A gorgeous, disturbing collection of horror and magic. Lyrical and dreamy, each story blurs the lines between worlds, histories, perceptions, and shimmers with the many different, razor-sharp sides of truths. It is a beautiful compilation of Hawaiian culture and traditions, immersive and rich, told in a truthful and hard hitting voice. It discusses the blessings and curses of feminine existence, the rage, desire, and never ending struggle for agency and control of their own stories, for the right to live authentically, with no judgement and no expectations. A stunningly impactful debut....more
A riveting compilation of first-hand accounts that expose the truth behind one Greek mythology’s most iconic figures. From family, friends, lovers, anA riveting compilation of first-hand accounts that expose the truth behind one Greek mythology’s most iconic figures. From family, friends, lovers, and adversaries, we see Hercules, part god, part man, part hero, and, truthfully, part monster. We see the many contradictory and complicated aspects of Hercules’ life, the ways in which his conquests were painted with the best of brushes, his flaws and the terrors he inflicted settled safely under the mantle of demigod, hero. Herc gives fascinating and candid depth into how personas are made, asking: who decides the villain of the story? Who gets to have their names emblazoned in time, and whose names do we erase for it to happen? What acts are we forgiving for the sake of a good story? A daring and personality filled novel that expertly examines how, especially in classical myths, the ways in which we choose to use our strength is what determines whether we are weak. ...more
A retelling of the Odyssey that focuses on Penelope and the women around her as they are shaped by overseeing goddesses, and in turn shape the course A retelling of the Odyssey that focuses on Penelope and the women around her as they are shaped by overseeing goddesses, and in turn shape the course of Ithaca. From the perspective of Hera, this novel is a wide reaching twist on the classic myth, giving spotlight to the women of Ithaca as they defy the expectations of men and gods alike, showcasing flaws, ambition, and solidarity. Complex and musing, this is a retelling that praises the wit and rage of women who are ready to leave the background, and lead with a force long repressed. An interesting take on Penelope which sets the stage for its coming sequel. ...more
A whimsical journey into the Mayan underworld that examines feminism, tradition, and coming of age. With intriguing characters and compelling quests, A whimsical journey into the Mayan underworld that examines feminism, tradition, and coming of age. With intriguing characters and compelling quests, this YA adventure is a modern fairy tale which invokes the best from both past and present, human and godly. Casiopea and Hun-Kamé make a fascinating duo, as they explore what it means to be human, what makes a fleeting life worthwhile, what is the toll of immorality. A fun novel that brims with culture and charm. ...more
A poetic, haunting retelling of the Crane Wife that examines the devastating results of abuse, codependency, and grief. Told in mesmerizing prose, TheA poetic, haunting retelling of the Crane Wife that examines the devastating results of abuse, codependency, and grief. Told in mesmerizing prose, The Crane Husband is an elegantly crafted cautionary tale of generational misfortune and artistic magic. It is an ode to our protagonists resilience and ability to protect what she holds dear, even after loosing so much. It is a novella that deals with grief and resentment in such a raw and authentic way; it’s pages are a feathery loom of emotion and sorrow. This is one of the best retellings that I have read. ...more
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