In a time of global refugee crises, Nayeri’s book is more important than ever. What does it mean to be a refugee? What does a refugee look like? Where are refugee camps and how does one get there?
Second Thoughts: Madeline Stevens’s “Devotion”
While I thoroughly enjoyed reading Stevens’s debut novel, the more I thought about it, the less I realized actually happened. This is the first time I’ve ever edited a review of a book, but I’m sure it won’t be the last…(minor spoilers; content warning)
Hyper-Detailing, or, Why “Show, Don’t Tell” Doesn’t Always Work
Writing advice is incredibly subjective and there are dozens (if not hundreds) of books that purport to contain all of the necessary information needed to write a book. As a writer, I’ve become familiar with a host of “writing advice” that doesn’t sit well (or that I just don’t like.) The first of these is the old mantra: Show, Don’t Tell.
First Impressions: “Devotion” by Madeline Stevens
The lives of two young women become intrinsically intertwined when Ella, young and desperate for work, accepts a nanny position for Lonnie, rich and effortlessly beautiful, looking after her son William. But Lonnie’s life isn’t what it seems—nor is Ella’s.
“The Seven Necessary Sins for Women and Girls” by Mona Eltahawy
Get angry! Rage against the patriarchy! Scream your beautiful battlecry and declare that you are going to fight back! Fueled by anger, rage, and passion, Eltahawy outlines what she defines as “necessary sins” for every woman and girl to have within them (and without.) TW: rape, sexual assault, and violence
Donna Zuckerberg’s “Not All Dead White Men”
In an era of misappropriation and misrepresentation, Zuckerberg eloquently tackles the ever-growing problem of far-right misogynist communities interpreting ancient Greek and Roman philosophy for their own good. But what impact does this action have on our modern society? And what are the problems inherent in their analysis?
Goodreads Reading Challenge 2019
In December of 2018, I decided to participate in the “Reading Challenge” that Goodreads hosts every year. I imagined myself being ambitious when I set my challenge at a measly 15 books. I don’t have to tell you that this goal was easily accomplished—and then some.
