking care of a baby are more or less the same. Gone are the days of infant formula. Now we all know that the greatest gift a mother can bestow upon her newborn baby is the mother's milk. I love the determination and perseverance of the protagonist in advocating breastfeeding.

It is remarkable that the author can write a full-length novel with the entire time span being a woman's maternity leave, that is, twelve weeks until the end of the school year on top of the twelve weeks of summer holiday. One may ask, what more is there to looking after a newborn baby than the expected endless routine of sleep, wake and feed. Well, read Maternity Leave and you will be in for a treat.

Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books
Publication date: 1 Sep 2015

@}--->>--->>-----

The profane, profound and just plain funny story of a professional woman who thinks she's ready for a baby but her maternity leave proves otherwise.

Thirty-six-year old Annie Schwartz-Jensen and her husband, Zach, waited to have a baby until the time was perfect. Annie got pregnant as planned, she hid her puke breath from the students in her seventh grade class, and drew up a detailed birth plan. She knew what to expect. She couldn't wait to raise her child in the most expertly precise way, using the trials and errors of all the parents who came before her in her ten years of teaching. She couldn't wait to feel the unconditional love, that moment everyone told her about, when she had a baby of her own.

"Maternity Leave" begins nine months later, as Annie gives birth to Sam, who comes out perfectly formed and screaming. After all those years of dreaming about a baby, this one is real.

And he scares the living crap out of Annie.

*Blurb from author's website*

Add to:


Links to purchase:

Review: The Rosie Effect (Don Tillman #2) by Graeme Simsion

4 stars for The Rosie Effect (Don Tillman book 2) by Graeme Simsion.

It seems like yesterday - though a long time ago - when I read book 1 of the Don Tillman series. Even as I decide to indulge in The Rosie Effect, I find myself fighting a losing battle against recalling the story characters from book 1 The Rosie Project; with the exception of the two lead characters, Don and Rosie, I remember pretty much zilch. But once I get down to reading, I realise that my worry about the short-term memory loss is uncalled-for as my predicament is promptly fixed by the author who has the foresight to incorporate the reintroduction of the various characters subtly through Don’s internal workings of a methodical mind.

After the Wife Project in book 1 that results in Don's participation in The Rosie Project where he helps Rosie – a 30-year old psychology graduate and PhD candidate – with the search for her biology father, Don now decides to embark on another Project, one that he is keenly interested in what with a case study progressing in his very own apartment. As with most endeavors, the new Project is no easy feat for this associate professor of genetics at Columbia who has, for the past 40 years of his life, been accused of being one with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and even Asperger's syndrome. Fortunately, with problem solving one of Don’s major strengths, he proceeds to tell his story - in deadpan humor - of how he comes about solving the unique problems in his own unique way.

I have an enjoyable time reading The Rosie Effect. Seeing the world through the eyes of Donald Tillman aka Don who as a scientist is hardwired to understand the science of reasoning, deduction and thought ahead of interpersonal dynamics amuses me to no end. There is so much dry humor inherent in Don’s thoughts and actions that I find myself laughing away every few paragraphs. Come to think about it, I cannot help but wonder at times if author Simsion – no offense meant – is someone whose inborn logical skills far excel his interpersonal skills and hence has the aptitude to write like one.

I always love a good story but the problem with reading a good book is that I want to finish reading the book but I do not want to finish the book. Yes, I know it sounds paradoxical but I sure all booklovers out there can relate and will agree with me. Experience has taught me well that it is highly probable that I will not be able to find another equally well written if not better story featuring a Don Tillman equivalent as the central character. So, it will be nice if a fairy comes along to sprinkle some fairy dust on my next statement.

I wish I can unread the Don Tillman series so that I can read it again for the first time.

Publisher: Penguin
Publication date: 25 Sep 2014

*** Favourite quote 1 ***

I was able to reassure my mother that Rosie and I were fine, work was also fine and any thanks for my uncle’s improved prognosis should be directed to medical science rather than a deity who had presumably allowed my uncle to develop cancer.

*** Favourite quote 2 ***

‘Gene is extremely dangerous and should be avoided socially.’

‘He didn’t seem dangerous to me. He seemed very nice.’ Inge was smiling.

‘That’s why he’s dangerous. If he seemed dangerous, he would be less dangerous.’

~ The Rosie Effect
Graeme Simsion

@}--->>--->>-----

With The Rosie Project, "Graeme Simsion achieved the impossible and created an entirely new kind of romantic hero," Jojo Moyes, author of Me Before You said. Now Don Tillman returns in the hilarious and charming sequel to the international sensation. Get ready to fall in love all over again.

Don sets about learning the protocols of becoming a father, but his unusual research style gets him into trouble with the law. Fortunately his best friend Gene is on hand to offer advice: he's left Claudia and moved in with Don and Rosie.

Picking up where The Rosie Project left off, The Rosie Effect is a fun, hilarious, and poignant read. "Don Tillman helps us believe in possibility, makes us proud to be human beings, and the bonus is this: he keeps us laughing like hell" (Matthew Quick, author of The Silver Linings Playbook).

*Blurb from FantasticFiction*

Add to:


Links to purchase: