The Honourable Schoolboy 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.

'The Fountainhead' follows the journey of Howard Roark, an innovative and fiercely individualistic architect, who refuses to conform to traditional architectural styles. As Roark battles societal norms and the expectations of a world that values conformity over creativity, he encounters friendships, rivalries, and romantic entanglements that challenge his ideals. The novel explores themes of individualism versus collectivism, the corrupting influence of society, and the pursuit of personal integrity. Ayn Rand's compelling narrative immerses readers in a philosophical debate about the nature of success and the cost of true artistry. Will Roark's unwavering commitment to his vision lead to triumph, or will it ultimately bring him to his knees?

In 'What We See When We Read', Peter Mendelsund invites readers to explore the intricate dance between text and imagination. This thought-provoking examination delves into how words conjure vivid images in our minds, shaping our perception of literature. Through an array of visual interpretations, Mendelsund challenges us to consider the deeply personal nature of reading. Each chapter teases apart the connection between language and imagery, suggesting that every reader's experience is uniquely their own. Prepare to see familiar stories in an entirely new light and discover the profound impact of reading on our inner worlds.

In 'Parable of the Talents' by Octavia E. Butler, the world is in chaos as societal collapse looms and oppressive regimes rise. Lauren Olamina, a fiercely determined survivor with a vision, seeks to forge a new path grounded in her belief system called Earthseed. As she gathers followers, her journey is fraught with danger, loss, and betrayal, forcing her to confront the darkest aspects of humanity. With breathtaking prose, Butler explores themes of resilience, faith, and the potential for change in dire circumstances. Will Lauren's dream of a better future prevail against overwhelming odds?

In 'Blindness' by José Saramago, an inexplicable epidemic of sudden blindness sweeps through a city, plunging society into chaos. As the afflicted are quarantined, the veneer of civilization quickly deteriorates, revealing humanity's darker instincts. A small group of individuals struggles to survive and maintain their humanity amid brutality and despair. Through poignant observations, Saramago explores themes of societal collapse, moral ambiguity, and the fragility of sight—both literal and metaphorical. This hauntingly profound narrative leaves readers questioning what it truly means to see.

In 'The Journalist and the Murderer', Janet Malcolm explores the complex relationship between truth and storytelling in the world of journalism. The book delves into the chilling case of a convicted murderer who forms a bond with a reporter seeking to uncover his story. Malcolm artfully questions the ethical boundaries of reporting and the moral responsibilities of journalists. As the narrative unfolds, the lines blur between the storyteller and the subject, raising unsettling questions about trust and betrayal. This thought-provoking work challenges readers to reconsider the motives behind every story and the price of honesty.

In 'The Customer Rules', former Disney executive Lee Cockerell unveils transformative principles that can elevate any business's customer service. With engaging anecdotes and actionable strategies, he emphasizes the importance of creating a memorable experience for every customer. Cockerell's insights challenge traditional notions of service and empower employees to take charge of their impact on customers. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to distinguish themselves in a competitive market. Discover how small changes in mindset and practice can lead to extraordinary results!

In 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt, a group of elite college students become enmeshed in a world of intellectual pursuit and moral ambiguity. Drawn together by their profound appreciation for classical literature, their camaraderie soon spirals into obsession. A shocking betrayal unravels their seemingly perfect lives, leading to a dark twist of fate that questions the very nature of friendship and integrity. Rich in psychological depth and unsettling intrigue, the narrative explores the costs of beauty and the dangerous allure of secrets. As the layers of deception peel away, readers are left to ponder what lengths one might go to protect the truth.