Solid (but short) short story collection on the Haitian diaspora. Some stories didn't hit and others I wished weRead around the world project - Haiti
Solid (but short) short story collection on the Haitian diaspora. Some stories didn't hit and others I wished were longer! This is my first piece from Gay and I found her writing both readable and immersive. I'm eyeing both Bad Feminist and Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body now....more
I really liked the structure on this short story collection - we follow four Moroccan characters immigrating toRead around the world project - Morocco
I really liked the structure on this short story collection - we follow four Moroccan characters immigrating to Spain via a night crossing the Straight of Gibraltar. The first four chapters look at their motivations pre-crossing, and the last four chapters take place afterward. I liked how this structure allowed Lalami to look into various immigration motivations for Moroccans across all walks of life (lack of opportunity being a big factor) and the harsh realities of those that succeed (or do not succeed) in their crossing to Spain.
I have read Lalami in the past and do prefer The Moor's Account over Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits, but Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits is more appropriate for a read-the-world project.
I think tragicomedy is a good description of this book. It read more like a series of interconnected stories beRead around the world project - Moldova
I think tragicomedy is a good description of this book. It read more like a series of interconnected stories between various villagers than a single unfolding plot, although the ultimate goal (reaching the promised land of Italy) remains constant between all characters. Some of the humor hit, but most was silly, and there is not a single decent portrayal of a woman in the 200 pages!!
Monique and the Mango Rains far exceeded my expectations! I was a lil apprehensive to choose a book by a white AmeRead around the world project - Mali
Monique and the Mango Rains far exceeded my expectations! I was a lil apprehensive to choose a book by a white American woman about her time in Mali w/ the Peace Corps, but ultimately really appreciated Holloway's tone, openness, vulnerability and honesty in this memoir. I also think her friendship with Monique felt real and special, (view spoiler)[and the author's commitment to helping Monique's children after her death touching (hide spoiler)]. I learned a lot about the state of women and children's health in Mali (specifically pregnancy and childcare), women's responsibilities/expectations, as well as the broader cultural dynamics within the Monique's village. The audiobook's narration was also really good. Overall - highly recommend! ...more
Engaging/quick read, and I think a solid pick for this type of #readtheworld project. I especially liked howRead around the world project - Mauritania
Engaging/quick read, and I think a solid pick for this type of #readtheworld project. I especially liked how distinct the father and son's voices were, but I can't help wishing we had the mother's perspective as well......more
It was cool to hear the author's experiences and perspectives in her own words. I know this is dated (almost Read around the world project - Honduras
It was cool to hear the author's experiences and perspectives in her own words. I know this is dated (almost 40 years old) but it made me want to read up on Alvarado's life since. Definitely need to learn more about US intervention in Honduras!