On my previous post, I asked for inspiration and recommendations for books to read. Thank you so very much for your wonderful responses, I’m now spoilt for choice. Looks like it’s going to be a year of reading this one, with my studies books included.
Can only dream…
Since you’ve been so generous and shared your reading experiences with me, I thought I’d also share some of my inspired, educational and enjoyable reads, and answer my own questions as well:
- made an impact on my life?
Animal Farm, George Orwell
Well, need I say more? I first laid my eyes on this book when I was 15, it was part of the syllabus at school then. At that age being used to reading romantic novels with happy endings that teens read, this was the first book that made me think and took my reading to a higher level and understanding. Of course, my English teacher then (Mrs Roos) was the best. She had a way of inspiring young minds.
- valuable lesson learned?
Wouldn’t Take Nothing for My Journey Now, Maya Angelou
A book with short essays about life’s challenges and triumphs. Full of wisdom and inspiration.
- affirmed or made me regret a decision?
Daniel, Henning Mankell
Let’s put it this way, the book didn’t make me affirm nor regret a decision but it gave me a deep insight when I was dealing with infertility, and adoption seemed to be a straight-forward solution. It is a very deep and moving book that gave me an insight from the adoptee’s point of view. Though the book is claimed to be fictional, the events sounded so very real to me.
- inspired me to do something I wouldn’t have otherwise tried?
Livin’ La Vida Loca, Belinda Jones
A light and easy read, about a dancing trip – Tango in Argentina, Paso Doble in Spain & Salsa in Cuba. Dancing is one of my pastimes, this would be an ideal holiday. And no I haven’t embarked on the trip yet, still waiting for my DDH to warm up to idea of tapping his feet to good music:-)
- made me laugh out loud to the point of tears?
Two recent books I’ve read
Shapiro’s World: It’s All in the Funnier Details, Jonathan Shapiro &
Is it Coz I’m black?, Ndumiso Ngcobo
South African satire at it’s best. You will probably enjoy these books only if you have a sense of humour and the ability to laugh at yourself.
From my point of view, a book is a literary prescription put up for the benefit of someone who needs it. ~ S.M. Crothers
pic. courtesy of Google
Animal Farm was also one of my set books at school fifty years ago. I’ve read it several times since then, and always get something new from it. Thanks for your other suggestions. I would love to read Jonathan Shapiro’s book.
Animal Farm never fails, it’s also one of the books I’ve retread. Hope you enjoy Shapiro’s book:-)
I’ll be looking out for “Livin’ La Vida Loca” now. Animal Farm is such a classic – it’s almost time for another read
Happy reading:-)
Hi ,
May I suggest ” An Equal Music” by Vikram Seth.
An Equal Music: A Novel
I believe you would like it.
Cheers
Shakti
Thank you for the suggestion, will certainly have a look at the book. I haven’t read anything by Vikram Seth at all. Much appreciated.
I didn’t know Shapiro had written a book!! The days are getting lighter slowly but surely!! xx
Shapiro wrote a real great read to which South Africans can relate to. Grab yourself a copy:-). Days this side are getting longer with a bit of sunshine now and then, but still remain freezing. Waiting eagerly for the ice-cream eating season, spring. Enjoy the skiing.
Animal Farm is unique in my eyes – written by an ardent communist (George Orwell) who were deeply disappointed with precisely the communists – but the book’s still relevant, because the word “communist” can be replaced with all sorts of other political “religions” from the far left across the middle to the far right …
The book is absolutely relevant. It hits home at this present moment, with bad governance happening in my country of birth. I have moved from being angry to being sad about the state of affairs there.
Have you read Michener’s book on South Africa?
Now you have introduced me to a new author. I’ve never read any book by Michener, but I quickly looked him up. He has a wide range of interesting books. Thank you so much for the recommendation.