Open Water Book Summary

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.

In 'The Circle' by Laura Day, a mysterious group of women unites under the shadow of powerful secrets and shared destinies. As they navigate the tumultuous waters of emotional connections and psychic abilities, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways. Each member faces personal trials that tilt the balance between empowerment and chaos. With every revelation, the stakes rise, pushing them toward an explosive confrontation with their deepest fears. Will they emerge transformed or fall prey to the darkness lurking within themselves?

No summary available

In 'What Is Zen?', Norman Fischer and Susan Moon unravel the intricate philosophy of Zen Buddhism, inviting readers into a contemplative journey of self-discovery. The authors blend personal anecdotes with profound insights, making ancient teachings accessible to modern seekers. Through engaging dialogues and reflective exercises, they challenge our preconceived notions of mindfulness and presence. This book promises not just answers, but a path to greater awareness and tranquility. Dive into this exploration of Zen and unlock the secrets to living with intention and peace.

In 'Alone Against the North', adventurer Adam Shoalts ventures into the unforgiving Canadian wilderness, driven by a desire for exploration and solitude. Facing treacherous terrain, unpredictable weather, and the lurking danger of wildlife, he embarks on a quest that tests both his physical limits and mental resilience. With each step deeper into the wild, Shoalts uncovers the harsh beauty of nature but also confronts the shadows of isolation. This gripping narrative paints a vivid picture of humanity's struggle against nature's vastness, stirring deep reflections on adventure, survival, and self-discovery. Will he prevail in his quest, or will the North claim another solitary soul?

'Slaughterhouse-Five' follows the unconventional journey of Billy Pilgrim, a soldier who becomes 'unstuck in time' and experiences moments from his life out of sequence. As he navigates through the horrors of World War II, including the firebombing of Dresden, the narrative intertwines elements of science fiction and anti-war sentiment. Vonnegut's unique blend of dark humor and poignant commentary challenges the nature of free will and the chaos of war. Will Billy ever come to terms with his fragmented existence and the absurdity of human conflict? Join him on a mind-bending odyssey that questions reality and morality.

In 'Hardcore History', Dan Carlin takes listeners on an epic auditory journey through the annals of human conflict, exploring the profound impact of war on civilization. His vivid storytelling and deep analysis breathe life into historical events, making even the most distant eras feel immediate and relevant. With a unique blend of passion and intellect, Carlin challenges conventional narratives, urging us to question what we think we know about our past. Each episode transforms history into a gripping tale of human drama, complete with the moral dilemmas faced by our ancestors. Prepare to rethink history as you uncover the haunting truths hidden in the echoes of time.

In 'Amaze Every Customer Every Time,' Shep Hyken reveals the secrets to consistently wow customers and transform ordinary interactions into memorable experiences. With a blend of practical advice and compelling anecdotes, Hyken explores the core principles of customer service excellence. Readers are invited to rethink their approach, embrace a culture of amazement, and implement strategies that ensure every customer feels valued and appreciated. This book is not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them in ways that leave a lasting impression. Discover how to create raving fans and elevate your business through the power of exceptional service.