The Rum Diary 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.

'Judgment in Managerial Decision Making' delves into the psychology behind how managers make decisions, often influenced by cognitive biases and errors. Bazerman and Moore reveal the surprising ways these biases can lead to poor outcomes, even among experienced leaders. With compelling real-world examples, the authors illustrate practical strategies to improve decision-making processes. This book challenges readers to recognize their own psychological blind spots. Dive into this insightful exploration and transform the way you approach critical decisions in your professional life!

In 'Writing Movies for Fun and Profit,' Thomas Lennon and Robert Ben Garant share their insider secrets from their successful careers as Hollywood screenwriters. This engaging guide demystifies the screenwriting process, revealing tips and tricks to craft compelling stories that can grab the attention of producers. With a blend of humor and practical advice, the authors illustrate how to balance creativity with commercial viability. Readers will learn not just how to write, but how to get paid for it, making this both an informative and entertaining read. Whether you're a budding writer or a seasoned pro, this book promises to inspire and equip you to navigate the unpredictable world of movie writing.

Dive into the phenomenon of Facebook through David Kirkpatrick's eye-opening narrative. This engaging exploration unveils how a simple college project transformed into a global communication powerhouse. Discover the fascinating characters behind its creation and the challenges they faced along the way. Kirkpatrick delves into the societal impact of social media, raising questions about privacy, identity, and connection in a digital age. Prepare to be intrigued by the force that changed how we interact forever!

In 'Irresistible', Adam Alter reveals the compelling forces behind our obsession with technology and the addictive nature of modern distractions. He uncovers how these influences manipulate our behaviors, often leading us to make choices we later regret. As he dissects the psychology of addiction, Alter offers eye-opening insights that question our relationship with screens and social media. This book isn’t just about technology; it’s a wake-up call to reclaim our attention and prioritize what truly matters. Prepare to rethink your daily habits and discover the keys to enjoying a more fulfilling life.

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.

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.

In 'The Devil in the White City,' Erik Larson intertwines the captivating story of the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago with the chilling tale of a serial killer who exploits the city's excitement. As the fair dazzles millions with its architectural wonders and innovations, darkness lurks in its shadows. The narrative paints a vivid picture of ambition, obsession, and the contrasting duality of human nature. Readers will grapple with the intertwining fates of genius and monstrosity in a city transformed by both vision and villainy. This gripping historical thriller leaves you questioning how the brightest lights can cast the darkest shadows.