Tag Archives: book

The Risk of Judging a Book by Its Cover

Posted on by
8

I’m going to do X, Y, and Z today, and that’s that. I’m a planner, organizer, and regulator. I like routine, and I have a hard time functioning when my ducks aren’t all in a row. Although I absolutely love spontaneity, it does not come naturally for me. So I linger in the moments when I’m compelled to do something out of the ordinary. With around 150 books on my to-read list, 40 or so of which I own and have piled up on my desk, I always pick up books that have been personally researched and recommended. Well, nearly always.

A few years ago, I purchased my first unplanned book, Something Missing: A Novel by Matthew Dicks, at the used book store. The book was was my favorite color, and the blurb on the back was intriguing – a career criminal with OCD tendencies steals small household items from the same people for years, completely undetected. I was sold. And the book was surprisingly good. It’s an easy read, smart with just enough witty humor to keep the reader continually entertained.

There’s something exciting about not knowing what to expect, not having any idea what may lie ahead, and being okay with the not knowing. And there’s both comfort and titillation in taking a small risk, and in having things turn out better than you had expected. A new book is a small and simplistic example, but an effective one.

A few weeks ago I picked up yet another “mystery” book from my favorite independent bookstore. Broken by Karin Fossum, was discreetly tucked away at the bottom of the staff recommendations shelf. I was drawn to the woman’s face on the cover, and held the book more tightly after reading the summary. An author wakes up to find one of her characters standing above her, begging her to tell his story, and she does. I wandered the story, picked up the books I had intended to buy, and then stared down at the unexpected item in my hands. It sounds amazing, but how can I know if it really is? I debated for the longest time whether it was worth the risk – do I want to spend $15 on a potentially awful book? In the end I bought it. And I’m glad it did. The plot-line is compelling and the writing style is complex, slightly reminiscent of the movie, Stranger Than Fiction. It was an enthralling read, and I almost didn’t take a chance on it.

Risk is defined as “ the potential that a chosen action or activity (including the choice of inaction) will lead to a loss.” Risk, in and of itself, entails not knowing. However, that unknown territory is just as likely to lead to gains as losses. Taking a risk is often worth that chance. When we’re uncertain of what’s ahead, we generally don’t get our hopes up too high, and thus become excited over average outcomes. When things don’t go well, it’s okay because we weren’t expecting much anyways; in addition, failures are often the best opportunities for learning. Had either of my randomly chosen books fallen short, I’m sure I’d still have been pleased with myself for trying something new. Taking risks is frightening and often a challenge, but the gleaming uncertainty is also exciting, because in it lies hope for something new, better, and potentially life-changing.

I’m one of the most risk-averse people I know, and often struggle with situations that I can’t control. However, through small challenges, risks, and steps outside my comfort zone, I’ve learned that there is there is an overwhelming potential for positivity in new experiences, whether opening up to someone, traveling across the globe, or picking up a new book.

Lolita

Posted on by
5

Lolita by Vladmir Nabkov is the classic story of a middle-aged pedophile and his obsessive love for a twelve-year-old girl; however, it is not simply the story of a ravenous man taking advantage of a young girl. Rather, the story is a compelling and in-depth exploration of the relationship between Mr. Humbert and his young lover, Dolores Haze, as recalled by the protagonist.

The protagonist and narrator, Humbert Humbert uses eloquent and seductive language to mesmerize his reader and breathe life into the story. Anyone who’s been following this blog for a while knows how much I love words. The brilliant vocabulary and magnificent mastery of tone in Lolita build the story, draw the reader in, and evoke simultaneously feelings of repulsion at Humbert’s thoughts and actions and sympathy towards his insatiable yearning.

Apparently there has been discussion as to whether the book is pornographic or simply an innocent love story. I would argue that the answer to that question is irrelevant. As long as a story is well-written and engaging, the topic, vantage point, and author’s ideals are momentarily irrelevant. All the reader cares about is what’s going to happen next. Like my favorite novel, 2666, Lolita is slightly disturbing, yet somehow still beautiful. Erudite and crude. Poetic, yet perverse.

The book in no way suggests that pedophilia is acceptable, nor that perpetrators are deserving of sympathy. Instead, the story dissects the most intimate thoughts and emotions of a father, a criminal, an average run-of-the-mill man.

Although the plot was not stellar or elaborately complex, the story was still powerful due to the intimate details and choice diction. Although, admittedly, it will sound completely abhorrent to some, and rub others the wrong way when they attempt to read it, I think it’s a great book for anyone who enjoys reading or is keen on classic literature and banned books.

The Four Elements: Reflections on Nature

Posted on by
3

The Four Elements: Reflections on Nature by John O’Donohue explores the grandeur of the natural world in relation to spirituality and the human experience. There are sections on each element – water, stone, air, and fire – as well portions explaining the interactions and bonds between the elements.

Understanding the elements of the earth is fundamental to attaining a grasp on spirituality, ancient wisdom, and meaningful living. The author’s dialogue is poetic and a uniquely creative look at the seemingly mundane, yet intricately beautiful details of the natural world that surrounds us.

Along with lovely reflections on Earth’s elements, O’Donohue includes some of his ideas on human nature, behaviors, and beliefs. The combination of insight and euphonious prose creates an exquisite and subtly affective narrative.

“There are certain people who work very committedly, who slog meticulously toward their goal, but without one stitch of inspiration. Then there are inspired people who never get a line on their gift – they lack the patience and discipline to bring the possibilities within their gift to form. The ideal is when these two extremes come into balance in the life of the artist.”

This particular quote especially resonates with me. Life truly is about find a balance between passion and hard work, creative inspiration and self-discipline. As with the four elements, ostensibly unrelated concepts can work hand-in-hand and complement one another. Often times there are connections and relationships that we would recognize if we simply paid attention. The Four Elements is a wonderful reminder to observe the world around you, as well as the world within.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Posted on by
5

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of those books that everyone has read, and everyone loves. Stephen Chbosky’s young adult novel follows Charlie though his first year of high school, through a series of letters that the protagonist sends to an anonymous friend.

I first read the book when I was thirteen. The book felt profound and relatable, yet uncomfortable at the time. I think most adolescents, at one time or another, feel lonely or out-of-place and this story captures those feeling so beautifully.

The book touches on all the difficult topics and struggles of growing up – family issues, friendships, relationships, sex, homosexuality, drugs, suicide, sexual abuse, depression, abortion, not fitting in – and it’s hard to grasp it all at younger age. Ten years later, rereading the book, it was not only easier to read, but far easier to appreciate. Having lived, experienced, and developed an understanding of the issues at hand, his story feels less foreign and scary. After the second reading, it’s definitely climbed higher on my all-time-favorites list.

The book is powerful and moving, a touching exploration of a fifteen-year-old boy transitioning from a little boy into a man and all the hardships that accompany that transition. An observant wallflower, Charlie takes in everyone and everything around him, often allowing himself to be overcome by emotion and anxiety, yet allowing the reader a glimpse into his life, both external situations and thoughts within his mind.

It amazes me that such a sad and heavy book could be so beautiful and wonderfully portrayed. It’s a quick read, yet the type of book that can really change your perspective on life. I would recommend it to just about anyone over high school age.

The Third Reich

Posted on by
2

The Third Reich was written by Roberto Bolaño in 1989 and found among his papers after his death in 2003, and serves as an early example of the literary genius coming into his own.

In this mesmerizing and engrossing tale, the German war games champion Udo Berger and his girlfriend Ingeborg visit the resort town of Costa Brava in Spain where Udo’s family vacationed in his youth. While Ingeborg is out making new friends and laying out on the beach, Udo is in his room obsessing over the war game Third Reich and writing papers on new strategies.

In a strange turn of events, a new friend from the trip goes missing and Udo refuses to leave the town until the body is found, despite the fact that the city is quickly being drained of vacationers (including Ingeborg) as the weather shifts. During this time, Udo meets a challenger who may actually pose a threat, both on his champion status and his life.

Although I’m not too knowledgeable about war games and battle geography, the laspes of misunderstanding were outweighted by the interesting characters, dialogue, and supurb use of language. The atmosphere Bolaño conveys in his novel is honest and real, a true expression of experience. The way in which he describes his world – the world he’s built in his novel –  is beautiful and relatable, simple yet profound and touching.

“I scarcely move a muscle, though inside I’m falling apart.”

I found it fascinating to read a predecessor to some of Bolaño’s more recent and well-recognized works. Although somewhat less coherent and intriguing than some of his other stories, The Third Reich mirrored the eloquent, surreal, glamorous, and raw style that defines Bolaño’s work.

Although I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, I would not necessarily recommend this book to someone unfamiliar with Bolaño. Those who have read and enjoyed 2666, The Savage Detectives, or any of his other short stories would surely appreciate this book. For those unfamiliar with, but interested in his works, I’d advise starting with 2666.

The Best Books of 2011, Not Necessarily Published in 2011

Posted on by
12

Unlike the big guys, I can’t afford to buy every new release. Thus, my “favorites and recommendations” list will consist of the best books I’ve read this past year – ranging from classics to new releases, from spirituality to science, and everything in between. I’ll organize by genre, but won’t limit myself to one book per category. I’ll include links to those I’ve reviewed.

Best Inspirational:

Best Self-Help:

Favorite Classics:

Best Fiction:

Best Young Adult Fiction:

Best Science:

Most Interesting:

Best Free e-books:

Enjoy!

 

Spirit Junkie

Posted on by
Reply

Spirit Junkie: A Radical Road to Self-Love and Miracles is a spiritual self-help book in which Gabrielle Bernstein explores her transformation from a perpetually anxious individual to a woman who has discovered and come to fully trust her inner guide. Bernstein’s ultimate vision is to empower young women by teaching them how to listen to and follow their inner voice, which she names ”~ing.”

After a lifetime of seeking acceptance and fulfillment, Gabrielle hits rock-bottom in her mid-twenties when she becomes hooked on cocaine, caught up in serious partying, and addicted to unhealthy relationships. At this point she commits to following teachings from the book A Course in Miracles and surrenders to a greater power and the voice within, accepting guidance and letting go of the need to fill someone else’s mold of perfection.

Although I read the book with an open mind, most topics and ideas did not resonate with me. The book is, however, aimed at my demographic – twenty-something women who are seeking fulfillment, spiritual connection, and happiness. It may be more appropriate for those who have had their world shattered by addition, toxic relationships, or illusions crafted by the mind, as they are better equipped to understand to the author’s anecdotes.

I’m happy to see Gabrielle at peace with herself and I’m sincerely proud of what she has overcome to reach her high level of spiritual awareness, yet I’m not convinced her message or experience is book-worthy. Gabrielle’s ideas are not new, but rather the fundamental teachings of great spiritual gurus applied to her own experience. I fully trust the depth of her spiritual experience and her power to help others, but I feel she comes across as somewhat self-righteous throughout the book.

Gabrielle has been gifted with experiences that have brought her wisdom that many people spend a lifetime searching for, and I think that those on the same frequency as her have much to gain from listening to her message.

Even though her experience of spirituality and her road to enlightenment is vastly different from my own, the book is filled with several gems of wisdom that bridged a small connection between us, my favorite being, “We all have a spiritual connection of our own understanding.” I could not have said it better myself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Post Grad

Posted on by
2

College graduation is an exciting milestone, but it can also be quite terrifying. Friends you once saw daily are moving to the other side of the country or taking on full-time jobs. Despite a strong resume, job after job turns down your application. Rather than moving into that great apartment downtown, you have no choice but to join four years worth of accumulated junk in your childhood bedroom.

Post Grad by Emily Cassel follows Ryden Malby, a lifetime overachiever, through the months following graduation. Despite all her hard work and preparation, she doesn’t land her dream job, or any other job for that matter. After an interesting turn of events, Ryden realizes that her sights just may be set on the wrong ideals, and chooses to give up her lifelong dreams to follow her heart.

The book was cheesy and predictable, with a somewhat shallow plot and character development, but I still enjoyed it. Considering I’m in a similar situation to the protagonist, I could relate to many of her thoughts and emotions. The characters were quirky and, at times, reminded me of those from of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series. The book is typical “chick lit, ” with love interests, conflicts, and a happy ending. However, it’s a fun and quick read that I think many recent college graduates will be able to connect with, and thus appreciate.

Books I’ve Acquired in the Last Week

Posted on by
6

Between birthday gifts, an irresistible online book sale, and some complimentary books from Random House Publishing, my to-read pile has more than doubled in the last week or so. Now, if only my shelf space could do the same…

I’m really looking forward to reading all of these in the near future and sharing what I think!

Look Again

Posted on by
1

What would you do if you saw your child’s face on a missing child flyer?

Ellen adopted one-year old Will after the news reporter visited the hospital and saw the young boy fighting for life. With little trouble, the single woman was able to adopt Will and take him home.

In her fictional novel Look Again, Lisa Scottoline explores what might happen if the child you legally adopted turned out to be the kidnapped and direly missed child of another couple.

After seeing the spitting image of her son on a missing child flyer, Ellen begins to investigate, continually growing more confused and desperate for answers. Does her son have a twin? Or was he kidnapped and put up for adoption? Suspicious grow as the adoption lawyer is found to have committed suicide, the mother listed on the birth certificate is found to have overdosed on heroin, and the father listed on the birth certificate does not exists.

Ellen goes to extreme lengths to discover the truth about the identity of her son and his relation, if any, to the boy on the flyer. She inquires as to her legal rights in the case Will really was kidnapped, and despite knowledge that she could lose him if she discovers the truth, her reporter instincts kick in and she sets out to figure things out.

The book is full of unexpected twists, dynamic characters, and incredible descriptives. The story teeters on that fine line between completely unrealistic and entirely possible.

Look Again was a great read and I plan on checking out more of Lisa Scottoline’s novels in the future.