The Big Feminist BUT: Comics about Women, Men, and the IFs, ANDs & BUTs of Feminism by Shannon O'Leary
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My main complaint lies in the fact that these comics were drawn only in black and white. I don't enjoy comics half as much when color has been abandoned. I remember three women: MariNaomi, Kristina Collantes, and Angie Wang, who seem to be the only Asians represented.

I did laugh at Beth Lisick's strip, a pleasant introduction to her work. I would have been doubly disappointed if Vanessa Davis and Gabrielle Bell had not been included. I am surprised at the fact so many older voices were not included. Could you imagine Mimi Pond and Lynda Barry sharing their perspectives on feminism? The fact that those two women lived during the second wave of feminism and have lived to see the third and fourth incarnations would have provided a richness. It would've been glorious.


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Ordinary Girls by Jaquira Díaz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so grateful that Jaquira Diaz survived to tell her life story. So lethal and so engaging. The catharsis she undoubtedly experienced while writing this memoir could heal so many women who mute their voices or forcibly muted. Our sexuality... our expression may not be visible but the anger that erupts when we don't allow ourselves to release it. Jaquira loved women from childhood and instigated violence due to the homophobia. Her behavior resembled a caged animal, unsatisfied with its surroundings. Her mother's insanity added to her fear that she would succumb to mental deterioration. Jaquira suffers from insomnia and depression.

I related to her anger and love for the written word. Also, her lack of scholastic ambition. I want loyal, lifelong friends. That's a keen difference. Jaquira had sidekicks with whom to commit wild deeds. Trouble shared develops a bond.


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Hollywood's Eve: Eve Babitz and the Secret History of L.A. by Lili Anolik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn't aware of Eve Babitz until I learned of this book. Another reviewer coined this book a work of "fan nonfiction." I agree. Anolik's devotion magnifies Eve. There will certainly be masses of women who relish Eve because of her defiant life and unbridled approach to love and sex. I love the ending of this book. It features photos of Eve from her wizened years, her prime, and her nubile phase. (Annie Leibovitz's photo proves alluring,fresh, and sensual.) I intend to read Eve's works because of this book.


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The Book That Changed My Life: 71 Remarkable Writers Celebrate the Books That Matter Most to Them by Roxanne J. Coady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Veteran luminaries voiced the literature that proved pivotal for them. It felt poignant when Senator John McCain provided his offering for the book that influenced him: For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway. A tale of war and great love, Senator McCain undoubtedly saw Robert Jordan as a man to emulate, even in adulthood. I thought it was sweet that Frank McCourt appeared both as a contributor and as an inspiration for Lisa Scottoline.

Maybe I am revealing too much. Carry on!


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More quotes on reading

Books serve to show a man that those original thoughts of his aren't very new after all. ~Abraham Lincoln

The smallest bookstore still contains more ideas of worth than have been presented in the entire history of television. ~Andrew Ross

I've never known any trouble that an hour's reading didn't assuage. ~Charles de Secondat, Baron de la Brède et de Montesquieu, Pensées Diverses

To sit alone in the lamplight with a book spread out before you, and hold intimate converse with men of unseen generations — such is a pleasure beyond compare. ~Kenko Yoshida

Sometimes, looking at the many books I have at home, I feel I shall die before I come to the end of them, yet I cannot resist the temptation of buying new books. Whenever I walk into a bookstore and find a book on one of my hobbies... I say to myself, "What a pity I can't buy that book, for I already have a copy at home." ~Jorge Luis Borges (1899–1986)

Childfree and Loving It! by Nicki Defago
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If the book chooses the person, then bless this book! I willfully don't have children because 1) I cannot afford them at this stage of my life and 2) I am working on school. I am an only child because my mother didn't want to endure the physical agony of childbirth again. Therefore, my only options were to complain about my status or enjoy it. I selected the latter. In my adulthood, many of my cousins have become mothers and I don't know how they can say they enjoy life with so many children. None of them have become wealthy. (I say this because if they had money, we would all know it. No humility.) Why struggle with growing children?

I am keeping this for my Sociology courses.


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The Goodness of Ordinary People: True Stories from Real Americans by Faith Middleton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fascinating display of patriotism. I wasn't aware of Faith Middleton or her radio program until reading this book which had lingered in my bookcase for more than three years. Middleton hosts a public radio show in Connecticut, which pulls the beauty from humanity. A serene empath, she manifests compassion for the caller and the audience. It's an assurance that her listeners adore. My aunt would love to hear this lady. But we live on the West Coast. Maybe in the next life.


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Rabbit: The Autobiography of Ms. Pat by Patricia Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So grateful that this woman climbed from dismalness to prosperity. I couldn't believe what a trifling mother she had. Ms. Pat knows she's had guardian angels and I believe her. I refuse to spoil the story but for those who feel their life is in a state of impossible circumstances, you need to read this book.


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Day #2 of 20-Day Water Challenge

So far, I have drunk 66 ounces of water today. Hopefully, I can exceed 100 ounces. On Instagram, there's a description of the water challenge: 20 days of drinking a minimum of 64 ounces of water to the exclusion of other drinks. Try to eat as healthily as possible. 

I am capable of 20 days with only water.

Daytripper by Fábio Moon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The drawing style seems surreal. Yet, the stories feel truthful. I mourned and celebrated the tales. Is that how life is? This book arrived in my life at a sound time. The fact that Fabio and Gabriel come from Sao Paulo entices me evermore.


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Life Notes: Personal Writings by Contemporary Black Women by Patricia Bell-Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's not apt to describe this book as draining but the emotional depth can render it laborious. I usually finish books in less than a week. But this one, I purposefully didn't rush through it. I often learn myself through the offerings of others. That's what took so long. It is not wise to rush knowledge of self.

I encourage black women who seek to learn of themselves to read this book.


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The Romance of Libraries by Madeleine Lefebvre
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An optimistic and reassuring book that love and romance avail themselves to all with open minds and hearts. I feel blessed to have read this collection. The entries proved short and sweet without preachiness. I intend to buy this in the near future. It astounds me how the best literature often lives unpraised.


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The Scorpion's Sweet Venom by Bruna Surfistinha
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I learned of Bruna Surfistinha from an Essence article to which she contributed comments. Some people would consider this book smut but a juicy read doesn't disappoint me. I plan to get another copy if I allow my friend to have it. I love abundant sex lives! This book won't depress you if you're the same way.


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This Day: Diaries From American Women by Joni B. Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I bought this from thriftbooks.com a few weeks ago. On top of that, I checked out more than ten books from the public library. The intrigue from the library books usurped much of my interest in this one. It's not dissatisfying. Aisha Tyler's contribution pleased me. I am glad she is not smitten by celebrity but still enjoys her profession. Many of the women had similar days: kids, coffee, groceries, dinner, ennui.

No rest for women!


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Do I Dare Disturb the Universe?: From the Projects to Prep School by Charlise Lyles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The ending disappointed me. I wanted to learn how Charlise adapted to prep school. I am a black woman who attended a white high school and I'd hoped to more deeply identify with her journey. I was saddened to see that her father influenced her to be an agnostic. How could one man have so much power for doing so little? I plan to give this book to my friend who embraces ethnic cultures.


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Reading is my window : books and the art of reading in women's prisons by Megan Sweeney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book builds much on her previous work, The Story Within Us . (Several of the women interviewed in that work were featured in this one.)The women, considering their circumstances, articulated their opinions soundly. The discussion and interview process edified Sweeney and the prisoners:"... I was buoyed by the realization that it meant a great deal, to some women, to be greeted by a friendly face who cared about them and considered their thoughts and stories important enough to record (Sweeney 249)." I think many individuals ought to read this book to gain knowledge and empathy for those incarcerated. 


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Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos by Lucy Knisley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What would've been a dull Saturday morphed into an elated day reading this delight. I laughed at Lucy's candor about her discomfort during the pregnancy. (Those drawings with greenface and the facial expressions from her and John after witnessing their colicky niece--something to think about, folks!) I have mixed feelings about motherhood. I am at zero risk for it to happen in this stage of my life but I don't relish repeated agony as many women endure. But that's the key word--endure. Plus, Lucy chose a wonderful, supportive man for a husband and that provides much hope. I think Lucy and John would still have a loving union even if they had remained child-free. But it's heartening to know the love deepened once their son entered the world.

That's something to aspire to.


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Book Girl: A Journey Through the Treasures and Transforming Power of a Reading Life by Sarah    Clarkson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book centers on Christian spirituality. It warms me to see sound, healthy subjects discussed and presented. I am a woman who needs light and love to feel healthy and full. This book illuminates.


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The Story Within Us: Women Prisoners Reflect on Reading by Megan Sweeney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I did not anticipate loving this book so much. Obviously, it's sad because they're locked up but the women express themselves with such candor. These women would be jewels in society. So much wisdom and intelligence. They're also plentiful in resources and patience. I am grateful that no one laid blame on others for the actions but they did pinpoint that people triggered certain responses.

A must read for feminists or anyone with empathy.


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Frida  Diego: Art, Love, Life by Catherine Reef
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This would be a sweet introduction to the lives and art of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo for young people. It displays their frailties and strengths without judgment. I am an admirer of Frida so there was nothing here I had not known before.

Cheers!


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I'd Rather Be Reading: The Delights and Dilemmas of the Reading Life by Anne Bogel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Anne Bogel has written a charming book with substance. In one chapter, she describes how reading choices informs the woman she is. In her childhood, the decision of what to read was elected for her and then in adulthood, she moved to governing her reading habits. This differs from my experience. Only when I was a toddler did my elders choose books for me. Once I learned to read, I was free to read what intrigued me, provided it wasn't gruesome or explicit. She admits she rereads books. Once I turned 30, I ceased this habit. So many books, so little time. I record my opinions of a book along with the dates read. But I've lost the interest to reread books. 

This book fits springtime.


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Cécile: Gates of Gold by Mary Casanova
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I've been occupied with school so this book took longer than it should have. An engaging reimagining of Louis XV's early childhood. I was relieved at the ending. It gave Cecile the opportunity to grow beyond the confines of court life for which she was not suited.


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Modern Manners by Dorothea Johnson and Liv Tyler

Modern Manners: A Kind Guide to Putting Others and Yourself at Ease by Dorothea Johnson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars




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Dear America by Jose Antonio Vargas

Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen by Jose Antonio Vargas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My teacher arranged for us to read this book. It stretched my empathy. I feel that the first half of the book has greater clarity. Once he gets in the Obama presidency, his rationale gets murkier. I am aware that he got his first driver's license from Oregon. I was always told when there's a will, there's a way. Absolutely no recourse to getting citizenship? I don't understand how undocumented people pay taxes but don't have citizenship. That makes no sense to me. I think if you pay taxes and are obeying the law, you ought to be granted citizenship. I wouldn't desire to exist in the purgatory that Jose Antonio Vargas dwells or anyone else. He's being cheated of a enriched life.


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American Like Me: Reflections on Life Between Cultures edited by America Ferrera

American Like Me: Reflections on Life Between Cultures by America Ferrera
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn't anticipate enjoying this tome so much. I bought it for school as a required text. Usually, required texts make me frown and resent the money spent. This book can be treasured in any circumstance. Many of these people aren't A-listers but notable nonetheless. I enjoyed Uzo Aduba's essay the most. I relished her insights into Nigerian culture and how it contrasts with her perception of New England. I am half Nigerian and all I know about Nigeria comes from book knowledge. I also appreciated Anjelah Johnson-Reyes' piece about wanting to be more chola. Why do privileged people feel they need to be more rugged? Thankfully, every contributor has reached a place of satisfaction with his or her self.

A blessing to read!


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Diary of a Sex Fiend: Girl with a One Track Mind by Abby Lee

Diary of a Sex Fiend: Girl with a One Track Mind by Abby Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I admire Abby's candor. It seems exciting to have a range of partners with whom you have electrifying sex. (I need to reverse my lifestyle.) During my experience reading this book, I decided to research the author. The British media blasted her anonymity and she decided to move to New York City to escape the furor. I don't know for certain if she still lives in the Big Apple. At the end of the book, she expresses the desire to have sex doggie-style with her husband "when our kids are asleep (Lee 310)."

I hope she's found delight.


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Women Who Love Books Too Much: Bibliophiles, Bluestockings, & Prolific Pens from the Algonquin Hotel to the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Brenda Knight

Women Who Love Books Too Much: Bibliophiles, Bluestockings & Prolific Pens from the Algonquin Hotel to the YA-YA Sisterhood by Brenda Knight
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn't anticipate that this book would be a collection of biographical sketches. Nonetheless, I count it as joyous blessing. I learned more of women from antiquity and the recent centuries. I hadn't learned of Enheduanna, Aphra Behn, Kathleen Raine, Grazia Deledda, Lucy Terry Prince,Barbara Tuchman, Jane Welsh Carlyle, and Meret Oppenheim. I had seen the name Enheduanna in a textbook on Mesopotamia during a history course.

This book presents legendary women in an accessible fashion. Many times, legends have their humanity snatched from them on the printed page. A reader empathizes with these women.


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Bedsit Disco Queen by Tracey Thorn

Bedsit Disco Queen: How I Grew Up and Tried to Be a Pop Star by Tracey Thorn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I noticed, at the end, that Tracey Thorn doesn't include details of her wedding day nor does she share the names of her twin daughters. Yet, we learn her son's name is Blake. Her twins were the firstborn, did they ask to remain anonymous? This will be the first literary experience of mine with Tracey Thorn but it won't remain the only. This book gave insights into a royally secular-minded individual. I relished it.


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wise words from Eartha Kitt

When we want to have our own style of living, it is nobody's business but ours. What we do in private is our private business.- Eartha Kitt