Thursday, September 15, 2016

Sybil by Flora Rheta Schreiber - Book Review

image showing the cover of the book Sybil by Flora Rheta Schreiber


Here is the unbelievable yet true story of Sybil Dorsett, a survivor of terrible childhood abuse who as an adult was a victim of sudden, mysterious blackouts. What happened during those blackouts has made Sybil's experience one of the most famous psychological cases in the world. (Goodreads)


The narrative in Sybil is quite unsettling. The abuse that was supposedly done by the mother is completely appalling. I also found the relationship between Sybil and Dr. Wilber to be troubling. I was aware of the controversy surrounding this case and did my best to avoid focusing on any of the issues that had already been highlighted while reading the book.


However, it was just obvious at certain points in this book that something sinister was going on. I wholeheartedly agree with those who think Dr. Wilber abused the circumstance to further her own interests.


Did Sybil truly suffer from Dissociative Identity Disorder? I don't think that is the case. However, I do feel that she was a profoundly troubled individual who needed both assistance and attention (I also do believe that DID is a very real condition).


The novel was genuinely well written despite everything else. The fact that so many people believed every word is a testament to that fact.


Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5


Book Information: Goodreads


Author Information: Goodreads

Saturday, September 10, 2016

Red Velvet: Russian Roulette - Album Review

image showing the album cover art for Russian Roulette by Red Velvet



Russian Roulette is the third mini album released by Korean pop group Red Velvet.

Tracks & Individual Rating:
1. Russian Roulette 4/5
2. Lucky Girl 3/5
3. Bad Dracula 3/5
4. Sunny Afternoon 4/5
5. Fool 2/5
6. Some Love 4/5
7. My Dear 3/5


I have always thought of Red Velvet as the perfect combination of SNSD and f(x). They have almost everything that makes f(x) special with the glossiness of SNSD. For this mini album, they have pushed themselves closer to the f(x) side of the spectrum. However, most of the songs feel like they are lacking an extra spark of something that keeps them from being easily forgettable. 

The vocals are great, but certain members definitely outshine others in a way that is almost distracting. "Some Love" is my favorite track off of this album, but "Sunny Afternoon" and the title song "Russian Roulette" are also very good. Speaking of, the combination of the song and music video for "Russian Roulette" reminded me of Crayon Pop and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, which I thought was pretty cool.



Overall rating: ★★★☆☆ 3.3/5


Listen: Spotify