'In The Line of Fire" by Pervez Musharaff and "The Attack" by Yasmina Khadra, "The White Tiger" by Aravind Adiga. These are the books I have read most recently outside our course.
I encourage all students to read books outside the course, reading good writers is one of the best ways to improve your mind and your critical writing skills for English, ToK and the EE.
A student recommended "Sophie's World" and I have ordered it from flipkart.
Use the library - it's a great resource and the staff are keen to help students.
Has anyone read this book? What do you know about Ruth Praber Jhabvala?
I encourage all students to read books outside the course, reading good writers is one of the best ways to improve your mind and your critical writing skills for English, ToK and the EE.
A student recommended "Sophie's World" and I have ordered it from flipkart.
Use the library - it's a great resource and the staff are keen to help students.
Has anyone read this book? What do you know about Ruth Praber Jhabvala?
I'm reading the White Tiger by Aravind Adiga. It's really interesting...
ReplyDeletei am reading the "les miserables" by victor hugo.
ReplyDeleteI'm reading "Illusions" by Richard Bach for the third time, I think. I love it, it's amazing. It's set in the author's past, when he flew a small plane taking passengers from place to place. As he flies around Illinois, he meets a man who calls himself a messiah and amazes Bach beyond imagination. I think it's really worth reading; deep, and filled to the brim with intriguing ideas. It could have several very interesting TOK angles too.
ReplyDeletethanks for starting our online book club guys - well done
ReplyDeleteI'm interested mainly in fiction and I just completed the last book, "Inheritance" from the Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini.
ReplyDeleteI've also read 'Inheritance' by Christopher Paolini, and I'm currently reading 'Burnt Shadows' by Kamilla Shamsie. It's a very interesting book so far, and its set in pre-atom bomb Nagasaki, and then moves to pre partition India, then goes to America and then to Afghanistan. It's about how a Japanese woman falls in love with a German-English man, but he dies in Nagasaki. She goes to find his relatives in Delhi where she falls in love with the muslim servant. Thats as far as I've reached so far.
ReplyDeleteI'm reading 'Sarah's key' by Tatiana de Rosnay
ReplyDeleteI haven't gotten too far yet, but it's set in Paris during two time periods: 1942, during the holocaust, and 2002 in modern Paris. Julia, an american-french woman during the 21st century is connected to Sarah, a girl who locked her brother in a cupboard when the French police came to get her family, believing she would be back to get him out.
it's an extremely well written book, and the story flows beautifully as the story changes from Julia's to Sarah's.
*reached.
ReplyDeleteI've just finished re-reading The Lord of e Flies by William Golding and it's had a lasting impact on me even the second time around.
ReplyDeleteThe Lord of the Flies is an unadulterated commentary on the savagery that is dormant within all of us.
through an interesting tale of a group of boys deserted on an island, Golding implicates his endorsement of Darwin's "survival of the fittest" theory and his view that all order will be obliterated by individual desire for power (spurred by our feral instinct).
My favorite character in the book was Roger. he is one of the boys that represents 'brutality', however Roger had a malevolent nature long before the other boys succumbed to savagery. this dark characteristic in a boy not more than 12 years old intrigued me.
for anyone who hasn't already read "the lord of the flies", i highly recommend it!
thank you all for sharing - Grade X1 are super!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to start reading the Kite Runner. The last book i read was the Digital Fortress by Dan Brown.
ReplyDeleteI read MAUS: my father bleeds history by Art Spiegelman
ReplyDeleteits another graphic novel and is basically about the author's father who is a jew and the survivor of the holocaust.
the most interesting concept in this graphic novel is that animals are used to represent people from various religion, nationalities ( the jews are represented by the mice and cats represent the germans.)
i hoping to read the second edition as well titled MAUS:And Here My Troubles Began
(after Persepolis, graphic novels have become my favourite ones)
:)
i have also read The Alchemist by Paolo Coehlo which is about a boy who trusted and followed his dreams.
ReplyDeletetwo of my favourite quotes from the book are
“It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting”
and
“..whoever you are, or whatever it is you do, when you really want something, it’s because that desire originated in the soul of the universe. It’s your mission on earth.”
*I am hoping
ReplyDeletei read this book called ' The Naked Face ' by Sidney Sheldon. its about this psychoanalyst who lives a normal alone at home. But one day, all his patients one by one are murdered.the murderer is roaming around waiting for the right time to kill the doctor.
ReplyDeletethe doctor is very scared and calls the police but the police thinks that the doctor is the prime suspect.
the doctor is confused whether what to do and so goes to a private detective. people start accusing each other for the murders.
in the end, the murderer is one of the patients husband who feels insecured of his wife. so he tries to kill the doctor but he is unsuccessful because they catch the wrong guy.
the doctor uses his skills to get a hold of the murderer and the police kills him in the end.
thanks again everyone for posting, talk to each other too and encourage each other to keep reading, great to read these comments, its an honour to teach you all!
ReplyDeleteAltough it might sound cliched, I am reading 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. The book is set in the 1940s in New York City. It deals with the 'Five Families' that comprise of the Italian Mafia, focusing mainly on the story of the Corleone's (one of the 5 families). Through the family's internal and external disputes, Puzo gives us an insight as to what 'Mafia Wars' were like back then.
ReplyDeleteFrom the onset of the story, we are introduced to the leader of the Corleone's, Don Corleone. One cannot help but notice Don Corleone's sheer authority and charisma. Not only does he influence the Italian Mafia, he also has benevoalent motives which further intrigues the reader, resulting in a certain liking towards this complex character.
Moreover, Puzo's rather Italian style of narration and his vivid descriptions enhance the excitement in this enthralling story. If you haven't read it already, it's a thumbs up from me :)
I recently read Fever Pitch by Nick Hornby, its about the authors childhood, where he grew up supporting Arsenal although he had a local team. Despite the high's and low's in his life, he constantly supported Arsenal.
ReplyDeleteHe also elaborates on how important football is in british culture, to such an extent that opposition fans inflict physical harm on other supporters, such as the author. The author reminisces about certain instances where he was bullied physically. The book reveals how passionate the English are for football, and any student who follows football religiously will be able to relate with the author.
I would recommend anyone and everyone to read this book, for it doesn't actually require any knowledge about football nor does it require a great vocabulary to enjoy. A great read!
i have read 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. The book is set in New York City, during the 1940's and 1950's where organized crime was at its peak; The Mafia period.
ReplyDeleteA predominant theme that Puzo portrays in the book revolves around Family. The protagonist Michael Corleone is the son and heir to Don Vito Corleone's Mafia empire. Initially, the protagonist is different from his father. But, as time passes, one can see that "the apple does not fall to far from the tree". Michael too like his father enters the Family business. Although the book portrays the protagonist as a criminal, he is still seen as a good sided person, because whatever actions are taken by him, they are for the betterment of his own family.
Recently, I read 'The Hungry Tide' by Amitav Ghosh. This book narrates the story of many individuals; ranging from a rustic fisherman to a young american scientist. Eventually it is the tide of the Sunderbans which ties all their stories together. I love books like these- where the characters are so vivid,they become a part of your life. What's more, the backdrop of a rural village and open sea gives out a vibe which is both peaceful and haunting. The flood at the end comes as a twist just where it seemed the story was becoming predictable.
ReplyDeleteI just finished reading "The Race" by Clive Cussler, only a few days back. I am really interested in spying, espionage and military ops. The many coincidences, ironies and minute details of these kind of books is what amazes me.
ReplyDeleteThe title says it all for this book, "The Race", the book is essentially about a race. But not just any race. A Newspaper magnate deicides to fly a pack of airplanes across America. Now, in today's time, this would seem like a very small task. BUT the best part o the novel is that it is set in the early 20th century, 1920 to precise! Now in that day and age, it was a elephantine task to fly across America, from New York to California. And to add to all the hardships, there's a killer/saboteur on the loose.
In one phrase, I would describe this book as "witty, cunning and full of suspense."
Hi, Clive Cussler fan, you appear here as unknown, may I ask who are you please?
ReplyDeleteI have read the book, "Imagining India" by Nandan Nilekani, the co-founder of one of the best IT companies in India, Infosys.
ReplyDeleteThis book is highly interesting as it does not re-tell a story of business and economics booms and slumps and how to manage a workplace effectively. Instead, Nilekani takes a different approach by talking about the ideas that have led India to progress, will lead to further progress and those that are also holding our nation back. He brings the book alive with allusions to the past situation in India when the British were ruling and how their default in bridging the social gap is something that India must tackle even today.
The author goes on to talk about two different INDIAs. He divides them in terms of literate and illiterate, rich and poor AND private and public sector. He points out the obvious divide between the two in each case and says that the opportunity to open new doors has led to his as even though SOME people have made use of the "new" India, MANY others are incapable to do so.
This book is almost didactic as it seems to persuade you into believing its credo. For example, the author convinces the readers that the growing population of India is actually a boon to the country, even though once it was considered a deplorable situation. He points out the obvious truths that when the world will turn gray, India's average age will still hover around 25, creating the largest working force in the world.
One part of the book that truly struck me and the part that summarizes India and its contemporary transformation is the part about the Tata Nano. the $2500 car, set to change the automobile industry, represents India's growing aspirations for the future and the budding confidence among young entrepreneurs to display their creations on the world stage.
I am currently reading 'How the Mind Works' by Steven Pinker,up till where i have reached he compares humans to electronics. he tries to explain the complexities of the mind and where sight, thought, feeling etc. have come from.
ReplyDeleteI am simultaneously reading 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho. it is the story of a boy who has the courage to wander beyond his comfort zone in order to reach his goal or destiny. It is a little slow at the beginning but gets better and more interesting as you progress.
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ReplyDeleteI recently re-read the book "The Lightening Thief" by Rick Riordan. The first book in a series that i have read, called "The Olympians". The book revolves around fantasy and adventure but also concentrates on Greek religion and ancient mythology which i find very interesting. Greek Mythology has always been a subject that i could never see through; it is something that intrigues me and that is what drew me into reading these amazing books. Riordan brilliantly weaves Modern life with the Greek Gods and ancient myths leaving no room for error in accuracy.
ReplyDeleteThe book is about a young boy who lives an ordinary life, until he realizes that he is a demi-God, ie. born of human and God. Being a son of one of "The Big Three", Poseidon, the boy grows to become a great fighter and eventually helps the Gods to save their land from the Titans. Many may glance over the books cover or blurb and be misguided to think it childish and non-sensical, but in reality, the book provides deep insight into Greek mythology which keeps the reader interested and the fantasy aspect probes him/her to keep reading. The book has received a lot of praise and I would definitely recommend it to anybody interested in Greek Mythology.
I am currently reading ‘Ambani and Sons’ by Hamish McDonald. It is a book about one of the wealthiest families of the world. Dhirubhai Ambani faced poverty as a child, yet, his company Reliance is among India’s most successful companies. This fact fascinated me, and prompted me to read this book.
ReplyDeleteThe book throws light on Ambani’s ambitious, vindictive nature, his charisma and his immense risk-taking capacity. It narrates incidents from his life that help the reader gain an insight into the different layers of his personality. Moreover, the book integrates the complicated political and economic factors in India that facilitated his rise to power.
I think that the vivid descriptions and objective approach of the writer has been a catalyst to making this book very interesting. He does not romanticize Ambani, nor does he depict him as being wicked. The reader is able to see both the sides of the same coin; the dark aspects of his personality, as well as his positive traits.
This book has helped me gain a better understanding of the corporate life in India and the convoluted links between politics and business. I enjoyed reading it a lot.
this is great, Grade X1 critical thinkers, keep up the good work....
ReplyDeleterhea k said...I recently finished reading Message In A Bottle by Nicholas Spark...It is a beautiful love story filled with anger,hope,confusion,fear all wrapped in one. It renews one's faith in destiny. It makes one realize that true love is rare and it is the only thing that gives life true meaning. The book captures the strengths of love but at the same time reveals its fragility. This book is about a 36 year old single mother who finds a love letter in a half buried bottle while jogging. the letters are written by a man Garret.. these letters are the only way for him to express his undying love for his lost wife. the letters are beautifully composed and each letter brought tears in my eyes..he talks about the emptiness in his soul when she is not around...These letters raise questions in her mind and intrigue her. She slowly falls in love with him and goes on a search to him...the two are brought together by fate, luck , destiny or some powerful energy???? I think what makes it unique from other love stories is that it takes you through a transition from an old love story to a new one... its a proof that LOVE can be enjoyed the second time around just like the two of them did... A beautiful characterization of the human heart..the conflict, pain and loss experienced as one experiences the bliss of love.. the end is tragic and heartbreaking however regenerating the power of love..The emotional intensity is overwhelming...I would recommend this book to those who love love stories...
ReplyDeletei jut re-read 'Room' by Emma Donghue. this would have been my third or fourth reading of the book. its a very powerful story about a woman who was kidnapped and repeatedly raped by her captor. she goes on to have his child, all whilst living in a room eleven feet by eleven feet. she works very hard to keep her son entertained and comes up with all sorts of games. he loves watching TV and all the characters are his friends. the story culminates to a point where they are able to escape, but the outside world his too much for a five or six year old who's whole existence has been within four walls. and the rest of it is how they deal with all the media attention they receive.
ReplyDeletethe most unique part of the book is that the whole story is told in Jacks voice who doesn't really understand whats happening. it is devastating and touching and funny at the same time. i will definitely read it a fifth time.
also, she's Irish :)
ReplyDeleteit's a small world, Rhea, Emma's father, Denis Donoghue, was one of my lecturers at University College Dublin, many moons ago. He had done his Ph.D at Cambridge and came back to Dublin as Professor of English. Emma's book was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize a few years ago. Her dad made such an impression on me that I can still remember some of his lectures!Our lecture theatre held 1000 students and he was a commanding presence.
ReplyDeleteI am currently reading 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho. The last books I read were 'The Last Song' by Nicholas Sparks and 'The Host' by Stephenie Meyer." (It is nothing like Twilight!)
ReplyDeleteI have just finished reading 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, a captivating book exploring interesting topics. The 'mockingbird' stands for Justice and truth.
ReplyDeleteThe book talks about Scout and Jem's childhood in Alabama (during the Great Depression era) and how a series of events including a false rape accusation, attacks and murder, shook their innocence, shaped their character and gave them a deeper insight to human nature, through a wide range of events and characters.
The author examines racism, judgement, oppression and injustice (without exhibiting feelings of despair in her tone or language) through an episodic and enriching story, narrated by a Southern Child, who called himself Scout "Finch".
The author seems to impress upon her readers how poverty reinforces the hypocritical nature of a race-based class system.
The gothic theme is effectively portrayed and the consistent use of a wide variety of effective vocabulary makes the book indelible in our minds. The book deals with themes like the coexistence of Good and Evil, courage and compassion, the presence of Social Inequality and the importance of moral education in our lives.
It is truly a spectacular 'American Classic' because of its ability to draw sympathy out of readers as much today as when it was written back in 1960.
Harper Lee's book is indubitably remarkable and impactful. If you have not gotten a chance to peruse it yet, I highly recommend you to do so.
I have just finished reading 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, a captivating book exploring interesting topics. The 'mockingbird' stands for Justice and truth.
ReplyDeleteThe book talks about Scout and Jem's childhood in Alabama (during the Great Depression era) and how a series of events including a false rape accusation, attacks and murder, shook their innocence, shaped their character and gave them a deeper insight to human nature, through a wide range of events and characters.
The author examines racism, judgement, oppression and injustice (without exhibiting feelings of despair in her tone or language) through an episodic and enriching story, narrated by a Southern Child,named Scout "Finch".
The gothic theme is effectively portrayed and the consistent use of a wide variety of effective vocabulary makes the book indelible in our minds. The book deals with themes like the coexistence of Good and Evil, courage and compassion, the presence of Social Inequality and the importance of moral education in our lives.
It is truly a spectacular 'American Classic' because of its ability to draw sympathy out of readers as much today as when it was written back in 1960.
Harper Lee's book is indubitably remarkable and impactful. If you have not gotten a chance to peruse it yet, I highly recommend you to do so.
i have started reading "Eric Segal's" "Love Story" because i am interested in the romantic genre. The last book i read was "Wuthering Heights" by "Emily Bronte."
ReplyDeleteI have just finished reading the book "The Under Cover Economist" by Tim Harford, where the author uncovers the mystery behind many economic doubts, or situations, including the idea behind why you can never purchase a "good" second hand car. An area of the book i found very interesting, is Harford's view on the importance of location for any shop. For example, a coffee shop outside a train station in a busy town like New York can make gigantic sums of money, due to its location and availability. the reason i wrote about this in the "English" book club could be its co-relation with Literature. Location of a shop could be just as significant as setting of a story or poem in literature, and whether the "location" adds to the appeal of the construct.
ReplyDeleteI just finished reading “The Alchemist” by Paul Coelho. After reading the first few pages I was not so sure if it was my ‘cup of tea’, but decided to proceed further anyway. I’m glad I did.
ReplyDeleteIt’s a poignant story of a courageous boy in search of a treasure he saw in his dream and his persistence in pursuing it, in spite of all the hitches he encounters on the way. Through the eyes of Santiago, a young shepherd, we encounter his experiences on the journey that rewards him with knowledge, the understanding of unconditional love and finding himself.
Using deceptively simple words and plenty of imagery, Coelho is trying to tell us that dreams, though an essential part of every individuals life, without which we would never have hope, must be acted on with faith in order to achieve what we desire.
i just read 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' by Stephen Chbosky. It's a coming of age novel, which touches on topics like rape, domestic abuse, homosexuality and drug use. It begins in April 1991.The novel is written in the form of letters to an unknown receiver by a boy named Charlie. He tells them in the first letter itself not to look for him as he will be changing all the names he mentions.I thought it was a great book, because charlie is shy and unpopular and when he finally does make friends, they are unconventional and truly appreciate him for who he is. the book made me challenge how i perceive such 'wallflowers' in real life, and question my judgement.
ReplyDeleteI am currently reading 2 books at the moment. The first one being The English Patient by Micheal Ondaajte. It is basically about this nurse who stays back in an abandoned villa to tend to this patient who was rescued from a burning plane. He has been severely damaged and one cannot even find out his identity or even name. This patient also is haunted by his memories of passion and betrayal. The Second World War was closing down and nothing was left apart from these few papers which he clung on to. A copy of the Histories by Herodotus, which is about the painful love tragedy.
ReplyDeleteThe second book is A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink this actually is a very practical book to read in which the author talks about the two parts of our brain and how the creative people will now taken over like artists, poets, inventors etc. It is also inclined to business studies but is convincing to a point. The author goes through a scan to find out about his brain. I am still reading it so i will get back one i am done :).
The phrase 'never judge a book by its cover' applies in particular to the book I'm currently reading- Politically Correct Bedtime Stories by James Finn Garner.
ReplyDeleteIn this intriguing book, Garner revists the fairy-tale world we were (or still are :P) so accustomed to. However, this time, Garner introduces 'politically acceptable' terminology to describe bedtime stories such as 'Little Red Riding Hood', 'The Three Little Pigs' and many more!
It is through this new lens that Garner is able to address issues such as feminism, human rights, and other post-modern problems that are prevalent even in today's era.
Garner's use of anthropomorphism, and other such literary devices, contributes greatly in deciphering the complexities behind these seemingly 'simple' stories.