As part of Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, food, shelter tents, and basic supplies were provided to Palestinian families
The book club pick for this month on Karen's Bookshelf (my online show about books) is The Neighbour by Fiona Cummins, which I've just finished; it was brilliant. I've also just finished Tracey Chevalier's A Single Thread, which is a beautifully written historical story. Next up: Postscript by Cecelia Ahern.
A book that changed your life?
Great question! There have been quite a few that impacted me. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts was one, because I found his writing so immersive and powerful, taking the reader to a completely different world. I wanted to emulate that as an author myself. The other book is Wild Swans by Jung Chang, which I read in my late teens; it cemented my absolute passion for travel. Finally, on the career front, The Four-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss altered my worldview completely in terms of how we live our lives. I still refer to it regularly.
A memorable literary character?
As a child, I always dreamt of being Nancy Drew from the detective series, so she's definitely up there as a favourite. Recently, I read A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman and loved how the writer revealed so many facets of his personality. I was really sad to say goodbye to his character when the book ended.
I'm not sure how underrated it is but I'm always surprised more people haven't read The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. It's unique in that it's told from a dog's perspective and is a wonderful story that's both clever and heartwarming.
Your favourite book quote - and why.
"A clock ticks for all of us, silently, somewhere." This is from one of my favourite books, The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom. However, the older I get, the more I realise just how important it is to take a few minutes to appreciate everything I have and to use that time I have wisely.
- As told to Karen Ann Monsy
As part of Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, food, shelter tents, and basic supplies were provided to Palestinian families
The South African is tied with Denmark’s Nicolai Kristensen at the halfway stage of the tournament
The neighbourhood around the consulate was closed after the 60-year-old entered the premises, claiming to be armed with an explosive vest
All competent authorities must work together and coordinate to expedite possible means of support
Emirati Jiu-Jitsu stars win 23 medals, athletes grab 11 medals, and People of Determination excel with 14 medals
The first of seven phases, Friday's vote covered 166 million voters in 102 constituencies across 21 states and territories
The unique showcase brings together a diverse lineup of comedians from India and Pakistan, promising an hour of non-stop entertainment
Work teams across all customs centres continued to process cargo clearance and inspections