Recently read books which I’ll recommend
So yeah I have been reading a lot less than I would like but I still manage. I have started reading some pacey books lately because I’m struggling with my focus and while I love reading mundane Japanese fiction, to be very honest, I am just not able to keep up with them right now. I have also re-read some old books that have become my go-to comfort reads at this point or for when I want to read but also don’t want to start something new. This is a small list of the books that I have read recently and would recommend, both new and old.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller- I had read Circe before which actually came after The Song of Achilles. But this book! My lord this book is so beautiful! The story is a retelling of Homer’s Iliad from the point of view of Patroclus. It explores the deep bond and loyalty of his and Achilles’ relationship and while so many historians have different takes on the nature of their relationship, this seems like the most accurate take. The story is beautiful and the lyrical prose just keeps you going without stopping. I devoured it in two days. Ten on ten would recommend.
After Dark by Haruki Murakami- Although I am steering clear of Japanese lit at the moment, this book is one of my all time favorites and my most favorite from Murakami. I have read it thrice now and I keep going back to it because it’s so strange, sometimes sinister and just magical. If you need some out of this world experience in the shroud of the night then this mysterious little novella could be definitely for you.
Second Place by Rachel Cusk- This is one weird, artsy book that I picked up and am almost done with it though it is still on going. I like the bizarreness of this book and although some might say it is boring I found it very refreshing and interesting.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde- It’s a classic for a reason and Oscar Wilde really understood the assignment! This whacky, sinisterly delicious novel has one of the best plot twists and I love the entire story to be honest. It’s just so good that I have re-read it a lot of times starting from when I was in college. The movie adaptation starring Ben Barnes is also decent.