Pyrroly
Very enjoyable read, though (and I hate use the word) the ‘virtue signalling' felt so heavy handed. Like, I agree systemic racism is bad, but what characters' literally say that out loud it just feels awkward.
Young, dumb, and full of...
Anyway. A lot of fun! Brought me back to my Twilight years. I'll definitely read the second.
Wouldn't say it's for diehard fantasy fans because it doesn't do anything particularly unique - but it's FUN.
I love disgusting things, and I love disgusting women. So yes, I loved this disgusting book. A manifesto indeed!
Listened to the audiobook.
It makes sense that JM narrated this book. I don't think I'd be able to handle somebody else reading out such harrowing and personal details of my own life, but she sounded rather detached throughout. That's not a criticism. Reliving such moments can't be any fun. It also lead me onto thinking about one should narrate non-fiction anyway.
I highly recommend this book, but it's a tough listen.
I was hesitant at first to enjoy this. I am not a fan of fiction books about real people. It helped that I know literally nothing of Maugham. This was a beautiful book. Tan Twan Eng knows how to write about loss, he knows how to write about love, and the unspoken agreements and tensions between people. Speaking of love, his love for Penang shines through the pages. I'm curious to know how this book would hold up for people who have read any Maugham, or know anything about him.
Overall touches on several things I agree with. I often think about what I would be like if I hadn't touched a computer lol. Not sure I'll ever get on board with nationalised social media, though. Still a little too pop-sciencey for me, but overall a message I agree with.