“Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Power of Positive” by Jack Canfield, et al Review There are 101 true stories in this book divided into 11 sections, each one dealing with a different power: from Attitude to Dreaming and Gratitude, from Challenging Yourself to Watching Others. Members of the reading group liked the fact that each story was short, so they could dip into it … Continue reading The Power of Positive
“Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway” by Susan Jeffers Review I just love it when I come across a Self-Help book that speaks to me 100% in the moment. I’ve known of this book for many years and never felt called to buy it or read it. Last weekend, I got a strong urge to call my local bookshop and see if they had … Continue reading Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
“The Yacoubian Building” by Alaa Al Aswany (Egypt) Review Readers loved this book! They warmed to the different characters who they described as vivid and well developed. They liked how each one evolved throughout the story as either their situation improved or deteriorated. They also liked the contrasts between the secular and religious lifestyles of the characters. Readers loved the setting of the building with … Continue reading The Yacoubian Building
“Slaughterhouse 5” by Kurt Vonnegut (U.S.) In February 2017, as one of the Author Specials that were a part of the Story Connector Literature Circle, we had a lively discussion on Kurt Vonnegut‘s quirky books, original ideas, and views on American society! Readers said that they would so love for him to be around now so they could hear him wax satirical about current affairs. … Continue reading Slaughterhouse 5
“The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan (United States) Review For a couple of readers it was the second time they had read this book and they remembered liking it more the first time around. Everyone agreed that it was an enjoyable read but they said that the alternating stories from the eight protagonists caused them confusion: they had difficulty remembering who was who as … Continue reading The Joy Luck Club
“By Night the Mountain Burns” by Juan Tomás Ávila Laurel (Equatorial Guinea) Review There were mixed feelings about this book as some readers struggled with the stream-of-consciousness style of writing. Those who enjoyed it loved the flow of the story describing it as lyrical and dreamlike. They said it felt like listening to a friend telling them about their childhood and they could relate to it. … Continue reading By Night the Mountain Burns
“Island of a Thousand Mirrors” by Nayomi Munaweera (Sri Lanka) One of Nicola’s 100 Best Books for Inspiration in the 21st century! Book Club Favourite of Season 20 Review Readers were unanimous in their appreciation of this book. They described the writing style as beautiful and of high calibre for a first novel. It awakened all their senses, drawing them into the story and bringing the … Continue reading Island of a Thousand Mirrors
“In the Beginning Was the Sea” by Tomás González (Colombia) Review Despite the fact that some readers liked the book while others didn’t, everyone agreed that it was an easy read. With short chapters and at just over 150 pages long, readers zipped through what some described as a well-written, depressing modern-day fable. They liked the setting and felt that the author manages to convey a … Continue reading In the Beginning Was the Sea
Nicola's Book Club 