st_ethan_c's reviews
15 reviews

As a pastor and patient, Kegler does a fantastic job of giving a voice to those who struggle with mental health issues, while urging the church community to be compassionate and take up the onus of accompanying those experiencing these issues. It is refreshing to see someone talk about mental health with authenticity and vulnerability, leaning on biblical values and lessons as a framework for care while criticizing how the Christian culture of using platitudes such as "just put your faith in God" or "just pray to God for healing" is simply not enough. I find comfort and resonance in Kegler's words.

"Science explicates, poetry implicates. Both celebrate what they describe." Le Guin's quote, introduced on the half-title page of the book, serves as an incisive statement of purpose. Popova utilizes scientific understanding and poetic works in tandem to construct a full picture of 15 theories, forming a reflective, enlightening narrative that has furthered my awe of the universe. I also appreciate her inclusion of various female scientists and poets in her stories, it was great learning about the fantastic works of these women who are so often left out of history.

In his book, Fanon engages in a lengthy inspection of the implications of colonialism on the colonized people, their journey to achieve national consciousness, and eventually liberation. As a trained psychiatrist, Fanon specifically places emphasis on the psyche of the individual who deals with oppression, and how this impact extends to a social collective, with a whole chapter dedicated to cases of mental illnesses caused directly by trauma related to colonialism.

I must admit that I was not well acquainted enough with the history of African colonialism to understand the full scope of Fanon's arguments, but a point that stood out to me most was how colonialism relies heavily on the dehumanization of the native to subjugate them, but by their willingness to carry out horrific acts of violence it is actually the colonizers that deny themselves of their humanity. Such examples that Fanon includes in his case analyses are not only native Algerians traumatized by war and torture, but European officers who are driven mad by their interrogation and torture of Algerians. This book does not shy away from the graphic details of atrocities committed by colonizers on African soil, appalling yet a potent recall to Fanon's justification of violence as a rightful means to overthrow the oppressor. Fanon's manifesto for decolonization is written with urgency and ardor, and remains an indispensable voice for countries on the uneasy path of regaining their sovereignty amidst the aftershock of emancipation— not just for Africa, but many communities fighting for liberation to this very day. 

As a story written from multiple points of view, I could see the author’s attempts to give each character a unique voice, writing style, and personality, but the plot progression feels stagnant and lackluster in unnecessarily drawn-out dialogues. The ending of the story felt abrupt and disappointing. I had expected a resolution to the stories but the ending did not offer that at all.

It's ok. Clay is a meditative writer but the book was too slow-paced for my liking.

Ocean Vuong's poetry is beautiful and heartbreaking. "Seventh Circle of Earth" will remain one of my favorite poems ever by a long stretch.