Hello June!
One of my blogging resolutions for 2023 was to share a regular reading update. The latter half of 2022 hadn’t been too kind and I had dropped the ball midway. 2023 too has been eventful with work taking priority and the body in rebel mode. I have been rather picky with the books this year and DNF-ed the ones that weren’t working for me. All in all, I read some excellent books that I cannot wait to share.
Long overdue and better late than never, here is another attempt to continue with the series. Wish me luck! Read on as I share what I have been reading for the last few months. As always, I hope you find some that appeal to you too.
Books I read:
Not Quite a Disaster After All by Buku Sarkar
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Fiction, Format: Review copy / Hardcover
Two strong yet fragile women. Two women who couldn’t be more different from each other. Two women in search of their identity. Interweaved with two cities, Calcutta and New York. Calcutta felt claustrophobic for one. New York represented freedom for both.
The charm of Not Quite A Disaster After All is the evocative prose that draws you in. The anxieties. The rebellions. The wins – big and small. By no means a light read, this debut book makes you uncomfortable. A book that makes you think. If you enjoy layered characters and narrative, do pick up the book.
Dust Child by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Historical Fiction, Format: ARC Ebook
The Mountains Sing is a vivid and gripping account of Vietnam’s 20th-century history. One of the first to showcase the Vietnamese perspective.
The author’s sophomore novel, Dust Child, captures the heartache and trauma during and after the war. The Amerasian children, the soldiers on all sides, the villagers, the city dwellers, and people who had nothing to do with the politics of war.
One of the most anticipated reads of 2023, the book did not disappoint. It is definitely my favorite pick of the year. I cannot recommend it enough. An all five stars read.
The Forest Keeper – The True Story of Jadav Payeng by Rina Singh, Ishita Jain (Illustrator)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Children’s Picture Book, Format: ARC Hardcover
Can one person with limited resources single-handedly plant a forest? The teenager Jadav Payeng did precisely that. He proved that all it takes is one individual and the determination to make a difference. Today, three decades later, the dense Molai forest (bearing his nickname) has grown into a flourishing one of almost 1,300 acres.
Picture books are an excellent way to introduce young children to ecology and environmental stewardship. All of 40 pages, The Forest Keeper fits the bill if you are a young Indian parent.
The Blue Women: Stories by Anukrti Upadhyay
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Short stories, Format: Kindle ebook
I have always enjoyed Anukrti Upadhyay’s works. One of my favorite authors, there is something atmospheric about her writing. Be it Bhaunri, Daura, Kintsugi, or Neena Aunty.
Her recent collection of short stories, The Blue Women, is no different. Some disturbing. Some quirky. Some relatable. Some riveting. But all about women who refuse to be cast in a mold. Who are as flawed as they come. 12 stories with characters that stay with you long after.
Do pick it up if you haven’t already.
Everyday Revolution: Finding clarity, conviction and joy with Feminism by Amrita Purkayastha
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Non-Fiction, Format: Kindle ebook
What exactly is feminism? And how does it work in everyday life? Career. Family. Balancing traditions. Smashing patriarchy. Why we need feminism now than ever more.
Set across five themes – childhood, marriage, motherhood, beauty and work – Everyday Revolution explores the meaning of feminism in the current context. A research with 100 women across age, class, caste, and geographies. A wholesome read with prompts at the end of each chapter for some reflection and introspection. Go pick it up already.
The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Contemporary fiction, Format: Audiobook
Some books feel like a warm, fluffy blanket and a hot cup of cocoa on a cold winter day. The Authenticity Project is one such book.
After some emotionally draining reads, I was looking for a light pick and this could not have been more perfect. Similar to the author’s The People on Platform 5, a varied bunch of strangers all connected through a green notebook. Each putting up appearances but trying to be their authentic self.
A book that is sure to leave you with a smile on your face. I read the audiobook and the narration was the cherry on top. If audiobooks are your thing, that is the format I would definitely suggest.
Happy Place by Emily Henry
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Contemporary Romance, Format: Audiobook
Harriet and Wyn, the not-so-perfect couple (they broke up six months ago), need to put up a facade for their friends at the annual trip to the Happy Place. But they aren’t the only ones with secrets.
Happy Place is quintessentially Emily Henry with second chances, found family, and flawed but lovable characters. Just don’t go in looking for a light-hearted, feel-good romance since it has a lot going on. Some that can be triggering.
It is a heartwarming read nonetheless about what being an adult is all about. Definitely recommended.
My Lawfully Wedded Husband and Other Stories by Madhulika Liddle
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Short stories, Format: Kindle ebook
Deliciously twisted stories you cannot get enough of! My Lawfully Wedded Husband and Other Stories is a collection of 12 short stories that are laced with dark humor. Revenge, comeuppance, or just plain evil. All with a twist in the tale. Although at times predictable, enjoyable reads nonetheless.
The book was recommended by Tarang Sinha. She is my go-to for Hindi book recommendations but this was a winner as well. I am looking forward to reading more books by the author.
The book is available on Kindle Unlimited and definitely recommended.
Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐, Genre: Mystery/Thriller, Format: Audiobook
Move over aunties! Vera Wong is here! Nosy, opinionated, your very own regular 60-year-old Asian aunty with all the trimmings. And a super sleuth in the making.
Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers is a madcap. A cozy mystery about an old eccentric widow who decides to take matters into her own hands after a body is discovered in her quaint yet dated tea shop. Armed with all the information she needs from shows such as CSI and the like. Add a varied bunch of suspects and you’re sorted.
I really enjoyed listening to the book and definitely recommend it. Go for the story and not necessarily the mystery.
Currently reading:
I am currently listening to Yellow Face by R.F. Kuang. It is a dark pacy satire about the publishing industry, plagiarism, racism, POC, white privilege, social media blowups, and the cancel culture. You name it and it’s there. A kind of book that works for you or doesn’t. And I am quite enjoying it.
I am also reading Calcutta on your Plate by Nilosree Biswas. If it is about food and about my second hometown, how could I miss it?
June TBR:
I haven’t really stuck to my TBR lately but one book that I am looking forward to reading is the ARC for the highly anticipated Much Ado About Nada by Uzma Jalaluddin. A second-chance romance inspired by my favorite Jane Austen book – Persuasion.
I am also hoping to finally get to How Creativity Rules the World: The Art and Business of Turning Your Ideas into Gold by Maria Brito which has been on my shelf for a while. More so since have an audiobook now.
Last but not least, I plan to pick up a few Asian queer books for Pride month.
Reading Challenges:
The reading challenges are well on track with 20 books up until now.
Most of my reads this year have been frontlists or 2023 publications. I read My Lawfully Wedded Husband and Other Stories and The Authenticity Project for the Project Backlist challenge. Everyday Revolution for the non-fiction challenge. And made a slight dent in the bingo challenge too.
On the Blog
I have Blogchatter’s #WriteAPageADay campaign to thank for the content I have shared on my blog these past few months. It is a great way to build up a bank of draft posts.
Apart from the reviews listed above, there has been a mix of guides, discussion posts, and listicles. And the launch of a new series, Blogging 101.
What have you been reading lately? Which book from the list are you planning to pick up soon? Do share in the comments below.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Zariya Healings.
Photo credit: Canva.com
June 3, 2023 @ 9:02 am
Ritu, I love to read your reviews. You must also write a post on how you choose your books. I’m curious to know because picking a book is no easy task, do you agree? How then do you choose your variety? Is it recos or blurbs or something else altogether?
June 3, 2023 @ 11:40 am
After many years, I took part in a reading challenge, so that I could stay abreast in this fast changing world of reading and writing. And till now, I have managed to read 18 books this year. And now, your list has added a few books to my TBR, especially Dust Child. I also like the challenge planner that you have shared at the end. That’s a good tracker and inspiration as well, makes it easy to choose.
June 4, 2023 @ 1:50 pm
Amazing as always Ritu… I’m really keen to read a few of the books from your list. Like you participated in writing ‘a page a day,’ I think I need to participate in ‘reading some pages a day’ challenge 😛to keep the rigor as it’s a challenge for me to read on a daily basis.
All the best for your next 2o.
June 3, 2023 @ 6:29 pm
You are truly an extraordinary reader, engaging in the remarkable endeavor of reading, reviewing, and journaling. I recently discovered an inspiring initiative called Hyderabad Reads on Instagram, where they organize a weekly book reading session at the park I frequently visit for my walks. The concept of immersing oneself in nature while indulging in the joy of reading and having the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals is truly delightful. The simplicity of quietly sitting and reading without any formal group discussions adds a serene touch to the experience.
June 4, 2023 @ 1:50 pm
Amazing as always Ritu… I’m really keen to read a few of the books from your list. Like you participated in writing ‘a page a day,’ I think I need to participate in ‘reading some pages a day’ challenge 😛to keep the rigor as it’s a challenge for me to read on a daily basis.
All the best for your next 2o.
June 3, 2023 @ 6:43 pm
I too am making a conscious effort to read more books this year, as nothing enriches us like reading. Also, I love, love the books you have read so far, they are very nice books and while I would love to read them all , the Dust Child is the one book that really is catching my attention for its historical background.
June 3, 2023 @ 6:58 pm
Yellow Pages has created quite a few ripples. Your reading list is always full of great recommendations, Ritu. Half year down, although I’ve read quite a few books, but I can definitely make this list more impressive with your suggestions. Thank you!
June 3, 2023 @ 8:49 pm
I seriously admire the way you keep up to your reading and motivate others. A few of the reads out here that mentioned actually caught my attention hoping to grab one soon.
June 4, 2023 @ 1:05 pm
That’s an interesting selection of books which you have read. My reading has taken a toos but its motivating to read your post.
June 4, 2023 @ 2:45 pm
You are an absolute reading superstar Ritu, diving headfirst into the incredible adventure of reading, reviewing, and journaling. As for me, participating in reading book challenges is not my cup of tea, but hey, I’ve got mad respect for those daredevils who take on the challenge! Keep rocking those literary feats and showing the world how it’s done! 😊
June 4, 2023 @ 5:03 pm
Everyday revolution is the one book in this list which I have read and I agree with your opinion about the book. But what I will appreciate about you is that you are quite a fast reader my dear and the most important aspect is that you give short, to the point and honest review which reflects your brilliant skill of quality reviewing. Challenges are something I am in love with and get an extra level of energy within me to be in the race. Glad to a know an excellent reviewer like you Ritu
June 4, 2023 @ 5:24 pm
Good to see you back with your wrap up posts. I am going to listen to Yellowface soon. What you have been telling me, it sounds really good.
June 4, 2023 @ 6:14 pm
Wow! Great update and there are a couple of books that caught my eye. Appreciate you sharing this list which gives me/us great suggestions in a way on what to read next. Cheers to more books to read!
June 4, 2023 @ 8:32 pm
wonderful reading list. I too have some of these books sent for review. Have to read the book by Amrita. wow you are doing the best of going by your 2023 resolution.
June 4, 2023 @ 9:04 pm
For one who takes her own time to savour every book she reads at leisure, I admire those who are on to reading challenges and are voracious readers. You have an interesting compilation of books and I see myself returning to your blog for some great recos. Quite enjoyed reading your review.
June 4, 2023 @ 9:29 pm
Wow you are a voracious reader! I wish I could carve out time for this passion of mine, which has been sacrificed by motherhood and other commitments!
I would really like to read the Forest Keeper.
June 5, 2023 @ 8:17 am
It’s been so long since I have made a wrap up post for the books I read. I just like to read and post about them on my Instagram page and blog. I have read only Authenticity Project from your list. I read it last year and had loved every bit of it.
June 5, 2023 @ 10:46 am
I love your book choices, you know! Trust me, I have a couple of these books on my shelf but never got around to reading them. I am going to read your reviews and maybe, I shall read a few. Good luck with your June TBR 🙂
June 6, 2023 @ 8:51 am
What an eclectic list Ritu. Some have gone on my immediate TBR. I love the idea of a reading roundup. This year I have been exceptionally lazy in keeping track of what I have read. I have even deserted Goodreads which used to be my go to place for recording my reading. But this is a reminder for me to get back on track even though half of 2023 has almost gone.
June 7, 2023 @ 1:44 am
Some very good books in your list…will be sure to steal.them. as usual am amazed by the variety in your reading.
August 12, 2023 @ 1:41 pm
Thanks for introducing me to some interesting sounding books. The only author I’ve read from your list is Madhulika Liddle who is famous for her mystery novels set in the Mughal era. Check them out!