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Country on the Edge of Nowhere
Country on the Edge of Nowhere by Danilo López Román is a captivating collection of poems expertly translated into both Spanish and English. These poems delve deep into the intricate web of political, economic, and social struggles within a country, all through the lens of an enigmatic character simply referred to as “man.” The narrative follows the footsteps of a man who embarks on a profound introspective journey, grappling with themes of power dynamics, corruption, and social injustice. As he reflects on the shortcomings of his generation in rectifying these injustices, a sense of disillusionment seeps through his words. At the same time, a glimmer of hope for a brighter future persists. This introspection offers readers a glimpse into the inner workings of the human mind, touching on existential subjects.
The themes explored by Danilo López Román resonate strongly with those who have experienced oppressive regimes – the unrest, the injustices, the harsh impoverishment, the erosion of values under autocratic rule, and the weight of regrets. Throughout the collection, the narrator transforms from an idealistic activist to a lost soul, adrift in the “endless darkness of nowhere.” In coping with this bleak reality, the character begins to conjure alternate realities in his mind, hinting at a coping mechanism to navigate the harsh truths of his world. Structurally unconventional, Country on the Edge of Nowhere rebels against traditional poetry norms by opting for a prose-like format, using lines instead of stanzas in many of the poems. This unconventional structure mirrors the soul of Danilo López Román and invites more flexible readers to engage with the text on a deeper level.
Amidst the turbulence depicted in Country on the Edge of Nowhere, Danilo López Román provides a poignant exploration of the human experience within a tumultuous societal backdrop. It serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity, even when teetering on the precipice of nowhere.
Pages: 58 | ISBN : 1639889515
Where We Come From
All That This House Has to Offer is a collection of stories showcasing the heritage of Russian Mennonite immigrants and the struggles they faced moving to a new land while trying to hold onto their traditions. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Some of these stories started out as simple anecdotes, like the one about Jacob and Katie and how they met, quite coincidentally, at the village fountain after the war. The same with the visits back to Austria. Stories that were just fun to recount. And then I found myself fleshing these stories out and as they evolved, it occurred to me that it might be special for my siblings and the next generation to read these and to have them as keepsakes.
There was a sense of urgency to complete the “Jacob and Katie” story, in particular, after the death of my mother in 2016 passed and then the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the situation was a replay of what my parents had told us over and over again as we were growing up. Fleeing their village, clambering onto trains to get out, people losing sight of one another, losing loved ones completely, and stories of finding one another again. The core of this story was always going to be Jacob and Katie running into each other after the war, but it needed some context.
The quote by Thomas King – “The truth about stories is that that’s all we are” – seemed particularly poignant. I wanted to tell our stories.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The importance of sharing stories, the sense of family and history, where we come from, the importance of remembering and honoring that. The struggle and tension between old and new; how to navigate this and still maintain a sense of family and community and respect for one another’s decisions. The importance of faith and tradition. In the end, family is all you’ve got.
What was one of the hardest parts in All That This House Has to Offer for you to write?
Good question! The hardest part was not writing the stories themselves, but releasing the stories out into the world. Having family members, immediate and not so immediate, reading my personal stories and struggles, revealing things about family that perhaps they would have preferred not to be revealed. And yet, that is what life is. It is not all rosy, all good or all bad. People are complicated and complex, and never more so than the people we love. Nothing is all one or the other.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
One of my goals as a writer in this book was to portray intergenerational storytelling and the importance thereof. I decided to write some of the stories, specifically, “Jacob and Katie” as told to me by my mother and then in “Happy Birthday”, me telling the story to my own daughter. It seemed a good way to connect with readers as well, both young and old. Writing and seeing events unfold through the eyes of my younger self and then again as an adult was an interesting experience, to find myself right in that moment.
As the stories came together and when it came to choosing the order of the stories, I saw these not only as heritage stories, but really, the circle of life. And the women emerged strong and resilient in all generations! One generation flowing into the other, quite organically.
One thing I set out to do was to make the house a constant in the stories; the house and all that it offers and represents – home and hearth – family, safety, security, culture and tradition; a foundation. I wanted to give it voice.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
Through vignettes of farm life and travel, the generations of women in the family share their stories, highlighting the struggles between old and new perspectives and spiritual and secular values. Two captivating stories, “Safe Haven” and “The Green Jacket,” explore the challenges faced in navigating the complexities of heritage and identity.
At times both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, All That This House Has To Offer pays tribute to the enduring power of home and family. With humour and insight, this book captures the essence of one Mennonite immigrant experience and the resilience of those who build new lives in foreign lands while still cherishing the traditions of their past.
All That This House Has to Offer
In All That This House Has To Offer, Betty R. Wall elegantly crafts a tapestry of tales that delve into the nuances of family, heritage, and the beauty of simpler times. This collection is more than just stories; it’s a homage to life’s authentic moments, with the house itself emerging as an unforgettable character, rich with history and sentiment.
Wall’s narratives are exquisitely penned, exhibiting thoughtful attention to detail and a deep grasp of the human journey. Her prose dances between poignant evocations and deep emotional connections, inviting readers to delve into an intimate bond with the tales’ characters and their sagas.
The house stands as a poignant centerpiece in these stories, witnessing family generations and the cascading memories they create. Wall’s dexterity in lending the house its distinct voice is commendable, making it a silent yet resonant beacon that bridges the past and present, emphasizing the significance of upholding familial legacies and cherished recollections.
All That This House Has To Offer is not just a book; it’s an experience. It reverberates with warmth and introspection, appealing to readers across generations. Betty R. Wall’s narrative brilliance is evident as she masterfully navigates timeless themes of kinship, legacy, and life’s inherent pleasures. This collection comes with the highest recommendation. Whether seeking a reminiscent journey or a reaffirmation of life’s most cherished values, this book stands as a testament to the enduring power of family ties and the sanctity of memories forged within our homes.
Pages: 128 | ISBN : 1639889876
Be Proud of Your Roots
Even Flowers Know That Water Is Useless Without Roots is a very personal collection of stories and memories for you. How hard was it to put this collection out in the world for people to read?
I enjoyed putting this book together; consequently, it wasn’t hard. However, writing all the fitting pieces in the final manuscript took many years. Patience was essential because not everything included happened during my growing up. Some of the writing is from knowledge and events as latest as this year, i.e., 2023.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
When writing this book, I was reliving and sharing our culture, our food, the diversity in our people, our natural resources and invoking meaning in the mundane. As a descendant of Tanzania, I was keen to avoid cliché and stereotypical perceptions of my motherland and its continent. Ultimately, how I chose to convey my endearment of Tanzania and Africa was deliberately subjective and important.
What do you hope readers take away from the experience of reading your collection?
I hope readers will learn to be proud of their roots and get curious to know more about who they are. Above all, learning about other cultures is important as a collective human race, and my book offers an opportunity to gain exciting and unforgettable knowledge about Tanzania and Africa.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
This year is about very personal projects, and the next book is about a vulnerable subject as a woman.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
Meanwhile, children skipped their favourite kamba game, and others raced on a wooden tricycle to catch a grasshopper. Our neighbour wafted soil scent as she wetted the mud floor before sweeping it. My body adorned in a pair of kanga, the breeze knew well of the nostalgia I carry.
It was not a dream. I was homesick, and only writing would remedy my longings.
Moving away from the land you were born in alters you into a migrant and a wanderer, seeking what is not fully known until experienced and missed.
This collection brings together various memories, experiences, and observations of my homeland, Tanzania. The subjects range from natural resources, love, food, and culture to self-pride. You will learn about the wealth and diversity of Tanzania’s people, culture, and natural resources. This book is an ode to Tanzania and a subtle memoir by its descendant.
EVEN FLOWERS KNOW THAT WATER IS USELESS WITHOUT ROOTS: Poetry, Essays, and Stories
Even Flowers Know That Water Is Useless Without Roots by Gloria D. Gonsalves is a multifaceted literary journey divided into two captivating sections. The first one immerses the reader in a collection of poignant, vibrant, and gripping poems, all of which narrate the author’s life experiences growing up in Tanzania. Gonsalves, who proudly exhibits her Tanzanian roots, vividly captures the essence of her culture, shedding light on notable individuals, personal experiences, educational environments, and distinguished landmarks.
The book’s second section transitions to an eclectic mix of short stories, encapsulating a wide range of themes. From the thrills of travel to the trials and tribulations of growing up, from unique glimpses into her professional life to the delightful inclusion of an exquisite prawn recipe, Gonsalves weaves a diverse narrative. Some of the poems are written in the author’s native language, providing an enriching cultural immersion, with English translations ensuring accessibility for all readers. This dual narrative structure offers the reader a comprehensive overview of life in Tanzania and a personal window into Gonsalves’s world.
My appreciation for African culture was invigorated as I delved into the pages of this book. The richness, uniqueness, and captivating allure of the culture, paired with the warmth and hospitality of its people, resonate throughout the text. Gonsalves’s profound love for her homeland is palpable in each detail she meticulously shares. While the narrative primarily focuses on Tanzanian culture, the universal themes and experiences relayed in the book will resonate with a broad range of readers, particularly those from other African nations.
Gonsalves’s ability to translate her emotions into evocative storytelling is genuinely commendable. Beyond the fluidity of the poetry, the short stories offer delightful interludes that paint vivid portraits of her life journey, spanning her early years, experiences of growth, and adulthood transitions.
Even Flowers Know That Water Is Useless Without Roots is an enriching read that educates about Tanzanian culture and inspires readers to engage with the beauty of poetry. I discovered new aspects of Tanzanian culture and even picked up some phrases in the local language. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone with a love for poetry and an interest in African culture. So, why wait? Let’s embark on a fascinating exploration of Tanzania through Gonsalves’s luminous writing!
Pages: 196 | ASIN : B0C9LSMRFZ
Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature
In her riveting memoir, Places We Left Behind, Jennifer Lang crafts an inspiring narrative about love’s resilience in the face of geographical distances, cultural differences, and familial challenges. Lang explores her journey across three continents, juggling the upbringing of three children and managing the complexities of divergent religious beliefs. This tightly packed memoir resonates with poignant undertones of homesickness and self-sacrifice, revealing the remarkable strength of a woman who ceaselessly prioritizes her family’s welfare over her personal needs.
In Places We Left Behind, Lang chronicles her personal trials and tribulations and delves into the complexities of culture, religion and their impact on interpersonal relationships. The memoir is a testament to the immense power of love and sacrifice in holding a family together.
This concise yet deeply emotive memoir is ripe with hidden layers of meaning, making each page a journey in itself. Though Lang’s story is an extraordinary one, readers who have experienced the uncertainties of a new environment or have strived for harmony within marital relationships will find her tale highly relatable.
While it isn’t necessarily a self-help book, readers stand to gain invaluable insights from Lang’s resilient coping mechanisms and indomitable courage in the face of grave adversities, including her experience navigating terrorist attacks to ensure her family’s safety. Amidst all these challenges, her humility and warmth remain intact, creating a strong bond with her readers.
Lang’s unique narrative style, sprinkled with effortless humor and candid confessions, humanizes her as more than just an author – she feels like a familiar friend sharing life experiences. The book is cleverly structured with timelines, diagrams, and footnotes, creating a creatively educational format. This is particularly beneficial for readers unfamiliar with certain key themes in the book, such as Judaism and yoga.
She skillfully alternates between prose and poetry, adding a captivating rhythm to her storytelling. A particularly engaging feature is a series of reflective questions provided at the end of the book, prompting readers to introspect and connect more deeply with her experiences.
Pages: 95 | ASIN : B0C5Y5YY91
Pink Clouds
Pink Clouds reads like a train of thoughts, jumping between memories in the author’s life. It is secretive and intriguing, forcing readers to think for themselves and fill in the gaps. The author, Janis Kingsley, describes Pink Clouds as unique, memorable moments. She fondly recalls her time in Barcelona and her love for rock music concerts. Then there is the ‘sour lemonade’ when you doubt you’ll ever see the pink clouds again. Janis emotionally depicts struggling with her weight, supporting her son with an addiction, and maintaining a relationship with her father. Some chapters are stories, and others are filled with thoughts about life.
Pink Clouds is emotionally raw and honest and leaves the reader in a reflective state, wondering what could have happened between the lines and beyond the cliffhangers. Janis Kingsley has a great style of writing. She writes in a way that is not flashy or trying to impress, almost as if she is writing for herself rather than the reader. This makes her reflections seem even more authentic as if the reader is delving into her inner thoughts.
Admittedly, I did not understand every chapter and was left with so many unanswered questions, but this made the book all the more interesting. Janis Kingsley writes directly about issues like self-hatred, guilt, and insecurities. I’m sure that every reader can resonate with some part of her experiences or thoughts. She begins by talking about how we never see the dark sides of each other, only the happy exterior, and then proceeds to explore some of her darkest memories. This is the first of many extraordinary contrasts within the book.
I highly recommend Pink Clouds to anyone who enjoys short stories and food for thought. The book will leave you reflecting on life and the mental battles that we all face, whether you’re a teenager recovering from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic or a wife trapped in a dead-end marriage. Pink Clouds is a book that everyone can take something away from. Not only can we learn from sharing our experiences, but it is also highly comforting to know that we are not alone. This is a book that will stick in your mind long after finishing the book, if not luring you back in to reread and rethink. I will certainly be looking for more of Janis Kingsley’s writing.
Pages: 16 | ASIN : B0BG3HYC6H
Different Essays: (They’re Certainly Different)
What will intrigue readers from the start of Charles Pinwill’s book is the title; it is fascinating and straightforward. Different Essays: (They’re Certainly Different) may have a simple title, but the stories in the book are more than captivating. Charles Pinwill is an exciting author. He is engaging, and his way of thinking is appealing. The author also displays a charismatic and charming side throughout the book. Moving from one chapter to the next gets interesting with every new story as the author knows how to entertain his readers.
Apart from the exciting, refreshing, and entertaining texts, readers will find a lot of quotable material in Charles Pinwill’s enthralling book. One notable quote is, ‘We all appear to be trained to vote for one set of politicians because we fear the others more.’ With the current state of politics, there is a lot of truth in this statement. The chapter on ‘Slavery, Work, and Service: The Three Ages of Man’ is especially illuminating. There are solid points raised in the text and one cannot help but think of the status quo.
This book is eye-opening and enlightening. Charles Pinwill is an excellent author and one is able to easily follow his thoughts. His style is objective and skilled at ensuring that the reader remains engrossed in the main topic even when he introduces a new subject. Readers will find his writing is encouraging as well. The author uses historical references when starting to discuss a specific matter. He also uses data from proven statistics to support his arguments. Every essay or chapter is expressly written, with the author focusing on critical topics and giving great points. The writing is generally exceptional. By the end of this revealing novel, readers will have learned about capitalism, free markets, world politics, the art of policymaking, democracy, world unity and many other crucial subjects. The author has done extensive research and compiled the essays, which despite being different, are linked thoughtfully. As a reader, you will become enlightened on how the Global North operates. Furthermore, you will discover the countries’ role in shaping the world.
Different Essays: (They’re Certainly Different) is a must-read for those interested in historical and political pieces. This thought-provoking book will appeal to lovers of history and readers who want to change their communities through literature.
Pages: 544 | ASIN : B093KCZD4W
LITERARY TITAN 