shonagh_catherine's reviews
270 reviews

Close to Home by Michael Magee

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challenging dark emotional reflective fast-paced

3.0

Devotion by Patti Smith

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emotional reflective fast-paced

4.25

Ways of Seeing by John Berger

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5.0

John Berger's "Ways of Seeing" is an extraordinary work that revolutionizes the way we perceive and understand art. Berger's incisive analysis and thought-provoking insights break down the conventional approaches to art criticism, making it accessible and engaging for readers of all backgrounds. His exploration of how we see and interpret visual imagery challenges us to rethink our assumptions and broadens our perspective on art and culture.

The book's innovative structure, combining essays with provocative images, encourages active engagement and reflection. Berger's eloquence and clarity make complex ideas understandable without oversimplifying them. "Ways of Seeing" is not just a book about art; it's a profound commentary on society, power, and perception.

This seminal work remains relevant and influential, offering fresh insights with each read. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the ways we interact with the visual world, "Ways of Seeing" is an essential and enlightening read. Highly recommended.
Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel García Márquez

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challenging dark emotional reflective tense medium-paced

4.0

Little Girl Lost by Brian McGilloway

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challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

4.0

Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors

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challenging dark emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

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challenging dark emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix

4.0

Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

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challenging dark emotional mysterious tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix

3.25

Bright Young Women" by Jessica Knoll is an intriguing read that offers a fresh, feminist perspective on the true crime genre by focusing on the victims rather than the perpetrator. However, the novel's complex structure, with its multiple timelines and perspectives, can make the story feel disjointed without adding to the narrative. While Knoll's writing is evocative and the themes are compelling, the pacing suffers at times due to repetitive suspense elements. This book is a thought-provoking take on toxic masculinity and victim empowerment, but it fails to live up to its full potential with laboured storytelling.