There But For The 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 'Perfumes', Luca Turin takes readers on an aromatic journey through the fascinating world of fragrance. He blends science, history, and sensory experience to reveal the hidden complexities of perfume creation and appreciation. Turin's unique perspective elevates scent from mere luxury to an art form, inviting readers to reconsider their relationship with fragrance. With vivid descriptions and insightful anecdotes, he explores the emotional and cultural significance of perfumes across different societies. This is not just a book for fragrance lovers; it's an enchanting exploration that will intrigue anyone curious about the invisible artistry that enhances our lives.

In 'How Will You Measure Your Life?', renowned scholar Clayton M. Christensen invites readers on a profound journey of self-discovery, urging them to contemplate what truly matters in life. Blending personal anecdotes with powerful business insights, he challenges conventional success metrics, emphasizing the importance of relationships, fulfillment, and ethical choices. Readers are prompted to take a hard look at their values and priorities, exploring how to create a life of meaning and impact. The book serves as a guide to navigating life's complexities with purpose, encouraging thoughtful reflection on legacy and happiness. This compelling read offers not just strategies for achieving success, but a blueprint for living a life worth measuring.

In 'Cooked', Michael Pollan embarks on a captivating journey into the art of cooking, exploring the transformational power of food. He unpacks the four elemental cooking techniques: fire, water, air, and earth, revealing how they connect us to the world and ourselves. Each chapter immerses readers in the sensory delights and cultural significance of cooking, from barbecuing to baking. Pollan's exploration is not just about recipes, but about understanding food's role in our lives and health. Join him as he challenges you to reconsider what you eat and how it shapes your experience of the world.

In 'Iraq + 100', a diverse collection of speculative tales emerges from the minds of Iraqi authors, envisioning a future that transcends war and conflict. This anthology showcases a blend of vivid imagination and cultural reflection, challenging readers to rethink the narratives surrounding Iraq. Through the lens of science fiction and fantastical realism, the authors paint a complex portrait of resilience and hope amidst adversity. As each story unfolds, the fabric of Iraqi identity is reexamined, revealing both the scars of history and dreams of possibility. Prepare to be transported to a world where the power of storytelling reigns supreme and the future awaits!

In a world where social media reigns, "Girl Gone Viral" follows the story of a teenage girl whose life spirals when her private video gets leaked online. As she grapples with the fallout of sudden internet fame, secrets surface that challenge her identity and relationships. With a blend of humor and heart, Ahmadi explores the impact of technology on personal lives. Can she reclaim her narrative amidst the chaos? This gripping tale will leave readers questioning the true cost of being seen and the power of vulnerability.

In 'Happier,' Tal Ben-Shahar unveils the science behind happiness, blending ancient wisdom with modern psychology. He presents actionable strategies to cultivate daily joy and achieve lasting fulfillment. With insights drawn from personal anecdotes and empirical research, readers are invited to rethink their definitions of success and happiness. This transformative guide encourages self-reflection and practical exercises to foster a more satisfying life. Discover how small, intentional changes can lead to profound shifts in your overall well-being.

In 'Beyond Band of Brothers', Dick Winters and Cole C. Kingseed unveil the gripping true stories behind the legendary Easy Company of World War II. This compelling narrative extends beyond battlefield heroics, delving into the personal sacrifices and leadership lessons that shaped these soldiers' lives. Through intimate accounts and profound reflections, readers will witness the indomitable spirit that forged camaraderie amidst chaos. Discover how the bonds formed in combat transcended the war, influencing generations to come. Join Winters on a poignant journey that highlights not just the valor of a brotherhood, but the enduring legacies of friendship and integrity.