The Boy in Striped Pajamas
by John Boyne
When I first cracked this book open, I thought to myself "how did I miss this one in elementary school?" Then, I realized it was published in 2006.
Definitely a quick read, and a mildly interesting story. I'll hand it to the author on one point: I thought it would be predictable...and I didn't see the ending coming. But the ending really didn't add much to the book. While a big jaw dropper, it did not change his father's perspective on what he was doing. Heartless, really (or maybe just bad writing).
However, that was the extent to the merit of this book. Bruno, the main character, is 9 years old, but acts much younger. His sister, 12, is similar. The characters are not well developed, except for Bruno's naivety on the whole subject of WWII and the concentration camp where he lives outside the fences. Bruno had no intellectual growth during the whole book. He never corrected his pronunciations of Auschwitz = "Out-With" and the Fuhrer = "the Fury," which surprised me. I kept hoping by the end that he would figure at least something out...
Granted, this is the first historical fiction book I have read from a non-Jewish perspective. It could have been much better.
The author stated that he wrote this book in 2 1/2 days. I think he should have taken more time to carefully plan out the plot, give the characters depth, and add some emotions to the writing. Even for a young adult book, this does not make the cut.
I NEVER say this, but go watch the movie instead.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Book 18 - Uncorked
Uncorked: My Journey Through the Crazy World of Wine
by Marco Pasanella
Delicious!
Even though I have an average (at best) knowledge of wine, I can appreciate the intricacies of wine making and wine drinking. This book was quite an adventure.
First, I have to say, Pasanella included recipes throughout the book! They all looked amazingly delicious. Before I return it to the e-library, I'll have to take some screenshots of the ones that I want to make in the future.
Second, the book was just as much about wine as it was about the journey of setting up a wine shop. Neither are as easy as we think. I appreciated taking this adventure with Pasanella, and dipping into his Italian roots (where he is from is very close to where my great-grandparents were from!). From selecting perfect bottles, to finding sellable wines, to creating his own label, the fun never stopped!
Last, I had a blast reading through this while on vacation. It is perfect book to relax in the sun and read. Nothing was too intense, yet nothing was boring.
Here is the website for Pasanella & Son.
by Marco Pasanella
Delicious!
Even though I have an average (at best) knowledge of wine, I can appreciate the intricacies of wine making and wine drinking. This book was quite an adventure.
First, I have to say, Pasanella included recipes throughout the book! They all looked amazingly delicious. Before I return it to the e-library, I'll have to take some screenshots of the ones that I want to make in the future.
Second, the book was just as much about wine as it was about the journey of setting up a wine shop. Neither are as easy as we think. I appreciated taking this adventure with Pasanella, and dipping into his Italian roots (where he is from is very close to where my great-grandparents were from!). From selecting perfect bottles, to finding sellable wines, to creating his own label, the fun never stopped!
Last, I had a blast reading through this while on vacation. It is perfect book to relax in the sun and read. Nothing was too intense, yet nothing was boring.
Here is the website for Pasanella & Son.
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Book 17 - Always Running
Always Running
By Luis Rodriguez
I'm not sure how to write my personal review of this book, or even where to start. This memoir sticks to my theme of different life perspectives more than any other book I have read this year.
I lived such a different childhood than Luis Rodriguez, coming from a mostly white, upper middle class neighborhood, and never experiencing much difficulty (although, at the time, teen drama made me think my life was horrible). At age 6 or 7, I was playing baseball and soccer, spending lazy summers at the pool with my friends and babysitters, and playing outside for hours at a time. There was never any danger of shootings, drugs, poverty, or familial strife.
While I don't work in South Central LA, the area where I do work is not great. I can't imagine my 7th graders facing such struggles outside the classroom, even though I do know there are similar issues as those presented in Always Running.
I felt very inspired by this autobiography. The honest accounts of gang life, and the accompanying emotions, tugged on my heart. I am inspired that some of the "characters" expressed remorse about their actions, and questioned why they were doing these things in the first place. Somehow, Rodriguez was able to shed his gang persona, and develop a life dedicated to helping youth facing similar issues.
My only criticism is that Rodriguez did not discuss how he got out, and the ramifications of leaving a gang.
A great read!
By Luis Rodriguez
I'm not sure how to write my personal review of this book, or even where to start. This memoir sticks to my theme of different life perspectives more than any other book I have read this year.
I lived such a different childhood than Luis Rodriguez, coming from a mostly white, upper middle class neighborhood, and never experiencing much difficulty (although, at the time, teen drama made me think my life was horrible). At age 6 or 7, I was playing baseball and soccer, spending lazy summers at the pool with my friends and babysitters, and playing outside for hours at a time. There was never any danger of shootings, drugs, poverty, or familial strife.
While I don't work in South Central LA, the area where I do work is not great. I can't imagine my 7th graders facing such struggles outside the classroom, even though I do know there are similar issues as those presented in Always Running.
I felt very inspired by this autobiography. The honest accounts of gang life, and the accompanying emotions, tugged on my heart. I am inspired that some of the "characters" expressed remorse about their actions, and questioned why they were doing these things in the first place. Somehow, Rodriguez was able to shed his gang persona, and develop a life dedicated to helping youth facing similar issues.
My only criticism is that Rodriguez did not discuss how he got out, and the ramifications of leaving a gang.
A great read!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Book 16 - Without You
Without You: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and the Musical Rent
by Anthony Rapp
Where do I even start with this one? I love Rent, and everything about Rent! Mildly obsessed, is the right word. When I found this on the library catalogue by accident, I giggled with happiness. Sadly, it wasn't at my local library, but I requested it, and it arrived for me to finally read!
The memoir itself wasn't exactly what I was expecting. Well, the first half was. I expected to hear the whole progression of Rent, Jonathan Larson's passing, and the evolution of the show. I definitely got my heart's satisfaction for that part. Then, Anthony Rapp exposed his personal side of the story--his struggles and sadness from his mother passing away, and difficult relationships.
Just as with Unbearable Lightness (Portia de Rossi), Rapp conveyed heartfelt emotions on many levels. He opened up as a celebrity, and exposed the real life behind the character of Mark. I was amazed at the parallels between himself and his stage character. Beyond that, it's reassuring to know that celebrities face the same struggles that I face.
To anyone with any sort of appreciation for musicals, theatre, or people's life stories, I recommend this book!
by Anthony Rapp
Where do I even start with this one? I love Rent, and everything about Rent! Mildly obsessed, is the right word. When I found this on the library catalogue by accident, I giggled with happiness. Sadly, it wasn't at my local library, but I requested it, and it arrived for me to finally read!
The memoir itself wasn't exactly what I was expecting. Well, the first half was. I expected to hear the whole progression of Rent, Jonathan Larson's passing, and the evolution of the show. I definitely got my heart's satisfaction for that part. Then, Anthony Rapp exposed his personal side of the story--his struggles and sadness from his mother passing away, and difficult relationships.
Just as with Unbearable Lightness (Portia de Rossi), Rapp conveyed heartfelt emotions on many levels. He opened up as a celebrity, and exposed the real life behind the character of Mark. I was amazed at the parallels between himself and his stage character. Beyond that, it's reassuring to know that celebrities face the same struggles that I face.
To anyone with any sort of appreciation for musicals, theatre, or people's life stories, I recommend this book!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Book 15 - Unbearable Lightness
Unbearable Lightness: A Story of Loss and Gain
By Portia de Rossi
Another book about eating disorders and mental illnesses. I'm not sure how I got into this theme, but it all fits with my new life perspectives theme I unintentionally started. Good or bad, I only have 3 more books in my physical to-read pile that are autobiographies.
This is another book that I added to my want to read list during the health class I took a year ago. This was one of the books I wanted to read for my project, but other people got to it first. Looking back, I'm glad I had to expand my horizons to experience other life perspectives and issues (thus, I read Beautiful Boy).
Portia's story is incredible. I felt like I was sitting at a cafe with a friend listening to her story, laughing and crying along. The perspective was heartfelt, and brutally honest. Unlike other books I've read, this one comes from a Hollywood star. I appreciated her struggles even more--we look at those in Hollywood, realize they have problems, but somehow picture them above the rest of society. This autobiography showed that Hollywood is human, and that it is ok for all of us to embrace our life struggles.
Another book that I would definitely recommend!
By Portia de Rossi
Another book about eating disorders and mental illnesses. I'm not sure how I got into this theme, but it all fits with my new life perspectives theme I unintentionally started. Good or bad, I only have 3 more books in my physical to-read pile that are autobiographies.
This is another book that I added to my want to read list during the health class I took a year ago. This was one of the books I wanted to read for my project, but other people got to it first. Looking back, I'm glad I had to expand my horizons to experience other life perspectives and issues (thus, I read Beautiful Boy).
Portia's story is incredible. I felt like I was sitting at a cafe with a friend listening to her story, laughing and crying along. The perspective was heartfelt, and brutally honest. Unlike other books I've read, this one comes from a Hollywood star. I appreciated her struggles even more--we look at those in Hollywood, realize they have problems, but somehow picture them above the rest of society. This autobiography showed that Hollywood is human, and that it is ok for all of us to embrace our life struggles.
Another book that I would definitely recommend!
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Book 14 - Madness: A Bipolar Life
Madness: A Bipolar Life
by Marya Hornbacher
This book was difficult to get through. I'm not talking about the writing style, the story, the language...rather, everything. Marya Hornbacher is an incredibly gifted writer, and her writing style is almost too captivating! While reading this book, I could (1) hardly put it down, (2) barely follow the story, and (3) easily have been sucked right into her brain. For these reasons, it was brilliant.
Hornbacher's writing style keeps the story flowing, while infusing every syllable with emotions of mania and depression. It felt like a roller coaster. When I put the book down to do simple tasks, I needed a few seconds to regain my own identity. Such a different experience, and one I've never had before when reading. Sure, I've been captivated so much that I can't put a book down, and feel like I'm an observer to the store...this feeling was different. I liked it, and at the same time, I'm glad it's over!
After reading Wasted a few weeks ago, I wanted to hear more. While this wasn't quite a sequel, it was a overarching second life story from the perspective of bipolar disorder. I knew a bit about bipolar disorder before reading this book, but more from the medical side. The story opened my eyes to what a person actually goes through as they are cycling through mania and depression.
I highly recommend both of these works.
by Marya Hornbacher
This book was difficult to get through. I'm not talking about the writing style, the story, the language...rather, everything. Marya Hornbacher is an incredibly gifted writer, and her writing style is almost too captivating! While reading this book, I could (1) hardly put it down, (2) barely follow the story, and (3) easily have been sucked right into her brain. For these reasons, it was brilliant.
Hornbacher's writing style keeps the story flowing, while infusing every syllable with emotions of mania and depression. It felt like a roller coaster. When I put the book down to do simple tasks, I needed a few seconds to regain my own identity. Such a different experience, and one I've never had before when reading. Sure, I've been captivated so much that I can't put a book down, and feel like I'm an observer to the store...this feeling was different. I liked it, and at the same time, I'm glad it's over!
After reading Wasted a few weeks ago, I wanted to hear more. While this wasn't quite a sequel, it was a overarching second life story from the perspective of bipolar disorder. I knew a bit about bipolar disorder before reading this book, but more from the medical side. The story opened my eyes to what a person actually goes through as they are cycling through mania and depression.
I highly recommend both of these works.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Book 13 - Into Thin Air
Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster
by Jon Krakauer
Back to good writing. Seriously, I enjoy writing books by journalists.
The first IMAX movie I ever saw was the Mt. Everest movie. Definitely a good memory, but I didn't understand at the time that this particular 1996 season at Everest was considered a disaster.
I had forgotten about this book, until I saw it on the public library E-Book catalog. I added it to my wish list, since someone else had checked it out (so cool, but there are limited copies of each book, so I have to wait for the book to become available). Finally, it popped up the other day. I love love love that the library has E-Books.
When starting this book, I didn't know what to expect. I knew nothing about the 1996 Everest expeditions, and very little about Mt. Everest itself. I learned a fair amount about climbing, Tibet and Nepal, Sherpas, and mountains. Starting with zero knowledge, that was pretty easy. Everest is an interesting enterprise, but not enticing enough for me to freeze my butt off for months to be at the top of the world (especially when other people have taken pictures!).
After finishing this book, I watched the Everest documentary on Netflix. Definitely a tame side to the story, that didn't discuss the extreme hazards and nightmares Everest provides.
by Jon Krakauer
Back to good writing. Seriously, I enjoy writing books by journalists.
The first IMAX movie I ever saw was the Mt. Everest movie. Definitely a good memory, but I didn't understand at the time that this particular 1996 season at Everest was considered a disaster.
I had forgotten about this book, until I saw it on the public library E-Book catalog. I added it to my wish list, since someone else had checked it out (so cool, but there are limited copies of each book, so I have to wait for the book to become available). Finally, it popped up the other day. I love love love that the library has E-Books.
When starting this book, I didn't know what to expect. I knew nothing about the 1996 Everest expeditions, and very little about Mt. Everest itself. I learned a fair amount about climbing, Tibet and Nepal, Sherpas, and mountains. Starting with zero knowledge, that was pretty easy. Everest is an interesting enterprise, but not enticing enough for me to freeze my butt off for months to be at the top of the world (especially when other people have taken pictures!).
After finishing this book, I watched the Everest documentary on Netflix. Definitely a tame side to the story, that didn't discuss the extreme hazards and nightmares Everest provides.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Book 12 - A Stolen Life
A Stolen Life
by Jaycee Dugard
I was at the library, and saw this book in the biographies. It wasn't on my list of books to pick up, but I ended up checking it out anyway. I guess I was always curious about Jaycee Dugard's kidnapping since her freedom a few years back.
Being from northern California, there was a lot of news coverage on the local channels, and I followed the story casually. It amazed me that those horrible people could hold a person captive (and subsequently her two children born in captivity) for eighteen years.
Reading the book, there wasn't much that I didn't already know from the news coverage. I was a bit surprised--I thought I'd learn all sorts of secrets and inside details to the captivity. Instead, I was bored. The writing style, especially in contrast to the last few books I read, was uninspiring. I suppose I was expecting something exciting, much like Room.
I can't say I was glad to read this book, and it definitely wasn't memorable.
by Jaycee Dugard
I was at the library, and saw this book in the biographies. It wasn't on my list of books to pick up, but I ended up checking it out anyway. I guess I was always curious about Jaycee Dugard's kidnapping since her freedom a few years back.
Being from northern California, there was a lot of news coverage on the local channels, and I followed the story casually. It amazed me that those horrible people could hold a person captive (and subsequently her two children born in captivity) for eighteen years.
Reading the book, there wasn't much that I didn't already know from the news coverage. I was a bit surprised--I thought I'd learn all sorts of secrets and inside details to the captivity. Instead, I was bored. The writing style, especially in contrast to the last few books I read, was uninspiring. I suppose I was expecting something exciting, much like Room.
I can't say I was glad to read this book, and it definitely wasn't memorable.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Book 11 - Tweak
Tweak: Growing up on Methamphetamines
by Nic Sheff
This book has been on my to read list for the last year, after I read his father's memoir, Beautiful Boy. I had to read Beautiful Boy for a school project, but I couldn't put it down!
Tweak reminded me a lot of Wasted, but with slightly different issues. Both authors writing styles are similar, and they are gifted writers with addiction issues. I found this book easy to read because the writing flowed beautifully. Nic is a great writer, just like his father. He made the story seem very read, like I was following him around on his journey.
There were quite a few intense moments, and it was hard to put the book down. At the same time, it was hard to get through mentally, as it makes drugs seem like such a real issue. I mean, a good kid from a good family could go through a trauma, and then take up drugs. I know there is more to it than that, but still, it's the reality we face.
I appreciated that Sheff took the time to write his side of the story (which wasn't surprising after reading Beautiful Boy) and illustrate the immense struggles he faced with drugs.
by Nic Sheff
This book has been on my to read list for the last year, after I read his father's memoir, Beautiful Boy. I had to read Beautiful Boy for a school project, but I couldn't put it down!
Tweak reminded me a lot of Wasted, but with slightly different issues. Both authors writing styles are similar, and they are gifted writers with addiction issues. I found this book easy to read because the writing flowed beautifully. Nic is a great writer, just like his father. He made the story seem very read, like I was following him around on his journey.
There were quite a few intense moments, and it was hard to put the book down. At the same time, it was hard to get through mentally, as it makes drugs seem like such a real issue. I mean, a good kid from a good family could go through a trauma, and then take up drugs. I know there is more to it than that, but still, it's the reality we face.
I appreciated that Sheff took the time to write his side of the story (which wasn't surprising after reading Beautiful Boy) and illustrate the immense struggles he faced with drugs.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Book 10 - Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia
Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia
by Marya Hornbacher
Where do I begin with this one?? Definitely an intense read, but I couldn't put it down.
The whole story, I was rooting for Marya to fully recover and deal with her emotional baggage. I guess that's real life though. I appreciated the completely honest explanation of her life, and the struggles and successes she faced with her eating disorder.
Back to the theme of different life perspectives, this one fits well. Definitely an interesting look into someone's life. Marya was bound to be so successful in school and with her writing career, but sadly the eating disorder got in the way. Amazingly, she survived death, and lived to write her memoir. I hope young girls get their hands on this book, and are inspired to take a different path in life.
I have another one of her books in my physical "to read" stack from the library. It's coming up in a few books...!
by Marya Hornbacher
Where do I begin with this one?? Definitely an intense read, but I couldn't put it down.
The whole story, I was rooting for Marya to fully recover and deal with her emotional baggage. I guess that's real life though. I appreciated the completely honest explanation of her life, and the struggles and successes she faced with her eating disorder.
Back to the theme of different life perspectives, this one fits well. Definitely an interesting look into someone's life. Marya was bound to be so successful in school and with her writing career, but sadly the eating disorder got in the way. Amazingly, she survived death, and lived to write her memoir. I hope young girls get their hands on this book, and are inspired to take a different path in life.
I have another one of her books in my physical "to read" stack from the library. It's coming up in a few books...!
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