Book Review: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

Things Fall Apart is a novel written by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe,

first published in 1958. The book tells the story of Okonkwo, a warrior and
leader in the Igbo tribe in Nigeria. Set during the late 19th century, the novel
explores the impact of European colonialism on traditional African society.

The novel is divided into three parts, each focusing on different aspects
of Okonkwo's life. In Part One, we see Okonkwo as a respected member of his
village, with multiple wives and children. However, he is also known for his
temper and violent tendencies. He fears weakness above all else and strives to
be seen as strong and powerful.

In Part Two, European missionaries arrive in the village and begin to

convert some of its members to Christianity. Okonkwo sees this as a threat to
his way of life and attempts to resist it through force. However, his violent
actions ultimately lead to his exile from the village.

Part Three takes place after Okonkwo returns from exile to find that
things have changed dramatically in the village since he left. The Europeans
have taken over much of the land and imposed their own laws and customs on
the people. Okonkwo struggles to come to terms with these changes and
ultimately meets a tragic end.

Overall, Things Fall Apart is a powerful exploration of what happens

when two vastly different cultures collide. Achebe's writing is both vivid and
compelling, drawing readers into Okonkwo's world and showing us how
colonialism impacted traditional African societies.
 Book Review: Ice Breaker by Hannah Grace

Ice Breaker is a young adult novel written by Hannah Grace, first

published in 2021. The book tells the story of Ruby McMillan, a teenage girl
who moves with her family from California to Alaska following her father's
death. The novel explores Ruby's struggles to adapt to her new life and come to
terms with the loss of her father.

The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on different aspects
of Ruby's journey. In Part One, we see Ruby struggling to adjust to life in
Alaska. She misses her friends and the warm California weather, and feels
isolated and alone in her new home. However, she soon meets a group of other
teens who are also struggling with their own issues.

In Part Two, we see Ruby beginning to open up more about her feelings
and experiences. She forms closer bonds with her new friends and begins to
explore some of the natural beauty that Alaska has to offer. At the same time,
she also grapples with difficult questions about her father's death and what it
means for her future.

Part Three takes place during a winter storm that leaves Ruby and her
friends stranded without power or heat. This experience forces them all to
confront their deepest fears and insecurities, ultimately bringing them closer
together as a group.

Overall, Ice Breaker is a touching coming-of-age story that explores

themes of grief, friendship, and resilience. Grace's writing is both honest and
heartfelt, capturing the emotions of teenage life with sensitivity and depth.
Readers will find themselves rooting for Ruby as she navigates the challenges
of growing up in a new place while learning how to heal from past traumas.