Ridiculously long list of bookreviews
Apr. 5th, 2013 03:56 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
beelikejEver since meeting on my brother's birthday years ago and discovering we had similar tastes, I've been mailing about books, films and music with Jelle. Over time these e-letters became huge, so recently we both agreed to try to keep our reviews as to the point as possible;-) Here's my first effort for the books I read in January and February. Translated from my original summaries and opinion in Dutch...
The date is the day I finished the book. Feel free to correct my English;)
January 1: Ransom Riggs - Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children
Grandpa used to tell magical stories while showing the old photos of the children in the orphanage he found shelter in during WWII. His grandson wants to find out the truth. Includes photo-album of the peculiar children.
Intriguing story for teens with extraordinary and surprising characters. Can't tell much more about this without revealing why it's such a cool book. Recommended. (for instance if you like Scarlett Thomas' books)
January 2: Andrew Kaufman - All My Friends Are Superheroes
The title is a good summary;) Ordinairy guy Tom is married to The Perfectionist, but ever since an evil intervention at their wedding he is invisible to her and she appears to have forgotten him. While he remembers his previous (failed) relationships with remarkable women, he tries to find a solution.
An entertaining world, not quite that different from ours; people have powers that maybe aren't that super. Like The Frog-Kisser, with the ability to change geeks into winners, or -my personal favorite- The Sloth (Guess what he's good at:)
January 7: Pseudonymous Bosch - The Name Of This Book Is Secret
Children's adventure written in the style of Lemony Snicket by an author who is "not supposed to tell this story". While investigating the mysterious death of a local magician, two children discover that some people can smell colours. Those special people are very valuable for a dangerous sect. First part of a series featuring the same kids.
Fun, original and full of suspense, but the narrator's continued breaking into the story was annoying and not necessary. I've seen that trick before and done better, this time it's the reason I won't be reading the next adventure. Luckily the story works well on its own:)
January 14: Arthur Japin - Maar Buiten Is Het Feest
[But outside there's a celebration] Dutch novel about the child-abuse in the past of a famous singer.
Horrid, but hopeful because of the switching point of view between the young girl then and the adult woman in present time.
This book is not translated in English yet, but if you want a taste of Japin's intense personal style, I recommend international bestseller The Two Hearts Of Kwasi Boachi (1997).
January 16: Neal Shusterman - Unwind
January 17: Neal Shusterman - Unstrung (e-book, timestamp)
Book for young adults set in an imaginitive nearby future. After years of debate between the American "pro-life" and pro-choice movements it was decided that abortions can be performed retroactively. Teens between the ages 12 and 18 who aren't living up to their parents or care-takers' expectations can be 'unwound'. This means that all their organs and bodyparts will be surgically salvaged to heal sick people. Because 99% of their bodies are being recycled, this unwinding is not considered to be the same as death. Some religions even consider it an honour.
Three teenagers who are scheduled for unwinding, meet each other and run away, trying to survive until they're 18.
EXCELLENT BOOK! Such a tough (and dare I say cool) story, great characters and a believable alternate universe (really!). Nailbitingly tense and perfect tone of voice. Highly recommended.
After reading I went to look for more books by Shusterman and discovered a sequel was published only recently (Unwholly). I immediately ordered it. I also found an extra story (Unstrung), a timestamp about one of the teens in the first book. This is only available digitally.
You can find links to all of the above and more books on the author's website: Storyman. But be sure to read the book first!
January 30: J.K. Rowling - The Casual Vacancy
An adult novel without magic! After an unexpected death, there is a seat available in the local counsel. A lot of people in the village have reasons to want to be elected for that. One of the items on the agenda is the nearby drugsclinic and the run down neighbourhood close to the edge of the nearby town.
I've read all of Rowling's earlier books and I was full of expectations for this. I'm not ashamed to admit I was waiting for woodland-creatures. But there are only very 'normal' people in this story. They are still very interesting characters though because every single one of them is 3-dimensional and comes with an in depth backstory. I had to make a family/relations tree to keep track! Their story may not be eventful in the grand scheme of things but I found it fascinating and very recognizable to read about all their struggles in and outside their homes. In the end, it felt as if I had lived among them for years. Good stuff.
February 1: Arjen Lubach - Mensen Die Ik Ken Die Mijn Moeder Hebben Gekend
[People I Know Who Knew My Mother]
Twenty something guy lost his mom and dad at a young age tells us about his life and loves and how he slowly learned more about his family.
Dutch novel that's not translated but the author just released a thriller (IV) that's already on top of the best-sellers list; it wouldn't surprise me if that becomes available in other languages soon. Plus I'm sharing this review for the few Dutch readers on my flist;) This was a very sweet story with quite a simple almost childlike feel. If you understand the language I recommend following Arjen's Twitter (You may recognize his name as the author of famous Dutch parody song on Eminem's Stan, coincidently called... Jelle)
February 14: Harry Potter Film Wizardry
Gorgeous picture book made by the set designers of the Harry Potter films. Filled with loads of behind the scenes photos and interviews with ALL the actors and creators, but also cool extras like an original invitation to the Yule ball and promotional flyers of the Weasleys jokeshop! A must-have for every Potterfan. *treasures* My edition includes an preview of the final film, if there's a new/final edition available, I'm putting that on my shoppinglist for London in May!
February 18: Niels van Eekelen - Fulcrum Book 1: The Rot Has Set In (+prologue)
Fantasy story about ambitious soldier and young washerwoman with a mysterious past.
WIP, in parts available at Telltale Productions
Written by an online friend. Good read, but I didn't know it was a work in progress, so was rather surprised by the cliffhanger at the end of the book. It may be a while until the next part is published. I'm waiting in sweet anticipation. I'll post a new review when the story is finished;)
February 19: Sinterklaas bestaat - Bram van der Vlugt
Another one for my Dutch and Belgian people flisters. Typical Dutch book [Santa is real] filled with memories from the one and only Sinterklaas. Also contains page-size photos of celebrations through the years all over the Netherlands. *chinhands*
February 24: Joss Whedon - Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog THE BOOK
Script, songs, music, stills and behind the scenes photos from Joss Whedon's webmusical. Includes conversations with all the makers (hello, cute brothers Whedon) and the songs of the hilarious Commentary, The Musical. Must have for fans of Joss. *bows down*
February 28: Door Het Oog Van De Schrijver
[Through The Author's Eyes]
Book from the eighties I found in the crate my mom donated to my library. Translated stories from several internationally acclaimed authors, chosen by then famous Dutch and Flamish writers. An eclectic collection from Franz Kafka to John Updike. I didn't finish all the stories, but some I devoured. Two of them I will remember specifically: Tupic by Michel Tournier (originally French from Le Coq De Bruyère) and The Machine Stops, a gripping SciFi story by E.M. Forster, the author of Howard's End and Maurice (see below)
Was definitely inspired to check out several authors and added some to my readinglist:)
March 5: Chandra Doest - Anthon & Annissa
Family history of a boy from Suriname and a girl from Libanon who become neighbours in Paramaribo in the 1960s. Tells the story from their parents up until their present day grandchildren.
Also from the collection of my mom. A lovely read and I learned a bit about the history of Dutch immigrants and more recent experiences from people in our former colonies.
All these reviews will eventually be posted at my bookcommunity![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-community.gif)
thej2bee, where I will include product details.
I'm planning not to wait another two months before writing my next mail, so the next update won't be as ridiculously long. Now tell me about the books YOU are reading?
More reading recommendations...
Check my fanfic recs for digital stories I read in between and my readinglist for a list of the books I've read since then. Currently I'm in the middle of Maurice by E.M. Forster. I was reminded of this author thanks to the story collection mentioned above. I originally had a bit of trouble getting used to the formal language in this book (it was written in 1914 but on request of the author not published until after his death in 1970) - but now I'm really getting into it. I remember some of it from a (tv) filmadaptation from 1987 I saw years ago With James Wilby, Rupert Graves and Hugh Grant!) but don't recall how it ended... So far it's quite an emotional rollercoaster. *bites lip*
Fortunately I'm still in a strong state of mind and a surprisingly good mood because of the awesome song my iPod played during my shower this morning: Fat Boy Slim - That Old Pair Of Jeans. (Not necessarily happy lyrics, but such a good sound;)
J.
P.S. It seems some people expected different windmills than the ones I posted pictures of yesterday; My camera and I are on a mission to make up for that;)
The date is the day I finished the book. Feel free to correct my English;)
January 1: Ransom Riggs - Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children
Grandpa used to tell magical stories while showing the old photos of the children in the orphanage he found shelter in during WWII. His grandson wants to find out the truth. Includes photo-album of the peculiar children.
Intriguing story for teens with extraordinary and surprising characters. Can't tell much more about this without revealing why it's such a cool book. Recommended. (for instance if you like Scarlett Thomas' books)
January 2: Andrew Kaufman - All My Friends Are Superheroes
The title is a good summary;) Ordinairy guy Tom is married to The Perfectionist, but ever since an evil intervention at their wedding he is invisible to her and she appears to have forgotten him. While he remembers his previous (failed) relationships with remarkable women, he tries to find a solution.
An entertaining world, not quite that different from ours; people have powers that maybe aren't that super. Like The Frog-Kisser, with the ability to change geeks into winners, or -my personal favorite- The Sloth (Guess what he's good at:)
January 7: Pseudonymous Bosch - The Name Of This Book Is Secret
Children's adventure written in the style of Lemony Snicket by an author who is "not supposed to tell this story". While investigating the mysterious death of a local magician, two children discover that some people can smell colours. Those special people are very valuable for a dangerous sect. First part of a series featuring the same kids.
Fun, original and full of suspense, but the narrator's continued breaking into the story was annoying and not necessary. I've seen that trick before and done better, this time it's the reason I won't be reading the next adventure. Luckily the story works well on its own:)
January 14: Arthur Japin - Maar Buiten Is Het Feest
[But outside there's a celebration] Dutch novel about the child-abuse in the past of a famous singer.
Horrid, but hopeful because of the switching point of view between the young girl then and the adult woman in present time.
This book is not translated in English yet, but if you want a taste of Japin's intense personal style, I recommend international bestseller The Two Hearts Of Kwasi Boachi (1997).
January 16: Neal Shusterman - Unwind
January 17: Neal Shusterman - Unstrung (e-book, timestamp)
Book for young adults set in an imaginitive nearby future. After years of debate between the American "pro-life" and pro-choice movements it was decided that abortions can be performed retroactively. Teens between the ages 12 and 18 who aren't living up to their parents or care-takers' expectations can be 'unwound'. This means that all their organs and bodyparts will be surgically salvaged to heal sick people. Because 99% of their bodies are being recycled, this unwinding is not considered to be the same as death. Some religions even consider it an honour.
Three teenagers who are scheduled for unwinding, meet each other and run away, trying to survive until they're 18.
EXCELLENT BOOK! Such a tough (and dare I say cool) story, great characters and a believable alternate universe (really!). Nailbitingly tense and perfect tone of voice. Highly recommended.
After reading I went to look for more books by Shusterman and discovered a sequel was published only recently (Unwholly). I immediately ordered it. I also found an extra story (Unstrung), a timestamp about one of the teens in the first book. This is only available digitally.
You can find links to all of the above and more books on the author's website: Storyman. But be sure to read the book first!
January 30: J.K. Rowling - The Casual Vacancy
An adult novel without magic! After an unexpected death, there is a seat available in the local counsel. A lot of people in the village have reasons to want to be elected for that. One of the items on the agenda is the nearby drugsclinic and the run down neighbourhood close to the edge of the nearby town.
I've read all of Rowling's earlier books and I was full of expectations for this. I'm not ashamed to admit I was waiting for woodland-creatures. But there are only very 'normal' people in this story. They are still very interesting characters though because every single one of them is 3-dimensional and comes with an in depth backstory. I had to make a family/relations tree to keep track! Their story may not be eventful in the grand scheme of things but I found it fascinating and very recognizable to read about all their struggles in and outside their homes. In the end, it felt as if I had lived among them for years. Good stuff.
February 1: Arjen Lubach - Mensen Die Ik Ken Die Mijn Moeder Hebben Gekend
[People I Know Who Knew My Mother]
Twenty something guy lost his mom and dad at a young age tells us about his life and loves and how he slowly learned more about his family.
Dutch novel that's not translated but the author just released a thriller (IV) that's already on top of the best-sellers list; it wouldn't surprise me if that becomes available in other languages soon. Plus I'm sharing this review for the few Dutch readers on my flist;) This was a very sweet story with quite a simple almost childlike feel. If you understand the language I recommend following Arjen's Twitter (You may recognize his name as the author of famous Dutch parody song on Eminem's Stan, coincidently called... Jelle)
February 14: Harry Potter Film Wizardry
Gorgeous picture book made by the set designers of the Harry Potter films. Filled with loads of behind the scenes photos and interviews with ALL the actors and creators, but also cool extras like an original invitation to the Yule ball and promotional flyers of the Weasleys jokeshop! A must-have for every Potterfan. *treasures* My edition includes an preview of the final film, if there's a new/final edition available, I'm putting that on my shoppinglist for London in May!
February 18: Niels van Eekelen - Fulcrum Book 1: The Rot Has Set In (+prologue)
Fantasy story about ambitious soldier and young washerwoman with a mysterious past.
WIP, in parts available at Telltale Productions
Written by an online friend. Good read, but I didn't know it was a work in progress, so was rather surprised by the cliffhanger at the end of the book. It may be a while until the next part is published. I'm waiting in sweet anticipation. I'll post a new review when the story is finished;)
February 19: Sinterklaas bestaat - Bram van der Vlugt
Another one for my Dutch and Belgian people flisters. Typical Dutch book [Santa is real] filled with memories from the one and only Sinterklaas. Also contains page-size photos of celebrations through the years all over the Netherlands. *chinhands*
February 24: Joss Whedon - Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog THE BOOK
Script, songs, music, stills and behind the scenes photos from Joss Whedon's webmusical. Includes conversations with all the makers (hello, cute brothers Whedon) and the songs of the hilarious Commentary, The Musical. Must have for fans of Joss. *bows down*
February 28: Door Het Oog Van De Schrijver
[Through The Author's Eyes]
Book from the eighties I found in the crate my mom donated to my library. Translated stories from several internationally acclaimed authors, chosen by then famous Dutch and Flamish writers. An eclectic collection from Franz Kafka to John Updike. I didn't finish all the stories, but some I devoured. Two of them I will remember specifically: Tupic by Michel Tournier (originally French from Le Coq De Bruyère) and The Machine Stops, a gripping SciFi story by E.M. Forster, the author of Howard's End and Maurice (see below)
Was definitely inspired to check out several authors and added some to my readinglist:)
March 5: Chandra Doest - Anthon & Annissa
Family history of a boy from Suriname and a girl from Libanon who become neighbours in Paramaribo in the 1960s. Tells the story from their parents up until their present day grandchildren.
Also from the collection of my mom. A lovely read and I learned a bit about the history of Dutch immigrants and more recent experiences from people in our former colonies.
All these reviews will eventually be posted at my bookcommunity
thej2bee, where I will include product details.I'm planning not to wait another two months before writing my next mail, so the next update won't be as ridiculously long. Now tell me about the books YOU are reading?
More reading recommendations...
Check my fanfic recs for digital stories I read in between and my readinglist for a list of the books I've read since then. Currently I'm in the middle of Maurice by E.M. Forster. I was reminded of this author thanks to the story collection mentioned above. I originally had a bit of trouble getting used to the formal language in this book (it was written in 1914 but on request of the author not published until after his death in 1970) - but now I'm really getting into it. I remember some of it from a (tv) filmadaptation from 1987 I saw years ago With James Wilby, Rupert Graves and Hugh Grant!) but don't recall how it ended... So far it's quite an emotional rollercoaster. *bites lip*
Fortunately I'm still in a strong state of mind and a surprisingly good mood because of the awesome song my iPod played during my shower this morning: Fat Boy Slim - That Old Pair Of Jeans. (Not necessarily happy lyrics, but such a good sound;)
J.
P.S. It seems some people expected different windmills than the ones I posted pictures of yesterday; My camera and I are on a mission to make up for that;)