10 Books and More

My father became a myth. Introduction  "Big Fish" by Daniel Wallace is a novel that takes its readers on a whimsical and fantastical journey through the life of Edward Bloom, a man whose stories are as extravagant and larger-than-life as the title suggests. Published in 1998, the novel explores the complex dynamics of family, the nature of storytelling, and the blurred lines between truth and fiction. Tim Burton later adapted the novel into a visually stunning film in 2003, which further enhanced the story's magical elements. In this review, we will look into the heart of "Big Fish," examining its captivating synopsis and the literary elements that make it a compelling and unforgettable read. Synopsis  The novel opens with the protagonist, Edward Bloom, on his deathbed. His estranged son, William, returns to his father's side, hoping to finally uncover the truth behind the myriad of fantastical stories that Edward has told him throughout his life. From the b

  Society and individual not antagonistic but interdependet. Introduction Ruth Benedict's momentous work, "Patterns of Culture" published in 1934, stands as a cornerstone in the field of cultural anthropology. In this groundbreaking text, Benedict explores the diverse ways in which different societies organize themselves, challenging ethnocentrism and offering a profound understanding of cultural relativity. With a keen eye for detail and a masterful command of ethnographic analysis, Benedict takes readers on a journey through three distinct cultures — the Pueblo of the American Southwest, the Kwakiutl of the Pacific Northwest, and the Dobu of Melanesia. As we look into the pages of "Patterns of Culture" Benedict's insights force us to question our preconceived notions about morality, social organization, and the very essence of humanity itself. Understanding Cultural Relativity  Benedict's work is rooted in the idea of cultural relativity, a concept tha

Power is best held by the ones who don’t want it. Introduction  Susan Ee's "End of Days," the final installment in the " Penryn & the End of Days " trilogy, serves as the epic conclusion to the post-apocalyptic saga that began with " Angelfall " and continued with " World After ." Published in 2015, this novel promises to deliver a climactic resolution to the story of Penryn and the angels in a world teetering on the brink of destruction. In this review, we will explore the synopsis, dissect the themes woven into the narrative, examine the evolution of key characters, and assess the impact of "End of Days" on the trilogy and the broader landscape of young adult dystopian fiction. Synopsis  "End of Days" resumes the narrative with Penryn Young, the resilient heroine, facing the tumultuous aftermath of the events in "World After." The world is plunged into chaos as the angelic war escalates, threatening to brin

One general law, leading to the advancement of all organic beings, namely, multiply, vary, let the strongest live and the weakest die. Introduction  Published in 1859, Charles Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" stands as a landmark work that revolutionized our understanding of life on Earth. This historic book presented a groundbreaking theory of evolution through natural selection, challenging prevailing beliefs and sparking a scientific and philosophical revolution. As we look into the pages of this transformative text, we find ourselves on a journey through the depths of biology, guided by Darwin's keen observations and meticulous reasoning. Darwin's Observations and the Foundations of Natural Selection  The journey begins with Darwin's meticulous observations during his voyage on HMS Beagle, where he traversed the Galapagos Islands and various other locations. Through his keen eye, Darwin noted the remarkable diversity of species and the subtle variations

I wonder, can evolutionary biology explain the existence of chimneys, cars, and electricity in as convincing a fashion as it does the natural world? Introduction  In the annals of scientific exploration, Charles Darwin's name stands as an enduring symbol of intellectual prowess and curiosity. His groundbreaking work, " On the Origin of Species " revolutionized our understanding of evolution and natural selection. However, in the realm of evolutionary biology, a lingering question persisted: how did the human mind, with its extraordinary cognitive abilities, evolve? This enigma forms the focal point of Kevin N. Laland's "Darwin's Unfinished Symphony: How Culture Made the Human Mind." Laland embarks on a captivating journey through the intricate interplay of biology and culture, offering readers a compelling narrative that challenges conventional wisdom and invites contemplation on the forces that have shaped the essence of humanity. Evolutionary Puzzles a

True art was more than beauty; it was more than technique. It was not just imitation. Introduction  In the expansive realm of fantasy literature, Brandon Sanderson has carved out a niche for himself as a master storyteller, renowned for his intricate world-building and compelling characters. "The Emperor's Soul" a novella set in the same universe as Sanderson's acclaimed "Elantris" is a testament to his ability to create immersive narratives within a compact format. With a mesmerizing blend of magic, politics, and profound themes, this novella unfolds a tale that transcends its brevity. In this review, we will look into the world of "The Emperor's Soul" exploring its synopsis, themes, characters, and the magic that makes Sanderson's storytelling truly exceptional. Synopsis  "The Emperor's Soul" introduces us to a world where magic takes the form of Forging, an art that allows individuals to rewrite the history of objects and b

Laura Buxton, age ten, who releases a balloon from her backyard. It lands 140 miles away in the backyard of another Laura Buxton, also age ten. Introduction  In the realm of literary exploration, few subjects captivate the human imagination as profoundly as the mysterious and enigmatic concept of coincidence. It is within this captivating landscape that Martin Plimmer and Brian King invite readers to embark on a thought-provoking journey in their book "Beyond Coincidence." Released at the intersection of science and storytelling, this work inquires into the fascinating world of chance, weaving together narratives that challenge our understanding of the improbable and the interconnectedness of events. As we navigate the pages of this book, Plimmer and King beckon us to reconsider the boundaries between randomness and fate, offering a unique blend of scientific inquiry and captivating anecdotes that promises to leave readers both enlightened and intrigued. Unraveling the Thre

 All these years, they’ve been like two little plants sharing the same plot of soil, growing around one another, contorting to make room, taking certain unlikely positions. Introduction  In the realm of contemporary literature, few novels manage to capture the intricacies of human relationships as deftly as Sally Rooney's "Normal People." Published in 2018, Rooney's second novel quickly garnered critical acclaim and a devoted readership. At its core, "Normal People" is a nuanced exploration of love, identity, and the complex interplay between two characters, Connell and Marianne. As we look into the pages of this novel, we are invited to witness the ebb and flow of their relationship, navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence and early adulthood. In this review, we will unravel the layers of Rooney's narrative, examining how "Normal People" transcends the conventional boundaries of a love story to become a poignant reflection on the human

 The cry of the poor is not always just, but if you don't listen to it, you will never know what justice is. Introduction  In the realm of historical literature, Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" stands as a seminal work that challenges traditional narratives and amplifies the voices of the marginalized and oppressed. Published in 1980, this groundbreaking book has become a cornerstone in the study of American history, offering a counter-narrative that deviates from the conventional tales of triumph and heroism. Zinn's commitment to uncovering the untold stories of ordinary people provides readers with a fresh perspective, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of those who have been historically silenced. In this review, we will inquire into the main themes, strengths, and criticisms of Zinn's work, exploring its enduring impact on our understanding of the American past. Historical Revisionism Zinn's approach to history is

You gave me a forever within the numbered days, and I'm grateful. Introduction  John Green's "The Fault in Our Stars" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human spirit. Published in 2012, the novel quickly became a bestseller, captivating readers with its honest portrayal of the complexities of life, death, and everything in between. As the author weaves a tale of two teenagers battling cancer, he manages to infuse the narrative with humor, wit, and a profound sense of humanity. In this review, we look into the heart of the story, exploring its characters, themes, and the emotional rollercoaster that is "The Fault in Our Stars." Synopsis  The story revolves around Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sixteen-year-old girl living with thyroid cancer that has metastasized to her lungs, and Augustus Waters, a charming and witty cancer survivor in remission. Their paths cross at a cancer support group, where Hazel is initially reluctant to form connections with

Capital, he said, had no conscience and no fatherland. Introduction  Published in 1915, "The Thirty-Nine Steps" by John Buchan stands as a cornerstone in the realm of espionage and adventure literature. With its gripping narrative and timeless appeal, the novel has earned a lasting place in the hearts of readers. The seamless fusion of suspense, mystery, and a touch of patriotism makes it a classic that transcends its era. This review will look into the intricacies of the plot, characters, and themes that make "The Thirty-Nine Steps" a masterpiece in the world of literary espionage. 0. Synopsis  The story begins with Richard Hannay, a retired mining engineer, who finds himself entangled in a web of international intrigue. Bored with the mundane routine of his life, Hannay welcomes the chance for excitement when he invites a mysterious stranger into his London flat. This mysterious guest, Scudder, reveals a nefarious plot involving the assassination of a Greek politi

 Biology enables, Culture forbids. Introduction  Yuval Noah Harari's "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" is a thought-provoking exploration of the evolution of Homo sapiens, weaving a narrative that spans thousands of years. Published in 2014, the book has garnered widespread acclaim for its engaging storytelling and the author's ability to distill complex historical concepts into accessible and enlightening prose.  Harari takes readers on a captivating journey through the major milestones of human history, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in Africa to the present day. The narrative is not merely a chronological retelling of events but an insightful analysis that challenges conventional wisdom and prompts readers to question their understanding of humanity's past, present, and future. Understanding Homo Sapiens' Origins  Harari begins by digging into the cognitive and agricultural revolutions, the pivotal moments that set Homo sapiens apart from other sp

 History followed different courses for different peoples because of differences among peoples’ environments, not because of biological differences among peoples themselves. Introduction  In the intricate tapestry of human history, few works have attempted to unravel the complex threads that have shaped the destinies of societies across the globe. Jared Diamond's magnum opus, "Guns, Germs, and Steel" stands as a seminal exploration into the roots of human inequality and the forces that have driven the ebb and flow of civilizations. Published in 1997, this Pulitzer Prize-winning book presents a compelling narrative that challenges conventional explanations for the disparities in power and development among different societies. Diamond posits that the divergent paths of human societies can be traced back to environmental factors, geographical advantages, and the interplay of germs, technology, and culture. This review inquires into the key arguments presented in the book,