I‘ve been trying to get through this book for more than two years. I think I was subconsciously saving it for when I really needed it. There were so many parallels to the way things are now, which was…terrifying. And while this story was tragic and heartbreaking, it was also hopeful. As Patria silently says to “El Jefe”, Rafael Trujillo: “you‘re no spring chicken…and soon, you‘re going to be where you don‘t make the rules.”
pickWhile I learned a lot, and went on internet dives to find all the pictures, there were a few things that took it down to a soft pick for me. The writing became so repetitive at the last few chapters that I at first thought my playback had jumped back to a previous chapter. The narrator spoke good French most of the time, but there were moments of mispronunciation (Mai pronounced “mah-ee”) and cadence (reading “independently wealthy and beautiful”
pickAn intriguing historical account of the beginning of America's war for independence. Very well written, it not only details the events, but also the conflicting ideals of the people and nations involved. America ultimately won its independence, but had cooler heads prevailed that independence may never have been fought for, or even desired. A worthwhile read.
pickThis book examines how Napoleon expanded his authority, through a combination of stretching the limits of the law and constitution, less than legal means, and a blend of intimidation and effective bribery. The book also examines various people who helped facilitate Napoleon's rise to power. Overall, definitely recommend.
With the PNW autumn chill this morning, it felt appropriate to curl up with a coffee and a book before starting the workday. And what better way to do it than with words of revolution? #revolutionaryletters #dianediprima
Next up for reading.
pickPopovic was part of the movement (Otpor) that ousted Milosevic from power in Serbia, and this book is a handbook of sorts—taking principles from Otpor and discussing how those principles could be applied in a variety of contexts, using nonviolent activism and resistance to effect change. The wealth of examples he offers are inspiring and often hilarious. I can‘t help but wonder if the Portland Frog was inspired by this book… ⤵️
pick"In the year 2025, the best men don't run for president, they run for their lives... "
I love it when dates line up like this ?
In a dystopian version of the US, Ben is desperate for money for his sick daughter. He is so desperate that he volunteers for the running man game, a game no one has ever won ?⬛
#HauntedShelf #BlackCatCrew ##WordFinder #ScavengerHunt #Red #BookRecommendations #unhinged @PuddleJumper
"Congress and the Senate were empty pretences, farces. Public questions were gravely debated and passed upon according to the old forms, while in reality all that was done to give the stamp of constitutional procedure to the mandate of the Oligarchy."
-Jack London, "The Iron Heel"
pickThis woman can write. She doesn't shy from the ugliness of war, famine, struggles. There were times I drowned in the way she described life. Just beautiful and pure. I will definitely read her novels. There beginning of the Revolution was clearly started by #MenofLetters @OutsmartYourShelf #FoodandLit @texreader @Catsandbooks
