Spinster: Making a Life of One's Own
Written by Kate Bolick
A woman never really realizes her worth in society until she reaches her thirties. It seems ridiculous in this day and age, but I can attest that if one is not paired up or producing children by this time, all other achievements reached in life are secondary. So many of our pop culture tropes of the unmarried female are, sadly, steeped in realities that harken back to bygone times. 'Spinster' delves into this history, exploring the lives of several inspirational women that went against the grain while also offering commentary on what it's like being a single woman in the 21st century. It made me feel better about choosing a life devoted to myself (and my dog, Monty).
Favourite line: "I will send you a note later about the specific difference between those writers who possess the natural confidence that is their birthright, and those fewer writers who are driven by the unnatural courage that comes from no alternative. It is something like this – some walk on a tightrope, or continue to walk, even after they find out is it not there."
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India Becoming
Written by Akash Kapur
It's an exciting time in world history. As new economies take flight and conventional world influence is transitioning from being traditionally western to eastern-based, ripples of metamorphosis are extending across the globe. India is such a country experiencing the revolution first-hand; this book paints an intriguing portrait of how the rapid, all-encompassing change is affecting the average citizen (for better or worse) from challenging the caste system to modernizing romance to the pressures of finding and keeping quality employment. An excellent, informative read.
Favourite line: ""This really sums up the change in modern India," he said. "Everyone has a great sense of what the world owes them, not what they owe the world."
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Citi 60 Tokyo: 60 Local Creatives Bring You The Best of the City
I picked this book up awhile ago in preparation for my upcoming trip to Japan (one week away!!!). I normally get DK but just couldn't resist this: TOKYO + DESIGN & ART & ARCHITECTURE = a travel guidebook that feels like it was made just for me. The information presented on the city is quite extensive with lots of compelling photography and QR codes that link to further digital content. Design details are impressive such as paper selection and a cover wrap that folds out into a beautifully illustrated map of the the world's biggest city. Let's go!
Favorite line: I like everything about it and now want to hunt down versions of other cities I appreciate.
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