russellreitsema's reviews
107 reviews

The Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet by John Green

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5.0

Inspirational. Humorous. Topical. Necessary. This collection of essays touched me in a lot of ways. from Smallpox to Kentucky bluegrass and a whole lot in-between, Green takes us on a journey into his life and how he sees and reacts to the world. His refreshingly anxiety-ridden outlook on life isn't quite relatable for me but it is nonetheless understandable. I wish there was more. 
High Fidelity by Nick Hornby

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3.0

This book took me for a trip! I was originally not enjoying it at all, mostly because I just don't like music all that much and the guy owns a record store. the majority of the book is discussing music. But then I realized what the second layer of this really is. An intrinsic look into the life of the everyday man, constantly doubting and often horny. 
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

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4.0

What an intense read. I've heard about this story for many years and am glad I picked it up and was witness to the mental anguish poured out onto these pages. it felt like the pain was tangible enough to reach out and grab onto. Definitely a recomend to anyone. 
The Dark Forest by Cixin Liu

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3.0

I actually preferred this one to the first book! I felt the story was interesting and kept me enraptured and of course, the most imaginative book I've read in ages! 
How to Pronounce Knife by Souvankham Thammavongsa

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3.0

moving around times, humorous at others. this is a short read that packs a punch. definitely recomend for any short story fans or immigrant story lovers. 
Dust by Hugh Howey

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3.25

A predictable ending but an enjoyable journey to get there. 
Custodians of Wonder: Ancient Customs, Profound Traditions, and the Last People Keeping Them Alive by Eliot Stein

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4.0

Probably my favorite Non-fiction so far this year. I devoured this curious look into some of the rarest and most interesting pastimes and cultures that are on the brink of extinction. From particular pastas to braided bridges and trees with their own postal code, the author portrays the legacy of these people and their ways of life in a way that makes me want to hold them dearly and protect these cultural treasures. Truly a look at the human pursuit. 
The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki

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3.0

A fun and lighthearted romp with laid back cat gods, astrological fortune telling, and quirky meetcutes. great palette cleanser. 
Wise Blood by Flannery O'Connor

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2.75

An interesting book that had me guessing where it was going next. The religious undertones and the strangely written characters kept me interested. 
Vi by Kim Thúy

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3.0

An interesting look at life and love. I'll be taking a deeper look at this author.