bluepoohreads22's reviews
209 reviews

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh

emotional mysterious

3.0

Cracked: Why Psychiatry is Doing More Harm Than Good by James Davies

informative

3.0

This book was published in 2014. Why is this significant? Because since its release, there have been significant advancements in both psychiatric research and treatment. Some of the book’s arguments, therefore, may no longer be as relevant or applicable today.

As a psychiatrist, I found it particularly challenging to read this book after spending years in medical school, only to encounter a psychotherapist claiming that psychiatry is doing more harm than good. Naturally, I was intrigued when I first picked up this book.

At first, I found the book’s premise engaging, and some of the arguments were indeed thought-provoking. For instance, the criticism of classifying grief as a disorder struck a chord with me, especially since grief is not included as a mental health disorder in the latest DSM. That point felt valid, and I found myself agreeing with it.

The author also delves into the influence of capitalism on the psychiatric field, particularly focusing on the relationship between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers. He claims that the close ties between the two have led to a system where medication is often over-prescribed for profit. While I understand his concerns, I feel that this argument is somewhat overstated. As clinicians, we adhere to a strict ethical code, and our prescribing practices are guided by patient needs rather than any potential financial incentive. At times, it seemed like the author was trying to paint the entire field with a negative brush, as though every clinician were compromised by corporate interests. His perspective, while not entirely ungrounded, feels a bit far-fetched at times.

One of the more troubling aspects of this book is the author’s approach to research and evidence. It often seemed like he had cherry-picked data to support his arguments, sometimes distorting or oversimplifying complex issues. For instance, his discussion on epigenetics seemed flawed. Whether the author misunderstood the science behind it or is simply dismissing the established research in favor of his own views, I found his treatment of this topic particularly problematic. It left me questioning whether the author was genuinely informed or if he believed that only his viewpoint was valid.

What I find most difficult to forgive, however, is his example of a schizophrenia case that was supposedly "cured" by reading a book and adopting a positive mindset. This claim is not only misleading but dangerously irresponsible. Schizophrenia is a complex, lifelong condition that requires proper medical intervention, and the author’s portrayal of a quick fix based on self-help advice is not just inaccurate—it borders on harmful. At times, I couldn’t help but wonder if the author was perhaps on some crack while writing this book. 

Additionally, the overall tone of the book struck me as dismissive, particularly towards individuals suffering from mental health issues. While the author offers his critiques, he seems to neglect the real, lived experiences of those dealing with mental health conditions. His approach comes across as lacking empathy, which is deeply concerning for a book that aims to challenge the psychiatric establishment.

In conclusion, while this book is an entertaining

read with some thought-provoking points, I would caution readers to approach its conclusions with skepticism. The arguments presented may be compelling in some areas, but they require careful consideration and should be viewed in the context of a rapidly changing field. If you are a patient or someone seeking help for mental health issues, I recommend consulting with healthcare professionals and making decisions based on a thorough, well-rounded understanding of your options.

Heart of the Sun Warrior by Sue Lynn Tan

adventurous emotional medium-paced

3.0

I absolutely loved the first book in this duology—it was a solid five-star read for me. I grabbed this book as soon as it was released, but, true to my nature, only got around to reading it now. 🤭 Typical me.

This book picks up with Xingyin after she has rescued her mother, only to be thrust back into danger when strange magic is discovered, and the emperor’s power continues to grow. Xingyin flees to the Immortal Realm, facing shifting alliances, battling old grudges, and confronting an impending terror. Along the way, she makes difficult sacrifices to protect the worlds she loves. The question is: Will she succeed, or will she perish in the process?

First off, I have to mention how much I adore the cover. Isn’t she just gorgeous? And those sprayed edges? Absolutely stunning! I could admire this book on my shelf all day long.

I was eager to see what had happened to the main characters, especially since they were so dynamic in the first book.

The plot of this book was definitely intriguing, and it kept me wanting to know more. However, I did find the pacing a bit chaotic at times, which left me feeling confused. While the story was fast-paced, it felt like it was scattered in pieces, jumping from one event to another, which made it hard to fully connect at times.

As for the love triangle, it was bearable and occasionally cute, but more often than not, it was a tad annoying. Like, come on, woman, make up your mind already!

When it comes to the villain, though... he wasn’t particularly memorable. He felt more like background noise—something irritating that you just wish would go away already.

The ending, while satisfying in its own way, felt a bit prolonged. I understand it was probably trying to give that happy ending vibe, which I absolutely appreciate, as happy endings in real life are so rare. However, I couldn’t help but feel like it didn’t give me the resolution I was hoping for. Maybe that’s just me.

Overall, if you’ve read the first book in the series and are thinking about continuing with this one, I’d advise managing your expectations. However, if you’re new to this series, definitely start with the first book and thank me later. That said, I’m still looking forward to reading Tales of the Celestial Kingdom and Immortal.

I Decided to Live as Me: An Illustrated Checklist for How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others So You Can Learn to Love Yourself by Kim Suhyun

hopeful

2.5

‘The person you should respect most is always yourself.’

This book, is a translated Korean self-help book that explores the journey of self-discovery and encourages readers to question their lives and societal norms. The author reveals that the inspiration behind the book came from her own personal reflections, urging readers to embark on a similar path of introspection.

The book is divided into six sections, each organized as checklists that range from examining the self to contemplating broader existential themes. This format gives the book a unique structure, blending practical guidance with philosophical insights.

The read itself was quick for me, as the chapters are short and follow the checklist format, which makes it easy to digest. The inclusion of cute illustrations also added a charming touch, enhancing the overall reading experience and providing visual breaks throughout the text.

That said, I did find some repetition throughout the book. Several concepts were reiterated, which, while reinforcing the message, could feel a bit redundant. Additionally, much of the content may not offer new insights for readers who have already explored the self-help genre. For those new to self-help books, however, this might be a refreshing and accessible introduction.

Overall, this book would be an ideal read for someone just beginning to explore the self-help genre, particularly for younger adults or anyone going through a phase of self-reflection. The combination of accessible language, simple checklists, and endearing illustrations makes it a suitable choice for readers seeking an easy yet thought-provoking read.

Thank you to Times Reads for sending me a review copy.  

Babel by R.F. Kuang

challenging dark emotional informative inspiring tense slow-paced

5.0

Open When...: The Instant Sunday Times No. 1 Bestseller from the author of Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? by Julie Smith

hopeful informative inspiring reflective

4.0

This is my first book by the author, although her previous work has garnered significant attention and praise.

This book serves as a comforting guide during turbulent times, presented in a letter format that feels personal and thoughtful.

The book is divided into three main sections: when it’s hard to be with others, when it’s hard to be with yourself, and when it’s hard to be with your feelings. Each of these sections is further divided into subsections that address specific challenges.

Each chapter is concise, offering a wealth of practical tips for navigating various emotional struggles. I particularly appreciated the inclusion of insightful quotes and key takeaways within each subsection, which helped me better grasp the central themes being presented.

My favorite chapters focused on topics that resonated deeply with me: when it’s hard to ask for help, when everything feels pointless, and when you feel like an imposter.

As a psychiatrist, I found that the strategies presented in this book align closely with what I practice daily. It’s written in a simple, accessible manner, making it easy to digest and understand.

That being said, the concepts discussed in the book are fairly fundamental and might feel too simplistic for those who are already in therapy or have an in-depth understanding of emotional regulation. I believe this book will be especially valuable for readers who are looking for an introductory or slightly intermediate resource for managing their emotions.

While the book lacks some depth, which could leave some readers seeking more detailed exploration, its simplicity makes it a great starting point for those looking to improve emotional well-being.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for practical, easy-to-follow advice. Take your time with it, and implement the methods at your own pace to see the best results.

I would like to extend my gratitude to Times Reads and Penguin USA for the review copy. 

Making Space for Indigenous Feminism by Gina Starblanket

informative reflective

4.0

This book is a vital and impactful read. As someone deeply interested in feminist topics, I find it especially significant that, despite being in 2025, the world continues to treat half of its population as weaker and as existing merely for the male gaze.

The book is structured in essay format. Due to this, I would recommend approaching the book with patience and an open mind, allowing time to absorb the complex themes the authors have so carefully unpacked.

In this book, there are four sections. Section 1 covers home, identity and legacies. Section 2 is on institutions, representation and resistance. Section 3 is on land, relationally and love and section 4 is on decoloniality, movement and futurities. 

Overall, this book is a powerful call for transformation. It challenges readers to critically examine their own biases, assumptions, and roles within the broader social, political, and cultural landscape. This book provides valuable insight into the complex intersections of feminism, colonialism, and Indigenous knowledge systems, offering a framework that is essential for those committed to building a more equitable and inclusive world.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in feminist theory, decolonial thought, or Indigenous rights. It is a timely and enlightening read that will leave a lasting impression and undoubtedly expand the reader’s understanding of the world.

Thank you to Columbia University Press for sending me a review copy.

Hope and uncertainty in health and medicine: imagining the pragmatics of medical potential by Bernhard Hadolt, andrea stöckl

hopeful informative

4.0

I have been reading this book since last year, taking my time with it. I tend to pace myself with non-fiction reads, as the information can often be overwhelming, and this book was no exception.

The book delves into the pragmatics of medical potential within the healthcare industry and is divided into four parts, each addressing a different aspect of hope, uncertainty, and the evolving landscape of medicine.

The first section, Pragmatics of Hope and Uncertainty, challenges conventional medical thinking. It emphasizes the importance of embracing ambiguity in medical ethics and decision-making, while also examining the broader philosophical and moral implications of uncertainty and hope in healthcare. This section encourages readers to reflect on how uncertainty is an inevitable, yet vital, aspect of medical practice.

The second part, The Techno-sphere, explores the influence of new technologies on medical and health-related practices. It looks at how these advancements shape identities and decision-making processes in the realms of diagnostics, therapy, and even self-awareness. The chapter titled ‘Being a Little Bit Pregnant’ particularly resonated with me. It highlighted how technology impacts not only our understanding of health but also how we navigate medical uncertainties.

The third section, Health Management, examines how health policies and practices have evolved in response to technical and sociomaterial changes. It covers critical topics like polypharmacy, antibiotic resistance, and the rise of telemedicine, especially in mental health care. The chapter on solo living and cancer in Denmark was especially enlightening for me, as it provided a fascinating look at how social and cultural factors influence health outcomes.

Finally, the book explores Individual and Socially Distributed Emotions. This part focuses on the affective and social dimensions of healthcare, examining the emotional aspects of medical diagnoses, the experience of chronic conditions, and the societal practices related to health, like the growing popularity of fermented foods and their perceived health benefits. It’s a poignant reminder of how deeply emotions and social contexts shape our experiences with health and illness.

Overall, this book offers a broad yet deep exploration of themes that I found particularly relevant to my practice as a psychiatrist. Hope and uncertainty are integral to what I encounter daily in my practise, and this book has broadened my perspective, helping me keep an open mind in an ever-evolving field. I highly recommend this book to all healthcare professionals, and anyone with a genuine interest in the complexities of medicine. This was an impactful and insightful read that will stay with me for a long time.

Thank you to Columbia University Press for sending me a copy of this book. 

The Daughters of Madurai by Rajasree Variyar

challenging dark emotional inspiring sad

3.0

This is the author’s debut novel, and it introduces us to the stories of Janani and Nila. Janani, a mother in 1992 India, is forced to endure the heartbreaking loss of her daughters due to societal and cultural pressures. Meanwhile, Nila, living in Sydney in 2019, uncovers her family’s painful past while on a trip to Madurai.

When I first read the blurb, I was hesitant to pick up the book, as it delves into some very heavy themes. However, since it was a buddy read, I thought it would be a good choice to discuss with the group later.

The story alternates between two timelines—1990s India and 2019—and allows readers to follow the main characters as they navigate their lives and the difficult decisions they make.

Initially, I found myself captivated by the narrative, particularly in the first half of the book. However, as the story progressed, I felt it became somewhat predictable, and the suspense that had initially drawn me in started to dissipate. Unfortunately, the momentum slowed down considerably for me, and I found myself less engaged.

One of my main critiques was that Nila’s character felt underdeveloped. Despite being a key figure in the story, I struggled to connect with her, and her journey didn’t feel as emotionally resonant as I had hoped. I think her character could have been written with more depth to make her feel more compelling.

As a native Tamil speaker, I also had a minor issue with the use of Tamil terms in the book. For instance, the protagonist refers to her mother-in-law as ‘mamiyar,’ which is the literal translation of mother-in-law. While technically correct, this isn’t how Tamil speakers typically address their mother-in-law. It's a small detail, but a simple check with a native speaker could have helped avoid such awkward phrasing. Additionally, the translation of Tamil words throughout the book felt somewhat lacking in effort. While the glossary at the end was helpful, I felt the use of the language could have been more authentic. I can’t comment much on the Malayalam usage, as I’m not a native speaker, but I did appreciate the glossary.

Apart from that, I was quite interested in learning more about Janani’s mother-in-law. There was a pivotal turning point regarding her backstory that piqued my interest, but it was unfortunately resolved in just one or two sentences, which felt underwhelming. I was expecting more depth and exploration of this character, especially given the weight of the moment. I guess instead of Sanjay’s pov, the addition of her MIL’s pov would have better. 

Overall, this book had a lot of potential and tackled important social issues, including patriarchal practices, the complex relationship between mothers and daughters-in-law, domestic violence, and female infanticide. However, I felt that these themes weren’t explored as deeply as they could have been. The writing, in particular, could have been stronger, and I think the book would have benefitted from a more nuanced exploration of its themes.

Given my mixed feelings about the book, I’m not sure I’d wholeheartedly recommend it. I found myself skimming through parts of the story after the first half, and I think readers should approach the book with caution. While it raises important issues, it ultimately fell short of my expectations.

Into the Uncut Grass by Trevor Noah

hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

4.0

‘The day should start when I wake up….I should not have to wake up to start the day.’

I’ve always been a huge fan of Trevor Noah’s stand-up comedy and his first book, Born a Crime. So when I heard about Into the Uncut Grass, I couldn’t wait to dive in. As a fan of illustrated books, I was especially excited to see this one.

The story follows a young child’s journey into a magical world beyond the safety of home, where they discover important lessons about connection, sharing, and finding peace with the people they love. It’s a beautiful reminder of how even the smallest adventures can teach us big things.

As for the plot, it’s fairly simple, but there’s something charming in its simplicity. And, as someone who hates making her own bed, I couldn’t help but feel seen in certain moments of the story. 🤓

If you’re looking for something easy to read, a visual escape filled with beautiful art, or a thoughtful gift for someone special, this book is perfect. It’s heartwarming and reflective, without being too heavy.

On a personal note, this book was actually a gift from a dear friend of mine, which made it even more meaningful. ❤️

PS: As much as I admire Trevor for writing about kindness and compassion, I have to admit, it’s a bit ironic that he stayed silent on the issue of 🍉. I’m a little disappointed.