What I'm Reading Now

Summaries and take-aways from the books I am reading these days.

SELFWISE WORDS

1/1/20257 min read

My Reading Journey

Welcome to My Reading Journey! Here, I spill the beans on the books that I have been reading. From poetic prose to fantasy realms, I'm diving into all sorts of genres, and I can't wait to share my literary adventures with you. I hope you find a cozy spot and join me as we explore these literary works.

What are your thoughts?? I would love to hear from you in the comment section!

Feel free to check out my entire recommended reading list below.

Recommended Reads

Currently Reading:

On the Queue:

As someone who has grappled with anxiety and depression, finding effective coping mechanisms is crucial. In my journey toward self-discovery and mental well-being, I stumbled upon "Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World" by Mark Williams and Danny Penman. I must say, it's been a game-changer.

This book is not just another self-help guide; it's a well-researched roadmap to tranquility in a world that seems perpetually disordered. What sets it apart is its practical approach backed by scientific evidence. From the very beginning, it's evident that the authors have put a great deal of effort into distilling complex concepts into accessible, actionable steps.

One aspect that particularly resonated with me was the incorporation of neuroscience and the authors' clinical research. Understanding how mindfulness practices affect the brain gave me a deeper appreciation for the techniques presented in the book. It's one thing to be told to meditate or practice mindfulness, but it's another thing entirely to comprehend the physiological changes occurring within your mind as a result.

The structured plan provided a clear framework for implementation, guiding me through gradual but impactful exercises. Each week builds upon the last, ensuring steady progress without overwhelming the reader. You can simply read through the meditations, or you can listen to them audibly by entering an access code that you receive when purchasing the book.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its versatility. Whether you're a complete novice or someone more experienced in mindfulness, there's something to be gained from its pages. Even if you've only dabbled in mindfulness before, the practical tips offered here can deepen your understanding and enhance your practice.

Although this book undoubtedly made a positive impact on my life, I hesitate to give it a perfect score. There were moments when I found myself wishing for more personal anecdotes or case studies to further illustrate the transformative power of mindfulness. Additionally, some sections felt slightly repetitive, but this is a minor quibble in the grand scheme of things.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking refuge from the whirlwind of modern life. Its practicality, thorough research, and effectiveness in alleviating anxiety and depression make it a valuable resource for anyone on the path to inner peace. While it may not be flawless, its benefits far outweigh its shortcomings. Dive into its pages with an open mind and a willingness to embrace change, and you may just find yourself emerging on the other side with a newfound sense of serenity.

Title: Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World
Author: Mark Williams & Danny Penman

Genres: Self-help, Psychology, Spirituality, Health

Rating:

Prepare to be whisked away on a fantastical journey with "A Daughter of No Worlds"! This enchanting tale balances the delicate dance between fantasy and romance, making it both charming and exciting.

Once you flip back the cover you will be greeted with the rather charming protagonist, Tisaanah (the pronunciation of this name changes every few chapters). Despite not being entirely original in concept, there's something about her that lures you in and refuses to let go. Perhaps it's her charm, her wit, or her indomitable spirit that shines through the pages, captivating me from start to finish.

As I delved into this book, I found myself pleasantly immersed in a world brimming with magic and mystery. While the world-building wasn't overly intricate, it provided just enough depth to ignite the imagination without overwhelming the senses.

Now, let's talk romance. Ah, yes, the heart-fluttering, swoon-worthy moments that leave you breathless. While "A Daughter of No Worlds" may lean more towards the new adult end of the spectrum, the romantic elements are sprinkled throughout. The unfolding of the main characters' relationship was beautifully written and balanced to not overpower the plot.

One aspect of the story that particularly captivated me was the portrayal of a protagonist who is foreign and struggles with language barriers. It's a refreshing perspective that adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to empathize with the character's journey of self-discovery and adaptation.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room - the rating. While "A Daughter of No Worlds" may not be a flawless masterpiece, it possesses a certain allure that's hard to ignore. Sure, it may not reinvent the wheel, but sometimes it's not about blazing new trails; it's about the journey itself. And oh, what a delightful journey it is!

So, if you're in the mood for a whimsical adventure with a side of romance, look no further than "A Daughter of No Worlds". With its charming protagonist, enchanting world, and just the right amount of magic, it's sure to cast a spell on your heart.

Title: Daughter of No Worlds

The War of Lost Hearts # 1

Author: Carissa Broadbent

Genres: Fiction, Fantasy, Romance, New Adult

Rating:

There is nothing I can add to the review of this legendary piece of literature that has not already been said. Beowulf, the timeless saga, has weathered the tides of history and captured the imaginations of countless readers, most notably J.R. Tolkien. As I embarked on the journey through the pages of this ancient myth, I found myself torn between admiration and contemplation.

Let's start with the translation by the esteemed poet Haney. His rendition of Beowulf is a testament to his skill and reverence for the source material. With each carefully chosen word, he breathes new life into this tale. However, despite the beauty of Haney's prose, I couldn't shake the feeling of longing for a translation that resonated more deeply with my sensibilities.

Ah, the conundrum of translations! Like a puzzle with infinite solutions, each interpretation of Beowulf offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the tale. While I appreciate the diversity of translations and the perspectives they bring, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of frustration at the lack of a definitive version.

And then there's the matter of historical context. Since there is no firm understanding of the time and culture in which Beowulf was created, some of its intricacies may be lost on modern readers. The kennings, the cultural references, the subtle nuances of Anglo-Saxon society - they all add layers of complexity to an already dense tapestry of legend. I enjoy the unraveling of all these layers; however, this novel on its own is only a handful of threads.

Despite these kinks, there's no denying the allure of Beowulf. A classical tale of a brave hero battling monsters and saving kingdoms, it's a tale that resonates with the timeless themes of courage, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

So, while Beowulf may not be without its flaws, it remains a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. It's a journey into the heart of myth and legend, where heroes are forged in the fires of adversity and the echoes of their deeds reverberate through the ages.

Title: Beowulf
Author: Unknown, Translation by Seamus Heaney

Genres: Classic, Poetry, Myth, Fantasy

Rating:

Let's Connect!

connect@fromjordie.com

Subscribe to stay up to date