My Favourite Christmas Carol

 During these times of social distancing, singing carols via Meet may be the only alternative. I've always liked this song and I hope you like it too!

 

Love in Translation by Wendy Nelson Tokunaga: a book and a song

 

A really fun and at the same time interesting read for these times. I loved that the author included lots of Japanese words and expressions. If you are a fan of Japanese culture and want to read a story that takes place in modern Japan which includes references to traditional customs, food, karaoke and love, this book is for you.

You cannot miss this video in which Wendy Nelson sings the beautiful song that appears in the book.

Magpie Muders by Anthony Horowitz: opinion.

Everybody says so and it's absolutely true, this book is for fans of Agatha Christie, for those of us who miss classic mysteries and Hercule Poirot. It also has something else which usually appeals to readers, a book within a book. I must say though, that I liked much more the novel inside that the other one although both of them combined perfectly.
This was my first book by Anthony Horowitz and it won't be the last one.

What I know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey: review.

I think this is a really good book to read in these times of uncertainty. It is divided into eight parts: Resilience, Connection, Gratitude, Possibility, Awe, Clarity and Power. In each part, Oprah gives insights on how to enjoy the present moment, overcome difficulties and live a better life.

Many people may argue that from her position as a powerful woman it's quite easy to give advice, however, she didn't get there overnight and she certainly had to overcome many obstacles.

I found the book full of hope and simple but useful pieces of advice. My favourite quotes are:

When you choose to see the world as a classroom, you understand that all experiences are here to teach you something about yourself.

As women we've been programmed to sacrifice everything in the name of what is good and right for everyone else. Then if there's an inch left over, maybe we can have a piece of that. We need to reprogram ourselves.

She also mentions several times in her novel the importance of gratitude and the need to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

I highly recommend this book to everyone who is in need of some encouraging words because Oprah's words will certainly make you feel at least a little bit better.