J.F. Riordan

I recently had the pleasure of diving into Ms. Janet F. Riordan's collection of essays, "But Still They Sing," and what a delightful literary journey it has been! This compilation is a tapestry of emotions, experiences, and profound insights, artfully penned by an author with a deep connection to the rhythms of life.
From the very first essay, Ms. Riordan's poignant words resonate, as she declares, "Life is hard…but they, still sing." This theme weaves throughout the book, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity.
Ms. Riordan's writing style is akin to a gentle stroll through nature's wonders. Much like the renowned Ruskin Bond, an Indian author, she has an uncanny ability to bring the natural world to life with vivid descriptions and a profound appreciation for its beauty. Her love for nature shines through each page, making you pause and savor the smallest details of the world around you.
The collection encompasses a wide spectrum of emotions. From humorous anecdotes that elicited genuine laughter to soulful reflections that tugged at my heartstrings, Ms. Riordan's ability to traverse these emotional landscapes is commendable. Each essay is a window into her personal life, and I felt as though I was invited into her world.
One aspect that truly stands out is Ms. Riordan's capacity to find wisdom in everyday moments. She captures the essence of life's lessons with grace and authenticity, leaving readers with valuable takeaways.
While "But Still They Sing" is a captivating read, it's not without a few minor hiccups. Some essays resonate more deeply than others, and there were moments when I wished for a more consistent flow throughout the collection. Nevertheless, these are minor nuances in what is an overall remarkable work.
"But Still They Sing" by Ms. Janet F. Riordan is a heartfelt compilation that leaves an indelible mark on its readers. It is a reminder that, in the midst of life's challenges, there is always a song to be sung. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those seeking a thought-provoking, soul-nourishing but light read that celebrates the beauty of life in all its shades.
Ms. Riordan's voice is a welcome addition to the world of essayists, and I look forward to more of her literary offerings in the future.

… (mehr)

I mostly enjoyed this collection of simple, short essays -- vignettes filled with perceptive, interesting observations and insights of everyday life and musings on nature. There was the charming story of the spider who hung out in the author’s bathtub and an anecdote about how her dog acquired the name Moses (her dogs make many appearances in these tales). While I did not find myself looking forward to picking up the book every single day, several pieces engendered a smile and some self-reflection.… (mehr)

I adored "But Still They Sing." Heartbreaking at times, laugh-out-loud funny at others, it displays a depth and range of emotion that is breathtakingly rendered on the page. You may cry; you may laugh, but you will surely come away with a fresh perspective on life, the universe, and everything.

"But Still They Sing" touches on such diverse themes as mortality, life in the face of adversity, dogs, and natural elements like snow and mud. It is unpretentiously philosophical and is a delightful, moving, tender read.… (mehr)