Mosaic

When I was in my senior year in college, our Professor made us watch a movie about a Pakistani husband who kidnapped his American wife and their children. This movie has made a very deep mark in me that when I tumbled upon Mosaic, and read the synopsis, I just cannot ignore it.

I guess the 9/11 attack has opened a lot of people’s minds and made us think about many things in our lives. This was exactly what happened to Dina’s family.

she's beautiful, isn't she?

This book will leave you dumbfounded on the “ridiculousness” of Karim’s psyche. But at the same time you cannot blame him for his being protective to his children. At times, you will find yourself scheming, holding your breath, and even planning for the children. And when everything was set to motion, all you can do is to join along the ride and hope for the best.

For the mothers who will read this, you will look at your husbands is a different light, and will love your children more. It might make you more cautious, more strict, more protective; or, you might be more loving, more affectionate and more understanding. But one thing that I’m quite sure you will do after reading this is to pray and hope that you will never get to experience what Dina has went through.

 

The Kite Runner

One Word: Intense.

I do not even know where to start! The book was as excellent as A Thousand Splendid Suns, although I have yet decided which one is better. I like them both!

Khaled is such a good storyteller, he takes you to the old Aghanistan, a place both familiar and unfamiliar to us. Afghanistan has been very common to us; or rather, Afghanistan has stirred our curiosity only after the 9/11 attack. Before 9/11, we are not really that interested with Afghanistan or Afghans, and they live their own lives, conduct their own business without anyone giving them a second look. But now, Afghanistan is very common and such a novelty to us at the same time. It is a novelty in such a way that we do not even know before that they have their own war even prior to 9/11. We are not fully knowledgeable that Afghans have been fighting for peace for the longest time, only to be caught up in another war of the current generation. And these, Khaled has painted in this novel very intricately.

Reading The Kite Runner would make you realize how important honor, honesty, and loyalty were. You will also learn how precious second chances and self-redemption could be.

In the end, I think Hassan will always be my hero in this novel. Nobody can question his loyalty, and everybody will envy Amir for the unconditional love Hassan has given him.

It is only at the last page of this novel, after the very last paragraph that all of the emotions that evolved throughout the book came hitting my chest. It is only then that I felt everything. It is also only then that I cried.

And so I think everything that Hassan has endured for Amir were all worth it. And I also think that Sohrab is Amir's redemption. 

Thus, for Amir and Hassan, "a thousand times over".

 

Ambition Destiny Victory

I've always wanted to see the behind-the-scenes of everything. I don't really trust "press releases" because I know that these are designed to express whatever is their intention. They generally do not display the real story. Ambition, Destiny, Victory was the perfect tool to read if you want to know what really happened during the 2012 Presidential Election. It provided data, insights, interview excerpts, backgrounder, and everything in-between.

With this book, some "controversies" during the election season where answered, explained, and so much more. At times you will find it hard to believe that a certain person can do something unacceptable, but you will also find things to laugh about, especially Erap's quotable quotes.

 

The Emperor's Tomb

Midway the second chapter of this novel, I cannot help but recall a very dear character that was deeply embedded in my memory: Salander. i keep on associating Cassiopeia with Lisbeth Salander of the internationally acclaimed Millennium Trilogy.

I love Steve Berry's work. This is my first time to read Steve Berry and I already like how his mind works. Although this novel is part of a series, this book can also stand alone because of the explanations given for every references to the other books.

I am now very curious to read the past Cotton Malone novels and even those first novels that are not part of this series.

One complaint though is that the editing kind of sucks! Aside from some typographical errors here and there, I got confused when references to other characters are not made clearer. Especially when they use third person references. There's also one incident where the name should be Cotton's but was written as Cassiopeia's.

Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin

I used to like Bob Ong's books especially the first book, ABNKKBSNPLAKO?! but after Stainless Longganisa, Bob Ong's grasp on me began slipping away. I also love MacArthur; I think that one has the most sensible and serious story.

Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin just did not make any redemption. Although I agree with the idea of exposing and at the same time offering an explanation for every points exposed of movie-making in the Philippines. I think he could have written it in his blog or something and I would have appreciate it. But not as a novel. Now, I am still thinking if I should buy Mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan or just give up on Bob Ong works.

   

Para Kay B

Na-inlove ka na ba? Naging masaya ka ba o na-devastate?

Ang paniniwala ni Lucas ay 4 out of 5 ang nade-devastate ng pag-ibig. Ang opinyon naman ng mga karakter niya ay dinamay lang ni Lucas ang mga karakter niya dahil broken-hearted siya.

Naniniwala din ako na 4 out of 5 sa mga kwento dito ay totoo, tulad ng mga tomboy, ambisyosa o kahit pa ng maling pag-ibig. Bilib din ako sa imahinasyon ni Ricky Lee para maisip na merong manhid na lugar sa mundo na parati mo'ng matatagpuan basta't paikutin mo lang ang globe.

Naniniwala ako na ang librong ito ang magbibigay pag-asa sa isang broken-hearted, inspirasyon sa hindi pa nai-inlove, at para magpaka-totoo ang mga nagtatago ng kanilang totoo'ng pagkatao.

Sa huli, hindi lang kuwento nila Jordan o Sarah ang laman ng nobelang ito kundi pati kuwento ni Lucas na siyang "sumulat" ng istoryang ito. At oo, kuwento mo rin at kuwento ko.

   

Slumdog Millionaire

What do you "see" when you see a child scavenging from a trash can outside fastfood chains? Or when you see a child riding or travelling alone? What do you "see" when you see disabled children begging alms on the streets?

All of these and more were experienced by the hero of this fairy tale, Ram Mohammad Thomas. Who would have thought that this orphan, who's living in the slums, scavenges food, robs, and is only a waiter with no formal education, will win in a quiz show? And it is with this curiosity and doubt that unfolded his life-story that will leave you literally breathless.

One thing that this novel has proven is that undeniably, experience really is the best teacher. Without the hardships that Ram had experienced, he would not have met the people who taught him ways of life, and lead him to the experiences that had won him one billion rupees. I am also at awe of Ram's generosity for giving back the blessing and sharing it with the people whom he loves so dearly.

I'm so glad that Slumdog Millionaire did not disappoint me. I have been meaning to read this book back when the movie was shown, but it just sort of slipped out of my mind. When copies of this book are of abundance again in the bookstore I frequent, I was encouraged to buy it, after a long, long time. But I was also hesistant because I was afraid that it might disappoint me. But of course, I eventually gave in. After the first few pages, I was a little skeptic still, but Vikas really captured my attention and held on it until the whole novel ends.

Choke

Choke, generally dealt with people suffering from mental problems, sexual addiction, and different gimmicks people do in order to live, and let their love ones live.

Honestly, I have set a very high expectation for this book, beacuse of the hype all over the internet. I was expecting to be blown away by fantastic ideas, and all that. That's what other people say about Choke so I was really expecting to experience those. But, well, it ended up to be a disappointment.

I had to drag myself all the way through the book. I tried to find something in the plot that will interest me, and hold my attention; but I failed miserably.

I think Chuck Palahniuk and Haruki Murakami have something in common; I find both of their works to be very psychological. Their works have this psychological factor in them and this makes reading them quite an effort. Thus I find their books something I cannot relate with. 

The Floating Book Fair

image shot by Rouelle Umali

I was so excited when I read in a broadsheet that there will be a floating book fair here in Manila. I have never been into one and I got more excited when I read about the incredulously cheap-priced books. It was after further reading news and bits about the floating book fair that I found out that they have been conducting this for a few years already. But they have changed the vessel from MV Duolos to a bigger MV Logos Hope. They changed into a bigger vessel because they want to accommodate more people. So, off I went and joined our crew who covered the opening ceremony of the floating book fair.

The opening ceremony is fun. They have I think 400 to 500 crews of about 50 nationalities aboard Logos Hope. Some of them were introduced on stage wearing their national costume, including our very own representatives, wearing barong tagalog, and baro't saya. Then, I think the most fun part (beside the books, of course), is the production number of their African Choir. They sung and danced, accompanied by their own live band, and although they sang it in their language, the song was lively and the blending was good.

Then, after a few speeches, came the moment I have been waiting for. The books! I was like a child when I finally saw the books. My eyes kept on dashing here and there. One thing that I appreciate the most is that they have put labels on the shelves, so even from afar, you know what books are on those shelves. It is pretty helpful because when its as crowded as it was that day, I know which shelves I can skip, and which shelves I should risk my life for in order to get there.

image shot by Rouelle Umali

It was also good to see that they have dedicated half of the area for children's books. So I think, they really are sincere in their advocacy in "bringing knowledge, health, and hope". Overall, I got only three books as it is quite difficult to navigate around because of the crowd, and time pressure. So, I plan to go back before they leave on the 13th of March, and buy more books. You will also find a section there for some souvenir items and I find their souvenir items useful and beautiful too.

 

A Thousand Splendid Suns

I was breathless, and exhausted after reading A Thousand Splendid Suns. I felt like I was physically with Laila throughout her journey from Pakistan, to Herat, and finally to Kabul.

Of all the “No.1 New York Times bestseller” novels that I have ever read (although only a few), this one is one of those that is really deserving of the rank. We all have read, heard, and watched articles, interviews, and news, about Afghanistan especially after the 9/11 attack; but who had known Afghanistan prior 9/11? Who had known, whether consciously or unconsciously about Afghanistan and their own wars? How about the wars against Afghans, women, children, husbands, fathers, wives, sisters? This is our chance. Khaled has told the finest story about his country, full of varying emotions. I am amazed that his story expanded into a vast range of stories.

I also cannot help but be very appreciative of Khaled who acknowledges through this novel that women, if provoked, can stand up for themselves. Mariam and Laila fought and freed themselves together from Rasheed. They did not let him win over them. They did so for their love for each other, and for their love for their children; and even if they started as contenders.

I was also touched by Jalil’s story. It really is true that one can only realize how much a person means to him when the person is already gone. How I wish that Jalil had formed a backbone way back when Mariam had just lost Nana. How I wish yet again that Mariam read the letter Jalil left for her at the door. And yet, all of those are part of reality of life. 

In this story you will find parental love, romantic love, brotherly love, and sisterly love. You will also be amazed to know that even in this kind of mess, when seeing goodness is quite unattainable, you will find a story of strangers helping each other even as strange as entrusting an inmate not to endanger you, as what Sayeed has done.

Mr. Darcy's Diary

After reading Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen a while ago, I happened to stumble upon Mr. Darcy’s Diary while scouring a bookstore’s shelves. I bought a copy hoping that it will clear up some questions in my mind and of course as with most, if not all, women, I also want to know what were the things going on inside Mr. Darcy’s mind. Or generally speaking, how does a man’s mind works? Well, taking note of the fact that Pride and Prejudice was written a long, long time ago; not to mention that it is fiction, it really is intriguing the way a man thinks. So, just to have a peek inside Mr. Darcy’s mind, I finally gave in and bought myself a copy after a long deliberation.

Although I am really excited to read this novel, I find Mr. Darcy’s Diary a little dragging. Maya used Old English in her book but using it is a little inconsistent. Nevertheless, it gave me a window, a chance, to peek in and have a glimpse of what Mr. Darcy was thinking. In Pride and Prejudice, we mostly read about what Liz thinks, so this one might give you some answers to your curiosity. It also explains some scenes from Pride and Prejudice a little more clearly, and in a fashionable manner.

I also understood the romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy much better through this, although I find it being more intense using Jane Austen’s method. Well, who can blame me? Anyway, I admit that I am a sucker for serious, cold men who eventually bare their soul to and for the women they love.

Holly's Inbox

Who wouldn't love a vector-designed, pastel colored cover on a chic-lit novel? And, who wouldn't want to take a peek on somebody else's inbox, much more snoop around and read every single email of somebody else's inbox?

cute ain't it?

These two things are the first things that lured me to read Holly's Inbox. I love the cool-to-the-eyes cover, and of course, the office table vector-design cover. At first I was reluctant to read this because I'm afraid I might get bored reading e-mails after e-mails, but as I have read almost the same format of a mail before (see: Love Rosie), and I had enjoyed reading that one, I finally gave in and read it.

Holly's Inbox is a fun read. Whenever you feel down, stressed, tired, and when you feel so burdened, this is the one novel that you would like to pick up.

While reading it, I find myself laughing uncontrollably more than three times, not mentioning the giggles and chuckles in-between. Although a thick book, I finished reading it in less than two days. That is how enjoyable it is.

thick, considering it's trade paperback

But Holly's Inbox also taught me a thing or two. One is, do not believe in everything a guy says. Learn how to decipher a coded booty call. Second being, over-judging a person by being together for a short period of time. The saying "do not judge a book by its cover" fits perfectly here.

I'm happy that Holly and Toby got back together although I think it is quite superficial. I just hope that they did not make it a novel version of a TV drama. But all in all, really a fun read. In fact, I'm waiting for the next installment already.

The Joy of Books

This video has become viral through various social media sites a while ago, but I have watched it only now thus the late post.

Have you ever wondered how books behave behind close doors? Sound silly? Maybe. But I know that the little child in us will surely like this video that was put together by Sean Ohlenkamp and friends and uploaded to YouTube.

So without further ado, The Joy of Books, now showing...

Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata

Its Heart's Day today and I want to post a review about a love story as a celebration for this romantic day, but I realized that I do not have a love story review in the waiting. I searched and searched until I decided to do this one instead. This one is a love story in its own rights, anyway.

So here it goes...

Naniniwala ka ba sa mga aswang at tikbalang? Eh sa mga manananggal? Eh pa'no kung manananggal na bakla? Sa bagong nobela ni Ricky Lee, matutuwa ka sa thought na puwede nga pala'ng magkaroon ng mag-syotang manananggal, teacher na hati, at baklang lumilipad. In short, it's a manananggals' world. At ang mas nakakaloka, may multiple personality pa ang bakla! Oh, sa'n ka pa?! Pero hindi lang 'yon. Ang haba pa ng hair nitong baklang ito dahil may papa na totoong na-inlove sa kaniya. Pati ang anak ng papa, mahal ang hitad!

Pero, paano kung sa gitna ng problemang may multiple personality, manananggal na at... may misyon pa?! Akalain mo bang hinangad niya at (mas shocking) itinakda siyang maging tagapagligtas ng Pilipinas? Carry niyo 'yon?!

First two pages pa lang tawa na ako ng tawa. Hindi siya advisable na dalhin at basahin sa pampublikong lugar dahil tatawa ka talaga at 'di mo mapipigilan. Pero siyempre may aspetong pamilya rin ito kaya 'di mawawala ang konting luha at lungkot. Pero mostly you will laugh your ass off.

Magaling talaga si Ricky Lee. Sobrang hanga ako sa kaniya at lalo ko siyang nagustuhan dahil kay "Ate Amy". Tingin ko mas mabilis basahin itong Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata kumpara sa Para Kay B. Mas straight to the point at iba sa medyo maligoy na Para Kay B. Mas politikal para sa akin ang Para Kay B. Ang Amapola ay may aspetong politikal rin pero sinulat ito sa paraan'g well-incorporated sa istorya.

Maganda ang librong ito. Cover pa lang hahanga ka na. At matutuwa ka sa mapa ng Tomas Morato sa back cover (cute ng "handwriting"). At ang mas nakakatuwa ay naisipan pa nila maglagay ng bookmark sa libro.

Over-all, joy read ito (redundant na, alam ko). Pero ngayon pa lang sinasabi ko na hindi happy ang ending nito, tulad din ng sa totoong buhay. Salamin din ito ng totoong buhay, tulad ng sinabi ni Amapola na sa huli babae pa rin ang hahanapin ni Homer.

"Mahusay siya (Zaldy). Kumikita siya. Iniipon niya para kay Amapola dahil bulagsak ito sa pera."

Happy New Year!

What makes you buy a certain book?

Do you buy a book because of the hype it created? Do you buy a book because it is one of the bestsellers? Do you buy a book based on recommendations from people you know? or Do you buy a book just because of the attractive book cover? Is it important for a book to be popular for you to buy it? or are you "adventurous" enough to try a book that is almost never heard of?

Some people buy books because they are fans of the author. Some people buy books without knowing what they bought at all. As for me, I have a multiple personality regarding book buying. I used to buy books that has created hype among friends, then books started to attract my attention in the bookstore so I end up picking a title or two after reading the blurbs at the back cover. I still do both types of book buying but since book prices have become higher over time, I started to slow down and be more careful when buying books. I actually have a guideline when buying books. My price limit for mass paperbacks is Php300 but of course, I sometimes give exemptions which will not exceed Php400. I seldom buy trade paperbacks but if I have been drooling for it for a good while already, I also buy some as long as the price tag never reach Php600. And I also have exception in this trade paperback category; which is for historical fiction and non-fictions, my ceiling price is Php700. But one thing is for sure, I have never bought a book that bears a 4-digit price tag.

One lesson I have also learned in buying books is that some "great" books are just overhyped. That if you feel like you are not going to enjoy it by reading the blurbs, maybe it's better to wait it out. Haruki Murakami has created so much hype over his work Norwegian Wood. I did everything to like it but I just.. well.. it was not for me. So another thing that I learned is to read book reviews. There are so many book reviews out there from magazines to book bloggers, just be sure to read not only one review so that you can take glimpses from different angles. 

Happy reading everybody!

I have read 32 books last 2011. I am looking forward to be reading at least 35 books this year. I hope I achieve this goal.