I found this book very informative about myself and the society I live in. It was written by Susan Cain, who is an introvert, a personality type that prefers being quite to outgoing (extrovert). This book discusses how our society became dominated by the "Culture of Personality" as opposed to the pervious "Culture of Character" and how introverts can contribute in that culture. Many introverts, of which I am one, feels left out or talked over in the world we live in. We like quite time and do our best work when we are left alone or in small groups. The current work culture, especially of large corporations, seem to believe that great work only comes from large, outgoing groups. The author discusses when the societal changes took place as well as cultural differences. She puts forward ideas on how introverts can still contribute to our work and society. She also gives some ideas for parents of introverted children, who are naturally quite or are not as outgoing as other children, that can help their children grow and navigate the friendships they form. I feel this book can also be useful to others who have quite friends and even those in a leadership position who have people who prefer to work alone or rarely speak up in meetings (there might be reason). After all according to this book, studies have shown that one third to one half of Americans are introverts.
The Moonstone, by Wilkie Collins, is a mystery in a mystery. It is a mystery novel that follows the story of a diamond from India that is not only stolen from its original custodians, but from a family in England that comes into possession of it. There are several questions that will be answered: How did the diamond come to England? How was the diamond stolen from the family? How did the diamond get to London? Does the diamond return to India or does it remain in England?
The Moonstone is one of the first modern mystery novels that helped create the genre and set the rules for mystery/detective fiction. It is written in a series of letters by the characters to understand what has happened. The story might be a bit slow in certain places (situations need to be set up), but it is an enjoyable read as both a mystery and an exploration of how the modern mystery began.
"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen is an excellent classic romance book. I usually don't like romance books. They usually seems flat and uninteresting to me. However, Austen is an author I love to read. Not only does this book handle Elizabeth's and Mr. Darcy's character growth into lovers. Austen handles themes of class differences, gender roles, and family connections. This novel is more than just a one dimensional romance story. This is a story about the interactions of people and how they handle those interactions. "Pride and Prejudice" is a novel that I highly recommend.
A worthy classic that touches on themes of glory, honor, pride, death, fate, and families during a war. There is much too learn from this work that has been passed down to us. Read and enjoy
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