2025 Reading Challenge discussion
ARCHIVE 2017
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Lisa's reads: 40 in 2017
DECEMBER LOG
15/12: My plan of finishing both The Glass Arrow & Uglies before the end of the year has been recalculated. As much as it saddens me, I've decided to take a break from the Uglies series for now. I just can't seem to get into it again.. too many distractions, maybe? I dont know why, it's just not grasping me at the moment I guess.
For the remainder of 2016 I'll be working on finishing The Glass Arrow and hopefully I won't have to carry it over to 2017.
17/12: As of today, I am all set with my challenges for 2017. For now at least... I plan on participating in 4 annual challenges & a group read in January. However, I still haven't decided whether I'll be partaking in more challenges. I might've already bitten off a bit too much
20/12: I know it's the novelty of it all but I keep wanting to sign up for more challenges! I have left room to play so I can always do so later in the year.
24/12: Haaaaallelujaaaah! I finally finished The Glass Arrow. For some reason it feels as if I've been reading this for a long time (of course everything is relative) but I started reading December 4th. I will be jotting down my thoughts and opinions on this book at another time ... But I can say I really enjoyed it!
26/12: I am considering starting The Handmaid's Tale next since I've heard it's comparable to "The Glass Arrow" but I won't be able to purchase it until next Friday...What to do? What to do?
My primary goal for 2017 is reading a minimum of 12 books. Hopefully I can find the time while writing my bachelor's thesis! :)A secondary focus is to start catching up on a selection of the duologies, triologies & series I've been missing out on, whilst reducing my TRB list.
I aspire to be more diverse in my reading in 2017, and I think this group will motivate me & help me go out of my comfort zone and expand my horizons. I'll sign up for several exciting challenges as the year progresses. I just hope I don't get in over my head! We'll see how the year goes!
Wish me luck!
JANUARY LOG 01/01: I've decided to keep track of any group reads, buddy reads, or TBR-twins signups here instead of on my corner.
02/01: My reading plan for this month originally only entailed American Gods. However, the idea I had of not joining any challenges this month has completely gone down the drain. Guess I'll be reorganizing my corner again (again again).
Apparently, I lack self-restraint as I am now signed up for both January challenges!
I look forward to updating my progress on the various and relevant challenges though!
15/01: Frustrations, frustrations! Spoilers suck! Week-long-exams suck aswell! Looking forward to finishing American Gods without any more spoilers or distractions
21/01: Yaaay! First book of the year is read! Stay tuned for a commentary post on it in the next few days
28/01: Today it dawned on me that by already having read 4 books (or well 3.5) I've actually gotten a much better start to my reading year than I had predicted. I've surpassed all high hopes and expectations.
Haha. I hope to do some challenges, too, sometime this year, but it will depend on how well I'm doing with my other planned reading. Good luck with yours!
Holly wrote: "Haha. I hope to do some challenges, too, sometime this year, but it will depend on how well I'm doing with my other planned reading. Good luck with yours!"
Thank you so much Holly :) This is my very first year really keeping track of my reading as well as participating in any sort of challenge. Apparently I feel like diving head first into the deep end. I feel like a little kid in a candy shop. (Okay enough with the metaphors now)
Everything is just so new and exciting! and the book covers... Yes I know, don't judge a book by it's cover... but seriously! everything is just so shiny!
Anyways, good luck with your challenge as well :) Intrigued to see what you'll be reading throughout the year.
Joanne wrote: "Best of luck to you on your challenge!"Thanks Joanne :)
American Gods by Neil GaimanJanuary 2nd - 21st of January
This was my first crack at a 'group read' and frankly, I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to keep up. I'm absolutely thrilled that I decided to join though, as it was undeniably, a wonderful way to get back into the groove of reading! Despite being spoiled on two separate occasions, due to non-marked spoilers, I certainly loved this book and enjoyed the overall experience.
Generally speaking, I thoroughly enjoy Gaiman's prose, and the writing style in this particular novel didn't disappoint.
American Gods is one hell of a complex fantasy novel, speckled with Americana and various elements of ancient and modern mythology. It is very detailed and the balance between flowery language and overwrought description works exceedingly well.
The book is divided into four parts and comprised of 20 chapters; each of which is prefaced by a short passage. The narrative style of the main story is linear and told from a 3rd-person, limited point-of-view. Here the storyline primarily follows the main character, Shadow Moon, a recently released ex-con, on an adventure that takes place across a surrealistic version of Modern America, set primarily throughout the American Midwest. The narration will shift at times in order to follow the experiences and thoughts of other characters. Moreover, interludes dispersed throughout the novel serve as backstories that delve into some of the lesser explored characters and further elucidate the premise of the novel.
Although I appreciated the interconnectedness of these vignettes to the main narrative, I felt that the pace dragged at times as a result, and could've therefore done without one or two of these cutbacks.
I found the main premise of the novel to be original and fascinatingly executed.
The remarkable thing about American Gods is that you can take the book at face value; as a story centered around the power struggle between old gods and new gods, or you can interpret it as Gaiman himself intended; as a multilayered metaphorical novel about immigration to America.
Because I read it as the latter and not the former, I, personally, find the emphasis on the importance of knowing each and every one of the gods a bit misplaced. That being said, even though the reader is often given hints and context clues, the identity of a god is rarely stated overtly so having a mythology guide handy can become useful if you want a more extensive understanding of mythology and folklore.
American Gods has, in all its genius, proved to be a polarizing book : people will either love it or loathe it. This dichotomy is nothing if not painfully apparent amongst the reviews that can be found on ŷ, Amazon and elsewhere.
While I would love to encourage everyone to give it a chance, I realize that it won't be a book for everybody. In point of fact, I would argue that American Gods is not the best entry point to Neil Gaiman's writing style.
So instead, I would recommend starting with Neverwhere (urban fantasy) or Stardust (traditional fantasy) since they are both much more accessible. Another course of action, should you favor short stories, is Smoke and Mirrors: Short Fiction and Illusions, a collection that illustrates Gaiman's versatility.
As with any of Gaiman's stories, the devil is in the detail, and already now thinking in retrospect, I'm noticing things that I simply missed this time around.
I will, without a doubt, definitely be reading this book again, one day! :)
Rating: ★★★★� (4,5)
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, Myths Around the World, Marathon Challenge, January Group Read
The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman21st January - 25th January
After reading American Gods and loving it (!), I was in the mood for more Neil Gaiman. I couldn't help but feel compelled to read this short story, not out of obligation, but merely out of a burning desire to return to this fantastic universe.
The Monarch of the Glen is presented as an "American Gods novella", picking back up circa two years after the culminating events of American Gods. Shadow Moon, has been travelling through Europe and finds himself in the Highlands of Scotland. Here he gets sucked into the fantastical world of gods and legends once again, when he agrees to work as security at the annual party that is being held at an isolated castle one weekend.
Due to the length and narrative style, this novelette reminded me of the vignettes from American Gods, and even though it wrapped up nicely, I wouldn't have complained had it been extended into a full length novel.
Nonetheless, the transition between the two plots is, in my opinion, seamless. As always, Gaiman's writing is detailed and his story-weaving skills are absolutely sublime.
I also found the storyline to be intriguing and although the pace is fairly slow at first, things do pick up about halfway through. Also, featured within are great references to the Beowulf mythos.
Even though Gaiman had been dropping subtle hints and clues throughout American Gods, Shadow's true identity is finally explicitly revealed here. I appreciated that that was cleared up because although I had figured it out during my reading of the novel, I noticed that other reader's comments reflected a lot of confusion surrounding that.
Since I haven't gotten to the remaining books yet, I can't say for certain how imperative this novella is to the overall narrative arc. With that said, I do insist it would be advantageous to have read American Gods before picking this up since the novel will introduce you to the world and help you attain a better understanding for Shadow Moon as a character.
Ultimately what augmented my reading experience most, were the black-and-white illustrations by Daniel Egnéus.
Granted, pricewise it's preposterous and it seems exploitative when you can get your hands on the novella sans illustrations in previous publications, BUT the illustrations are well worth it, in my opinion. They are beautiful and grotesque, and they complement the atmospheric darkness of the narrative very well.
So although the novella appears in the short stories collection Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders and Legends II, I would encourage anyone considering picking this up, to buy the illustrated edition.
Overall, this was a good follow-up to its parent novel. I rather enjoyed the change of scenery and the fact that the backdrop is the Old World rather than the New. I love the fact that reading Gaiman's works is always like solving a jigsaw, one piece at a time.
Next stop on the Neil Gaiman train will most certainly be Anansi Boys!
Rating: ★★★✩� (3,5)
Applicable challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Myths Around the World, Marathon Challenge
The Forbidden Book: A Novel by Guido Mina di Sospiro & Joscelyn Godwin21st January - 29th January
Rating: ★✩✩✩�
Applicable challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Myths Around the World, Marathon Challenge
Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry24th January - 31st January
"A children's story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children's story in the slightest". (C. S. Lewis)
Where do I possibly start writing my thoughts on this book that holds such a special place in my heart!?
First of all, I want to start off by confessing that I am, at times, apprehensive about re-reading childhood favorites because... well, tastes, perceptions and opinions usually change with age. That being said, this is an all-time favorite of mine! It has been in my life since I was 6-years old and I've read it (and cherished it) on at least five different occasions. Each time discovering new things and finding new reasons to continue loving it.
I couldn't decide whether I wanted to read it in English or French so I picked it both versions. The French version, I read as part of one of the yearly challenges. And I read the English translation aloud to my non-reader-husband each night before bed.
Once I started reading, and the memories connected to previous readings became clear in my mind, there was no doubt that I still enjoyed the story very much. What surprises me every time is how much I, in fact, treasure it.
Even though The Little Prince is written in a deceptively simple manner and is often conceptualized as a story for children, it is in fact an allegory of Saint-Exupéry's own life. As such, The Little Prince addresses a number of important themes as relevant to Saint-Exupéry's time, as to modern times. Each of the characters the little prince meets while travelling the galaxy are critical portrayals of social concerns. Furthermore, this adult fable offers numerous thematic messages and makes several observations about life and human nature.
The writing is beautiful, the themes are marvelous and the language is simple and clear. And don't get me started on the beautiful watercolor illustrations!
The little prince has tamed me and I will therefore continue re-reading it and cherish it forevermore.
Rating: ★★★★� Review
Applicable challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Around the World in Language, Myths Around the World, Marathon Challenge
Juan Salvador Gaviota: Un relato by Richard Bach31st January
I was gifted Jonathan Livingston Seagull by my mother on my 9th birthday and I've been trying to recall whether I completely understood the story when I read it back then for the first time, or if I perhaps just thought it was a cute fable about seagulls. Honestly, I can't remember. Either way, I can only imagine enjoying it a great deal, for whatever reason.
Re-reading this now, I've come to realize sometimes it's best to just leave childhood memories alone. I truly wanted to still like this book. Unfortunately, at this point in time, all I could think was "what simplistic, metaphysical hogwash".
Don't get me wrong, I understand why a lot of people still love it. Replete with key lessons about human potential, I do think that everyone should read this existentialist novella, at least once in their lifetime.
Jonathan Livingston Seagull is a book about defying conventions and following your dreams. It is a social commentary on complacency and mediocrity. It is one of those books that needs to be read at a very particular moment in your life. It is inspirational and affirming.
At this point in my life though, it just fell flat and I didn't feel it had much to impart to adults.
Rating: ★★✩✩�
Applicable challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Myths Around the World, Marathon Challenge
JANUARY SUMMARY 
FEBRUARY LOG01/02: So. My reading in the month of January went exceedingly well. I ended up completing five books, so it was a great start to the year. Let's see what February brings!
02/02:Initially I had thought (and hoped) that I could get around to reading 3 books this month. Apart from doing the buddy read and the Earth Challenge, I wanted to partake in the group read, but once again, I've miscalculated the happenings of life.
11/02: Finished my first buddy read ever! And even though I had some doubts and reservations on whether or not it would be for me, I found it to be an interesting experience.
Since the genre wasn't one I normally reach for, being able to spar with others, motivated and kept me on track. It was nice having people to discuss thoughts and observations with.
Most likely not my last buddy read :)
13/02: Time to get on to this month's second book: The Golem and the Jinni
18/02: While organizing/categorizing my bookshelves on ŷ (because let's face it - it's a neverending project) I came across The Light of the Fireflies which has been on my TBR since December.
I can't explain what it was that drew me to it now but I felt an urge to read it immediately, so I'll be taking a little break from The Golem and the Jinni to read this.
19/02: I finished The Light of the Fireflies and it's by far the fastest I've read a book in a long time! It kept me intrigued and I just couldn't put it down. 100% recommendable, though it most certainly will not be for everyone.
Time to get back to The Golem and the Jinni!
21/02: I've hit a bit of a reading slump, I guess. I don't know why it is, but I keep getting distracted by other books this month! I'm feeling so absentminded lately. Cant get a feel for what I want to do.
Slowly but steady, I'm pushing through though! I want to continue with The Golem and the Jinni because it truly is a great book and I wish to complete the Earth Challenge.
23/02: Looking forward to seeing what the March challenges will be!
27/02: Just started reading A Monster Calls. What is wrong with me?! I'm so close to the end of The Golem and the Jinni that I should probably finish before picking up others, right? Right!
28/02: A Monster Calls was such a fast read! Patrick Ness where have you been all my life?! What a fantastic book. I would've probably finished it in one sitting too, had it not been for, you know, sleep. Can't wait to see the movie! Really excited to hearing Liam Neeson as the yew tree!
Finished The Golem and the Jinni aswell, right before going to sleep! Yaaaay! I feel like I've dragged a bit, and it has taken me a long time to get through it, but I'm so glad I finished!
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman1st February - 11th February
Impressions of the book
"Can it ever be right to disobey the rules? Can it ever be right to cause harm to someone to protect those you love?" (M.L. Steadman)
I decided to read this book as a buddy-read because I knew that I wouldn't get through it of my own volition, simply due to the fact that it isn't a genre I gravitate towards.
Now that I've finished, I'm really glad I picked it up and I'm looking forward to watching the filmization.
Rating: ★★★✩� (3,5)
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, February Buddy Read
Thoughts on the movie
After having read the book, I expected to need a box of Kleenex handy while watching the movie adaptation. However, this was not the case. The film was not exactly what I was expecting and it was most definitely not entirely what I wanted.
I had imagined certain passages from the book that would've worked well as scenes. Instead, crucial parts that (in my opinion) could've added depth and power to the story, were skipped over for the benefits of parts that didn't really contribute anything to the overall movie.
Maybe I watched it too soon after reading the book, but it simply didn't captivate me or tug at my heartstrings, despite outstanding actors like Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz being in the leading roles.
The fact that Director Derek Cianfrance knocked the novel's mellow pace even further into excruciatingly slow, didn't help.
On a positive note though, the cinematography does an amazing job of capturing the spellbinding beauty that characterizes New Zealand's landscape!
All in all, I wanted so much more of this movie! More raw emotions, more drama, more... something!
Instead, I was left feeling very "meh" and disappointed and I could've quite honestly have done without it. What a shame...
Rating (on IMDb): ★★★★★✩✩✩✩✩
Storytime
Who knows what draws us to read the books we read? Is it the title? is it the cover, is it the price, is it a combination of everything?
I added this book to my TBR- bookshelf on ŷ sometime in December for some reason� I can't for the life of me remember what attracted me to it in the first place. Or even what it was that made me pick it up this month.
So right after purchasing the English version on Amazon it dawned on me that it's written by a Spanish author, so originally written in Spanish � Yeah, I'm sorry Paul Pen, but what did you expect?
Anyways, since I prefer reading books in their original language whenever possible, I now had a decision to make: finish reading the book in English or buy the Spanish version as well� suddenly having spent not only $6, but $13. What to do? Would it make a difference?
The answer: No it did not and yes I ended up buying and reading both.
Anyways! Now to my impressions on the book itself (the English version).
The Light of the Fireflies (El brillo de las luciérnagas) by Paul Pen
18th February - 19th February
"There's no creature more amazing than one that can make its own light"
This is a book that I actually have a hard time describing how I feel about it because�. Well, I just do without giving anything away. My first reaction upon completion was uncertainty on whether or not I had liked it. This book will do that to you! It is horrific and unsettling, and it made me uncomfortable more than once.
I don't want to say much because the less you know going into the story, the better. I will say this though, it's not what I had expected from reading the synopsis!
Please be aware that this is definitely not for those who are sensitive or prefer a happy ending where justice and goodness prevails. This is a story that explores the darkest corners of the human mind.
The Light of the Fireflies is exceptionally well-written. Outstanding translation done by Simon Bruni.
This book is a page-turner that kept me intrigued throughout. I read the entire book over a span of 24 hours because I just could not put it down. There are serious twists and turns all the way through that kept me rethinking my stance on the subject matter. Just when I thought I knew, I had no idea! And just when I had figured out my feelings for the characters it got turned on its head. The use of descriptive language in exquisite.
All that being said, this will not be everyone's taste!
The Light of the Fireflies is dark, twisted, and just plain right disturbing. If you like psychological thrillers, I reluctantly recommend that you to try picking it up because Paul Pen is undoubtedly a very talented writer :)
Rating: ★★★✩� (3,5)
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, Around the World Through Language
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker13th February - 28th February
//UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!
HAVE NOT FINISHED READING QUITE YET BUT COMING SOON :)
STAY TUNED //
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, Earth Challenge
A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness27th February - 28th February
Impressions of the book
"Stories don't always have happy endings"
Even as I am writing this (hours after finishing the book) I still find myself struggling to articulate how I feel. My heart is still aching, my eyes are still puffy and my head is still pounding from all the tears earlier.
I was well-aware of the plot before going in, so I had a cognizance as to where it would take me on an emotional level. However, this raw and emotional book was nothing like anything I've ever read. To put it simply, it shattered my heart.
I'm a very emotional person (seriously cry at the drop of a hat) but on this occasion my crying wasn't solely because the book was somber and pessimistic. It wasn't because it deals with a sensitive subject matter.
I cried because this book resonated with on so many different levels. It made me think of and remember those I've lost and it took me to deep buried memories that I just don't revisit.
Still, I adored this book. It's a fast paced book, a quick read with simple language. Furthermore, it's beautifully written - Patrick Ness' poetic writing style was so gorgeous.
I loved and felt for Conor as a character and I really enjoyed the Monster being the representation of Conor's true heart. His cadence and mannerisms got to me.
In conclusion, I found this book so cathartic and I'm very excited to see the movie! And I need more Patrick Ness in my life!
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages
Thoughts on the movie
Rating (on IMDb): ★★★★★★★★★★�
FEBRUARY SUMMARY 
MARCH LOG01/03: I've seriously got no self-restraint! How I plan on reading 3 books, on top of my busy schedule this month is beyond me. Wish me luck!
05/03:My reading has completely stagnated. I was so eager and enthusiastic about Women's History Month and yet I've lost all motivation to read anything altogether. Winter blues? Stress and anxiety? It might just be the transition time to get used to Atwood's and Shetterly's writing style. It might be all of the above.
08/03: I've been needing something to get my mind of the fact that I'm not making any progress in neither my group read book or buddy read book so I decided to read We Should All Be Feminists
09/03: I finished We Should All Be Feminists. If nothing else at least i can say I read one book this month :D
11/03: Taking a different approach to my reading. Instead of moping over the fact that I can't get on with my two planned books. perhaps a change in pace and genre will help me get out of my funk. I picked up The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America
15/03: It should really come as no surprise that since I joined the group and have discovered all the amazing challenges I've been contemplating the idea of participating in more yearly ones. Today I finally made up my mind and signed up for 2 more challenges.
20/03: I've been really enjoying The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America. However, I figured it would be nice with a bit of variation and The Ocean at the End of the Lane has been calling my name for a few months now.
22/03: Today I finished my second book of the month (The Ocean at the End of the Lane) and with that completed my 11th book of a yearly goal of 12! So I decided to make it official and actually raise my goal to 20 books!
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie9th March
A few years ago I watched Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie deliver a TEDx talk addressing the subject matter of feminism. And while I remember it being eloquently conveyed, reading the pocket book was not especially high on my to-read-pile of books. However, March being Women's History Month, I wanted to call to mind the many on-point arguments that had been made.
And even though reading the book didn't have nearly the same effect on me as listening to her speak, it pleased me to find that she had expanded (although only slightly) on some of the ideas presented in her talk. Still, I would've loved if instead of a near-transcript, this essay had explored her observations, opinions, and suggestions furthermore in depth.
I really enjoyed the conversational tone and anecdotal manner of relaying her personal experiences with the issue.
I highly recommend this to anyone with an interest in the topic as an introduction to the concept of feminism. Adichie expresses many imperative points in this concise and eloquently-argued essay.
Rating: ★★★★� (4,5)
Applicable challenges: Let's Turn Pages, The Women in the Book
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman20th - 22nd March
*** Disclaimer: Basically, this is going to be a lot of gushing over Neil Gaiman. In case it's not evident by the following ramblings, I have a major crush on Neil Gaiman. For that reason, it shouldn't come as a shock that this will not be objective in the slightest. So if you're looking for impartiality in regards to this book, please look elsewhere. ***
This was my first audiobook ever and I L-O-V-E-D-loved, every second of the 5 hours and 48 minutes it took to listen to this.
Naturally, it didn't hurt at all that it is narrated by Neil Gaiman himself. I mean, the man could read a grocery list and I would still be mesmerized.
The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a masterpiece. It is the perfect balance of magical, melancholy, and whimsical.
The story begins with the narrator, a middle-aged man, going back to his hometown to attend a funeral. He drives to the end of the lane and finds himself sitting beside a duck pond. Here he starts remembering his childhood and remembering Lettie Hempstock, the 11-year-old girl he befriended when he was 7.
Neil Gaiman mentions in an that this would perhaps particularly appeal to readers who hid in books or constructed fantasy worlds as kids and I think that's part of the reason why this book resonated so strongly with me and why I identified so much with the narrator.
I definitely think he did an amazing job of depicting childhood and capturing that feeling of helplessness many children are faced with at some point or another when we realize how very little control we have of what happens around us.
It took me a little while to fully immerse myself into it all, but once I had passed those first few chapters, it was incredible. The writing style is descriptive and beautiful. Gaiman has such a masterful way with words and imagery, as well as a brilliant ability of impeccably weaving and layering his stories.
I really appreciate how many aspects of this novel can be interpreted in numerous way.
Case in point, there's an ambiguity on whether to categorize this as magical realism or dark fantasy. It can be both or it can be either. It's really up to the individual reader to figure out how they want to understand it and what they want to take from it.
Another aspect that I truly enjoyed is how The Ocean at the End of the Lane explicitly explores memory and identity.
There's a quote by Julian Barnes that links the importance both and I just found it so fitting:
"Memory is identity� You are what you have done; what you have done is in your memory; what you remember defines who you are; when you forget your life you cease to be, even before your death."
Neil Gaiman is one of my most favorite authors for a reason. The Ocean at the End of the Lane IS that reason. Wonderful, wonderful book.
Highly, highly recommended if you are a Neil Gaiman fan! Even if you are not, or have yet to read anything by him, I think this could be a perfect place to start. Also, please do yourself a favor and get the audiobook if you do pick this up!
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable challenges: Let's Turn Pages
El árbol generoso (The Giving Tree) by Shel Silverstein29th March
Since re-reading The Giving Tree it has come to my attention that it is one of the most divisive books in children's literature. Readers will either be a fan and adore it or they will abhor and criticize it.
Now is probably a good moment to mention that I love The Giving Tree and that it completely broke my heart to witness so much condemnation towards a childhood favorite. Not because it's a childhood favorite but because it's such a heartfelt, wonderful story.
I'm not exactly sure at what age I read it for the first time, but based on the publication year of my copy, I'm assuming I was around 4, possibly 5-years old.
At that age, I took it at face value; a tale about the relationship between an apple tree and a boy. Nowadays, I perceive it as an exemplification of unconditional love, as much as a parable about selflessness, the things we do for love, as much as an allegory about the complexity of human connection.
This is an all-time favorite of mine. It is a book that has been with me since I was 5 years old and it has a permanent place in my heart and perpetual residency on my night stand. Need I say more?
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood2nd March - 31th March
Rating: ★★★✩� (3,5)
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, The Women in the Book, March Group Read
MARCH SUMMARY 
APRIL LOGI don't know if anyone reads my personal challenge page at all, or if anyone cares for that matter.
I'm way behind on updating this page but I'll be writing the missing reviews, as well as the monthly overview and everything else tonight and during the weekend at the latest. So that's the lay of the land if it should be of interest to anybody :D Happy reading :)
The Vegetarian by Han Kang4th April - 6th April
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, Around the World Through Language, Popsugar, Modern Mrs. Darcy, Clear the Shelves
Well, I read everything (which is quite a lot hahaha), really enjoy it too, especially when it's from active members like yourself. I always hope people include their star rating so I know if I should add the book to my TBR list (which is already way too long but I guess I'm addicted to "adding" lol).
Susy wrote: "Well, I read everything (which is quite a lot hahaha), really enjoy it too, especially when it's from active members like yourself. I always hope people include their star rating so I know if I sho..."lol, I do the same Susy :D Reading missed notifications is probably one of the first things I do in the morning :D
Hahaha, yes, me too. Doing that right now, still in bed, alarm hasn't gone off yet. I would really like it if the notifications would let you know if the mentioned update is a reply to your post or just a general update. I always have so may notifications, I'm always afraid to accidentally skip one and that it would be a personal reply or maybe even questions posed to me, which I would then fail to answer!
Susy wrote: "Hahaha, yes, me too. Doing that right now, still in bed, alarm hasn't gone off yet. I would really like it if the notifications would let you know if the mentioned update is a reply to your post or..."I'm the worst at checking back on comments I've made on other people's threads. Specially in a group this size, where the sheer amount of updates on every thread and comments is huge. There are times when I leave a comment somewhere and literally forget all about it until weeks later when I by chance stop by the thread again :D
It may take me awhile, but I do try and check in on every one of the members challenge's through out the year. I'm sorry if this is the only time I get to see your's Lisa, but I want you to know that I am quite impressed! Keep up the great work.
Kadijah Michelle wrote: "It may take me awhile, but I do try and check in on every one of the members challenge's through out the year. I'm sorry if this is the only time I get to see your's Lisa, but I want you to know th..."That's quite the mission, Kadijah!
I hope your progress on your goal continues how you aspire :)
Thanks so much for stopping by. I really appreciate the words of encouragement :)
Lisa wrote: "Susy wrote: "Hahaha, yes, me too. Doing that right now, still in bed, alarm hasn't gone off yet. I would really like it if the notifications would let you know if the mentioned update is a reply to..."Yes, tell me about it. It would be great if these notifications would be given separate. Now I'm spending way too much time reading every post. First thing I do when I wake up, when I get home from work and before going to sleep (and every chance I get in between). Should be spending this time reading my books lol
Susy wrote: "Lisa wrote: "Susy wrote: "Hahaha, yes, me too. Doing that right now, still in bed, alarm hasn't gone off yet. I would really like it if the notifications would let you know if the mentioned update ..."My "downfall" this week has been looking through all the books I would like to read, instead of... you know... actually reading :D lol
It would be nice if I could take a break from my thesis and get some dedicated reading done during Easter break.
Lisa wrote: "It would be nice if I could take a break from my thesis and get some dedicated reading done during Easter break."I have 1 week off from work in May so my hope for some reading lies there.... I hope you find the time to dedicate to your reading during your break. Happy Easter in any case!
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes9th April - 13th April
"I don’t know what’s worse; to not know what you are and be happy, or to become what you’ve always wanted to be, and feel alone."
Sometimes I read a book and wonder how it can be possible that I haven't read it earlier in life. This is one of those occasions where I feel I've missed out on something. Then again, I am extremely grateful that I get to enjoy Flowers for Algernon now that I've got a bit more readership behind me, and can appreciate it much more than if I had read it in high school.
I loved this book through-and-through. From the epistolary form, to the consistent use of "perfect" and "imperfect" language, to the figurative language, to the themes, etc.
Admittedly, I have nothing but adoration for this novel.
It is a marvelously poignant and hauntingly beautiful story. It was captivating, thought-provoking, heart-rending and impactful. Utterly brilliantly executed!
This was a no-brainer. Daniel Keyes' Flowers for Algernon is definitely a tour-de-force. It is by far the easiest 5-star rating I have ever awarded a book. Highly recommended!
If you have not yet read this book, I encourage that you move it up to the top of your list! :)
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable GR Challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, Popsugar, Modern Mrs. Darcy, Clear the Shelves, Classics Around the World, Links
Applicable Personal Challenges: Gilmore List
Algernon, Charlie, and I: A Writer's Journey by Daniel Keyes16th April - 21st April
This is truly an interesting book. It chronicles Daniel Keyes' journey as a writer and how the idea for Flowers for Algernon came to life. It is fascinating to read about the roots for various aspects of the story and to learn how the original idea developed over time in multiple mediums.
Even more fascinating was reading the original novelette version after reading the novel.
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable challenges: Genre Bingo, Let's Turn Pages, Clear the Shelves, Links
The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson11th March - 28th April
NOT QUITE FINISHED YET - just wanted to save a spot for my thoughts of it WILL FINISH SOON
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable GR Challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Popsugar, Clear the Shelves
Applicable Personal Challenges: Gilmore List
I've been anticipating this review for quite some time! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts :)
Janine wrote: "I've been anticipating this review for quite some time! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts :)"Haha, it has taken me a while to get through it :D I'm hoping to finish it tonight or tomorrow :)
APRIL SUMMARY 
MAY LOG01/05: I have BIG ambitions this month, but I'm going to try to keep them realistic! Since my reading average thus far is of four books per month, my intention this month is to read at least three books.
I'll be participating on the buddy read for To Kill a Mockingbird, I intend to read Kafka on the Shore and finally I plan on reading the first two books in Dot Hutchison's The Collector's series. Furthermore, I would love to get to The Circle but we'll see! Wish me luck! :)
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee2nd May - 12th May
Rating: ★★★★ (4,5)
Applicable GR Challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Modern Mrs. Darcy, Clear the Shelves, Classics Around the World, May Buddy Read
Applicable Personal Challenges: Gilmore List
The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison12th May - 14th May
“Beauty loses its meaning when you’re surrounded by too much of it.�
This book. Oh boy, this book. Okay, so I knew I wanted to read The Butterfly Garden from the moment I saw that cover. I knew nothing about it, but something about it just called to me. Even before reading the synopsis, my instincts told me it would be my kind of book. And boy, was it ever!
Allow me to preface this by emphasizing that this book is not for everyone.
Kidnapping, sexual violence and murder are only a few of the events that occur in this novel. Even though nothing is described in any detail and the previously mentioned topics are often disguised with euphemisms, they are still very much prevalent throughout. So if you are the type of person that struggles to dissociate yourself from topics of-the-like, then avoiding this story might be advisable.
Without giving too much away, I'll say this:The Butterfly Garden is a riveting thriller; disturbing and dark; and I was hooked from the very first page.
The pace was consistently on-point, the premise was inventive and the story was well-crafted and well-executed. Moreover, I really liked the dual perspective told in first-person and third person, respectively.
A thematic factor that is introduced and that I really enjoyed is the notion that family is much more than merely being bound by blood. Dot Hutchison suggests through the interactions of the characters that family members can also be related through circumstances. I found myself connecting and genuinely caring for the young women.
Also, there is an intermittent aspect that really fascinated me: Dot Hutchison does a fantastic job of contrasting the beauty and horrors in this world. Case in point, the main symbol of butterflies. How Hutchison was able to take such a beautiful creature and turn it into something much, much darker and distressing was really interesting, in my opinion.
For the most part, I enjoyed The Butterfly Garden tremendously. It wasn't without flaws though.
One of my issues with the central character was connecting her mannerisms and vocabulary with her background. I found it challenging at times to accept as true that she would have that level of self-restraint and polish. Also, towards the end, there were some plot holes and I had a minor issue with the plausibility of the situation the characters find themselves in.
Fortunately, I could suspend my disbelief enough that none of these issues bothered me so much that it detracted from my overall enjoyment.
Rating: ★★★★�
Applicable GR Challenges: Let's Turn Pages, Popsugar, Clear the Shelves
But What If We're Wrong?: Thinking About the Present As If It Were the Past by Chuck Klosterman15th May - 18th May
COMING SOON I PROMISE
Rating: ★★★✩� (3,5)
Applicable GR Challenges:
Roses of May by Dot Hutchison18th May - 23rd May
After reading The Butterfly Garden I was certain I wanted to continue reading books by Dot Hutchison. (You can check out my review of that here) So as soon as I saw that the second book in the series was available on Netgalley, I knew I had to request it.
As previously mentioned The Roses of May is the second novel in the The Collector Trilogy and while it's not a direct sequel, the books remain somewhat connected. The Roses of May benefits from readers being privy to the characters and other aspects presented in the first novel. For which reason, I do recommend starting with The Butterfly Garden.
The Roses of May takes place four months after the culminating events of The Butterfly Garden. In addition to the ongoing investigation of the Garden, the FBI team known as "The Quantico Three" is faced with new case.
Besides getting reacquainted with the a few of the same characters from the previous book, we now meet Priya Sravasti, whose sister fell victim to a ritualistic serial killer five years prior.
The Roses of May is a police procedural replete with a suspense, tension and mystery. Throughout my reading process, it felt very Criminal Minds-esque. This novel features that "keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat" quality and is full of twists and turns.
The story was captivating and well-executed and I love Dot Hutchison's narrative style. Unfortunately though, I didn't enjoy this quite as much as the first book. The pace was a bit too slow for my liking and so it took me a little bit of time to truly get into the story. Also, the introduction of a second-person point-of-view, in addition to Priya's first-person perspective and Edddison's third-person point-of-view, took a little getting used to.
I did find Dot Hutchison's ability to seamlessly shift between the POVs rather remarkable. And I was pleased with the change of lead investigator. Brandon Eddison's felt like a natural choice given his backstory. His thought-process and methods of investigation were well utilized in this case. However, I found it bit unrealistic that the FBI agents would have the time to forge such close relationships with the victims of their cases.
Regardless, I'm definitely eager to read the third book in this trilogy. I'm excited and hopeful to see if Mercedes Ramirez will take the role of lead investigator in the final case.
I definitely recommend picking up The Butterfly Garden and The Roses of May.
Rating: ★★★✩� (3,5)
Applicable GR Challenges:
Lisa wrote: "Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry24th January - 31st January
Where do I start writing my thoughts on this book!?
First of all, I want to start of..."
I just read this book for the first time now, in my 40', I don't know why I didn't done it before, but life happens... I loved it so much, it's so simple, adorable, pure but there's also a feeling of sadness, it make me feels nostalgic (for my childhood maybe, for a time more simple...). I read the portuguese version, but allready have the french version on my shelf, I've been told by a french friend that this book must been read in the original version, so I will.
Somewhere in ŷ I read it that we should read this book several times along our life: when we are children, when we are teen, when we are adults, when we get old, because there's always something new in the book that we learn with our life experience.
Dina wrote: "Somewhere in ŷ I read it that we should read this book several times along our life: when we are children, when we are teen, when we are adults, when we get old, because there's always something new in the book that we learn with our life experience. "I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed it, Dina! :) And I get what you mean. I have the same experience whenever I read it. It's a feeling of... something or other that's difficult to explain. But perhaps nostalgia is in fact the word that I would use aswell. As The Little Prince himself says: "All grown-ups were once children� but only few of them remember it."
I completely agree with the statement you mention as well and made a similar comment of my review for ŷ. So far, it has proven true in my life.
I believe there is an unfortunate misconception when it comes to the book, where many think it's a simple children's book, when it's not, and steer clear of it. At least that's the perception I've encountered from people in my life, which is why it's always the first book I recommend to people.
2025 Reading Challenge
Books mentioned in this topic
La casa entre los cactus (other topics)Juan Salvador Gaviota: Un relato (other topics)
The Forbidden Book (other topics)
Stars Above: A Lunar Chronicles Collection (other topics)
Winter (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Marissa Meyer (other topics)Marissa Meyer (other topics)
Marissa Meyer (other topics)
Yann Martel (other topics)
Marissa Meyer (other topics)
More...
Here I'll be keeping a running list of the books I read throughout 2017.
My preliminary thoughts, impressions and ratings will be posted for every book upon completion. In addition, I will link to my actual review on ŷ.
Furthermore, I will be posting a monthly-roundup tracking my progress, as well as a year-in-review.
My corner will be utilized as a "catch-all" of sorts to keep track of challenges during the course of the year: 2017 Challenges at-a-glance
Please, feel free to leave a comment. Moreover, book recommendations & suggestions are also greatly appreciated! :)
Looking forward to reading with you all! Happy Reading!