Jen Silverman’s novel "We Play Ourselves" is a sharp, humour-filled exploration of the human condition... specifically pertaining to being a queer writer navigating scandal and ambition in her thirties. Running from New York to L.A., Cass encounters a diverse cast of characters, including a filmmaker documenting teenage girls' reinterpretation of the cult classic Fight Club. Silverman skillfully weaves themes of success, joy, criticism, and being human, keeping readers; attention while questioning the nature of good intentions against the backdrop of life's complexity.
Tag: Book Critic
Humanity of Horses in Sarah Maslin Nir’s Horse Crazy
Sarah Maslin Nir explores the humanity of horses and her connection to an animal that gave her a sense of belonging when she couldn't find it in the world or her family. For her it was horses, for me it was dogs, but we all need to feel we belong to someone, even if that someone is a horse.
Claustrophobic and Voyeuristic Nature of High Society in Gervais Hagerty’s In Polite Company
In her debut novel, Hagerty creates a moving and captivating piece about the limitations placed on women to stay the course and not make waves. In Polite Company is all the things one could hope for in a book about existing in the claustrophobic and voyeuristic society of the rich and powerful. It's good, but it's not great.
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lọlá Shónẹ́yìn Explores Specific Yet Universal Themes
Shoneyin tackles universal themes by exploring the interior lives of four Nigerian women through the secrets they keep in a conservative, polygamist family.
Scottish Tartan and Highland Dress by Fiona MacDonald
I brought this teeny little book with me to Minnesota's Renaissance Faire during their Scottish Highland themed weekend. I'm a huge fan of history, fashion, and fun facts, so Scottish Tartan and Highland Dress by Fiona Macdonald was a fun read, even though, it was a bit basic at times.
Confronting Death in It’s Your Funeral by Kathy Benjamin
With a sense of humor, Kathy Benjamin prepares her readers for the one completely unavoidable consequence of living: death. We can't control what happens once we're gone, but with a little bit of preparedness, we can sure try. Also write your damn will.