As this blog focuses a lot on my books and my writing, I think it is only fitting to give some recognition to the books I’m reading that serve both as entertainment and inspiration to my writing.
Of course, as I have been focusing so much on writing this year, my reading has suffered a bit. I normally set a challenge to read 60 books each year, and normally, I have no problem meeting that goal. This year, however, I’m behind schedule. Like really behind. Like eight books behind schedule.
Fortunately, I did manage to finish two books in March, not counting the textbook I read for class. I thought I would share them with you as a chance for you to share your thoughts if you have read one or both of them. I would love to hear your thoughts on these, as well as other books you think I should read.
Throne of Glass by Sarah Maas
One of my students lent me her copy of this book, which is the first in a series. I’ll be honest, I hadn’t heard good things going into it, so I was not all that excited to pick it up. But in fairness to my student, I wanted to give it a try. Overall, it’s a decent book.
My biggest issue is that the main character is such an egotistical brat who knows she is beautiful and does not understand why people are not falling for her. In other words, she’s not the most likable protagonist.
What this book does have going for it, though, is a Battle Royale-esque competition to see who will be the king’s new hero, some interesting fantasy elements, and a murder mystery. Fortunately, they were enough to keep me reading even though I wanted to smack the main character silly.
Overall, I’d give it a 2.5 out of 5.
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Unlike the previous book, this was a book I looked forward to reading. Other than reading his story arc in the Black Panther comics, I had not read Coates before. I am really glad I did.
Written as a letter to his son, Between the World and Me serves to share Coates experiences as a Black man in an America that is defined by whiteness. It’s an America where Black lives and experiences are not equal to those of white people, as shown through the violence we see play out day after day.
I would say that this is required reading for anyone who wants to grow in their ally-ship, understand their privilege, and work toward equity. America is not kind to people of color, most especially those who are Black, and works such as this serve as a reminder that the fight is ongoing. I look forward to reading more by Coates, as well as others who write about race and its impact.
Overall, I’d give this 5 out of 5.
Mindy Kinnaman 