Lit Fest soars to a start
It was a wonderful welcome party - traditional and ethnic.
Jaipur's glitterati and the Jaipur LiteratureFestival delegates, writers and authors celebrated the start of this edition of JLF with a pre-party - at the kite festival hosted by Kolkata-based culturist Sundeep Bhutoria. There was kite flying, kites on display, and a lovely village life setting at the venue. The guests were treated to festival delicacies like til ke laddoo, fini, mirch bada and kachori.
Babu Khan, the 76-year-old kite flying expert, along with other experts from Udaipur, kalabaaz from Sikar, kathputhli artistes from Jaipur, lac bangle makers, all added to the ambience, which the foreign delegates just loved. "We wanted the JLF delegates and everyone who's come for that to get a feel of Rajasthani village life in a traditional way, along with the charms of kite flying," said Sundeep. Also at the event were Sanjoy Roy and Namita Gokhale.
It was a wonderful welcome party - traditional and ethnic.
Jaipur's glitterati and the Jaipur LiteratureFestival delegates, writers and authors celebrated the start of this edition of JLF with a pre-party - at the kite festival hosted by Kolkata-based culturist Sundeep Bhutoria. There was kite flying, kites on display, and a lovely village life setting at the venue. The guests were treated to festival delicacies like til ke laddoo, fini, mirch bada and kachori.
Babu Khan, the 76-year-old kite flying expert, along with other experts from Udaipur, kalabaaz from Sikar, kathputhli artistes from Jaipur, lac bangle makers, all added to the ambience, which the foreign delegates just loved. "We wanted the JLF delegates and everyone who's come for that to get a feel of Rajasthani village life in a traditional way, along with the charms of kite flying," said Sundeep. Also at the event were Sanjoy Roy and Namita Gokhale.
‘Half a Rupee’: Seeing life through Gulzar’s poetic gaze
Book Review: Half a Rupee Stories
Author: Gulzar
Translated from the Hindi ('Athanniya') by Sunjoy Shekhar
Publisher: Penguin Books India
Pages: 218
The reputation of a 'short story' in literature is quite questionable. Often defined as 'the poor cousin' of the more 'opulent' novel, a short story is like a struggling artist striving for a moment of glory.
As an introduction note to his book of short stories- 'Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman', the much celebrated Japanese author Haruki Murakami wrote, "If writing novels is like planting a forest, then writing short stories is more like planting a garden. The two processes complement each other, creating a complete landscape that I treasure." In India, it was during a session titled 'Kahani Kisko Kehte Hain? Script, Story, Screenplay' at the Jaipur Literature Festival in 2012 that poet and lyricist Gulzar had presented a valid argument against marginalisation of short stories in literature and explained how a river cannot boast of its affluence unless there is a confluence of tributaries that flow into it. Thanks to them and many such writers that short stories are (re)gaining prominence among the present generation of readers. And Gulzar's latest collection of short stories, 'Half a Rupee Stories' offers us yet another treasure trove of tales waiting to be opened and devoured.
Usual stories, unusual writing
When it's Gulzar, even the ordinary assumes a larger-than-life yet real status of its own and something which is a 'unique' incident or an experience is narrated with a kind of unusual simplicity that it appears like an everyday occurrence. This is best explained if we pick two stories out of the twenty five in the book. The story 'Hilsa' for instance begins with a happy scene where we get a glimpse of a Bengali couple engaged in a discussion on the beautiful eyes of the Hilsa fish. As the wife dresses it for the afternoon meal, her husband shares a trivia on why one "shouldn't eat fish in the months that do not have the letter R in them," the reason being those are the months in which the fish breed. Everything seems fine until the innocent reader reaches the climax and is caught off-guard. The 'mesmerising' eyes of the pregnant Hilsa that we'd started marvelling at, in fact, serves a metaphor to describe the eyes of a dead pregnant woman, gang-raped in the city riots. Her photograph on the front page of the newspaper that the husband reads (in the concluding scene) rudely reminds us of the fish in the pan as the story concludes, "Her eyes looked like those of the Hilsa in the pan". The next story is about a suicide bomber who strangely wishes to get photographed on her last day of existence. With the mission (to blow up the Prime Minister) in mind, she wakes up to her last morning and plans the day. What is most interesting about the story is its title- 'Swayamvar' (a practice in ancient India of selecting a husband from a list of suitors). How on earth is marriage even relevant to a woman who is to die in hours, we wonder? Once you finish reading the story, all questions are put to rest.
Javed Akhtar, Kashmir and the 'aam-aadmi'
Half a Rupee Stories allows us to take a sneak peek into some personal chapters of people that have left an impact on Gulzar to an extent that he decides to chronicle them for posterity. Most of us are aware of lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar's wit, quick repartee and playfulness but only a privileged few have lifted his writer's cloak to discover the person hidden behind. Gulzar does that for us. Javed Akhtar's aka 'Jaadu' (as the poet addresses him in the story) sweet-n-sour relationship with his father, early days as a writer in the Hindi film industry and little dreams about receiving the Filmfare and his acceptance speech rehearsals in closed rooms of production houses make for a fascinating read. The story, however, is an emotional one. Javed Akhtar's special friendship with Urdu poet and Hindi lyricist Sahir Ludhianvi and its tragic end has been written with utmost sensitivity and honesty. Kashmir and Indo-Pak relations too feature as repeated themes in Gulzar's stories which are again fiction but experienced reality at the same time. It is hard for the reader to blame Gulzar for patronizing the poor in his stories because the empathy with which he writes about their hardship and challenges forces us to question our own behaviour toward them. 'Half a Rupee', also a story in its own in the volume is Gulzar's personal favourite. "This story is very close to my heart. The struggle to transform an 'athanniya' (half a rupee) to a full rupee is the central theme and 'Half a Rupee' becomes a metaphor of the poor's plight," explains the poet.
Gulzar's simplicity, translator's honesty
Reading the book you'll find that the translator has retained some of the Hindi words as is. Terms like angeethi, mehetar, ghuggni, gulkand, gamchas, mannat and athanni among others do not always come with a mandatory asterisk or footnotes that you can refer to understand the English equivalent. It could be that the translator did not want to take away the flavour of the original; after all a 'ghuggni' is not the same as a chickpea dish nor is 'gamcha' exactly a towel. The images they conjure would not occur if they were to be rephrased or re-interpreted and this is where Sunjoy Shekhar ensures not to disturb the fabric of the stories.
From the Foreword by Gulzar to the twenty fifth story, 'Half a Rupee' comes across as an exploration of human life in varied situations and settings. Whether it's on streets, in the hills, across the border, in the rain or a film studio; Gulzar does not miss a chance to say that it is life which is his ultimate muse.
Book Review: Half a Rupee Stories
Author: Gulzar
Translated from the Hindi ('Athanniya') by Sunjoy Shekhar
Publisher: Penguin Books India
Pages: 218
The reputation of a 'short story' in literature is quite questionable. Often defined as 'the poor cousin' of the more 'opulent' novel, a short story is like a struggling artist striving for a moment of glory.
As an introduction note to his book of short stories- 'Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman', the much celebrated Japanese author Haruki Murakami wrote, "If writing novels is like planting a forest, then writing short stories is more like planting a garden. The two processes complement each other, creating a complete landscape that I treasure." In India, it was during a session titled 'Kahani Kisko Kehte Hain? Script, Story, Screenplay' at the Jaipur Literature Festival in 2012 that poet and lyricist Gulzar had presented a valid argument against marginalisation of short stories in literature and explained how a river cannot boast of its affluence unless there is a confluence of tributaries that flow into it. Thanks to them and many such writers that short stories are (re)gaining prominence among the present generation of readers. And Gulzar's latest collection of short stories, 'Half a Rupee Stories' offers us yet another treasure trove of tales waiting to be opened and devoured.
Usual stories, unusual writing
When it's Gulzar, even the ordinary assumes a larger-than-life yet real status of its own and something which is a 'unique' incident or an experience is narrated with a kind of unusual simplicity that it appears like an everyday occurrence. This is best explained if we pick two stories out of the twenty five in the book. The story 'Hilsa' for instance begins with a happy scene where we get a glimpse of a Bengali couple engaged in a discussion on the beautiful eyes of the Hilsa fish. As the wife dresses it for the afternoon meal, her husband shares a trivia on why one "shouldn't eat fish in the months that do not have the letter R in them," the reason being those are the months in which the fish breed. Everything seems fine until the innocent reader reaches the climax and is caught off-guard. The 'mesmerising' eyes of the pregnant Hilsa that we'd started marvelling at, in fact, serves a metaphor to describe the eyes of a dead pregnant woman, gang-raped in the city riots. Her photograph on the front page of the newspaper that the husband reads (in the concluding scene) rudely reminds us of the fish in the pan as the story concludes, "Her eyes looked like those of the Hilsa in the pan". The next story is about a suicide bomber who strangely wishes to get photographed on her last day of existence. With the mission (to blow up the Prime Minister) in mind, she wakes up to her last morning and plans the day. What is most interesting about the story is its title- 'Swayamvar' (a practice in ancient India of selecting a husband from a list of suitors). How on earth is marriage even relevant to a woman who is to die in hours, we wonder? Once you finish reading the story, all questions are put to rest.
Javed Akhtar, Kashmir and the 'aam-aadmi'
Half a Rupee Stories allows us to take a sneak peek into some personal chapters of people that have left an impact on Gulzar to an extent that he decides to chronicle them for posterity. Most of us are aware of lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar's wit, quick repartee and playfulness but only a privileged few have lifted his writer's cloak to discover the person hidden behind. Gulzar does that for us. Javed Akhtar's aka 'Jaadu' (as the poet addresses him in the story) sweet-n-sour relationship with his father, early days as a writer in the Hindi film industry and little dreams about receiving the Filmfare and his acceptance speech rehearsals in closed rooms of production houses make for a fascinating read. The story, however, is an emotional one. Javed Akhtar's special friendship with Urdu poet and Hindi lyricist Sahir Ludhianvi and its tragic end has been written with utmost sensitivity and honesty. Kashmir and Indo-Pak relations too feature as repeated themes in Gulzar's stories which are again fiction but experienced reality at the same time. It is hard for the reader to blame Gulzar for patronizing the poor in his stories because the empathy with which he writes about their hardship and challenges forces us to question our own behaviour toward them. 'Half a Rupee', also a story in its own in the volume is Gulzar's personal favourite. "This story is very close to my heart. The struggle to transform an 'athanniya' (half a rupee) to a full rupee is the central theme and 'Half a Rupee' becomes a metaphor of the poor's plight," explains the poet.
Gulzar's simplicity, translator's honesty
Reading the book you'll find that the translator has retained some of the Hindi words as is. Terms like angeethi, mehetar, ghuggni, gulkand, gamchas, mannat and athanni among others do not always come with a mandatory asterisk or footnotes that you can refer to understand the English equivalent. It could be that the translator did not want to take away the flavour of the original; after all a 'ghuggni' is not the same as a chickpea dish nor is 'gamcha' exactly a towel. The images they conjure would not occur if they were to be rephrased or re-interpreted and this is where Sunjoy Shekhar ensures not to disturb the fabric of the stories.
From the Foreword by Gulzar to the twenty fifth story, 'Half a Rupee' comes across as an exploration of human life in varied situations and settings. Whether it's on streets, in the hills, across the border, in the rain or a film studio; Gulzar does not miss a chance to say that it is life which is his ultimate muse.
I’ve Got Your Number: Sophie Kinsella’s best
Book review: I've Got Your Number
Author: Sophie Kinsella
Publisher: Bantam Press
Pages: 381
Like a typical Sophie Kinsella book, this one too piques your curiosity and sees you through in a matter of some hours. Her heroines, as always, are so lovingly predictable, and so blithely clumsy. They all have in common a lot of charisma, bagsful of wit, presence of mind, inevitable boyfriend issues, die-hard romanticism, misplaced goofiness, and some serious balls. Small wonder, we fall for their charms each time, in varied setups, knowing full well what's next in line.
Perhaps it is this sprightly nature of her women that tugs at our heartstrings, and makes us lap up her plots albeit with a pinch of salt. In this one, Poppy Wyatt, a physiotherapist at a downtown clinic inLondon, is extremely thrilled about her impending wedding to boyfriend, an academic with Greek god looks, Magnus Tavish. And just while she is treating her friends to an afternoon of champagne and cupcakes she realises her precious engagement ring, a gigantic antique emerald that belongs to Magnus' grandmom, is missing. To make matters worse, a fire alarm goes off and there is chaos everywhere. In a fit of panic, Poppy alerts the cleaners and other hotel staff, and makes frantic calls from her mobile phone just when someone nicks her phone too. Ridden with guilt over losing the priceless engagement ring, and now her phone, Poppy chances upon an abandoned cell phone in the hotel dustbin which she picks up and keeps as her own. From thence begins the tale of Poppy Wyatt's journey to her wedding day, the back and forth preparations for it, and a weird, telephonic relationship with the owner of the phone, businessman Sam Roxton.
You will be amazed to find out how the cell phone first lands in the dustbin, and how Poppy uses the same number and passes it on to her friends and hotel staff, for any information on her missing ring. Though a tad difficult to believe how two people, that too strangers, can share their inboxes, it is nevertheless hilarious and hopelessly romantic the way the drama pans out over phone calls and SMSs. Mostly SMSs, for what follows is a marathon of SMS exchange between Poppy and Sam. Embarrassed to see her in-laws without the wedding ring, Poppy covers her hand with bandage and sends a picture of it to Sam for approval. Not just that he even bails her out in a game of Scrabble. Soon, she begins to take liberties with him by answering mails on his behalf.
As the story delves deeper into office politics, you fervently hope that Poppy doesn't end up with Magnus, and that she and Sam confess their love for each other. But not quite. Poppy by composing and replying to emails at Sam's behest unwittingly gets him into serious trouble. However, courtesy Poppy's generous replies that Sam suddenly becomes popular among his mates, given his reputation for ignoring emails that sat in the inbox for months. Poppy forgets all about her wedding and gets down to helping Sam in his business, while her geeky, namby-pamby boyfriend enters and leaves the scene like a background cast. And everything we ever get to know of Magnus is, he is a celebrated academic and loves sex, but what he thinks about the wholemarriage thing is only known through her soliloquies and vague text exchanges with Sam.
In some places, the SMS chats run into pages, and though a tad juvenile they are never tiring. And you get this feeling of browsing through someone else's inbox, secretly hoping to stumble upon something more clandestine.
I've Got Your Number is an interesting take on modern day relationships and its dependence on technology. That you do not need a heroic tale of love and loss to bring about mush is quite evident here. And like this one, some love stories are only meant to perk you up.
Book review: I've Got Your Number
Author: Sophie Kinsella
Publisher: Bantam Press
Pages: 381
Like a typical Sophie Kinsella book, this one too piques your curiosity and sees you through in a matter of some hours. Her heroines, as always, are so lovingly predictable, and so blithely clumsy. They all have in common a lot of charisma, bagsful of wit, presence of mind, inevitable boyfriend issues, die-hard romanticism, misplaced goofiness, and some serious balls. Small wonder, we fall for their charms each time, in varied setups, knowing full well what's next in line.
Perhaps it is this sprightly nature of her women that tugs at our heartstrings, and makes us lap up her plots albeit with a pinch of salt. In this one, Poppy Wyatt, a physiotherapist at a downtown clinic inLondon, is extremely thrilled about her impending wedding to boyfriend, an academic with Greek god looks, Magnus Tavish. And just while she is treating her friends to an afternoon of champagne and cupcakes she realises her precious engagement ring, a gigantic antique emerald that belongs to Magnus' grandmom, is missing. To make matters worse, a fire alarm goes off and there is chaos everywhere. In a fit of panic, Poppy alerts the cleaners and other hotel staff, and makes frantic calls from her mobile phone just when someone nicks her phone too. Ridden with guilt over losing the priceless engagement ring, and now her phone, Poppy chances upon an abandoned cell phone in the hotel dustbin which she picks up and keeps as her own. From thence begins the tale of Poppy Wyatt's journey to her wedding day, the back and forth preparations for it, and a weird, telephonic relationship with the owner of the phone, businessman Sam Roxton.
You will be amazed to find out how the cell phone first lands in the dustbin, and how Poppy uses the same number and passes it on to her friends and hotel staff, for any information on her missing ring. Though a tad difficult to believe how two people, that too strangers, can share their inboxes, it is nevertheless hilarious and hopelessly romantic the way the drama pans out over phone calls and SMSs. Mostly SMSs, for what follows is a marathon of SMS exchange between Poppy and Sam. Embarrassed to see her in-laws without the wedding ring, Poppy covers her hand with bandage and sends a picture of it to Sam for approval. Not just that he even bails her out in a game of Scrabble. Soon, she begins to take liberties with him by answering mails on his behalf.
As the story delves deeper into office politics, you fervently hope that Poppy doesn't end up with Magnus, and that she and Sam confess their love for each other. But not quite. Poppy by composing and replying to emails at Sam's behest unwittingly gets him into serious trouble. However, courtesy Poppy's generous replies that Sam suddenly becomes popular among his mates, given his reputation for ignoring emails that sat in the inbox for months. Poppy forgets all about her wedding and gets down to helping Sam in his business, while her geeky, namby-pamby boyfriend enters and leaves the scene like a background cast. And everything we ever get to know of Magnus is, he is a celebrated academic and loves sex, but what he thinks about the wholemarriage thing is only known through her soliloquies and vague text exchanges with Sam.
In some places, the SMS chats run into pages, and though a tad juvenile they are never tiring. And you get this feeling of browsing through someone else's inbox, secretly hoping to stumble upon something more clandestine.
I've Got Your Number is an interesting take on modern day relationships and its dependence on technology. That you do not need a heroic tale of love and loss to bring about mush is quite evident here. And like this one, some love stories are only meant to perk you up.
Wesley the Owl
A young biologist who works at The California Institute of Technology (Caltech); a private research university in California; is given a newly hatched barn owl by her to boss to raise as her own. The little owlet has a permanently injured wing and would not survive re-introduction into the wild. Written as a memoir, Stacey O'Brien focuses on the formative years and milestones that she shares with 'Wesley'.
Owls are solitary creatures in the wild. They mate for life, their world centering around the relationships with their mate and young. Some of the most enjoyable sections of the book are when the reader is introduced by O'Brien to the expected life stages and characteristics of a barn owl in the wild. As Wesley matures and passes from one life stage to the next both author and reader marvel at Wesley's "normalcy" despite being raised by a human and kept to the interior of one bedroom, bathroom and living room in a suburban home on the outskirts of Los Angeles. Even more interesting is where Wesley differs in his habits from wild barn owls-like how he enjoys playing in the bath tub while wild owls normally avoid/fear water. Many of the tales O’Brien shares, center on the foibles of a relationship in which she must be both mother and later mate (at least in Wesley’s eyes). Wesley cannot be categorized as solely tame or wild and O’Brien often comments on the mystery of the bond that develops between her and Wesley during his nineteen years of life.
A young biologist who works at The California Institute of Technology (Caltech); a private research university in California; is given a newly hatched barn owl by her to boss to raise as her own. The little owlet has a permanently injured wing and would not survive re-introduction into the wild. Written as a memoir, Stacey O'Brien focuses on the formative years and milestones that she shares with 'Wesley'.
Owls are solitary creatures in the wild. They mate for life, their world centering around the relationships with their mate and young. Some of the most enjoyable sections of the book are when the reader is introduced by O'Brien to the expected life stages and characteristics of a barn owl in the wild. As Wesley matures and passes from one life stage to the next both author and reader marvel at Wesley's "normalcy" despite being raised by a human and kept to the interior of one bedroom, bathroom and living room in a suburban home on the outskirts of Los Angeles. Even more interesting is where Wesley differs in his habits from wild barn owls-like how he enjoys playing in the bath tub while wild owls normally avoid/fear water. Many of the tales O’Brien shares, center on the foibles of a relationship in which she must be both mother and later mate (at least in Wesley’s eyes). Wesley cannot be categorized as solely tame or wild and O’Brien often comments on the mystery of the bond that develops between her and Wesley during his nineteen years of life.
Good Bait
Good Bait is the title of the latest novel from that master of crime fiction, John Harvey. This new crime story delivers the same taut story-line and excellent characterisation which we have come to expect from the award-winning Harvey.
When the body of a young East European man is found floating in a pond on Hampstead Heath, the case falls to Detective Chief Inspector Karen Shields of the London Murder and Crime Squad. In addition to this latest unexplained death, Karen is also investigating three other murders, the death of a mother and child and the shooting of a youth thought to be involved in drugs. Despite her heavy work load, Karen's immediate superior wants results - and fast!
Meanwhile in Newlyn, Cornwall, Detective Inspector Trevor Cordon has been asked to find a missing daughter who had supposedly gone to visit her father in Hastings but had never turned up and was now thought to be hiding somewhere in London. Cordon makes some enquiries from Cornwall, but gets no results: he thinks no more about the case as the girl had disappeared before and had always reappeared unharmed. He turns his attention to other cases which have cropped up, but when a death occurs in London, Cordon feels compelled to travel to London and begin his search for the missing girl in earnest.
As both investigations proceed, more and more twists and turns are unravelled and it seems as if both cases are going nowhere and that the murders will remain unsolved.
It soon becomes clear that the murder of the young East European man was no isolated incident and as more gruesome murders take place, Karen realises she is dealing with ruthless gangsters involved in drug smuggling, prostitution and human trafficking. Cordon, too, becomes heavily involved in the case of the missing girl and gets much more than he bargained for.
Apart from Harvey's careful research and thorough knowledge of police procedures, his characters are rich
Good Bait is the title of the latest novel from that master of crime fiction, John Harvey. This new crime story delivers the same taut story-line and excellent characterisation which we have come to expect from the award-winning Harvey.
When the body of a young East European man is found floating in a pond on Hampstead Heath, the case falls to Detective Chief Inspector Karen Shields of the London Murder and Crime Squad. In addition to this latest unexplained death, Karen is also investigating three other murders, the death of a mother and child and the shooting of a youth thought to be involved in drugs. Despite her heavy work load, Karen's immediate superior wants results - and fast!
Meanwhile in Newlyn, Cornwall, Detective Inspector Trevor Cordon has been asked to find a missing daughter who had supposedly gone to visit her father in Hastings but had never turned up and was now thought to be hiding somewhere in London. Cordon makes some enquiries from Cornwall, but gets no results: he thinks no more about the case as the girl had disappeared before and had always reappeared unharmed. He turns his attention to other cases which have cropped up, but when a death occurs in London, Cordon feels compelled to travel to London and begin his search for the missing girl in earnest.
As both investigations proceed, more and more twists and turns are unravelled and it seems as if both cases are going nowhere and that the murders will remain unsolved.
It soon becomes clear that the murder of the young East European man was no isolated incident and as more gruesome murders take place, Karen realises she is dealing with ruthless gangsters involved in drug smuggling, prostitution and human trafficking. Cordon, too, becomes heavily involved in the case of the missing girl and gets much more than he bargained for.
Apart from Harvey's careful research and thorough knowledge of police procedures, his characters are rich
The Outsiders
What is an 'Outsider'?
An ‘outsider’ is someone who does not fit in to what is considered normal or does not belong in a certain group. One can be an ‘outsider’ based on social class, appearance, education level and even family life. In the story, the Greasers are ‘outsiders’ compared to the Socs, who are considered to be normal because of these reasons.
The Greasers are ‘outsiders’ as a group but Ponyboy, Johnny and Darry are the three characters that exemplify being an ‘outsiders’ the most. Most people have a loving family and when they are teenagers, they are still attending school. Johnny’s parents do not care about him. His dad beats him up and his mom constantly yells at him. When he was in the hospital, his mother was angry that he put her through such an ordeal, rather than worried about his condition. He quit school because he always had low grades. Ponyboy, on the other hand, has no parents because they died in a car accident. Therefore, his brother Darry, takes care of him and Sodapop. Ponyboy, not like most Greasers, enjoys going to school. He has both high grades and IQ and enjoys reading. Darry needs to work back-breaking jobs to support him and his brothers. He would have gone to college if he could have afforded it. Darry could have been one of the Socs, if he did not need to take care of his family. This makes him an ‘outsider’ within the Greasers.
In the story, people always believe the Socs over the Greasers. They are judged based on their appearance. This makes the Greasers feel like they are inferior to the Socs because they are part of the lower class rather than the upper class.
The Socs are considered normal but in reality, they are like the Greasers. They have family problems, school problems, they look for trouble and fight just like the Greasers.
What is an 'Outsider'?
An ‘outsider’ is someone who does not fit in to what is considered normal or does not belong in a certain group. One can be an ‘outsider’ based on social class, appearance, education level and even family life. In the story, the Greasers are ‘outsiders’ compared to the Socs, who are considered to be normal because of these reasons.
The Greasers are ‘outsiders’ as a group but Ponyboy, Johnny and Darry are the three characters that exemplify being an ‘outsiders’ the most. Most people have a loving family and when they are teenagers, they are still attending school. Johnny’s parents do not care about him. His dad beats him up and his mom constantly yells at him. When he was in the hospital, his mother was angry that he put her through such an ordeal, rather than worried about his condition. He quit school because he always had low grades. Ponyboy, on the other hand, has no parents because they died in a car accident. Therefore, his brother Darry, takes care of him and Sodapop. Ponyboy, not like most Greasers, enjoys going to school. He has both high grades and IQ and enjoys reading. Darry needs to work back-breaking jobs to support him and his brothers. He would have gone to college if he could have afforded it. Darry could have been one of the Socs, if he did not need to take care of his family. This makes him an ‘outsider’ within the Greasers.
In the story, people always believe the Socs over the Greasers. They are judged based on their appearance. This makes the Greasers feel like they are inferior to the Socs because they are part of the lower class rather than the upper class.
The Socs are considered normal but in reality, they are like the Greasers. They have family problems, school problems, they look for trouble and fight just like the Greasers.
The Legend of Malin Kundang
Once upon a time, on the north coast of Sumatra lived a poor woman and his son. The boy was called Malin Kundang. They didn’t earn much as fishing was their only source of income. Malin Kundang grew up as a skillful young boy. He always helps his mother to earn some money. However, as they were only fisherman’s helper, they still lived in poverty. “Mother, what if I sail overseas?” asked Malin Kundang one day to his mother. Her mother didn’t agree but Malin Kundang had made up his mind. “Mother, if I stay here, I’ll always be a poor man. I want to be a successful person,” urged Malin kundang. His mother wiped her tears, “If you really want to go, I can’t stop you. I could only pray to God for you to gain success in life,” said his mother wisely. “But, promise me, you’ll come home.”
In the next morning, Malin Kundang was ready to go. Three days ago, he met one of the successful ship’s crew. Malin was offered to join him. “Take a good care of yourself, son,” said Malin Kundang’s mother as she gave him some food supplies. “Yes, Mother,” Malin Kundang said. “You too have to take a good care of yourself. I’ll keep in touch with you,” he continued before kissing his mother’s hand. Before Malin stepped onto the ship, Malin’s mother hugged him tight as if she didn’t want to let him go.
It had been three months since Malin Kundang left his mother. As his mother had predicted before, he hadn’t contacted her yet. Every morning, she stood on the pier. She wished to see the ship that brought Malin kundang home. Every day and night, she prayed to the God for her son’s safety. There was so much prayer that had been said due to her deep love for Malin Kundang. Even though it’s been a year she had not heard any news from Malin Kundang, she kept waiting and praying for him.
After several years waiting without any news, Malin Kundang’s mother was suddenly surprised by the arrival of a big ship in the pier where she usually stood to wait for her son. When the ship finally pulled over, Malin Kundang’s mother saw a man who looked wealthy stepping down a ladder along with a beautiful woman. She could not be wrong. Her blurry eyes still easily recognized him. The man was Malin Kundang, her son.
Malin Kundang’s mother quickly went to see her beloved son. “Malin, you’re back, son!” said Malin Kundang’s mother and without hesitation, she came running to hug Malin Kundang, “I miss you so much.” But, Malin Kundang didn’t show any respond. He was ashamed to admit his own mother in front of his beautiful wife. “You’re not my Mother. I don’t know you. My mother would never wear such ragged and ugly clothes,” said Malin Kundang as he release his mother embrace.
Malin Kundang’s mother take a step back, “Malin…You don’t recognize me? I’m your mother!” she said sadly. Malin Kundang’s face was as cold as ice. “Guard, take this old women out of here,” Malin Kundang ordered his bodyguard. “Give her some money so she won’t disturb me again!” Malin Kundang’s mother cried as she was dragged by the bodyguard, ”Malin… my son. Why do you treat your own mother like this?”
Malin Kundang ignored his mother and ordered the ship crews to set sail. Malin Kundang’s mother sat alone in the pier. Her heart was so hurt, she cried and cried. “Dear God, if he isn’t my son, please let him have a save journey. But if he is, I cursed him to become a stone,” she prayed to the God.
In the quiet sea, suddenly the wind blew so hard and a thunderstorm came. Malin Kundang’s huge ship was wrecked. He was thrown by the wave out of his ship, and fell on a small island. Suddenly, his whole body turned into stone. He was punished for not admitting his own mother.
Once upon a time, on the north coast of Sumatra lived a poor woman and his son. The boy was called Malin Kundang. They didn’t earn much as fishing was their only source of income. Malin Kundang grew up as a skillful young boy. He always helps his mother to earn some money. However, as they were only fisherman’s helper, they still lived in poverty. “Mother, what if I sail overseas?” asked Malin Kundang one day to his mother. Her mother didn’t agree but Malin Kundang had made up his mind. “Mother, if I stay here, I’ll always be a poor man. I want to be a successful person,” urged Malin kundang. His mother wiped her tears, “If you really want to go, I can’t stop you. I could only pray to God for you to gain success in life,” said his mother wisely. “But, promise me, you’ll come home.”
In the next morning, Malin Kundang was ready to go. Three days ago, he met one of the successful ship’s crew. Malin was offered to join him. “Take a good care of yourself, son,” said Malin Kundang’s mother as she gave him some food supplies. “Yes, Mother,” Malin Kundang said. “You too have to take a good care of yourself. I’ll keep in touch with you,” he continued before kissing his mother’s hand. Before Malin stepped onto the ship, Malin’s mother hugged him tight as if she didn’t want to let him go.
It had been three months since Malin Kundang left his mother. As his mother had predicted before, he hadn’t contacted her yet. Every morning, she stood on the pier. She wished to see the ship that brought Malin kundang home. Every day and night, she prayed to the God for her son’s safety. There was so much prayer that had been said due to her deep love for Malin Kundang. Even though it’s been a year she had not heard any news from Malin Kundang, she kept waiting and praying for him.
After several years waiting without any news, Malin Kundang’s mother was suddenly surprised by the arrival of a big ship in the pier where she usually stood to wait for her son. When the ship finally pulled over, Malin Kundang’s mother saw a man who looked wealthy stepping down a ladder along with a beautiful woman. She could not be wrong. Her blurry eyes still easily recognized him. The man was Malin Kundang, her son.
Malin Kundang’s mother quickly went to see her beloved son. “Malin, you’re back, son!” said Malin Kundang’s mother and without hesitation, she came running to hug Malin Kundang, “I miss you so much.” But, Malin Kundang didn’t show any respond. He was ashamed to admit his own mother in front of his beautiful wife. “You’re not my Mother. I don’t know you. My mother would never wear such ragged and ugly clothes,” said Malin Kundang as he release his mother embrace.
Malin Kundang’s mother take a step back, “Malin…You don’t recognize me? I’m your mother!” she said sadly. Malin Kundang’s face was as cold as ice. “Guard, take this old women out of here,” Malin Kundang ordered his bodyguard. “Give her some money so she won’t disturb me again!” Malin Kundang’s mother cried as she was dragged by the bodyguard, ”Malin… my son. Why do you treat your own mother like this?”
Malin Kundang ignored his mother and ordered the ship crews to set sail. Malin Kundang’s mother sat alone in the pier. Her heart was so hurt, she cried and cried. “Dear God, if he isn’t my son, please let him have a save journey. But if he is, I cursed him to become a stone,” she prayed to the God.
In the quiet sea, suddenly the wind blew so hard and a thunderstorm came. Malin Kundang’s huge ship was wrecked. He was thrown by the wave out of his ship, and fell on a small island. Suddenly, his whole body turned into stone. He was punished for not admitting his own mother.
The Poor Philanthropist: How and Why the Poor Help Each Other
The poor philanthropist is a monograph reporting research conducted in Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe by the Building Community Philanthropy (BCP) Project. the BCP drew its motivation for the research from the realization that very little is known about organic and local or indigenous modes of ‘community philanthropy’ in the practice of social investment and organized philanthropy. The study therefore, focused on the ethos of ‘help’ between and among the poor in Southern Africa, in order to understand the organization and expression of ‘philanthropic impulses and behavours’ among them. How do poor people help each other and why? In other words, the study is about philanthropy of community (PoC), a horizontal form of philanthropy involving help between and among poor people. Part of the goal was to see how this understanding can enhance practices and theories of development, including the conventional (vertical) philanthropy for community (PfC) which involves help from the rich to the poor, usually through charity and other forms of assistance.The book is not just another reading for poor people or about poverty. It is ‘poor’ people teaching everyone about humanity, social investment, life, giving, receiving, help, community, charity, poverty and poverty alleviation, benevolence, philanthropy, material, spiritual, psychological and social wellbeing. Therefore if your work or interest is related to any of these areas then you will definitely find The poor philanthropist to be an insightful read. This post is a summary of some of the key ideas that you will find in the book.
One of the major findings reported in this monograph is that help among the poor in the countries studied is a ‘normal thing’, it’s not something extraordinary, it is just ‘how things are done’, the way the poor live their lives, and how they ensure the survival of one another. Another finding is that there are ‘unwritten’ rules, moral grounds and expectations that inform the ‘help impulse’ among the poor. And there are sanctions associated with non-compliance. These rules, practices and associated sanctions are deeply woven into the life of the communities. Decisions regarding who deserves or gets help are usually informed by a person or group’s need, character and kinship. People sometimes considered undeserving of help may include, for example, selfish and ungrateful people, as well as healthy but lazy people. In addition, the kinds of help poor people offer each other vary but can be categorized into material (money, goods, and productive assets) and non-material (knowledge, intervention, moral, physical or spiritual support).
The monograph also reports that poor people are motivated by a number of complicated factors which are discussed as three major dimensions of the ‘help impulse’. The first is that there are motivational forces behind the help impulse. Against the more common belief that people choose ‘freely’ whether to give/help or not, among the poor it is usually done out of a ‘deep’ sense of duty or obligation towards those one has received help from or those who cannot help themselves. So in most cases, it is not a free choice. Second, there are certain events or conditions that trigger the help impulse among the poor such as urgent needs (accident situations and natural disasters), extreme vulnerability or lasting human conditions (poverty itself and the effort to overcome it, oppression) change, scarcity or shortage, amongst other things. Third, poor people are motivated to help one another by principles like compassion, pity, reciprocity and cooperation.
Help among poor people, is however, sometimes challenged too. Factors like jealousy, lack of conformity to the help ‘rules’ and scarcity - the inability to help even when one is willing to do so. In addition, the study shows that help is changeable; it is dynamic and has changed over time due to unyielding poverty, unemployment, the loss of traditional values that motivated and maintained help, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Southern Africa.
Based on the findings of this study therefore, philanthropy of community (horizontal philanthropy), is regarded as ‘complex and rich’ in nature. This is seen in the way poor people mobilize and circulate their own resources. What is not needed at any particular time is used to help someone who might need it. And these help practices have contributed to the building of cohesive communities and the sustenance of one another, and the communities in times of hardship.
Following a discussion on theories and the conceptual issues that emerged from the findings of the study, the authors also discussed some implications of the findings especially for the practice of organized philanthropy and social investment. Among other things, they highlighted the need to challenge the assumption that everyone has the same understanding of philanthropic notions and languages; the assumption that philanthropy is only vertical, that is, only the rich ‘give’ and the poor ‘receive’; and the equating of philanthropy with money as the poor evidently mobilize, give and receive both material and non-material resources between and among themselves.
What I have presented here is only a summary of some of the ideas and findings in this well-written and quite readable monograph. There is a lot more in the book that is meant to help people interested in philanthropy and social investment, as well as related issues and practice. It will further enrich their practice and interest through a better understanding of the role that the poor play in poverty alleviation, social cohesion, philanthropy and social investment through the ‘help impulse’
The poor philanthropist is a monograph reporting research conducted in Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe by the Building Community Philanthropy (BCP) Project. the BCP drew its motivation for the research from the realization that very little is known about organic and local or indigenous modes of ‘community philanthropy’ in the practice of social investment and organized philanthropy. The study therefore, focused on the ethos of ‘help’ between and among the poor in Southern Africa, in order to understand the organization and expression of ‘philanthropic impulses and behavours’ among them. How do poor people help each other and why? In other words, the study is about philanthropy of community (PoC), a horizontal form of philanthropy involving help between and among poor people. Part of the goal was to see how this understanding can enhance practices and theories of development, including the conventional (vertical) philanthropy for community (PfC) which involves help from the rich to the poor, usually through charity and other forms of assistance.The book is not just another reading for poor people or about poverty. It is ‘poor’ people teaching everyone about humanity, social investment, life, giving, receiving, help, community, charity, poverty and poverty alleviation, benevolence, philanthropy, material, spiritual, psychological and social wellbeing. Therefore if your work or interest is related to any of these areas then you will definitely find The poor philanthropist to be an insightful read. This post is a summary of some of the key ideas that you will find in the book.
One of the major findings reported in this monograph is that help among the poor in the countries studied is a ‘normal thing’, it’s not something extraordinary, it is just ‘how things are done’, the way the poor live their lives, and how they ensure the survival of one another. Another finding is that there are ‘unwritten’ rules, moral grounds and expectations that inform the ‘help impulse’ among the poor. And there are sanctions associated with non-compliance. These rules, practices and associated sanctions are deeply woven into the life of the communities. Decisions regarding who deserves or gets help are usually informed by a person or group’s need, character and kinship. People sometimes considered undeserving of help may include, for example, selfish and ungrateful people, as well as healthy but lazy people. In addition, the kinds of help poor people offer each other vary but can be categorized into material (money, goods, and productive assets) and non-material (knowledge, intervention, moral, physical or spiritual support).
The monograph also reports that poor people are motivated by a number of complicated factors which are discussed as three major dimensions of the ‘help impulse’. The first is that there are motivational forces behind the help impulse. Against the more common belief that people choose ‘freely’ whether to give/help or not, among the poor it is usually done out of a ‘deep’ sense of duty or obligation towards those one has received help from or those who cannot help themselves. So in most cases, it is not a free choice. Second, there are certain events or conditions that trigger the help impulse among the poor such as urgent needs (accident situations and natural disasters), extreme vulnerability or lasting human conditions (poverty itself and the effort to overcome it, oppression) change, scarcity or shortage, amongst other things. Third, poor people are motivated to help one another by principles like compassion, pity, reciprocity and cooperation.
Help among poor people, is however, sometimes challenged too. Factors like jealousy, lack of conformity to the help ‘rules’ and scarcity - the inability to help even when one is willing to do so. In addition, the study shows that help is changeable; it is dynamic and has changed over time due to unyielding poverty, unemployment, the loss of traditional values that motivated and maintained help, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Southern Africa.
Based on the findings of this study therefore, philanthropy of community (horizontal philanthropy), is regarded as ‘complex and rich’ in nature. This is seen in the way poor people mobilize and circulate their own resources. What is not needed at any particular time is used to help someone who might need it. And these help practices have contributed to the building of cohesive communities and the sustenance of one another, and the communities in times of hardship.
Following a discussion on theories and the conceptual issues that emerged from the findings of the study, the authors also discussed some implications of the findings especially for the practice of organized philanthropy and social investment. Among other things, they highlighted the need to challenge the assumption that everyone has the same understanding of philanthropic notions and languages; the assumption that philanthropy is only vertical, that is, only the rich ‘give’ and the poor ‘receive’; and the equating of philanthropy with money as the poor evidently mobilize, give and receive both material and non-material resources between and among themselves.
What I have presented here is only a summary of some of the ideas and findings in this well-written and quite readable monograph. There is a lot more in the book that is meant to help people interested in philanthropy and social investment, as well as related issues and practice. It will further enrich their practice and interest through a better understanding of the role that the poor play in poverty alleviation, social cohesion, philanthropy and social investment through the ‘help impulse’
Interview With the Vampire
Interview with the Vampire is the first book in Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles. Louis de Pointe du Lac is the main character of this novel and the whole story is a recounting of his life. In the novel Louis explains how he becomes a vampire, his life with Lestat and Claudia as well as the events that have led him to where he is now. The story spans several years and is set in the 18th, 19th and 20th century. Most of the story takes place in New Orleans and Paris but Louis travels to several places around the world during the novel.
His story truly begins when he is 25 years old. He was living in Louisiana and running his family’s indigo plantations in 1791 when his brother dies. Blaming himself for his brother’s death he starts living a self-destructive lifestyle. When he’s approached by the vampire Lestat who offers to make him a vampire he agrees but soon regrets the decision. Louis is looking to find something greater than himself and to escape what he views as the petty annoyances of his mortal life, but it is only after he becomes a vampire that he begins to appreciate his humanity. Louis’ indecision plays a large role in the story. He tends to agonize over every decision and spends a great deal of time regretting them. Throughout the story he often sinks into a state of detachment.
Other important characters include; Lestat, Claudia, Armand, and the boy (Daniel Molloy).
The vampire Lestat is the one who turns Louis into a vampire but he quickly becomes Louis’ adversary as their personalities clash. Lestat is the complete opposite of Louis. He’s impulsive, energetic and loves the power that comes from being a vampire.
Claudia was a young child, approximately five years old, when she’s bitten by Louis then changed into a vampire by Lestat. She eventually attempts to kill Lestat a crime for which she is later put to death.
Armand is over 400 years old when he meets Louis and Claudia. He is the vampire who leads the coven at the Théâtre des Vampires and he kills Claudia so that he can become Louis’ companion.
The boy although he remains unnamed throughout the book his name is revealed later in the series. He’s the one who interviews Louis. At first he doesn’t believe Louis but he soon becomes convinced that the story is true and by the end of the book he’s begging Louis to make him a vampire.
I found ‘Interview with the Vampire’ to be a very entertaining book. The thing that appeals to me the most about the story is how human her characters are in their needs and desires. They’re supposed to be monsters but the characters aren’t painted as simply good or evil. I found their struggle to survive, to find love, companionship, and to recover from all their disappointments fascinating. Some of the good points of the book include; its complex characters, the descriptions of the scenes and the themes raised by the book. Whether she’s describing downtown New Orleans or a dark countryside in Transylvania Rice manages to paint the scene so vividly that I felt as if I was actually there.
One possible weak point that I observed was that the book wasn’t fast paced and this might be a turn-off for some readers. I was also interested in the questions raised by the book. Louis is constantly analysing and philosophizing over everything that happens to him. This raises many questions about faith, God, and the nature of good and evil.
Interview with the Vampire is the first book in Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles. Louis de Pointe du Lac is the main character of this novel and the whole story is a recounting of his life. In the novel Louis explains how he becomes a vampire, his life with Lestat and Claudia as well as the events that have led him to where he is now. The story spans several years and is set in the 18th, 19th and 20th century. Most of the story takes place in New Orleans and Paris but Louis travels to several places around the world during the novel.
His story truly begins when he is 25 years old. He was living in Louisiana and running his family’s indigo plantations in 1791 when his brother dies. Blaming himself for his brother’s death he starts living a self-destructive lifestyle. When he’s approached by the vampire Lestat who offers to make him a vampire he agrees but soon regrets the decision. Louis is looking to find something greater than himself and to escape what he views as the petty annoyances of his mortal life, but it is only after he becomes a vampire that he begins to appreciate his humanity. Louis’ indecision plays a large role in the story. He tends to agonize over every decision and spends a great deal of time regretting them. Throughout the story he often sinks into a state of detachment.
Other important characters include; Lestat, Claudia, Armand, and the boy (Daniel Molloy).
The vampire Lestat is the one who turns Louis into a vampire but he quickly becomes Louis’ adversary as their personalities clash. Lestat is the complete opposite of Louis. He’s impulsive, energetic and loves the power that comes from being a vampire.
Claudia was a young child, approximately five years old, when she’s bitten by Louis then changed into a vampire by Lestat. She eventually attempts to kill Lestat a crime for which she is later put to death.
Armand is over 400 years old when he meets Louis and Claudia. He is the vampire who leads the coven at the Théâtre des Vampires and he kills Claudia so that he can become Louis’ companion.
The boy although he remains unnamed throughout the book his name is revealed later in the series. He’s the one who interviews Louis. At first he doesn’t believe Louis but he soon becomes convinced that the story is true and by the end of the book he’s begging Louis to make him a vampire.
I found ‘Interview with the Vampire’ to be a very entertaining book. The thing that appeals to me the most about the story is how human her characters are in their needs and desires. They’re supposed to be monsters but the characters aren’t painted as simply good or evil. I found their struggle to survive, to find love, companionship, and to recover from all their disappointments fascinating. Some of the good points of the book include; its complex characters, the descriptions of the scenes and the themes raised by the book. Whether she’s describing downtown New Orleans or a dark countryside in Transylvania Rice manages to paint the scene so vividly that I felt as if I was actually there.
One possible weak point that I observed was that the book wasn’t fast paced and this might be a turn-off for some readers. I was also interested in the questions raised by the book. Louis is constantly analysing and philosophizing over everything that happens to him. This raises many questions about faith, God, and the nature of good and evil.
The Secret Life of Bees
Lily Owens grew up being told endlessly that she killed her mother with a revolver she picked up as her parents fought when her mother gathered her belongings to finally leave her cruel father. Lily grew up on a Peach farm in South Carolina where pickers and other labourers were part of the farm. Rosaleen was selected from among the pickers to take care of 4 year old Lily.
One day, when Rosaleen went to town register to vote, a group of men insulted her and both Rosaleen and Lily were put in gaol. T-Ray Lily's father had her released. Lily returned later to release Rosaleen, and so, the adventure began. Lily had a few of her mother's possessions among which was a sticker with Black Madonna Honey and that is exactly where lily and Rosaleen arrived to meet May, June and August the beekeepers who collected and sold honey, wax candles and other bee products with 280 hives in total.
May was distressed over the civil rights issues dominating President Johnson's term. There were white on black violent scenes with racial tensions everywhere. Lily and Rosaleen were safe until when May died the white policeman asked why lily a white girl was living with these coloured women.
The final showdown with T-Ray was telling. The secret lives of bees was fully explored with harmony with nature was fully explored.
Lily Owens grew up being told endlessly that she killed her mother with a revolver she picked up as her parents fought when her mother gathered her belongings to finally leave her cruel father. Lily grew up on a Peach farm in South Carolina where pickers and other labourers were part of the farm. Rosaleen was selected from among the pickers to take care of 4 year old Lily.
One day, when Rosaleen went to town register to vote, a group of men insulted her and both Rosaleen and Lily were put in gaol. T-Ray Lily's father had her released. Lily returned later to release Rosaleen, and so, the adventure began. Lily had a few of her mother's possessions among which was a sticker with Black Madonna Honey and that is exactly where lily and Rosaleen arrived to meet May, June and August the beekeepers who collected and sold honey, wax candles and other bee products with 280 hives in total.
May was distressed over the civil rights issues dominating President Johnson's term. There were white on black violent scenes with racial tensions everywhere. Lily and Rosaleen were safe until when May died the white policeman asked why lily a white girl was living with these coloured women.
The final showdown with T-Ray was telling. The secret lives of bees was fully explored with harmony with nature was fully explored.
Your Road Map for Success
That's what John C. Maxwell says in opening of his books "Your Road Map for Success". And he says that you are wrong if you have the description like that.
In his books your road map for success, he will explain you about what is success, and what you can do to be successful.
"Success is a journey, not a destination", he says. You have to find your dreams and he ask your commitment to always learn to achieve it.
In this book, you will be invited to find your dream. "the journey is more enjoyable if you know the destination" that's what he says In first chapter. In second chapter, you will learn how to grow up and achieve your highest potency. In third chapter, you will learn about how you can help the others and make your life more meaningful. And just not that, you will be guided to overcome the things that can interfere your success. There are 2 things; fear and failed. He explained how you have to addressing these things.
In the last of every chapter, there are summaries about the chapter, and some questions to yourself. You can answer the question directly bellow it.
It's very good book from the leadership expert, John C. Maxwell. If you are boring of your job and what you are doing now, maybe because you didn't enjoy it or maybe because this is not your dream and you didn't want to do it actually.
If you are in the middle of 20 years old or if you are searching for your life purpose, it's very recommended that you have this book.
The tips that Maxwell give in this book is very easy to apply in your life. Why? Because it's only about change your mind, and the way you think. Change inside, not outside. Further, if your mind has changed, your attitude will change too. You will be more discipline. And that's what leader supposed to be.
That's what John C. Maxwell says in opening of his books "Your Road Map for Success". And he says that you are wrong if you have the description like that.
In his books your road map for success, he will explain you about what is success, and what you can do to be successful.
"Success is a journey, not a destination", he says. You have to find your dreams and he ask your commitment to always learn to achieve it.
In this book, you will be invited to find your dream. "the journey is more enjoyable if you know the destination" that's what he says In first chapter. In second chapter, you will learn how to grow up and achieve your highest potency. In third chapter, you will learn about how you can help the others and make your life more meaningful. And just not that, you will be guided to overcome the things that can interfere your success. There are 2 things; fear and failed. He explained how you have to addressing these things.
In the last of every chapter, there are summaries about the chapter, and some questions to yourself. You can answer the question directly bellow it.
It's very good book from the leadership expert, John C. Maxwell. If you are boring of your job and what you are doing now, maybe because you didn't enjoy it or maybe because this is not your dream and you didn't want to do it actually.
If you are in the middle of 20 years old or if you are searching for your life purpose, it's very recommended that you have this book.
The tips that Maxwell give in this book is very easy to apply in your life. Why? Because it's only about change your mind, and the way you think. Change inside, not outside. Further, if your mind has changed, your attitude will change too. You will be more discipline. And that's what leader supposed to be.
Kissing Under the Mistletoe
When the blurb of a book makes you cry, this does not bode well for the reader. Having a box of Kleenex handy while reading this book is a MUST!!!I’ve read a couple books in Bella Andre’s The Sullivan Series. I will admit that I was always intrigued by Mary and her husband Jack. I mean after Jack passed away, Mary never remarried and raised all eight of their kids alone. That shows me what an extraordinary person he had to have been and the power of their love. So when Mary got her own book, I couldn’t wait to read it.Kissing Under The Mistletoe takes you on the journey through the love affair of Mary Ferrer and Jack Sullivan. From the beginning, the book will have you smiling. The book starts out with Mary unwrapping Christmas ornaments that their children made when they were younger and hanging them on the tree. The ornaments all have a special place in Mary’s heart and a lovely child story behind each one. Mary starts to reminisce about her past and the love of her life, Jack. We’re graced with the opportunity to see how they first met, how Mary was an integral part in helping Jack launch a new product, and them falling in love. If you’ve read any of the other books in this series, you will realize the kids definitely took after their parents. Touching, emotional, heartwarming, and loving; this is a story not to be missed. How can you not love a man who says, “I know I don’t have much to give you, and that you deserve absolutely everything. Riches. Beautiful gifts. I can’t give you any of those things. Not yet, anyway. All I can give you is my heart. And every last piece of my soul.” Simply put, Mary and Jack Sullivan show you what true love is really all about. This is definitely a romance book for the ages.
When the blurb of a book makes you cry, this does not bode well for the reader. Having a box of Kleenex handy while reading this book is a MUST!!!I’ve read a couple books in Bella Andre’s The Sullivan Series. I will admit that I was always intrigued by Mary and her husband Jack. I mean after Jack passed away, Mary never remarried and raised all eight of their kids alone. That shows me what an extraordinary person he had to have been and the power of their love. So when Mary got her own book, I couldn’t wait to read it.Kissing Under The Mistletoe takes you on the journey through the love affair of Mary Ferrer and Jack Sullivan. From the beginning, the book will have you smiling. The book starts out with Mary unwrapping Christmas ornaments that their children made when they were younger and hanging them on the tree. The ornaments all have a special place in Mary’s heart and a lovely child story behind each one. Mary starts to reminisce about her past and the love of her life, Jack. We’re graced with the opportunity to see how they first met, how Mary was an integral part in helping Jack launch a new product, and them falling in love. If you’ve read any of the other books in this series, you will realize the kids definitely took after their parents. Touching, emotional, heartwarming, and loving; this is a story not to be missed. How can you not love a man who says, “I know I don’t have much to give you, and that you deserve absolutely everything. Riches. Beautiful gifts. I can’t give you any of those things. Not yet, anyway. All I can give you is my heart. And every last piece of my soul.” Simply put, Mary and Jack Sullivan show you what true love is really all about. This is definitely a romance book for the ages.
POPULAR INDIAN AUTHORS BOOKS
2 States: The Story of My Marriage
Chetan Bhagat is on the rise amongst the younger generations in India and has written five best selling novels so far and has earned the title of “the biggest selling English language novelist in India’s history” by the New York Times. Two of his novels have even inspired Bollywood movies, “3 Idiots” being one of them. After reading 2 States, I can vouch for all the hype that surrounds Mr. Bhagat.
This story focuses on the love story of a Tamil girl, Ananya, and a Punjabi boy, Krish and their mission to get married. It follows the story line of any typical Bollywood movie, I wish I could say there were dramatic deviations from this fact but there was not but the book was still a great read regardless.
Prior to the couple’s decision to get married, Bhagat offers the readers an in-depth look into the premarital relationship of the two, which caught me by surprise. Trust me when I say that very few Bollywood movies would include the details Bhagat did when it comes to Ananya and Krish’s relationship. He executed this in a very tasteful and natural manner without abusing the topic of premarital sexuality as South Asian media so often tends to do. The story flowed well and there was a good balance between their life before wanting to get married, and the mission to get this done.
Bhagat did a fantastic job of introducing the readers to both character’s families and in instances where both parties were present, the juxtaposition exuded tension and discomfort that definitely resonated with the readers. This novel was very much about family and how important it is to get the families approval before embarking on something with a significant other. After reading this book, it is apparent why couples in India enjoy it so much and also where the younger generation stands in terms of relationships and love marriage.
Overall, this was an entertaining, light read. If you enjoy Bollywood stories with a slightly more realistic feel, you will most probably enjoy this story. Check it out!
Chetan Bhagat is on the rise amongst the younger generations in India and has written five best selling novels so far and has earned the title of “the biggest selling English language novelist in India’s history” by the New York Times. Two of his novels have even inspired Bollywood movies, “3 Idiots” being one of them. After reading 2 States, I can vouch for all the hype that surrounds Mr. Bhagat.
This story focuses on the love story of a Tamil girl, Ananya, and a Punjabi boy, Krish and their mission to get married. It follows the story line of any typical Bollywood movie, I wish I could say there were dramatic deviations from this fact but there was not but the book was still a great read regardless.
Prior to the couple’s decision to get married, Bhagat offers the readers an in-depth look into the premarital relationship of the two, which caught me by surprise. Trust me when I say that very few Bollywood movies would include the details Bhagat did when it comes to Ananya and Krish’s relationship. He executed this in a very tasteful and natural manner without abusing the topic of premarital sexuality as South Asian media so often tends to do. The story flowed well and there was a good balance between their life before wanting to get married, and the mission to get this done.
Bhagat did a fantastic job of introducing the readers to both character’s families and in instances where both parties were present, the juxtaposition exuded tension and discomfort that definitely resonated with the readers. This novel was very much about family and how important it is to get the families approval before embarking on something with a significant other. After reading this book, it is apparent why couples in India enjoy it so much and also where the younger generation stands in terms of relationships and love marriage.
Overall, this was an entertaining, light read. If you enjoy Bollywood stories with a slightly more realistic feel, you will most probably enjoy this story. Check it out!
Book: The White Tiger
Author: Aravind Adiga
The White Tiger is the story of Balram, the son of a rickshaw puller, who lives in a small Indian village. He finds the destitution of his family repulsive and decides to break away from it. He is constantly on the lookout of opportunities that could alleviate his poverty. He learns how to drive and manages a driver's job with the landlord of his village. Lady Luck smiles upon him when Balram is asked to accompany the landlord's son to Delhi as a driver. In Delhi, Balram learns the ways of the urban society. A keen observer and a fast learner, Balram realizes very soon that a little dishonesty can bring him enough money for a secure future. So he robs and murders his employer, runs away to Bangalore with his loot and starts his own business there. Years later, Balram is seen as an influential member of the Bangalore power circle successfully steering his career from one height to another.
Social/Historical context:
The book is set in present day India. The White Tiger brings to contrast the disparity between progressive Indian cities and regressive Indian villages. It depicts the different faces of urban and rural corruption, brings to light various cultural stigmas associated with caste and religion, and is able to pin point multiple other societal malaises.
Writing Style:The book is written in the form letters written by the protagonist, Balram, to a Chinese ambassador. The life guiding principles of Balram are depicted through a course of incidents and never seem didactic. The book is fast paced and offers a whole lot of virulent criticism of India. The humor is black. The language raw.
Author: Aravind Adiga
The White Tiger is the story of Balram, the son of a rickshaw puller, who lives in a small Indian village. He finds the destitution of his family repulsive and decides to break away from it. He is constantly on the lookout of opportunities that could alleviate his poverty. He learns how to drive and manages a driver's job with the landlord of his village. Lady Luck smiles upon him when Balram is asked to accompany the landlord's son to Delhi as a driver. In Delhi, Balram learns the ways of the urban society. A keen observer and a fast learner, Balram realizes very soon that a little dishonesty can bring him enough money for a secure future. So he robs and murders his employer, runs away to Bangalore with his loot and starts his own business there. Years later, Balram is seen as an influential member of the Bangalore power circle successfully steering his career from one height to another.
Social/Historical context:
The book is set in present day India. The White Tiger brings to contrast the disparity between progressive Indian cities and regressive Indian villages. It depicts the different faces of urban and rural corruption, brings to light various cultural stigmas associated with caste and religion, and is able to pin point multiple other societal malaises.
Writing Style:The book is written in the form letters written by the protagonist, Balram, to a Chinese ambassador. The life guiding principles of Balram are depicted through a course of incidents and never seem didactic. The book is fast paced and offers a whole lot of virulent criticism of India. The humor is black. The language raw.
The God of Small Things
by Arundhati Roy
One of the best works of contemporary literature. This rare work of fiction by Roy is a gem. Her intensity and intellect are felt in both her nonfiction and in her fiction.
Synopses & ReviewsPublisher Comments:
The story of the tragic decline of an Indian family whose members suffer the terrible consequences of forbidden love, The God of Small Things is set in the state of Kerala, on the southernmost tip of India. Armed only with the invincible innocence of children, the twins Rahel and Esthappen fashion a childhood for themselves in the shade of the wreck that is their family — their lonely, lovely mother, Ammu (who loves by night the man her children love by day), their blind grandmother, Mammachi (who plays Handel on her violin), their beloved uncle Chacko (Rhodes scholar, pickle baron, radical Marxist, bottom-pincher), their enemy, Baby Kochamma (ex-nun and incumbent grandaunt), and the ghost of an imperial entomologist's moth (with unusually dense dorsal tufts).When their English cousin and her mother arrive on a Christmas visit, the twins learn that Things Can Change in a Day. That lives can twist into new, ugly shapes, even cease forever. The brilliantly plotted story uncoils with an agonizing sense of foreboding and inevitability. Yet nothing prepares you for what lies at the heart of it.
Synopsis:"A banquet for all the senses", said "Newsweek" of this bestselling and Booker Prize-winning literary novel--a richly textured first book about the tragic decline of one family whose members suffer the terrible consequences of forbidden love.
About the Author
Arundhati Roy was trained as an architect. She has worked as a production designer and has written the screenplays for two films. She lives in New Delhi. This is her first book.
by Arundhati Roy
One of the best works of contemporary literature. This rare work of fiction by Roy is a gem. Her intensity and intellect are felt in both her nonfiction and in her fiction.
Synopses & ReviewsPublisher Comments:
The story of the tragic decline of an Indian family whose members suffer the terrible consequences of forbidden love, The God of Small Things is set in the state of Kerala, on the southernmost tip of India. Armed only with the invincible innocence of children, the twins Rahel and Esthappen fashion a childhood for themselves in the shade of the wreck that is their family — their lonely, lovely mother, Ammu (who loves by night the man her children love by day), their blind grandmother, Mammachi (who plays Handel on her violin), their beloved uncle Chacko (Rhodes scholar, pickle baron, radical Marxist, bottom-pincher), their enemy, Baby Kochamma (ex-nun and incumbent grandaunt), and the ghost of an imperial entomologist's moth (with unusually dense dorsal tufts).When their English cousin and her mother arrive on a Christmas visit, the twins learn that Things Can Change in a Day. That lives can twist into new, ugly shapes, even cease forever. The brilliantly plotted story uncoils with an agonizing sense of foreboding and inevitability. Yet nothing prepares you for what lies at the heart of it.
Synopsis:"A banquet for all the senses", said "Newsweek" of this bestselling and Booker Prize-winning literary novel--a richly textured first book about the tragic decline of one family whose members suffer the terrible consequences of forbidden love.
About the Author
Arundhati Roy was trained as an architect. She has worked as a production designer and has written the screenplays for two films. She lives in New Delhi. This is her first book.