Bicara Buku

  Tajuk: Nurul Hidayah Penulis: Hasan Ali Penerbit: DBP, Kuala Lumpur Tahun diterbitkan: 2010 422 halaman Dari kulit muka belakang: Mengisahkan perjuangan gigih seorang eksekutif (akauntan) yang bernama Mahfuz dalam cita-citanya untuk menerapkan nilai-nilai Islam dalam bidang perniagaan yang diceburinya. Mahfuz, suatu ketika ditugaskan bersama Lim untuk menyelongkar dan menyiasat skandal penyelewengan di sebuah institusi kewangan sehingga berjaya mengesan mereka yang melakukan jenayah terkutuk dalam sejarah kewangan di negara ini. Kejayaannya membongkar skandal penyelewengan itu mendorongnya membuka firma agensi pelancongan dan membuka sebuah anak syarikat bernama Nurul Hidayah yang menjalankan perniagaan import-eksport barang-barang keluaran tempatan untuk diedar dan dipasarkan ke pasaran antarabangsa. Nurul Hidayah, sebuah novel yang menyentuh dan membicarakan persoalan semasa iaitu, skandal penyelewengan di sebuah bank, penerapan nilai-nilai Islam dalam kehidupan masa kini, pengliba

  Title: War Author: Janne Teller Publisher: Simon & Schuster, London Year published: 2016 63 pages A thought-provoking short novel that explores the brutal realities of war from a deeply personal perspective.  The book is structured as a fictional letter addressed to a Danish teenager, urging the reader to imagine what life would be like if Denmark were suddenly plunged into war.  It challenges readers to consider how they would cope with the chaos, loss of home, family, and identity.  By reversing the roles and placing Europe as the war-torn region, it forces readers to empathize with refugees and the displaced, offering a powerful commentary on the human cost of conflict and the fragility of peace.

  Tajuk: Burung Badai (Antologi Cerpen) Penulis: Arena Wati Penerbit: Pustaka Antara, Kuala Lumpur Tahun diterbitkan: 1990 150 halaman Dari kulit muka belakang: Aku dari masyarakat tani dan nelayan yang diperas, lahir dari keluarga pelaut dan pedagang kecil yang tertindas, diasuh oleh ibu bapa dalam negara yang dijajah, dan dalam usia remaja yang masih hijau dalam segala hal, terlempar ke tengah dunia yang dibakar perang. Aku rebut hidup dari ombak ke ombak kesengsaraan, kuisi dada dari badai ke badai penderitaan, terbang dengan  sayap kepercayaan diri sendiri dengan bulu kemiskinan, dalam lindungan tuhanku pengasih. Aku sudah mendengar, melihat, mengalami, merasakan dan memikirkan. Maka dengan segala kerendahan dan  keikhlasan hati, aku ungkapkan kata pencerminan dari diri sendiri dengan dada terbuka, berhadapan dengan seluruh  pengalaman yang ku-KATA-kan, sebagai keharusan, berdialog kepada hidup yang setiap saat mencabar kehadiranku.

Title:  Garibaldi and the Making of Italy Author: George Macaulay Trevelyan Librivox Audiobook app  Read by Kirksvoice  (11hr 32m) Started listening: 14 May 2024 This book offers a compelling account of the Italian unification, focusing on Giuseppe Garibaldi's crucial role in this historic process.  The book vividly portrays Garibaldi’s military campaigns from Sicily to Naples and their impact on the fall of the Bourbon monarchy. Trevelyan’s narrative is engaging and well-researched, drawing on primary sources to provide an authentic depiction of events.  While his admiration for Garibaldi shines through, the author does maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the hero's strengths and flaws.  However, the book’s focus on Garibaldi can sometimes limit its scope, giving less attention to other key figures like Count Cavour and King Victor Emmanuel II.  Additionally, Trevelyan's somewhat romanticized view may feel dated compared to modern scholarship. D

Insomnia Stephen King Signet Book, New York, 1995 672 pages A gripping supernatural thriller that explores the boundaries between reality and the metaphysical.  Set in the familiar town of Derry, Maine, the story follows Ralph Roberts, an elderly widower struggling with chronic insomnia after the death of his wife.  As his sleeplessness intensifies, Ralph begins to see auras and strange visions, revealing a hidden layer of existence. King masterfully blends elements of horror, fantasy, and psychological suspense, creating a complex narrative that delves into themes of aging, grief, and the cosmic battle between good and evil.  The detailed character development and rich, atmospheric storytelling are hallmarks of King's style, though some readers might find the pacing uneven at times. Overall, "Insomnia" is a thought-provoking and immersive read that will appeal to fans of King's intricate world-building and multifaceted characters.

The Spirit of London Boris Johnson Harper Press, London, 2012 411 pages "The Spirit of London" offers a vibrant and engaging tour of London's rich history and culture, as seen through the eyes of one of its most recognizable contemporary figures.  As both a former Mayor of London and a well-known public personality, Johnson's unique perspective brings the city's character to life in a way that is both informative and entertaining. The book covers a wide range of topics, from London's ancient roots and its significance in British history to its diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks.  Johnson delves into the stories behind famous buildings, streets, and the people who have shaped the city, providing readers with a deeper understanding of London's evolution over the centuries. Johnson's writing style is lively and accessible, often infused with his trademark wit and humor.  This makes for an enjoyable read, even for those who might not t