literally_adele's reviews
23 reviews

challenging dark emotional inspiring sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I Am David tells the story of a young boy named David who escapes from a concentration camp during World War II. He is assisted in his escape by one of the guards and the story follows his journey as he strives to follow the guard’s instruction to make his way to Denmark. We are never told where the concentration camp is located, and the identity of David’s captors is never mentioned. By backtracking his journey, we can guess that it is somewhere in Eastern Europe, possibly Bulgaria, or Yugoslavia but it is never explicitly stated. I felt this was a positive move. It emphasises the human aspects of the story over historical details and serves as a symbolic representation of the dehumanising and anonymous nature of the camps during the Holocaust. The anonymity reinforces the idea that the experiences of those in concentration camps were tragically common and not limited to a single geographical location.

Don’t let the subject matter put you off, though. For such a depressing topic, the book is engaging in every other aspect. I was captivated by the beautiful painted image that adorns the cover of my edition, setting the stage for what turned out to be a profoundly moving literary experience. The prose is simple and straightforward yet possesses a unique beauty which enhances the emotional depth of the novel, instilling a sense of haunting sadness that lingers throughout the narrative. From the outset, I found myself immersed in the poignant and thought-provoking story that unfolded. One aspect that resonated deeply with me was David's personal name for God, a small but impactful detail that adds a layer of individuality to his character.

The believability of the narrative is striking; never once did I feel jarred out of the story. The author skilfully portrays the emotional struggles and growth of the protagonist, David. His thought processes are presented with a compelling authenticity, which broke my heart on more than one occasion.

The author skilfully weaves universal themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the importance of individuality into David's personal journey, making the story relatable to a broad audience. Some reviewers said that they found the pacing of the novel slow at times. I personally did not encounter this issue. Some parts of the story are predictable, but this does not detract from the overall impact of the narrative.

I Am David is marketed as children’s literature (middle grade), but it’s a book which will appeal to all ages. Themes of resilience, hope, and the search for identity prevail, leaving me with a lasting impression of a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story, as appealing to adults as to the tweens for which it was written. Indeed, the narrative is likely to resonate more profoundly with adults, given their broader understanding of the historical and psychological nuances woven into the story.

I am not ashamed to say that this book hurt my soul. I cannot recommend it highly enough. If you read just one book this year, make it this one.

Content Warnings

More Rules for Life by Kitty Flanagan

Go to review page

funny slow-paced

3.5

More Rules for Life is the cheeky follow-up to comedian Kitty Flanagan's popular book 488 Rules for Life. Full disclosure, I haven't gotten around to the first one yet, but after hearing Kitty chat about it on telly, I couldn't resist grabbing this sequel off the library shelf. First impressions – I love the cover. It's like a perfect snapshot of Kitty's vibe: easy-going, irreverent, and the kind of auntie you'd want to have a beer with.

The book itself is a riot. I had moments where I was chuckling out loud. But don't be fooled, because tucked between the laughs is a treasure trove of real-life wisdom. It's like Kitty Flanagan took all the nonsense of modern life and put it through a filter of sharp wit and sharpie-like satire. It's your cool auntie's guide to navigating the madness, far more entertaining and enjoyable than that other famous etiquette book (you know the one, but it's slipped my mind). And the reviews I’ve read say the first book is even better!

My only criticism is that the book is a tad on the short side, but others might see that as a selling point. More Rules for Life is short enough to consume in one sitting (perfect if you’re busy or just a casual reader) or you can stretch out the fun by reading it one conveniently compiled section at a time. Best of all, Kitty's voice shines through loud and clear. After reading this, you can bet I'm on the hunt for the first instalment.

The Saying of Names by Karen Blaylock

Go to review page

emotional reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? N/A
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? N/A
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

The Saying of Names is the debut poetry collection by South Australian writer Karen Blaylock. Blaylock is from the Adelaide Hills, which is exciting as that’s where I live, and her work resonates with a deep connection to her local landscape. The book's presentation could have been done better, as, while the cover photo looks like it was probably taken in the Hills, I found it somewhat uninspiring, and reminiscent of a generic stock image. On a positive note, I love that the back cover opts for a poem instead of a conventional blurb, providing potential readers with a taste of Blaylock's writing style and allowing them to gauge their interest before delving into the book.

Through carefully chosen words and meticulous attention to form, Blaylock captures the unique beauty and identity of the Adelaide Hills, and poems like ‘Hot Day’ (one of my favourites) evoke the sweltering weight of an Australian summer.

My top 5 picks from this collection are:

1. Mother’s Day

2. Hot Day

3. In the Garden (In loving memory of Papa)

4. Everyday Watch

5. Come Any Time

Overall, Blaylock's poetry displays a highly perceptive approach to language and form which gives her work a sense of intimacy and depth, drawing readers into a world that feels both familiar and new. Through her words, the Adelaide Hills spring forth into our hearts in a way that is both rich and immersive, allowing us to lose ourselves in the lyrical embrace of Blaylock's world.

Jim Henson's the Dark Crystal Artist Tribute by

Go to review page

adventurous dark slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? N/A
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? N/A
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.5

‘The Dark Crystal’ was one of my favourite films as a child, so it was with great anticipation that I borrowed this book from the library. I was not disappointed. The cover is beautiful, with the front showing various characters from the film and the back sporting a pattern reminiscent of the crystal itself. Such a beautiful cover promises wonderful things for the quality of the images contained within, and boy does this book deliver.

The Dark Crystal Artist Tribute is a stunning collection that showcases immense talent in celebration of the film's imaginative universe. Created by a variety of artists, each piece offers a unique interpretation, infusing fresh life into the beloved cinematic classic. The visuals evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting readers back to the magic and wonder of the original creation.

Overall, while it might have been nice if the artists provided commentary about their work, and their personal connection with ‘The Dark Crystal,’ the art is so undeniably captivating, that such commentary isn’t missed too much. This book is phenomenal, and I was sad to have to return it to the library. I will definitely be buying this for my permanent collection.

Twelve Moons by Mary Oliver

Go to review page

emotional reflective slow-paced

3.5

TRIGGER WARNING: Grief, Suicide

Twelve Moons is a collection of poetry by Mary Oliver that celebrates the natural world and the cyclical rhythms of life. I have no skill when it comes to analysing poetry. I enjoy reading it, but most of the time I have little to no understanding of what is being said. However, even if I don’t always grasp the deeper meaning behind the words, I still find them beautiful. A brief visit to Google tells me that Oliver's work is known for its deep reverence for the natural world, and Twelve Moons is definitely no exception, with readers being swept into the scenes Oliver describes so prettily. Don’t think this is just a collection of nature poems, though. Oliver skilfully weaves vivid descriptions of the natural world with themes of death, grief, and suicide, and an exploration of the spiritual and emotional connections between humans and nature.

My top 5 picks from this collection:

1. Beaver Moon – The Suicide of a Friend
2. Strawberry Moon
3. At Blackwater Pond
4. Worm Moon
5. Poem for my Father’s Ghost

These may be my top five, but choosing these from the selection on offer was a difficult task. There really are a lot of wonderful poems in this collection. Overall, Twelve Moons is a captivating celebration of the natural world and the intricate tapestry of life's rhythms and a testament to Oliver’s skill with words. Poetry fans should definitely check it out.

Content Warnings

A Timeline of Australian Food: From Mutton to Masterchef by Jan O'Connell

Go to review page

informative lighthearted slow-paced

4.0

A Timeline of Australian Food: From Mutton to MasterChef by Jan O'Connell is a comprehensive journey through the evolution of Australian cuisine. Unfortunately, potential readers might have trouble tracking it down as it is, regrettably, out of print. However, those fortunate enough to snag a copy (I bought mine on eBay) are in for a treat. Beginning with the 1860s, the book documents the shifts in food preferences, techniques, and influences that have shaped the nation's palate over the centuries. From reliance on basic provisions like mutton to the advent of multiculturalism and the explosion of food television, O’Connell celebrates the diverse and dynamic nature of Australian food culture and explores how food has played a pivotal role in defining the identity and tastes of modern Australia.

One of the book's standout features is the handy timeline gracing the top of each page, allowing readers to effortlessly navigate the decades, immersing themselves in the various eras of Australian food culture. Another is the collection of beautiful photographs and illustrations that add a nostalgic charm and enrich the reading experience. Beyond the visuals, the writing style is engaging and accessible, and the level of detail and accuracy is impressive.

This is no dry, scholarly treatise on the history of food in Australia. Instead, it adopts a 'Today in History' style of presentation, while still delving into the cultural and social contexts surrounding food in Australia and offering valuable insights into how food practices have evolved alongside the broader tapestry of the nation's history. I experienced several delighted moments of nostalgia, and found many of the anecdotes highly amusing, like the 'Lamington's Banquet' poem on page 73, which was hilarious.

Surprisingly, many of the well-loved Australian dishes featured in the book have deeper roots than I had realised. This adds an extra layer of fascination for both casual food enthusiasts and those with a more profound interest in culinary history.

If I could make one suggestion for improvement, it would be to dedicate a few pages to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cuisine before the arrival of the British and other Europeans. Overall, though, I loved this book and found it to be a fun and interesting read. O'Connell's meticulous research and passion for the subject truly shine through, making A Timeline of Australian Food not only an enjoyable read but also an invaluable resource for anyone curious about the intersection of food and history in the land Down Under.

Letters to Lindy by Alana Valentine

Go to review page

challenging emotional informative reflective sad slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Letters to Lindy is a play written by Alana Valentine which explores the real-life story of Lindy Chamberlain, who was convicted of murdering her baby daughter, Azaria, after she was tragically taken by a dingo in the Australian outback in 1980. I was only little when baby Azaria died, but there isn't an Australian over the age of 25 who doesn't know the Chamberlain story. It's even made its way worldwide in the form of 'dingo ate my baby' jokes. Given the vitriol aimed towards Lindy at the time, I'm not sure that, were I in her situation, I'd have had the strength to even read the letters from the public, let alone keep them. I’d have probably just destroyed the lot.

The book begins with a heartfelt forward by Lindy herself, setting the stage for a narrative that dives into the emotional complexities surrounding the tragic loss of her daughter, and the suspicion and blame she endured due to her stoic refusal to pander to public perceptions on the appropriate expression of grief. Bryce Hallett's introduction further amplifies the emotional depth of the play, as he invites the audience to empathise with Lindy's journey, urging them to reconsider their perceptions of the infamous case. As the play unfolds, it boldly confronts themes of prejudice, media sensationalism, and the legal system's susceptibility to error.

Letters to Lindy doesn't seek to provide easy answers. Instead, the narrative invites viewers to question the judgments and assumptions that defined the case, then and now, and to examine their own internalised prejudices and preconceptions, particularly as applied to faith, grief, and justice. The play was an emotional roller coaster, shifting the gamut between sad, heartbroken, bewildered, furious, and relieved. However, I do think this is one of those plays that loses something by reading it instead of seeing it performed, and I would like to see it performed if possible.

Content Warnings

P.S. I Like You by Kasie West

Go to review page

funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

P.S. I Like You by Kasie West is a contemporary young adult novel, written in first person, about Lily, a high school student who discovers a mysterious pen pal, after scribbling song lyrics on her desk. Lily is surprised to find a response the next day and starts a secret correspondence with an anonymous admirer she nicknames ‘Blue’.

The synopsis reads like a typical YA romcom, which isn’t usually my cup of tea, but I figured it's on my shelf, so I may as well give it a try. The dust jacket on this book is interesting, but I prefer the cover underneath, which is simple but beautiful. I also rather like the cover page, and the font used for the chapter headings. Attractive or unusual features always add to my enjoyment of a book. I must admit I enjoyed West’s engaging and easy to read writing style. The romance is slow to build, and maybe ‘Blue’s’ identity would have been predictable to fans of the genre, but my notes read something like this:

p.8 So, I’m thinking the love interest is going to be either Lucas or Gabriel.

p.34 Or maybe it’s Cade? You know, that whole enemies to lovers schtick?

p.85 I’m finding myself hoping this is Cade.

p.102 I definitely don’t think it’s David. I hope it isn’t David.

p.134 I don’t want it to be Lucas. I want it to be Cade!

p.137 Ha, ha! I knew it was

Cade!

(or hoped, but we’ll pretend it’s the same thing lol)

I love the choice of Chemistry class as the backdrop for a romance story, and the concept of letter writing in a world dominated by technology adds a nostalgic charm to the narrative. Some of the letters Lily and ‘Blue’ exchanged made me chuckle.

I saw a few reviews praising Lily for her relatability, but I didn’t like her. I felt she was a bit bitchy, and self-centred. Also, dating someone when you are aware, deep down, that you like someone else? Not cool. Her character just didn't resonate with me in the same way it did for others. On another note, some of the minor characters were stereotypical and could have used a bit more depth, and the book could have benefited from greater diversity in its cast.

One aspect I thoroughly enjoyed was Lily's relationship with her brothers. Their interactions lent a sense of warmth and authenticity to the story. I would have loved for that aspect to have been explored more than it was. The dynamic between Lily and Cade was also interesting. Was he really being mean, or was Lily just projecting?

I like how letters continue to play a role past the discovery of identities. The revelation of

Cade's

feelings, delivered like a verbal letter, was seriously sweet. One of my favourite scenes. And let's not forget Lily's song - I love how it turned out. I’d really like to hear it put to music.

Overall, P.S. I Like You is a light, heartwarming read. I don't usually read these types of books, so I was surprised how invested I was in the story, and how much I enjoyed it. I was immensely satisfied by the end of the book.

Content Warnings

Fallout: The Hiroshima Cover-up and the Reporter Who Revealed It to the World by Lesley M.M. Blume

Go to review page

dark emotional informative medium-paced

4.0

TRIGGER WARNING: Graphic descriptions of the immediate and ongoing effects of atom bombs, including the death of children.

Rating: 8/10

*****

Fallout tells the story of Pulitzer Prize winner John Hersey’s quest to bring the effects of Atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, to the attention of the American public, despite systematic efforts by MacArthur’s military and the Truman government to conceal the true impact of the bombs on the Japanese people.

I was never a very good student in high school, and I was unaware that there had even been a coverup until I read this book. Not that I’m surprised. Governments thrive on secrets, and they had just come out of a lengthy and costly war.

The book is written chronologically and is easy to follow, with a photo insert allowing us to put faces to the names Blume writes about. At no point did feel lost or confused about the timeline. The author is articulate and engaging, and had me experiencing a range of emotions, from horror, to terror, to disgust, to despair, to pity, to melancholy, to sheer rage. Readers should be aware that Blume doesn’t shy away from providing detailed descriptions of the effects and aftermath of atomic bombs, and some of the actions and remarks relayed may be distressing.

The subject matter was new to me beyond the basic general knowledge. I am left with impression that we all owe a debt of gratitude to John Hersey, William Shawn, and Harold Ross, for exposing the peril of these bombs to the public, and the safety such knowledge has brought us. As this book makes clear, the Truman government felt no remorse or regrets over the use of these bombs, and, without this knowledge, and the horror it evokes, becoming widespread, the world’s leaders would have felt no hesitation in using these weapons again.

*****

Words I had to look up

Striver: Someone who works as hard as a slave.

Sybarite: A self-indulgent person with a fondness for luxury.

Content Warnings

Handling the Undead by John Ajvide Lindqvist

Go to review page

dark emotional tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

Handling the Undead by John Ajvide Lindqvist is a zombie book with a difference. The story begins with the sudden reanimation of thousands of deceased individuals, now referred to as "reliving," before exploring the perspectives of various characters, including grieving families and medical professionals, as they struggle with the emotional and ethical complexities of the situation. Lindqvist combines horror elements with an examination of human nature to explore themes of loss, grief, and our understanding of life and death.

Lindqvist's true mastery, however, lies in the seamless alternation between action and inner dialogue, which results in an ominous air of tension, and in his ability to paint a vivid picture with his words. The author's portrayal of grief is nothing short of haunting; I found myself holding back tears multiple times.

What sets this novel apart is its unique approach to the undead. If you're seeking a traditionally fast-paced, action-packed zombie story, this book may not be to your taste. Far from the mindless flesh-eaters we're accustomed to, these reanimated beings are imbued with a haunting humanity. Lindqvist doesn't just explore death and resurrection; he delves deep into the recesses of human nature, plumbing fear, loathing, disgust, compassion, love, and the raw, unrelenting ache of grief.

The characters in Handling the Undead are complex and enigmatic, breathing life into a genre often characterised by lifelessness. The strong focus on character introspection does slow the pace of the novel; however, the narrative is complex and intricate, weaving a web that leaves readers constantly on edge. The horror here is subtle, playing upon our deepest fears. Through the lens of the zombie premise, Lindqvist offers a searing commentary on modern society, laying bare its fissures - the isolation, the fear, the fraying of social bonds, and the desperate hope for a better future.

The novel concludes with a degree of ambiguity, which may be off-putting for some readers. Many questions are unanswered, including the ultimate fate of the undead and the nature of the force that seems to be influencing them. Some readers will appreciate the open-ended nature of this finish, while others may prefer a more conclusive resolution.

Overall, Handling the Undead is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant work that brings a unique spin to the zombie genre, making it a worthwhile read for those seeking a fresh perspective on the undead.

Content Warnings

More...

literally_adele's reviews 23 reviews

literally_adele's reviews
23 reviews