Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 6

Fiction Friday: On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong

 

Title: On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous

By: Ocean Vuong

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 246

Release Date: June 4th, 2019 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous is a letter from a son to a mother who cannot read. Written when the speaker, Little Dog, is in his late twenties, the letter unearths a family's history that began before he was born — a history whose epicenter is rooted in Vietnam — and serves as a doorway into parts of his life his mother has never known, all of it leading to an unforgettable revelation. At once a witness to the fraught yet undeniable love between a single mother and her son, it is also a brutally honest exploration of race, class, and masculinity. Asking questions central to our American moment, immersed as we are in addiction, violence, and trauma, but undergirded by compassion and tenderness, On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous is as much about the power of telling one's own story as it is about the obliterating silence of not being heard.
With stunning urgency and grace, Ocean Vuong writes of people caught between disparate worlds, and asks how we heal and rescue one another without forsaking who we are. The question of how to survive, and how to make of it a kind of joy, powers the most important debut novel of many years.

 

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Review:On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong was a book club pick that completely surprised me. It’s not something I would have chosen on my own, but wow, what an emotional journey. Vuong’s writing is poetic and tender, making you feel safe even as the story dives into deep and sometimes painful places. I listened to the audiobook narrated by the author, and that added a whole new layer of meaning, like hearing the most beautiful poem come to life. Truly a powerful and unforgettable read.

Re-read Thursday: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

Title: We Were Liars

By: E. Lockhart

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 320

Release Date: May 13th, 2014 

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A beautiful and distinguished family.A private island.A brilliant, damaged girl; a passionate, political boy.A group of four friends—the Liars—whose friendship turns destructive.A revolution. An accident. A secret.Lies upon lies.True love.The truth.
We Were Liars is a modern, sophisticated suspense novel from New York Times bestselling author, National Book Award finalist, and Printz Award honoree E. Lockhart.
Read it.
And if anyone asks you how it ends, just LIE.

 

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Review:We Were Liars by E. Lockhart was a reread for me, and I’m glad I gave it another chance. The first time I tried, I stopped around 30%, but this time I stuck with it, and it paid off. The story is mysterious and deeply sad, with a twist that completely broke my heart. Lockhart skillfully weaves subtle clues throughout the narrative that hint at the big reveal, yet nothing truly prepares you for the emotional journey. A haunting and beautifully crafted read.

Book Review: Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Title: Project Hail Mary

By: Andy Weir

Genre: Scifi

Pages: 482

Release Date: May 4th, 2021 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:A lone astronaut.
An impossible mission.
An ally he never imagined.

Ryland Grace is the sole survivor on a desperate, last-chance mission - and if he fails, humanity and the earth itself will perish.

Except that right now, he doesn't know that. He can't even remember his own name, let alone the nature of his assignment or how to complete it.

All he knows is that he's been asleep for a very, very long time. And he's just been awakened to find himself millions of miles from home, with nothing but two corpses for company.

His crewmates dead, his memories fuzzily returning, Ryland realizes that an impossible task now confronts him. Hurtling through space on this tiny ship, it's up to him to puzzle out an impossible scientific mystery-and conquer an extinction-level threat to our species.

And with the clock ticking down and the nearest human being light-years away, he's got to do it all alone.

Or does he?

 

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Review:Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir completely blew me away. It’s not the kind of book I usually pick up, but after hearing so much buzz, I had to see what the hype was about, and I’m so glad I did. This story is both hilarious and heart wrenching, with a main character you can’t help but root for. The alternating timelines between past and present were surprisingly easy to follow, even though that style usually throws me off. And let’s talk about the aliens. What a wild, unexpected, and deeply emotional twist. The science is incredibly detailed but explained in such a clear and engaging way that it feels effortless. An incredible, unforgettable read. I can’t wait to see how they bring it to life on screen.

ARC Review: The Dragon Wakes with Thunder by K.X. Song

 

Title: The Dragon Wakes with Thunder

By: K.X. Song

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 445

Release Date: August 19th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A young woman who wields the unimaginable power of a dragon spirit must decide where her loyalties lie—and where her heart belongs—in this enthralling fantasy that reimagines the legend of Mulan.
The explosive sequel to The Night Ends with Fire!
The war may be over, but Hai Meilin is still paying a heavy toll. In spite of securing victory for the kingdom of Anlai, she is imprisoned upon her return. Her crime? Wielding a sword as a woman.
In the palace, Meilin is an outcast and a social pariah. But beyond the imperial walls, the legend of the woman warrior has taken on a life of its own. To the east, a new rebel leader needs Meilin to helm his people’s revolution. In the south, a former enemy prince, now a prisoner of war, seeks Meilin’s aid in restoring balance to the Three Kingdoms. And back home in Anlai, Liu Sky, Meilin’s commander and first love, requires Meilin by his side in his bid for the throne.
Pulled in all directions by those who seek to use her for their own ends, Meilin vows that this time, she will not be so quick to trust. Yet there is one she cannot help but listen to—for he dwells within her.
Beyond any human machinations, the sea dragon Qinglong has his own plans for the spirit realm. During the last war, Meilin wielded his power to cheat death and attain victory for Anlai; now the dragon has come to collect his dues. Meilin’s mother warned her long The spirits demand blood. And Qinglong is ravenous.

 

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Review:The Dragon Wakes with Thunder by K.X. Song was well worth the wait. Mailin’s journey in this installment is intense and emotional. She’s both power and pain wrapped in one compelling character. Everyone around her seems to want a piece of that power, and the constant manipulation takes a toll. At times, her descent into chaos feels raw and unhinged, but it only makes her final path all the more satisfying. A gripping continuation full of heart, struggle, and strength.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. 

Weekly Menu #621 And The Book Of The Week

 

This week’s vacation menu is all about keeping meals fun, flavorful, and protein packed. Think sizzling grills, bright flavors, and easy dishes that still feel special enough for a week away from the ordinary. From island inspired jerk chicken to cozy comfort foods like roast chicken and mashed potatoes, every day has a little something to keep the kitchen stress free and the plates satisfying.
And of course, no vacation week would be complete without a good book. This week I’m diving into A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout. It’s a romantic fantasy filled with intrigue, mythology, and powerful characters that pull you right into their world. Perfect for pairing with a plate of barbecue ribs or a breezy afternoon by the pool, it’s shaping up to be a read that keeps me hooked long after dinner is done.
WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Island Vibes

Grilled jerk chicken with coconut rice & black beans

Kids - Chicken and Rice

 

Tuesday

Italian Escape

Chicken parmesan with whole wheat pasta & roasted zucchini

Kids - Mac and Cheese

 

Wednesday

Mexican Fiesta

Carne asada with grilled corn & cilantro-lime cauliflower rice

Kids - Cheese Quesadillas

 

Thursday

American BBQ

BBQ ribs with roasted sweet potatoes & green beans

Kids - Grilled Chicken and Carrot Sticks

 

Friday

Greek Getaway

Lemon herb grilled chicken with orzo & roasted veggies

Kids - Greek Yogurt and Cheesy Orzo

 

Saturday

Asian-Inspired

Korean-style bulgogi beef with jasmine rice & kimchi

Kids - Beef Ramen Stir Fry

 

Sunday

Comfort Food Sunday

Leftovers Night

Sunday Confessions #318

 

It’s that time again. Sunday Book Confessions, where I spill the bookish tea on what I’ve been reading, loving, and occasionally side eyeing this week. Some reads have swept me off my feet, others have made me question my life choices, and a few have left me wondering if I need a literary palate cleanser. From swoon worthy plots to head scratching twists, this week’s reading stack was anything but boring.

Sunday Confessions #317~Weekly Menu #620 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: Hemlock & Silver by T. Kingfisher~Book Review: Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu~What Are you Reading: The Lathe of Heaven by Ursala K. Le Guin~Fantasy Friday: Predator's Gold by Philip Reeves

Weekly Menu #621 And The Book Of The Week~
ARC Review: The Dragon Wakes with Thunder by K.X. Song~Book Review: Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir~Re-read Thursday: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart~Fiction Friday: On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong~ Sunday Confessions #319

Well, this is awkward... I finished my TBR this week.




★★★★☆

The Truce at Bakura picks up right after the events of Return of the Jedi, and Kathy Tyers does a great job maintaining the momentum. The pacing is tight, the stakes feel real, and the character development, especially for Leia and Luke, adds emotional depth. One of my favorite touches was Anakin’s occasional appearances as a Force spirit, which added an unexpected layer of complexity and tension. While not a perfect entry, it’s a compelling and satisfying bridge between the films and the expanded universe.

257/100 2025 Reading Challenge~109/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~18/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

And that wraps up another week of literary highs, lows, and everything in between. Whether you’re nodding along with my raves or shaking your head at my rants, I hope you found a new book to add to your TBR, or one to happily avoid. Until next Sunday, may your plot twists be satisfying, your characters unforgettable, and your reading time uninterrupted.

Fantasy Friday: Predator's Gold by Philip Reeves

 

Title: Predator's Gold

By: Philip Reeve

Genre: Dystopian

Pages: 352

Release Date: September 19th, 2003

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:After their airship is attacked by the Green Storm, Tom and Hester find themselves in the icy city of Anchorage and now have to fight their way out of the plaque-infested city filled with thieves and savages before the Huntsman of Arkangel makes his next appearance in this dramatic sequel to Mortal Engines. 

 

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Review:Predator's Gold by Philip Reeve was a thrilling return to a world I hadn’t visited in a while, but everything quickly came back as I dived into this wild ride. The world building is fantastic, rich with detail, and the characters are deep, unique, and powerful. The story kept me hooked with its fun and exciting pace, even when things got a little crazy. Especially with those “zombies” that weren’t really zombies. The plot twist was great and added an extra layer of surprise. Loved every minute of it!

What Are you Reading: The Lathe of Heaven by Ursala K. Le Guin

 

The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin is one of those books that pulls you in just by watching someone else get lost in its pages. I picked it up after a “Whatcha Reading?” moment, and I’m so glad I did. The premise is both mind bending and beautifully executed. A journey through dreams that reshape reality in ways both profound and unsettling. I was completely captivated, constantly wondering if the world would ever return to what it once was. A stunning, thought provoking read that lingers long after the final page.

Book Review: Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu

 

Title: Interior Chinatown

By: Charles Yu

Genre: Fiction 

Pages: 228

Release Date: January 28th, 2020

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A deeply personal novel about race, pop culture, immigration, assimilation, and escaping the roles we are forced to play.
Willis Wu doesn’t perceive himself as the protagonist in his own life: he’s merely Generic Asian Man. Sometimes he gets to be Background Oriental Making a Weird Face or even Disgraced Son, but always he is relegated to a prop. Yet every day, he leaves his tiny room in a Chinatown SRO and enters the Golden Palace restaurant, where Black and White, a procedural cop show, is in perpetual production. He’s a bit player here, too, but he dreams of being Kung Fu Guy—the most respected role that anyone who looks like him can attain. Or is it?
After stumbling into the spotlight, Willis finds himself launched into a wider world than he’s ever known, discovering not only the secret history of Chinatown, but the buried legacy of his own family. Infinitely inventive and deeply personal, exploring the themes of pop culture, assimilation, and immigration—Interior Chinatown is Charles Yu’s most moving, daring, and masterful novel yet.

 

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Review:Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu is a thought provoking and creatively told story that truly stands out. The author’s unique narrative style, structured like a screenplay, adds depth and meaning to the themes of identity, race, and representation. I found myself drawn in by the originality and emotional resonance. It’s smart, sharp, and surprisingly moving. A powerful and memorable read.

ARC Review: Hemlock & Silver by T. Kingfisher

 

Title: Hemlock & Silver

By: T. Kingfisher

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 368

Release Date: August 19th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award-winning author T. Kingfisher comes Hemlock & Silver, a dark reimagining of “Snow White” steeped in poison, intrigue, and treason of the most magical kind.
Healer Anja regularly drinks poison.
Not to die, but to save— seeking cures for those everyone else has given up on.
But a summons from the King interrupts her quiet, herb-obsessed life. His daughter, Snow, is dying, and he hopes Anja’s unorthodox methods can save her.
Aided by a taciturn guard, a narcissistic cat, and a passion for the scientific method, Anja rushes to treat Snow, but nothing seems to work. That is, until she finds a secret world, hidden inside a magic mirror. This dark realm may hold the key to what is making Snow sick.
Or it might be the thing that kills them all.

 

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Review:Hemlock & Silver by T. Kingfisher is a beautifully dark and captivating retelling of Snow White. The opening felt familiar, like a half remembered fairy tale, which only added to the haunting atmosphere. I loved the direction the author took with this story, twisting the classic elements into something fresh, eerie, and utterly engaging. Kingfisher’s storytelling is rich and immersive, and the darker tone gave this retelling real depth. A must read for fans of gothic fantasy and fairy tale reimaginings.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.