Book Club! (and apology)

So, this month was a roller coaster, huh?

Though I didn’t properly announce it, this month was what I call Down Series month. All my posts were super down in the dumps.

Reason being, January is a harsh month to go through. Divorce rates get a little higher. Bankruptcy rates shake. Seasonal depression hits. There’s no sun. There’s no money. And so many people get sick. It’s known to be the most depressing month of the year.

Not to downplay the severity January can bring, I figured if I got a bunch of sad out all at once, the rest of the year can be brighter. It’s an experiment I’m willing to try.

And if January is getting you down, know that the next month is right around the corner. You can get through it, and seek help if you need it.

I’m sorry for bringing you down with me. Hopefully we can still be friends?

Moving on. Until the videos get up and going again, I’m gonna do monthly bookclub here (doki doki).

The first book I read was Ordeal by Innocence by Agatha Christie. If you didn’t know, Christie is a favorite. Right up there with my Poe man. The last couple of books I read of hers were meh, but this one reminded me why I love Agatha Christie’s writing! Cleverly put together with great relatable characters (and one over dramatic one). And, as usual, I couldn’t figure out the ending. 4.5/5 stars.

The second book I read was You are a Badass by Jen Sincero. I actually don’t usually subscribe to self-help books, but everyone kept talking about this one so I gave it a shot. And I can understand why everyone was talking about it: it’s great! If you’re sceptical, like me, about self-help books but desperately need, like me, to help yourself, this is the book to check out. 4.5/5 stars.

The third book I read was a library book store pickup from the 80s called Why Did She Have to Die? The title pulled me in, even if the cover was a vomit of 80s. What I really loved about this book is it accurately depicts the stages of grief. I read this in one sitting because I was invested in the protagonist’s grief. 4/5 stars.

The fourth book is Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli. I was told about this book from a friend of mine who loved it in her youth, so I read it. And loved it. If I could fault one thing, it’s the cliffhangers he always puts in. ‘It would never be the same after tomorrow.’ Too much. However, it has great messages and reminds me of how cruel high school was (and how much I wish I had a friend like Stargirl). Young or old, read this. 4/5 stars.

The fifth and final book I read was Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. I’ve always been fascinated by TV and movie versions, but I never read the book until now. Quite different than I expected. I still debate whether it was a good or bad difference. I do prefer ‘The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen’ version. 3/5 stars.

And voila, a good start. I read five books when I only needed to read three. I’ve got a head start on my year-long challenge.

Let me know what you think of these books if you’ve read them, and leave me suggestions for books! I’m always looking for more.

Remember, starting Friday we’re back to uplifting stories and confident messages.

Hugs!

Alexandra

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