Hot Milk by Deborah Levy

Hot Milk follows Sofia and her mother, Rose, as they travel to Spain where they will see a new doctor who will hopefully be able to finally explain Rose's seemingly incurable illness.

Levy's writing provides deep insights into human nature and in this book she allows us into the mess that is Sofia's life. While in Spain, moving strangely as if in a haze through the hot, muggy landscape, she must navigate her depressing relationship with her dependent mother, all while encountering new people who also demand her attention.

This is a story, sure. But it is not light reading. Levy has drawn her characters and their every action with purpose, pointing readers to what underlies their motivations, insecurities and messiness.

The Vegetarian by Han Kang

The Vegetarian falls into my "words as art" list of books, where the ideas presented are more important than what is actually happening in the story.

Translated from Korean, this book uses stark, beautiful imagery to capture how one woman's decision to stop eating meat effects those around her in devastating ways.

Admittedly, I think I missed some of the things Kang wanted me to see and understand. I closed the book feeling like I had experienced something profound but unable to express to my husband exactly what it was.  It certainly made me think about our bodies and what makes them beautiful/repulsive, both to ourselves and others.  I saw how our decisions can damage others, but also how our inability to express deep emotions can be more damaging still.

This was an intense examination of passion and commitment to what we believe we must do to survive.

The High Mountains of Portugal by Yann Martel

Yann Martel is best known for his novel Life of Pi. It was such a delight it was even made into a movie. Should it be made into a film, The High Mountains of Portugal would make viewers crazy. That, or offer a director amazing artistic opportunity. I feel like something about this book rang the same sort of bells the movie Holy Motors did for me. If you haven't yet seen this film, strap on your crazy boots before you do - and hold on for the ride.

I digress....

There are three distinct stories in The High Mountains of Portugal with each having a similar themes of beauty, finding meaning and identity. It took me awhile to get into the story since it is told in a simple, stark way. But once I adapted to the rhythm, I was hooked into seeing what Yann wanted me to see. Without spoilers, I loved the religious overtones found in everyday experiences and the depth of insight into the human condition.

This is not a light read. This is not fluff to quickly eat before moving on to another course. It is, however, very much a love story.