Challenge: 50 Books discussion

Another Year. Another Goal of 50 Books.
Here's a list of my 2019 reads:
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

My goal: 50 books!
[Insert commentary]

Wish List:
[Insert Commentary]

1) Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism; Fumio Sasaki 9Author), & Eriko Sugita (Translator); Jan 1; 2.6* (Audiobook)
This is one man's philosophy of minimalism. I can't say I agreed with everything he said (particularly when he was speaking about human tendencies in general), but it was interesting to read a minimalism book about a guy who gave zero fs -- and found a way to also include Fight Club references.

2) The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life; Mark Manson; Jan 5?; 3.3* (Audiobook)
More philosophy than useful info. Fun, but just ok. (Also, having been to Russia, I can attest that part's true.)

3) Reasons to Stay Alive; Matt Haig; Jan 10; 2.6* (Audiobook)
Not really helpful, but an interesting account of what it's like (for the author) to have anxiety (& depression, but mostly anxiety). I didn't find this particularly relatable or inspiring -- although kudos to him for writing it.

4) The Run-Walk-Run Method; Jeff Galloway; Jan 11; 3.6*
I like that the author is trying to make everyone rethink running. He makes some good arguments (run/ walk intervals as few as 5 seconds? who knew?) and the encouragement is nice. However, I did have a few issues. The end of the book is all just testimonials, and there were lots of drops for his products. He claims very few injuries prevent running (instead of acknowledging some injuries need to heal or are permanently debilitating, but doesn't discuss what these few injuries are -- which makes me think people will try to run when they shouldn't. I get there's a reason for that, but I disagree with the execution of that premise). In his book, many people were first time runners with no previous running injuries, so of course they're going to improve in leaps and bounds. Also, I'm glad he's good, but some areas were really overgeneralized. Having said all that, I'm hopeful about reframing my expectations and possibly getting back to running. (Distance if possible, but I'll take what I can get.)
Update: It doesn't look like I'll be able to get back into running after all, but at least I can share the useful bits of information I gleaned from this with others, so not a total loss.


5) Cut; Patricia McCormick; Jan 12; 2.4* (Audiobook)
The experiences weren't believable. (This feels like an example of when books are written by someone who hasn't been there, and is trying to write about something they know nothing about.) The psych sessions were annoying, but I think that's in their nature (so maybe that was believable, but not really). The ending was what I feel adults would want the ending to be; I don't know a better way to put that. (Also, I really disliked the narrator. Not the worst, but far from great.)
(Note: orig. 3*, but why?)

6) The Hoarder in You: How to Live a Happier, Healthier, Uncluttered Life; Robin Zasio; Jan 22; 4* (Audiobook)
Practical info.

7) I Hate Fairyland, Vol. 4: Sadly Never After; Skottie Young; Feb 7; 3*
I'm glad the series is over, honestly. It was a fun ride, although I never loved it quite the way others did. I don't think I would have ended the series quite the same way, but it's over now, and I can appreciate the concept as a whole.

8) Introvert Doodles: An Illustrated Collection of Life's Awkward Moments; Maureen "Marzi" Wilson; 2/19?; 4*
Several of these were fantastic. Most of these I identified with. Some of them even made me smile, in spite of myself.

9) The Everything Retirement Planning Book: A Complete Guide to Managing Your Investments, Securing Your Future, and Enjoying Life to the Fullest; Judith B. Harrington; Feb 23; 2* (Audiobook)
This began with useful information: 401k, 403b, the usual. Then living wills and whatnot. (Ok.) Then commune? Then nutrition advice? (I'll skip the commune comments and go straight to why is a CPA giving nutrition advice?) It ended with movie-matinee-special type recommendations. Overall, it started out good, but got weird (and useless, at least for me) real quick.

10) Binary Star; Sarah Gerard; Mar 7; 4* (Audiobook)
This is not for everyone. It's a story about a toxic relationship between an anorexic girl with astronomy on the mind, and an alcoholic trust-fund-baby guy. I found it interesting, in that I've never read anything quite like it. Their personal issues aren't the focus, but rather how they interplay into this dumpster-fire codependent/ abusive relationship. Strange, but genuine.

11) Shame Is an Ocean I Swim Across; Mary Lambert; Mar 14; 4.1* (Audiobook)
Mostly good. It's music. It's poetry. It's lyrical trauma. It's dark, emotional & honest. Probably not for everyone, but it's not supposed to be.

12) The Happy Vegan: A Guide to Living a Long, Healthy, and Successful Life; Russell Simmons (w/ Chris Morrow); Mar 16; 2.2*
This was a different take on the usual vegan conversion/ info book. It covered environmental, health and ethical reasons (mostly ethical) to go vegan. Also, this is the only vegan book I've read that specifically addressed the African American community, which I thought was interesting (in a good way). Other food options were suggested, but no recipes were included. Most of this book was personal anecdotes, and as such isn't well cited. Resources are limited to websites and cookbook recommendations (both of which were fine/ useful); I would've appreciated an additional page for all the books/ videos discussed (major missed opportunity). I do have a few issues with it, though. 1) I've never been to a Taco Bell that would exchange cheese for guacamole; everywhere I've been, TB won't even exchange sour cream for guacamole and implying that they would as a normal accommodation is -- quite frankly -- wrong. 2) Don't gaze at candles. Your eyes will thank you. 3) Don't quit all exercise except yoga. I felt his comments against running and lifting were incredibly bad recommendations (p50). 4) His thoughts about the major precautions enacted to prevent an Ebola outbreak in America are uninformed at best. I'm writing this during COVID-19, and thank my stars that this isn't Ebola (p73). 4) Perhaps my biggest pet peeve was how he would simultaneously slam Meatless Mondays and Meatless 'til 6, because that's only a half-measure (and folks should go full vegan), but then admit to and rationalize occasionally eating fish and chicken (and note other celebrities that do the same). It just makes him sound like a hypocrite and arguably defeats the purpose. (Instead, I would argue, one should encourage others to eat fewer animal-based products. Maybe that's eating plant-based one day a week, or one meal a day, or 24/7, or other variation -- but to ridicule good-faith attempts at a partial vegetarian/ vegan diet while simultaneously embracing going off-the-wagon is not a good message. I don't care if someone has an occasional piece of meat (that's their business), but I'm not going to discourage anyone from eating a plant-based diet -- in its many variations and forms -- by saying it isn't extreme enough. The way he wrote this book about becoming vegan, but also slammed gateway vegans, really frustrated me. Does he not realize he's insulting his target audience?

13) Alien: Echo; Mira Grant; Mar 18; 4.3* (Audiobook)
This was a fun teen sci-fi horror. I really appreciated the STEM emphasis when talking about other xeno- flora and fauna. If it was an original idea, I'd give it a 5, because the execution was solid. I also liked how the LGBT relationship was woven into the story (not as something exceptional, but as something normal, which was a nice take). (view spoiler)[However, I felt the beginning and middle were significantly better than end/ final sequence. (hide spoiler)]

14) The Girls at 17 Swann Street; Yara Zgheib; Mar 19; 4.7* (Audiobook)
This was good. I wish more books (particularly about mental illness, in its many forms) were written like this, with the variety of perspectives. 1st person of the primary character. Omniscient flashback to before the illness started, or was in full-swing. Dialogue that allowed the husband to share his perspective of what happened and how hard it's been on him, and also to demonstrate the firm straight-forwardness/ cruelty of the staff team ("direct care")/ nutritionist. The neutral reports of progress (treatment plan updates). There were so many angles, and they were each integrated beautifully. (view spoiler)[ I considered it a little upbeat, but perhaps a book like this needs to be, in order for readers to feel hopeful during a time of despair. (hide spoiler)] I also feel the author did a good job of conveying anxiety about food and weight gain (no easy task). (I didn't love the narrators voice, but won't hold that against an otherwise well-executed book.)

15) The Little Book of Self-Care: 200 Ways to Refresh, Restore, and Rejuvenate; Adams Media; Mar 20; 1.8*
Pointless, but easy to read. I liked the formatting (generally one idea per page), but the ideas themselves were mostly subpar. There was no shortage of recommendations with questionable value: using herbs & essential oils, hiring a medium for a seance, lots of meditation/ spiritual randomness, sex (maybe useful for someone else), discovering angels, etc. Most of it was repeated throughout, just phrased differently. Some were even conflicting: don't use energy on Earth Day, but throw your sheets and blanket in the dryer before bed. Having said that, everything isn't worthless: walk, stretch, annual medical checkups, vitamins, cook, make a budget, drop toxic relationships, write, organize photos, hike, volunteer, etc. Unfortunately, you have to read a lot of absolute nonsense repeated over and over before you get to anything useful (that's really only common sense, anyway). Save yourself the time, and skip it.

Comment:
message 66: by SusanMar 20, 2020 03:33PM
Susan (chlokara) | I love that: Pointless, but easy to read. Ha, ha

16) Blue Is the Warmest Color; Julie Maroh, Ivanka Hahnenberger (Translator); Mar 21; ?*
Reread: 3/21/20
I read this almost once a year, now. Generally when I'm depressed. Even this isn't making me feel less-worse right now. I really should just buy the d*mn thing, but I'm afraid to have it in the house. *? (Unstarred, b/c it isn't fair to the book.)

17) Loveboat, Taipei; Abigail Hing Wen; Mar 22; 3.8* (Audiobook)
The author spoke pretty thoroughly about parental control and influence over one's life (teen or otherwise, honestly), which I completely empathize with. I enjoyed listening to the audiobook narrator pronounce the Mandarin dialogue. The physical scenes were analogy-descriptive, without being graphic, so nice balance. (view spoiler)[ I thought there were some strange relationship triangles, and I was rather disappointed with the Ever/ Xavier hook-up. (hide spoiler)] This book was a bit long, but the character/ plot had some transitional phases, so non-issue.

18) Kind of Coping: An Illustrated Look at Life with Anxiety; Maureen "Marzi" Wilson; Mar 23; 2.8/3*
There were a few good ones, but mostly this book wasn't written for me. (This was more about anxiety than depression, but it says so right on the cover, so whose fault is that?) It definitely didn't feel as universal as her other work.

19) How to Be Vegan: Tips, Tricks, and Strategies for Cruelty-Free Eating, Living, Dating, Travel, Decorating, and More; Elizabeth Castoria; Mar 24; 3.3*
This covered a lot of the basics in an easy-to-read style. I really liked the formatting: infographics, dos & don'ts, celebrity examples (fun bonus), etc. I didn't like any of the recipes, but did appreciate the "Don't Be a Jerk" chapter. The "Travel" chapter seemed unnecessary to me. The most useful was "Vegan at Home." It's easy to understand the food aspects of being vegan, but it can be harder to maintain awareness of the animal products in everything that we use. However, it was strongly emphasized that it's impossible to be 100% vegan, so we shouldn't try -- just do our best, and draw the line where it's comfortable. (I wish more pro-vegan books took this stance.) Also, the Resources provided (whether in the back or throughout the book) were excellent.

20) Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition; T. Colin Campbell & Howard Jacobson; Mar 25; 2.4* (Audiobook)
Hell hath no fury like a scientist scorned. FYI: This book is not The China Study. If you a) haven't read The China Study before picking this up, or b) are hoping for something very similar to The China Study, you will be disappointed. Fair warning. (Seriously, you may want to reconsider even touching this book if you don't meet that criteria. This entire book is one man's venom-fueled criticism of nutrition science, and the politics surrounding it. He covers reductionist vs. wholistic science, a whole being greater than the sum of its parts (in terms of whole food items vs. their vitamin counterparts), that the great, unknowable nature of food should just be allowed to work its magic, etc. He repeatedly reinforces the need to follow the money, both in terms of science (funding -- by whom and what for) and politics (of food/ nutrition), something I don't think most people are aware of, but I'm glad he highlighted. However, I think he stepped outside his range of knowledge at times, particularly when talking about the media. [As a prior journalist, I have watched fellow writers submit their work to editors -- work which gave a positive, wide range view of a topic-- then throw a sh*t-fit when they saw what their editor did to it (without their approval) in order to fit some previously unknown agenda, and publish it under the original writer's name (which, I would argue, is the worst part). To throw specific media entities under the bus, without having any clue of what's really going on, isn't a wise decision -- because it isn't an informed decision.] This book won't make Campbell any friends in the science community, nor any new readers with the civilian community. The man does great scientific work, and I feel he's a credit to the human race. [He asks legitimate questions and seeks their answers, even if those answers aren't what people want to hear. He doesn't give in to the pressure caused by the uncomfortable implications of those answers -- whether that pressure is money (funding), respect (other peers in the scientific community), or otherwise.] He feels this information should be shared, and research continued, regardless of the personal cost. I respect that. However, this book comes off sounding like a petulant child who didn't get his way. Personally, I read this as an audiobook, and I would encourage others to do the same. After you've read The China Study. This is not the book to convert followers to a low-fat, whole-foods, plant-based diet.

21) Jack of Hearts (and Other Parts); Lev A.C. Rosen; Mar 26; 2.3* (Audiobook)
Say what you want about this being a "sex positive" book, but there are a lot of illegal/ non-consensual sexual relationships that various characters are involved in (simply because they're too young to consent) and everyone seems to completely ignore that little detail.

Strictly on the basis of health concerns regarding sexual promiscuity and the

Alcohol. (Inc. blackout drinking). Marijuana. Cigarettes. Vaping. Bdsm. Underage sexting.(pics) Minors having sex with adults. An incredible amount of promiscuity. All from the under-18 crowd.
I like the sex advice. (Which inc asexual & bdsm, so yay). I dislike the alcohol advice (bread works due to carbs/sugar -- friend drunk, give 'me a snickers. You're welcome.). The mystery was predictable, but acceptable. Due to the overt acceptance of incredibly risky/ illegal behaviors, this book just isn't for me. I see why it gets banned. Not for the gay relationships. Not for the sex advice. Not even the promiscuity (although, yeah... condoms aren't fullproof in the war against stds and I really don't think it's going to end well for our character). But for the rest. If this is teen sex positive, I have a lot of mixed feelings about the implication that I need to support risky and illegal behavior. It's great that it's all "yay, consent," but nothing about age of consent. With adults. (There was mention of this from both the primary and some of the girls with college guys.) And real fur? That's just disappointing. I feel like this book is just trying to get flagged, and claim it's b/c it's "sex-positive" with a gay focus. When it's really the author's blatant prerogative to normalize illegal behavior (in its man forms, but the worst to me is significantly underage kids having sex with full adults). In a book that just happens to also have useful information/ messages for teens.

3/30-31, 3*
This wasn't bad, it just wasn't for me. I have no idea what it must be like to be batsh*t crazy attached to someone, which is a lot of what this book is. Trying to help a person not make a bad decision shortly after breakup, and move on. Though mostly the first. I really appreciated the humor, which is why I finished it instead of DNf, once I realized this had no application in my life, I guess BLC I just don't attach to people like that. If they're out, they're out. And I deeply regret the only time I didn't follow my own advice. Audio

3/30 2.7*

One the one hand, this was inventive and beautiful with interesting characters and a good use of color. On the other hand, I have no idea what I just read. // this was the type of bizarre that borders incomprehensible.

4* 4/1
Yay independence. Eh about moving on and finding someone new. I like the part about mourning the relat/ person you thought hey were. Failures (although few things annoy me more than someone saying the biggest regrets are the chances we don’t take — we should all be so lucky). Good things are in the future (but are they, though? Really. Why not just admit that the best is behind us, and we to do whatever with what’s left). Stuff about meeting someone new, after chapter about it not mattering, seemed strange. But whatever. Not for me. It was fine. The good was really good, even though there was no shortage of meh. Still an overall interesting read.
Audio

4/5 3.4.
It started out strong, but veered off the path shortly thereafter. Some of it was good general advice, but a large chunk (inc & especially the exercises) just weren't for me. Audio

4/7 3.8
I liked the alternative povs. There were a lot of good points and scenarios. I wish it had at least not just discussed how happy doing opp-g, but also the anxiety of doing same-g stuff. I really liked the round-about direction this story too. Ab inc interviews with author, & that was worth sticking around for.
Audio

4/13 good karma divorce
Don't be vindictive. Divorce hurts children. Throughout the book, there's this assumption that people are inherently prone to lashing out at each other for stupid reasons, which I almost find insulting. (Book: *insert atrocious act* we've all done it. Me: have we, though? Really?) I'm sure this book will help someone, but This book wasn't for me. Stay civil and don't go to trial.
.
The irony now being I really ... I read this book too soon. 2.2*?
Audio

5/3 non-binary, gender-queer memoir. Other than disagreeing with his back injury analogy & definitely having feelings about not acknowledging that going to a southern "ivy" has given him opportunities not afforded to those... I'm just going to stop. I used to live in Raleigh. Trans or not, this guy has spent his life swimming in privileged opportunities. But hey, I like that he is gender non conforming. (Vs. trans binary) I like that he lives it, advocated for it, and uses his platform for good. This was a looong audio listen, but I eventually got through it. Glad he wrote this. Because people should know that non binary is ok. Esp. guys. (Or they, when appropriate.)
3?
Audio

5/ 7 (diff cover) rubyfruit Jungle meets boy erased, with a John green flavor to it. I think the romantic bouncing was handled well, because it’s hard to write about how life changes, people change, and we with them. It doesn’t just focus on one romantic encounter, but one builds on another. The end felt thrown together. Not bad, just thrown together. **id say it was anticlimactic, but there was never a climax. Just... stuff happening. ** didn’t love or hate it. 2.4/6

5/ 11
Full cast was nice. Kinda strange. Throwbacky but not really authentic. Almost DNfd but was so short I stayed the course. Petty he drama. For better or worse. 2.3

Both audio

5/18 3.4*
Interesting premise. Good narrator. I liked it until I didn't. It was surprisingly good, until it wasn't. So close to being a satisfying read. This was almost really good... almost. Audio

5/16 cute. Clearly written by a dog person, but cats got a few good comments as well. (Gift from parents) 3.7*

DNf
5/11. I tried. Listed for an hour-2. Just nothing happening. No significant plot or drama or interesting character. Just... not a good investment in time. In the end, the radio was less boring, more entertaining, and a welcome relief.

5/18 audio 4.6*
Really enjoyed this. So much of this is real. The chaos. The fear that your education isn't good enough. The absolute randomness. The burnout, & grr w/ partners (not good enough, no enthusiasm, personality clash, etc). It was fun listening through the range, newby to retired. It made me miss medicine. *sigh* I also needed a laugh. The kind only dry morbid humor will satisfy.

5/29 4.2*
A teen book with a good Kirkuk review? Sure, why not.
I made some predictions early in the book, & they were all wrong. Thankfully. Spoiler? Dealt with topics like adoption, & miscarriage. // The romance was weird, but thankfully acknowledged as such. Overall,not bad. For a teen book.

6/12
4.4*/6
Really liked this book. It’s told in euro, so not everything applies to an American reader. However, I loved the two tones to the book his/ hers, w/ hers being more serious & his being rather funny... which really helps when reading such serious content.
Also, knowing where the nhs draws the line I found helpful... in personally knowing how screwed I really was/ am. (Answer: very. I wouldn’t qualify for nhs). The questions in the back were nice, but definite see them as more of a guideline. Some are useful to ask, others to just think about & can lead you to your own questions, & some just weren’t realistic or didn’t apply to me... but might be useful to others.
This book isn’t perfect, but it was good to read before my consultation. At least I understood what they were talking about. (The Amh level measures are weird vs American, I think. Or maybe just where they draw the line? Not sure. And I definitely disagree about not knowing your number... you should definitely know your numbers, how screwed you really are, and have realistic expectations.)
Was great reading about their experience. Learned a lot. Her numbers are better than mine, but *shrugs* I mean, you only need one. Right?

6/20
I enjoyed the premise. The execution left something to be desired. I had to listen to "they did it on the floor" not once , but twice! Yeah, I'm no romance writer, and I don't expect graphic sex, but... maybe something else. I'm not really sure what I was expecting. But as a whole, it wasn't bad. Issues, sure, but it got the point across. 2.8 / 3.2

6/22
Covers all the basics without getting overly emotional. What is it.risk statistics, coping w/ suicidal thoughts , a& a / basic info therapy, warning signs. Includes glossary, index, & additional resources. “Listening to hateful, Angry music” was listed as a “warning sign” that “should be taken seriously by both yourself and by peers.” I’m gonna have to call bs on that one, but otherwise, this book seemed ok. Not very in depth, but a good introduction to the topic. (Maybe more mid than high school, but either ir)3*

6/26 3.4*
Mixing science with anecdotes gives the author an opportunity to provide advice that doesn't correlate with evidence-based practice. I think that was my major complaint. There's a fair amount of bad advice in here, and I'm grateful this isn't my first/ only resource. Having said that, this book is quite general and brings up a wide variety of topics, and related suggested questions. That was quite useful. Also, reproductive immunology -- who knew? It's a good book for exposure purposes, but take many of the author's suggestions with a grain of salt.
The narrators inflection while reading really bothered me, but I was grateful to have it on audiobook.

6/30
I like that this was very science-oriented. Good descriptions on treatments, what they are, whether or not they’re recommended & why. Some of this sounds like a sales pitch, but there’s enough useful info in here. It’s totally worth it. Not all the descriptions aligned with me, but I think there’s something in here for everyone (who lives with this disease), 4.3

7/2 3.3*
But is it true?
Interesting range of different stories. Not so much inspiring, but fair thinking points. Perhaps not what I was looking for, but not a complete waste of time.

7;6 4.4*
I wish I’d read this years ago, not that it would’ve changed anything. I knew what it was; I just didn’t care. Resources in back. Covers a lot of bases, & a lot of different types of abuse. No victim shaming, but almost to the end of ... being excessive. Covers family/ friend interactions as well. I don’t know about starting over, as the title says, but it’s a decent resource, even if in hindsight.

7/10 4.2*
I think this book was just a welcome change from what I've been reading. It was fun and refreshing, and reminded me of better days with dreams of the ocean. And lighthouses. And being in love with dangerous things. But I digress. There's something to be said about a book that advocates conservation of something that has the capacity to kill you. There's a message there I hope others pick up on. The love story was nice, in that it didn't rely on sexual tension -- just two people caring for eachother. I think kissing and handholding was the max, so this is a decent romance book to give someone who doesn't want to read graphic sexual anything (which seems to be a trend with many teen books).
Narrator was good -- seems to give some characters irish accents. Pacing was good in the very beginning, and then slows to a crawl. Also, rather predictable, but I still enjoyed it.
- a girl who loves something dangerous & desperately wants others to do the same.

.. 7/19
This is not-so-affectionately know in my circle as the “whore on a hike” book. I always thought that title was rude & undeserving. And then I read the book, & at least I understand why. Definitely not a sympathetic character... but maybe that’s the point. Her journey is her own, & she isn’t leaving out any of the off-color details & thoughts to make her look good. Stupid decision after stupid decision, we’re right there with her. A surprising amount of sexual / questionable morality whatever, but she just owns it and moves on. You’re not going to confuse her with a traditional good person, but maybe that’s the point. I have to admit, anyone that can shit in the woods has my admiration?. I’ve done it twice, three times if I include an outhouse, and it never gets less-weird for me. So there’s that.
.
Also, when you’re forced to live out of a pack, it’s hard to tell what’s essential — everything seems essential. The struggle is real.
Did I miss something? Why didn’t she hike through Washington? 3* too damn long, not very funny or inspiring, but felt genuine (even if very wtf)

7/25?
I could’ve sworn I already wrote about this one. O well.
I really enjoyed this. This book repeatedly made me lol. I also like that it gives applicable history & information about the trail. Narrator does a great job as well. I’ve been picking and putting down this book for years. Glad I finally got to read it. Worth the wait. The humor was surprisingly refreshing. 4.7*

7/31 2*/ 1.7?
Didn’t love. The worst advice was that you should toss stuff that your kids have while they’re out. I feel like that could easily scar a kid for life. Talked about celebrity closet/ kitchen/ whatever after another. I get their Schlick is color coding Roy g biv style. I just... got nothing out of this.

8/2 4*
A book about ace struggles and ace dating. What a novel concept. No pun intended. Ok. Maybe. I really liked the beginning— it got to the heart of the struggle right off the bat. The rest was just a regular romance, with an ace twist. Also, they worked a a library, and I kinda loved that. Couldn’t get behind the whole my parents have money so they’re paying my school as long as I do what they say bit. Good for her. Yay privilege, or economic security. I know there’s that whole new adult struggle but, but I just had no sympathy for her in that regard. None. Otherwise, not bad. Much appreciated in the LGBT+ realm.

Forgotten book 2.8*
The first half of this book is DNF-level slog. Seriously. The second half is decidedly better. It’s a story that does, eventually, get interesting. And I appreciate that. But... I just never really... enjoyed it? Considered it original? Entertaining? I dunno. The first half just lost me so much. I’m glad it got better, after the half mark, but that really only brought it up to roundable 3 for me. Spoiler: like monkey’s paw, but in book form. // day i went to cc, 8/6?

This was surprisingly not bad. It’s about recognizing excuses over reasons of why your space isn’t clean, (can’t vs won’t). And how to make in manageable. 20:10 minute intervals. Basic cleaning ideas and supplies. Mini-challenges. Also, how to work with others regarding chores & getting a space clean. The workbook was an abbreviated version, sort of. I quite liked these books. 3.8-4* 8/10

I thought this would be another anti clutter book, but it’s an anti-consumerism book about going minimalist. Sounds unpleasant, but it good so far. Lots in here about how Jesus felt about minimalism. I wasn’t expecting the religious undertones, but it’s done better than most books that mix religion with their cause, especially cleaning. Start small (throw out duplicates), live without stuff 29 days, etc. value of generosity. Mainly, I appreciated his comments about not focusing on the mos difficult obstacle esp, getting started, by to just start. Give yourself room to make progress. Let the solutions present themselves. Not Christian, but really didn’t mind it so much in this book. Although his pitch for planet fitness? I thought that was funny. 4* aug 11? Mon?

3* Aug 13. It’s ok, different comics for different emotions. I can tell the author and I feel quite different about many things, inc helping other people, carrying burdens, so many things. I mean, some are ok, but some really missed the mark for me.

1.3* 8/14
Nearly DNf’d. If it wasn’t a manga, I would’ve... guess I refuse to dnf a manga. Picked this up so many times, & just hated reading it. So, it’s an odd couple story, with girls in school. One’s really enthusiastic, & the other’s apathetic. Sounds like a riot. *rolls eyes* maaaybe towards the end it starts to border on a semi-romantic friendship, but not really. I just feel like I’m reading a story involving a codependent relationship, & I’m really not having it. Do not plan to continue the series.

1.1* 8/14
.1 for being informative in the ways of ramen, the only redeeming factor of this book
Like your manga with massive sexual undertones that just happen to be about ramen? Then this book is for you. Watch girls slurp long, thick noodles down their throat, as it fills them with warmth and satisfaction. If you liked that sentence, there's plenty of pictures that will make you equally uncomfortable. This is akin to looking at porn, but ramen. The post-script specifically states that this book is written for men. (You don't say?) I mean, it was informative -- and I really don't know what's with these manga always having a completely apathetic character? -- but really frustrating. One of the characters keeps chasing after the lead, and clearly isn't taking no for an answer. I'm also not particularly comfortable with that, or its message to teens/ readers, but whatever. *shrugs* If you're ready for some girl-on-girl ramen action, then this is for you. Now order that double-pork ramen and take it all! (Dont forget to swallow.) *rolls eyes*
(I might round this up later just for being informative and ridiculous. HAven't decided yet.)

8/15 3.3*
This was interesting. I like that it had a beginning ultimatum and end projectdinner .id been wanting to read this for awhile. I don’t think I would’ve been as tolerant as his gf/ although his gf could be a little rough at times. I don’t think he was full blown hoarder, just cluttered. Per his description. s and people’s reaction to his photos He documents his thoughts and journey well enough, but I rn feel like it added anything to the discussion . Glad he shared his journey, even if I didn’t find any value or inspiration , other than it can be done, from him. .

8/16 3.4*
So, the philosophy is good: m-r designate specific tasks to clean. If you don’t get to it, then no worries. On fri, do everything left that you didn’t get to m-r (or that just needs done). Frees up sat & sun. Lots of talk about green cleaners (w/recipes) & essential oils. Keeping kids safe. However, I never fully trust a book that tells me to put slightly damp sheets on my bed (to avoid wrinkles). No. Just no. I would rather battle wrinkles than breath mold while I sleep. No. Just no. (Exacerbated by her description of having a moisture proof liner over mattress, then bed topper, then damp sheets, then everything else. What could possibly go wrong?)
Eh. Maaaybe 3.5. Bonus for unique housekeeping to to free up the weekends. That’s gotta be worth something. I guess.

8/16 4.3*
4 parts: exercise, diet, declutter, mindful meditation. This was interesting the way this was put together. It felt like a treatment of the whole person, & not just the symptoms (clutter or weight). Lots on correlation of the two. Multiple case study sample people who beta-tested the program. No calorie counting or anything crazy. Big emphasis on master bedroom being a private space for parents/ people. Thought that fascinating. Got a lot done listening to this book.

8/17 3*
I appreciate what he was trying to do here. Change his own habits, and pair up with his kid to alter the negative habits he’d gotten from him. I like that the book was narrated partially by father, & partially by son. All good things. They only did 39 days, but seemed to make progress. I didn’t like that they celebrated with food they’d been striving to not eat for health reasons — kinda negating the whole thing. He’s also very against frequent weigh-ins, (versus last book, whic advocated frequent weigh ins so the weight never jumps up too much without ones notice). I get it. Don’t want to discourage progress. Keep working. Numbers will change. I get all that. Basic advice was to just work hard, quit drinking soda, move more, and sit back for all the good things to happen. Didn’t really learn much (anything) from this novel, but again, I like that there wS a parent-child pairing towards a mutual goal. The kid seemed like he was working this as a character building exercise, which was a plus. When it didn’t feel like he was doing everything as a desperate bid for his fathers approval. B.C. 5 kids. But whatever. I like the way it was told and the general message, even if the execution was a little squirrelly.

8/18 4.4*
Maybe higher?
Steroid use & body/ muscle dysmorphia issues. Written by a guy for guys, for all intents and purposes. Lots of books are written about anorexia & such eating disorders. This one is different. It’s about seeking to get muscular. And the pressures that cause such things. I found the ending predictable, but it had to happen, I guess. I’m just glad this book exists. It’s a human experience that isn’t told very ofte, particularly to the teen crowd. But also, in general.

2.8
2.6

Aug 20
3.1
After hours series:
lesbian manga. romantic/ intimate without being overly sexual (in terms of illustrations, not content). the relationship felt one-sided for most of the series, until it didn't.
1) one-night stand turns to romance. one-sided power. newbie brought into the night scene
2) still one sided power romance. weird attempt at drama. getting ready for the big show
3) power struggle inally equalizes a bit. big show/rave goes down. some more weird drama. confrontation. satisfying conclusion to series, all things considered. I like the way the relationship was portrayed, power struggle aside. it just was. nothing voyeusterically sexual for illust. it just was. nice medium between something resembling a plot and intimacy. i was getting bored with the series, but decided to continue on. glad I did since there's only 3 in the series. also, the third kinda finished it off well-enough. 3*


Love the concept! So many super powers to chose from, in so many combinations. I like that the lead is a child in foster care, with some unique family issues. This was colorful, fun, & made me smile. Im lookig forward to others in the series.4.4/6?
writing, illustrations, concept = good!

8/21 1.3*
Informative, perhaps. It that 'let's find your label' kinda way. About as entertaining as listening to someone read the dictionary. This book has an audience. I'm not it. Do not recommend to give to people not already at least conversational with lgbt. This is not an introductory book. This is a minutiae book. And since I'm not really into labels, this... was something that I recognize would both horrify and overwhelm my family. If you're really interested in learning all the different words you can use for your gender/ sexuality/ etc., then this is the book for you. Otherwiise, perhaps not so much.


3.7* 8/22
Surprisingly not bad. I wasn't sure what to expect, but thought I'd give it a try. This goes at inequality from the perspective of income, versus race. I like that it concentrates mostly on the advantages afforded to children (poverty/ low income vs upper middle class), issues with meritocracy, tax laws, college admissions. Talking points about the "glass floor" instead of the "glass ceiling". How, once people have achieved upper-middle status, they try to ensure their children stay in that range, and the laws/ resources that allow them to perpetuate is. Similar to inherited class, but different. Proposals that have been attempted, and quickly shot down. Change will only come with such people voting against their own best interest, and that probably isn't going to happen. But there were a fair amount of talking points in this book. Overall, worth the listen, even if just for the perspective .

I got what’s left of my life that he didn’t want; he got what’s left of my stuff that I didn’t want.

8/24 4.7*
This was the most fun I’ve had with a teen book since, probably ever. A fun read on teens, whitchcraft & magical powers, responsibility, written with a quirky sense of humor. Predictable, sure, but just B.C. you know where you’re going doesn’t mean it won’t/ can’t be a fun ride. Just... so much fun. Reader of hp and watchers of Buffy & the craft will probably enjoy this book as well. I wish all teen books had this kind of flavor: sweet & spicy with a little kick and the smoothness of comfort food. For the brain.

8/26 2.4?
So, high protein yay. (Gluten/ soy free) Also, high fat, salt, calories, sugar (everything takes maple syrup -- at least it isn't agave nectar)?, oil. So much oil. I was looking for for low-fat, high protein vegan. I think this is more high calorie/ fat/ salt keto vegan. So, not my thing. But, the recipes are at least made with common ingreidients. Nothing horribly esoteric. Assuming you can find nut/ bean flour, and also nuts.
Things I did like:
burger= chickpeas, corn, parsley, pickles, mustard, (o) sunflower seeds
cheese sauce: carrot, garlic, almnd mlk, white miso, mutr. yeast, cashews, paprika, turmeric, black pepper
veegballs: black beans, mushrooms, walnut
Garbanzo bean flour?
Chickpea, artichoke (like tuna fish?) salad
Quinoa bean chili
Bean+rice= Crust
Bean, cauliflower tacos
Quinoa falafel
Rice+pineapple+veggies
Cheese2: potato, carrot, plant milk, nutr yeast, etc.

8/26, 4.7?
How did I miss this? Silent Hill meets high school extracurricular. Lots of topics. Gender. Sexuality. Need to overachieve. Trauma. With a little bit of romance (requited, unrequited, othrwise/ questioning). I feel like this book is taking the gender-thing really seriously. Just embracing a gender-neutral stance seems like it could go really far to help at least one character. Also poly. (I was like, "tell me this was written in the 90s. Nope 05/06. So, I get it. Amazing how far things've come in such a short time. Oh, the Manga-gore. Nice. Wasn't expecting it. Happy surprise.

8/30? 3* nothing particularly original, but she made some good points. Less for the sake of less is as pointless as more for the sake of more. It’s like minimalist middle ground. Now, this book is definitely written for upper-ish middle class with a disposable income. Maybe a temp fix is feasible, & maybe it isn’t. Maybe you’re better off to save money & wait for the permanent fix. Although the “tax write off for a controlled burn” line made me legit lol. That was great. It’s a short book, & there are some good lines in here. Most of the books and points she makes are just recaps for me/ things I’d already read, but some things about designing I liked. (Pin for dream & look for patterns instead of pinning for practicality. And also, it’s ok to like some things — you don’t have to like everything. Also, I like the emphasis on rugs. I am also very pro large rug. I don’t think her painting advice is great, but I’m biased. Quieting a room by taking everything out of it. Yes. That doesn’t seem like it’s ever bad advice. So, overall ok. Written by someone that clearly has more money than me, but whatever. A variety of perspectives has value, in both directions.

9/6 sun
9/11
Interesting to read these during pandemic about pandemic bee flu. Both had weak female characters, which bothered me. Second had major pacing issues. First was at least amusing.
Understanding how the bee flu went down is half the ridiculous fun of listening to this book. Characters weren’t awesome, but the world/ situation was interesting & unique. I honestly wish this had been a stand alone.

Book 2. Different character POV, but original characters still in book. You have to get about halfway for anything interesting to happen . Pacing. Also, nothing really interesting happens, not really. Not enough to rationalize a second book.

Gender was a big deal in this book... and I think it was taken a bit too far. Beyond my suspension of disbelief. For one, you don’t need to be a girl to be raped. Of the guys I know, about 1 in 3 heterosexual guys has preference for a unisex hole. Aliso, honey being this insane commodity? It may be rare, but it serves no damn purpose. Food! Not good enough. That wasn’t explained well.
1= 3.4. Still prob same rating, but I keep talking about this book to people. The premise is just so... ridiculously fun to explain. Lol. 9/17
2=2. 3

9/13

Fun title, but no thorough concept. Just different cleaning/ decluttering ideas without any overarching ? Not all ideas were great, but most seemed reasonable. Nothing new. 2.2

I know I’ve read this book before, just don’t know when. Anyway. Felt more like psychobabble decluttering. The last 15-20 min reviewed all the points without having to gear detailed anecdotes of many, many people he’s worked with. Some are more interesting than others, but it’s easy to get lost in the forest for the trees. Just forget wtf & it goes on forever. Eh mostly ok. I guess. Didn’t love it.
2.4

9/14
“Fantastically frugal” ideas. (Free fun). Mainly, the idea is to separate finances into essential, nice-to-have, (& misc). The idea is to go full financial fast — only essentials. Then add on nice to haves. Find a good medium. 3.4? (After)

9/16
I didn’t love this book. The beginning was good. The end was... ok. Not bad. The middle... was a slog. The kind that perhaps a good editor could’ve helped with. I liked the talking cat, & the variety of ways one could become a witch. Everything else... felt like wasted hours of my life. 2.3*