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sweetearlgrey's reviews
148 reviews
Mouth Full of Blood: Essays, Speeches, Meditations by Toni Morrison
The structure of the book, however, could be improved. I found myself wishing for a layout that placed the origin of each essay either below its title or at its conclusion. Moreover, encountering repeated paragraphs across chapters was a jarring experience. While this might have been a deliberate stylistic choice to emphasize certain points, it often led to a sense of disruption rather than reinforcement.
Morrison’s voice offers wisdom that seems to echo through time. Yet, I couldn’t help but feel that the book’s presentation (which was likely not her own doing) could have been more thoughtfully aligned with the elegance and fluidity of Morrison’s writing.
3.75
Reading Toni Morrison’s Mouth Full of Blood was like attending a master class in literature, sociology, and life. Keeping up with her thoughts often felt like a rewarding intellectual pursuit; though she does write with tremendous clarity.
The structure of the book, however, could be improved. I found myself wishing for a layout that placed the origin of each essay either below its title or at its conclusion. Moreover, encountering repeated paragraphs across chapters was a jarring experience. While this might have been a deliberate stylistic choice to emphasize certain points, it often led to a sense of disruption rather than reinforcement.
Morrison’s voice offers wisdom that seems to echo through time. Yet, I couldn’t help but feel that the book’s presentation (which was likely not her own doing) could have been more thoughtfully aligned with the elegance and fluidity of Morrison’s writing.
Political Tribes: Group Instinct and the Fate of Nations by Amy Chua
The central idea is certainly compelling, but the execution leaves something to be desired. While Chua successfully identifies the problems at hand, she falls short in offering concrete solutions. Her suggestion that everyone should break free from groupthink and be kinder to each other, while noble, is overly simplistic. Real-world issues of tribalism and ethnocentrism are complex and deeply rooted, requiring more than just a change in individual attitudes.
I would say that it's a worthwhile read for those interested in understanding the role of tribalism in politics, particularly in the context of the USA. However, its lack of practical solutions and heavy focus on the USA may limit its appeal for a global audience.
3.0
Political Tribes is a thought-provoking exploration of the power of ethnocentrism, tribalism, and group identity in shaping the world’s political landscape. Chua acknowledges that the USA’s ignorance and nonchalant attitude towards these forces have often led to failures in their foreign interventions (which for me always poses the question...why intervene in the first place?).
However, the book is decidedly USA-centric, which may not appeal to all readers. As an outsider looking in, I've always been privy to the tribalism of US politics, and the ignorance behind the country's foreign policy failures. There wasn't anything eye-opening about this book.
The central idea is certainly compelling, but the execution leaves something to be desired. While Chua successfully identifies the problems at hand, she falls short in offering concrete solutions. Her suggestion that everyone should break free from groupthink and be kinder to each other, while noble, is overly simplistic. Real-world issues of tribalism and ethnocentrism are complex and deeply rooted, requiring more than just a change in individual attitudes.
I would say that it's a worthwhile read for those interested in understanding the role of tribalism in politics, particularly in the context of the USA. However, its lack of practical solutions and heavy focus on the USA may limit its appeal for a global audience.
Rememberings by Sinéad O'Connor
It’s more than a memoir; it’s a testament to human strength. Sinéad’s courage in sharing her story is a gift to us all. Whether you’re a fan of her music or simply appreciate raw, unfiltered storytelling, this memoir will impact you. Rest in peace, Sinéad.
Rememberings is an honest exploration of Sinead's life, struggles, and triumphs. In audiobook form, it becomes an even more immersive experience, with Sinéad herself narrating her story. From the very first words, her voice draws you in—a mix of vulnerability, strength, and authenticity. Sinéad bares her soul, sharing her feelings, mental health battles, and the highs and lows of fame.
It’s more than a memoir; it’s a testament to human strength. Sinéad’s courage in sharing her story is a gift to us all. Whether you’re a fan of her music or simply appreciate raw, unfiltered storytelling, this memoir will impact you. Rest in peace, Sinéad.
Networking for People Who Hate Networking, Second Edition: A Field Guide for Introverts, the Overwhelmed, and the Underconnected by Devora Zack
1.75
Meh. I picked this up at the library because of the penguins and thought, why not? I'm an introvert, and the word 'networking' makes my skin crawl, so I figured it would be worthwhile. However, there is practically nothing of value here. If you have done any self-reflection at all, you will have already figured out the advice given here. If you need to network, you need to network. Know your limits, prioritise your energy, and try to see people as people, not just as objects you're trying to 'get' something from.
Nothing to Envy: Real Lives in North Korea by Barbara Demick
5.0
I don't think I'll ever forget the contents of this book. Demnick traces North Korea's tumultuous history, from the Korean War to the present day, painting a vivid picture of a nation trapped in a time warp. Through six compelling narratives, we meet ordinary people who dared to defy the regime. Mi-ran, a young factory worker; Dr. Kim, a physician; and Jun-sang, a loyal party member – their lives intersect, revealing the human cost of survival. Each defector’s journey is a testament to resilience and hope.
As I turned the pages, I felt their fear, hunger, and longing. The famines, described with gut-wrenching detail, are haunting. Descriptions of surveillance, the constant fear of betrayal are simply terrifying. Surprisingly, freedom doesn’t always bring solace. Many defectors struggle in the bustling streets of Seoul, alienated by a society that moves too fast. The longing for home, even a home under oppression – tugs at their hearts. It’s a paradox that challenges our assumptions. Despite the horrors, there’s hope. The defectors’ resilience, their small acts of rebellion, and their dreams of reunification, some glimmers of humanity shine through. What a book, and what a terrible regime. I want to live to see the day when all North Koreans are free.
As I turned the pages, I felt their fear, hunger, and longing. The famines, described with gut-wrenching detail, are haunting. Descriptions of surveillance, the constant fear of betrayal are simply terrifying. Surprisingly, freedom doesn’t always bring solace. Many defectors struggle in the bustling streets of Seoul, alienated by a society that moves too fast. The longing for home, even a home under oppression – tugs at their hearts. It’s a paradox that challenges our assumptions. Despite the horrors, there’s hope. The defectors’ resilience, their small acts of rebellion, and their dreams of reunification, some glimmers of humanity shine through. What a book, and what a terrible regime. I want to live to see the day when all North Koreans are free.
Light on Yoga: The Definitive Guide to Yoga Practice by B.K.S. Iyengar
5.0
An incredible yoga manual for life. Everything is very clear and thorough. I appreciate being able to understand not just how to perform the asanas, but also why I'm doing them. The introductory section also provides an excellent explanation of the spiritual aspects of yoga - something that the Westernised version often shies away from.
When I first got this book from the library, it seemed to be more of a yoga encyclopaedia (which it is), but there is also a section at the back detailing a programme you can follow as you progress, as well as lists of asanas that help relieve various ailments. I loved this book so much that I went out and bought a copy. It now sits near my yoga mat where I do my prescribed asanas every night. I have a feeling this book is going to be well loved in my home :)
When I first got this book from the library, it seemed to be more of a yoga encyclopaedia (which it is), but there is also a section at the back detailing a programme you can follow as you progress, as well as lists of asanas that help relieve various ailments. I loved this book so much that I went out and bought a copy. It now sits near my yoga mat where I do my prescribed asanas every night. I have a feeling this book is going to be well loved in my home :)
Salvador Dali by Confidential Concepts
Picked this up for a quick read while at the library. Dalí was incredibly insufferable and I'm glad the book captures that. It includes a decent collection of his works, though none of it completely enthralled me.
Red Famine: Stalin's War on Ukraine by Anne Applebaum, Antero Helasvuo
4.0
“Red Famine” meticulously examines the tragic events of the Holodomor—a state-imposed famine in Soviet Ukraine during the early 1930s. While not an easy read, it is essential. Anne Applebaum’s expertise certainly shines through, especially given the current context of Putin’s historical distortions. Seeking truth in such uncertain times remains important.
The Complete Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
4.5
"Persepolis" is poignant, intelligent, and sensitive. It acquaints readers with the complex history of Iran while seamlessly weaving through a coming-of-age narrative and discussions of cultural identity. Marjane is an incredibly strong person.
Novelist as a Vocation by Haruki Murakami
3.5
I appreciated this mostly because it felt like Murakami and I have a similar way of thinking and approaching things. He's more set in his ways, which makes sense since he's older, but I still found a lot of what he said relatable.
The book provides a closer look into his writing process and how he got into writing in the first place. His story of becoming a novelist is pretty unusual, which just goes to show how unexpected life can be. Even Murakami admits that his path is unique, so he doesn't really offer a lot of advice on how to become a writer.
I think the main reason I enjoyed this book is because I enjoy Murakami. If you're not already a fan, there might not be a whole lot here for you.
The book provides a closer look into his writing process and how he got into writing in the first place. His story of becoming a novelist is pretty unusual, which just goes to show how unexpected life can be. Even Murakami admits that his path is unique, so he doesn't really offer a lot of advice on how to become a writer.
I think the main reason I enjoyed this book is because I enjoy Murakami. If you're not already a fan, there might not be a whole lot here for you.