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

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

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

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

The war of Sam Ögren against things everybody likes continues! This week I'm raving about book sequels, and why I so much prefer stand-alone books.

However, I don't just sit there and complain. I also try to explain why I believe there are so many sequels, and why it makes perfect sense as well as why it's okay to like them.

A solid, quick general episode. Gone is the era of filler episodes!

Type: General | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A

Personal efficiency expert Oskar Eklind once again honors us with his presence! This time he talks about something that I hear people mention quite often; not reading as much anymore.

Why do we stop reading, when does it happen, and how can we pick it back up again? These and more questions we cover in this great interview episode.

Thanks for taking the time Oskar; it feels so nice to get an expert's perspective.

If you are curious about Oskar and his personal efficiency coaching, his podcast or his news letter you can find more information on his webpage.

Type: Interview | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A

This was not the best book for me. I don't love the genre, and I can't say much in this novel made me care. Writer Patricia Wolf does something pretty strange considering this is supposed to be a thriller. It's fine for what it is, but I have a lot of fun breaking this one down; I hope you have as much fun listening to it!

Type: Review | Book: Outback | Writer: Patricia Wolf

We had to dig deep for this episode, but it was a lot of fun even if it was a bit more work, and I think it turned out pretty well too. I hope that it feels worthwhile for you, my dear listener, and don't hesitate to reach out with questions.

Huge thanks to Nina Tegar for supplying some of the spine for the episode.

Other sources:

• https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US
• https://www.myidentifiers.com/identify-protect-your-book/isbn/buy-isbn
• https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/GTJ8LBXL6Z4WV5QX
• https://tegarforlag.se/

Type: Writing 101 | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A