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ClareR (5991 KP) rated One of Them in Books

May 12, 2021  
One of Them
One of Them
Musa Okwonga | 2021 | Biography
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This is a memoir in short, punchy chapters, of Musa Okwonga’s experience of Eton College. Musa’s mother, a widowed doctor, supports Musa’s wish to go to one of the leading public schools in the country, and pays 50% of the fees that his scholarship doesn’t cover. It’s still a lot of money - and what does he get for that?

Well. I would say that I’m firmly in the anti- public/ private school camp, but I can’t find any fault in Musa’s education. He seems to have really enjoyed his time at Eton. He received a well-rounded education, and it comes across, largely speaking, as a caring institution. He does have some trouble with other boys: racist comments for example. He doesn’t seem to register these instances, and only finds out through another ex-student once he has left.

I liked how Musa looks at the reasons behind Brexit, about our continuing culture of the ‘Haves’ and “Have Nots’, and how if those who went to institutions such as Eton were less self-serving, just how much good they could contribute to this country. Instead, their attitudes seem to have contributed to the rise of the far right.

It’s a really interesting, if short, book, and well worth a read.

Many thanks to The Pigeonhole, Unbound and to Musa for reading along.
  
The Overlook (Harry Bosch, #13; Harry Bosch Universe, #16)
The Overlook (Harry Bosch, #13; Harry Bosch Universe, #16)
Michael Connelly | 2007 | Crime, Fiction & Poetry, Thriller
8
7.8 (6 Ratings)
Book Rating
Fast Paced Fast Read
LAPD Detective Harry Bosch has recently transferred to the Los Angeles Homicide Special department, and his first case finds him at an overlook on Mulholland Drive where a doctor was shot in the back of the head. Bosch has hardly gotten the basics of the case when the FBI shows up. As jurisdictional wars break out, Bosch tries to keep his focus on solving the crime. Can he do it?

I was surprised to find this book was shorter than normal for a Harry Bosch novel, but when I learned it originally appeared in serialized form, it made sense. The book doesn’t skimp on twists and turns; they are still packed into the pages. I had part of the solution figured out early, but it was just a small part of it. Bosch is dealing with a ticking clock, and that means that any personal sub-plots are left out of the book. Because of the shorter length, the characters aren’t as well developed as usual, but this lack of character growth is a minor issue. What bothered me more was some of Bosch’s actions here. Normally, I enjoy his efforts to skirt the rules, but in this case, I felt he went a bit too far. Still, Harry’s many fans will enjoy this fast-paced entry to the series.
  
Swan Girl (Rifters #2)
Swan Girl (Rifters #2)
Isa Briarwood | 2019 | Science Fiction/Fantasy
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Swan Girl (Rifters #2) by Isa Briarwood
Swan Girl is the second book in the Rifters series, and although this book finishes perfectly, I'm holding out hope there is still more to come!

We reunite with Cate and Angus as they arrive in Ireland in 2083. This is a world completely unknown to Cate, and her struggles are real. Once Angus' parents are in the mix, things go a bit easier. This story is about choices - Cate's, Angus', and others.

It is incredibly well-written, with only a couple of moments when I had to go back and re-read something, just to be sure. The story wraps up nicely, bringing a tear to my eye! I loved how it all came together, but one of the best parts for me was when Cate when back to her time. What I want to know is what happens in the future with the knowledge she gave the doctor? See? I told you there should be more!

Full of action and adventure, this was a rip-roaring sequel that definitely fulfilled it's promise. Absolutely recommended by me.

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!