It seems my initial zeal of reading has slowed down a bit. I only read two books last month.
I am still six ahead in my GoodReads book challenge. And, I still have to open my BOTM for May.
This will be short and sweet so I can get back to what I'm currently reading.
The Last Equation of Isaac Severy: A Novel in Clues
by Nova JacobsThis was my March Book of the Month selection.
I liked this book. But, as a fan of The Westing Game, I wish it wasn't compared to it. That comparison was disappointing. This is not a hunt for the fortunes of an eccentric millionaire.
Money was not the driving force behind the main character trying to make good on her adopted grandfather's dying wish. And, it was pretty dark. Child abuse, suicide, and vengeance are major themes as well as acceptance and forgiveness.
That said, Last Equation of Isacc Severy was a good read. I feel like there was something missing and I can't put my finger on it. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys small plot twists and chaos theory.
The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After
by Clemantine WamariyaI didn't realize that the two books I read last month were BOTM selections! This tells me I need to get to the library.
The Girl who Smiled Beads was April's selection. I loved this book. I could not put it down, finishing it in two days. It's brilliant.
Humbling and inspiring, Clemantine Wamariya weaves an amazing story of courage and the power of self-preservation.
It is so hard for me not to feel guilty when complaining about mundane things now. Thinking of what she went through to escape the horrors of being a refugee, coming to America not knowing if her parents were okay, to how her sister still had to hustle and scrape after getting away makes everything else pale.
I also question how some Americans think that escaping a war-torn country to America is easy.
Clementine Wamariya learns to mask her fear, anger, and anguish. While her story does have a better ending than most in her situation, she seems to have a hopeful optimism that comes through even in the darkest parts of her journey.
Next month I'm reading Children of Blood and Bones and Still Lives.
Consider joining me in the Book of the Month Club! Books you may not have ever discovered, shipped to your home.
