Life of Pi

Life of Pi is a genre of its own. Haled a modern classic, it truly lives up to the hype. Written by Yann Martel, the story follows the survival of Pi, an Indian boy who is stranded in the Pacific after the Japanese cargo boat headed to America sinks. Finding himself suddenly orphaned, Pi's predicament is further complicated by the zoo animals that take refuge from the wreck in his life boat. One of these refuges is a 450 pound Bengal tiger.

The plot starts out leisurely with stop and start action, but that does not make it less riveting. If anything the slow thoughtful theme of the story deepens every action and brings home the impossible situation Pi is faced with. Pi's internal dialogue and revelations at sea are moving. This story provokes an infinite question that everyone has an opinion on. Is there a God? It would be hard to go through Pi's situation without the support of some type of faith. As Pi shows in the story, his faith is severely tested and at moments denied. The religious thoughts and questions brought up in Life of Pi are eye opening. It truly is a life altering story for those with an open mind.

The characters are few and unique. Pi's family is a big part of his life and the set up for the story, but the longer Pi is at sea, the more the mention of other characters dwindle. Richard Parker, a commanding presence on his own, is simplistically described. His personality is elaborated throughout the story by Pi.
Pi himself is an interesting character. He holds fast to his own beliefs and opinions. Yet is willing to grow and adopt other beliefs if they connect with his morals. A boy of science and faith, his perspective is anything but ordinary.

The incredible journey at sea is wrapped up with their rescue. Pi shares his experience with the authorities and anyone who will listen, but the majority are skeptical of his story. Richard Parker runs off into the forest is not heard from again. As the story closes, the surprising true facts about this event are described: There really was a boy who was lost at sea in the Pacific for 227 days, a Japanese cargo ship really sank at the same time and area as in the book, and this boy claimed he was at sea with a Bengal tiger the entire journey. This story leaves you feeling uncertain, maybe even hollow or uncomfortable. It leaves you with a big question, and a sense that more exists in this world than we comprehend.

What are your thoughts on this out of the box novel?

Enigma

Tiger Eyes

Tiger Eyes is a YA novel written by the one and only Judy Blume, the original queen of teen. Simple and powerful, this story is about a daughter coping with unimaginable loss. Its basic storytelling is made strong and fascinating by the subject matter. The plot is given depth by its sheer simplicity and honesty.

This story follows Davey, the daughter in a family of four. When her father is violently killed Davey retreats inside herself trying to make sense of a sense less incident. Davey's pain and reactions are contrasted by her younger brother, who copes by trying to bring back normalcy. Her mother slowly recedes in shock and exhaustion, leaving her family to figure things out alone. Davey is reeling with pent up emotions, in a fit of frustration she finds herself hiking down into a canyon. Through hiking Davey meets Wolf, a stranger who helps her start the journey of healing.

The characters in Tiger Eyes are strongly defined, each one possessing memorable features and traits. Davey is a relatable teenager, but still her own person. Her personality shows a sharp attentive view of the world. Her little brother is fun, carefree, and childish, but on the inside he realizes the affect of his fathers death. Wolf is silent and supporting, left mostly as a mystery for the reader to think over on their own.

In the end Davey is left with a new outlook on life and a better acceptance of death. She begins to repair the relationships with her family and put the pieces back together. Davey and Wolf go their separate ways, but Davey receives a gift from Wolf in the mail, a reminder that they will see each other again.

Tiger Eyes is a touching story of healing after loss. It shows that no matter what horrible events happen in our lives, family can help put you back together. Tiger Eyes truly is a timeless YA classic.

Have you read this original teen drama?

Enigma

The Heretic Queen

Although I have not delved into the depths of historical fiction, I find the genre fascinating. The Heretic Queen felt like a thrilling ease into the genre. The story follows the niece of Egypt's former queen, Nerfertari. The author portrays the growth from reckless girl to powerful queen, with every heart break and struggle along the way. Based heavily on history, with vivid fiction filling in the cracks, this story was enrapturing. The environments are descriptive, giving you a real experience of ancient Egypt. The writing style was simple, not flowery or distracting. And it was honest and emotional. The author clearly conveys Nerfertari's strength, and her uncertainty.

The plot consists of Nerfertari's struggle to survive as a forgotten princess. Her dead family is branded as heretical, shunning her from her full princess status. As a childhood friend of Ramesses, the prince in line for the throne, she plots to become his queen to gain the status and recognition she was denied. Nefertiti slowly climbs the ladder to success, fighting to keep her life and her morality. Her story is gripping, filled with indecision and heartbreak. Nerfartari is portrayed as determined, a women equipped with the wits and strength to succeed.

The main focus of the story is Nerfertari, however the side characters are equally charming. Ramesses is shown to have a strong sense of justice, and a kind heart. Nefertari's personal maid is wise, nurturing, with strong morals. Even Nerfertari's head priestess is shown to have her own personal struggles. All of these characters combine to form a fascinating story of strength, love, and sacrifice.

The novel concludes with a confrontation of Egypt and a rival land. Egypt's roots are shaken and Nerfertari must hold her county together. In proving herself she wins over the people and Egypt is victorious.

Overall, this novel is unique even among historical fiction. Nerfertari is not as well known as other Egyptian Queens, but her story is equally worthwhile. It covers the great change of a mighty nation. And the dedication of a fearless women.

Is The Heretic Queen a novel you would try?

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The Devil Wear's Prada

 This book was truly a roller coaster ride. From start to finish it was bustling with activity and downright insanity. The story is told from the perspective of Andrea Sachs, a women fresh out of college who lands a job as an assistant to a high class fashion magazine's editor; the reader is left helpless as Andrea is subjected to endless demands from her snippy boss.
Through the book your enveloped in Andrea's personal hell, slowly coming to the realization that this job may not be worth the reward. It's an out of the box read, one relatable to many who have been in a tough job predicament.

The characters in the devil wears prada are very well written. Even when most characters in the novel fall under the same type, fashionable, appearance obsessed,  and snobby. The author Lauren Weisberger still manages to make each one memorable and unique. Her writing style is punchy, clear and concise, while also sly and amusing. Andrea is a refreshing protagonist, strong in her views but just desperate enough to sacrifice parts of who she is for this hellish job. I found the progression of the story intense and absorbing. However nearing the end of the book it seemed to drag on, in danger of becoming redundant, that dullness only lasted a small chapter or two and then the book resumed its full speed.

The ending feels like a well deserved break after the rapid pacing of the novel. Andrea's energy starts to dwindle and the story comes to a natural close. For me, the story was fully immersive, having me lose track of time on more than one occasion. It was not the most satisfying book I have read but I did appreciate the realism of it, there was no sugar coating Andrea's hard work. I felt just as relieved as Andrea by the time I turned the last page.

This story was truly original. It wasn't deeply philosophical or mind blowing, but the outrageousness
in the book felt relatable. Reading the devil wears prada is a work experience everyone should go through.

What are your thoughts on this quirky novel?

Enigma

Splendors and Glooms

Splendors and glooms was a children's book published by scholastic in 2012. Written by Laura Amy Schlitz, it is a story with a barrel full of interesting characters. At the center of the action is Clara Wintermute, Lizzie Rose, and Parsfall. Three kids from different backgrounds who are thrown together under strange circumstances. As the story unfolds these children get themselves dug deep in an age old feud between two magic wielders.

Splendors and Glooms was a unique read. Set in Victorian England, the author manages to bring history to life, while also preserving the relatablility and the mundane. The setting felt rich and fascinating to delve into; from the sloppy streets to Clara's striking home, everything was intricate. Laura Schlitz keeps the pace invigorating and deliberate. The story had a wholeness to it that spoke of thorough research. Details of the buildings, and character appearances displayed the class differences of the time, and the dialogue made you feel as though your were being pulled back to a different era.


The characters were entirely individual and unique. Parsefalls poor manners, and Lizzie's uncommon upbringing made them realistic characters while also likable and easy to root for. Distinct and  life like, the characters were more than capable of holding the weight of the story. The author did a wonderful job of exposing different angles and perspectives through the cast, such as Clara's hidden despair, and the witches suffering. All of the characters reveal something for the story and about the other characters around them.

The plot itself was fairly straightforward, yet twisted in such a way to create a beautifully complex tale with fascinating twists. I felt it was a fun interesting read for its targeted age group and above.


Thoughts, Love, and Opinions welcome down bellow,
Enigma

Book Tattoos

While shopping around North Conway NH I came across a neat and slightly eccentric looking bookshop. The poppy colors and decorative architectural design caught my interest right away. The name was White Birch books. I went in and took my time relishing the variety and quantity of books.

On my way out, a small container on a table made me pause. I took a look at the envelope like packages stacked inside. They were temporary book tattoos! I riffled through and found one of interest; Alice in Wonderland. I purchased them but have yet to test them out.











The address for the bookstore is, 2568 S Main St, North Conway, NH 03860. Its a great place to check out if your a book lover, or a tourists looking for a fun place to shop!

 

Have you come across any book tattoos? What's the coolest book related thing you've found?

Love, Thoughts, and Opinions welcome down bellow,
Enigma

The Shack

There are certain books that stick with us for different reasons. Some because of the plot, others the memorable characters, and some few for reasons we cant pin down. Although The Shack certainly had a memorable plot, I'd still have to place it in number three. Aspects of the structure didn't agree with me, but the questions the author brings up in the story are so unforgettable that its worth the read regardless of style tastes.

The Shack has been one of the most unique reading experiences I've ever had. Written by Wm. Paul Young, it is about a father who's youngest daughter goes missing during a family vacation. It later is  suggested she was kidnapped by a man known as "The Little Lady Killer". The story follows this man through his past and present experiences with God.

 The way in which the writer chooses to represent God is eye opening and refreshing, no matter your religion. It tackles an age old  question of "Where is god?' and "Why does God allow so much pain in our world?" While written poorly in my opinion, I feel the stories essence is strong enough to overlook the awkward wording and punctuation.

 It is a story of survival, faith, understanding, and compassion. It makes you stop and question religion as a whole, while opening your mind to a world of alternative potentials. I would recommend it to Christians and Atheists alike, and everything in between. Its a thought provoking read, and is well worth the time.



Thoughts, Love, and Opinions welcome down bellow,
Enigma

Keeping the Moon

I am not a picky book reader. I come across them in thrift stores, yard sales, and occasionally when in the mood to spoil myself, a bookstore. I understand the convenience of digital books and the miracle of being able to keep a library in your pocket nowadays. But to me, there is nothing like the sensation of picking up a physical book. Its not just the words that tell a story. Its smell tells you where its been,  Its pages tell you who its been with, and its feel sets the mood before you ever read a word. A book doesn't just speak with words, its very paper breathes .

I came across this book, Keeping the Moon at my local library's annual book sale. I tossed it in my overflowing bag with only a quick glance at the cover, it looked interesting enough. I can't say it was extraordinary, but it was profound. This is a story about real people. Quirky and emphasized yes, but real. People you would meet in every  day, those who are mundane but underneath intricate and fascinating. Its honest, and that drew me in.

The book follows Colie, who is fifteen and on the other side of a big weight lose transformation. She gets sent off to stay with a questionable aunt for the summer and learns quit a bit about life, and about her self. Something in the writing makes you ponder while you read. It's thoughtful, but not boriong. Written by a successful young adult novelist, Sarah Dessen, it will most likely resonate with a young crowd. However I encourage older audiences to give it a chance too, this book is a good reminder of what it feels like to be young.

Overall, it was a short and sweet story that covered real struggles of human life. The writing was enjoyable and relatable. The author made you sympathize with multiple characters and different viewpoints.

Where do you get your books?
Stories, Thoughts, and Love down bellow.

Enigma