Ria's
Book Look
A two minute book review that will have your toes tapping.
Good if you: Is it your taste? This should let you know....
In 50: A critique you can chew in exactly 50 words. You can count 'em.
The Appetiser: Quote time. The premium cut from the text.
The Soundtrack: Music seasoning. A song with a similar vibe.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear.
by Elizabeth Gilbert
10th March 2017
Good if you: Have you ever wanted to do something, but been so scared it may not work out that you don't start? Did you love a hobby as a child but as an adult avoid it because it has no "purpose"? Gilbert personifies creativity and gives you the courage to have a go.....not for the success, for the pleasure.
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In 50: The motivational tone of Gilbert's book on creativity was slightly repetitive, however there’s something for everyone in this book. Sound advice is paired with beautifully poetic perspective on how to be more creative, and move forward with our passions. I finished my website didn’t I?! Thanks Lizzie for that 😊
The Appetiser: "At some point, you really just have to finish your work and release it as is - if only so that you can go on to make other things with a glad and determined heart."
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Soundtrack: You Can Get It If You Really Want - Jimmy Cliff
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The Last Act of Love
By Cathy Rentzenbrink
17th March 2017
Good if you: Engage with true stories and like to share the experience of others. Anyone who has experienced guilt, anguish or a family trauma can find parallels with this compassionate and hopeful read.
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In 50: Hopeful grief entwines the mindset of a sister experiencing what no sibling should. An exploration of how tragedy consumes the family, Rentzenbrink’s soulful honesty and bittersweet humour is a gift to the reader. The love and frustration felt by Cathy leads to the hardest of decisions, in this the bravest of books.
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The Appetiser: "I hope things work out, I said in my head, or if they don't, I hope the aftermath is not too brutal; that it is not as long as it has been for me"
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Soundtrack: Silhouette - Active Child
The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo
by Amy Schumer
31st March 2017
Good if you: Need a bit of in your face, no holes barred, no fear honesty about all the trials of feminine life. If you are someone who has an ever evolving relationship with their parents it will resonate with your experiences.
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In 50: A-Schumes renowned for brazen truths, percolates normal women’s experiences forcing stereotypes aside in this memoir that packs a punch. The surprising sentimentality stirred with the major LOLs leave you roaring and fish mouthed on multiple pages. I was sceptical and thought I know what to expect, but WOAH. Read it!
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The Appetiser: (On gun ownership) "Anyone who lives and breathes and has an opinion about whether or not first graders should get shot at school is qualified to speak on this issue"
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Soundtrack: Doo Wop (That Thing) - Lauren Hill
Twilight Scrawls
By Kirsten Maguire
23rd April 2017
Good if you: Have a philosophical mind and want some gritty, image filled escapism. Want to broaden your perspective on your daily life and are intrigued by other cultures.
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In 50: A chocolate box gift for the soul who's seeking answers. Observing nature’s simplicity with complex modern living, Kirsten's poetic style references seamlessly eastern and western philosophy. Twilight Scrawls left me smiling, and clawing for enlightenment and progress. Each poem dances its own rhythm and rhyme, emulating the vivid poet’s personality.
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The Appetiser:
"Somehow I even seem to forget that it also has grown old.
That it too bends and slips and groans, the very earth mounded and rolled.
That some parts of its branches break while other tender shoots grow.
In constant cycle of rebirth, like ourselves, when ourselves we know." from Trees of Wonder.
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Soundtrack: The Sun by The Naked And Famous.
The Handmaid's Tale
By Margaret Atwood
9th May 2017
Good if you: Enjoy dystopian novels. May give food for thought if you are actively engaged in the current global political climate. If you have feminist beliefs or want to challenge your own attitudes to the role of women.
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In 50: Atwood graphically accentuates the plight of women post uprising, through the edgy, blatant storytelling of Offred our protagonist. Questioning how under such heartless regime, empowerment to act seems futile. A substantial read that feels today like a call to action. The female spirit reigns soulful internally whilst being oppressed externally.
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The Appetiser:
"Mother, I think. Wherever you may be. Can you hear me? You wanted a women's culture. Well, now there is one. It isn't what you meant, but it exists. Be thankful for small mercies."
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Soundtrack: The Sound of Silence by Disturbed