Vocal Book Club

How Much Do We Really Need What We Call Our "Needful Things"?
In my review I wrote for Stephen King’s Lisey’s Story I mentioned my disappointment at the execution of the novel, even though it’s a beautifully written book. After reading it I wasn’t convinced to stop reading his work by any means. Something I’ve noticed in the last couple of years is that I’ve come to really love King's work spanning from the late 80's to about the mid 90's. I’m not sure why this is. It could be that I was born in 1992 and maybe it’s a subconscious thing, although even I can’t put all of my eggs into that basket. Honestly, there’s just something to those stories that really speak to me even though I can’t quite put my finger on it. But I digress. When I picked up Needful Things, I was yet again impressed and relieved since this is a novel of King’s I had been wanting to read for many years.
By Chloe Medeirosabout a year ago in BookClub
Formal Suit for Men: 10 Essential Tips for Choosing the Perfect Fit
When it comes to formal attire, a well-fitted suit is a timeless staple in every man’s wardrobe. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, a job interview, or a formal event, understanding how to choose the perfect suit can significantly enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. Here are ten essential tips to consider when selecting a formal suit for men.
By Jennis & Warmannabout a year ago in BookClub
18 Proven Psychological Techniques to Instantly Understand Anyone
When meeting someone for the first time, you're bombarded with information. It can be overwhelming to decipher the kind of person they are. Communication goes beyond words. In fact, experts suggest that 55% of communication comes from body language, 38% from tone of voice, and only 7% from what we actually say. This means you need to focus on more than just words to understand someone fully.
By Thanh Danabout a year ago in BookClub
Enjoy this book Temptress by Jade Lee. AI-Generated.
Temptress by Jade Lee is a sweeping and evocative historical romance set within the luxurious and treacherous world of China’s Forbidden City during the Ming Dynasty, a place of beauty, intrigue, and dangerous power plays. It follows the journey of a young woman, Chen Ji Yue, as she strives to achieve the seemingly unattainable dream of becoming the wife of the Emperor—a position that promises unimaginable prestige, wealth, and influence, but comes with its own set of perilous challenges and sacrifices.
By Akale Mandunduabout a year ago in BookClub
Enjoy this book The Wildes by Louis Bayard. AI-Generated.
The Wildes by Louis Bayard is a profoundly moving novel that delves into the personal and familial struggles of Oscar Wilde, one of the most celebrated playwrights and poets of the late Victorian era, and his wife Constance, along with their two sons, Cyril and Vyvyan. Set against the backdrop of Wilde’s scandalous downfall, this richly detailed narrative explores the years leading up to and following the infamous trial in which Wilde was convicted for "gross indecency," a charge that, at its core, punished him for his homosexual relationships in a society deeply entrenched in conservatism and moral rigidity.
By Akale Mandunduabout a year ago in BookClub
Logic & Emotion
In the shadowy corners of the city, the downpour tapped steadily on the windows, as though attempting to break the obstruction between the rest of the world and within. The roads were splashed, however nobody focused, and the night appeared to conceal confidential, old and immaculate.
By Karima SH.about a year ago in BookClub
The Hidden Temple of Zephyria
In the heart of the ancient kingdom of Zephyria, a legend whispered of a hidden temple, a place of immense power and untold treasures. The temple, said to be guarded by mythical creatures and shrouded in an impenetrable mist, was a tantalizing mystery that had captivated adventurers and scholars for centuries. A young woman named Anya, driven by curiosity and a thirst for adventure, set out to find the hidden temple. Armed with ancient maps, cryptic riddles, and a heart filled with courage, she ventured into the treacherous wilderness of Zephyria. Her journey was fraught with danger. She faced treacherous terrains, encountered venomous creatures, and braved the wrath of the elements. But Anya's determination remained unwavering. She knew that the temple held the key to unlocking the secrets of Zephyria's past and perhaps even the future. After weeks of perilous travel, Anya stumbled upon a hidden valley. The mist that had shrouded the temple for so long began to dissipate, revealing a majestic structure carved into the side of a towering cliff. The temple was guarded by a fearsome dragon, its scales shimmering in the sunlight. Anya knew she had to face the dragon to gain entry to the temple. Drawing upon her courage and wit, she devised a plan to distract the beast. She played a haunting melody on her flute, a gift from her grandmother, which calmed the dragon's fury. The creature, mesmerized by the music, lowered its guard, allowing Anya to slip past and enter the temple. Inside the temple, Anya was greeted by a dazzling array of treasures and ancient artifacts. But she was not there for material gain. She sought the knowledge and wisdom that the temple was said to hold. As she explored the temple's chambers, Anya discovered a hidden chamber filled with ancient scrolls and tomes. She spent hours deciphering the cryptic symbols and arcane languages. Finally, she uncovered the secret of Zephyria's past. The temple held the key to unlocking the power of nature. It was a place where the elements could be harnessed and controlled. Anya realized that this knowledge could be used to heal the land and bring prosperity to Zephyria. With a newfound sense of purpose, Anya left the temple, determined to share her discovery with the world. She returned to her village, where she was hailed as a hero. Her journey had not only led her to the hidden temple but had also revealed the true power of courage, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge.
By samen_xabout a year ago in BookClub
Enjoy this book Such Lovely Skin by Tatiana Schlote-Bonne. AI-Generated.
"Such Lovely Skin" by Tatiana Schlote-Bonne is a captivating and haunting novel that delves into the psychological struggles of its protagonist, Viv, a gamer who is grappling with deep guilt and trauma. At its core, the novel blends elements of psychological horror with a contemporary exploration of the impact of gaming culture, grief, and guilt. The story is dark and unsettling, yet it is also poignant in its portrayal of a young woman trying to come to terms with her past and the terrifying consequences of her actions.
By Akale Mandunduabout a year ago in BookClub
Enjoy this book Ruin Road by Lamar Giles. AI-Generated.
"Ruin Road" by Lamar Giles is a riveting and powerful young adult novel that skillfully weaves together themes of identity, race, fear, power, and the desire for acceptance. Set against the backdrop of a prestigious high school and a rough neighborhood, Giles tackles the complexities of being a young Black man in a society that often labels and judges based on appearance and preconceived notions. The protagonist, Cade Webster, is a deeply relatable character who navigates the tension between his aspirations and the stereotypes that follow him wherever he goes.
By Akale Mandunduabout a year ago in BookClub
Birdgirl: Looking to the Skies in Search of a Better Future by Mya-Rose Craig. AI-Generated.
"Birdgirl: Looking to the Skies in Search of a Better Future" by Mya-Rose Craig is an evocative memoir that weaves together themes of family, nature, and the personal journey of a young woman deeply committed to the preservation of the environment. Craig, at the core of her identity, is not only a passionate birder but also an ardent environmental activist, and this book serves as a reflection of both these facets of her life. Growing up with a love for the natural world, Craig’s relationship with birds began early, influenced heavily by her family’s profound connection to nature.
By Akale Mandunduabout a year ago in BookClub
Review of Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence (Fully Revised and Updated for 2018) by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez. AI-Generated.
There has been an enormous discussion around the notion of financial freedom in the last decade, including the FIRE movement. This clearrawing of money and the relationship we have with it is evident in one of the most popular books on the subject: Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez. The book was first published in 1992 and this edition was updated in 2018 with present-day financial structures in mind. The essence of the book, however, remains the same: it’s a life-changing guide to reprogramming the way we approach money, consumption and happiness.
By TAPHAabout a year ago in BookClub
Rick Riordan Presents Imprint vs short stories from class:
My creative project is a compare and contrast between three books from a published imprint to several short stories we have read in class. The imprint is called Rick Riordan Presents, Riordan is the author of the Percy Jackson series and many others who have partnered with Disney Hyperion Book Group to complete a simple goal. From Riordan himself, he states on the imprint's website “the goal of the imprint is to publish great middle- grade authors from underrepresented cultures and backgrounds, to let them tell their own stories inspired by the mythologies and folklore of their own heritage” (Riordan). The respective stories that I have chosen to analyze focus on Korean, Hindu, and West African mythologies. Those books are The Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee, Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi, and Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia. The PowerPoint presentation will be analyzing settings, conflicts, and themes in the primary and secondary sources.
By Victoria Wardabout a year ago in BookClub