Episode: 93 – [Review] The Alchemist

Episode: 96 – [General] Why You Should Let Books Make You Uncomfortable

Some books comfort us. Others challenge us. Some make us uncomfortable, and maybe that's exactly why they're worth reading. In this episode, we talk about why stepping outside your comfort zone as a reader can be one of the most rewarding things you do. From trying new genres to taking on books that ask more of you, I share my own experiences with difficult literature, why I used to avoid it, and why I think challenge is something to embrace, but never force. Do you actively seek out books that challenge you, or do you prefer staying within your wheelhouse? Type: General | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A

Episode: 95 – [Review] Life of Pi

Life of Pi is one a beloved novels of the 21st century. It has sold millions of copies, won major awards, inspired a successful film adaptation, and continues to be recommended as a modern classic. So why did I spend most of my time with it feeling bored? In this episode, we dive into Yann Martel's famous survival story, following Pi Patel and Richard Parker across the Pacific Ocean as we try to make sense of the core question of "faith vs reason." Have you read Life of Pi? Which story did you choose to believe? Type: Review | Book: Life of Pi | Writer: Yann Martel

Episode: 94 – [Review] Aurora Rising

In this episode of Paperback Friends, I review Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff. A squad of academy rejects, an ancient galactic threat, a girl lost in time, and enough banter to power a small moon. Aurora Rising is one of those books that constantly reminded me that I am probably not the target audience for this book. It full of overwritten banter, and enough dollar store humor to feel three episodes of Saved by the Bell. It isn't until the third act the novel get's its act together. It tones down the humor, and delivers by far the best act. We talk about the writing, the characters, why the middle of the novel nearly lost me entirely, and why some books can be perfectly fine while still not being for me. Type: Review | Book: Aurora Rising | Writers: Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

Episode: 93 – [Review] The Alchemist

Finally! We are reviewing The Alchemist. This one has been a long time coming, and considering how famous this book is, and what it did to new age; I felt it was only a matter of time before we got here. In this episode I break down why The Alchemist has connected with so many readers, why the writing is surprisingly competent; even if its philosophies leaves me largely unconvinced. I love when a book challenges my perspectives, and as much as this book is not for me; I walk away from this review not hating this book anymore. Type: Review | Book: The Alchemist | Writer: Paulo Coelho

Episode: 92 – [Review] Parable of the Sower

We got a big one this week, we are tackling none other than Octavia E. Butler's Parable of the Sower. This book has been recommended to me a few times, directly and through book influencers. This book was not a light read, it took a lot from me to get through, but as I stand here on the other side of it; ready to share my review of it with you – I'm very glad that I did. So, let's get into Parable of the Sower. Type: Review | Book: Parable of the Sower | Writer: Octavia E. Butler's