To be honest, I expected BIG things from Maile Meloy's "Both Ways Is The Only Way I Want It" -- because before I got to know the author, I was exposed to all kinds of excellent reviews which appeared in a number of well-respected publications. So, when "Both Ways" was chosen to lead the 2009 list of "Best Books of The Year" in The New York Times -- I thought to myself: I have to HAVE it! Nevertheless, with me living halfway across the globe (Indonesia) -- purchasing this book took quite a bit of time. And, I have to say, it was worth the wait. If I had had to wait some more, I would have done it in a heartbeat. Something this good doesn't come often; when it does, you have to celebrate it.

Maile Meloy is the kind of story teller who takes you out on a ride. She doesn't paint pretty pictures, nor does she blackmail you, emotionally, into liking the pictures you eventually imagine yourself. The 11 stories contained in "Both Ways" won't change your life; they won't even change the way you see the world. At least, not right away. These aren't those kinds of stories. These are the kinds of stories that take its time creeping up on you. They don't shock or transform; and instead, they raid your subconscious, nibble at it ever so slowly.

I won't tell you what they're about, because I don't want to risk spoiling the best part of this book. But I WILL tell you that ... as soon as you finish this collection, let the message sink in first before you pick up another book. Give yourself some space to process the 11 lives you had just witnessed, or lived through "Both Ways". And then ... rediscover your life. It's not beautiful; but "Both Ways" is THAT powerful.

I am definitely a fan of Maile Meloy.


Have a great read!