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BACKGROUND

I love to read. I love to share. I would love to share my passion for reading with all of you.

HOW THIS BOOK CLUB WORKS

It's a very simple concept. I have a book and I want to share it with you. Just follow these simple steps.

• Browse through my collection of books. You may refer to the list of authors and genres or use the "Find that book" button provided.
  

• Choose one you like. I have provided a plot summary and review for each book to help you.

• Leave a comment under that particular post ("I want to borrow this book" or something similar).

• Contact me at thehidayahstory@yahoo.com and leave your name and mailing address.

• I will mail the book to you and you can read it.

THE INTERESTING BIT

In order to promote reading to others too please do these simple steps.

• Tell all your book loving friends.

• You may keep the book for 2 weeks (upon recieving it- so notify me when it arrives safely).

• After that, please mail it to the next person requesting the book (contact me to get their address). If nobody else has requested the book, simply mail it back to me.

Hmm.. I wonder if this crazy idea will actually work...


||Sticky Post|| *scroll down to see the books

The Information Officer by Mark Mills

Basic Plot

It is 1942 in Malta and people are dying. Most die due to air raids, casualties of war but some die a more sinister death. Local prostitutes were disappearing and turning up dead seemingly due to accidents or other war related injuries. But Max knew things were not as they seemed. In pursuing a killer, what he found instead was a cold, emotionless psychopath who's only taste of emotion was the fear and pain he inflicted on his victims.

What I thought of the book

I bought this book as an impulse buy. One of the books that I would buy without knowing the author but because something in the blurb caught my eye. In this case, it was the parallel to the story of Jack the Ripper.

I was however, disappointed in this book, mostly due to its slow pace. It had every chance of being a good book, a good plot, a sinister villain, a charming hero but there was so much of the war to wade through that the story got lost under the rubble. Instead of serving as an interesting backdrop to the story, the war actually became a hindrance to the overall plot, preventing me from making any connections with the characters or even fully immersing myself in the book. I speed read and skipped many pages simply to sustain my interest.

Rating: 3/5

Reclaim your Heart by Yasmin Mogahed

This book is a compilation of Yasmin Mogahed's thoughts and insights on her journey towards reclaiming her heart. I have always shied away from non-fiction, especially self-help/motivational books. Finding most of the supposed "pearls of wisdom" between the pages too simplistic and at times unrealistic, I developed a wary distaste for successful "know-it-all" strangers that were determined to make me happier, richer or more motivated. This book, however, was different. I had been following Yasmin's Facebook and Twitter, and her honest, simple reflections on life often struck a chord with me. So I decided to give this book a chance. And Alhamdulillah, I am glad I did. She manages to inspire, soothe and evoke strong emotions in one fell swoop. Her musings are simple and very relatable. Her problems were my problems, her questions were my questions too. Above all this, the answers that she offered were not her own. The answers, were what we have already been told in the Quran and hadith. What Yasmin does best is give words to our internal worries, conflicts, fears, even the ones we never knew we had and reminds us of what Allah has already prescribed the solution for us. Like a friendly traffic policewoman redirecting the congestion of thoughts and unease that we are experiencing, she waves us on our way in the right direction, to reach our final goal. To be closer to our Creator.

A quote I liked from the book 

(Usually I would pick one line that I liked. In this book it is almost impossible to choose but I will try)

Once in a while, people enter your life that you love- not for what they give you- but for what they are.

Rating: 4.5/5

The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold

Basic plot

Killing her mother was easy, what happened after that was harder. Helen's love-hate relationship with her mother Clair had finally reached this moment, a towel pressed over her mother's nose and mouth. How did it come to that? In the moments after the fact, Helen struggles to answer that very question.

What I thought of the book

Firstly, with an opening sentence like " When all is said and done, killing my mother came easily.", I had great expectations of the book. Coupled with the fact that I had quite enjoyed the other book The Lovely Bones. However, beyond that opening sentence, I was sorely disappointed. As the book struggled to abstractly paint a picture of how someone could be so permanently damaged by hating and loving the person that brought her into this world, I found myself unable to identify with the main character or any of the characters in the book. Although the mother's condition (she had agoraphobia and dementia) was explained well and in detail, the mental suffering she must have endured did not translate well across the pages. Helen's difficult childhood, growing up with a sick mother and a weak father also felt like a well construed farce, instead of the reality that left her scarred enough to commit murder. Her actions after the deed, though obviously intended to show her fragile state of mind and confusion also felt very unnatural and forced. In the end, it felt as if this was a story, that had every ingredient and opportunity to shock, enthrall and evoke powerful emotions on the true meaning of the sacred bond between mother and daughter and yet somehow fell very short of the mark.

A quote I liked from the book

All of them are gone except for me; and for me nothing is gone.

Rating: 2.5/5

Pecah by Khairulnizam Bakeri

Basic plot

A bank robbery gone wrong? Or is it? When a seemingly professional bank heist ends with one of the robbers getting shot, it is up to the group's mastermind to ensure that everything goes to plan. A battle of wits between the dedicated Inspector Paul and a most unlikely ringleader ensues. Everyone has a motive but some have more than most when revenge is at stake.

My thoughts

Firstly, this is the SECOND Malay book I've read in my whole adult life. I would not classify myself as a book snob, just that circumstances of my childhood have sadly resulted in a situation where although I am fluent in my mother tongue, I am unable to appreciate the subtle nuances of the language (a situation I am desperate to rectify). For me reading in Malay is an uphill task of swimming through words that refuse to form images in my head. They remain stubbornly, as words on paper. 

A very dear friend suggested I watch the movie adaptation of this book because he claimed that the book was amazing. After watching the movie, I was puzzled because, I didn't enjoy it. My friend, who was severely disappointed in the movie too, was adamant that the book was a lot better and lent it to me in order to prove his point. I have to agree with him. The movie did not do the book justice.

I have to confess, it took a bit of effort on my part to persevere an finish this book but it was not at all as hard as I imagined. Firstly, the plot is gripping and well-stuctured with layers and depth. Things are never as straightforward as the reader initially thinks. The flashbacks were done well, adding to the story, explaining without interrupting the flow of the storyline. The style of writing was laid-back, easy to understand (though there were so many words I had never heard of before), informal without descending to bad grammar. It was most surprising to see how action scenes and even "bedroom" scenes were so well described giving pace and subtlety without being vulgar or crude. The star of the book was the dialogue, it was so natural. People in this book actually talked like normal people! A quality very much lacking in the few Malay dramas or movies that I have seen. The author also incorporated familiar everyday references and pop culture, making the story relatable and current. So, all in all, it was a very good read. If all Malay books are like this, I cannot wait to read the next one.

A quote I liked from the book

Aku sangka kau sudah puas musnahkan hidupku. Nyata aku silap.

Rating: 4/5

The Calligrapher's Daughter by Eugenia Kim

Basic plot

Born as a girl with no name, Najin Han soon found that being a woman with a brain in twentieth century Korea was taxing. Always a disappointment to her esteemed calligrapher father, she found comfort in her mother's unconditional love and her own unbreakable spirit and hunger for knowledge. As times grew hard and dangerous with the advent of Japanese occupation, Najin uses all her wits and bravery to survive. Even when faced with hardship upon hardship, obstacles, bureaucracy and the unforgiving oppression from their hateful new masters, somehow Najin must hold on.

What I like about the book

I went through my Korean drama phase a couple of years ago, especially enjoying the period dramas. I found the culture and customs refined and quaint albeit complex at times. This book describes the yangbans (aristocrats) of the period in vivid brush strokes akin to the beautiful calligraphy of Najin's father. Life at royal court was also included. The central character was very interesting, a girl then woman who struggled to balance her proper upbringing and duty to family with her impulsiveness and frees spirit.

As with most books of this genre, I found the pace somewhat slow. Nothing actually happened and even if they did, they took a painstaking amount of time to unravel.

A quote I liked from the book

There is no blame, and so no need for forgiveness

Rate: 4/5

Virgin Earth by Philippa Gregory

Basic Plot

John Tradescant the Younger found himself in Virginia. Son of the King's gardener, he was there by order of the Queen to find new and unique plants to bring back to the English palace gardens. Instead he found himself in an unforgiving land, where people were too busy surviving to appreciate anything of beauty let alone cultivate it. John soon finds that his journey and his life both in the new world and old fraught with difficulties, obstacles, war and loss. Torn between his loves, his principles and his service to the King, John discovers that people are more difficult to tend to compared to his beautiful blossoms and lush trees.

What I liked and disliked about this book

This sequel to Earthly Joys was as good as, if not better than the original. The language was fluid and painted a vivid picture of both the unforgiving new lands of Virginia and the hard English countryside in turmoil. This story managed to capture the entitlement felt by the early white settlers in their dealing with the land and also the natives who simply regarded as savages and treated like animals. Switching from Virginia to England every few chapters also made the book very interesting as the reader not only follows John's exploits but also that of the family he left behind. It also explores the concept of love and loyalty, and how circumstances can make the most principled of men to be torn with indecision. My only grouse is that in getting to the ending, which I thoroughly did not agree with, the book seemed to drag a little. However, this was probably due to the fact that the author wanted to stay true to the timeline of events that occurred in England at the time. It was also very interesting to learn the history of England during the reign of Charles I. 

A quote I liked from the book

You would have to decide, without advice from me. I do not want a man with half a heart.

Rating: 4/5

Please don't make me go by John Fenton

Basic plot

John Fenton's life is hard. Mostly because his father uses him and his mother as punching bags. Pushed to his limits he finally stood up to his old man, only to find himself torn away from his home and sent to a place where all young delinquents find themselves, an 'approved school'. Even the horrors of his life at home paled in comparison to what St Vincent had to offer. John Fenton endured unspeakable situations and found that surviving was an almost impossible task.

What I liked and disliked about this book

The language used in this book is very simple, and straightforward. Everything was told almost in a matter of fact way that made each unbelievably atrocious event that he suffered seemed even more horrifying. Knowing that the story is a true one left chills down my spine. It also shows how easily some kids can slip through the cracks and how easily bad things can happen. The main character comes off as so very human, with his own faults and merits, surrounded by people or more aptly, monsters, in authority. Beware of the strong language, swear words are strewn over each page. The ending was slightly too abrupt but since the main focus was his journey, the author probably did not put much emphasis on the destination. 

A quote I liked from the book

"I don't get bullied. I fight back."

Rating: 4/5

Nefertiti by Nick Drake

Basic plot

Rahotep, a young Medjay detective from Thebes is summoned to the new capital Akhetaten. In essence, it was a death sentence for if he failed to complete his assignment, he and his beautiful family would be killed. The Great Changes have plunged the whole of Egypt in turmoil as the old Gods were banished to make way for the Sun God. At the helm of this new religion was the most famous and beautiful woman of the ancient world, Nefertiti, and her husband Akhenaten. However, Nefertiti vanishes just days before the biggest celebration of the new capital is about to take place. Rahotep has only ten days to find her or be sent on a one way trip to the Otherworld.

My full review here.

Rating: 4/5

Bossypants by Tina Fey (Audiobook)

I haven't actually picked up a book in over 2 months. For me, that is a very long time. It has been really hectic lately, and trying to squeeze in some recreational reading has been impossible. After prompting from both a close friend and my boss, I decided that I would finally give in and try listening to an audiobook.

I'm not exactly sure what I have against audiobooks but I guess it's mostly because growing up, I had always thought audiobooks were for children, really old people, the blind or illiterate. I realize now that this was a misconception. Audiobooks were in fact invented for people like me, people who love to read but simply do not have the luxury of "switching off" the rest of the world and doing so.

Deciding what my first audiobook would be was fairly easy. My friend recommended Bossypants and I thought it would probably be as good a choice as any. First of all, there are a few things I have to state. I do not watch 30 Rock. I know it's a breakout comedy that has a truckload of Emmys, and I have seen a few episodes. I find the humour too coarse and myself unsuited to watch it. Secondly, although I know who Tina Fey is I have not seen the Sarah Palin SNL sketch or watched her movie with that guy from The Office. So although, I knew who the author was vaguely, there really was no reason for me to listen to this book other than there was no other book in particular that I wanted to listen to instead.

I listened to this book early in the morning during my quietest but busiest time (5 am- 6 am) while I hung the laundry out to dry, ironed clothes and folded laundry. After 6am my house becomes a chaotic tornado of trying to get three kids ready before school. 

The experience was quite enjoyable. It was multi-tasking without feeling like an octopus. It was also nice that my quiet time was less quiet. 

The book itself was good. It was a biography of an interesting woman who was also funny. Of course, I did not agree with many of her opinions or views but her comic way of telling her own story was very enjoyable. Perhaps her greatest asset was her ability to make fun of herself. 

In the end I am glad that I tried this out despite my reservations. The only probable downside is, now the tiny voice in my head sounds exactly like Tina Fey!

Rating: 4/5

Man and Boy by Tony Parsons

 

 

The basic plot

Harry Silver is a lucky man, the problem is, he doesn't know it. Or appreciate it. One foolish night and his perfect life is down the drain. Only then does he begin to realize what is truly important in life.

Rating: 4/5

My full review here.

Enduring Love by Ian Mcewan

Basic plot

A romantic picnic turns into a great tragedy within the blink of an eye and that was just the beginning. Little did Joe know that a chance encounter with a random event could trigger something deeper, darker and beyond his understanding. When things start spinning out of control, nobody believes him because he barely believes it himself.

Rating: 3.5

My full review here.

The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz

Basic plot

Amy Redwing rescues dogs and she is never conventional in her methods. In her passion to help 'man's best friend' she often finds herself in precarious situations. Along for the ride is her boyfriend, more for moral support than a sidekick. While rescuing these dogs they realize that both of them are also running from a dark past, from which they can only rescue each other.

Rating: 3.5/5

My full review here.

The Marriage Bureau for Rich People by Farahad Zama

Basic plot

Mr Ali did not like being retired. It was boring. So he set up a marriage bureau. What better way to find the perfect match for people than to consult Ali's Marriage Bureau for Rich People. Especially since everyone has so many specific requirements. Yes, consulting Mr Ali was a sure way of finding the perfect spouse, even when you're not looking for one.

Rating: 4/5

My full review here. 

This book was lent to me by Mynie.

The Bonesetter's Daughter by Amy Tan

 

 

Basic plot

Ruth Young does not get on well with her elderly mother LuLing. Growing up, sometimes she was secretly ashamed of her old-fashioned mother who made her feel different from other kids. Even as an adult, they constantly disagree about the simplest of things. When her mother starts ailing and forgetting things, the relationship becomes more strained. LuLing tries hard to communicate with her daughter by telling Ruth about her own story and how she came to America. She feels that through this story, filled with sadness and tragedy, can Ruth finally understand who she really is. In a race against time and the disease that will claim her memories forever, unfolds a story of family, sacrifice and love.

 

Rating: 3/5

 

This book was a gift from my friend Dr Yati.

 

My full review here.

Thud! by Terry Prachett

 

 

Basic Plot

Commander Vimes has his hands full running the city watch especially since a vampire has decided to join. His band of trolls, dwarfs, humans and werewolves are hard enough to handle without adding a vampire into the mix. Everyone is on edge and with the Koom Valley battle looming ahead, the tension in the air is almost palpable. When a dwarf leader is murdered, all suspicions point to the culprit being one of their sworn enemies, a troll. However, it is not an open and shut case. Commander Vimes and his motley crew of officers must work together regardless of shape or form to solve not only one murder but perhaps discover the centuries old secret of Koom Valley.

 

Rating: 4.5/5

My full review here.

I love you, Beth Cooper by Larry Doyle

Basic plot

Dennis Cooverman, valedictorian  and captain of the debate team of Buffalo Grove High School stood up in front of all his classmates and their relatives to give his graduation speech. He said "I love you, Beth Cooper." The only problem is, Beth Cooper has no idea who he is. proclaiming his undying love for the most popular girl in school was not even the weirdest thing to happen to Dennis that day, but safe to say, things went spiraling out of control from that moment on. Proof that even the most well thought out of plans usually turn out better when you say them in your head instead of into a microphone.

Rating: 2.5/5

The full review here.

The Mission Song by John Le Carre

 

 

Basic plot 

Bruno Salvador is a zebra. Born from an errant white missionary and a black tribe chieftain's daughter, his very existence is miraculous. Working in London as a world-class interpreter with a flair for the numerous African languages and married to a high-born, successful journalist, he has almost shed his stripes. An unexpected call for an assignment for the British government soon finds him re-considering his life and loyalties. Thrown into the world of espionage, mystery, adultery and clandestine operations, he soon finds out whether zebras have the stripes to save Africa.

 

Rating: 3.5/5

 

My full review here.

Lost Girls by Robert Doherty

 

 

Basic plot

Somebody messed up. Seriously. When a sniper team deep in the jungles of Colombia are left for dead while serving their country, nobody knows what really happened.

When a string of unrelated brutal murders and kidnappings occur, it seems that the story did not end in Colombia after all. What is worse than a psychopath? More than one. Who also happened to be military trained assassins with a thirst for revenge.

The only people who can stop them? An equally elite group of people who work for the Cellar. A division of the government that supercedes the other alphabet soup of CIA, FBI, NSA. They race against time to save innocent lives against a very well prepared enemy.

 

Rating: 4/5 

My full review here.

Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt

 

 

Basic plot

A story of a boy born in America but spent his childhood in extreme poverty in bleak, desolate Ireland with his poor mother, always drunk father and ever growing and depleting little siblings. During a time when a slice of bread was considered a luxury, baby brothers drank water with sugar and the whole lane traipses through your kitchen to dump their excrement in the one common toilet. Frank McCourt's daily life is merely a battle to survive, the dreaded consumption, thrashings from relatives who are angry when his family asks for scraps of food and a father with the Irish curse of drinking what little money he manages to earn. 

Rating: 4.5/5

My full review here.