monthly book review for february
sweet love, melancholic daydreams and fresh air
University life has been interesting with new faces and fresh choices. It has been quite busy and full-on. During February, I only read one new book. The other two books are ones that I re-read. Hopefully, you find something that warms you.
Happy reading! 📕
The Outsider by Albert Camus (5/5)
The Outsider, written by French author Albert Camus, is a 1942 novella that follows our protagonist, Meursault, an apathetic settler in French Algeria, weeks after his mother’s funeral, kills an unnamed Arab man in Algiers.
My thoughts: I finished this book in a single night because I had to know what would happen next. The writing style is so delicious that I had to consume each word with every hungering bite. The way Camus explains the philosophy of absurdism and existentialism throughout the story is so beautiful. It never felt boring or uneventful. Every chapter had a lesson to ponder about. I adored this book so much. If you want to get into Albert Camus’ works, I recommend starting with this one.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan (4/5)
Crazy Rich Asians, written by Kevin Kwan, is a satirical-romantic-comedy novel. The book highlights and ridicules the lifestyle of upper-class Asian families and society. The story revolves around three wealthy, upper-class Chinese families and how they undermine those people who are not as rich and influential as them. Kwan said the novel was loosely based on his childhood in Singapore.
My thoughts: This book made me laugh so much. The characters and all their intricacies are so enjoyable to read. I learnt a lot by reading this book and watching the film. Honestly, it made me reflect on the different ways upper-class families behave. Gorgeous storyline with delicate themes told humorously.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde (4.4/5)
The Picture of Dorian Gray, written by Irish writer Oscar Wilde, is a philosophical novel. It tells the story of a young, beautiful man who trades his soul for eternal youth and then descends further and further into a moral abyss until he discovers there is, after all, a price to pay for his actions.
My thoughts: This is one of the best Gothic fiction novels I have read. The way it combines the elements of gothic literature with the purpose of youth, narcissism and the corrupting influence of hedonism. I adore how the novel explores the power of art and the relationship between the artist and the subject. Lovely imagery and a well-crafted lesson. You better be strong in your convictions because this book is known to shake many people and their beliefs.
“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies.” — George R.R. Martin