nights like this / book updates
Since last time:
The Rules Do Not Apply by Ariel Levy
An interesting life and outlook on motherhood and loss, but I found it difficult to empathize with Levy. She swerved into whininess or cultural insensitivity at unfortunate points in the book.
How Democracies Die: What History Reveals About Our Future by Steven Levitsky
Feels like a general historic overview of the fall of democracies, but I think it provides good insight into our current political situation and various risks that may arise. I would definitely recommend it if you have an interest in the future state of our democracy and understanding past scenarios in other countries that have toppled established democracies.
I Remember Nothing: And Other Reflections by Nora Ephron
Interesting stories of a well-known writer. I honestly didn’t find most of them that memorable, and so, a week after I read it, I don’t have anything to say about it. The title seems appropriate.
Letter to My Daughter by Maya Angelou
I probably should be more familiar with Angelou’s poetry, but unfortunately I am not. I think additional background would have made this even more of a worthy read, but I thoroughly enjoyed her outlook and reflections on life.
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami
Nothing groundbreaking. Perhaps it would be of more relevance if I was a runner. I enjoyed the insight into his writing process as a longtime fan, but otherwise it was not the most engaging read.
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
This woman is crazy and this story is crazy and I thoroughly enjoy her craziness. I don’t know whether her utter lack of preparation for the PCT is inspiring or not, but definitely made for an incredible story. One of my favorite memoirs that I’ve read so far. I read Tiny Beautiful Things by the same author a few years ago, and I felt that it gave more context to this book.