welcome to my garden
to my Library of Fiction
Welcome
I pick up these books when I want:
To put myself in someone else's shoes, increasing my ability for empathy and understanding through a relatable escape.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
To be a foreigner in NYC during 9/11 This historical fiction tells us what that felt like. Analyzing the struggle between chasing success and holding onto one's beliefs. It shows the tension in politics and social dilemmas that many people went through post 9/11, with the rise of Islamophobia and scrutiny against South Asians. 10/10 These themes are still present today, and this book remains extremely relevant. It takes a look at the common American narrative of "us versus them" and xenophobic tendencies.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
An exploration into Old Hollywood This historical fiction book focuses on a previous "it" girl who finally spills all her secrets to an author she wants to write her biography. It focuses on celebrity gossip and lots of romance, showing us we really never know the truth of glamorized lives. It brings to light the reality of beauty and what is done to attain power in a patriarchal, homophobic society. 10/10
Utopia
One of Thomas Moore's most iconic This tells the story of a perfect society on an island. It's people living in harmony and peace without private property or assets. Through a dialogue, More discusses how the island runs and how these people enjoy a life free of oppression and suffering. He discusses ideas about war, crime, politics, sharing, wealth distribution, and much more. 10/10 Though told in satiric fashion, I think this way of life is possible through overcoming societal barriers towards the way of self-love and communal importance.
The Memory Keeper's Daughter
During the 60's, a man gives away one of his twins Dr. David Henry thinks he is sparing his wife the grief of having a child with Down Syndrome, so he gives this baby to the nurse who is helping him deliver. The story parallels the doctor's life of secrets and sorrow with that of the nurse who kept the rejected twin. A story of morality, compassion, and hope. 9/10
As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow
A heartbreaking story set during the Syrian Revolution This historical fiction follows a hospital volunteer in the midst of war. She needs to decide between fleeing for freedom and staying to help her country. A mix of hope, love, heartbreak, and tragedy. This book had me in tears several times, but the ending? Like no other. 10/10
Blindness
A psychological fiction read Dystopia takes us to a world struck by a sudden "white blindness" that quickly defines society. Humans turn to beasts as this book explores the topics of power, hierarchy, and humanity. 9/10
