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aribabwa's reviews
19 reviews
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
4.0
4.5/5 stars
The modern interpretation of Frankenstein did not give justice to Mary Shelley's original Frankenstein. General assumption of what the story is about differ significantly from the original novel in terms of tone, themes, and characters. Shelley's Frankenstein is not a horror story that leans on the feeling of terror, but instead, a story aimed to express a wide arrange of human emotions (like obsession, loneliness, misery, and grieve) through romanticism. I think the original Frankenstein are better because of its depth and complexity. Add another fact that Mary Shelley was just 18 y.o when she wrote it. Although it is a great book and deserve it's status as a classic, i'm reluctant on giving it a 5 stars because it doesn't reach my criteria of 'absolute favorite'.
The modern interpretation of Frankenstein did not give justice to Mary Shelley's original Frankenstein. General assumption of what the story is about differ significantly from the original novel in terms of tone, themes, and characters. Shelley's Frankenstein is not a horror story that leans on the feeling of terror, but instead, a story aimed to express a wide arrange of human emotions (like obsession, loneliness, misery, and grieve) through romanticism. I think the original Frankenstein are better because of its depth and complexity. Add another fact that Mary Shelley was just 18 y.o when she wrote it. Although it is a great book and deserve it's status as a classic, i'm reluctant on giving it a 5 stars because it doesn't reach my criteria of 'absolute favorite'.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
4.0
4.5/5 stars
A very beautifully-written book. One thing that i like the most about this book is how the ending echoed the beginning of the story, which is a very unique and sentimental way to wrap-up a narrative. The flashbacks that the main character have at the end is a also a nice touch from Harper Lee. It makes you feel like you grow along with the characters in the book. Whilst i do enjoy reading it, i can't help but feeling that this book lack the capacity to show the perspective of the black people's lives that were involved within the story. It felt like Lee gloss over all the suffering, and the emotion that they go through in this book. Instead, it centers around white people and only focus on how the conflict affect them. Sadly, all the black people once again have to be content at being the background characters despite them being the main thing that drove the plot forward.
A very beautifully-written book. One thing that i like the most about this book is how the ending echoed the beginning of the story, which is a very unique and sentimental way to wrap-up a narrative. The flashbacks that the main character have at the end is a also a nice touch from Harper Lee. It makes you feel like you grow along with the characters in the book. Whilst i do enjoy reading it, i can't help but feeling that this book lack the capacity to show the perspective of the black people's lives that were involved within the story. It felt like Lee gloss over all the suffering, and the emotion that they go through in this book. Instead, it centers around white people and only focus on how the conflict affect them. Sadly, all the black people once again have to be content at being the background characters despite them being the main thing that drove the plot forward.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
3.0
3.5/5 stars.
Austen is really talented at crafting words and creating a delightful and engaging romance novels. Her fun and witty way of storytelling makes me *giggle* and *blush*, especially during the affectionate moments. Pride & Prejudice is arguably one of the most iconic blueprint for contemporary romance, even though it was written for more than 200 years ago.
But with that being said, i'm kinda let down by the relatively superficial themes in it. Yes, i know that there is some commentary present throughout the book like the prevailing societal norms, etiquettes, etc. But these things feels too shallow for my liking. It comes across as 'just another rich people problem'. And quiet frankly, I'm more interested in stories that deal with a more darker, sinister and 'serious' themes. Also, one thing that continues to trouble me about this novel is the main character's perception of her family. Somehow, the way Austen portray Elizabeth's feelings and attitude towards her sisters (except Jane) feels very judgmental to me. Because of this, i was so close to labeling her as another 'i wasn't like any other girls' girl.
Austen is really talented at crafting words and creating a delightful and engaging romance novels. Her fun and witty way of storytelling makes me *giggle* and *blush*, especially during the affectionate moments. Pride & Prejudice is arguably one of the most iconic blueprint for contemporary romance, even though it was written for more than 200 years ago.
But with that being said, i'm kinda let down by the relatively superficial themes in it. Yes, i know that there is some commentary present throughout the book like the prevailing societal norms, etiquettes, etc. But these things feels too shallow for my liking. It comes across as 'just another rich people problem'. And quiet frankly, I'm more interested in stories that deal with a more darker, sinister and 'serious' themes. Also, one thing that continues to trouble me about this novel is the main character's perception of her family. Somehow, the way Austen portray Elizabeth's feelings and attitude towards her sisters (except Jane) feels very judgmental to me. Because of this, i was so close to labeling her as another 'i wasn't like any other girls' girl.
Madonna in a Fur Coat by Sabahattin Ali
2.0
2.4/5 stars
One good thing that i can say about this book is the beautifully crafted and hard hitting lines that you'll think about for days. But sadly, the impressive writing style is kinda overshadowed by the inconsistent characterization. The two main characters, Maria Puder and Raif Effendi, undergo shifts in their portrayal that doesn't make sense for me. For example, I initially liked Maria's portrayal as a 'progressive woman', but was disappointed when the narrative took a troubling turn when she started saying some homophobic stuff. As for Raif Effendi, at first he emerges as a misunderstood, shy and timid guy. However, as i get through the book, i ended up hating him. To me he comes across as an egotistical and manipulative male protagonist. There's this one instance of Raif's toxic manipulative behavior that were portrayed as something 'romantic' that continues to bother me.
Warning, spoilers ahead.
Overall, kinda disappointing. Sabahattin Ali gave me an impression that 'Madonna in a Fur Coat' is the kind of book that would break away from the conventional toxic romanticism and offer a more contemporary/progressive approach to a love story. But it ended up idealizing manic-pixie-dream-girl archetype and condones manipulative behaviors, just because it was done 'in the name of love'.
One good thing that i can say about this book is the beautifully crafted and hard hitting lines that you'll think about for days. But sadly, the impressive writing style is kinda overshadowed by the inconsistent characterization. The two main characters, Maria Puder and Raif Effendi, undergo shifts in their portrayal that doesn't make sense for me. For example, I initially liked Maria's portrayal as a 'progressive woman', but was disappointed when the narrative took a troubling turn when she started saying some homophobic stuff. As for Raif Effendi, at first he emerges as a misunderstood, shy and timid guy. However, as i get through the book, i ended up hating him. To me he comes across as an egotistical and manipulative male protagonist. There's this one instance of Raif's toxic manipulative behavior that were portrayed as something 'romantic' that continues to bother me.
Warning, spoilers ahead.
Spoiler
Throughout the book, Maria stated (not once, not twice, but THREE times) that she didn't want Raif to expect her to ever fall in love with him. Despite this, he ignored her wish, and continued putting on the nice guy™ act in an attempt to change her feelings towards him. When Maria finally expressed her desire to end their friendship, Raif planned to shot himself in the head while calling her on the phone in the hopes that she regret rejecting him. He literally played with Maria mental state so that she'll sleep with him.Overall, kinda disappointing. Sabahattin Ali gave me an impression that 'Madonna in a Fur Coat' is the kind of book that would break away from the conventional toxic romanticism and offer a more contemporary/progressive approach to a love story. But it ended up idealizing manic-pixie-dream-girl archetype and condones manipulative behaviors, just because it was done 'in the name of love'.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
2.0
2/5 stars
I thought it was gonna be a lot more 'politically loud'. Turns out it's not. It's basically more about spoilt brats pissing their lives away. A big parade about rich people complaining that their life sucks (bohoo) and then do nothing about it.
While I appreciate morally grey characters in literature, the characters in this book just end up feeling like they don't have any moral standing or even motives. Every single one of them pisses me off, but not in the i-want-them-dead kinda way, for that would imply I still hold some degree of concern. Instead, it's more of an apathy towards their fates. I literally would not care if they jumped off a cliff and die. Also, F. Scott Fitzgerald's cowardice to refrain from explicitly depicting Nick as 'in love' with Gatsby is a missed opportunity in my opinion. It's regrettable because had Nick's love for Gatsby been more overtly portrayed, it could somewhat better explain the dynamics between characters that had previously felt lacking. It could also make the storyline be more interesting to me. Talking about story line, I do have to admit that I had watched the movie years before reading the book. Which means, I already had a pretty good idea of how the plot unfolds, making the plot twist especially less surprising.
But, i would still gave this book a two stars because; First, F. Scott Fitzgerald deserves credit for his critique on capitalism. Second, the book still offers moments of profundity, such as the 'beautiful little fool' line (although we can't be entirely certain if it's his original thought or he stole it from his wife, Zelda). Third, it was short.
I thought it was gonna be a lot more 'politically loud'. Turns out it's not. It's basically more about spoilt brats pissing their lives away. A big parade about rich people complaining that their life sucks (bohoo) and then do nothing about it.
While I appreciate morally grey characters in literature, the characters in this book just end up feeling like they don't have any moral standing or even motives. Every single one of them pisses me off, but not in the i-want-them-dead kinda way, for that would imply I still hold some degree of concern. Instead, it's more of an apathy towards their fates. I literally would not care if they jumped off a cliff and die. Also, F. Scott Fitzgerald's cowardice to refrain from explicitly depicting Nick as 'in love' with Gatsby is a missed opportunity in my opinion. It's regrettable because had Nick's love for Gatsby been more overtly portrayed, it could somewhat better explain the dynamics between characters that had previously felt lacking. It could also make the storyline be more interesting to me. Talking about story line, I do have to admit that I had watched the movie years before reading the book. Which means, I already had a pretty good idea of how the plot unfolds, making the plot twist especially less surprising.
But, i would still gave this book a two stars because; First, F. Scott Fitzgerald deserves credit for his critique on capitalism. Second, the book still offers moments of profundity, such as the 'beautiful little fool' line (although we can't be entirely certain if it's his original thought or he stole it from his wife, Zelda). Third, it was short.
Crime And Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
5.0
4.8/5
i'm mentally exhausted. This book has put me in a constant state of anxiety and existential angst that i can no longer recognize if these feelings were actually mine or is it just the character's psychological turmoil. I'm so mentally tired, i don't think i am able to write a longer review of how good this book is.
i'm mentally exhausted. This book has put me in a constant state of anxiety and existential angst that i can no longer recognize if these feelings were actually mine or is it just the character's psychological turmoil. I'm so mentally tired, i don't think i am able to write a longer review of how good this book is.
Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney
5.0
5/5 stars
*me during my time reading any Sally Rooney book*: "SCREW HER!! WHO THE HELL ENJOY THIS DEPRESSED ASS BOOK!! I HOPE SHE ROTS IN HELL FOR ALL THE PAIN SHE HAVE INFLICTED"
*me on goodreads immediately after i finished reading her book*: "5/5 stars. no notes. best book i've read"
*me during my time reading any Sally Rooney book*: "SCREW HER!! WHO THE HELL ENJOY THIS DEPRESSED ASS BOOK!! I HOPE SHE ROTS IN HELL FOR ALL THE PAIN SHE HAVE INFLICTED"
*me on goodreads immediately after i finished reading her book*: "5/5 stars. no notes. best book i've read"
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
4.0
4.2/5 stars.
Knowing the inevitable fate awaiting Anne and her family, i become depressed whenever she's sad, sad whenever she's happy, and devastated whenever she show any optimism. Then, these emotions took an abrupt turn to sheer horror the moment my eyes meet the word 'concentration camps', 'death march' and 'gas chamber' printed at the afterword section.
I will forever hold dear Anne's wits, authenticity and positive outlook on life. And although this book wasn't a literary masterpiece, it is truly an impactful book that we all should read once in our life.
Knowing the inevitable fate awaiting Anne and her family, i become depressed whenever she's sad, sad whenever she's happy, and devastated whenever she show any optimism. Then, these emotions took an abrupt turn to sheer horror the moment my eyes meet the word 'concentration camps', 'death march' and 'gas chamber' printed at the afterword section.
I will forever hold dear Anne's wits, authenticity and positive outlook on life. And although this book wasn't a literary masterpiece, it is truly an impactful book that we all should read once in our life.
Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall
4.0
3.8/5 stars
As a feminist grappling with the challenge of articulating my thoughts, Mikki Kendall's book has been instrumental in helping me put some of those thoughts into words in a clear and effective way. The first two chapter are especially my favorite. However, this book does have some flaws that i would like to point out. I don't have any issues regarding the ideas, criticisms, and commentary presented in this book. In fact, i'm in agreement with almost everything the author said. My concern lies in the book's writing style.
In the realm of writing, Mikki Kendall's forte appears to be her skill in recounting personal experiences. However, when the narrative transitions from her personal journey to a more data-driven and argumentative approach, the writing, in my view, loses some of its allure. Also, considering my non-American background, the book's extensive focus on (mostly only) American laws, events, and research add an additional layer of detachment for me.
Regardless, i don't want to discourage anyone to read this book, because i do believe Hood Feminism serves as a vital text for feminists to gain awareness of the shortcomings within our movement. This awareness can be instrumental in fostering growth and inclusivity, allowing us to learn from our past and work towards a stronger, more inclusive movement.
As a feminist grappling with the challenge of articulating my thoughts, Mikki Kendall's book has been instrumental in helping me put some of those thoughts into words in a clear and effective way. The first two chapter are especially my favorite. However, this book does have some flaws that i would like to point out. I don't have any issues regarding the ideas, criticisms, and commentary presented in this book. In fact, i'm in agreement with almost everything the author said. My concern lies in the book's writing style.
In the realm of writing, Mikki Kendall's forte appears to be her skill in recounting personal experiences. However, when the narrative transitions from her personal journey to a more data-driven and argumentative approach, the writing, in my view, loses some of its allure. Also, considering my non-American background, the book's extensive focus on (mostly only) American laws, events, and research add an additional layer of detachment for me.
Regardless, i don't want to discourage anyone to read this book, because i do believe Hood Feminism serves as a vital text for feminists to gain awareness of the shortcomings within our movement. This awareness can be instrumental in fostering growth and inclusivity, allowing us to learn from our past and work towards a stronger, more inclusive movement.
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