Sylvie Lee was 9 when she returned home from the Netherlands to her parents and sister in New York City. She, like many children of Chinese immigrants, spent the first third of her life abroad while her parents got their footing in a new country. The dichotomy between her two lives - the before and after - turned Sylvie into somewhat of a loner. Smart, beautiful, and popular, … [Read more...]
‘The Last Romantics’ a Compelling Family-Driven Drama
I'm a sucker for family dramas. There's something about flawed characters with complex relationships that pulls me in every single time. The Last Romantics by Tara Conklin was no different and I raced through the book in three days. I found myself reaching for it when I couldn't sleep at 3 a.m., and again when I woke up in the morning.The Last Romantics is about the four … [Read more...]
Surviving an Abusive Childhood Leaves One Woman a ‘Girl Unbroken’
A couple of years ago, I read a powerfully moving book titled Etched in Sand. It's the story of Regina Calcaterra and the abuses she and her four siblings endured at the hands of their mother and the utter failures of the foster care system. It's a heartbreaking story that is hard to read but also showcases the power of perseverance. In her book, Calcaterra carefully … [Read more...]
How A Spending Fast Will Help You Save Money (Book Review)
Not long ago, I sat down and had a chat with the financial advisor we have access to through work. I've always been wary of financial advisors because they oftentimes give advice based on what will make them money but because ours has a fiduciary responsibility, I decided to see what he had to say. The conversation was a bit worrisome because although I'm on the right track … [Read more...]
Animal Welfare is Smart Business in ‘The Humane Economy’
I'm a vegetarian. I wasn't always and I admit I still miss beef jerky and roast beef, but after reading Eating Animals and The Food Revolution, I knew I couldn't do it anymore. I could give you a list of emotional arguments about why I made this choice but as a fan of the mantra facts, not feelings, I'll encourage you to read The Humane Economy, instead. Because The Humane … [Read more...]