The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake: Aimee Bender -My sadness came when this book drew to a conclusion. Ironically, I read it nearly at the same time as my sister and we had radically different points of view and feelings on the book itself and then the ending. As far as I'm concerned, Ms. Bender is skill full in devising a magical tale, focused around Rose Edelstein, a little girl (in third grade at the beginning of this story) who can literally taste the emotions in those who prepare her food. She discovers this skill/curse when she 'tastes' her mother's sadness and dissatisfaction in life in the lemon cake made explicitly for her birthday. This tale is woven skillfully by Bender as Rose grows up and her life is affected profoundly by this revelation. The description of the family and their emotional handicaps is nothing short of beautiful and makes it evident that Bender has a serious talent for delving into the human soul. Although the ending might be beyond the believability quotient for most, I implore any to read this tale. Even if the specifics seem fantastical, Bender's writing and understanding of the human psyche make the 304 pages fly by without an awareness of length/time.
The Hunger Games: Suzanne Collins I was shocked to find out that this book is categorized for young adults. Not so much for the writing itself, but the profound concepts behind the science fiction like story. Never, in my opinion, has a tougher female character, been more inherently likable. Katniss is a brave young woman faced with task of participating in these horrifying, gladiator like games, in a post-apocalyptic world in order to save her younger sister (Prim) from the same fate. There is so much to say about this book that I don't know where to start without giving it away. The book has the boy meets girl (in a death game), girl maybe loves two boys (Peeta versus Gale), component and then spirals quickly into a tale that leads to questions about what we, as humans, are capable of. The most amazing part of the story for me was that it wasn't beyond plausible reasoning that the human race could indeed get to this point one day. In other words, regress to Roman times when this sort of human sacrifice provided entertainment for the masses. Without giving away too much information on this wonderful book, I can only say that I was deeply disappointed at the cliffhanger ending and cannot wait to read the second book in the series (the continuation). So, along those lines, to be continued...
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Stieg Larsson- I suppose this book or series of books needs no real introduction as they are all the rage right now. Once I finished the first in the series, I can see why. Not only did the books remind me of my time in Sweden (familiar names, areas, etc.) but I was astounded when thinking of how the now deceased author's life was profoundly affected by the Swedish government as his characters experienced the same. I literally could not put this book down. I read it from cover to cover on the plane ride home from Spain. I intended to nap but didn't want to miss an opportunity to take in every word, line and page I could grab prior to disembarking. It turns out that was every page until the very last. This novel is exciting, mysterious, funny, beautiful and scary. The implications about government, socialism, religion, sexual abuse, relationships and media are outrageous and painfully true on so many levels. I find myself desperate to discover the essence/source of Lisbeth Salander's pain and anger and more excited to know what trouble she gets herself into in the second book of this three book series. I am only troubled to know that this talented writer passed before his time and didn't have the chance to bless us with additional writing(s).
However Tall the Mountain: A Dream, Eight Girls, and a Journey Home: Awista Ayub- This book tells of the true story of a group of girls from Afghanistan and their introduction to American soccer. It is a tale of cultural differences, discrimination (sexual and ethnic), and ultimately, self-awareness and transformation. Though I found the jump in character descriptions to be confusing at times, the overall story warmed my heart and inspired me to continue my work advocating for girls/women's rights around the globe. I was motivated by their bravery and passion in the face of extreme hatred, poverty, and fear mongering. It also gave me a serious sense of appreciation for that which I have available to me and the freedoms which I am permitted in this wonderful country. Though sexual discrimination certainly exists in this country, it is clearly not of the same magnitude. I was allowed to study, work and dream big about my future. I can only wish that we will, over time, give women around the world (particularly in these regions of the world) something that they can truly hope for and is within their reach (success, happiness, etc.). Every woman should read this story, but without question, so should every man.
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