summer reading

Aziz Ansari “Modern Romance”

20150621_191036Aziz Ansari presents the reader with a compelling, well-researched, and entertaining read on the landscape of modern romance. I appreciated that within the introduction he had a full-disclosure of the type of research that was conducted and the type of relationship (predominately heterosexual) that would be covered. He realized that not all types of relationships could be achieved within this single book, and because of his own experiences he could not discuss them effectively.

When reading this book and knowing I would write a review, I was unsure just how candid I wanted to be Continue reading →

Howard C. Cutler “The Art of Happiness”

The full title of this book is “The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living” written by Howard C. Cutler based on conversations with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Like others, at first glance it appears as if HH the Dalai Lama would be the one who wrote this, this is not the case. Rather, the book is a write-up on a collection of conversations Howard C. Cutler, m.d. had with HH the Dalai Lama. Because of this connection between the two authors, it makes for a great comparison between the Eastern world to the Western world. Something that will help Westerners relate scenarios to their own life.

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I have a strong appreciation toward Buddhism, and even had the pleasure to see HH the Dalai Lama speak in Toronto a while back. With each day attempt to bring more of the philosophical elements into my life. This book was an excellent method to help bring happiness to my life, and has provided a look into how one can become happy. I think this book will be something that needs to be read every few years.

Something that stuck with me:
“On the other hand, without expectation and hope, without aspiration, there can be no progress. Some hope is essential. So finding the proper balance is not easy. One needs to judge each situation on the spot.” pg. 232

Alan Moore “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen”

I liked it, and as far as a graphic novels go, it was a good read. Not as intense as V for Vendetta which I guess I was expecting from Alan Moore, but it was still good.

I enjoyed the first volume more so than the second volume. Drawings fit the characters, liked how it was rougher sketches.

I also enjoyed the use of classic Victorian literature mixed in with the plot lines, a good inclusion.

 

Neil Postman “Amusing Ourselves to Death”

The full title of this book by Neil Postman is “Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the age of Show Business”

Reading this book, I just kept thinking about how much it made me seem like a Communications grad. I actually knew what Neil Postman was talking about because of my studies. #win
I understood references, theorists, arguments, it was great. And I felt it perfectly encapsulated my academic studies in 164 pages. Continue reading →

Dean Koontz “Odd Apocalypse”

Odd Thomas is quite possibly my favourite character. As this if the fifth Odd Thomas book in the series, I was not disappointed. This book is more supernatural (I know right, how can that be when Odd sees ghosts) than the rest, and has many crazy elements.

Carrying off from Odd Hours, Annamarie and Odd find themselves at Roseland estate (built by a Roaring 20s Hollywood Film Maker). In typical Odd Thomas fashion, Continue reading →

Shanna Mahin “Oh! You Pretty Things”

This is not your typical “beach read” and should be regarded as more than that. Sure, the plot-line is perhaps more so on the basic side, and the reader is left with a feeling of “oh but do give me more,” but the book is nonetheless entertaining, funny, and will teach you a lesson on people. What I draw away from this reading experience is this: that people are complex; they lead complicated lives, they hide secrets from others and sometimes from themselves, and nearly everyone is critical about themselves.

Jess Dunne is a sarcastic thirtysomething who’s third generation Hollywood, but that doesn’t mean she’s in the business (though her Mother tried). When the opportunity strikes, she begins work as a personal assistant for C-list composer, drawing the attention of a B-list approaching A-list actress.

Jess Dunne’s estranged mother enters the picture wanting to wiggle herself back into Jess’ life, especially with fame looming around.

I found that I connected to Jess. The sarcastic writing, thoughts running through her mind constantly, how she approached situations, it was refreshing to read a character I could and can relate to so much.

These lovely words caught my attention:

“We all in this together, yo. Our people make the village.”
“Hot is fleeting, but funny lasts forever.”
“And you might want to get over it,” he says. “Bitter only poisons the bearer.”

Paula Hawkins “The Girl on the Train”


ooooo! This book was well written, such a good mystery, and featured not your typical characters. Guessed the mystery about half-way through, but man. Loved the novel!

The book begins with Rachel who rides a commuter train each day in the morning and night. She becomes engrossed with a couple she sees outside the train window. Rachel constructs their lives thinking they are perfect and are the ideal couple. Nevertheless, one day Rachel catches a glimpse of something, leading Rachel to become entwined with the police.

I definitely recommend reading this book! Follow my reading adventures at GoodReads.

Manal M. Omar “Barefoot in Baghdad”

The full title of this book is “Barefoot in Baghdad: A Story of Identity — My Own and What It Means to be a Woman in Chaos.”

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Personal Image of my Copy of Barefoot in Baghdad

Thought-provoking, eyeopening, and well written. The book centres Manal Omar’s experiences working in Iraq to provide relief to women in dire situations. Additionally, it discusses Omar’s personal story of identity of being an American-Palestinian Muslim woman choosing to wear the hijab in a war torn country.

Based on other reviews I came across for this book, some were convinced Manal Omar is/was anti-American. It is clear that for those who have this conception did not actually read the book. Manal Omar is not anti-American, she is more so against the occupation of military in Iraq, and is critical of the “War on Terror.” There is a difference between being American and the military.

There was an important quote Omar writes, which I will include here: “Years of humanitarian work had taught me that the smallest intervention could set loose an avalanche of unexpected consequences. I knew better than to dive in on a whim.” pg. 142.

This quote can be applied to humanitarian work such as the donation of clothes, textbooks, shoes, etc. On the surface these are great causes, but only offer short-term solutions. The real solution is long-term, in which communities are taught ways to sustain themselves. Just something I thought about whilst reading.

Sarah Dessen “Lock & Key”

Picked this book up because a) needed something that was mindless b) it was on sale for $5.99.

Nevertheless, it was an excellent read, and provided just what I needed. As this is my third Sarah Dessen book I have noticed a recurring theme throughout her writing. Strong relation to Dreamland, except not to the same extent. Continue reading →