This association is not arbitrary. Summer, with its long, lazy days and warm, inviting atmosphere, is the perfect time to indulge in the joy of reading. The days are long, allowing for extended reading sessions, and the warm weather encourages a relaxed and comfortable reading environment. The combination of these factors creates a unique opportunity for readers to escape from the pressures of daily life and immerse themselves in the world of literature.
The book is a fascinating exploration of the cultural phenomenon of Shah Rukh Khan, a Bollywood superstar who has captivated audiences for decades. It delves into the complex interplay of economics, politics, and culture, examining how Shah Rukh Khan’s image and persona have been shaped by these forces. Bhattacharya’s analysis is not merely a superficial appreciation of a celebrity.
“Rules of Civility” (2011) by Amor Towles My paperback copy of “Rules of Civility” traveled 7,601 miles with me this June, from one home to another. This was also a gift, one for the start of my junior year — my self-control lasted about three weeks. One July morning on the Northeast Regional 171, I flipped open to the first page and fell headlong into a world that I slowly began to feel nostalgic for, despite never having inhabited it. The book commences on Dec. 31, 1937, as the sights, sounds and smells of the New York New Year swirl around, engulfing the audience in a haze of cigarette smoke and saxophones. Katey Kontent, the protagonist, stands on the cusp of what promises to be an exciting year. As our heroine navigates elite circles and lifestyles, complete with resplendent rivieras, Towles draws the reader into a carefully yet effortlessly crafted narrative that is, quite simply, about living. The book both validates and debunks the eponymous rules of civility, as Katey’s incisive wit breaks through facade and intrigue. The author expertly captures the atmosphere of the time, with writing so captivating that one begins to wonder if all bankers and businessmen could be as interesting as Towles’ characters.
I will add that the experience of reading “Rules of Civility” was complemented by the atmosphere I read it in — the story’s vintage feel seemed right for a seven-hour train journey from Boston to Philadelphia. (I will purposefully ignore any Amtrak slander — to each their own, one of the many lessons a reader can take away from the book.) Those were the two literary highlights from the six books I read in the last three months. What did you read this summer? (No seriously tell me, I need to update my TBR.)
