Read two books and call me in the morning.

  T. J. Klune's The House in the Cerulean Sea is a whimsical and heartwarming tale that has captivated readers worldwide, earning it a place on the New York Times bestseller list. The story follows Linus Baker, a by-the-book caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, as he embarks on a mission to assess Marsyas Island Orphanage, a home for six supposedly dangerous magical children. Klune's prose is enchanting, weaving a world of magic and wonder that feels both familiar and fantastical. The characters are endearing and memorable, each with their unique quirks and complexities. Arthur Parnassus, the orphanage's enigmatic caretaker, is a particularly captivating figure, his gentle demeanor and unwavering love for his wards providing a heartwarming contrast to the often harsh world outside. However, amidst the novel's undeniable charm lies a deeply troubling aspect. Klune acknowledges that his story draws inspiration from the "sixties scoop,...

Mark Lawrence, celebrated for his dark and imaginative storytelling, has gifted us with another enigmatic tale in The Book That Wouldn't Burn . At its heart, this book is a love letter to the written word and a vehement critique of those who would control access to information and technology. The reader follows Livira, an orphan raised outside of Crath in a barren wasteland known as the Dust, and Evar, a young man who lives within a vast chamber of the Library that is seemingly unknown in Livira's world. While it boasts magnificent worldbuilding, especially the intriguing magical Library of Crath, some uneven pacing and a lack of a strong connection between the two main protagonists, Livira and Evar, leave room for improvement.  What Lawrence does exceptionally well in this novel is his unwavering reverence for the printed word and the power of literature. The story unfolds in a world where access to books is tightly controlled, and technology is under the iron grip of...

Barbie is a film that enters into the feminist conversation, aiming to address issues that have long plagued our society. However, while the film tackles essential themes, it doesn't break new ground in feminist discourse. Nevertheless, it does bring an interesting blend of existentialism and symbolism into the mix, raising questions about identity, self-discovery, and societal constructs. The film's feminism is undoubtedly important, but it doesn't introduce revolutionary ideas. It revisits the age-old struggle of women in a society dominated by unrealistic beauty standards and gender roles. Barbie, the protagonist, represents the epitome of these unrealistic standards. She's the embodiment of perfection, which she grapples with throughout the film. However, the film doesn't offer any groundbreaking insights into these issues; instead, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for gender equality and self-acceptance. What sets Barbie apart from traditional fe...

  In Morgan is My Name , Sophie Keetch unveils a masterful and transformative retelling of the Arthurian legend, shattering the conventional portrayal of Morgan LeFay as a malevolent enchantress. With skillful prose and a profound feminist perspective, Keetch breathes new life into this timeless character, crafting a narrative that champions intelligence, ambition, strength, and authenticity in a society dominated by patriarchal norms. The Arthurian tales have long been dominated by a narrow depiction of Morgan LeFay as a conniving and sinister figure, her actions fueled by malicious intent and often attributed to her "feminine wiles." Keetch courageously undertakes the task of unraveling this one-dimensional portrayal, crafting a three-dimensional, multifaceted character that embodies the strength and resilience of womanhood. Morgan emerges not as a villainous enchantress, but as a woman of unwavering determination, possessing the willpower to shape her own destiny. Keetch...

Diana Gabaldon's latest installment in the Outlander series, Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone , is a masterful tapestry of historical fiction and familial relationships that leaves readers both enthralled and yearning for more. Gabaldon's unwavering commitment to historical accuracy, though commendable, contributes to the book's heft, while her focus on family dynamics infuses the story with depth and emotion. However, for readers disinterested in certain character arcs, the journey may occasionally falter. Gabaldon's dedication to historical research is undeniable. The vivid and immersive portrayal of 18th-century North Carolina stands as a testament to her meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect of daily life, from clothing to customs, is flawlessly depicted, thrusting readers into a richly textured world that breathes authenticity. The level of detail in matters like medical practices, cultural norms, and political tensions underscores Gabaldon's dedication t...

In Yellowface Kuang skillfully delves into the publishing industry's often superficial attempts to appear inclusive and diverse. With biting satire and sharp wit, Kuang examines the industry's obsession with tokenism, represented through the character of Athena Liu, a talented writer of color who becomes the latest sensation. She delivers a thought-provoking and incisive exploration of the publishing industry's problematic dynamics, cultural appropriation, and the struggles faced by minority writers. Kuang delves into the complexities of identity, representation, and the demands placed on authors of color in a thought-provoking novel that forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about racism, cultural appropriation, and the lengths some individuals will go for personal gain. At the heart of the story is June Hayward, our unreliable narrator. June is an aspiring writer struggling to break into the publishing world. Her character serves as a vessel for Kuang to explor...