Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Dystopian, Young Adult, Adventure
Type: Fiction
No-nonsense book after a very long time. The story has all the right elements to make it a page-turner. Katniss, the kickass female protagonist has no emotional outbursts despite standing on a knife-edge situation. Being a dystopian novel, I was expecting a very depressing story line. Of-course, there are no joyful incidents, but they do not bring down the emotional state of the readers, rather, it focuses more on how any tribute is going to win the hunger games. The tragic killings of the fellow tributes were shown in a less gruesome manner than I anticipated. So that's a relief. This book is also a first-person account from Katniss and gives us insight of a young girl hardened by life. She is compassionate, selfish at times, dexterous, not emotionless but is not weak.
I am still thinking why I never attempted to read this book before. I am looking forward to continue the trilogy. The author demands an applause for the designing the characters and the dystopian world in such a way.
My Verdict: This book is a tease for those who cannot handle anticipation
Author: Cecelia Ahern
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Chick-lit
Type: Fiction
The book keeps me wondering how some unconventional friendships can change the perspective towards life.The plot explores the love-hate friendship between two neighbors - Jasmine and Matt and gives the first-person account of Jasmine all the way.
The novel is partitioned into 4 seasons - Winter, Spring Summer, Autumn which I think represents the different moods of the story. Starts with the gloomy mood and the Jasmine's coldness towards Matt, moving towards new revelations, realizations, acquaintances and warming up to Matt during the spring, colorful blooming of relationships happens in the summer and towards autumn, ends with the beautiful satisfaction.
I like how Jasmine compares her life to different plants when she forays into gardening. I was under the impression that this is going to be a boy-meets-girl kinda story but certainly liked the way it broke my assumption.
The flow is medium-paced and would suit readers who want to read a few chapters and brood over the thoughts. I grew fond of Heather, Jasmine's sister who has Down's syndrome but is confident, finds happiness in every aspect of life, has only short term goal and truly satisfied with life.
Unlike any other chick-lit I have read, this plot has very little scope for humor. There are places where you can find yourself smiling but cannot laugh aloud.
This book has a philosophical stand towards life and you will certainly need some time to think. Do not expect a hearty laugh just because it is a chick-lit.
