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JUNE'S 50 BOOKS READ IN 2018
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JANUARY 1.
by
John LewisFinish Date: January 15, 2018
Genre: Graphic novel; Nonfiction
Rating: B
Review: This highly recommended graphic novel is a good introduction to the Civil Rights Movement from an influential leader at the time. I really like the art work and the use of illustrations. But this is best suited as a means to dive into understanding the movement or as a refresher.
2.
by
Angie ThomasFinish Date: January 17, 2018
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
Rating:A-
Review: The highly acclaimed book of 2017 which well deserves the hype it has garnered. It has many great lines like this one: " The truth casts a shadow over the kitchen- people like us in situations like this become hashtags but they rarely get justice. "
But this is more than just about Black Lives Matter movement. Well worth reading.
Great suggestion, I think it will separate from the quote.
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FEBRUARY 3.
by Colin Woodard (no photo) Finish Date: February 13, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction, history
Rating: C+
Review: Despite the misleading title, this book captures all the known data regarding the pirates of the Golden Age of the 1710-1730s. Despite the lack of reliable archival material, Mr. Woodard was still able to provide key data on the background of major pirates as well as the politico-economic environment. This includes well known pirates such as Henry Avery, Edward Teach (or Thatch), Sam Bellamy, Charles Vane and Benjamin Hornigold who at one point of time had headquarters in Nassau, Bahamas. The main thrust of this book is to dispel many of the myths surrounding piracy. He also often made good critiques of the common source of knowledge subsequent to this time. It can be a bit dry at times but I was intrigued by the other details to gloss over the armament of the sloops and frigates.
Overall an informative read which I would recommend for those who are interested in piracy in the Caribbean, who have watched the popular movies and want more knowledge. This is a good starter book to learn about piracy.
4.
by
Edwidge DanticatFinish Date: February 16, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: A-
Review: A lyrical prose on being an Haitian immigrant in Dominican Republic and the massacre which occurs under Trujillo's regime in 1937. Ms. Danticat mastered the art of saying a lot with few words. Even though the story is sad with themes of loss, isolation, survival she was able to balance it with hope.
Highly recommend.
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MARCH 5.
by
Min Jin LeeFinish Date: march 9, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: B+
Review:
The opening sentence - History has failed us, but no matter.- sets the tone for this book.
Pachinko is a multi-generational novel set in Korea and mainly follows Sunja, a peasant girl and her life. It begins with her father who despite his physical impediments worked hard to provide for his family. It then picks up when Sunja becomes pregnant out of wedlock and ends up marrying a priest and going to Japan. This is a look at Korean diaspora in Japan before and after the Second World War. And as that opening sentence suggests hardships occur. It is through the attitude of Sunja and later generations that the last portion becomes a message of hope. Even to the end of the novel where in modern time of 1980s the racism towards Koreans remains unchanged.
Recommend this novel.
6.
by
Kathleen MorganFinished date: March 10, 2018
Genre: Historical Romance
Rating: B
This novel is set in Denver in 1895and is a Christian novel. It has the usual romance tropes and predictable ending. Ignoring the romance elements, this novel tackles the weighty subject of grief. In 1890s, child and adult mortality are high, so it is not impractical for the protagonist Abigail to have lost her husband and son. She is still grieving but feels confined and stifled in her current environment. She is hired by a single father with an unruly daughter. Despite their appearance and behaviour they too are struggling with grief- loss of a mate and a mother. The tension created but this atmosphere serves as the medium to tackle grief for all concern and to find love again.
Romance can be very formulaic but sometimes gems come at the right time to make an impact in your life.
7.
by
Robert HarrisFinish Date: March 13, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction; Thriller
Rating: B
Review:
This novel had a bit of a rocky start, the beginning was dull with mention of varying types of rock, water and aqueducts. As it progress by chapter 3, the tone changes to a gripping book with corrupt billionaire, a missing water engineer and a dead slave. The reader is aware of the events of the looming eruption of Vesuvius which heightens the tension. Mr. Harris wrote such a plausible historical account of AD 79 that encourages you to read more of his work and do further research on Italy at that time.
Recommend this author for credible historical novels.
8.
by
Kate MortonFinish Date: March 16, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: B
Review:
This is the debut novel of the Australian author Kate Morton. Reminiscent of Upstairs, Downstairs, this gothic novel delves into a tragedy involving the suicide of a known poet, R. S. Hunter and its impact on the aristocratic family, the Hartfords, who lived at Riverton near Essex. The beauty of this novel is the creation of life before and after the Great War. In what becomes her trademark style she seamlessly blends past with future. In this novel the narrator of past is Grace who lives in a nursing home as she recalls the past. Whilst far from perfect, her reputation in historical fiction is established.
Recommended for fans of Upstairs, Downstairs or those who like gothic novels.
9.
by
Lindsey DavisFinish Date: March 24, 2018
Genre: Mystery
Rating: B-
Review: Lindsey Davis is well-known for blending accurate history with mystery. In this series involving Marcus Didius Falco, we learn all about life for Romans, both poor and rich in AD 70. Marcus is an informer and falls into this first adventure as he rescues Sosia Camillina from some thugs. The beginning of this novel is quite misogynstic which more reflects the character. But things improve as the novel continues.
If interested in learning ancient Roman history in a fun way, this is a good place to start.
APRIL 10.
by
Tom ReissFinish Date: April 2, 2018
Genre: History, Biography
Rating: A+
Review:
It is hard not to become biased after reading this account of the real life character who was the inspiration of The Count of Monte Cristo. That it turns out to be the father of Alexandre Dumas, the author is just icing on the cake. This is a riveting and almost biger than life account of a man in 1770s who was responsible for creating much of the French Republic empire. And yet, he is relatively unknown and recognised in France today. And Tom Reiss explains it all very well. Well worth reading.
11.
by
Trevor NoahFinish Date: April 9, 2018
Genre: Non fiction; Memoir
Rating: A
Review:
This is a mature look at life in the post-apartheid Johannesburg. Trevor Noah tells the story of his life during this period- when he was considered white by his mother's family and treated as such but yet in the city, his mother could not walk openly with him. Giving a transparent look at his life, Trevor shares insight into his upbringing- the joys, the dangers, the laughs and his hustling- all the while honoring his mother. And in the end, we are reminded that this is just one story of that time.
Worth the hype.
12.
by
Carlos Ruiz ZafónFinish Date: April 12, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: A
Review:
Translated work of fiction is an excellent way to experience another culture in an authentic way. Whilst the translator has the tough job of maintaining the essence of the work and minimise losing its relevance. In this book, Carlos Ruiz Zafon creates an atmospheric Barcelona as we follow Daniel who falls in love with a forgotten author and seeks to know more about his beloved author. In fact he becomes obsessed with learning as much a he can.
This book is best described as a literary fiction wrapped around a gothic mystery with a coming of age. Excellent for book lovers who enjoy reading about anything book-related.
13.
by
Dorothy L. SayersFinish Date: April 20, 2018
Genre: Mystery
Rating: C
Review:
Dorothy L. Sayers is a very well-read author and she uses her knowledge in her novels. This often requires that further research especially for 1920s slang. She dosen't pamper her reader and often challenges your level of reading. In this novel, on November 11, General Fentiman is found dead in the Bellona Club. This has quite a few military references. But the key to the death is the exact timing. As it turns out, the timing will result in a princely inheritance for one of many heirs.
The other challenge is the dialogue. This is much improved in this installment and I have committed to continuing the series.
14.
by
Markus ZusakFinish Date: April 29, 2018
Genre: Historical fiction: YA
Rating: A+
Review:
This is one of the best selling YA books since its release and stands up to multiple readings. This novel is well known for its narrator Liesel who steals book and ends up learning to read from her adopted father. We follow Liesel during the second World War mainly through the eyes of death. Told in a non-chronological manner, it requires patience with flowery writing to get into the heart of the story. It is not the usual World War 2 story but still impactful. Especially the ending.
MAY 15.
by
Lynn AustinFinish Date: May 5, 2018
Genre: historical Fiction
Rating: C
Review:
Books can challenge your views and long held assumptions. This novel is a look at the Civil War in America. A nation was divided with regards to slavery and its economic impact. This novel attempts to illustrate the struggle of nation and its people. Both sides were deeply religious and often used scripture from the Bible to justify their stance.
Using Richmond, Virginia as the backdrop, the author sets up the tension between North and South.Most of this tension is not on external battle but rather on an individual basis. Caroline Fletcher is used to portray both sides of the War in all its complexities. She struggles to find her place in the war doing what is right. She is often guided not by family but by her slaves. In the end, she makes her final decisions and acts on them. But it often felt like other characters were sacrificed for the sake of the message being given rather than being as organic and nuanced as Caroline.
The focus is more on the cultural and spiritual state of individuals moreso than the battles which occur. These are mentioned especially where relevant to Richmond. This will not be for everyone, but it raises interesting questions about faith and war.
16.
by
Margaret AtwoodFinish Date: may 14, 2018
Genre: Mythology, Historical Fiction
Rating: C
Review:
This is a re-telling of Homer looking at the perspective from Penelope and the twelve maids. Knowing the original story is likely to be more beneficial than a quick research.
The format was intriguing for me. It has been been centuries after the events that Penelope seeks to clear the mystery about the original tale. Atwood counterpoints this with input from the voiceless maids who were silenced. It is a short read that provides jarring look at the possible true story. Based on recent anthropological research, Atwood gives a view that is more modern but remains shackled to the original tale of the Odyssey.
17.
by A.J. Verdelle no photoFinish date: May 19, 2018
Genre: Literary Fiction
Rating: C
Review:
This debut novel bites off more than it can chew adequately. Written in non-chronological order with stream of consciousness, this novel explores the life of a black girl in the 1960s. It tackles themes of home, family dynamics, religion and education. This novel speaks to slang and the Negro male. It failed to delve further into the plight of the Negro male and as a coming of age novel, Denise feels incomplete by the end.
18.
by
Jeffrey ArcherFinish Date: May 29, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating:C
Review:
This is a engaging predictable coming of age story of Harry Clifton. We learn the circumstances of his birth up to his flight to America in this initial book in the series. Told from multiple perspectives, we get a global view of Harry's life. Some perspectives are unnecessary and slowed the pace. There are obvious plot devices to carry the story forward. Regardless of these drawbacks, the story is gripping.Suitable for reading slumps or wanting a light read between heavier reading material.
JUNE 19.
by
Mary RoachFinish Date: June 10, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction
Rating: C+
Review
Mary Roach is well known for tackling science taboos in a humorous way. Her humor is not for everyone. The topic of the alimentary tract unfortunately lends itself to coarser jokes. The novel is saved by her enthusiasm for the topic. In addition, she bursts some longstanding myths with credible science. Sometimes long known truths but folklore persisted. I would not listen or read this one close to meal times.
20.
by
Jesmyn WardFinish Date: June 18, 2018
Genre: memoir
Rating: B
Review:
The opening quote by Harriet Tubman is a haunting and appropriate introduction to this book.
'We saw the lightning and that was the guns; and then we heard the thunder and that was the big guns; and then we heard the rain falling and that was the blood falling; and when we came in to get in the crops, it was dead men that we reaped.'
Jesmyn Ward is an upcoming author with recent critical acclaim for her other works. This book has been recommended as a good introduction to her work. It actually works as introduction to the author. It is tale of five male relatives who died within a few years of each other. While the deaths are varying, the cause is rooted in being who they were- black men who lived in a hostile environment which judged them based on race.
Well-written and heart-wrenching.
21.
by
Alan PatonFinish: June 24, 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: B+
Review:
There is an old axiom for authors- write what you know. Alan Paton does that to great success. He chose his main protagonist as a poor black Anglican priest who receives an ominous letter from Johannesburg concerning his son and sister who he have heard nothing about for years. Written simply yet eloquently, this classic book about hardship offers hope. Highly recommend.
22.
by
Immaculée IlibagizaFinish date: June 26, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction; auto-biography
Rating: A
Review:
Having avoided all stories and movies about the Rwandan genocide, I picked this up after hearing the author;s interview and became intrigued by her reason for writing her memoir.
This is a tale which details life before, during and after the genocide in 1994. But what separates thistale from others is the response that the author gives. This is about suffering and survival which is miraculous. But also her decision to forgive and work to rebuild her country offers hope about mankind.
JULY 23.
by
Stephen KingFinish Date: July 1, 2018
Genre: Science Fiction; Time travel
Rating: B+
Review:
This novel the question what would happen if John F. Kennedy's assassination could be prevented. But of course Stephen King has to make this into an epic tale with some Easter eggs thrown into the mix. The novel begins with Jake Epping, a high school teacher who stumbles across a portal which allows him to travel to 1958. Initially he returns to 2011 on the same day he let only a few minutes later. Lured by living in the past, when he is drafted into the proposal to stop Lee Oswald Harvey, he goes on this wild caper and life is never the same.
Stephen King is a good storyteller but has issues with pacing and writing romance. The ending is one of his best executions.
24.
by
Malcolm GladwellFinish Date: July 6, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction
Rating: C-
Review:
In this book. Malcolm Gladwell tackles the myth of the self-made successful man. He uses many examples of how success is the result of timing, opportunity, commitment and determination. He uses Canadian hockey elite athletes, Asians, Bil Gates and the Beatles to bolster his claims. How rigorous the evidence is to back this claim seems small as he often resorted to anecdotes.
This turned out to be neither ground-breaking or revolutionary for me.
25.
by
David GrannFinish Date: July 14, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction; true crime
Rating : A
Review:
David Grann used his journalistic skills to explore this little known crime which took place in the 1920s. One of the richest Native American tribes was systematically being killed in a time known as the Reign of Terror. This resulted in the formation of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. And at the end, Grann delved further into the background into the tale to present new facts that are horrifying as it seems as if justice was truly blinded.
Highly recommended
26.
by Morris Greenidge no photoFinish Date: July 22, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction, history
Rating: C
Review:
This is a local history book crafted from the memoir of a relative of the author which details life in Barbados around the time of Emancipation. It is a snapshot of events on the island with those who worked behind the scenes and the views of local population including on e of the national heroes, Samuel Jackman.
This book was a good look into the local situation. All people in the society had a voice or view expressed. However, too many perspective hampered the pacing of the book and lessened my enjoyment .
My major criticism is that the book needed maps to give greater understanding to distances between streets and parishes as well as include the more modern names for the streets. If it is meant to be read by wider audience, it needed to expound more with maps and more illustrations.
27.
by
David GrannFinish Date: July 24, 2018
Genre: Non-fiction; History;Adventure
Rating: B+
Review:
This is the debut book by David Grann highlighting the disappearance of PH Fawcett. Fawcett is the Victorian ideal of an explorer and his background is explored thoroughly. He is an exacting man who is mission-focused and despise any form of weakness. He becomes convinced that there was a superior civilisation in the Amazon but the evidence can be found. In 1920s he takes the fated trip to find the City of Z and is never heard from again.
This novel is great at dispelling the myth of exploration as a glamorous exercise especially in the Amazon. The major complaint is that the major portion of the story occurs late in the narration so the ending seems rushed and unfulfilling. Still worth reading.
Wow, you've been reading up a storm! Great reviews, added a few to my TBR.
Mod
I felt ashamed because I hadn’t updated since February which is ridiculous. So updated up to July. I have August to present time to add in. So happy with many of the books I’ve read.
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The History Book Club
Books mentioned in this topic
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon (other topics)Just Call Me Madam : Chronicles of Emancipation (other topics)
Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI (other topics)
Outliers: The Story of Success (other topics)
11.22.63 (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
David Grann (other topics)Morris Greenidge (other topics)
David Grann (other topics)
Malcolm Gladwell (other topics)
Stephen King (other topics)
More...
Please follow the standard required format below - I hope you enjoy your reading in 2018. Here is also a link for assistance with the required guidelines:
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JANUARY
1.
Finish date: January 2018
Genre: (whatever genre the book happens to be)
Rating: A
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