This book was absolutely insane in the best possible way. It almost felt like you were reading an action movie. It was extremely fast-paced. At the same time, the narrative perspective was really distant, so you have almost no idea about the characters' feelings and motivations. Only the most surface thoughts are shared with the reader. It was a very unique novel, and I felt like I learned a lot about the craft from this book, while enjoying a funny, gruesome, and wildly unique novel.
“Wholly original . . . the work of the newest major talent in fantasy.”—The Wall Street Journal
“Freakishly compelling . . . through heart-thumping acts of violence and laugh-out-loud moments, this book practically dares you to keep reading.”—Atlanta Magazine
A missing God. A library with the secrets to the universe. A woman too busy to notice her heart slipping away.
Carolyn's not so different from the other people around her. She likes guacamole and cigarettes and steak. She knows how to use a phone. Clothes are a bit tricky, but everyone says nice things about her outfit with the Christmas…
This book was just food for the soul. It took topics we all struggle with, like grief, attachment, and loneliness, and gave a very fresh perspective on coping. I particularly loved the relationship between Benny and his mother. It was an amazing balance of sad and delicate as well as iron-clad, and I think that reflects the complexity of deep human connections. Our relationships flow like rivers through our lives, and every square inch of them is its own unique experience. All of the characters in this book were vital and more importantly brought vitality to the narrative. It's a great read if you need something cozy but with substance.
"No one writes like Ruth Ozeki-a triumph." -Matt Haig, New York Times bestselling author of The Midnight Library
"Inventive, vivid, and propelled by a sense of wonder." -TIME
"If you've lost your way with fiction over the last year or two, let The Book of Form and Emptiness light your way home." -David Mitchell, Booker Prize-finalist author of Cloud Atlas
Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction
A boy who hears the voices of objects all around him; a mother drowning in her possessions; and a Book that might hold the secret to saving them both-the brilliantly inventive new novel…
I actually read the entire Shades of Magic trilogy last year, but it makes sense to recommend the first book in the series. I've come to really appreciate V.E. Schwab for her diverse tales, and this trilogy hit the mark for me. The characters were interesting and engaging, and the relationships between them complex. The magic system and alternate Londons were extremely well-crafted. The pacing, story progression, and character development was all strong, and it made for an extremely satisfying, short fantasy series. I highly recommend it if you are looking to break up a large epic with a short, punchy series with satisfying world-building and character development.
A stunning collector's edition of the acclaimed novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling author V.E. Schwab.
With an exclusive metallic ink cover, this edition will feature:
* End papers of London * Fan art * A glossary of Arnesian and Antari terms * An interview between author and editor * Original (never before seen!) tales from within the Shades of Magic world
Kell is one of the last Antari-magicians with a rare, coveted ability to travel between parallel Londons. There is Red London, where life and magic are revered, Grey London, without magic and ruled by mad King…
Geri o Shimasu: Adventures of a Baka Gaijin invites readers on a witty, unfiltered romp through 2008 Japan as experienced by Alia Luria, a self-proclaimed "clueless foreigner." Luria dives headfirst into the quirks and challenges of Japanese culture, from decoding onsen etiquette and enduring public embarrassment to exploring the oddities of love hotels and the loneliness of bustling crowds. With laugh-out-loud anecdotes and moments of poignant self-reflection, she unpacks the universal hilarity and humanity of navigating the unfamiliar. Whether she's fumbling through train etiquette, braving bizarre foods, or embracing the messy beauty of cultural exchange, Luria's candid storytelling is blunt, occasionally cringeworthy, and always unapologetically real. This collection is a hilarious and heartfelt reminder of the chaotic, awkward, and transformative adventures that shape us all.
