Book Review (p.8)

This article shares my personal review of best books related to the society. I believe "Papillon" by Henri Charrierre makes a thrilling novel narrating a unique adventure of the protagonists. This novel described severe conditions and several emotional turmoils which the protagonists underwent. The story line was relatively well-built with clever word uses and witty metaphors. A notable point about "Papillon" is how it reflected a part of the society under French colony with crime, violence, as well as injustice. Thereby, the novel successfully portrayed the complicated struggle which these protagonists underwent to survive in these severe contexts.

In "Sans Famille", Hector Malot described the French society in the 19th century through the life and adventure of Remi. Unfortunately, Remi underwent several hardships and emotional turbulence to survive in France. In this novel, I could appreciate a well-built story line and well-depicted characters, as well as the meanings that Hector Malot aimed to deliver. I felt moved by the life of the protagonist Remi during his severe battle for survival. In terms of dialogues and conversations among the protagonists, they are well-written and clever.?

Guy de Maupassant composed “The Complete Short Stories of Guy de Maupassant” in a clever manner. He reflected the contemporary society, where the protagonists experienced their own struggles either emotionally or socially. I think Guy de Maupassant is notable for the detailed depiction of either natural settings, or the protagonists' battles, through the use of clever metaphors. Overall, I felt impressed at these short stories, specifically, how moving some stories showcased, as well as the way they reflected the society and the social classes.

Besides, Henri Gourdon compiled this comprehensive guide “An Nam Art” which depicts major art history and trends within the South East Asia region. The readers, even the novice ones, can find major movements and insightful analysis relating to the principal art trends in this region. Also, this book provided relevant historical settings and showcased relatively clever expressions. I believe it makes a necessary and comprehensive book in terms of regional art history.

On a side note, "American History to 1877" by Robert Geise seemed comprehensive since it covered the history and major events in the America in the late 19th century. This book was notable to me for how it covered the American history. The writing style was quite approachable. I enjoyed how Robert Geise expressed his ideas and his manners. Generally, this seemed like a worthwhile book related to the American history in the 19th century.

“10-Minute Mindfulness: 81 Habits for Living in the Present Moment” by S.J. Scott: This book was quite interesting to me how it described the benefits from mindfulness as well as living in the moment for any civil member. I had a good time with this book by S.J.Scott regarding main habits to achieve spiritual fulfillment as well as maintaining well-being. Overall, this book left positive impression on my memory while pursuing work-life balance as well as life satisfaction.?

In my opinion, Charles Van Doren created an interesting and detailed work through this book "Joy of Reading: A Passionate Guide to the World’s Best Authors and Their Works". I can find a number of great tips related to effective reading skills through this book. Besides, engaging analysis could be found. It also recommended some valuable books worth exploring. In general, this is a worthwhile book.?

Undeniably, Lu Xun makes a prominent figure in Chinese literature. I think “The Real Story of Ah-Q and Other Tales of China: The Complete Fiction of Lu Xun” reflected quite well Chinese society and its turbulence. He described the struggle of the civilians in this East Asian country, while it faced several economic and social challenges. He built his characters quite well, with detailed description of their behaviors. Overall, Lu Xun successfully described the reality of Chinese society and its social classes in the early 20th century, with a plenty of contradictions.