Review: American War By Omar El Akkad

Finally got some time to enjoy a new book on the porch. My hectic life doesn't always leave time for these sorts of things so when I do find the time it's a really good feeling.

I picked up American War by Omar El Akkad.

You can find it on Amazon below! (I may get a small commission if you purchase the book through my link) 

The story starts in the 2070's after the second American Civil War, the North and South are once again divided by their beliefs. The story focused on a southern family and their mission to make a life for themselves midst the chaos.

Book review

I loved the base of this story because it's a realistic vision of what our world could look like in 50-60 years. Waters have risen, coasts have disappeared... The US map in this book looks quite different than the one we know today and the country is divided over fuel. The North is embracing solar power and the South is gripping to fossil fuels. With all the issues that plague the United States in our modern era I appreciated the realistic choice for the conflict.

American War

I will warn you: this story isn't for the faint of heart. Throughout the whole book although you are focused on the southern protagonist Sarat and her ventures I found myself questioning choices since I am a fan of renewable energy and preventing the global warming that plagued the US coastlines in this book. 

However, it is evident that the southern characters are being .. "bullied" so as a Canadian reader at least; I flip flopped with my feelings of what's right.

American War

The author of this book is a former journalist who has seen the real effects of war, which I credit the realistic story line to. This story is real, don't read it before bed because it's very real. You learn to love each character even if you don't love their desperate choices during a long dawn out war.

American War

I highly recommend this book. Its a real (although fictional) story of the depressing human nature that neglects putting differences aside and being human first. I hope with more stories like this we will be less inclined to make the same mistakes.

Review: Local New Brunswick Wines

I drove and stayed in Saint John for a few days for work- while I was there I figured I would indulge in some local wines.

Local New Brunswick Wine review

I headed for NB Alcool and grabbed the first store clerk I could find to direct me to the best local wines available. That poor girl didn't know what was coming....

1) "Verger Belliveau" a pear wine from Memramcook, NB.

Verger Belliveau

The wine was sweet. smooth and fresh tasting. It went down like fruit juice without any issues. You could very easily enjoy this as a treat, with dinner, or at an event.

2) "Richibucto River" from Mundleville, NB

Richibucto River

This wine was much more dry than my first choice, and also much more tarte. Better for someone who prefers their wine a little stronger and not with the personality of juice (I can be in the mood for either sometimes).

I found this was best combined with a meal, it's not sweet enough for a treat and a bit strong to sip on at an event.

3) "Dunhams Run Long Reach" made with honey from Kingston, NB

Dundams Run Long Reach

This bottle was SWEET I would even place it as more of a dessert wine to be frank. It has a very strong honey taste as was quite dry. I recommend one glass at a time as a treat with this one- it can get over powering very quickly.

The verdict:

3 nights, 3 bottles (I'm sure the hotel cleaners thought I was a lush... But after my experience with the hotel I'm not overly concerned of what they thought of me. My favorite of the 3 was definitely the Verger Belliveau- it's sweet and smooth personality made it perfect for a relaxing evening.