###Takeaways
2021 was by far the best reading year I've ever had, going from a previous high of 30 books read to 100+ this year. The primary catalyst of this was discovering that it was feasible for me to read most of my SFF books in audiobook form, although the pandemic and life situation definitely played roles. This is my first year doing Bingo. Interestingly, the books I picked up specifically to fill a Bingo square all ended up being 3.5 stars or fewer, while the ones I had already on my TBR ended up being 4+. I'll need to re-examine my selection process a bit for next year's Bingo, as I enjoyed finishing my card far more than actually reading the books I've discovered through it. Accomplishment itself has merit and I have diversified my reading more, but hopefully I can find more books that I really enjoy.
The biggest series discoveries for me from the books below were Terra Ignota by Ada Palmer (I loved books 1-2 but was disappointed by 3-4), The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells and The Fire Sacraments by Robert V.S. Redick. I also finally managed to finish Malazan after three years (I disliked Dust of Dreams and loved The Crippled God).
###ROW ONE
Five Short Stories - The Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury (HM) 3★ >This sci-fi collection had a few strong stories, but the rest struggled to stand out. Bradbury’s writing was in a voice distinct to his era, making it feel like Mad Men on Mars. I felt similarly with Asimov’s work, neither of which have quite worked for me.
Set in Asia - The Hand of the Sun King by J.T. Greathouse 4.5★ >A young man gifted with powers from both sides of his heritage attempts to find his own path in a world he doesn’t really understand; one where he may be used by higher powers. Reminded me a bit of Dune in terms of the structure, especially in how victories could be tragedies and vice versa. One of the strongest debuts that I’ve read of late.
A-Z Genre Guide - Stories of Your Life and Others by Ted Chiang (HM) 4.5★ >Both of Chiang’s short story collections have stuck with me and left me thinking afterwards more than any other SFF literature. They’re all really great stories.
Found Family - [*The House in the Ce
... keep reading on reddit ➡
I can’t understand her appeal. Her doe-eyed baby face to the cameras while she completely defames her children’s father and extended family in the most public way and no one thinks this is just a bit wrong? Organizing a tell-all interview of one of the most notable families in the world where she berates every member and follows it up by calling herself the queen of people’s hearts. Many of her accusations during that interview were just speculations rooted in her own insecurities.
Her charitable exploits were nothing but narcissistic PR stunts, can we think about her sitting with a publicist planning her trip to the hospital wondering how many camera men must be there for the moment? Forgive me if I don’t find it so groundbreaking-ly good natured of a woman to comfort a sick child and shed a tear at their helpless situation. Donating 79 of her dresses to charity is the equivalent to any of us commoners donating our clothes and yet it’s celebrated as the most kind hearted gesture that warrants the title of “peoples princess”.
Just exposin the whole family
