The Bookish Ashley

A Gripping Tale of Secrets and Redemption

Twenty Seven Minutes by Ashley Tate is a compelling novel that delves into the aftermath of a tragic car accident and the burden of a long-held secret. With its intriguing premise and well-developed characters, this book manages to keep readers engaged throughout its pages.

The story revolves around Grant Dean, haunted by the question of why he took twenty-seven minutes to call for help after the accident that claimed his sister’s life. The weight of this guilt, combined with a lingering secret, has consumed Grant for a decade. Ashley Tate skillfully captures the inner turmoil and emotional struggle of Grant, allowing readers to empathize with his pain and longing for redemption.

One of the strengths of the novel lies in its exploration of the dynamics between the characters. Becca, the only other person who knows the truth, adds an extra layer of complexity to the narrative. The author skillfully weaves together their shared history, highlighting the complexities of friendship and the power of secrets. Additionally, the introduction of June, a character grappling with her own loss, adds a fresh perspective to the story and raises the stakes for the characters involved.

The pacing of the plot is generally well-maintained, with the suspense building gradually as the anniversary of the accident approaches. The author effectively creates tension by alternating between past and present, slowly revealing the events leading up to the tragic night. However, there are moments when the pacing feels slightly uneven, with certain sections dragging on while others speed ahead. Nevertheless, the overall momentum of the narrative remains intact.

Ashley Tate’s writing style is descriptive and evocative, allowing readers to vividly imagine the small town of West Wilmer and its inhabitants. The author captures the essence of grief, guilt, and longing, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere that resonates with the reader. The dialogue is realistic and engaging, effectively conveying the characters’ emotions and motivations.

In conclusion, Twenty Seven Minutes by Ashley Tate is a captivating novel that skillfully explores the aftermath of tragedy and the power of secrets. With its well-drawn characters, emotional depth, and an intriguing storyline, this book offers an engaging reading experience. Although it has a few minor flaws, it remains a compelling read that will leave readers pondering the weight of guilt, the search for truth, and the possibility of redemption.

Rating: 3.75/5 stars

A Thought-Provoking Guide to Navigating the Digital World

In “My Brain Has Too Many Tabs Open,” Tanya Goodin offers a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of our digital lives on our offline existence. With a focus on recognizing harmful habits and finding a path towards digital balance, this book serves as both a wake-up call and a valuable user’s guide for anyone seeking to regain control over their relationship with technology.

Goodin’s expertise as a digital detox expert shines through as she tackles a range of issues that have become all too familiar in our hyper-connected world. From “phubbing” (when a partner prioritizes scrolling through their phone over genuine communication) to “sharenting” (overexposing children on social media) and even “nomophobia” (the fear of being without one’s phone), she offers a comprehensive toolkit to help readers recognize and address these harmful behaviors.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its diagnostic guides, which enable readers to identify tell-tale signs of problematic digital habits. By providing clear labels and terminology, Goodin empowers readers to better understand and communicate their concerns about the impact of technology on their lives. This conversation-starting vocabulary is essential in fostering a greater awareness of our digital citizenship and promoting more balanced and humane interactions in the online and offline worlds.

The author’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts and ideas easy to grasp. Goodin seamlessly weaves together personal anecdotes, case studies, and research findings to illustrate the pervasive influence of technology on our lives. Her approach is balanced and non-judgmental, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and personal choice in navigating the digital landscape.

The book also serves as a manifesto for improved digital citizenship, encouraging readers to reconsider their relationship with technology and make intentional choices. Goodin doesn’t advocate for a complete disconnection from the digital world but rather promotes finding a healthy balance that aligns with individual needs and values. Her insights and practical advice offer valuable strategies for setting boundaries, managing screen time, and prioritizing meaningful offline experiences.

While “My Brain Has Too Many Tabs Open” is a compelling and informative read, a deeper exploration of the potential consequences of excessive technology use on mental health and relationships could have added even more depth to the book’s message.

In summary, Tanya Goodin’s “My Brain Has Too Many Tabs Open” is a timely and insightful guide for anyone seeking to find digital balance in their lives. With its accessible writing style, diagnostic guides, and a focus on personal choice and improved digital citizenship, this book offers valuable tools for navigating the complexities of our connected world. While it could benefit from improved organization and further exploration of certain topics, it remains an essential read for those looking to understand and untangle their relationship with technology.

Rating: 4/5 stars