This book really felt like a religious and spiritual experience for me. It's almost like a manual on how to live one's life. We are following the main character, Miyamoto Mushasi, who is based on the real-life figure of the same name, as he journeys across Japan to become the best samurai to have lived.
We start with Musashi when he is young and naive, and we see him evolve into a mature man who becomes less self-absorbed and arrogant with time. We get Musashi's reflection on many topics: from being the best at what one does, to having balance in one's life, as well as the importance of relationships and isolation. If you're interested in Japanese history and culture, whilst also wanting a deeply philosophical read that will make you think, then I strongly recommend this one for you.
Note: bear in mind, this book is split into volumes, so you don't need to read this tome all in one go!
The classic samurai novel about the real exploits of the most famous swordsman. The classic samurai novel about the real exploits of the most famous swordsman. Miyamoto Musashi was the child of an era when Japan was emerging from decades of civil strife. Lured to the great Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 by the hope of becoming a samurai-without really knowing what it meant-he regains consciousness after the battle to find himself lying defeated, dazed and wounded among thousands of the dead and dying. On his way home, he commits a rash act, becomes a fugitive and brings life in
The thematic and character work are really what struck me with Flowers for Algernon.
The book covers themes like ‘what it means to be human’ and ‘what is intelligence’. These are questions that I not only love to ponder on in my own time, but I also studied both aspects in my university degree, so it combined one of biggest interests in a very compelling narrative.
The thematic work mostly manifests itself in our main character, Charlie. Charlie is one of the best characters I've ever read. We experience the highs of lows of Charlie's journeys, and the entire experience feels cerebral. We're rooting for him every step of the way and Keyes' writing style allows for it to feel intimate.
The combination of the excellent character work and the exploration of human nature makes this book really stand out from the rest.
This has got to be one of the most underrated books I've ever read!
This is a great for those who like fantasy and/or historical fiction. There isn't tons of fantasy in it, barely any in fact, but it reads like a rich fantasy world that also has top-notch character work.
A dual perspective narrative that follows a crown prince and a merchant, we are thrown into a rich world full of drama, trading, politics, and suspense. Our two perspectives are compelling in their own ways, with interesting backstories that keep the reader engaged. It's fast-paced, with great world-building and a satisfying journey and ending.
This book has a little bit of everything and will be a sure hit for those, who, especially, enjoy intrigue, introspection on the character's part and twists and turns.
“The author had me completely spellbound by the way he intertwines a coming-of-age tale, with a tense military and political fantasy, and a compelling human drama that would appeal to any reader.” – PL Stuart, author of The Drowned Kingdom Saga
“unputdownable” – Jacob Sannox, author of The Dark Oak Chronicles and The Return of King Arthur Series
“This book is a winner for me. It’s an imaginative, splendidly layered story with compelling and captivating characters, set in a remarkably believable world setting.” – Goodreads Review
Nimsah is an abandoned child living on the streets of Bengarath, surviving on…
Been a consumer of books for (almost) my entire life… books have played a huge role in every aspect. I wanted to start reviewing books so I started my YouTube channel in 2021. On my channel, I review a variety of books: mainly fantasy and sci-fi, classics, and some contemporary and historical fiction. I also, occasionally, review manga and comics and talk about video games and TV shows. It’s a place for people to come together to talk about the books (and media) we love to consume.
