Hanzy
Like the title states, this book is written in praise of shadows. It compares a lot of the Japanese ideals with the western ones and interestingly draws parallels between them.
It reiterates how subtle, mindful, and intentional the Japanese are with just about everything, and in it's own unique way calls out to the Japanese youth to embrace themselves, to embrace a part of them that while it may be different, has its own beauty.
The characteristics described sort of put my explorations of East Asian art and literature in a new light and has made me appreciate the importance of shadows in a way I'd never thought of before.
2.75
I went in with low expectations as I often tend to with books written by non native writers writing about the Middle East. I loved how gripped I'd been by the story and I enjoyed the writing a lot. However, I couldn't ignore all the little details that were clear indication of insufficient research and it irked me a lot. Terminologies being misused, associations of certain other cultures being confused with the one presented, other misrepresentations, and a wholly American narrative being used as a ‘voice' for the characters. While the author has done her best, the book still gives a superficial feel, a lack of authenticity to the people, culture, and the times being represented.
I still enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series because despite the parts that didn't settle well with me, the story had me hooked.
A journey through time, a world that you somehow become a part of. From the characters to the setting, the themes and the lessons, Haalim was a wonderful ride that I couldn't wait to get to the end of, yet when it finally did end, I'm left wanting more. Not to say the ending wasn't satisfactory for it perfectly concluded everything. Nemrah Ahmed is a genius of a writer. This is my second read of hers and from what I've known, she has an incredible talent in story-telling, one that grabs you in, making you a part of the journey.
I can't classify this book to a particular genre since it seems to have a little bit of everything - from its twists and turns to the lessons imparted, you won't be let down.
An interestingly woven tale of 3 women living through 3 different eras. Quite feministic and includes triggering content that will make you rage and see red. I liked the writing quite a bit
This book was everything ‘I didn't' expect it to be and nothing I did expect. I liked a lot of how it was more or less like social and psychological commentary of not just the Japanese society but also most other cultures and societies.
But it wasn't why I picked up the book and that's perhaps why it was kind of a let down? It also could've been a tad shorter for some bits felt quite unnecessarily slow. I did really appreciate the explorations of our relationship with food, however.
This quiet contemplative and poetic read is quite unique being neither plot nor character-driven but more of a sensation, an unexpressed feeling. The uniqueness of the writing allows for everything to be experienced and felt rather than processed. From character names to the significance of the 7s, the journey through time and seasons, everything was intentionally and wonderfully structured. I am left feeling quite melancholic
I stumbled upon this audiobook on audible and enjoyed being whisked away into a light-hearted cheesy (literally) tale set in Paris.
A light, short, and sweet read.
I found it awful hard to get through this for reasons of my own and perhaps have nothing to do with the book.
I read it around 90% before giving up. I have no idea why I've had this on my tbr for reading the blurb now I realise there's nothing about it that interests me and I'm just not the target audience for it. I picked it up because it's tagged under humour and comedy but again, I'm beginning to realise American humour might not be my cup of tea. And finally, I chose to pair-read this with Mornings in Jenin which is at the polar opposite end and the subject matter of the latter made me wish to throw this one and its mediocrity somewhere far away.
It's hard giving a rating for the collection as each story made me feel differently.
I sort of hated the first few short stories but going on forth with the rest, I started feeling differently and quite enjoyed some of the tales. These stories are bizarre... more of psychological explorations, experiences and feelings that we can't really put to words but Murakami does just that. I'd say if you're to read this collection, go with a bit of an open approach, not expecting any plot or satisfactory endings. The characters aren't the most likable and there's some apathy, some undistinguished personality trait that seems to be shared by almost all of them. You can't attach yourself to the storyline or the characters, but you see the shades of human nature and at times it may even resonate with you. I wholly dislike his explicitness though and strongly believe the stories could do well without them.
Also, each of these tales seems to have some connection between them which was another point of interest for me personally.
I absolutely loved reading this book. It's wholesome, happy, bright and cheery with lessons for people from all walks of life.
An interesting play filled with interesting characters. I may have never read it or even thought of reading it had it not been for the extra time I found myself having after the Corona epidemic.
I had a dreadful time reading this book with its starkly contrasting content and writing. While the beautiful writing kept me going on and on, the very plot and nature of this book kept me from reading for long. I appreciate the author's ability (bravery?) in tackling a topic so very discomfiting, but it's certainly not a book I'd be getting back to anytime in the future
An interesting read.
If you're willing to let yourself loose in exploring the history and cultural significance of tea, art, some philosophy and flowers, go ahead and give this a read
This was a highly fascinating and brilliantly composed novel. I'm a little baffled at how I can feel sorry for a character so abhorrent and detestable, someone so misaligned with my moral compass. I LOVED the writing and descriptions and thoroughly enjoyed it despite the grotesque elements that were a significant part of the plot. The ending was quite shocking, but I should have expected it.
A hauntingly despairing tale of a family, of a culture, of an era that leaves the reader with desolate, empty feelings. I'm surprised the content/trigger warnings of this book aren't as as emphasised as certain other books, for I feel there is a need for it. The book left me with disgust and loathing for beings that scar the face of humanity.
An absolutely lovely book and a definite recommendation from me to everyone!
I read an abridged version as a child and I must say it didn't do any justice to the actual book. It's one of those books that are so wonderful that they just warm your soul and will always have a special place in your heart.
An interesting narrative making even the most mundane tasks seem intriguing.
I'm on a Roald Dahl reading spree and quite enjoying it.
This book surpassed my already low expectations and went even lower if that were possible.
My attempts at appreciating this book either ended up in my falling asleep or having to close the book as I just couldn't read any further. Maybe it's just me and I'm not in the right mood to analyse and read between the lines or something. It's certainly not a book that I'd be recommending. It's perhaps great as a coursework read but definitely not as a leisure-read.
I give it two stars because I do appreciate certain inspirative descriptions and maybe some of the themes? I'm not sure if I'd read it again, I might if someone really convinces me with valid points that would make me see the book differently