Recent Reads | Vol. 7 | Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine and Parable of the Sower

Happy Sunday! Today I'm sharing two recent reads: Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine and Parable of the Sower. Read on to hear my thoughts:

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Eleanor Oliphant lives a quiet, isolated life shaped by strict routines and emotional distance. After an unexpected friendship at work disrupts her solitude, she begins confronting her painful past and discovers the healing power of trust, connection, and self-acceptance.

I really enjoyed this novel and found the plot to be very unique and interesting. The story has some funny moments, but also explores some very dark heart-breaking themes. Its main theme of loneliness is central to the novel, highlighting the effects of trauma and social isolation. The novel's first-person narration allows readers to experience Eleanor's perspective and really captures her emotions. A very unique, memorable read!

4.5/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 💫

Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

Parable of the Sower is a dystopian novel by Octavia Butler published in 1993. It is set in a post-apocalyptic Earth that has been greatly affected by climate change and social inequality. It follows a young girl called Lauren, who, after her community is destroyed, is forced to survive in a world filled with danger. 

I've read and watched quite a few dystopian books and films lately. Considering this book was written in 1993 (set in the years 2024 – 2027), it is creepy how much it mirrors modern day society. The first half of the book focuses on life inside of Lauren's gated community, and is a little slower in pace, but the pacing really picked up in the second half when Lauren is out surviving in the world. Overall, I found this book to be thought-provoking and the world-building felt frighteningly believable. A great dystopian read. 

4.5/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 💫