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astridandlouise's Reviews (665)
It was a good book. Written by De Crespigny but from Al Jenabi's perspective. The book tells the story of his life. The perils, the ups the downs, the good and bad and the struggle to give his family a brighter future away from the dictatorship of Saddam. It is sad and there were moments where I was very close to tears. Towards the end of the book I felt a great deal of anger towards the Australian Government and their overwhelming desire to stick to their version of the truth. No matter what verdict is reached, they forever stand by their decision as being the right one, even when they are wrong. There is nothing to belittle a person or a Government in this circumstance by admitting your faults or by being wrong. Yet as history has shown us and as our current political figures continue to prove to us, a Government in power is never "wrong". With this comes the unfortunate truth that ordinary everyday people must suffer the consequences of their stubbornness as a result. But from these unfortunate tales we see a glimpse of the people trying to right the wrongs, sitting unnoticed in the background trying to help people who have been wronged and faced unfair injustices. These are the people in life that you remember.
beauty and the beast is my favourite Disney movie of all time, and I've had never had the opportunity to read the original story that the movie was based on.
there are a few differences, but it was a beautiful story nonetheless - the only upsetting thing is that it is so short. but I definitely appreciate it for what it is.
there are a few differences, but it was a beautiful story nonetheless - the only upsetting thing is that it is so short. but I definitely appreciate it for what it is.
I received an ARC of this book with thanks to HarperCollins Publishers Australia, 4th Estate via NetGalley.
I don't know if it's possible that this book could've come at a more poignant moment for society. It has definitely been an eventful 2020 for Australia and not for the affirming reasons we've become accustomed to.
"Being awestruck dwarfs us, humbles us, makes us aware we are part of a universe unfathomably larger than ourselves; it even, social scientists say makes us kinder and more aware of the needs of the community around us."
Baird has prompted us to remember to seek awe, which in turn inspires us to reexamine our place in the universe and how we are such a small part of it. This reminder should humble us and ensure that we maintain a kindness to the people around us and the space we inhabit. The chapters addressed to her children were incredibly beautiful and moving and full of wonderment. (I was especially fond of Chapter 11 - Letter to a Young Woman.) Baird's commentary surrounding religion toward the end of the book I found highly relatable and was the most engaging part of the book. It was worded with such truth and eloquence; it really verbalised my relationship with religion so well.
Reading this book was a timely reminder of everything I aspire to do and be daily to keep me grounded, mentally positive and provide me with a sense of happiness and calm. It was nice to actively review these steps that I take, as they do become second nature over time, but it is reassuring that they make a positive impact on my life.
I don't know if it's possible that this book could've come at a more poignant moment for society. It has definitely been an eventful 2020 for Australia and not for the affirming reasons we've become accustomed to.
"Being awestruck dwarfs us, humbles us, makes us aware we are part of a universe unfathomably larger than ourselves; it even, social scientists say makes us kinder and more aware of the needs of the community around us."
Baird has prompted us to remember to seek awe, which in turn inspires us to reexamine our place in the universe and how we are such a small part of it. This reminder should humble us and ensure that we maintain a kindness to the people around us and the space we inhabit. The chapters addressed to her children were incredibly beautiful and moving and full of wonderment. (I was especially fond of Chapter 11 - Letter to a Young Woman.) Baird's commentary surrounding religion toward the end of the book I found highly relatable and was the most engaging part of the book. It was worded with such truth and eloquence; it really verbalised my relationship with religion so well.
Reading this book was a timely reminder of everything I aspire to do and be daily to keep me grounded, mentally positive and provide me with a sense of happiness and calm. It was nice to actively review these steps that I take, as they do become second nature over time, but it is reassuring that they make a positive impact on my life.
Book Club: Caellum's Selection
Generally what I expected from an "unauthorised celebrity memoir". There were a few intriguing stories and some ridiculous additions (Spice Stars) but it failed to hold my attention for long periods of time. I enjoyed the nostalgia it bought, but that was about it really.
Generally what I expected from an "unauthorised celebrity memoir". There were a few intriguing stories and some ridiculous additions (Spice Stars) but it failed to hold my attention for long periods of time. I enjoyed the nostalgia it bought, but that was about it really.