Lindsay Blog

-Brida by Paulo Coelho-

I love picking up books on a whim. They’re often my favorites – probably because I don’t have any preconceived notions. For me, it’s often a lot more enjoyable that way. I read the synopsis, know that I’ve liked this author in the past, and want just see where it takes me. This was one of those books. And I love where it took me.

This is a story about a young woman, Brida, who is on a journey to spiritual enlightenment and becoming a witch through magic, wicca, and other traditional pagan means. It’s a beautifully simple story set in Ireland. She meets a wise Magus in the forest and a Witch in a nearby town – they both help her along in her journey. She learns about herself, about love, etc. I don’t want to give away more than that so I won’t say any more about the plot. In fact, there really isn’t much to the plot itself. Again, it’s actually a very short, and simple tale. Not everyone likes that.

If you perfer more “action” and “adventure”, then you may not dig this book. Dan Brown, it is not. I, personally, can really appreciate a book that is more about the ideas behind it than the plot itself. I may seem slow at times … because it is. (in the best sort of way) But really, it’s worth reading if you’re into the ethereal. There are fascinating theories about reincarnation, soul-mates, personal powers and gifts, and human existence itself. When it comes to anything religious, this is the sort of thing that I relate to most easily.

Another interesting thing about Brida is the way Coelho includes a lot of Christian themes. They interlock and weave through the Pagan/Wicca themes. I like that because I often feel that almost all religions have bits and pieces to them that are truly universal and applicable to everyone. I’m not one who relates to Christianity very well, but this novel did it in a very subtle way that makes sense to me.

I guess you just have to read it to see what I mean.

All in all, this is a very good book if you appreciate simple, thoughtful, non-traditional novels. Short and sweet, it was a very relaxing read.

-Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden-

Strangely enough, I picked up this book because I didn’t much like the movie. After seeing the film, I remember thinking that it was beautiful to see and to hear. (it’s still one of my favorite soundtracks to listen to) But when you take away the visuals and the music, the story that it portrays is very lacking. A lot like a soap opera, actually. Didn’t hate it, but wasn’t that impressed.

I just knew that they must have left a lot out of the movie. I was intrigued as to what, so I got the book. And what do you know, I was right! There are so many things that were left untouched. I don’t think movies should or even can be exactly like the book, but there is a limit to what you can do to the story without changing it completely. (aka, ruining it) Whoever did the screenplay for Memoirs of a Geisha seriously missed the point of the book. But hey, that’s just my opinion.

My absolute favorite thing about this book is how believable it all was. I would have believed it to be based on a true story, had Golden not said otherwise. It’s clear that he did extensive research. I wish more authors would do that!

I felt completely immersed in the world of geisha. You learn a lot about the culture, the superstitions, and the life that they led. Some still do? Not sure. It’s all so foreign to me, and this book makes me want to learn more. Incredibly fascinating, even when talking about the less than admirable aspects of being a geisha. (note: they aren’t prostitutes in fancy outfits)

There are a few parts of the book that move a tad slow. I can forgive this, I think. I imagine there would have been some very boring parts of life for a geisha. Sayuri poured tea about a million times and not for herself!

I love learning about other cultures in any way that I can. If you’re the same, I think you’d like this book. It’s PG13; just a warning for anyone of a more… delicate nature. Heh heh, unlike myself!