Assignment #2 - Irene Kim - Books

Reading has always been at the top of my new year's resolutions, to-do lists, and summer bucket lists. When I actually make the time to sit down and read a physical book, I often find myself engulfed in the story within a matter of minutes and sometimes finish it in one sitting. However, in the past year I've been lazier with this habit--thus the short list--but I will try to get back into it this year.

The Underneath by Kathi Appelt is a story about an unlikely friendship between a mother calico cat and a stray hound. I remembered reading it for the first time in 6th grade and becoming so immersed in the storyline that I finished it that day, so I decided to pick it up again last winter break. I was astonished by how much I didn't perceive the first time around--although being made for younger readers, the book far surpasses its image of a friendly children's book, instead instilling in the reader a message of trust and camaraderie, as well as life and death. Appelt uses metaphorical language to emphasize the "Underneath," which is quite literally the underside of a porch; however, it also symbolizes the captivity and subjection of the cats against the cruel owner of the porch, Gar-Face, who they eventually have to face and decide which sacrifices are worth making.

The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch is a book my mom recommended to me. Told in first-person, Pausch discusses the contents of his last lecture as a Carnegie Mellon professor. Discovering he had terminal cancer, Pausch uses the opportunity to speak to his then-young children and give them valuable advice. It was interesting to hear so many downplayed clichés ("the truth will set you free," "find a middle ground," etc.) emphasized by someone who was terminally ill, and to put my own concerns in perspective with what's really important in life.

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff by Richard Carlson is more of a life-advice book than anything else. I'm a sucker for a good psychology or philosophy book or podcast, which is why I loved this book so much. Again recommended by my mom, I could really relate to this book considering I tend to be a perfectionistic, emotional stressball. Carlson gives a numerically structured list of advice on how to manage stress and guide a more peaceful mindset. I highly recommend it to anyone of any personality; it's all very relatable and handy to keep for reference.

Despite my lack of commitment to reading this past year, I really hope to get back into the flow of things this year. Please tell me if you have any book suggestions! :)