Book Review: The Little Liar by Mitch Albom

 

I've shared this on my IG Story before, but I'm posting it here so it can reach non-followers who might find this review helpful.

This is my first book of historical fiction on the Holocaust, and it truly broke my heart. It breaks my heart that “Never Again” remains such a powerful lesson from history, yet one of the least heeded in the time we’re living in now. I wept reading this book. Not just for what was, but for what still is. I cried in a way words can’t fully capture because Mitch Albom’s descriptions echoed the reality faced by the people of Gaza today.

I don’t know where Mitch Albom stands on the issue of Palestine, but I hope that one day, he might write a story for them too 🇵🇸. Truth be told. Truth be told. Free free Palestine! 

All in all, it’s a 4 out of 5 stars for me! I only wish we had more stories about Nico. Still, here are my 10 favourite quotes from the book.

I also posted my review on Goodreads.

In a world full of lies, honesty glimmers like silver foil reflecting the sun 

Never be ashamed of a scar. In the end, scars tell the story of our lives, everything that hurt us and everything that healed us.

By the time you share what a loved one longs to hear, they often no longer need it.

A man, to be forgiven, will do anything.

Sometimes a lie is merely truth that is yet to happen.

A hard truth of war: grief does not take sides.

Sometimes, it is the truth that we don’t speak that echoes the loudest.

Dead men tell no lies, but their truths must be unearthed.

It’s easy to be nice when you get something in return. It’s harder when nobody knows the good you are doing except yourself.

Evil travels like dandelion seeds, blowing over borders and taking root in angry minds....all humans are inclined to hate others if they believe they are the cause of their unhappiness. The trick is to convince them.

Book Review: As Long As The Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

I decided to be realistic and aim for one book per week, and proudly, I did it!

This week, I finished As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow, even while feeling under the weather. And what a powerful read it was.

Before I publish any review, my husband is always my number one listener. Page by page, chapter by chapter, he listens to my raw reactions and unfiltered emotions as I process the story. It’s become part of my reading ritual, and this time was no different.

Set in Syria, the book is a poignant, eye-opening narrative. In her acknowledgements, the author speaks of how little the world knows about Syria and how the media has failed to portray the full extent of the atrocities committed during the civil war. I have to admit, I too wasn’t fully aware of the depth of the conflict. This book served as both a wake-up call and a learning experience.

The pain endured by the civilians in Syria felt heartbreakingly similar to what we’re seeing in Gaza today. It crushed my soul to read about children living in fear, hospitals being bombed, and premature babies needing to be rescued from exploding medical centres. People running for their lives, leaving behind everything they knew, their homes, their memories, their identities, just to survive.

Many of us don’t truly understand the trauma refugees live with. Through the character of Khawf and the haunting experiences of Layla and baby Salama, the author paints a brutally honest picture. I had literal goosebumps. Imagine living every day with death surrounding you, never knowing if you or your family will be next. The lines between nightmare and reality blur. The horrors described when women were raped in public, civilians were slaughtered in the streets, all were so disturbing that I had to pause and breathe. Why do people commit such evil in the name of war? There is no dignity in it, only the cruelty of power-hungry men.

Reading this while I was sick made it hit even harder. It reminded me how privileged I am to have a roof over my head, clean water, warm meals, and the ability to visit a clinic whenever I feel unwell. They’re struggling to find even a Panadol.

Amid all the horror, the love story between Salama and Kenan offered a sliver of light. Their connection felt like a form of resistance, a small but powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, love still blooms. Their relationship wasn’t just romance; it was hope.

Overall, I give this book 4 stars, not because it lacked anything major, but because the pacing in some parts felt slightly uneven. That said, the emotional depth, the storytelling, and the importance of its message make it an incredibly worthwhile read.

Stay in Touch : Your Greatest Assets are the People Who Love and Care for You

 My beloved mentor recently shared with me a meaningful and beautifully written article by Michael Kouly.

Despite being caught up in workloads and long hours, I'm reminded of how grateful I am for the wonderful support around me; even from former colleagues.

I used to think that colleagues were just that: people you work with, and eventually, people you used to know. While that understanding isn't entirely wrong, it's not completely right either.

Some people genuinely care, even years after no longer being on the same team, they still check in, offer support, and remind you that connection doesn’t always fade with time.

We may not talk every day, but when we do, it feels like no time has passed.

Some may struggle with this version of adult friendship, but to me, it’s real, and I deeply appreciate those who’ve stayed in my corner.

Here’s the article! I hope you find it as inspiring as I did. 

And don’t forget to share it with those you care about. 😊

In the relentless pursuit of professional success— titles, portfolios, investments — we often misidentify our true wealth. The best assets aren’t stocks or skills; they’re the people who genuinely love and care for you. And these aren’t limited to family or close friends; they could be anybody—a mentor from a chance meeting, a colleague who checks in during tough times, even a stranger whose kindness sparks lasting connection, and most recently, your academy cohort. Recognizing and nurturing these bonds isn’t sentimental—it’s strategic for enduring fulfillment and resilience. (Read this again)

Material assets depreciate or vanish, but human connections compound value. Lose a high-value client or gadget? Recoverable. Lose someone who enters and enriches your life? The void lingers, eroding well-being. The Harvard Grant Study, spanning 85 years, concludes: Positive relationships drive happiness, health, and longevity more than any material gain.  Director Robert Waldinger says, “Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period.” 

This echoes attachment theory by John Bowlby: Humans are wired for emotional bonds; their presence fosters security, their absence profound loss.  The World Health Organization equates social isolation’s mortality risk to smoking 15 cigarettes daily—worse than obesity. 

Treat caring people as irreplaceable assets. Seek them beyond obvious circles—networking events, online communities, daily interactions. Express gratitude, invest time. Communicate openly, resolve conflicts. Remember, mature people. Audit your “portfolio”. Who truly cares? Invite more “anybodies” in to help you become and grow as “somebody”

Bottom line: People who love you are your best assets—cherish, protect, love and cultivate them for a richer life. (Read this twice, reflect and msg someone you wish to keep in your life)

Don’t you think?

Michael 

GCA

Mimi’s Reception: A Night of Elegance, Celebration, and Beautiful Memories

Exactly ten days before Mimi’s grand reception, we found ourselves at Saloma, a beautiful restaurant that was to become the stage for one of the most unforgettable nights. It was Labor Day, and it was the beginning of an adventure. I brought my little Iryss along, and watching her run around joyfully, playing with Mimi’s cousins’ daughters, made the whole experience even more special. At that moment, I realized this was not just any wedding; it was a massive event, one filled with VVIPs and countless guests, and I was about to be in the thick of it all as the Liaison Officer/Usherer.

In the days leading up to the reception, my role quickly grew. I was entrusted with managing the guest list, rearranging it, and adapting it with every last-minute change. Imagine handling hundreds of names, tables shifting, guests confirming or cancelling at the eleventh hour. I was lucky to have Kak Shasha leading the whole operation because frankly, I didn’t even know who half of the guests were. Without her guidance, I would have been lost.

The reception day itself came swiftly, less than 24 hours after the nikah ceremony. As soon as I could, my eyes were glued to my laptop, combing through the guest list again. I was making sure there were no duplicates, every name was accounted for, and each guest was placed in the correct section, because Saloma is not just any venue. It’s a large restaurant that shuts down for private events, and on this night, it was divided into several sections: one for VVIPs, another for close family, then family in general, and finally for friends.

With over 500 guests attending, organizing this felt like orchestrating a small army. We needed the guest list at our fingertips, and the “Ctrl+F” trick on the PDF list came in handy, but even then, the challenges were endless. Some names were still duplicated, some guests were uncertain about their attendance, and others changed their number of attendees last minute. That day, I learned so much about event management, but what I didn’t expect was to learn about managing a crowd that size.

When I got married myself, the situation was completely different. The pandemic meant only a handful of people were allowed, and as the bride, I had others taking care of all the logistics. But that night, on 11 May 2025, I was part of the frontline team. Alongside the girls, I was ushering guests, handing out door gifts, greeting friends, and managing the flow of people. One of my key responsibilities was to make sure 30 to 50 guests, already seated comfortably inside, would leave their seats at the right time to witness the magical arrival of Mimi and Jijui. It was not an easy task honestly, but a rewarding one because the venue had two beautifully set dais. 

One, outside, with the iconic KLCC skyline as a backdrop, was nothing short of magical; the other, inside the hall, was intimate and elegant. Guests were moved between these spaces throughout the night.

The VVIP guests were fascinating, people with many interesting stories and personalities. It was a chance for me to appreciate human nature on a deeper level. I saw warmth, pride, humility, and excitement all mingled in one space. That night also had its share of challenges. It rained, yes, the dreaded rain! The outdoor ceremony had to be delayed, as the plan was for everyone to experience the magical outdoor dais and a special dance performance. We had live telecasts so the outdoor guests could watch the indoor event and vice versa. Unfortunately, due to the rain, some of the screens weren’t set up properly. 

When Dato’ Kathy and Ramli Sarip took the stage, only the guests inside could enjoy their performance, while those outside missed out. But hey, these things happen, and they didn’t take away the magic.

The theme was a beautiful blend of Italian elegance and Moroccan flair. Mimi chose to wear a stunning Moroccan dress in baby blue, and it suited her perfectly. We even had an Italian cake ceremony, which was as elegant. The dress code called for us all to dress fabulously, and I swear, it felt like we were 17 again, a nostalgic throwback to Majlis Selingkar Kasih at Dewan Sri Endon, Putrajaya, an event many SSPians will fondly remember. I decided to wear a light purple abaya to match with Iryss, though in the end, I left Iryss at home to focus on my responsibilities, a wise decision since it gave me some precious solo time too.

The food was plentiful and delicious; a wide variety of stalls offering so many choices that I wished I could eat more. Sadly, as the crowd thinned out towards the end, most stalls started to close, and I missed out on some treats. But overall, the atmosphere was lively, joyful, and full of laughter. We all had fun; it was a night that made us feel young again, full of energy and hope. Everything was well-orchestrated, and the love and happiness in the air were undeniable.

Mimi, Jijui, honestly, being part of your big day was something really special for me. I hope the night was everything you imagined and more. You two deserve all the happiness in the world. May your marriage be filled with so much love, laughter, and those little everyday moments that make life so beautiful.

I wish you both endless patience and kindness towards each other, and that you always find comfort and strength in one another, no matter what life throws your way. Keep growing together, not just as husband and wife, but as best friends who lift each other up.

Thank you for letting me be a small part of this amazing journey. From the bottom of my heart, I hope your love keeps getting stronger, your days full of joy, and your home filled with peace and happiness.

Here’s to Mimi and Jijui, may your story be one for the ages, and your hearts forever connected.

Book Review: I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Su

 Finished this book in just two days; my fastest ever since becoming a mom of two. Between the chaos of diapers, dinners, and bedtime stories, this story had me hooked. I read it during stolen moments, and I just couldn’t put it down.

What I loved most is how it speaks softly but deeply about anxiety at work; the quiet kind that hides behind smiles and polite emails. It reminded me how easy it is to assume someone’s okay just because they look like they have it all together. The truth is, everyone’s struggling with something. And sometimes, the kindest thing we can do is just show up sincerely, with no agenda.

The book also nudged me to think about how past wounds, especially the ones from our younger years, don’t disappear. High school hurt, unspoken fears, they follow us quietly unless we face them. It reminded me: don’t be shy to ask for help. We all need it, and we all deserve to heal.

And Jolene and Cliff? Their chemistry gave me butterflies! The story had just enough twists to keep it interesting, but still felt light and comforting. And maybe what made me love it even more, it’s by a Canadian author. All the familiar places and little cultural quirks brought me back to my 2015–2019 memories. I found myself daydreaming… what if I had said yes to those two job offers I turned down back then? 😮‍💨🫣

If I had to rate it, I’d give it a solid 4.5/5. It’s not just the story; it’s the tone, the pacing, and the emotional honesty that made it stand out. The writing isn’t flashy, but it’s quietly powerful. The only reason it’s not a full five is because I wish we got a little more closure on one of the subplots, but maybe that’s life, too: not everything gets tied up neatly.

The book is available here: Kinokuniya

Book Review: Intermezzo by Sally Rooney

There are books so compelling that you can’t put them down, the real page-turners. And then, there are books so beautifully written that you don’t want to finish them, because you’re not ready to let them go.

Intermezzo is the latter.

I first picked it up earlier this year, but I couldn’t even make it past the second page. The narrative structure confused me; was it a dialogue? A monologue? It’s written in third person, but it felt abstract, hard to grasp at first.

Later, I brought it along as a hospital read. With fewer distractions, I finally sank into the emotional undercurrents of the story; the thoughts and feelings of the two brothers felt unfiltered, raw, and deeply human.

Peter’s inner world is restrained, his thoughts brief and dismissive, as though he’s always holding back. He’s the eldest, the responsible one, and you can feel the weight he carries. He seems to suppress his own feelings for the sake of the family, and I understood that.

Ivan, on the other hand, is all depth and complexity, overthinking, overanalyzing, and struggling to make sense of his emotions. I’m glad he found Margaret. She’s probably my favourite female character, someone who, despite her own troubles, manages to gently peel back each layer of Ivan’s emotional mess. She’s always present, always attentive.

Then there’s Sylvia and Naomi.

At first, I liked Sylvia; she felt like a safety net for Peter. But as the story unfolded, I struggled to understand her. Her actions felt selfish. Although things were eventually resolved between her and Peter, I wish the author had explored more of her past to explain her behaviour.

Naomi brought a refreshing shift. Even though she complicated Peter and Sylvia’s relationship, her presence made things feel lighter, less emotionally burdensome.

Overall, Intermezzo is a poignant reminder that grief affects people in different ways. 

And while friends can offer comfort, there’s something irreplaceable about family. 

As messy and complicated as family can be, they’re the ones who’ve lived through the same chapters of our lives, and that shared history means something.

I'd rate Intermezzo a solid 4.5 out of 5.

It took me a while to find my rhythm with the writing style, but once I did, the emotional depth and character exploration were incredibly rewarding. 

It's not an easy read, definitely, but it's a worthwhile one.

The book is also available here :)

Mimi’s Nikah: A Story of Love, Rain, and Friendship (Part 2)

The nikah day~

Ever since 2022, we made it a point to meet at least once a year. 

If we were lucky, twice. And that rhythm carried us all the way to the end of 2024, when Mimi confided in me something big. She was planning to get married. But she wasn’t sure how to tell her parents. She needed my advice.

I’ve known Mimi’s parents since high school. 

Aunty Liza has always been the coolest mom, free-spirited, a total social butterfly with a radiant warmth. She carries this energy that makes you feel instantly welcome. She’s fun, approachable, and above all, her heart is just... good. Kind. Big.

Uncle Rosley, on the other hand, is quieter. More reserved. He has a serious air, especially next to Aunty Liza, but beneath that calm exterior is a father who would do absolutely anything for his daughter. He might not say much, but his care is unwavering.

So I told Mimi, “You’ve got nothing to worry about. They’ll understand.”

But she hesitated, not because she doubted their love, but because she’s the youngest, and would be the first among her siblings to marry. It felt like a leap, even for her brave heart.

One of the first things I remember telling her was this:

Marriage isn’t just about you and Jijui. It’s about two families, joining as one. Two sets of people, with different values and upbringings, learning to coexist and grow together. It’s not always easy, but it’s beautiful when it works.

At the time, I was four years into marriage, and Allah had blessed me with such loving, supportive in-laws, I wouldn’t trade that for the world. And as her best friend, that’s the kind of joy I desperately want her to experience. The kind that goes beyond the wedding day. The kind that feels like home.

Eventually, planning began. Mimi once told me she wanted to get married on 10 January 2025. A few weeks later, I shared with her that I was pregnant with my second baby, and due on 1 January 2025. It broke my heart to tell her I might not make it to the wedding. But then, she changed her wedding date to 10 May. And got engaged on 10 February. I would like to believe she rescheduled everything just for me, and I refuse to believe otherwise. Hahaha.

I was the first to know what kind of wedding she wanted. The venue, the vibe, everything.

December 2024.

We met up one last time before my delivery date. I insisted we go to Big Bad Wolf (the book festival), despite being very pregnant. Mimi said I was insane, who goes book shopping at 9 months?! But she still came.

Mimi and Pan (my husband) are alike in one way: neither of them loves reading. My best friend and my husband, why?! Opposites attract, I guess. Thank God Iryss was there, and she had the best time. At least someone shared my joy.

10 February.

My confinement had just ended, and the very first event I attended was Mimi’s engagement. It was on a weekday, Pan even took leave so we could be there.

It was intimate. So Mimi. She picked up her engagement ring just the night before. And to my surprise, Aunty Liza made all the dais decorations by hand. They used what they already had at home, plus touches of daun keladi (elephant ear plant) and orchids everywhere. So simple, yet so breathtaking.

The food? Top tier. That laksam was unforgettable. And Mimi’s makeup? Flawless. It lasted all night! Of course, we stayed till late, because it’s Mimi’s house. Her home has always been a second home to her friends. Even Iryss made new friends with Mimi’s cousins’ kids!

Now, in just three months, Mimi will be a wife. She chose her bridal entourage, and we, her Guya girls, threw her the most adorable, intimate, cutesy bachelorette party. I may not be the most creative, but I love planning, and the girls made my Pinterest boards come alive. Mimi? Of course she cried. Of course.

She doesn’t love packing. Planning ahead isn’t her favorite either. But Mimi always knows what she wants. And while she might leave some things to the last minute, she rolls with it with grace. That’s her gift.

She wanted an intimate nikah, and that’s exactly what she got, on the lawn of her home in Kota Damansara, surrounded by loved ones all dressed in white.

10 May.

I had all these things I wanted to say in the moment, but I’ve learned now - write it down. Because when you don’t, the rawness fades.

Before the event began, it poured. The ceremony was meant to be outdoors. No tent. No shelter. I was worried, and all I could do was pray that Allah would let the rain stop. And by the time I arrived... it did. Almost.

We had very little time to get everything ready.

I was mostly assigned as the liaison officer/seat arranger for the reception, but I also helped with the setup. Mimi entrusted me with the final dais look, which made me nervous. The flowers smelled divine even from afar, all fresh. It was asymmetrical, and I had my doubts, but the florist said it matched the design Mimi approved. I didn’t question it further. It was beautiful, even if not symmetrical.

Everyone pitched in. Uncle Rosley, her brother, her aunties and uncles. We wiped chairs, laid tablecloths, set candles and flower vases. All the dulang girls played our parts. Upstairs, once all done downstaris, we tried keeping Mimi calm, helping with her dulang trays, fixing details, hyping her up.

I even got to meet Dato’ Khadijah Ibrahim, whom we called ibu. Such a sweetheart.

When it was time, we all got into position, guided via walkie-talkie by the real MVP of the whole event, Kak Shasha aka Mimi’s sister. I didn’t have my phone much, so I didn’t vlog. But this post, this is my record.

I was the ring bearer, one of the dulang girls. Naturally, the ring should come first... and it should be the smallest (read: shortest) aka me. Hahaha!

The akad was intimate. Uncle Rosley as wali, marrying off his daughter. Jijui was so nervous, it was honestly adorable. And when the words “sah” were spoken, fireworks lit the sky. It took me back to my own nikah day. But this time, all of Mimi’s best friends were there. I cried. We all did. She’s now a wife.

When the formality settled and everyone started mingling, Ummu, our best friend, sang “Bukan Cinta Biasa.” Her voice. The lyrics. Mimi hugging her mid-song. We were in tears. Magic was in the air. 

It felt like we were teens again. Back in 2008-2012. The years when we first grew into ourselves, through heartbreaks, losses, dreams. We’ve seen each other in every version of ourselves. And even though we don’t talk every day, when Mimi hurts and needs to talk, I’m there.

To see her this happy, it means the world to me. The whole event, while meant to celebrate Mimi and Jijui, ended up becoming a full-circle moment for all of us. It was healing. It was joy.

We took Polaroids, laughed, ate till late, but not too late. I’m a mom of two now, remember?

But as much as I felt joy, I also felt regret.

Regret for not being more expressive that night. For not telling her, really telling her, how happy I was for her. For not taking more photos together. For not helping her enough with those flying lanterns she had planned so carefully. For not doing more, even if I know she didn’t expect me to.

So Mimi, if you’re reading this:

I am so, so happy for you.

We’ve been through so much together. We’ve dreamed big dreams. And even though we’re on different timelines, different paths, the moments where our lives intersect? Those are among the best things that have ever happened to me. To have you as my best friend is a gift from Allah, and I love our friendship so, so deeply.

Welcome aboard the wild, beautiful boat of marriage. It can be scary, but with the right partner, it’s the most amazing journey. And Jijui is so lucky to have you. Just as you are, I’m sure, to have him.

Now… Iryss, Nawwafh, and the rest of the Guya babies can’t wait to meet Mimi and Jijui’s Jr. 💛

Should I write part 3? The Reception?

You already know I will.

My Best Friend Got Married: A Walk Down Memory Lane (Part 1)

May oh May...

Who else feels like May is the busiest month of the year? 

And somehow, just like that, we’re already at the end of July? It’s Q3?! Where did all the time go? 

Oh yeah… I gave birth, and time has been speeding ever since.

So many things happened in May, but the biggest highlight of all?

My best friend since 2008 got married.

Her name is Amelia, and this is her story (well, our story, really).

Our first encounter was at the bilik wudu’. She had long, straight hair. I complimented it, asked her name, and she told me, “Amelia, but you can call me Mimi.” And the rest? History.

Mimi and I are complete opposites. I love packing, she hates it. 

She played basketball, I was in the debate team. 

She was a house captain, I was the head girl. 

She didn’t quite agree with me becoming head girl at first; 

I remember us barely speaking after the announcement because she was afraid I would change(?). 

But after I returned from the Asian Schools Debate Championship (ASDC) in South Korea (which we won!), 

she gave me a note. 

In it, she said she’d support me in everything I do from then on. 

I never forgot that.

When I was 17, I had my own room - perks of being head girl - but I wasn’t brave. 

She was. I’d sleep with the lights on, and she would come by and turn them off once I had dozed off. 

She understood what I went through. 

The pressure of leadership, the academics, the mental load of being on the school prefectorial board. 

I cried almost every night, and she always knew. She lent me her giant teddy bear to keep me company. 

And knowing I wouldn’t eat when I was stressed (a habit I still have), she would make me instant porridge and make sure I ate, even if it was just a little.

After school, life took us to opposite ends of the world. I flew off to Canada for my degree, and she went to New Zealand. But during my first summer break, I visited her in Auckland, to console her after her first heartbreak :(

In my second year, I returned to Malaysia for an internship. On one of the weekends, she third-wheeled on a date I had with Pan and took me to Fattah Amin’s café in Kota Damansara. We also spent hours at her house with Aunt Liza (Mimi’s mama) karaoke-ing, laughing. I remember Edda was there too!

In summer 2018, she told me about a guy she used to borrow a car from, but had never actually met. They were in the same university but had different circles. They finally met after graduating. Oh and did I mention she graduated with flying colours from the University of Auckland?! Proud bestie moment.

When I asked her what her plan was, she said, “I’m going with the flow.” And surprise, surprise, the guy turned out to be Ajijui. We even had our first double date on Skype!

Before my final year, during winter break, Mimi and Kak Shasha flew all the way to the US to travel with me. I mostly free-rode the trip because she did all the planning and bookings (I was drowning in schoolwork). We drove across several states. Just the three hijabis on the road!

Honestly, if my daughter Iryss ever asks to do an all-girls trip across the US, I’d say, hell no! 😂 Nothing major happened, but we did stay in a sketchy downtown LA hostel where people got high every night. I got really bad bed bug bites. Aside from that, it was one of the best trips of my life.

When we shopped at the LA outlet, we became Aunt Liza’s personal shoppers. We bought almost half of the Henri Bendel store, no exaggeration. Our handbag haul could cover a queen-size bed. The security guard had to escort us to our car. Iconic.

Little did I know, that was the last time we’d meet before the pandemic hit.

When I got married, none of my best friends could attend. Zero best friends in my wedding photos. Sad, right? 

And Mimi’s case was worse as she was stuck in New Zealand. As the youngest in her family, living abroad, she couldn’t see anyone for over three years.

When we finally met again in 2022, she teared up. The last time she saw me was in January 2019… and suddenly we were face-to-face again, more than three years later. Me, married with a child! Wild! 

But that’s our friendship. We don’t talk every day. Sometimes we go months without a call. 

But every time we reunite, we pick up exactly where we left off. 

We may not talk all the time, but it always feels like no time has passed.

To be continued.

Stay tuned for Part 2: the wedding day. ❤️