Tash Aw’s novel, The South, offers a poignant exploration of family dynamics, personal growth, and societal challenges in 1997 rural Malaysia. The narTash Aw’s novel, The South, offers a poignant exploration of family dynamics, personal growth, and societal challenges in 1997 rural Malaysia. The narrative centers on the Lim family, who, following the patriarch’s death, return to their ancestral farm—a once-thriving estate now succumbing to neglect and environmental adversities.
Aw’s prose is notably clear and economical, painting vivid scenes with concise language. For instance, he describes the oppressive heat enveloping the characters:
“In this light the land shimmers uncertainly before them. It hasn’t rained for months; the vegetation, usually heavy with moisture, has turned pale and brittle.”
However, some passages exhibit a degree of repetition, which, while possibly intentional to emphasize certain themes, can momentarily disrupt the narrative’s flow. For example, the protagonist reflects on a secluded spot near his school:
“This place offers respite, not just to me but to others like me.”
Shortly thereafter, a similar sentiment is echoed:
“This is a place that people escape to, in search of brief respite.”
The novel employs a non-linear structure, alternating between first-person and third-person perspectives, primarily through the eyes of 16-year-old Jay. While this approach provides multifaceted insights into the characters’ inner worlds, it occasionally renders the narrative somewhat disjointed. Despite this, Aw’s masterful depiction of the Malaysian landscape and the sense of place is wonderful.
As the inaugural instalment of a proposed quartet, The South lays a robust foundation for the Lim family’s saga.
Emma Donoghue’s The Paris Express had all the makings of a thrilling ride—an overnight train, a tense wartime setti“All Aboard the Confusion Express!”
Emma Donoghue’s The Paris Express had all the makings of a thrilling ride—an overnight train, a tense wartime setting, and a plot that promised intrigue. Unfortunately, what we got felt less like the Orient Express and more like a train stuck in a loop, stopping at every possible station of overstuffed character backstories and internal monologues.
There are simply too many people on this train. I expected spies, refugees, and wartime drama, but at some point, I started wondering if even the dining cart had a tragic backstory. Every passenger has thoughts—so many thoughts—most of them muddled and overlapping like a particularly chaotic game of musical chairs. And yes, even the train itself gets a speaking part, which was about the moment I started questioning my life choices.
The concept and setting had potential—after all, an overnight journey through occupied France is inherently dramatic—but the execution derailed somewhere between the excessive character count and the narrative’s need to make sure we hear from everyone. Ultimately, The Paris Express is a journey that’s interesting in theory but exhausting in practice. Maybe next time, fewer passengers? And perhaps let the train just be a train?
Ezra Klein’s Why We’re Polarized is a compelling and well researched exploration of the deepening political divisions in the United States. Rather tha Ezra Klein’s Why We’re Polarized is a compelling and well researched exploration of the deepening political divisions in the United States. Rather than focusing on individual political events, Klein takes a structural approach, showing how American political identities have hardened over time due to shifts in media, party coalitions, and psychological tendencies.
One of the book’s most striking insights comes from a cognitive experiment involving a tricky math problem about how well a skin cream worked. Researchers presented participants with statistical data and asked them to determine whether the cream was effective. When the problem was framed as a neutral scientific question, people who were better at math solved it more accurately. However, when the same mathematical challenge was disguised as a political issue (such as gun control data), people’s ability to reason objectively broke down. Instead of using their math skills to get the right answer, they unconsciously sought answers that aligned with their preexisting political beliefs. This experiment highlights one of Klein’s key arguments: that political identity often overrides rational thinking, making it difficult for people to engage with facts that contradict their ideological commitments.
Klein traces how this dynamic has intensified over time, arguing that American politics has become increasingly “mega-identity” driven. Party affiliation is no longer just about policy preferences—it has become deeply intertwined with race, religion, geography, and cultural attitudes. This, in turn, makes political compromise harder, as disagreements feel personal rather than merely ideological. He also explores the role of media, showing how partisan outlets amplify these divisions, rewarding outrage and reinforcing existing biases.
Though the book is US-focused, its insights have broader relevance. The UK, for instance, has seen a similar hardening of political identities, particularly in the wake of Brexit. ...more
Reading Strangeland as someone who returned to the UK in 2014 after nearly 35 years away, I was particularly interested in Jon Sopel’s perspective on Reading Strangeland as someone who returned to the UK in 2014 after nearly 35 years away, I was particularly interested in Jon Sopel’s perspective on how the country changed between 2014 and 2022. Given his experience as the BBC’s North America editor, Sopel brings an outsider’s lens to both the US and the UK, making his insights especially relevant to those of us who have experienced a similar sense of cultural dislocation.
I found the early chapters less compelling than the later ones, possibly because they felt like a rehash of his previous books. Sopel’s reflections on the UK’s political and social transformations in the wake of Brexit, the pandemic, and leadership upheavals were more engaging, providing fresh observations on a nation struggling with its identity. His sharp wit and journalistic eye make for an entertaining read, particularly when contrasting British and American political cultures.
Overall, Strangeland is an insightful book, particularly for those trying to make sense of the UK’s evolution in recent years. While the earlier sections may feel familiar to those who have followed Sopel’s work, the later chapters offer a thought-provoking look at a country that has undergone profound changes in a short period....more
Malcolm Gladwell has built a career on distilling complex ideas into engaging narratives, but Revenge of the Tipping Point is a frustrating departure Malcolm Gladwell has built a career on distilling complex ideas into engaging narratives, but Revenge of the Tipping Point is a frustrating departure from his usual style. Rather than offering fresh insights, the book meanders through loosely connected anecdotes, struggling to reach a coherent conclusion.
One of the most glaring issues is Gladwell’s writing style, which has taken a turn for the overly casual and even condescending. His sentences are littered with phrases such as “Oh my,” “Are you kidding me?” and “You guessed it,” making the book feel more like a drawn-out TED Talk than a serious exploration of societal change. While he has always been a conversational writer, this time it feels like he’s trying too hard to be folksy, at the expense of clarity and depth.
Worse, the book takes an exasperatingly long time to get to the point. Gladwell introduces ideas in a roundabout way, often spending entire chapters setting up a premise that could have been delivered in a few pages. The narrative jumps between stories and concepts without clear transitions, leaving the reader wondering how it all ties together. By the time he does offer an insight, it often feels underwhelming—like a magician revealing a trick we had already figured out.
The book starts with an account of a political hearing in which the identities of the participants are concealed. It’s obvious from the outset that he’s referring to Purdue Pharma, the company at the centre of the opioid crisis in the US. Yet, Gladwell insists on maintaining a false sense of mystery, as if he’s revealing something shocking. By the final chapter, he finally confirms what any informed reader knew all along: Purdue Pharma played a key role in the epidemic. This chapter does little more than rehash a well-covered story, adding nothing new to the discussion.
Ultimately, Revenge of the Tipping Point feels like a book in search of a purpose. Gladwell’s signature storytelling is bogged down by unnecessary theatrics, and his insights—when they do arrive—feel either painfully obvious or disappointingly shallow. Readers looking for the sharp analysis of The Tipping Point or Outliers will likely come away feeling let down....more
Julie Clark’s latest novel, The Ghostwriter, attempts to weave a tale of family secrets and suspense but ultimately falls short in delivering a compel
Julie Clark’s latest novel, The Ghostwriter, attempts to weave a tale of family secrets and suspense but ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. The story centers on Olivia Dumont, a ghostwriter coerced into penning her estranged father’s memoir—a father notorious for the alleged murder of his siblings decades prior.
One of the primary issues with the novel is its predictability. The plot unfolds in a manner that leaves little room for surprise, making the so-called twists feel more like gentle turns.
Character development is another area where the book falters. Olivia, as the protagonist, comes across as one-dimensional, making it challenging for readers to form a genuine connection or invest in her journey. Her interactions with other characters feel superficial, lacking the depth needed to drive the emotional core of the story.
Furthermore, the narrative structure, with its alternating timelines between the present and the events of 1975, is executed in a disjointed manner. This approach disrupts the story’s flow for me.
In conclusion, while The Ghostwriter had the potential to be a gripping thriller, it is marred by its predictability, shallow character portrayals, and a fragmented narrative structure. Readers seeking a suspenseful and emotionally resonant story may find themselves disappointed.
I picked up Great Short Books while looking for short but compelling reads for a book club, hoping for fresh recommendations. Davis presents a selecti
I picked up Great Short Books while looking for short but compelling reads for a book club, hoping for fresh recommendations. Davis presents a selection of 58 short novels, each under 200 pages, and offers a brief synopsis, context, and commentary on why each book matters.
While the concept is appealing, many of Davis’s choices feel fairly predictable. Classics like Animal Farm by George Orwell, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, and The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald are hardly surprising inclusions, as they are already widely read and studied. Other selections, such as Passing by Nella Larsen and Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin, add some welcome variety, but overall, the list leans heavily on well-established works. ...more
“A suitcase is never empty each one is so full of plans hopes and dreams that there is barely room for clothes no wonder we have to sit on it to get i“A suitcase is never empty each one is so full of plans hopes and dreams that there is barely room for clothes no wonder we have to sit on it to get it shut.”
I’ve read and enjoyed several of Chris Hammer’s books, but The Broken River didn’t quite live up to his usual standard. While his writing is always at
I’ve read and enjoyed several of Chris Hammer’s books, but The Broken River didn’t quite live up to his usual standard. While his writing is always atmospheric and detailed, this one felt bogged down by too much repetition in the storyline and an overabundance of characters, making it difficult to stay fully engaged.
I also found it hard to invest in the plot surrounding Nell’s past, which should have been a compelling thread but never quite captured my interest. It’s a shame because Hammer’s books are usually a great read for me, but this one just didn’t hit the mark.
Martha Márquez’s Mexico City Cocktails is a feast for the senses, beautifully blending vibrant photography, creative recipes, and a celebration of Mex
Martha Márquez’s Mexico City Cocktails is a feast for the senses, beautifully blending vibrant photography, creative recipes, and a celebration of Mexico City’s rich cultural heritage. The book is stunningly photographed, with every cocktail captured in a way that evokes the lively, artistic spirit of the city itself. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to head straight to the kitchen—or the nearest cocktail bar.
One of the standout features is Márquez’s attention to detail. Each recipe not only outlines the ingredients and method but even specifies the type of glass to use, adding a professional touch for those looking to recreate these drinks authentically. However, many of the recipes call for specialised ingredients that might prove challenging for the average home bartender. For instance, not many of us have edible rice paper printed with a portrait of Frida Kahlo just lying around! While this might make some recipes less accessible, it also highlights the creativity and artistry behind each drink.
As with most recipe books I’ve read in e-book format, I couldn’t help but feel this one would be far better as a hard copy. The tactile experience of flipping through its vibrant pages, cocktail in hand, would add another layer of enjoyment to the book.
All in all, Mexico City Cocktails is a lovely addition to any cocktail enthusiast’s collection. For me, it brought back wonderful memories of many trips to Mexico City—its colours, its energy, and, of course, its unforgettable flavours. While it may not be the most practical for everyday use, it’s an inspiring and visually delightful celebration of a truly remarkable city.
The Place of Tides is a contemplative and introspective read, offering a beautifully written exploration of memory, identity, and the profound connectThe Place of Tides is a contemplative and introspective read, offering a beautifully written exploration of memory, identity, and the profound connection between people and the places that shape them. While the book is undeniably well-crafted, it occasionally feels as though its core material—a thoughtful and evocative meditation—might have been better suited to a long-form magazine article rather than a full-length book.
That said, the quality of the prose is undeniable, with passages that linger in the mind long after reading. The author excels at creating vivid, atmospheric descriptions, as seen in lines such as: “The tide whispered against the shingle, retreating in rhythms as old as the earth itself, leaving behind its treasures—fragments of shell, pieces of driftwood, a necklace of seaweed strung across the shore like a gift from the sea.”
Similarly, the introspective tone allows for moments of deep reflection, such as: “We do not leave the places we love; they cling to us, weaving themselves into our very being until we carry them like shadows, even when the light shifts and they’re no longer visible.”
While these moments of brilliance are scattered throughout the text, the narrative as a whole occasionally feels stretched thin, as though the central themes and ideas are revisited one too many times in slightly different guises. The book’s introspective nature, while a strength, sometimes slows the pacing, making it feel less like a novel and more like an extended essay with fictional elements woven in. ...more
I’m surprised by the amount of praise All the Colours of the Dark has received. Perhaps I went in with expectations set too high, but this was one of I’m surprised by the amount of praise All the Colours of the Dark has received. Perhaps I went in with expectations set too high, but this was one of the most frustrating and disjointed reading experiences I’ve had in a while.
The book’s structure is a mess, with extremely short chapters that left the narrative feeling fragmented and shallow. Every time I started to get even mildly invested in a scene, it would abruptly end, forcing me to reorient myself constantly. This disjointedness was only made worse by the author’s relentless use of short, staccato sentences. It felt like reading the outline of a story rather than the finished product.
For example, lines like: “She ran. Through the door. Into the dark. Nothing followed. She waited. Stillness.” or “He thought he knew. But he didn’t. It didn’t matter. He tried again.”
are scattered throughout the book. While these may have been intended to create tension, the effect was the exact opposite—they were tiresome, repetitive, and robbed the story of any rhythm or flow.
I have to admit, I didn’t finish the book. Life, like the author’s sentences, is simply too short to waste on a story that doesn’t hold your attention. Perhaps this style works for some, but it left me cold and frustrated. A deeply disappointing read....more
The book beautifully explores the evolution of England’s churches and churchyards, from their earliest beginnings to their roles in modern society. Ha The book beautifully explores the evolution of England’s churches and churchyards, from their earliest beginnings to their roles in modern society. Hayman has a knack for weaving together architectural details, cultural history, and human stories, making each chapter as engaging as it is informative. Whether he’s describing the soaring spires of medieval Gothic cathedrals or the humble simplicity of a Saxon parish church, his writing strikes a perfect balance between scholarly and accessible.
One of the highlights is Hayman’s discussion of churchyards, which he treats not as mere burial grounds but as places rich with symbolism, artistry, and social history. His descriptions of gravestones, epitaphs, and memorials are fascinating, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives and beliefs of those who came before us. ....more
An excellent selection of short stories. For me Consider Her Ways was the strongest. A thought-provoking novella that has stood the test of time remarAn excellent selection of short stories. For me Consider Her Ways was the strongest. A thought-provoking novella that has stood the test of time remarkably well. First published in 1956, it combines science fiction with social commentary, using its speculative premise to explore themes of gender, power, and societal structure.
The novella tells the story of Jane Waterleigh, a woman who awakens in a dystopian future where men no longer exist, and society is entirely governed by women. In this matriarchal world, women are divided into rigidly defined classes based on their physicality and societal roles. The narrative is cleverly framed through the lens of a drug-induced vision, which allows Wyndham to explore not only the mechanics of this hypothetical society but also its moral and philosophical implications.
What makes Consider Her Ways endure is Wyndham’s sharp critique of how societies impose rigid roles based on perceived biological “destinies.” The future world he depicts is not a utopia but a cautionary tale. It challenges the idea that eliminating one gender—or the hierarchical dominance of one over another—would automatically resolve humanity’s problems. Instead, it examines how power structures, if left unchecked, can become equally oppressive, regardless of who wields them.
When compared to The Handmaid’s Tale, Consider Her Ways is more analytical and speculative in its approach. Atwood delves deeply into the personal suffering of her protagonist, Offred, highlighting the brutal realities of systemic oppression, whereas Wyndham offers a broader, detached commentary. This difference in tone makes Consider Her Ways less emotionally engaging but no less intellectually stimulating.
Despite its age, the novella felt strikingly modern in its themes: gender roles, reproductive rights, and societal inequality. While some of Wyndham’s language and characterisation might feel dated, the core ideas remain powerful and relevant. ...more
I look forward to the release of a Buzz Books which are typically a five star rating from me. Only four stars for this one because there were so few bI look forward to the release of a Buzz Books which are typically a five star rating from me. Only four stars for this one because there were so few books included that grabbed me. Perhaps it was my mood will give it another go....more
This is an engaging and accessible exploration of George Orwell’s work and its enduring relevance in today’s political climate. Beers’ confronts his f This is an engaging and accessible exploration of George Orwell’s work and its enduring relevance in today’s political climate. Beers’ confronts his flaws—including his occasionally problematic views on gender and race—while emphasizing the continued importance of his critiques of power, imperialism, and disinformation.
Beers deftly illustrates how Orwell’s warnings resonate in our modern context. For example, she links his condemnation of propaganda and the manipulation of truth in 1984 to the spread of fake news and “alternative facts” in today’s media landscape, particularly in the UK and US. The rise of populist politics, as seen in Brexit campaigns and Donald Trump’s presidency, echoes Orwell’s fears about the erosion of objective truth. Similarly, his critique of authoritarianism in Animal Farm feels alarmingly relevant as political leaders worldwide use surveillance and fear to consolidate power. ...more
Reading Montalbano’s First Case felt like slipping into a warm bath—soothing, familiar, and utterly satisfying. Having read all of Andrea Camilleri’s Reading Montalbano’s First Case felt like slipping into a warm bath—soothing, familiar, and utterly satisfying. Having read all of Andrea Camilleri’s Montalbano books except for the last two, I was delighted to discover this short story. It offered a fascinating glimpse into the early days of Montalbano’s career, including his move to Vigàta and the beginnings of his sharp, intuitive style of policing.
The story transported me back to a very hot, sunny summer in Toronto when I devoured six Montalbano novels back-to-back in a weekend, lounging on the patio. Camilleri’s evocative descriptions of Sicilian life, combined with Montalbano’s wit and charm, made me feel like I was revisiting an old friend. This short story is a perfect treat for long-time fans and a great introduction for new readers. Highly recommended...more
Makoto Shinkai’s She and Her Cat is a tender, lyrical exploration of human and feline connections, told through four interconnected stories. Each vign
Makoto Shinkai’s She and Her Cat is a tender, lyrical exploration of human and feline connections, told through four interconnected stories. Each vignette offers a distinct perspective on love, loneliness, and resilience, all tied together by the bond between cats and their human companions. The narrative’s simplicity belies its depth, as quiet moments resonate with universal truths.
1. “The Rain”
The first story, “The Rain,” introduces Miyu, a young woman struggling with solitude after moving out on her own, and her loyal cat, Chobi. Narrated partly from Chobi’s perspective, the story captures the purity of their bond. Chobi’s devotion is heartwarming: “She has the scent of rain, of warmth, of home.” This line encapsulates how he sees her as his entire world, grounding the reader in the unspoken comfort pets provide.
Miyu, on the other hand, reflects the uncertainties of adulthood. Her quiet perseverance, even as she faces challenges, mirrors Chobi’s unshakable loyalty. Their relationship feels like a haven amid life’s unpredictability, setting the emotional tone for the anthology.
2. “The Clouds”
In “The Clouds,” Reina, a freelance illustrator, navigates the insecurities of her career and personal life. Her cat, Mimi, is a contrast to Chobi—a haughty yet insightful observer. Mimi’s sharp commentary on Reina’s struggles offers both humor and poignancy: “Humans are funny. They fret over things that don’t matter, while the world keeps spinning without them.”
This story delves into the pressures of artistic ambition and the weight of self-doubt, themes that will resonate with anyone who’s felt adrift. Mimi’s playful arrogance softens these heavier ideas, reminding us that joy can be found in the simplest of moments.
3. “The Town”
“The Town” shifts perspective to a high school girl, Shino, and her stray cat, Kuro. Shino faces the alienation of adolescence, while Kuro embodies the resilience required to survive the harsh realities of life on the streets. Their relationship is tentative but transformative, as Shino learns to open her heart through caring for Kuro.
A particularly touching moment occurs when Kuro muses, “She saved me with her voice. It wasn’t loud, but it was enough to keep the darkness away.” This illustrates how even small gestures can forge deep connections, a theme that runs throughout the collection.
4. “The Garden”
The final story, “The Garden,” ties the narratives together, focusing on a retired woman, Noriko, and her elderly cat, Cookie. This poignant tale reflects on aging, loss, and the enduring comfort of companionship. Cookie’s reflections are especially moving as he senses the end of his life approaching: “I’ve watched the seasons change so many times, yet each one feels like the first when I’m with her.”
Noriko, grappling with the death of her husband, finds solace in Cookie’s presence. Their shared memories and quiet understanding bring the anthology full circle, celebrating the cyclical nature of love and life.
Final Thoughts
She and Her Cat is a gentle, meditative work that captures the essence of companionship through beautifully rendered prose. The interconnected stories highlight the depth of the human-animal bond, with each relationship revealing different facets of love, loss, and hope. The alternating perspectives—both human and feline—offer fresh insights, reminding us of the quiet, enduring connections that shape our lives.
This collection is a must-read for anyone who’s ever found solace in a pet’s quiet presence. It’s a celebration of the unspoken yet profound ways we touch each other’s lives, leaving an indelible mark on the heart....more
John Banville’s The Drowned delivers the kind of exquisite prose readers have come to expect from him. His writing is masterful, filled with subtle be
John Banville’s The Drowned delivers the kind of exquisite prose readers have come to expect from him. His writing is masterful, filled with subtle beauty and nuance, drawing you effortlessly into the story’s depths. The atmosphere is hauntingly vivid, a blend of brooding tension and lyrical description that lingers in the mind long after the final page. Banville creates a setting so tangible, it feels as if you could step into its shadows.
However, as much as I admired the craftsmanship, the novel didn’t quite work as a standalone for me. I felt like I was missing key context or backstory, which left me somewhat adrift in the narrative. I suspect my experience would have been enriched had I read The Lock-Up first. While The Drowned is undoubtedly a fine piece of literary fiction, I found myself wishing for the fuller perspective that comes with understanding the wider world Banville has created.
A beautifully written, atmospheric novel—but, for me, best enjoyed as part of the larger series....more