April Book Blog

Harry’s top pick of the month - “Yellow Wife” by Sadeqa Johnson

Below: Easter & the last “first day” of teaching during my PhD work

While the arrival of April typically means that we are well into Spring with sunny days and the budding of trees, Munich decided that it should rain. Every day. When we first moved to Munich, we were in such awe of how pleasant and mild the weather was - the winters were cold, but not as cold as Nebraska; the summers were hot, but at least it wasn’t humid. But now Munich has shown its true, blue colors. Still, we managed to push through one more month of staying inside because we could finally embrace the fact that we are moving back home soon!

So within this last month, we have celebrated Easter in our tiny apartment yet again. Last year, our first solo COVID-holiday was Easter, and now it feels as if we have come full circle, having finally mastered the art of tiny kitchen holiday co-cooking. Speaking of The Masters, it should come as no surprise that we watched every possible minute of its coverage in addition to all of the Husker baseball games. Waking up early (and by early, I mean at 9 AM) and watching baseball while drinking coffee and reading has become a huge highlight of my week. I started my final teaching semester at TUM as a doctoral student 😢 and have immersed myself completely in work, trying to accomplish as much as possible before coming home. I also had my first experience at the doctor in a foreign country (Have I ever mentioned how intimidating German is as a language? 😆), but recovered with the Ru Paul Drag Race season finale and homemade brownie sundaes while trying to organize and prepare for our move back to the US. So all of this is to say that April was a strange but productive month. And as I try to figure out what the common theme is of the books I read, I notice that my reading seemed to reflect my life: totally disjointed, but still enjoyable. 

To the End of June by Cris Beam - 4 ⭑

To the End of June: The Intimate Life of American Foster Care demonstrates the harrowing and systemic issues within our foster care system. Cris Beam weaves the history of the foster care system with the legislative movements that defined specific eras while simultaneously providing several first-person narratives of entire families within the system. For example, Beam would provide a personal example of a common dilemma in foster care: if the parents who surrendered their babies at birth due to addiction, unsafe environments, etc. figure out a way to provide a safe environment for their child, is it always right to return the child to their birth parents or are they better off with their new foster parents that they have been with since birth? The law often treats these issues as if they were black or white, but there are so many complexities to examine within each side. Beam effectively illustrates the human experience of foster care, getting us emotionally invested in each party involved, and then provides statistics and information for all outcomes possible, most of which are never unilaterally (if at all) beneficial. It seems that the purpose of the book is not to provide solutions to current issues in foster care, but rather to highlight how they exist and how difficult they are to overcome.

In many ways, reading this book felt hopeless at times - even with attentive and loving foster parents with the best intentions (at least at first), the system itself fundamentally alters the individuals within it and is often run like a business, leaving those in foster care with unprocessed trauma and the lifelong ramifications of that. If the purpose of the book was to indeed highlight current issues, I still ultimately feel like there is literally nothing we can do to truly remedy the deleterious consequences of years of foster care. I wish there were more practical and tangible ways provided for communities and individuals, because at this point, I’m sort of like “so now what?” But still, it is well-written and provides context on an important system that many of us do not fully understand.

Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust - 5 ⭑

“I think you have so much power within you that it scares you, and that you make yourself small on purpose because you don’t know what you’ll become if you ever stop.”

— Melissa Bashardoust, “Girl, Serpent, Thorn”

I used to actively look for fairy tale retellings as one of my favorite genres to read, and while it still absolutely is, they become repetitive once you read enough. There seem to be common themes: a girl who hates herself/her circumstances/her captor at the beginning of the story; some big-time action sequences that you can visualize as a movie in your head; sweeping romances with grand gestures; the rescue of the damsel in distress (usually by the love interest, but sometimes by a family member or friend); and a lot of plot points with minor emphasis on character development. And sometimes you’re exactly in the mood for that and that’s a recipe that just works for you. But sometimes, you get a story that highlights an unknown culture, blends magic with traditions, and spends extra time on developing a character, showing the evolution of character-defining epiphanies and how they use this new sort of wisdom to understand others better. Girl, Serpent, Thorn was a slow burn, and I’m sure that’s why it’s receiving the full gambit of reviews, but for me, this was a 5-star read.

The book started off with a mother telling her daughter Soraya, the hidden princess, her origins and how she was the outcome of a curse by a div that makes her poisonous when touched. Because of this, she had to hide from the rest of court and feared getting too close to others, lest she kills someone. As the wedding of her brother (the prince) to an estranged childhood friend nears, a demon is captured and imprisoned in the castle. Soraya, with the help of a new enchanting guard Azad, tries to visit the imprisoned demon to see if they know how to remove her curse. Soraya meets a few times with the prisoner, who is a parik (sort of like a fairy), and learns that the cost of removing the curse is high. Without revealing too much, the author blends several Persian fairytales and we watch Soraya’s journey to accepting herself.

Though it started off sort of slow, I felt surprised often (not always though) at where the plot was going, but was so impressed by how dynamic the main characters became. At one point, the main characters were all the villain and at others, they were the hero, depending on whose story was being told. One of my favorite insights by Soraya highlighted this dilemma: "It seemed to her sometimes that she could only ever be one thing or the other, a mouse or a viper, with nothing in between. And if that were true, then she didn’t know which she would choose. Either way brought her misery and shame.” I know that people want more “fireworks” and action movie scenes in these type of books, but as a 30-year old former fairytale fanatic, I felt like this book elevated the genre and is pushing the boundaries on what it can be.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg - 5 ⭑

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler is a timeless, childhood classic. My mom used to buy us the packs of Newbery Medal books when we were kids and I will always remember the day that she brought this particular pack home because she excitedly reminisced about her love for this book. In that moment, it became so important for me to figure out why she loved this book so much and for that love to hopefully be something we shared. And it was.

The book starts with a young girl named Claudia who meticulously plans how to run away from home with one of her younger brothers, Jamie. While Claudia manages the plan, Jamie is the financier and accountant, making sure they don’t overspend so that they can prolong their excursion. As part of the plan, Claudia decides that they should pack all of their clothes and necessities in their instrument cases and stay in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. They bathe in the fountains, leave and do their laundry, eat out sparingly, and learn new things in the museum every day. When a mysterious piece of art that attracts thousands of visitors comes to the museum, the sibling pair is determined to get to the bottom of who created it. In their quest to feel different as a result of running away, their bond strengthens with each other and they learn more about themselves individually. I didn’t know if it would feel too simplistic when re-reading it as an adult, but the book is still and will always be great. I can’t wait to share it with my future children, as my mother did with me, and to continue to dream about what it would be like to live in a museum.

Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson - 5 ⭑

“Whenever I started feeling as if I could endure this place, there was always a reminder that I could not.”

— Sadeqa Johnson, “Yellow Wife"

The Yellow Wife is one of the most compelling and tragic historical fiction pieces I have ever read. I was immediately engrossed by the book, entranced by the dynamic characters Sadeqa Johnson created and needing to finish the story in an attempt to find some sort of closure in young Pheby’s story.

The novel begins with Pheby Delores Brown, who is the child of a slave mother and the plantation owner, Master Jacob, in a plantation in Virginia. Because Master Jacob loves Pheby’s mother, and by extension Pheby, she has been afforded certain privileges throughout her childhood, including an education by Master Jacob’s sister, piano lessons, and no harsh punishments. Though Pheby and her mother officially work as seamstresses, Pheby learns natural medicinal remedies from her mother, who constantly reminds her that “she’s a slave by name, but never in her mind.” When Pheby is promoted to work with Master Jacob’s wife, who greatly dislikes her because she is Master Jacob’s daughter, she struggles to balance obeying her mother’s orders, performing her duties satisfactorily, and sneaking in enough time with Essex, the handsome stable boy and her boyfriend. Though Master Jacob has always promised that Pheby will go to school in the north and become free once she turns eighteen, a tumultuous series of events occurs that forever alters her life and dreams. As we watch Pheby have to do whatever she needs to do to survive and protect those she loves, we get a horrifying look at slavery, plantations, and the South.

This book was painful to read - Sadeqa Johnson conducted such thorough research on slavery in her specific area that many of the characters are real people and/or based on real people. Although there is no way to actually know how these people behaved and how they felt about their circumstances, Johnson did an exceptional job creating real people with hopes, fears, and different motives. There were several scenes that were so brutally difficult to read because she did not soften or censor any aspect of the South, painting the events as they actually happened and the people as they actually were. This will certainly be an unforgettable read for me and I think its poignant portrayal of slavery in the South will impact many readers. 

The Astonishing Color of After by Emily X.R. Pan - 4 ⭑

Wow, a powerful YA novel that addresses depression, suicide, and multiracial identity in a nuanced and intelligent way. At the beginning of the book, we meet Leigh Chen Sanders, a half Asian, half white high school student and impassioned artist who is secretly in love with her best friend, Axel. When their relationship finally starts to shift and they have their first kiss, her mother commits suicide after a long struggle with depression. During her grief, Leigh begins to feel and intuitively know that this red bird who keeps appearing to her is her mother and that she must communicate with or help her. In an effort to understand her mother and her history more, she travels to Taiwan to meet her grandparents for the first time and to find the bird. The book integrates her discovery of her mother’s past, the evolution of her relationship with Axel, her family interactions and dynamics, and her present experience in Taiwan. We watch as Leigh attempts to reconcile and process (through colors in a synesthesic sorta way) all of the new information she is taking in.

The author’s ability to make the words feel like art was masterful and the multicultural family tale was beautifully woven. I deducted a star because I felt that some of the YA/high school scenes could have been largely eliminated or reduced in the story as I didn’t feel it served to further Leigh’s journey in any meaningful way. Still, it was very enjoyable to read about the complexities of bi- or multiracial identities and the difficulty at times of blending different cultures, all in an incredibly elegant way. 

My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout - 3 ⭑

My Name is Lucy Barton was somehow a layered tale that was able to occur within only a few hundred pages. The actual setting of the story is in a hospital room, where Lucy Barton lays while recovering from a minor operation. Because her daughters are too young and her husband dislikes hospitals, Lucy’s mother comes to stay with her at the hospital, despite not having spoken in many years following a difficult childhood in poverty. Though we initially witness simple and awkward interactions with Lucy and her mother, an understanding eventually forms between the two, which developed not only as a result of forced interaction after years of estrangement but also by the reflection of shared and individual experiences from the past. This story was interesting because it really covers a wide array of life experiences and how they’re shaped by the particular social climate (e.g. the AIDS epidemic). Moreover, it’s presented in a disjointed way that makes certain revelations throughout powerful. But all in all, the book was only okay for me. It was not earth-shattering and no aspect of this book will stay with me over the years, but it was short, well-written, and interesting.

The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec - 3.5 ⭑

When I initially read the synopsis of The Witch’s Heart and saw that it was about a witch in a reimagined Norse myth, I was hooked. My knowledge of Norse mythology admittedly comes predominantly from the Avengers franchise, but as we all know: 1) I love witches and 2) I love reimagined fairytales and myths. Unfortunately though, I was not personally as enamored by this story as so many others are.

The story starts with a witch who is reborn following being burned at the stake by Odin, though that is unfortunately all she really remembers about herself. She hides in a cave in the forest until she is one day found by Loki, the brother of Odin, who delivers her heart (literally) back to her. In her secluded world, Angrboda only interacts with Skadi, a local huntress and loyal friend, and Loki, who she begrudgingly starts to enjoy despite his penchant for trouble and pranks. When Angrboda and Loki finally open up to one another regarding their mutual affection, they end up having three children, each one more extraordinary and unusual than the last. However, Angrboda knows she must hide them from Odin due to her unique abilities and an ominous prophecy. As she tries to change fate, she has to prioritize where her love should be directed and remember and trust who she is.

Based solely on the premise, this book should have been AMAZING and a clear 5-star read from me. While I do think it depicted an interesting and nuanced slow transformation in Angrboda’s character, it was a bit too slow for my taste. I would get really interested, and then super bored for 100 pages, and then really interested, and so on and so forth. And after all of this buildup, I’m not sure the ending was quite satisfying enough (not the outcome per se, but more so in reference to the process). So even though it should have been right up my alley, I only thought it was fine (definitely not bad, but not a favorite for me either).

Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata - 3.5 ⭑

A simple story about a woman whose confusion regarding social interactions and how to function according to others’ social expectations has led her to be uniquely comfortable in her part-time job as a convenience store worker. Though she started working at a SmileMart convenient store in Tokyo when she was eighteen, she finds herself now thirty-six in the same position, at the same job, and at the same store. Though the story is told simply and in an almost stream of consciousness way, it serves as a commentary on balancing the expectations of culture, class, and sex. Towards the end, as we go on Keiko’s journey and hear everyone else dictate how they think she should behave and what she should logically want out of life, I left feeling as if I need to examine the extent of how willing we are to sacrifice individuality and happiness for other people’s expectations and pressure.

A quick read from a compelling narrator. I also highly recommend it for a book club - this was discussed in a book club I participate in, and the discussion that ensued was so thought-provoking and illuminating, which has made me reflect more and more positively on the book as a whole.

The Summer that Melted Everything by Tiffany McDaniel - 4.5 ⭑

“People always ask, Why does God allow suffering? Why does He allow a child to be beaten? A woman to cry? A holocaust to happen? A good dog to die painfully? Simple truth is, He wants to see for Himself what we’ll do. He’s stood up the candle, put the devil at the wick, and now He wants to see if we blow it out or let it burn down. God is suffering’s biggest spectator.”

— Tiffany McDaniel, "The Summer that Melted Everything"

Oh, wow. When I was trying to describe this book in my book club, I said that it was like the darkest version of To Kill A Mockingbird but in the social climate of the 1980s, which I still think is a fair description. The book is about the devil coming to a small town in Ohio in the summer of 1984 during a heatwave. The devil is a haunted 13-year old black boy, who is eerily wise beyond his years and cryptic, with scars of all kinds and a clearly tortured past. He befriends the town prosecutor’s son, Fielding, and the boys watch as the people in the town and in their family slowly madden during the heat. It’s as if everyone’s flaws are magnified, and because of the herd mentality of small towns along with the fear of the AIDS epidemic, lingering racism, and the need to explain tragedy, Fielding and Sal (the devil) try to handle seeing and rationalizing the worst things people do.

It took me a while to get into the book, but once I did, I was captivated and mortified at the same time. The events of the summer expose so many different facets of the 1980s American psyche and the storytelling was so intricate and well done. I don’t know - it’s quite hard to process this book because it was absolutely brutal, but so powerful. This is not an “enjoyable” read by any means, but it was expertly executed and would be excellent for book clubs or discussions. But make sure you buckle up and are prepared for darkness before you go on this ride.

American Royals by Katharine McGee - 4 ⭑

This was a super fun historical dystopian novel that imagines how the lives of modern day American royals would be had George Washington decided to make himself King rather than president. And I have no idea how that was never something I even remotely considered, but as I was reading, I was so enthralled by the idea of American royalty and how our current political system would translate to dukes and other members of the aristocracy and just generally how it could be practically executed. Further, the drama was fun and I really enjoyed getting to know the characters.

The story follows the romantic and political trials and tribulations of the next generation of Washingtons: Beatrice, the oldest and (thanks to a new law) next in line in succession, which would make her the first Queen of America, and her younger twin siblings, Samantha and Jefferson. And because this is a story of teenage royals, you know they all fall for forbidden people and we have to sit and wonder how it will all pan out. The story is told through the POVs of four main female characters, but the drama in each storyline overlaps constantly and I really couldn’t stop listening to the audiobook to find what was coming next. This not a 5 star book nor is it of the “highest literary quality," but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy the hell out of it and immediately try to find access to the sequel when I finished it. This is a great, light read that I would recommend after a heavy or depressing read - it will lift your spirits right up.

Majesty by Katharine McGee - 2 ⭑

Well, spoke too soon with my previous review on the first book of the American Royals series. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the second (and final?) installment of the series, but this went in a completely new and totally undesired direction. I felt like I was reading a book of entirely new characters that did. not. make. sense. And I certainly don’t expect tremendous emotional maturity and logical decision-making from teenage protagonists by any means, but this book was just not good. It feels all the more disappointing after how fun the first book was, but as I read, I kept waiting for everything to right itself…but it never did.

Majesty picks up where the first book left off - the Washingtons all have new and important roles to fill and are questioning the balance between duty to country and duty to self. But forget the Washingtons (and other characters) you met in the first book because they have all become robots who constantly make strange and illogical decisions (for the most part). It might just be better to just stop reading after the first book and letting yourself imagine the ending you want, but as the first book ends on a cliffhanger, I know that’s easier said than done. So now I sit here thinking whether I can even recommend the first book at all after acknowledging this dilemma. I don’t know. Unless the author announces a surprise third novel where she somehow undos all of the damage caused in the second book, I have to say I can’t recommend this series. Yet another example of an amazing first book somehow ruined by its sequel. Ugh, the devastation.

The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner - 3.5 ⭑

The Serpent King is about a group of three teenage friends and the vastly different circumstances they have and paths they will embark on during their senior year of high school. In some capacity, they are all just trying to “survive” in their own different ways. Dill Early, the son of a rattlesnake-handling, southern Pentecostal minister who was recently imprisoned for child pornography, is barely making ends meet. As he and his mother constantly work at low-paying jobs where people judge him for the actions of his father, he somehow tries to still create music, think about his future (which is at odds with his parents’ wishes), and somehow deal with the fact that his best friend, and secret crush Lydia, will move far away for college. Lydia conversely comes from an affluent and loving family - although she doesn’t “fit in” in high school, she has a successful fashion blog and wants to pursue this at NYU. Finally, Travis is the son of the “football star and prom queen,” except life has gotten them down and now he tries to evade his abusive father and read fantasy novels as his form of escape. While I was generally interested in these characters, I feel like I kept waiting for the story to happen. There are certainly major plot points, but there was no underlying cohesive story, which made the last 10% of the book feel rushed and like it covered so much time. Unfortunately, I can’t say I understand the hype with this book, but there were definitely some memorable parts.

My top 3 favorite new books read (sorry, Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, you are still excellent), were Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust, Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson, and The Summer that Melted Everything by Tiffany McDaniel. The last two are haunting and difficult to read, but they were deeply impactful and superbly written. The first book was so unexpected and different, especially in the fairytale/mythology retelling genre. It was a good month for books, but I imagine I’ll have less time to read in the next few months with the move.

Until next time,

Alexandra

Mother's Day

grandmother. mother. daughter. - i stand on the sacrifices of a million women before me thinking ‘what can i do to make this mountain taller so the women after me can see farther’ -legacy, Rupi Kaur

As I think about the blog posts I’m going to write, I always try to select a theme that is relevant to what is currently going on. And with Mother’s Day upon us, it could not be more apropos to have a blog about mothers, and more loosely, the women who raise and shape us. So with that said, Happy Mother’s Day to the women that have held my hands through the peaks and valleys in life, who have always embraced and encouraged me, and who continue to bestow upon me generations of knowledge and love. Also, Happy Mother’s Day to my new family from whom I have so much to learn - your love and guidance is undoubtedly the reason I have married a deeply kind and thoughtful man. And finally, Happy Mother’s Day to the next generation - watching the transformative nature of new motherhood in my sisters, Alyssa and Allison, has been profound, and I hope I can join your ranks (someday) with half as much grace. I know I already said finally, but also, Happy Mother’s Day to me - being a cat mom is basically the same as being a real mom so…yeah.

As the African proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and there were certainly many women in mine (re: I’m very needy). I’m extremely lucky to be super close with my mother. There is no one I would rather watch countless stupid youtube clips with, organize and color-code every document and nook of my house with, and learn from - there is something about being an ocean apart that has somehow strengthened our relationship even further. Thank you for talking to me 4-18 times a day still and for the shockingly insightful conversations we manage to occasionally have. Thank you for still teaching me how to function as an adult in the most basic of ways. Thank you for passing down fundamental pieces of you that constantly shape who I am becoming. But I know that, even though you are a legend, you learned from the women who raised and shaped you.

“The presence of a maternal grandma between the ages of 50 and 75 made a given grandchild 30 percent more likely to survive early childhood than a kid whose maternal grandmother was deceased. ”

— 2019 parsing of preindustrial Finland records, cited in NYT essay

In that light, I’d like to share an article that my mom sent me (she loves sending me hundreds of articles daily and then getting annoyed when I don’t immediately know which one she is referring to when we talk later). The article was a guest essay by Abigail Tucker, the author of “Mom Genes: Inside the New Science of Our Ancient Maternal Instinct,” which I have not yet read but is now on my “to-read” list. In it, Tucker argues that, “For even the boldest and most independent young mothers, the savviest path might lead back home.” This is because young mothers need the help of their mothers - the maternal grandmother plays a pivotal role in the development of future generations. Intuitively, this is not surprising, but it is interesting how much this phenomenon is corroborated in the scientific setting as well. I know that I benefited immensely from my Nani’s nurturing wisdom and my relationship with her now is one of the most defining and important relationships in my life. I also know that, especially with a pandemic, my mom has played an integral role in my nephew’s life. So all of this is to say that basically 1) this was a very interesting article, 2) we should all be grateful for the maternal support (which doesn’t necessarily need to just come from mothers - can come from aunts, godmothers, friends, etc.) we receive, and 3) I need to create a room to incentivize my mom living with me for several months when I finally have a child. 

It is not surprising that there are so many books that highlight the importance of maternal forces in our lives. Below, I have included ten powerful stories that examine what it means to be a mother and the profound impact of a mother’s presence (or absence). I’ve also included brief snippets (and links on Goodreads) to several other honorable mentions, many of which serve as a commentary on motherhood, are memoirs, or are compelling pieces of fiction. 

“I had read the baby books, of course, but could remember literally nothing but one fact: “babies are born without kneecaps.” What the hell was I supposed to do with that information?”

— Mindy Kaling

Nothing Like I Imagined - Mindy Kaling

In completely unsurprising news, I am a HUGE fan of Mindy Kaling and devour any book, show, or movie with her name on it (if you haven’t watched “Never Have I Ever” on Netflix or the movie “Late Night,” you are missing out). So when I saw this collection of essays on Amazon Prime (it’s an Amazon-exclusive title, by the way), I immediately downloaded it. While it has the Mindy charm that I have come to expect and love, there were certain essays that were particularly poignant. In “Help Is On the Way” and “Kind of Hindu,” Mindy ruminates over what it means to be a new mother, especially after losing her own, and “how Hindu” she wants to raise her own daughter. These essays illuminated who Mindy is as a woman, as an Indian woman, and as a mother. This is a short and powerful read that got 5 stars from me.

Room - Emma Donoghue

Many of you are already acquainted with Room as it was made into an Oscar-winning movie a few years back. It follows the lives of 5-year-old Jack and Ma, who live in Room. When Ma was a college student, she was abducted by a man referred to as “Old Nick.” He locked her into an armored shed of sorts in his backyard, where she has been for years. During this time, he impregnated her and she gave birth to Jack, whom she raises in a small room with the barest of essentials. When their situation becomes more and more precarious, they decide that they must risk their lives to escape. But whether they are in the room or outside desperately trying to adjust to their new surroundings and the psychological trauma, the story is about the powerful love between a mother and son and the lengths they’re willing to go to in order to survive. This was a great read, but it is one of those rare cases where the movie is as good or better than the book.

Magic Lessons - Alice Hoffman

“This is how you begin in this world. These are the lessons to be learned. Drink chamomile tea to calm the spirit. Feed a cold and starve a fever. Read as many books as you can. Always choose courage. Never watch another woman burn. Know that love is the only answer.”

— Alice Hoffman, Magic Lessons

For those of you who are as obsessed with the movie “Practical Magic” as I am, this is a must-read. Magic Lessons is the prequel to “Practical Magic” which finally informs us about how the curse on the Owens women began (basically, any man who comes to love an Owens woman will die). In the 1600s, a young Maria Owens falls in love with an American man who has come to rural England where she lives, seduces her, and promptly abandons her. Maria is not left completely alone, however, as she becomes pregnant with his child, a daughter named Faith. She decides to look for him in the United States, makes the harrowing journey overseas, and ends up in Salem, Massachusetts (need I say more?). The book follows the relationship between Maria and Faith, which is not always easy and peaceful, but proves that “there are none who can fight as fiercely as a mother and a daughter, and none who can forgive more completely.” I was shocked at how beautiful the storytelling was - Hoffman is a witch with her words and this was a 5 star read for me.

The Storyteller’s Secret - Sejal Badani

The Storyteller’s Secret is a stunning multigenerational drama about an Indian woman named Jaya who, in her grief over multiple miscarriages and a dying marriage, goes to India to learn about her mother’s family. Although her relationship with her mother is strained and difficult, Jaya needs to learn why her mother never speaks of her family. When she arrives, she is informed that her last living relative in India, her grandfather who treated her mother poorly, has died from the former servant of her grandmother (who died when her mother was a baby). Ravi proceeds to tell Jaya the story of her remarkable grandmother, Amisha, who wanted to learn and read at a time where that was not expected (or allowed, to some degree) of a married woman. The story jumps from Amisha’s past, to Jaya’s childhood and interactions with her mother, to Jaya’s present, as she deals with her grief and learns of her history. I was deeply moved by this breathtaking story that examined multiple mother-child relationships, the pain of not being able to be a mother, and the pain of not being able to be the woman you’re meant to be while you’re a mother.

Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets, and Advice for Living Your Best Life - Ali Wong

Dear Girls is a series of letters that comedian Ali Wong writes to her daughters about her childhood, her career, her identity, and how she ended up with their father (after several other interactions along the way). If you enjoyed her comedy special on Netflix, then you definitely know what to expect. Her irreverent and raunchy comedy is so painfully honest, and only at times relatable, but always highly enjoyable. While there is no shortage of laughter, there is also an undercurrent of vulnerability that makes it special - now will I tell my future daughters all of the private details of my late teens and twenties? Definitely not. But it was funny as hell to watch her do it. As a side note, I think this book comes across better as an audiobook - in book club, a friend mentioned that there were parts that were pretty graphic to read, but I wasn’t bothered because I listened to it in her voice and it was hilarious, so something to consider!

Where’d You Go, Bernadette? - Maria Semple

Where’d You Go, Bernadette? is a disjointed novel told through a disparate collection of receipts, emails, memos, etc. We follow the evolution of Bernadette Fox, who was once a young architectural phenom, but after some setbacks, has become less inspired and focuses her energy on being a family woman. She and her husband have a spunky and intelligent daughter, named Bee, who desperately wants to go to Antartica. Although they acquiesce, issues arise when Bernadette starts planning the trip and a series of events results in her sanity being questioned. And as all of these issues accumulate and get ready to overwhelm her and her family, Bernadette disappears out of nowhere and no one can find her. However, her daughter Bee knows she’s alright and is certain that she will find her because quirky or not, she loves her mother and she knows that her mother loves her. This was a very different and entertaining read and I even enjoyed the movie adaptation for the most part!

Little Women - Louisa May Alcott

I don’t feel like I need to go into too much detail on one of the greatest American classics, but I would be remiss to exclude Little Women from this list. On the surface, the story follows the four March sisters from childhood and into their lives as women. And while their interactions are endearing, and at times infuriating, they are always supported by their mother’s constant love and quiet guidance. Marmee (their mother) does not apply a “one-size fits all” parenting approach and keenly knows how to reach and connect with each sister, all of whom fundamentally differ from one another. As much as this is a story about sisters, it is also a story about girls learning how to become the women they want to be from a solid, loving mother. One of my favorite classics.

Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive - Stephanie Land

Maid is a gripping memoir following a young woman, Stephanie Land, who unexpectedly gets pregnant and is forced to do whatever it takes to provide for her daughter. Although she dreams of being a writer, she becomes a maid to make ends meet during the day and takes classes online for a college degree at night, all while taking care of her young daughter. Never able to save any money or get ahead, Land and her daughter bounce around several different sketchy living places and are only able to rely on each other. From a social point of view, this memoir is important because it shows 1) the incredible difficulty of being a single mother, 2) the near impossibility of augmenting oneself out of poverty, and 3) toxic interactions with other socioeconomic classes. But on a more personal level, Land does not imply that it is always fulfilling to be a mother and it is that raw honesty that is vital. It is a difficult read, but it does reveal an important aspect of motherhood.

Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics - Mirabai Starr

I am fairly hyperbolic when I describe books, but I really mean it when I say this is one of the best and most impactful books I have ever read. This book starts out outlining how we live in a world that has been dominated by masculine forces, but that there is a vital need for feminine influences. And “masculine" and “feminine” are not terms that are to be used interchangeably with “man and woman,” but rather each individual has qualities that can be described both ways. So while we are all individually a balance of masculine and feminine, so too are systems and society, and it is time for us to embrace more of the beautiful and sacred feminine. Mirabai Starr seamlessly weaves the journeys of feminine mystics, her own journey, and delves into how we can journey to find and embrace our own inner feminine. There really is so much to this book, but there is a particularly moving chapter on “Mothering as a Path of Awakening.” If you decide to read this because you’re interested in the chapter on mothering, great, but you will get so much more than you bargained for. Incredible and beautifully written.

“To be someone’s mother is to die again and again. Die to who you thought you were and who you hoped you would become. Die to your cherished notions of what a child of yours should look like, sound like, behave like. Die to your illusions of control. Control of your own emotions, control of your child’s experiences. And in proportion to all your deaths you will be blessed with endless resurrections. You will rise, radiant, from the flames of what you thought was the end of the world. And your child will rise, luminous, from the ashes of your errors.”

— Mirabai Starr, Wild Mercy

Like a Mother: A Feminist Journey Through the Science and Culture of Pregnancy - Angela Garbes

Even though I am not pregnant, I am getting to the phase of my life where I would like to become a mother and am preparing for it. When I came across this book, I was immediately interested because even now, at the beginning of my process, I have noticed how repressive recommendations are for pregnant women. When you’re pregnant, everyone feels like they have access to your body and that their unsolicited advice is necessary. Everyone judges every little action a woman takes and forget that she is, in fact, still an autonomous woman. This book provides realistic advice, integrating science and the real, lived, and varied experiences of pregnant women. As a scientist, I deeply appreciate the analysis, but it also feels like a pregnancy book that acknowledges the mother as much as the baby.

It was very difficult to limit the list because there are so many powerful stories about mothers, by mothers, and for mothers, so I decided to also include some honorable mentions:

• Hamnet - Maggie O’Farrell: I have already reviewed this book in the January Book Blog, and while it wasn’t my favorite, so many people fell in love with this historical fiction depicting Shakespeare’s wife and the all-consuming nature of being a mother.

• American Dirt - Jeanine Cummins: There are a lot of mixed feelings about whether it was appropriate for Cummins to write this story, with some saying that there were stereotypical portrayals of Mexicans that were opportunistic. I will leave that for you to decide, and even though I read it before I knew about the controversy, I would be lying if I said it wasn’t extremely entertaining. The story is about a Mexican mother and her young son trying desperately to escape Mexico because a cartel is out to kill them. We follow them as they do what it takes to stay under the radar and get across the border to the US - it was intense, scary, and exciting, but the one constant was the mother and son’s love and need for one another. Still, I feel a bit conflicted about it now and hope that this story is voiced more authentically in the future.

• Westering Women - Sandra Dallas: Westering Women is a story of a young woman named Maggie who answers an ad to travel west to California to "find a good husband.” However, she is carrying dangerous secrets and a daughter, which makes the 2,000 mile journey west even more harrowing for herself and the women she’s traveling with. But to what lengths would you go to protect yourself and your child?

“Our afternoons together taught me that there was no formula for motherhood. No single approach could be deemed right or wrong. This was useful to see. Regardless of who was living which way and why, every small child in that playroom was cherished and growing just fine.”

— Michelle Obama, Becoming

• Becoming - Michelle Obama: Becoming is a phenomenal memoir to read in general, and while it is extremely long, it is so apparent how intentional Michelle Obama is in her parenting. She talks about the sacrifices made as a working mom, how tough parental choices were made, and the strength she received by having her mother help her raise Malia and Sasha, particularly during the White House years.

• Where the Forest Meets the Stars - Glendy Vanderah: This was an unexpected sci-fi love (familial, mostly) story that follows a young girl, Ursa, who just shows up in rural Illinois one day claiming to be from the stars. Joanna, a research assistant who is recovering from her own mother’s death, reluctantly takes her in while she tries to figure out who her real parents are. Naturally, a strong bond forms between the two and we are left questioning what it really means to be a parent. Surprising and charming read.

• Stay with Me - Ayobami Adebayo: A powerful story about a woman in Nigeria, Yejide, who falls in love and marries a man named Akin, who has promised her a loving and monogamous relationship (polygamy was culturally accepted). However, when she is unable to have a child after years of trying, she goes to extreme lengths to have a child at whatever cost, particularly as a second wife has been introduced for the purpose of procreation. This story is haunting and powerful, but focuses more on the desperate desire to become a mother and the ensuing fallout. Excellent read.

• The Witch’s Heart - Genevieve Gornichec: A full review is coming for this book in the April Book Blog, and while this wasn’t my favorite book, Angrboda’s fervent desire to protect her (strange) children and her willingness to sacrifice everything to do so makes this a perfect Mother’s Day selection. Fans of fairytale or mythology retellings will like this as it is reimagined Norse mythology (e.g., Loki, Odin, etc.)!

• Little Fires Everywhere - Celeste Ng: This trendy book is a TV show, so I’m sure most of you have heard of this or have even read it at this point. But there are a wealth of relationships to examine in this story - the relationship of mother and child, how that changes depending on marital status, and the relationship of mother to mother. Journey into Shaker Heights and meet two very different families who initially connect, but become diametrically opposed on an adoption issue. Compelling and dramatic - a solid recipe for an entertaining read.

“Be a full person. Motherhood is a glorious gift, but do not define yourself solely by motherhood. Be a full person. Your child will benefit from that.”

— Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Dear Ijeawele

• Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: This book highlights the importance of “It takes a village to raise a child” - in Dear Ijeawele, a friend asks for advice on how to raise her child as a feminist, and this is the response. Adichie provides fifteen insightful suggestions in this short read, which highlights the importance in passing on core values as a part of motherhood.

“Mothers have martyred themselves in their children’s names since the beginning of time. We have lived as if she who disappears the most, loves the most. We have been conditioned to prove our love by slowly ceasing to exist. What a terrible burden for children to bear—to know that they are the reason their mother stopped living. What a terrible burden for our daughters to bear—to know that if they choose to become mothers, this will be their fate, too. Because if we show them that being a martyr is the highest form of love, that is what they will become. They will feel obligated to love as well as their mothers loved, after all. They will believe they have permission to live only as fully as their mothers allowed themselves to live.”

— Glennon Doyle, Untamed

• Untamed - Glennon Doyle: I feel like this book is on everyone’s radar - once you read it, you recommend it. And there’s definitely a reason for that. In her memoir, Glennon Doyle talks about how she was slowly dying while doing everything she was supposed to do - raising her children with a man she had married to for years. But when her marriage falls apart, she has to pick up the pieces, which allows her to redefine herself for herself for the first time ever. Although this process is scary at times, it is difficult not to question why women have these rigid expectations and who exactly they’re serving. Her insights on motherhood are not the entire scope of the memoir, but they are an important part, and this is just an excellent book for everyone in general.

• Girl, Woman, Other - Bernardine Evaristo: This is an incredible novel that has twelve different voices who are mostly black, British women. While some storylines overlap, others are entirely disparate. But we end up with stories from this beautiful and eclectic community of women, of mothers and daughters, that speak to their collective experience at large. A much deserved, award-winning novel.

• Yellow Wife - Sadeqa Johnson: The full review of this book is coming in the April Book Blog, but this is a heart-wrenching story of a young slave woman and her harrowing experience as the purchased wife of a slave-trader. While we endure the horrors of her life, we watch as her focus is entirely upon the well-being of her children, and never herself. A dark tale of maternal sacrifices.

• Pachinko - Min Jin Lee: Pachinko follows the aftermath of a young village girl, Sunja, who falls in love with a wealthy, married stranger. When he impregnates her, she has to figure out how to survive with her son, and the choices she makes have generational repercussions. 4-star read for me, so very good, but I know many people who love this novel.

• My Name is Lucy Barton - Elizabeth Strout: The full review of this book is coming in the April Book Blog, and while this was not my favorite read, the quiet reconciliation between Lucy Barton and her mother was definitely the highlight of the book for me. For many, this represents the ultimate mother-daughter book in terms of moving forward from a difficult past.

• With the Fire on High - Elizabeth Acevedo: A refreshing YA novel that follows a high school senior, Emoni Santiago, who became pregnant in her freshman year and is now raising a child (with the help of her abuela), finishing school, and trying to pursue her ultimate dream of becoming a chef. The book is really charming altogether and we see the difficulties of being a very young mother and also the tremendous support provided by many grandmothers.

• Born a Crime - Stories from a South African Childhood - Trevor Noah: I adore Trevor Noah, and his memoir is shocking, hilarious, and devastating all at the same time. While his life was certainly challenging at times in apartheid-era South Africa as a half-Xhosa, half-Swiss young man, his clear reverence for his mother and her sacrifices is heart-warming. This is one of my favorite memoirs and it transcends the typical comedian memoir so often seen.

There are so many recommendations provided here, but it’s because I clearly have a soft spot for stories that highlight how incredible mothers are.

I hope you all have a wonderful Mother’s Day :), but an extra special shoutout to mine ❤️

Until next time,

Alexandra

March Book Blog

At work, I got another paper published as a first author and presented the progress of my dissertation to colleagues in March. In my personal life (as seen above), I finished editing photos and creating my wedding album, celebrated my sisters' birthdays in spirit, and read, wrote, and spent as much time outdoors as possible.

I am not sure why, but it feels like March is always a difficult month for me. I don’t know if it’s because I’m so exasperated by the cold weather and being stuck inside, or if it is because the semester is winding down, or if some planet up there is intent on making me super anxious, but each March is always a bit tough to get through. Despite my “March retrograde,” I love sending birthday love to my big sister at the beginning of the month and now to my new sister-in-law at the end of the month. We also finally had some nice days and got to go soak in the sun at the park, but it is now back to rain every day and cold weather for the rest of April, so that was short-lived. Still, through the difficulty, I gained some clarity on what I want in the future, had some intimidating conversations, made some big decisions, and continued to read, write, and express myself through creative outlets in my time off (with my cats ready to be super helpful at every point). Sometimes the harder months force us to look inward and to recharge within from our own source of power.

In that light, it is interesting to look back and reflect on all of the books I read in March and to see this unintentional pattern of books form that was reflective of my work and my role as a woman in science, an area that I was particularly attuned to in March. On the science front, I read a book about sisters who introduced women to formal medical education, a book on Henrietta Lacks (the woman with “immortal” HeLa cells whose discovery led to an acceleration in medical discoveries and the development of many standard scientific and research practices), and a book about the lived consequences of being fat, which is particularly pertinent to the research I do on the metabolic consequences of weight loss. I also read a few different thrillers this month about family drama, marriage drama, and even political drama - this did not necessarily reflect any aspect of my personal life, but maybe it’s how I celebrate my sister, who I love watching or reading morbid thrillers with (“Snapped” sisters for life). The remaining books are from a variety of genres, including westerns, memoirs, comedies, fantasies, and historical fiction, so keep reading to find some new book inspiration. 

The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women and Women to Medicine by Janice P. Nimura - 3.5 ⭑

An area of my reading that I really wanted to explore this year was “women in science,” especially as I am nearing the end of my doctoral career. When I found this book about the two pioneering sisters who brought women to medicine, I thought this would be the ultimate addition to my 2021 reading list. And while I am happy that I read this book and learned about the immense struggles to have women formally recognized as medical practitioners (despite the fact that women have been delivering babies and have been in charge of daily remedies in virtually every culture for forever), I’m sad to say that I struggled to get through this book. It is no doubt an interesting subject, but the way in which it was told was fairly dry.

The book starts off with talking about the Blackwell family, and how in general they were an extremely progressive family who valued education and saw ending slavery as a moral imperative. One of the daughters, Elizabeth, wanted to study medicine formally, but was rejected by many different institutions for a long time. When finally presented with an opportunity, she excelled despite all odds. However, the idea of women in medicine was still not widely accepted and she had to claw her way through every minute advancement. Training all over Europe and eventually helping her younger sister Emily receive medical training, the Blackwell sisters left their legacy by not just receiving medical degrees as women, but by making sure that they would not be the last women to do so. They accomplished this by starting the New York Infirmary for Women and Children, which was the first hospital staffed solely by women, and by encouraging women along the way to apply for medical schools, despite the frequent rejections, until it was commonly accepted.

Very interesting women, but very dry storytelling. It read much more like a textbook biography rather than as a story with a cohesive narrative structure. Unless you really want to know about these women specifically, don’t expect a story like “The Radium Girls” or “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,” because this unfortunately was not in the same league for me.

Mediocre: The Dangerous Legacy of White Male America by Ijeoma Oluo - 5 ⭑

Ijeoma Oluo’s latest book "Mediocre: The Dpangerous Legacy of White Male America” is an insightful and nuanced examination of the systems that augment male power (particularly white men) at the expense of women and people of color. At first, I really thought this book was just going to be an addition to the “she woman man haters” book club where I was constantly saying “damn straight” the entire time I read it, and I certainly did say that a lot, but it is also so much more.

The book starts with a discussion of the evolution of the “Wild West” and the cowboy mentality, which questions the country’s foundation and moral character. It goes on to discuss white male political candidates and their rhetoric - there was a particularly compelling section on “Bernie bros” that I thought effectively illustrated the dependence on white male saviors across the political aisle. The book also tackles the issues but necessity of access to Ivy League education for the disenfranchised, the tumultuous history of America's need for black labor throughout US history (as slaves, then as factory workers, etc.), the negative situations upon which women advance in the workplace and the consequences of it, and the toxicity that has been brought forth from the beyond exaggerated idea of “welfare queens.” It ends with a riveting discussion of football, both in terms of how it is one of the few ways for black men to advance in society (in an exceptionally brutal way), yet without allowing them to have a voice or opinion.

When I picked up this book, I expected it to have more of a “Rage Becomes Her” (Soraya Chemaly) or “Good and Mad” (Rebecca Traister) vibe, both of which are absolutely superb, but it actually read more like a Malcolm Gladwell novel. Oluo seamlessly pulled several, varied examples from society and used it to cohesively form an argument that these systems exist and encourages us to promote those to whom the system does not explicitly benefit. It really is not an “all white men are bad” book and is instead extremely eye-opening and intelligently executed. I definitely highly recommend this book - I had my husband read the football chapter right after I was done reading it and he (as a white man) was as captivated as I was and eager to read the rest, so no one is off limits for this recommendation.

News of the World by Paulette Jiles - 4 ⭑

As a Nebraskan girl who grew up on “Little House on the Prairie” books and played “Oregon Trail” on her computer constantly, I was so excited to read a more complex book in the Wild West era that was not just posed as a cowboys vs. Indians battle.

The book is about an older man, Captain Jefferson Kyle Kid, who travels around Texas and gives public readings of the newspapers - it is so difficult to imagine a time where the news of the world isn’t readily accessible at our fingertips, so people were willing and excited to pay money to hear him tell about what was happening everywhere else. At one of his stops, he is offered money to deliver a young girl (Johanna) to her last remaining relatives in San Antonio. When she was a child, Kiowa raiders killed her entire family, but kept her and raised her, becoming the only family she truly knew. When the US army “rescues” her, she is essentially orphaned yet again - she cannot speak English, only knows the ways of the Kiowa, and is very resistant to being taken away by a random white man with whom she cannot communicate. Eventually, trust forms between young Johanna and Captain Jefferson, as horrifying and inspiring events occur throughout their journey. As their bond becomes stronger, and in realizing that each of them uniquely suits each others needs, does the Captain return her to a family she does not know or does he become her family?

I enjoyed this book immensely and found it to be a more complex story in this time frame. I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster when reading this - at times I was shocked and horrified by characters and events that transpired and at other times I was overjoyed and amazed at the slow-building relationship somehow managed with minimal communication. I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys this particular piece of history, for couples who like reading books together (I’m making Matt read this), and for those who like watching movie adaptations after reading the book. The book and movie are certainly different, but I really enjoyed the movie and felt like it captured the essence of the book (if not the exact details of the plot).

A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost - 4.5 ⭑

I have had really good luck with memoirs from previous SNL cast members before, and figured that even though I was not as familiar with Colin Jost as I was with Tina Fey or Amy Poehler, that it would still probably be an enjoyable audiobook. And it really, really was. Colin Jost, the head writer of SNL and cohost of Weekend Update, is so hilariously relatable and self-deprecating that I could not stop listening to this book. And unlike other comedian memoirs, which sometimes feel like disjointed essays built around funny punch lines, this really felt like a cohesive memoir with a clear timeline. I found myself gasping with laugher as he compared Speech to a sport (which, IT IS), discussed how his entire family lives on the same block on Staten Island, relived the trauma, albeit funny trauma, of attending Harvard, and explained how many times he has managed to lose control of his bowels. I was also intensely moved by his admiration for his mother, particularly as she worked tirelessly to help first responders in 9/11 (a seriously intense chapter) and fascinated by the inner workings of SNL. I did not have extremely high expectations for this book, but I actually think it is one of my favorite celebrity/comedian memoirs. I highly recommend this as an audiobook and am positive that you will find some of it (if not most or all of it) highly entertaining.

Trixie and Katya’s Guide to Modern Womanhood by Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova - 3.5 ⭑

One of the only amazing parts of being in lockdown for the last 5 months straight was that I found Ru Paul’s Drag Race. Growing up, I used to binge watch America’s Next Top Model because I loved the format of the show (even though Tyra was unbearable at times), and then I found this and realized THIS IS WHAT ANTM COULD HAVE BEEN BUT WILL NEVER BE BECAUSE THIS. IS. PERFECTION. But truly, I have fallen in love with everyone involved in the show, their tremendous courage and immense talent, and the hilarity that ensues in every single episode. So when I saw this as a nominee for Goodreads “Best Comedy” last year, it was a no-brainer that I should listen to it.

But alas, I was sort of disappointed. First of all, the title is actually apt, and in the first part of the book, they are really instructing you (sometimes as a parody, sometimes not) on how to be a woman. But for me, it tried too hard to be funny. I got so much more into the book when they were talking back and forth, or about their experiences on their show, or when they were making fun of Ginger Minj. With how funny all of their other content is on Youtube and everything, the book did not really capitalize on what makes this duo so enchanting. While this seemed like it would be better as an audiobook, which is how I experienced it, I missed out on all of the pictures in the book (which they bring up a lottttt), so I actually recommend this in the print version because people love the pictures. I really hope they release a book that’s a behind the scenes examination of each season of RPDR with interviews, etc. because that part of the book was amazing. Otherwise, it was unfortunately just okay, and I hold these queens to a much higher standard.

A Vow So Bold and Deadly by Brigid Kemmerer - 2.5 ⭑

It is difficult to adequately express my disappointment with how books 2 and 3 of this series went. The first book started off so strong and I remember finishing it in a few hours because I was immediately captivated by the characters, relationships, and the world Kemmerer created. The second book was alright, and I liked some of the new characters introduced, but the three main characters from the first book felt like completely different people. In the third book, I again feel like they were all different people. In an attempt to return these characters to their former book one-selves, I feel like the characters did not progress in terms of their development and the book consequently became more muddled and less intentional.

The book starts with an impending battle between Emberfall (Rhen and a disgruntled Harper) and Syhl Shallow (Grey and Lia Mara). Grey extended the 60-day notice of a battle if a truce could not be reached, or rather if his legitimate claim to the throne would not be observed, but Rhen's actions are beyond his full control and he experiences PTSD (and present-TSD). When he finally opens up to Harper about the reasoning behind his decision-making (e.g., the despicable treatment of Grey and Tycho in the previous book), she realizes the complexities of choices that were made and recognizes a link to her own personal and painful history, all of which culminates in her and Rhen once again aligning and trying to figure out how to protect Emberfall. While there ultimately is a standoff between Syhl Shallow and Emberfall, Grey and Rhen, there were so many superfluous aspects to the story that in no way contributed to the development of the plot (one of which almost ruined the entire book for me). The characters introduced in the second book became virtual side pieces and the choices made with Tycho and Lia Mara in particular were so disappointing and did not make sense based on their previous characterizations. Further, the buildup to the final standoff was tedious and it felt like it dragged out forever.

One of my biggest pet peeves is when an author takes an exceedingly long time to build up to the climax and then proceeds to not do it justice and hastily end the story. To say I had issues with what I felt was an abrupt ending is an understatement. Maybe we will end up with a fourth book, which of course, I would still read. But if not, I feel personally unsatisfied at the journeys of each of these characters, all of whom had so much potential, and disappointed by how many questions were left unanswered.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot - 5 ⭑

This book has been on my radar for awhile now, and as I wanted to read more “female in science/medicine” books this year, it seemed like the perfect addition to my 2021 reading goals list. And wow, I got way more than I bargained for. “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” manages to be a medical thriller, heartbreaking memoir, an insightful piece on racial injustice, and particularly on the atrocities committed to black people for the “advancement of medicine,” and a chronological textbook on scientific progress that is not written by the researchers themselves.

Rebecca Skloot starts the novel with the birth and life of Henrietta Lacks, a poor and beautiful Southern tobacco farmer who fiercely loved her children. Intuiting that something was wrong, she went to Johns Hopkins Hospital for medical treatment. Diagnosed with benign cervical cancer, she is treated with radiation and per standard procedures in the 1950s, has some of her cells taken for research purposes. Unbeknownst to her and her family, her cells prove to be “immortal” and constantly replicate. Because of this, countless medical miracles and treatments have been developed and the methodology of cell culture refined. However, while her cells were miraculous and lead to countless medical discoveries, her family remained uninformed of this fact and in poverty themselves, ironically unable to afford and receive basic medical care. Skloot tactfully jumps back and forth between the past and how the cells have contributed to science to present day, where she interacts with Henrietta’s last remaining daughter. This powerful dichotomy allows us to see the tremendous progress made as a result of her cells (HeLa cells), but also the personal cost to her family and the larger cost in general of medical progress at the expense of disenfranchised, but particularly, black people.

This is an important read for anyone and everyone who has benefited from any sort of medical treatment and diagnosis (aka all of us) - although Henrietta did not know her cells would be arguably one of the most (if not the most) important contribution towards medical progress, it is vitally important to know the people, faces, and families behind these discoveries, particularly as she was never given the opportunity to consent to it. I highly recommend this captivating book and urge readers to consider their own viewpoints on the ethics of research and medical practices.

His Truth Is Marching On: John Lewis and the Power of Hope by Jon Meacham - 4 ⭑

“From Seneca Falls to Selma to Stonewall, America has gradually expanded who’s included when the country speaks of ‘We the People.’”

— "His Truth is Marching On"

"His Truth Is Marching on: John Lewis and the Power of Hope” is an in depth biography of John Lewis and the spiritual drive that inspired his life’s work. Raised in Alabama, John Lewis found comfort and drive in the teachings of the Bible. He was a man who was inspired by the “costly grace” of Abraham Lincoln, Mohandas Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. He felt called to action from a young age to be a martyr through a nonviolent revolution. The book profiles his young life, his experiences through Freedom Rides, sit-ins at “whites-only” diners, and Selma. Described as a “modern day Saint,” Meacham paints a clear picture of the purity behind Lewis' motives and his utmost devotion to the equality of opportunity for black people in America.

While the writing is undeniably beautiful, reading as a blend of biography, adulation, and philosophy, it was a bit difficult to get through at times despite Lewis’ fascinating journey. I do think that Meacham captured the essence of Lewis’ character and ideology extremely well, but as a whole, it feels less accessible than other presidential (or similarly political) biographies. And maybe through fault that is all my own, I assumed that it would be a complete biography of Lewis’ life, rather than focusing only on the Civil Rights era. I was hoping to see him evolve over the course of his lifetime and to see how his experiences on the ground of Civil Rights informed all of the important legislation and political decisions he made. I do think that there is no better time to read about America’s greatest people and how the pivotal battles began for “who’s included when the country speaks of ‘We the People,’” but you need to be deeply invested in John Lewis’s Civil Rights work, non-violent revolutions, and/or American political philosophy to really enjoy this book.

What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat by Aubrey Gordon - 5 ⭑

Aubrey Gordon’s “What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat” is a scathing examination of the systemic bias against people living with obesity. And this is something I see daily in my field - I am nearing the end of my doctorate in Nutrition and Health Sciences, with extensive coursework in exercise physiology as well, and have noticed multiple times the antipathy experts in this field have regarding people with obesity despite our knowledge on the genetic components of obesity and the difficulties of sustaining weight loss. My dissertation work focuses on the metabolic and behavioral response to weight loss, or essentially, how our body compensates in response to weight loss and in turn fights it by reducing total daily energy expenditure. As a result, much of the literature Gordon refers to is literature that I am well acquainted with, and though there are a few studies she refers to whose results have been questioned, her analysis is by and large excellent and well-explained.

Further, the personal insight she provides on being a fat person (she refers to herself as as a fat person objectively, reiterating that non-fat people associate shame with that term) is harrowing and illuminating. From airlines to clothing manufacturers to issues with receiving medical care to RANDOM PEOPLE on the street thinking they have every right to offer weight loss advice or shame a fat person, the ways in which we have stigmatized fat to always equal unhealthy is blatantly false and dangerous. Of course there are metabolic complications that can often, but not always, occur with obesity. Yes, obesity increases your risk for developing a plethora of non-communicable diseases, but so does smoking, sedentary activities, alcohol, drug use, etc. The list goes on and on, yet as a society we do not ostracize individuals who have a job that necessitates sitting all day like we do individuals with obesity, especially when considering that again, metabolically healthy and obesity are not antithetical states and that being obese is not “a matter of laziness” and a change in lifestyle choices. I think this is a vitally important book for literally anyone to read, but especially medical and health professionals. It is truly appalling to me that people who study the metabolic consequences of and contributors to obesity could be so deeply prejudiced, but insightful books like this can open our eyes to the problems so that we can finally remedy them.

When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O’Neal - 4 ⭑

“When We Believed in Mermaids” is an entertaining and quick mystery, the suspense of which did not trigger my anxiety in anyway, so thank you for that Barbara O’Neal. The story follows two sisters: Kit is an ER doctor in Santa Cruz who is still reeling from the tragic death of her sister, Josie. However, when Kit and her mom see a woman on the news in New Zealand who looks exactly like Josie, Kit’s curiosity is piqued and she decides to go to New Zealand to look for her.

The novel bounces back and forth between their childhood and the tragic losses they experienced to their present day lives. The sisters have always been fundamentally different people, but have always had a deep love for each other, good Italian food, surfing, and their haunted, pseudo-big brother, Dylan. Josie felt it was utterly necessary to start completely new, needing to run away from her past in its entirety. Still, she has felt a deep hole in her life from the unresolved trauma and Kit has felt empty without her sister. Kit knows she must go look for her sister, but along the way, finds herself (or at least pieces of herself) in the process.

The book does a stellar job unfolding pieces as you are somewhat ready to deal with them, but it certainly doesn’t paint any of their past in an idyllic and picturesque way. At first, I really questioned the motives of Josie in particular (who renames herself), but as their pasts unfold, my heart was in pieces and I was desperate for the sisters to reconnect and heal. I was certainly surprised at many points throughout the book, but certain aspects were highly predictable, if not difficult to believe. But still, we as readers are taken on a physical and emotional journey and I love a novel about sisters AND a novel that make me want to travel. This book hit so many right spots for me and I think it would be a great vacation read - it’s also on Prime reading on Amazon, so download it for free if you have access!

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn - 2 ⭑ (as seen on the previous For Fans of Bridgerton Blog)

Okay, nope. This book definitely did not do it for me and I absolutely LOVED the series on Netflix. But this book was really nothing like the series. First of all, the book only focuses on Daphne and Simon, who are honestly the least compelling storyline of the series after the 3rd or 4th episode. And in the series, they had so much chemistry (though admittedly, how could you not with Regé-Jene Page - woooow), but in the book the relationship developed so quickly and not sufficiently in my opinion. Second of all, I was not perturbed by “the scene” in the series, but I was shocked by the scene in the book. It was absolutely appalling and disgusting. I am so confused as to how Queen Shonda decided this book should be adapted for the screen, and while I am SO happy that she did, I was extremely disappointed by the original book which makes me now have conflicting feelings on how the series could possibly continue in a non-cringey way. I don’t know. It was definitely a quick and easy read, and I’m going to attempt to read the rest of the novels because I’m curious to see if there are any redeemable storylines, but this one was really bad. I can’t think of a single person I would recommend this to because it is triggering and frankly dangerous in its implications of what is acceptable. Ugh. Yuck.

The Cousins by Karen M. McManus - 3.5 ⭑

“The Cousins” is a YA novel about three cousins who are mysteriously summoned to work at their grandmother’s resort from the summer, despite the fact that their parents had been unceremoniously disinherited years earlier. The cousins, Milly, Aubrey, and Jonah, have never met each other, but are all deeply curious as to the secrecy that surrounds their parents’ childhoods and why their grandmother wants nothing to do with them.

While I found the book enjoyable, there were a few issues that lowered its overall rating. 1) There is a relationship that develops in the book that is theoretically kosher, but still grossed me out despite knowing the context. 2) The backstories of the parents are told only through one of the sibling’s perspectives, which is a really strange literary choice and made the characters more unidimensional than they needed to be. 3) All of the excitement in the ending happens way too quickly for the buildup. The reveal is done within 1-2 chapters, which was so disappointing as a reader. But still, the book was altogether enjoyable and I don’t feel like it was a waste of my time by any means. I could imagine myself enjoying this much more as a high school student, but as an adult (questionable) who enjoys well thought-out and tricky mysteries, this did not particularly float my boat.

The Opium Prince by Jasmine Aimaq - 4 ⭑

The premise of Jasmine Aimaq’s “The Opium Prince” immediately interested me as a woman whose childhood felt divided by 9/11, insofar as it felt like it burst the idyllic 90s bubble that was previously enjoyed (at least from a child’s perspectives). But even so, Afghanistan (and the Middle East in general) has always been a mystery to me - everything that I had learned about Afghanistan involved the terrorist attacks of 9/11. While I vaguely knew of the removal of the Soviet Union’s forces in the early 90s, I really had no idea about America’s previous engagement in Afghanistan, especially with respect to the Soviet-Afghan War. So when I saw a book that was about a half-American, half-Afghan man living in Kabul in the 1970s, in the “lead-up” time to the Soviet invasion, I thought it would be an interesting and more exciting way to gain more perspective on this time in history.

The book starts with Daniel, the aforementioned American, who is driving with his wife for their anniversary trip when he runs and kills a young Kochi (nomadic Afghan people) girl named Telaya. As he reels from the tragedy and tries to make amends for it with her family, he is hustled by an opium khan, which is particularly problematic as Daniel’s job is the head of a US foreign aid agency that seeks to eradicate opium and replace it with other crops. As the story unfolds, Daniel is haunted by images of Telaya, hearing her voice and noticing the subtle shifts occurring in Kabul around him while simultaneously debating on whether or not to adhere to the khan’s threats. Further, relations with his wife are strained and he has to navigate an increasingly complex social circle, which also contains communist sympathizers. As the series of events seems to spiral out of control, starting with the death of Telaya, it is difficult to ascertain whether the final outcome could have been avoided or prevented in any way or if it was all destined.

Blending Daniel’s history with his current problems and interspersing sections of the khan’s journey, Aimaq weaves a complex yet utterly compelling tale of one man’s quest to do what’s right as an Afghan, as an American, as a husband, and as a friend. There are some mixed reviews, but I really enjoyed this book and am eagerly awaiting to discuss it with others who read it. I look forward to reading Aimaq’s work in the future.

Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris - 4.5 ⭑

Alright, I don’t know why so many of my friends and I are fascinated by mystery/thriller novels where a woman’s life is in peril. Is it because I watched “Are you afraid of the dark?” every day after school, which eventually became “Snapped?” Probably. But unfortunately, so many of these thriller books leave me feeling so unsatisfied and it is difficult to find one that keeps me captivated the entire way through or that isn’t immediately predictable. And maybe that’s why “Behind Closed Doors” by B.A. Paris was so successful in my opinion. The threat is introduced immediately - we don’t have to wait until we get 3/4 of the way done with the book before we can identify the villain. We know from the onset, but that does not make it any less terrifying.

The book starts off at a dinner party hosted by Jack and Grace, an endearing couple on the surface. The pair married fairly quickly as Jack, a handsome and successful “white knight” type swept Grace off her feet, a very normal woman in her 30s that comes as a package deal with her sister who has Down syndrome. While it all seems idyllic and destined in a sense, everything shifts dramatically after they get married. The book jumps back and forth from present day to past events in a disjointed manner that effectively builds a cohesive narrative demonstrating how the situation becomes more and more dire (and how it could have happened in the first place). As I listened to the story, I found myself begging for any brief ray of sunshine and kept plotting in my head what I would do in the situation but would later just find out how what I planned would not have worked. There were some holes in the story for me, but with that said, I finished the entire audiobook in one day because I NEEDED to know the ending. I love when books have me so hooked that all of my other responsibilities (like..my job and husband I guess) get the backseat. I did deduct a half star because I thought the ending was a bit abrupt for the entire journey we went on - and I still desperately want to know more. But damn, good book. Good thriller.

---

My top 3 favorite books of the month were definitely Mediocre by Ijeoma Oluo, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, and What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat by Aubrey Gordon, but I think it is because I found these books to be extremely intellectually stimulating and geared towards my work (as a career and my personal creative outlets). From an entertainment perspective, I really enjoyed Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris, The Opium Prince by Jasmine Aimaq, and When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O’Neal, which were all mysteries and thrillers.

Until next time,

Alexandra 

For Fans of Bridgerton

Yesterday the world was informed that Regé-Jean Page will not be returning to Bridgerton next season in his role as Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, and as Buzzfeed news so eloquently stated, “Your grace, we are not OK.” But in all seriousness, let us not pretend that the number one reason we fell in love with the show was for the plot. Many people had told me that I need to watch Bridgerton, but based off the premise of the show alone, I was not immediately enticed despite my love for Shonda Rimes. My mother raised me on proper British dramas (thank you very much) and I did not think that this could live up to the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice in any way. For the record, nothing will ever hold a candle to that 5-hour masterpiece, but I now understand my mother’s feelings for Colin Firth as I now have them for Regé-Jean Page. So all of this is to say that after binge-watching Bridgerton twice already, with each time having happened within one day, I must admit that I loved it for the following reasons (in this specific order):

I MEAN LOOK AT HIM.

1. Simon Basset - Let me be clear, it is not the character that I fell for, but rather how Regé-Jean Page played him. I know that Simon endured a particularly traumatic childhood, the outcome of which obviously affects him through adulthood, but looking at him objectively as a character, he is sort of “meh” personality-wise when compared to the Bridgerton boys (Benedict and Colin, in particular). However, it is the smoldering intensity that Page brought to the character that made me say, “Feminist inclinations be damned! I’m hooked solely on looks!”

2. A Black Queen - Much to my surprise, the racial element capitalized upon in the show was not in the book whatsoever, so this must be attributed to Shonda’s genius. I found this interpretation of Regency England so refreshing and interesting. It opened up a whole new realm of possibilities and I loved seeing different cultures represented on the show (we get an Indian woman next season as the love interest, which will be particularly interesting because of the British colonization of India). I know this is a contentious point for some because it’s “not historically accurate,” but I could not care less about historical accuracy (especially in this type of work) and loved this direction. And for the record, there is compelling evidence that Queen Charlotte was biracial and of African descent. I really hope we get more of the Queen’s story in future seasons because to me, it appeared that racial integration was part of the plot itself (i.e., the King married a black Queen and through this, more black people were augmented in society) and not just as a casting choice. Regardless of the motives, I loved the decision and think it added such an interesting dynamic to the show. 

3. All of the side characters - I don’t know if it’s just me, but I was so much more interested in all the side drama happening in Bridgerton, especially after episode 3 and 4. I got bored of Simon and Daphne and loved the scenes with Benedict, Colin, the Featheringtons, and especially, Eloise. Again, these characters had virtually no role in the first book (The Duke and I), which really surprised me. 

4. Classical music adaptations of modern songs - I have always been a HUGE fan of Vitamin String Quartet and any classical interpretation of modern songs. I listen almost exclusively to these classic interpretations when I’m working and studying, so I loved that this was incorporated into the show. It was such a subtle and nuanced way of allowing modern audiences to connect to these characters almost subconsciously. I mean…I was living for the interpretations of “thank u, next” and “WAP.” I actually just listen to the Bridgerton soundtrack when I work now, so WELL DONE YET AGAIN SHONDA.

Literally can I just like be in a romance novel already? I just..

Okay so clearly I really enjoyed Bridgerton and think about it too frequently. When I was done with the season, I entered a state of despair of not wanting to wait another year and needing to know what happened to other characters. So naturally, I started reading the book the show was based off of, The Duke and I by Julia Quinn, which is followed by 7 more books following the remaining Bridgerton siblings. I had high expectations because the show was so great, but I was really disappointed in the book itself (see review below). So to prevent you from feeling this same level of disappointment while still satiating your mad desire for British romance, here is a list of other, better reads to satisfy your need for more Bridgerton.

My Goodreads review for The Duke and I by Julia Quinn 

Overall Rating 2 ⭑ (I just can’t give a 1 ⭑ review because it takes SO much work to write a book, but this has to be the closest I’ve ever been to it)

Okay, nope. This book definitely did not do it for me and I absolutely LOVED the series on Netflix. But this book was really nothing like the series. First of all, the book only focuses on Daphne and Simon, who are honestly the least compelling storyline of the series after the 3rd or 4th episode. And in the series, they had so much chemistry (though admittedly, how could you not with Regé-Jene Page - woooow), but in the book the relationship developed so quickly and not sufficiently in my opinion. Second of all, I was not perturbed by “the scene” in the series, but I was shocked by the scene in the book. It was absolutely appalling and disgusting. I am so confused as to how Queen Shonda decided this book should be adapted for the screen, and while I am SO happy that she did, I was extremely disappointed by the original book which makes me now have conflicting feelings on how the series could possibly continue in a non-cringey way. I don’t know. It was definitely a quick and easy read, and I’m going to attempt to read the rest of the novels because I’m curious to see if there are any redeemable storylines, but this one was really bad. I can’t think of a single person I would recommend this to because it is triggering and frankly dangerous in its implications of what is acceptable. Ugh. Yuck. 

Books to ease the longing for Bridgerton season 2 (& Regé-Jean Page):

A League of Extraordinary Women series by Evie Dunmore

I reviewed A Rogue of One’s Own (the second book) of this series in February, stating that it “is one of the better romantic series I have read in awhile and…the perfect antidote for my longing for another season of Bridgerton.” I further rant about books in the romance genre because “it has become exceedingly difficult to find relationships in which the power dynamic doesn’t make me gag. It feels like new romance books are either antiquated and promoting toxic masculinity stereotypes or conversely, they are almost pedantic in how much they try to emphasize that the protagonist really is a feminist and then play her as a stereotypical man-resenting feminist archetype.” This dichotomy occurs SO often in the romance genre that nearly every romance book I’ve read in the last 5 years could fit into one of these categories. BUT, this series is not quite so polarizing in that sense and is highly entertaining. It is by no means perfect, but it focuses on the stories of women who are fighting for women’s suffrage in Britain, and how eventually, specific men find ways to break down their walls and embrace who they are individually as women and what they stand for. Thus far, the first two books were fun and easy to read fairly quickly, and the third is supposed to come out in September, but has some great reviews already. This is definitely the number one recommendation I would make for those missing Bridgerton.

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”

— Charlotte Brontë, "Jane Eyre"

The Classics

Look, there is a reason these are considered “classics” and why people have been obsessed with Jane Austen and the Brontë sisters, even as time passes and society evolves. There are some people who adore the classics and read them exclusively, and I am DEFINITELY not among them, but I do love these four books. The women characters are so interesting and the writing was so progressive for its time. Even though I read it in high school, one of my favorite quotes of all time is still from Jane Eyre, so do yourself a favor and savor the OG classics as well.

The Lady Janies series by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows

The books of The Lady Janies series are really fun, strange, and silly historically-based comedies. They are highly entertaining, yet illusory, blurring the lines of reality or traditional stories with what feels like science fiction almost. They take place around actual events in history, but they modify and bend them for comedy, entertainment, and for the sake of the plot. I really enjoyed the first book about the “nine-days queen” Lady Jane Grey, but enjoyed the second book slightly less, which was about the Brontës and Jane Eyre. Still, as in Bridgerton, I really enjoyed how they “bend” historical events and offer almost an alternative reality in a way (a revisionist history of sorts). Some may read this and be entirely confused, so I must strongly state that you have to be in the mood for these books and completely open-minded. Also, there’s a third book in this series, but I haven’t got to it yet (and it’s Calamity Jane, so no longer British).

Austenland by Shannon Hale

Alright, this is by no means “high quality literature” at all, but it is fun enough and a quick read, especially if you find yourself strangely obsessed with Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy (cough MOM cough). The book is about a thirty-something year old woman who is enamored with the male characters she reads about in Regency England, to a point where it affects her love life. She receives a gift to go to an English resort that specifically caters to wealthy, Austen-obsessed women (LOL), which she hopes will serve as her last hurrah to her fandom. In this resort, they dress up in the traditional gowns, attend balls, and interact with other guests and actors that make the experience real. Again, this isn’t an intellectual read, but it made me laugh a few times and there is a movie based off it, so it could be a nice read-watch pairing.

Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld

Eligible is a modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, which takes the characters we know and love (and hate) and turns them into people we all know: Jane is a yoga instructor, Liz is a writer for a magazine, Mary is a perpetual student receiving online masters degrees, and Kitty and Lydia are hooked on CrossFit workouts and fad diets. The plot follows in the same way as Pride and Prejudice obviously, with Mrs. Bennet trying to marry off the daughters and the Bennet family struggling with impending financial ruin. Jane’s interest (Mr. Bingley) was recently on a reality television love show, like The Bachelor, which adds a fun, dramatic element to the story. I personally love this author, but was slightly disappointed in the execution of this novel. Still, it is a perfect read for Bridgerton fans and it will certainly make you laugh out loud from time to time.

Side note: Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev is an Indian remake of Pride and Prejudice, but I’ll discuss it more in a further blog (but spoiler alert: I loved it and thought it was a super excellent adaptation). Basically, expect the Pride and Prejudice storyline, but add Indian family drama, Indian food, and ROLE REVERSALS. Loved it.

The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

This book is for fans of modern-day British romance, i.e., the royals. Technically, there are two books, but I would not recommend the second book. The first book is left on a bit of a cliffhanger, but do yourself a favor and just imagine your own ending. The Royal We is about an American girl, Rebecca Porter, who steps out of her comfort zone and attends university at Oxford, and conveniently, lives down the hall from the future King of England, Prince Nicholas. The book follows the highs and lows of their romance, the secrecy that is needed, and the politics of dating a royal. In light of recent events with the royals, it may also satisfy the additional “royals” obsession many of us have (though I’m feeling more and more bad about it as I learn about Diana and Meghan). This feels reminiscent of Kate and William’s story in a way (if Kate were American), but it is long and at times unsatisfying. But let’s be honest, I binge-read it so clearly it worked for me.

Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes

This is obviously not a British romance, but after witnessing the genius changes made to the show based off an otherwise bad novel with Bridgerton, I would be remiss not to encourage you to read (or listen to) Shonda Rhimes’ memoir on her “Year of Yes.” The book talks about how she balances allll of her many shows, her three children, and her public life. I left even more impressed with her immense talent and ability to “do it all.” If you enjoy any of Shonda’s shows as much as I do, you should definitely give this a read.

My personal hot Duke of Hastings (Nebraska) in Lederhosen, but close enough for me

So hopefully, reading some of these books will tide you over until we get another season of Bridgerton. I for one will remain devastated at the departure of Simon Basset, but am exceedingly lucky to have my own Duke of Hastings (Hastings, Nebraska) that I can stare at lovingly all day, even though he doesn’t love when I refer to him as the Duke of Hastings. 😂

Until Next Time,

Lady Alexandra

February Book Blog

Husband’s homemade (gluten free) yellow cake - his birthday is Valentine’s Day so it kills romance in our house. He did get me flowers, but I was instructed to share them with Luna. In fairness, he was recovering from the Chiefs loss in the Super Bowl, so I let it slide.

I’m slowly but surely getting caught up on writing my reviews and on pace to read at least 80 books this year (my personal Goodreads goal). Typically, I read a lot of books in the romance genre in February, and while there certainly are a number of romance books in this blog, they were not the highlights of this month’s reading haul. Weirdly enough, the books that impacted me the most were books that focused more on self-love and taking the time and space to discover yourself. And frankly, this should be the base upon which romantic love can be built - in order to truly love someone else, you have to love yourself first. So while there are some typical romance recommendations on this list and while all February book lists feature the “best couples” in literature, I find the memoirs and self-love books to be an important first step and an area that should be focused on more in this month as well. There is an abundance of self-help and spiritual books available, and while I have personally benefited from many of them, I do think it is refreshing to read memoirs or fiction about other people’s journeys because they often feel less preachy. 

To be completely transparent, I am a total sucker for a good romance - these are the books that I find easiest to binge and one of my next blogs will be a “For fans of Bridgerton who can’t wait another year for the next season” blog, because I clearly fall in this category myself. But I think it’s important to think about other areas of love in our lives and how fulfilling they can be. So without further ado, here are the reviews for the books read in February: 

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig - 5⭑

“We only need to be one person.
We only need to feel one existence.
We don’t have to do everything in order to be everything, because we are already infinite. While we are alive we always contain a future of multifarious possibility.”

— Matt Haig, The Midnight Library

I do not find it at all surprising that this book won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fiction. While I do think that the general theme of a protagonist getting to live different realities and divergent paths has definitely been previously explored, this novel somehow manages to be uniquely human and relatable while simultaneously having deep philosophical crumbles throughout. The book starts with Nora, a 35 year old woman, who has a magnificently bad day, the culmination of events making her question each life decision she has made that has led her to this precise point and how different decisions may have had better outcomes. Crippled by her own self-doubt and depression, she gets the opportunity to go to her own “midnight library,” which is like the holding cell from which her parallel universes depart. Nora, with the help of a librarian she bonded with as a child, can go down different life paths and experience her own alternative realities by wishing to go to a time where she regrets her choices. In this quest for what really makes her feel like herself, she explores several different realities, looking at what would have happened had she not had her big or even small regrets. At first, I was getting real “Pagemaster” vibes when I read about a person going to a library and getting to live several different realities or experiences, but this novel was so nuanced and beautifully written. I feel like a lot of books that fall in this theme try to be so grandiose in their overall message to be inspiring, but this book left so many subtle notes throughout and her evolution actually made sense and was revealed so effectively to the readers. Clearly, I am not the only one who was surprisingly moved by this tale, and while I think it is highly relatable for many women in particular, it is a theme that is transcendent in nature. Any one who enjoys thoughtful fiction will certainly enjoy this.

The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan - 3 ⭑

This book was available on Prime Reading and had an interesting enough premise, so I decided to give it a chance. While parts of the story were certainly captivating, and while some characters were definitely interesting, I had a really difficult time getting into the novel and would have to force myself to read chapters of it every now and then until it finally took off in the last 1/5 or so of the novel. The book follows the life work of an old man, Anthony Peardew, who himself is the keeper of lost things. After losing something precious of his fiancé, she dies unceremoniously on the same day and leaves Anthony miserable in his loss and pining for the lost item, which he obviously sees as symbolic of her death. To compensate, he picks up lost items from people and writes stories about the objects, with the hopes of ultimately returning them to their owners one day in the off chance that they felt as strong of an attachment to their lost item as he did. As he gets older and nears the end of his life, he hires Laura, who helps take care of him and is dealing with her own personal issues. When he dies, he leaves her his house and the task of returning the lost things to her owner. With the assistance of her neighbor Sunshine, who has been alienated by her peers due to her Down syndrome, yet who possesses an uncanny ability to know the true stories of the objects, and the charming gardener Freddy, they create a website in hopes of reuniting people with their lost items and ultimately Anthony and his late fiancé in the far beyond. While this is definitely an original and creative story, there are so many stories interwoven throughout and randomly that explained the origins of the objects, that it was so difficult not to get lost. There are also two main stories discussed that are completely separate and the relevance extremely confusing until the very end. The ending and the concept were certainly interesting, but I can’t say that the disjointed buildup was really worth it for me personally.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab - 4 ⭑

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is an interesting mix of fantasy, historical fiction, and romance in a plot commonly seen in many different manifestations. Addie LaRue is a young girl in the 1700s in France who is being forced into a marriage by her parents before she feels she has really gotten the opportunity to live. In her desperation, she makes a deal with a dark spirit to live forever, but in exchange, she has to surrender her soul to this spirit when she is ready to be done living and she is instantly forgotten by everyone she meets. Essentially, she is unable to leave a legacy in the world, despite living through so many momentous occasions, and people cannot remember her name, her face, nor can she be photographed. While she certainly is living life, which was her wish, she experiences some of the darkest offerings of humanity, deep loneliness, and is provoked and seduced by her dark spirit. One day, she goes into a bookstore to steal a book, but when she returns the next day, the bookstore worker, Henry, remembers her. For the first time in 300 years, she can form an actual lasting connection with someone, but she does not know why. How long will the spirit allow this to happen? Why is he the only person that can remember her? Ultimately, this is an interesting tale, and there are by no means rose-colored glasses used to explain her experiences throughout history, which was much appreciated. But I never made it to the point of LOVING this book and needing to know what happened. I didn’t find the bookstore worker particularly appealing and it was difficult for me to get invested in the progression of the story when he was involved. I was so confused by whether I was rooting for the intended and seemingly logical path. However, even with that said, this book was very different than any other iteration of this “Little Mermaid” plot-type (i.e., giving up your family and everything you know rather hastily). I personally did not enjoy the disjointed chronology and wasn’t captivated throughout the entire novel, but I did love the ending, which I thought was fairly polarizing. Still, people really love this book, and the interesting blend of genres could make it appealing to a large audience.

A Rogue of One’s Own by Evie Dunmore - 3.5 ⭑

“I understand how being pleasant can keep the peace, but how will it win a war?”

— Evie Dunmore, A Rogue of One's Own

On Goodreads, I am going to round this up to 4 stars because I definitely think this is one of the better romantic series I have read in awhile and also because it was the perfect antidote for my longing for another season of Bridgerton. I am a fan of the romance genre, but it has become exceedingly difficult to find relationships in which the power dynamic doesn’t make me gag. It feels like new romance books are either antiquated and promoting toxic masculinity stereotypes or conversely, they are almost pedantic in how much they try to emphasize that the protagonist really is a feminist and then play her as a stereotypical man-resenting feminist archetype. I think this problem is especially apparent in period pieces, particularly in the Jane Austen/suffragist era. However, while this book flirts with the latter approach, it was still highly entertaining and the romance between the characters was sweet and slow-developing. In this second book of the “A League of Extraordinary Women” series, Lady Lucie is wrapping up a deal to purchase a publishing house with the goal of finally publishing research on the true disgruntled feelings of married wives. This research, which has been thoroughly collected and organized for years, will hopefully prompt Parliament to equip married women with more rights, and ultimately and hopefully, with the right to vote as well. As the suffragists finally gain access to the publishing house, another person buys half the shares, which threatens to ruin their plan, and this person is no other than Tristan Ballentine, the bad boy, second son of a tyrant nobleman who she grew up with. Annoyed by his arrogance and good looks, and then astonished by his surprising talent in poetry, Lucie has to figure out how to use his childhood crush on her to her benefit in getting sole ownership of the publishing house. But because this is a romantic comedy, feelings and drama happen. There were certainly points that were difficult to believe, and some of the characters were just frustrating rather than being developed or believable, but I enjoyed the progression of the novel much more than I anticipated and highly recommend it for people missing Bridgerton as much as I do.

Instant Karma by Marissa Meyer - 3 ⭑

I have read almost everything Marissa Meyer has written, having been hooked after reading “The Lunar Chronicles,” “Heartless,” and even the “Renegades” series. I was very intrigued at the prospect of a standalone novel, because one of Meyer’s strengths is in creating compelling characters who develop thoughtfully throughout several books. And maybe that was one of my issues with this book - I certainly enjoyed the characters in the book, but I never became emotionally invested. This book is about a high school, type A girl named Prudence who takes an analytical and business-minded approach to a school project, in which she is paired with Quint Erickson, who is her antithesis in every way. Seemingly apathetic and effortlessly popular, he shows up late to their final presentation on ecotourism and approaches the project in a very different way from Prudence. This discord leads them to get a bad grade, which infuriates Prudence, prompting her to convince the teacher to let her redo the project over the summer. However, in order for her to get another chance on her grade, she has to redo it with Quint and actually demonstrate that they worked together. This is all made even more interesting as she suddenly gets the ability to extend “instant karma” on people she feels are doing something wrong - e.g. a person “vandalizes” a sign, Prudence sees it, and the person promptly falls down and gets injured. The premise is interesting, and the setting of the majority of the plot was really enjoyable (sea animal rescue center), but this book unfortunately felt very flat to me and there were some inconsistencies in how “karma” was doled out. I still love Marissa Meyer, but this would definitely not be the Meyer book I would recommend.

You Don’t Look Your Age...and Other Fairytales by Sheila Nevins - 3 .5 ⭑

“You Don’t Look Your Age…and Other Fairytales” is a provocative book of essays that examine the complexities of what it means to be a woman and touches on several topics that are relevant throughout the lifespan. As is the case of all collections of essays, some were certainly more poignant than others and some were hysterical. I think the mix of essays was really refreshing in general and I enjoyed listening to the incredible cast of celebrities in the audiobook (I loved Ru Paul, Rosie O’Donnell, and Lily Tomlin in particular). While it was certainly enjoyable, I think it missed the mark in making a deeper impact in terms of connecting the stories in a cohesive way and instead felt disparate at points. Overall, it was still quick, fun, and it gave me an interesting perspective on some of the feelings I’ve had with aging lately, but I think I enjoyed it because of how effective it was as an audiobook rather than from the specific writing itself.

Troubles in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand - 3 .5 ⭑

Well, I really looked forward to finishing this series as the first book was so much fun. As stated in my previous review, the second book did not feel like it progressed the plot in any meaningful way until the end of the book, but I still enjoyed hanging out with (most of) the characters. The third and final installment of the “Paradise” series was definitely better than the second book, but unfortunately did not live up to the first book. We start off with Irene picking up the pieces after the FBI has come and seized all of her and Russell’s property in the Caribbean and in Iowa. Though apprehensive with the setup, she lives (separate bedrooms) and works with Huck as she tries to incrementally put her life together and figure out how to implicate Russell’s coworker, who is actually culpable. Meanwhile, Baker finally gets to the Caribbean with his son Floyd, but finds out they no longer have a home and has to stay at an expensive hotel until he can figure out where to go. In what I felt was rather lazy storytelling, he rents a place across the street from Ayers and almost immediately gets a really good lucrative job (…right). Cash is living with his girlfriend Tilda, but experiences “troubles in paradise” when a new, young rich douchecanoe (yes, that is the technical term) comes into the scene to entertain an investment idea. I don’t know. There are several different storylines in this novel, as there always are, but they did not particularly blend together well. Further, what I thought would be the ending of the series occurred at like 80-85%, with another super random event happening and making it all kind of leave off on a, “wait…what?” note. I think that Hilderbrand made a lot of interesting choices, but I don’t think it was executed in an altogether satisfying way. However, I do think that I’ve held up the second and third books to a very high standard because the first book was so excellent. Still, I binge-read these books and maintain that it’s a fun vacation read, but it missed the opportunity to truly be amazing.

A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by Kate Turabian - 4 ⭑

It definitely feels strange to review a book like this, because really it is just a good staple for graduate students to have. I really enjoyed the first few chapters that outlined the writing process and provided techniques on how to organize mass amounts of information. Otherwise, it really was just a manual to refer to, including information on grammar, how to cite every source possible, spelling, etc. I wish they would have made separate versions specifically for scientific writing vs. writing for the humanities, but it’s a book I now recommend to all my students who want to write a thesis with me. Honestly, I would occasionally pick up this book and read a few sections at a time and find myself becoming so inspired to write. So, for me, it worked to fight off writer’s block or procrastination, which was definitely a win.

A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmerer - 3.5 ⭑

I was really looking forward to the second installment of the Cursebreakers series because the first book was one of the best YA fantasy novels I’ve read in a long time, and particularly, one of the better “loosely based on Beauty and the Beast” renditions. We left off with Lilith being defeated by Grey, but Harper and Rhen are recovering with their new reality while not knowing where Grey is. Meanwhile, Grey is in hiding because he learns that he is the rightful heir of Emberfall and possesses magic, but he doesn’t want to threaten Rhen’s claim. Eventually, Grey is found and captured, but is forced to use his magic to escape because we see the darkest side of Rhen possible. He escapes to Shyl Shallow with a cast of interesting characters, including the brutal queen of Shyl Shallow’s peace seeking daughter Lia Mara, Grey’s friend from when he was hiding out (Tycho), Jake and Noah (Harper’s brother and his boyfriend), and Iisak, a new creature we are introduced to. I really liked some of the new characters, but the main characters from the previous book felt like vastly different people and the story was taken in a completely new (and frankly, unwanted) way. It took me a really long time to get into the story because I felt like the plot floundered for awhile and it definitely did not elicit the same feelings or vibe that the first book did. I still look forward to the next book, because I want to know how it all ends, but this book was very lukewarm compared to the first, which unfortunately seems to be a trend this year with series not living up to their first books.

Fight of the Century: Writers Reflect on 100 Years of Landmark ACLU Cases by Michael Chabon - 4 ⭑

“Fight of the Century” is a really interesting compilation of essays that explores the individual and cultural impacts of some of the hallmark ACLU cases. This is really difficult to rate and to evaluate as a whole, because obviously each section is vastly different depending on who the author is. As such, some of the essays were deeply personal and so moving and some barely applied to the case at hand. I initially picked up this book because I wanted more concrete information on the big Supreme Court cases, but I was disappointed that only very brief blurbs were provided on the details of the case. I wish there was a better ratio of information about the case to the author’s perspective and I also wish that some of the chapters read more as a courtroom drama of the case. If courtroom dramas of these cases are ever published in a similar setting, sign me up because I think that would be captivating. But this is still an enjoyable and easy read that I think will hit people in very individual and emotional ways with simultaneous education on some of the most important cases.

The Cold Millions by Jess Walter - 3 ⭑

Okay, time and setting-wise, this is a super captivating novel. The story follows Rye and Gig, the Dolan brothers, as they try to make their way in the early-20th century American West. While the younger brother, Rye, craves normalcy and stability, Gig is much more political, fighting for worker’s rights and ruffling some feathers along the way. After they get imprisoned for protesting, the youthful Rye is released and meets Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, a pregnant activist destined to leave her own mark. They also meet a vaudeville singer named Ursula, who is controlled by an evil powerful man. The brothers’ journeys separate, but they are always tethered to each other and make decisions always with the other in mind, desperate to once again reunite. So altogether, it was a super interesting cast of characters in a time that was masterfully described by the author, but I could not get into it because he wrote the story from multiple perspectives. Typically, this is not too much of an issue if the story still flows, but we would get each character’s perspective of the same event. Every time I got excited and wanted the plot to move forward, we would rewind again from a different person’s perspective and I was getting so frustrated that it took me out of the story. There was a lot of potential in this novel and if you’re a fan of this particular time frame, then I still would recommend it for the descriptions of each place and character, if for no other reason. But unfortunately, this book fell short for me as a whole.

Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy - 4 ⭑

“Why didn’t you tell me there was danger? Why didn’t you warn me? Ladies know what to guard against, because they read novels that tell them of these tricks; but I never had the chance of discovering in that way; and you did not help me!”

— Thomas Hardy, Tess of the D'Ubervilles

This is a hard review to write because I feel like I am still processing this book even though it has been a couple weeks since I finished it. The book starts off with a young, naive, and beautiful girl named Tess Durbeyfield who is on the cusp of beginning her life. After an unfortunate series of events in which her family’s main means of financial support has been ended, her parents send her off to seek help from the noble D’Urbervilles, with whom they recently discovered they were related. When she arrives, she meets her cousin Alec D’Urberville, who is immediately enchanted with her and forms this emphatic need to own and claim her by any means possible. Through trickery and manipulation, he offers her a position at the estate so that she can financially support her family. Even though she feels uneasy about the precarious situation, she is forced to accept on behalf of the well-being of her family. Without wanting to ruin the rest of the story (and this is really only the first 10% of it), we observe what happens when men desire women and face no consequences or experience any moral quandaries regarding it. We then observe the intense psychological trauma, which may lessen over time but also fundamentally defines a portion of her character and colors every single experience she endures for the rest of her life. To say that this is triggering is a huge understatement, but it is also clear why it is considered a “classic” - it is an important story that highlighted so many issues which were not (and honestly still aren’t) discussed. This is not a romance, but is rather painfully realistic - at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter that Tess is beautiful, sweet, and hardworking. No matter our intentions or characters, there are certain things that are beyond our control and life is not fair. Tess of the D’Ubervilles is a difficult but important read. My main complaint was in some of the portrayals of the female characters - although this is considered progressive for its time, I found it apparent at many points that this was written by a man because some of the female characters seemed more like caricatures or what men assume women are like and thinking. Still, I think this story will stay with and haunt me for a long time, which is truly a testament to this classic in that it is still as relevant and provocative today as it was in 1891.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelous - 5 ⭑

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill, of things unknown, but longed for still, and his tune is heard on the distant hill, for the caged bird sings of freedom.” Maya Angelou’s autobiography of her life up until the age of 17 is masterfully written and hauntingly beautiful. She grew up in Stamps, Arkansas with her older brother Bailey and was raised by her grandmother and her uncle for many of her formative years. She so beautifully integrates the harrowing experience of living in the KKK-ruled south while still expressing the childlike wonder of seemingly mundane daily activities. She goes into immense detail about her growth through the years, but no detail is too small because it is always contextualized within the larger picture. We experience her triumph and she finds and learns how to appreciate her voice and also the devastating losses that occur when you trust the wrong people. We watch her move back and forth across states from her grandma in the south to each parent and their new families in St. Louis and California. We observe how her relationships with people evolve, and how the only real constant in her childhood was Bailey, though the relationship was ever-changing by what he was going through as a young black man in the south. For me, I think this is the standard to which all other “coming of age” novels or even memoirs in general should be held against. It is poignant and timeless. It shows us that it is how we recover to the horrible events of our past that defines us, and not the horrible events themselves. Everyone should read this, but if you have a young woman in her life trying to find herself or trying to dig herself out of a seemingly bottomless hole, get this life changing novel to her immediately.

“You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I’ll rise.”

— Maya Angelous - "Still I Rise"

My favorites this month were I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and Midnight Library, both of which I would recommend to absolutely anyone and everyone. If you need to pick a book for book club, I think Midnight Library would lead to extremely interesting discussions and even self-reflection. Maya Angelou’s memoir of her childhood was deeply powerful and captivating and I truly believe that every woman coming of age should read this. I was fortunate enough to meet Maya Angelou in New York when I was 15 years old. “Still I Rise” will always be my favorite poem and I was so nervous to approach her and to attempt to convey how much her words meant to me. And while I wish I could remember every exact word she spoke to me, I will never forget how she made me feel. I didn’t feel like “just a fan” or a hassle by any means - I felt completely seen, like she took that minute to really look me in the eyes, into the depths of my soul, and to wish me well. I felt her incredible power for love again when I read this book and got to witness how it began.

Until next time,

Alexandra

January Book Blog

So it’s March and I am just now getting to the January Book Blog. Yikes. I am sure you all have been sitting at the edge of your seats, eagerly anticipating the next blog release, but before we get into the actual substance, I do feel like a brief update on our lives here is warranted.

My constant view during lockdown - a book and Harry

Family time

Germany has been in a fairly strict lockdown (stricter than almost anything the US has had outside of the initial lockdown) since November. We were supposed to have restrictions lifted FINALLY in the next few weeks, but that was on the condition that cases were not to increase, which of course they did when the lockdown restrictions were lightened. So we are essentially back to square one, waiting to hear whether we will be able to sit outside at a cafe or go to a museum (or do literally anything) in the next month. And while you have all been fighting the fight for quicker access to vaccines in the US, please count your blessings as to how lucky you are that nearly 20% of the US population is vaccinated, whereas only ~3-5% here in Germany have had both doses with a very limited amount of vaccines available. I encourage you to look at what is happening in the EU with vaccines, and even in places like Brazil, which are being hit hard with variants while also not having access (or dealing with bureaucratic issues) to vaccines. To put it into perspective, Matt’s parents came to visit us almost a year ago to the day and had to leave two days after arriving here because of the hasty announcement that all US citizens abroad had to return immediately. Since then, we have been in lockdown for 9 of the last 12 months. It has been tough, to say the least.  

Tom-Athon: So far, we’ve watched “Apollo 13,” “A League of their Own,” “Volunteers,” “Sully,” “The Terminal,” “News of the World,” “You’ve Got Mail”

Matt and I have been sitting in our tiny apartment, trying to find new and inventive ways to entertain ourselves. We have been making many charcuterie board iterations, finally figured out how to get food delivered to us (we’re not inept, I swear), and have started a Tom-athon, which is, yes, a Tom Hanks movie marathon. We could not more highly recommend this by the way, because every movie is. a. cinematic. gem. But anyway, as the German semester was wrapping up (October-February), I was swamped with teaching on zoom and writing manuscripts constantly for work. It has made my writing for pleasure fall way behind because it feels too similar to what I am doing at work and we have desperately needed variation in our lives. But still, I do miss sitting at my computer with Harry, writing and reflecting on all the books I’ve read this year. So yes, I am behind, but I do intend to post (hopefully) once a week for the next month to catch up as the original plan was a blog post every 2 weeks.

But alas, now to the actual substance (and sorry I apparently don’t know what the word “brief” means). On my Goodreads account, I have been trying to post reviews for every book I read as I read them (I’m already way behind). I’ve decided to post them here on the blog monthly so you can get an idea for what I’m reading and/or figure out what you do or do not want to read. I like to think that I read a huge variety of books, so hopefully, you can find something that you may be interested in. Fair warning: I read a ton in January because we couldn’t do anything and it was too cold to spend time outside. But without further ado, I now present the books read in January:

“Everyone thinks I’m going to eventually die of a heart attack, but joke’s on y’all—it’s definitely going to be of secondhand embarrassment.”

— Samantha Irby

Wow, No Thank You by Samantha Irby - Rating: 3.5 ⭑

This was technically my first book read of the new year, but it was carried over from last year. I have never read Samantha Irby before, but I’m always intrigued by her covers and titles, and this one in particular is a phrase that repeatedly comes out of my mouth, so I decided to give it a try. Generally, I’m glad I did. It was reminiscent of Lindy West and other funny ladies, though there is a lack of direction or theme in this book compared to the others mentioned. Still, I think that it is sometimes needed to sit with someone you would like to be friends with, and to be able to relate on a deep level: "Everyone thinks I’m going to eventually die of a heart attack, but joke’s on y’all—it’s definitely going to be of secondhand embarrassment.” Or my other favorite, achingly true line: "I spent a lot of my twenties trying on new personalities, especially when convincing people to either be my friend or to have sex with me. Nothing drastic, just shit like going to experimental music shows or being really good about regular eyebrow maintenance.” All in all, if you a) like reading about realistic women who are exhausted by society’s suggested ideals of traditional womanhood or b) are just in a mood to be generally pissy (which, let’s admit, is definitely a *mood* we’ve experienced), then you may want to rage with this read.

Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand - Rating: 4.5 ⭑

Like many people, I love reading books that go along with the season (witchy books in the fall, cheesy Hallmark movie plots around Christmas, etc.), so I decided to put a hold on this book to read in December. I had read Summer of 69 by Elin Hilderbrand (the same author) before, and I have come to the conclusion that she is particularly excellent at writing family dramas on beaches and I am here for it. I expected to this to be a fun, light read by the title, but I was completely engrossed in the drama and could not put it down.

The story follows a woman from Iowa, Irene, whose doting husband seems like the perfect man: he’s the father of her two sons (Baker and Cash), he makes a great deal of money from a job he got through a fellow Northwestern alumnus, and he travels a lot, which gives Irene the freedom to renovate their Iowan Victorian home per her every desire. As loving as he may seem, Irene receives a call that her husband died in a helicopter crash in the British Virgin Islands, with a local woman, Rosie, when Irene thought he was in Florida (uhh..what?!). Irene and her two sons fly down to St. John to deal with the aftermath, wrap their heads around what happened, and figure out who Rosie is. Even though the circumstances surrounding the family are extraordinary, Hilderbrand does an incredible job of portraying real human emotions and how we cope in different ways. This book was not five stars for me because there are a few characters that are underdeveloped and disappointing (Ayers - ugh) when comparing them to some of the other subplots, but I was engrossed and could not wait to get my hands on the other. Also, as a a Nebraskan girl living abroad who desperately misses the Midwest, I about cried when I stumbled on this quote: "The cookout was always potluck. Irene brought her corn salad with dill, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan, and people raved over it; she told them the secret was just-picked corn. Go to the stand just off I-80, she said. It’s so much better than the Hy-Vee!” Not only did Hilderbrand help me escape to the Caribbean, but she also took me to my favorite grocery store and the interstate I frequent 😩. I highly recommend this book - I was lucky enough to read it at the perfect time, which I’m sure helped my enjoyment, but it was fun and a perfect vacation read.

Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell - Rating: 3 ⭑

I tried. I love historical fiction, I love Shakespeare, and I love stories that are loosely based on Shakespeare’s life and/or time frame. I’m going against how it is reviewed, but this book did not do it for me. The writing was beautiful and the characters were interesting, but the choice to jump back and forth in timelines was confusing and I think it made the story less impactful as a whole. To summarize what happens more chronologically, a young William Shakespeare (though he is never named explicitly as such in the book) is required to tutor the kids of a sheep farmer that his drunk father owes. He ends up falling in love with one of the farmer’s children, Agnes (presumably Anne Hathaway), who has special abilities with divination and plants, and ultimately becomes pregnant with his child. William’s father schemes to have the two married to fully pay off his debts, but Agnes realizes that William isn’t happy and helps create a situation in which he can go to London, where he will eventually act and write plays, with the plan for her and the children to move to London with him after a bit. After the birth of her first daughter, she gets pregnant with twins, but is surprised because she knows that she only will have two children total and is thus worried about what will happen. She puts off going to London to take care of the children, but as this is the age of the plague, one of the children becomes ill and this changes the entire trajectory of the plan she and William had. It is an interesting plot, as I stated before, and the ending is emotional and beautiful, but I was disappointed in the order in which the story was told unfortunately.

What Happens in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand - 3.5 ⭑

This is the second installment in the “Paradise” series, but it unfortunately did not live up to the glory of the first book. With that said, however, I’m still dying to know what happens to this family, but this book felt like it did not progress the plot or tempo in any way. All of the sudden, the book was just over (I binge-read it) and I was shocked because the ending was the first time something was actually happening plot-wise. If I was not so engrossed in what will happen to Irene, Baker, Cash, Anna, Maia, and Huck, it probably would have gotten a lower rating, but I trust that Elin Hilderbrand will bring me back into the next one.

Essentially, Irene and her sons all decide to return to St. John and stay there for the foreseeable future and establish roots, ironically in the place where their father led a false life. While we got to figure out more about Russell and Rosie’s relationship through her diaries, I found her to be so unlikeable and the affair unjustifiable. I wanted to like them a little bit. I wanted to understand their choices, lies, and complete deceptions a little bit, if not for their sakes, then for the sakes of the characters around them, but I just didn’t. And don’t get me started on Ayers - what is the obsession with this girl!? She’s constantly complaining about her amazing upbringing, making terrible choices that don’t even make sense, but everyone just can’t get enough of her and falls over her completely - except for me, apparently. I don’t know. I need to read book #3, and that hasn’t changed, but please, give me more of Irene and Huck, more of Baker, Anna, and the hilarious Houston moms, more of Tilda, but less of Ayers, Rosie, and Russell (though I know that will be impossible).

This is How We Fly by Anna Meriano - Rating: 4 ⭑

“It’s sexist to act like teenage girls are some unknowable force of nature. Teenage girls are amazing...The world—my world specifically—is a better place because of the love and loyalty and passion of girls.”

— This is How We Fly

Trust me when I say that no one is more surprised than me that this is getting a 4-star rating, but hear me out. I picked this book out because it was about quidditch, which was one of my favorite aspects of the Harry Potter world, but I almost didn’t read it because it was described as a quasi modern retelling of Cinderella (which is a story that just infuriates me in the first place - I mean, girl has a tragic event happen to her, and then gets s*** on by everyone in her life, and most annoyingly, does absolutely nothing to stand up for herself) in angsty teenager form. And while there were parts of this book that drove me nuts, mostly in how obtuse the parents could be and also how the main character couldn’t be honest with her supposed, lifelong best friends, there were also aspects that I found extremely refreshing in a YA novel. Like many YA novels right now, several issues were discussed, including gender identity, sexuality, racial identity, death of parents, etc., but the way in which these issues were brought up were actually seamless and fit within the plot well. Racial identity was only brought up briefly, but in one paragraph, Ellen, the main character, was able to eloquently express a lot of the struggles biracial or mixed racial people feel, but in a raw, honest and not preachy way. Further, the gender inclusivity of the sport of Quidditch helped bring these issues up in a really organic way, where it was something the reader was constantly aware of, but it wasn’t necessarily a main plot of the book - I think the author did a really elegant job of diversity and inclusivity within the book without it feeling pointed and forced. It was refreshing.

Finally, and for me most importantly, it acknowledged how the views expressed by JKR following the books are antithetical in so many ways to what people love about the books and took comfort in and how it has made so many HP fans around the world conflicted about the magical world she created…but that’s just it. She created the world, but she can’t create everyone’s place in it nor their experience. I feel revitalized in my love for HP, its world, and the fandom, and I’m able to separate that from views she has expressed that I completely disagree with. Ultimately, this gets four stars for me, and my (surprised) feelings about this YA novel are neatly summarized by some of the main character’s words: “It’s sexist to act like teenage girls are some unknowable force of nature. Teenage girls are amazing...The world—my world specifically—is a better place because of the love and loyalty and passion of girls."

Ring Shout by P. Djèlí Clark - Rating: 5 ⭑

This is my first 5-star book of 2021, and honestly, I’m having a difficult time writing a review on it because I am still in awe at the beauty, ingenuity, complexity, and overall badassery that was this book. I have never read anything quite like this, and while it is slightly reminiscent of Tarantino’s Django Unchained in a way in terms of bending historical events, the fantastical elements make it distinctly its own entity. Ring shouts, for which the book is named, are religious rituals practiced by African slaves, where they stomp and “shout” in a circle. Not only do they play a key role thematically and plot-wise in the book, but the meanings of specific “shouts” are explained through primary accounts (primarily from the Gullah people) by the author, which ultimately provided this very fantastical book with grounded, real history in a deeply powerful way. In the book, Maryse and her two friends, Sadie and Chef, are warriors who are able to see the true monsters in the KKK, which are creatures called Ku Kluxes that feed on hate and are difficult to kill. Maryse has been chosen as a champion by the spirits and bestowed a sword that contains the power of ancestors sold into slavery and which came to her after a traumatic experience in her childhood to specifically defeat the Ku Kluxes. But naturally, as Maryse's strengths and ability to defeat Ku Kluxes evolve, so naturally do the powers of hate, and her enemy becomes deeply personal. Maryse will ultimately have to face her trauma and her pain, determine how powerful she will allow her hate to be, and seek help from a slew of interesting supernatural characters. The book is short, but it is packed with the most hauntingly beautiful imagery and verbal history. It was masterfully done, and I am forever a fan of P. Djèlí Clark, who (and I don’t say this lightly) really constructed a piece of literary genius.

Among the Beasts & Briars by Ashley Poston - 2.5 ⭑

I would not consider myself as someone with rigorously high literary standards by any means, but this book did not do it for me. Let me start off by saying that there were elements I really enjoyed: in terms of magical abilities in a fantasy novel, I was compelled by the protagonist’s nature-bending powers, which to me, are not overdone and was particularly interesting. I’m also a sucker for any story with strong fairytale vibes and enchanted forests. But even with these elements, I absolutely could not get over the relationship with the fox and literally laughed out loud at so many parts. Let me state that I experienced this as an audiobook, and the majority of my listening happens on public transportation, so I looked extra crazy.

But back to the plot - the story starts with a girl named Cerys, who is the daughter of the palace gardener and has magic in her blood as a remnant from the worst day of her life. Flashback to her childhood: though the woods are enchanted and forbidden, she is playing with the royal prince and princess near its edge and the prince decides to go into the forest because he hears a sound. He soon disappears and is in mortal danger with the forest's creatures, so the princess and Cerys (and another guard) follow in. Only Cerys and the princess leave the forest, with Cerys’ mother also dying in order to save her. So after this uplifting introduction, the princess is now about to take over the crown, which keeps the forest creatures at bay essentially, but of course, the transition is impeded by said creatures and now Cerys has to seek help from a secret people who live in the woods that may or may not be real. But FEAR NOT, the apparently annoying fox in her garden becomes a human and helps her on this journey. And this here is when I lose it. When the fox is turned into a human, her immediate reaction is like, “whoa he’s kinda hot” and I just died because I pictured my cat turning into a human and feeling that way and it was just gross and hilarious to be honest. Eventually, this storyline will make sense, but “the big reveal" becomes obvious about 1/3 of the way into the book and they wait until the end to explain what you’ve already logically guessed, and then still somehow rush the ending. So overall, weird plot, underdeveloped characters, not a surprising, yet still rushed ending, and uncomfortable romance. The cover is pretty though? And there were promising elements so I will definitely not rule out this author, at the very least.

In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren - Rating: 3.5 ⭑

Look, I wanted to read the equivalent of a Hallmark Christmas movie and found this book to be highly recommended. Of course the ending was going to be predictable. And on top of that, the plot was essentially an homage to “Groundhog’s Day” thematically with a time loop scenario, so there are already so many copied elements from other movies. But with that said, I still found myself enjoying it. Romance novels have a soft spot in my heart because they are so easy to read voraciously, and as such, I have read many a romance novel in my day. At this point though, it’s so difficult to find RomCom books that transcend the stereotypical bullshit while also not making my inner feminist self scream “HEY ISN’T THAT SORT OF JUST MANIPULATION AND EMOTIONAL ABUSE OR DO WE THINK THIS IS CUTE NOW?!” But I got to say…this would have been a super entertaining Christmas movie.

The book starts out with Madelyn Jones, a unsatisfied 26-year old who still lives with her mom and stepdad because California is expensive and she’s in a rut, panicking about kissing the brother of the guy she has been obsessed with since a teenager. Maelyn and her family, including each of her divorced parents, go to the same cabin every year of her life with the same exact people, who were friends of her parents from college and now their families. They have the exact same traditions every year, and every year, Maelyn silently yearns for the son of her parents’ best friends, Andrew, but spends all her time with his younger brother, who is less intimidating. During this Christmas, she makes out with him, causing her to have an unnecessary existential crisis. After an extremely uncomfortable morning brush-off, all the cabin attendees find out that the cabin is going on the market due to too much upkeep, and all of the traditions will now have to inevitably change. She is already in a rut, and this tradition that she feels defines her to an extent, is being taken away. As she prays for the universe to show her what will make her happy, she gets in a car crash and wakes up on the plane six days before. Now she’s in a time loop and has to figure out what she wants and weird situations and time loops happen, etc. It sort of felt like reading the movie “Dan in Real Life” with the family cabin scenario mixed with "Groundhog Day", but I enjoyed those movies and I enjoyed this book too. Is this a story for the ages? No. But if you can lower your standards enough to enjoy some of the crappy Netflix Christmas movies (aka the Royal Prince franchise - seriously, what is that?), then you’ll certainly enjoy this.

Influencer: Building Your Personal Brand in the Age of Social Media by Brittany Hennessy - Rating: 3 ⭑

This book is difficult to rate, because it was not bad and the author clearly has a lot of experience in multiple facets of this industry, but it was also not what I expected at all. I really thought this would be an Instagram-specific ode to “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert to an extent, with a focus on personalizing your brand and the process of creating high quality content. I thought this could help me figure out how to expand writing on my blog in an effective, modern way. But unfortunately for me, the was just a small part of the book and the remainder was more like a “how to” manual on doing this completely for a living with many of the logistics considered. So if you want that, I’m sure this book will be helpful…but for me, I only really enjoyed ~2-3 chapters, some of the insights provided by influencers, and the ending message of “Why not me?"

Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth - Rating: 4.5 ⭑

I just finished this book earlier today (when I wrote this review in January), but I cannot stop thinking about it. The book started off really slow and went to so many different perspectives and timelines without any clear demonstration of how they would eventually link, at least for me. And honestly, even though I enjoyed the individual storylines, I was getting annoyed at how long it was taking for me to become fully engrossed in the story. But once it did, I was fascinated. This horror book was so meta and thus needed the time to set itself up correctly - essentially, it is a book about a movie based off a book, but the movie includes the content of the book itself and also the making of the movie with an homage to a previous story detailing the curse of Brookhants School of Girls. Confused yet? So was I. But when each story finally links up, it is excellent and smart and so different from any other book I’ve read. Describing the plot seems futile, as there are so many characters with so many motivations, but I will try to VERY simply summarize the gist.

There is a curse on the land at Brookhants School for Girls. At this location at many times in the past, there have been atrocities committed against women at the hands of men, or from society’s expectations for women, or just from straight up magic/witchy happenings. Merritt, the author of the book on the curse at Brookhants, grew up visiting Elaine Brookhants, the last living relative in the family line whom encouraged Merritt to write a book about it, which became a bestseller and was eventually optioned for a movie. During the filming process, creepy things happen constantly, both manufactured and natural, to Merritt and the two leading ladies, Harper and Audrey, leading to a deep bond formed between the three of them. As their horrors unfold, scenes of the past are explained to provide context and lead up to a really exciting ending, including the stories of two young women who were lovers and ran the school at a time where this was not accepted, and the young girls at the school, who became obsessed with the autobiography of Mary MacLane and all mysteriously ended up dead (there’s a curse, remember?). But this is why it didn’t get 5 stars from me - it took like 500 pages to get to this nonstop page-turning point, and then the ending felt so incomplete to me. I have SO many questions about a few things that happened at the end, primarily regarding what the point was of certain characters and what really happened to them. It was more frustrating than usual because of the time investment to get to that point, but at the same time, I cannot stop thinking about it, which in my opinion, makes for a great, provocative read.

A few things that drove me a little nuts in the book included SO MANY side notes for the reader, which were sometimes extremely helpful and interesting, but many times, super excessive. The author also broke the fourth wall a lot and called us “Readers” (e.g., “Readers, forgive me,” “As you know, readers,” etc.) - this technique is really neat when done a few times, but after a while, it became a bit pedantic. Still, I really enjoyed this book and I think this author is uniquely brilliant. I’m very excited for her next works. And readers (lol, couldn’t help myself), the real cherry on top was reading the “About the Author” at the end and finding out she got her PhD in Creating Writing from THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN, aka my alma mater, aka the greatest institution, and anyway I just have so many feelings about having this important shared connection with her (cue “Mean Girls” speech from the girl who “doesn’t even go here”). I highly recommend this book, particularly if you enjoy horror or twisted stories.

Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson - Rating: 5 ⭑

Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents has been highly touted by celebrities (it’s an Oprah’s Book Club pick) and critics alike that either praise its brilliance or are inspired by its analysis. I think it is extremely difficult to live up to this level of hype, but Isabel Wilkerson did just that and more. Caste breaks down the experience of African Americans throughout American history through the lens of a race-based caste system and compares it with the brief, yet volatile caste system of Nazi Germany and the long-held, culturally embedded (albeit problematic) caste system in India. Caste systems serve to rank people by setting them at extreme opposite poles of each other and attaching arbitrary meanings to those poles. While caste is not synonymous with the term race, it is the structure behind the system that creates and maintains inequality, and creates the hierarchical lines. Maintaining the caste sytem thus becomes doing whatever is in one’s power to preclude lower caste members from increasing in status.

The book starts off with modern American history, with particular attention to the last two presidents and the evolution from a seemingly post-racial world (election of President Obama) to the response 8 years later in the form of an abject refusal for this blatant break of the caste system. Wilkerson then goes on to demonstrate how these human divisions were artificially constructed and how it forced people into specific roles, e.g., the social construction of race. European immigrants all became “white” once they came to America as opposed to “Czech" or “German" in direct juxtaposition to black slaves in an effort to avoid being at the lowest rung on the caste ladder. Whiteness, like blackness, was constructed in order to designate the lines upon which the caste system was based. Wilkerson then compares the execution of the rules and/or pillars that need to be enforced for caste system hierarchies to endure, and the wide-ranging consequences of living in a caste system, particularly for those deemed to be at the lowest levels (black Americans, Jewish people, and the Dalits, or Untouchables). While it seems easy to suggest that the Nazis were the most extreme manifestation of caste in terms of violence, Hitler drew inspiration from how white Americans handled indigenous people and African slaves while simultaneously maintaining an air of innocence. Yet even Hitler found some American implementations of caste to be too harsh, including the “one drop” rule, where an American with “even a drop of Negro blood in their veins’ counted as black.” Conversely, the Dalits of the Indian caste system were inspired by the Reconstruction and the Civil Rights Movement in the US, particularly as they felt akin in India to African Americans in the US. Indeed, when Martin Luther King Jr. traveled to India, he referred to himself “an untouchable in America,” implying an inextricable link between the two groups. Towards the end of the book, the resurgence of caste and how it is manifesting in modern day America is discussed. In a particularly poignant section, Wilkerson contrasts how Germans face the consequences of the Holocaust with how Americans deal with slavery. While Germans have constant reminders of the atrocities committed and the names of the afflicted in an attempt to take responsibility for their past, Americans have monuments celebrating soldiers who fought to maintain slavery and who owned slaves themselves, committing several atrocities along the way.

Though caste has been embedded in American history from as early as it was “discovered” by non-indigenous people, the inability of Americans to reconcile our dark history coupled with the mechanisms in place to maintain the current status quo (disproportionate mass incarceration of black people, voter suppression, police brutality etc.) make this piece extremely relevant. In order to dismantle the caste system here, we must understand it, name it, and reconcile for it. The arguments presented were brilliantly explained throughout the book and I was captivated by the blend of history and modern events. For me, this book hit every mark and was deeply illuminating and personal as a half-Indian woman born in America, but currently living in Germany. This is the epitome of a 5 star, MUST read.

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain - Rating: 4 ⭑

To be frank, I decided to read the book because I fell in love with married a VERY quiet man, so I felt like this book may serve as a direct insight into the inner workings of his brain. The book starts off by demonstrating how society favors extroverts over introverts and the assumptions that are made for people in those categories. Interestingly, it also highlights extremely successful introverts that succeeded by exemplifying who they were fundamentally in effective ways, including Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, and Abraham Lincoln. The book then continues to delve into the biology behind introversion and extroversion, examines divergent cultural attitudes towards the two, and provides ways in which collaboration between the two can be synergistic, as long as the differences are understood between parties. I found the book to be rather interesting the whole way through and appreciated the emphasis on key studies and introversion success stories. However, I was most intrigued by the idea of an “ambivert” (a balance of extrovert and introvert tendencies) which was a term I had not previously been aware of and now feel is what I actually am. I always assumed I was an extrovert because I love communicating and being around people, but I also have a deep need to recharge and spend some time alone (ahem, maybe why I read so much). I felt like I learned a lot of ways to cultivate both introvert and extrovert tendencies in this book, and for the first time, realized that me being highly sensitive or radically empathetic may be because I hover between the two. I feel like reading this book was ultimately an effective self-development tool for myself and for understanding my husband, which was not something I initially envisioned when I decided to check it out. Is it the greatest book of all time? No, but it may help you understand and relate to others better, and more importantly, understand yourself more. I absolutely recommend this read, and particularly, to young adults who are still learning about themselves.

Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam - Rating: 3 ⭑

This book was really difficult to rate, because on one hand, I cranked the audiobook speed to 2.0x and listened to the whole thing in one sitting because I needed to know how it ended. But on the other hand, even with listening to it fast, the author’s writing came off as unnecessarily grandiose at times and more importantly, I feel deeply unsettled (or is it unsatisfied?) at the ending. No spoilers here, but when the book ended, I literally screamed “WAIT WHAT?” And as a girl with frequent nightmares, I did not need any ambiguity, so take that for what it is worth. The book starts with Amanda and Clay, a working New York couple with two teenagers (Archie and Rose), on vacation in rural Long Island at a secluded cabin they rented. After a normal day of vacation activities, they are startled by the appearance of the elderly couple who own the place, Ruth and G.H., who tell them that the power is down in New York City, and they came here hoping to share the house because they cannot get up and down 14 flights of stairs or deal with the power outage in the city. After contemplating whether this is an intricate murder plot, Amanda and Clay agree to let them stay while trying to figure out what actually is happening. Of course they have no service. Of course Clay gets super lost when he tries to drive into town to talk to people to find out what’s going on. Of course they hear an “indescribable" sound a few times that makes gives them apocalyptic questions and may lead to physical repercussions. Of course animals (and I mean…a weird choice of animals) show up out of nowhere and in mass amounts. And of course you are sitting at the edge of your seat, desperate to know what is happening, whether the family will survive, whether Ruth and GH are who they say they are, whether any one else is alive, etc. Seriously, you will have a thousand questions, but hopefully, a few more of yours will get answered than mine did. Entertaining for a good portion of the read, but there was a lot of unnecessary filler (despite its short length) and a lot of questions remain.

The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow - Rating: 4.5 ⭑

“‘Seems to me they’re the same thing, more or less.’ ‘What are?’ … ‘Witching and women’s rights. Suffrage and spells. They’re both…’ She gestures in midair again. ‘They’re both a kind of power, aren’t they? The kind we aren’t allowed to have.’”

— The Once and Future Witches

Admittedly, it took me awhile to get into this book, despite the fact that two of my favorite themes/topics were discussed: witches and feminism. Although it is by no means a novel concept now, I always felt, even as a young girl who first heard about the Salem Witch Trials upon reading excerpts from “The Crucible” for an acting class, that witches were just women deeply in tune with their inner selves and nature. Men, who were threatened by women embracing their feminine nature and subversive ideas that threatened traditional patriarchy, accused them of the supernatural and burned them. I have readily discussed my thoughts on witches with anyone who would listen for as long as I can remember, but it is partially because I feel certain that had I lived in the era of the Salem Witch Trials, there is no way I would have made it through, and because of this, I love stories about witches and the women who have been burned by being too bold and “threatening.”

Still, the book was very long, and at times, it felt like the pace was crawling, which is why it got a 1/2 star deduction from me. But because of the length, we get to go on a real and emotional journey with the Eastwood sisters - Agnes, Bella, and Juniper - who try to regain their ancient “witchy” wisdom in New Salem, a place where women of all kinds are repressed in their own ways. The three sisters represent (yet in my opinion, defy) traditional archetypes imposed upon women - the maiden, the mother, and the crone, and harness their individual strengths (and weaknesses) to defeat a dark and ancient force. There is an abundance of interesting characters we encounter along the way and so many parts of this book felt like an homage to being a woman. I especially loved how old spells were hidden in nursery rhymes and seemingly innocuous places that men would never find, which is how a woman’s wisdom was passed through the ages. The last 1/3 of the book was action heavy and I can easily visualize how this could be adapted for the screen. I do feel like there is a very specific audience for this book, but at the same time, it would be a great introduction for those trying to get into fantasy novels more or literally just for ANYONE who appreciates witches and “Practical Magic” as much as I do (I mean, witches and sisters. You cannot go wrong). As I stated before, the book was very long, but I found it so rewarding and am still enamored by the little bits of wisdom strewn throughout the text. For those skeptical by these stories, I will say that I did not predict the ending at all, and I’m usually really good at figuring out where the story will go early, so truly, this is a highly recommended book from me, especially for my fellow witches.

The Marriage Game by Sara Desai - Rating: 2 ⭑

I cannot believe that I’m sitting here giving an Indian rom-com a 2 star rating, but this book absolutely did not do it for me. Basically, the book is about a girl named Layla Patel who moves back to San Francisco to be with her family after a humiliating and public breakup with an influencer that goes viral. Her father, who runs a Michelin star restaurant with her mother, allows her to start and run her employment agency in the offices upstairs, despite the fact that he has already rented it out to a self-hating Indian guy whose job is to fire people. He was initially a surgeon (because can an Indian lead really have a different occupation?), but quits when his sister experiences a catastrophic fall likely at the hands of his surgeon mentor, aka her husband. If you’re confused already and feel like the story is jumping all over the place, good, so was I. But back to the story…Layla’s dad has a heart attack right when she finds out she can use the office, so her and Sam (the self-hating Indian), try to figure out how to share the office in the meantime, but it proves difficult because they irrationally hate each other immediately. In the meantime, Layla finds out that her dad has created a profile for her on an Indian arranged marriage website without telling her (creepy) and has narrowed down her hundreds of matches to ten guys. Because Sam is afraid of arranged marriages after what happened to his sister, and because he’s low key attracted to Layla whilst still being an asshole to her, he accompanies her on all of these dates as her chaperone. Layla feels like she should go because her dad obviously loves her so much and only wants the best for her, and based on her previous relationships, she has awful taste, so she feels that she should see these ten dates through. Without giving too much away, literally all of these guys are freaks, sociopaths, and completely wrong for her, and of course, Layla falls for this self-hating Indian man who is extremely rude so many times. The book manages to play on so many Indian stereotypes while simultaneously not feeling realistic to an Indian family at all. I admittedly laughed a couple times, but by the ending, I was so disappointed and confused. Ugh. I just can’t recommend this.

So this was definitely a busy month of reading, but my favorites this month were definitely Ring Shout, Caste, The Once and Future Witches, and Plain Bad Heroines.

Until next time,

Alexandra

New Years Book Blog

I would consider myself as someone who is fairly reflective and intrigued by symbolism, which makes the transition into a new year an exciting and contemplative time. At the end of each year, I go through the motions of cleansing and decluttering my life, though admittedly, I usually quit after going through clothes and beauty products as that is overwhelming enough. I also like going through the 19383029 photos I have taken throughout the year and reflect on the experiences I have had, the monumental occasions and moments, lessons I have learned, both personally and professionally, and the struggles. What does this year mean in the context of my life? Have I become closer or farther away from my authentic self? What did I learn? In the year of 2020, these probing questions and answers have deserved more meditation than previous years. While I am leaving this year with a fair amount of open-ended questions, thematically designating it as a “to be determined” year with regards to how I grow from here and how to mitigate my concerns, I do know these things to be unequivocally true:

1. As much as I adore living in Europe and being able to travel (when we could travel), home truly is where the heart is, and my heart is where my family is. I have been lucky enough to live near my family for the vast majority of my life, but I squandered that blessing and did not spend the time with them that I am so desperate to have with them now (but at least I’m learning a life lesson, right?).

2. I am a smart and passionate woman. I am also inept and woefully inadequate at doing certain basic things that a normal adult human does regularly and without thought, like I don’t know, feeding myself and going to bed at regular times. BUT, because I am smart, I realized that I needed to find a person to help me with these minor (major) ineptitudes, and was lucky enough to marry my best friend this year, Matthew. With COVID, we had to make major adjustments to a wedding that had been meticulously planned for many years (1.5 in truth, but really 30 since I am extra and have dreamt of it my whole life). After simplifying and reducing the original plans, it ended up even better than my dreams and deeply personal and intimate.

3. Isolation and lockdown are very difficult for me. Even though I LOVE having nights alone on the couch with Matt and Netflix, a forced almost year of it has made me realize how much I value human connection (i.e., hugs) and being able to have coffee and conversations with my tribe. Yes, you can still do these things over zoom, but I’m 7 hours ahead and the timing makes it extremely difficult to connect with my people at home, especially when your main person/sister just had an adorable son who is also possibly a monster that expresses joy through screaming and loud babbles every time you try to talk. Still, my nephew is my favorite person in the entire world, and his aptitude for drama rivals only my own - I would include a picture for proof, but according to his parents’ wishes, he will not be on social media until “he can willingly give his own consent.” 🙄

   1. Me: “Dylan, start screaming for no reason if I can post a picture of you on insta.”

   2. Dylan: (screaming constantly)

   3. Me: “Pretty sure that is his tacit compliance.” 🤷🏽‍♀️

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So you’re probably wondering whether that extraordinarily long preamble was necessary, and in truth probably not, but I have been moved by the authors that have bared their souls to me this year and think that reciprocating that vulnerability is the only way to do justice to their tremendous impact on keeping me sane this year. In this “New Years Book Blog,” I will:

1. Recap my favorite books from 2020. When I do this on my own, I also like to match up recurring themes, favorite authors, etc., but as that would take up a whole book of its own (a book on books, how meta), I’ll just go over my faves from this year and include my total list of books read this year, courtesy of Goodreads.

2. Create my 2021 Reading List. I talked about my 2020 list in the first book blog, but coming up with this list always resets me and inspires me for the learning ahead. Let me know if you decide to create one of your own this year as well :)

I also like to go over the 2020 Goodreads Choice Awards books and figure out which 2020 books are worth reading (if I haven’t already read them) as well as reading through my quotes and highlights from the books I’ve read and reflect on them. But without further ado, and there’s been a lot of ado thus far, let’s start actually talking about books.

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1. Favorite Books of 2020

This year, I read 140 books and 49,819 pages (my year in books). This was definitely the most I have ever read in a year, but you know, quarantine. Still, my top 10 favorite books that I read this year, in no particular order, include:

• What is a Girl Worth? - Rachael Denhollander: This book details the history behind how Rachael Denhollander, competitive gymnast and now attorney, exposed Larry Nassar, the USA Gymnastics team doctor, for the sexual assault of hundreds of young athletes. This was an intense read, to say the least, but the story is so moving and heartbreaking and triumphant all at the same time.

• The Moment of Lift - Melinda Gates: An excellent book that discusses how the direct empowerment of women can empower communities. She presents a compelling argument on the importance of reproductive control and family planning, which then led to expanding access to jobs, sharing responsibilities in the household between partners, and increasing access to education.

• The Book of Joy - The Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu: This book is essentially a transcript of conversations between Dalai Lama XIV and Desmond Tutu about joy - the teachings of joy, personal struggles, the science behind joy, and daily spiritual chances. It is, as expected, beautiful and uplifting.

• Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela: This book is very long, but it covers Nelson Mandela’s life from his tribal youth, to his 27 year imprisonment, and finally to how apartheid in South Africa began to end. Matt and I both read this and enjoyed it immensely.

• The Color Purple - Alice Walker: At the beginning of this year, I wanted to read more books recommended from Well Read Black Girl by Glory Edim, and found myself picking this book. This is a book that will touch you to your very core. It is a powerful story about rural African American sisters whose lives were forcibly separated and how they eventually made their ways back to each other, down vastly different paths. Absolutely incredible and stunning prose.

• The Huntress - Kate Quinn: I love historical fiction, and this book was an incredible piece focusing on some women of WWII: the Huntress, a woman Nazi who killed children in the war; Nina, a “Night Witch” bomber for the Soviet Union; and Jordan, a young American girl who is suspicious of her father’s German wife. The book starts slow as you’re sorting yourself through these narratives, but builds into a compelling story, with the lives of these seemingly different women inextricably linked. Highly recommend.

• Mexican Gothic - Silva Moreno-Garcia: To be honest, I decided to read this book because the cover was gorgeous, but I am so glad I did. In this, my first horror book, Noemí, a young girl from a rich family in Mexico, is sent to help her ailing cousin who recently and hastily married an Englishman with an estate in the Mexican countryside an in interesting family… Naturally, not everything is as it seems and I could not put the book down until I found out how the mysteries all made sense. I really enjoyed this and think Silva Moreno-Garcia is an author to watch for.

• The Henna Artist - Alka Joshi: Be still my heart - I loved this book. I read this right after my Indian wedding and was transported to the world of a woman in 1940s Jaipur, India who made her living by doing Henna and essentially serving as a medicine woman after fleeing her village and abusive husband. This story goes over her tenuous journey and the games she tries to play to ameliorate her status, reach her dreams, and escape from her past. Could not recommend this more - I felt so close to my Nani (grandmother) while reading it and got a glimpse at the world she grew up in (or at least, near). There will certainly be a blog post about this book later as well.

My Nani, who grew up in Jaipur in the 1940s and in this picture is helping me get my wedding bangles on, which is quite the process.

• Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women’s Anger - Rebecca Traister: A refreshing and interesting history on the transformative nature of female anger and how it has often served as the impetus for societal change. I noticed myself raising my fist in solidarity in the air several times as I listened to the book and felt extremely empowered to be a woman. Given the recent climate, that was a much needed feeling.

• Wild Mercy - Mirabai Starr: My mom and Aunt Preeta have their Kindle accounts linked so that we all have access to each other’s books, and occasionally I randomly pick one of my Aunt’s books and am totally mindblown - this book is the epitome of that phenomenon. This book goes over the wisdom of the feminine throughout histories and cultures, highlighting key figures who have illuminated these findings and exploring different facets of feminine mysticism. While Good and Mad shows the history of women transforming our anger into power, this book focuses on using our inner feminine power and letting it ripple out to transform humanity at large. This book may not be for everyone, but I really connected with it on a soul level.

Other books I loved:

• Born a Crime - Trevor Noah

• Girl, Woman, Other - Bernardine Evaristo

• Testaments - Margaret Atwood

• Brave New Medicine - Cynthia Li

• What the Wind Knows - Amy Harmon

• The Witches are Coming - Lindy West

• Untamed - Glennon Doyle

• The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires - Grady Hendrix

• So You Want to Talk About Race? - Ijeoma Oluo

• A Curse so Dark and Lonely - Brigid Kemmerer

• Their Eyes Were Watching God - Zora Neale Hurston

• The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde

• The Vanishing Half - Brit Bennet

• Magic Lessons - Alice Hoffman

Have you read any of these? If not, they come extremely highly recommended.

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2. The 2021 Reading List

Matt and I spent some time today and over the last few weeks scouring through our “Want to Read” lists and deciding how we categorize our reading goals next year. We have the same categories, but different numbers in each. Below is mine: 

Alexandra’s 2021 Reading List: 

2 Classics:

• Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy

• The Age of Innocence - Edith Wharton

9 Social Issue Books:

• Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents - Isabel Wilkerson

• White Feminism: From the Suffragettes to Influencers and Who They Leave Behind - Koa Beck

• What We Don't Talk About When We Talk About Fat - Aubrey Gordon

• To the End of June: The Intimate Life of American Foster Care - Cris Beam

• Mediocre: The Dangerous Legacy of White Male America - Ijeoma Oluo

• After the Last Border: Two Families and the Story of Refuge in America - Jessica Goudeau

• Women, Race, & Class - Angela Y. Davis

• Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century - Alice Wong

• Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption - Bryan Stevenson

4 Historical and/or Biographical Books:

• The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women and Women to Medicine - Janice P. Nimura

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - Rebecca Skloot

• His Truth Is Marching on: John Lewis and the Power of Hope - Jon Meacham

• Fight of the Century: Writers Reflect on 100 Years of Landmark ACLU Cases - Michael Chabon

4 Memoirs: 

• A Promised Land - Barack Obama

• I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban - Malala Yousafzai

• My Own Words - Ruth Bader Ginsburg

• Reason for Hope: A Spiritual Journey - Jane Goodall

2 European Reads:

• The Nightingale - Kristin Hannah

• The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz - Erik Larson

4 “Soul” Books:

• The Girl and the Goddess: Stories and Poems of Divine Wisdom - Nikita Gill

• Siddhartha - Hermann Hesse

• The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom - Miguel Ruiz

• The Conscious Activist: Where Activism Meets Mysticism - James O'Dea

5 Miscellaneous Books:

• Yellow Wife - Sadeqa Johnson

• Dancing in the Mosque: An Afghan Mother's Letter to Her Son - Homeira Qaderi

• The Opium Prince - Jasmine Aimaq

• The Midnight Library - Matt Haig

• Ring Shout - P. Djèlí Clark

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Have you read any of these? Are you planning to read any of these? What were some of your favorite books of 2020? What are you looking forward to reading in the new year?

See you in the new year (finally),

Alexandra

Getting Series-ous About Books

When we talk about books, we always talk about the elements of the story, like the plot or character development. But some of my favorite books have absolutely nothing to do with the story itself, but rather, the journey I went on while reading it or the circumstances in which I read it. The quintessential example of a book that I will forever hold dear because of the experience in reading it, and certainly not the story itself, is Twilight by Stephenie Meyer (NO SHAME). When I was a fresh 18 year old at Northwestern University, I heard of this vampire movie coming out with hot Cedric Diggory and I immediately knew I would convince friends to come with me. Though I was hovering at the borderline age of it being acceptable for me to fangirl over it (admittedly I was definitely over that threshold), I secretly loved it and could not wait to see what would transpire for these ridiculously good looking, baseball playing, creepily adopted vampire family and the outrageously ordinary girl they were all obsessed with. Luckily, when I went home for Christmas, my brilliant sister with amazing taste caved to my desires and gave me two things: 1) an alarming amount of flannel shirts per my request and 2) the first two books of the Twilight series. In that moment, our eyes locked, our hands shook with anticipation, and we immediately knew what we needed to do. We sat in the hot tub, ignored our families, and finished the two books with a desperate urgency in the next two days, prompting us to immediately buy the rest of the series and finish them in the same manner.

“You better hold on tight spider monkey. - Edward Cullen”

A Court of Thorns and Roses

Sarah J. Maas

Don’t even act like this cover didn’t give you life when it came out

So okay, is the Twilight series a work of literary genius? Absolutely not. But was reading it and the whole experience one of my favorite memories with my sister? 1000% yes. As I sat and thought about how I could tie these experiential books together, I recognized that the deepest experiences I have with books occur when I’m reading series, and other than the notable exception of my favorite series (Harry Potter), they are series with a strong, female protagonist. As I just stated, Harry Potter will always be my favorite books of all time - I grew up with Harry, saw who I wanted and could be in Hermione (though I was more Fred and George), and became entranced with a world of magic that I felt destined to be a part of. But as I will always love Harry Potter and that magical world with my entire heart and soul, it deserves an entire blog entry to itself (one that acknowledges the recent problematic and highly disappointing stances of the author as well). So instead, this post is about the series that I have adored since Harry fostered my love for books.

Literally so obsessed with HP that it was our wedding cake topper

1. The Lunar Chronicles:

The Lunar Chronicles - Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, Winter - Click the names of the titles for the Goodreads account, but purchase from a local bookshop if you can :)

This series is comprised of four different books by the incredible Marissa Meyer. They are dystopian reimaginings of Cinderella (Cinder), Little Red Riding Hood (Scarlet), Rapunzel (Cress), and Snow White (Winter), though only the title characters are taken from the traditional stories and not the plots themselves. The ultimate goal is overthrow the tyrant Queen (shocker), but the ways in which the plots between the characters weave and the character development throughout is SO much fun. I personally thought that the first two books were alright, but by the time I got to the 3rd and 4th, I was so invested in the outcome and excited about the journey that it inevitably became one of my favorite reads, and one I certainly intend on rereading someday. The best part of this series is that there are really four female protagonists throughout (arguably five), so if one or two bore you (which they will), it does not affect the entire impression of the series. The author of this series is also just an incredible storyteller. She did a reimagining of the queen of hearts from Alice in Wonderland (Heartless) and another series of modern-day superheroes a la “The Boys” from Amazon Prime (Renegades - see below), so all in all, I do highly recommend this series as a fun, enjoyable read (or audiobook - I’ve heard it’s a great series to listen to as well).

2. Caraval:

Caraval, Legendary, Finale

In case it is not clear from the stories mentioned above, I love my sister, so naturally, I was easily sucked into a story of two sisters trying to escape their awful father by entering a dangerous game of intrigue and magic as their only hope of freedom. The game is called “Caraval,” and it is run by the mysterious Legend, who is constantly changing the rules of the game, twisting everything upside down, and making everyone question whether they are in a game or real life. I do not want to reveal the plot, but the books are action-packed and the characters become so developed and real, despite being painted in a caricature-esque way. This series is not super long, but it is very entertaining and easy to breeze through.

3. Charlotte Holmes Series:

Charlotte Holmes Series - A Study in Charlotte, The Last of August, The Case for Jamie, A Question of Holmes

This book series by Brittany Cavallaro was a blast to read. I started reading this when Matt and I started dating back in 2014, and had to wait over the years for all four installments to come out. The second a book would come out, I would immediately devour it. In a fiction class that I took at Northwestern, we had to read Dracula, Frankenstein, The Maltese Falcon, and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. If you’re saying to yourself, “Wow that sounds like a phenomenal class,” you are correct. All of these books are among some of my favorites, but I was absolutely taken by Sherlock Holmes. Pop culture is littered with references and characters paying homage to Sherlock Holmes and his ability to dissect a person and mysteries based on a myriad of seemingly disconnected observations. From the Robert Downey movies, I assumed he was an all around detective, equipped with deductive reasoning AND a killer right hook, but in the books, he is just purely cerebral and observant. While he observes the world, Watson observes him, and thus the legendary stories come to light. In this series, Charlotte Holmes is the great-great-great granddaughter of Sherlock, and Jamie Watson is the great-great-great grandson of Watson. They are inevitably drawn towards each other and are ultimately forced to solve crimes in a modern way that have deadly consequences. In terms of remakes or spinoffs of Sherlock Holmes, this one is incredible. I loved the female Sherlock. I loved this series.

4. A Court of Thorns and Roses:

A Court of Thorns and Roses, A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin

Finally, I saved the best for last. I truly thought that I would never find a set of books that impacted me as much as Harry Potter, but this series is just a hair below it for me and it is a series I think about so frequently. I had a friend that I used to exchange book recommendations with when I was going through this phase of dark, dystopian retellings of fairytales. We both noticed, however, that the men in these stories are always so dominant, and while the women are strong in their own right, they always cave to some extent and it really ruins the impact of the novel. And then I read this series by Sarah J. Maas and it was like the literary gods above heard all my prayers. The first book followed the typical format that I had been reading, and while I still enjoyed it, I was not emotionally prepared for how truly incredible the 2nd and 3rd books were. The romantic connection that developed came secondary to Feyre, the protagonist’s, self-healing and resolution of trauma. When she finally healed and found herself, an incredible romantic connection developed. This is so important, because for the first time, the female finds herself and then finds the person worthy of her, not the stereotypical, “she finds a man who helps her find herself and becomes the version he wants her to be.” On top of this, the plot is incredible, the characters around her are all so captivating with rich back stories, and the battle scenes and magic are spectacular. This series is truly the best I have read in the last ten years. In fact, Matt got me the hard copies as a wedding present because they meant so much to me, and absolutely EVERY person that I have recommended it to that has actually read it, has felt the exact same way. This is it folks - this is actual literary perfection and I am HERE FOR IT. 

Other Honorable Mentions: 

One of my alltim

• Hunger Games (first two books were amazing, but if you’ve seen the movies, you know they split the worst book into two movies, which was asinine)

• Divergent (the books are far superior to the movies, though they cast Four perfectly, and it is definitely unique in terms of typical dystopian young adult (YA) novels)

• Crazy Rich Asians (super fun series and would be a great vacation read; there were many times I laughed out loud, and even though the movie was fun, the books are definitely better)

• The Folk of the Air (excellent as far as YA series go - there is violence, romance, beautiful world making and language, etc. If you like fantasy and female protagonists, I can’t imagine you’d be disappointed in this)

• Red Queen (similar to The Folk of the Air and even Sarah J. Maas’ type of books, but it left less of an impression on me - still very good and dystopian, but it was not my absolute favorite)

• Renegades (as mentioned above in the Lunar Chronicles, Marissa Meyer is a writer whose work I always enjoy. This series gets better and better as it goes on, which is quite a feat for most series, and it’s a fun, more light-hearted, albeit still contentious, version of “The Boys” on Amazon. If you have not watched that and have a dark and sick sense of humor, you are missing out - it is phenomenal.)

• Throne of Glass (this is definitely a commitment, because it is 7 long books. While they start in a fun, typically YA sort of way, the character development over time is incredible and the story goes deeper and deeper. The last book was an absolute perfect ending, but again, this is definitely a commitment, though another stunner by Sarah J. Maas).

• The Selection (okay, to be honest, I debated putting this here because it’s a YA series that is basically like reading a season of “The Bachelor.” Like Twilight, it is not high quality literature, but damn it was a fun read and I read it so fast. To be fair, this was read at the beginning of my reading fervor and it has been years - I do not know if it still stands the test of time. If someone reads it, please let me know if it’s worth the reread).'

So yeah, that was long, but if you’re still with me, your “Want to Read” list on Goodreads is probably overflowing. But tell me, what series have stayed with you? Have you read any of these?

Until next time,

Alexandra

To Read or Not To Read

To Read or Not To Read

“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”

Maya Angelou

As Germany enters our second lockdown for the month of November (probably going to be extended), I have been trying to figure out productive and fulfilling ways to spend my time. Of course work is always busy between teaching and research, but without wedding planning, traveling, and the ability to go to the gym, I have been feeling a bit exposed and vulnerable. This year has been an emotional roller coaster - we were still able to travel a decent amount (I still need to write about Paris and Venice), but COVID has abruptly stopped our ability to explore a few different times now. We were still able to go home and celebrate our wedding with friends and family, which was ultimately the most incredible and special weekend of our lives, but we still cannot help but feel guilty. While no one got sick because of the extensive safety measures and precautions we took, we cannot enjoy our wedding fully because at the end of the day, we know that it still came down to us being tremendously lucky and to those close to us being extra careful. I wake up every day feeling so much gratitude, but with an undercurrent of guilt, feeling so much at peace with my husband, but so anxious with the world. But with the acute stresses of wedding planning, trying to get home, and endless to-do lists at bay for now, my soul has been laid bare, and this next quarantine is about figuring out what fills me and not succumbing to watching 20 random seasons on Netflix.

So you know, with that depressing background behind us, I know of three different activities that bring me Kondo-Like joy: reading, writing, and photography. The latter two are luckily accomplished through working on the blog, but not being able to travel presented quite a conundrum. While it is still my ultimate dream to write “the next great American novel,” whatever that is, the goal seemed a bit daunting while still working on my PhD (in STEM, so not at all related). Still, I fill a lot of my free time getting lost in the words and worlds of brilliant writers. The only way I can still travel is through books. The only way I can still meet interesting people with whom I can have stimulating conversations over a cup of coffee is through books. And most importantly, the only way I can assert my superiority over my genius sister (who works all the time and is an actual mom, not just a cat mom), is through reading SO many more books than she does (don’t worry, Alyssa, mom still loves you more). All jokes aside, I have been a voracious reader for as long as I can remember and I take great pride and joy in it.

I feel as if many of you have discovered (or rediscovered) a love for reading during quarantine. I myself have joined a few different book clubs and gotten into long, riveting discussions over books and our personal interpretations of them, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the entire experience. I have also been frequently asked about recommendations and my reviews over certain books. So with all of this in mind, I decided to write about books on the blog (because I already paid for the domain for another year, and damnit, I’m going to get my money’s worth). I will sometimes review specific books, and I will certainly ALWAYS take recommendations, but what I have in mind for this blog is not exactly a stereotypical “1 book - 1 review” format. As I read, I piece together connections between books and think about what they collectively add to the world, how they shape my personal experiences, and how my personal experiences shape them. If this is done correctly (which is really hit or miss at this point), this will be more of an ode to books and the impact they have.

But before we get into specific books and collections, I want to respond to the question I get constantly, which is some derivative of, “how do you have so much time to read?” And the truth is, we all have time to read - how many books a year do you think you would read if you spent less time on social media or Netflix? And I say this with absolutely ZERO judgment, because I have somehow managed to still be excessive with both, but my point is that you do have time. With that said, here is a list with some serious game changers to get you to read (and it works, because I’ve read 125 books this year so far).

1. Get a Goodreads account. I know, we all have feelings about Amazon, but Goodreads is the best way to keep yourself accountable for books you’ve read and want to read. You can set reading goals, interact with the authors, be in online book communities, read other people’s reviews, find new books to read, etc. The possibilities are endless and if you only do this one thing, assuming you check it with somewhat regularity, you will read more. My Goodreads Account

2. Get a library card. Even if you don’t physically go to the library a lot, you can still have access to so many e-books and audiobooks on your phone through the “Libby” or “Overdrive” apps. I am constantly checking out both types of books from my “Want to Read” shelf on Goodreads. While I am all for supporting authors and buying books, let’s be real, they are not all gems. The library is free and it is awesome. Make use of it.

3. Make a reading goals list each year. At the beginning of each year, make a list of some of the books you definitely want to read in the year. Break it up into categories and genres so that you read a wide variety. If you are ridiculously competitive with yourself like I am, you will have no problem reading these books as long as your goal is reasonable to your reading level. I finished my 2020 list last week and it is a GREAT feeling. Note: I do not only read books on this list because sometimes I like trashy chick-lit and I will not apologize for it. Reading is supposed to be pleasurable - read what you like! But also, read what will help you grow and understand others. Matt made a list for the first time this year and he only has 2 books left! He has increased his reading by ~400% this year compared to previous years. Finding the “next great book” can be stressful and hinder you from reading, so making a list and using Goodreads will help with both. See my list and my breakdown of categories at the end of the blog.

4. Read more than one book at a time. Matt is constantly making fun of me for reading ~6 books at a time, but it has a purpose. Per my reading list (see previous point), I read 1-2 nonfiction books at a time, but I cannot devour these books like I do fiction. I read a chapter of a non-fiction book every day, so that after a few weeks I have finished the book, but it has not stalled me from reading other things I enjoy. I also read 2-3 fiction books at any given time on my phone or kindle. So many people feel strongly about reading physical books, and I get that, but part of the reason I read so much is because I constantly have my reading with me. If you don’t read on your phone, try putting one book on there and see how you like it - it will take time to adjust, but the convenience is amazing. I also listen to audiobooks courtesy of the Libby app! Between all these methods, I spend a lot of time reading, but it’s time that is sort of wasted anyway on commutes, long walks, workouts, etc.

This is obviously not a comprehensive list, but it is definitely a good start. I am always here to talk books - you can comment on this page or on my instagram (alexandra.mbk). Honestly, at the end of the day, it may only be my mom and Nana and Nani who end up reading this blog, but just writing it is what is important to me. Reading has profoundly shaped who I am as a person and the way I view the world. I hope it does the same for you. I hope we can share that. Now, more than ever, I hope it helps connect us all.

Thanks for reading,

Alexandra

2020 Reading Goals: 

4 Classics:

• To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee

• Little Women - Louisa May Alcott

• A Tale of Two Cities - Charles Dickens

• Persuasion - Jane Austen

10 Social Issue Books:

• Dreams from my Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance - Barack Obama

• No Visible Bruises: What We Don’t Know About Domestic Violence Can Kill Us - Rachel Louise Snyder

• The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World - Melinda Gates

• Their Eyes Were Watching God - Zora Neale Hurston

• The Bluest Eye - Toni Morrison

• She Said: Breaking the Sexual Harassment Story that Helped Ignite a Movement - Jodi Kantor

• Parkland: Birth of a Movement - Dave Cullen

• How to be an Anti-Racist - Ibram X. Kendi

• The American Soul: Rediscovering the Wisdom of the Founders - Jacob Needleman

• The Color Purple - Alice Walker

3 Historical and/or Biographical Books:

• Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela

• The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women - Kate Moore

• Midnight in Chernobyl: The Untold Story of the World’s Greatest Nuclear Disaster - Adam Higginbotham

3 European Reads:

• All the Light We Cannot See - Anthony Doerr

• The Picture of Dorian Grey - Oscar Wilde

• The Huntress - Kate Quinn

3 “Soul” Books:

• Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear - Elizabeth Gilbert

• The Prophet - Khalil Gibran

• The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World - Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu

6 Miscellaneous Books:

• Go Set a Watchman - Harper Lee

• 1984 - George Orwell

• A Thousand Splendid Suns - Khaled Housseini

• The Testaments - Margaret Atwood

• American Spy - Lauren Wilkinson

• Girl, Woman, Other - Bernardine Evaristo