The Silent Whispers

Hi invisible readers,

I apologize for failing to post #FridayReads last week. I just missed the date and I didn't have any particular reasons.

Personally, this week has been a little tough as I sought to restart my job hunting efforts. Let's just say that unemployment can take a toll on one's wellbeing.

However, this is why I enjoy this book blog. Even when I leave really negative reviews, the whole process of reading is highly external and escapist. By reading I am immersed in a reality that is not full of job ads and uncomfortable networking requests. Instead, I am transported to India (Life of Pi) to the musings of an optimist (The Silver Linings Playbook), to a young high schooler crushing on her favourite athelete (Hana-Kimi) and even, to the solemn reflections of a butler (The Remains of the Day). I appreciate that graduating has given me the opportunity to rediscover the pleasure of reading.

And in spite of the feelings provoked by the immersion in these new, fictional worlds, the whole process remains external. There is no such thing as failure when being a reader. Reading slumps, difficult passages, sudden neglect of books are not a reflection of the self; unlike, say bad grades at school or the anxiety of not getting call-backs. Whatever I read or say does not reflect who I am or my place in this all-to-injust society. Of course, someone may state that one's failures are not a reflection of who one is as a person but I think that the 'to-do-is-to-be" mindset is already too ingrained in cultures.

Onto reading itself. I am so grieved that I have misplaced my copy of the Great Gatsby.  :( Until, I find it I will focusing on reading other books such as What Do Women Want? Adventures in the Science of Female Desire, by Daniel Bergner. I have also finally finished my super secret series-- Hana-Kimi. Feel free to check out the review here.

In the meanwhile, you can expect the following upcoming reviews:

• Arise Magazine and New African Woman
• The Silver Linings Playbook (the movie)

I will probably also be writing an article about "good writing," and "writing bad reviews." I know that this Friday Reads was slightly different because I began with a reflection on why I enjoy reading for pleasure. 

That's it from me. xox, S.