Chick Lit rules!
September 6th 2006 13:39
I used to think that chick lits were stories of fiction about young, successful women in their 30s, with a high-flying career and lived in that superb and posh New York apartment smacked right in the middle of the CBD or one of the few wealthy suburbs. They seem to have everything going for them in life….well, almost everything except their love lives. To me, these women are disastrous when it comes to relationships. Not only do they find it difficult (as in rocket science difficult) to keep the flame of their relationships burning, they’re extremely afraid of the C-word as well (C for commitment?!). I guess I was thinking more in terms of the drama/sitcom Ally McBeal when I heard of the existence of such novels.
I did not bother much about giving these a try, because at that time they’re like any other normal romance novels anyway. Not until recently though (out of curiosity and sheer boredom), that I decided to give Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholics series a try. Not bothering to find out the order of her books, I picked the one that seemed the most interesting (something that is ME – a hopeless romantic!), judging from the summary at the back cover. And so, I discovered Shopaholic Ties the Knot!
Boy, was I hooked! I don’t think I’ve enjoyed reading novels this much since I was 18 (and was reading the Sweet Valley series!). It was funny, hilarious and very refreshing for a romance literature. Call it the new generation romance genre if you must – and I was so addicted to it that as soon as I finished that book, I went out to get the rest of the books for that series!
Maybe what made me enjoyed it so much was the fact that I could relate to the characters in the book and fit into their lives as well (not that I’m a self-claimed shopaholic, of course – but I’m almost there!). After all, I’m in the same age group as Becky Bloomwood & Co. (i.e. people over 25). Heck, what other reasons do I need to give? It’s perfect for a light and pleasurable reading experience and it puts a smile on your face, making you laugh at their stupidity. Also, it makes us realize that there’s more to life than just work and stress. So, YES! Chick lits do teach us something good after all!
Now….it makes me wonder if there is a male version of a chick lit for the men in our lives. You know, maybe like a ‘dude lit’ or something along that line! It would be great if these existed – maybe it’s time that they learn a thing or two about relationships and understanding women.
So, anyone out there ready to take on that challenge?
I did not bother much about giving these a try, because at that time they’re like any other normal romance novels anyway. Not until recently though (out of curiosity and sheer boredom), that I decided to give Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholics series a try. Not bothering to find out the order of her books, I picked the one that seemed the most interesting (something that is ME – a hopeless romantic!), judging from the summary at the back cover. And so, I discovered Shopaholic Ties the Knot!
Boy, was I hooked! I don’t think I’ve enjoyed reading novels this much since I was 18 (and was reading the Sweet Valley series!). It was funny, hilarious and very refreshing for a romance literature. Call it the new generation romance genre if you must – and I was so addicted to it that as soon as I finished that book, I went out to get the rest of the books for that series!
Maybe what made me enjoyed it so much was the fact that I could relate to the characters in the book and fit into their lives as well (not that I’m a self-claimed shopaholic, of course – but I’m almost there!). After all, I’m in the same age group as Becky Bloomwood & Co. (i.e. people over 25). Heck, what other reasons do I need to give? It’s perfect for a light and pleasurable reading experience and it puts a smile on your face, making you laugh at their stupidity. Also, it makes us realize that there’s more to life than just work and stress. So, YES! Chick lits do teach us something good after all!
Now….it makes me wonder if there is a male version of a chick lit for the men in our lives. You know, maybe like a ‘dude lit’ or something along that line! It would be great if these existed – maybe it’s time that they learn a thing or two about relationships and understanding women.
So, anyone out there ready to take on that challenge?
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Comment by Justin
As the saying goes "what's good for the goose is good for the gander", albeit duck gender roles reversed.
Guys sometimes need guides in life that some male figures can't provide for in terms of advice, navigating work and girlfriends, juggling responsiblities, understanding wacky women etc.
Relating to the characters could even expand reading, comprehension and literature that guys usually can't get into. Plus, on the business sideof things, make the authors a packet if written well!
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
I think it was about a year later that I read Rachel's Holiday which is my fave book by Marian Keyes. I then went onto discover a whole world of books in a similar vein. I agree that the books are witty, they tackle some interesting topics that are relatable. I also love Sophie Kinsellas books and have read all of those in the series, I hope there's another one due out soon.
I now see my choice of reading books similarly to lots of things in my life such as my choices of films, telly progs etc. Sometimes I feel like reading something to stretch my mind, sometimes for entertainment and sometimes for plain escapism. It can vary. It doesn't have to be just one thing. The best thing about these sorts of books is that they make me laugh..
Comment by Justina
Tracy: I haven't read any of Marian Keys books yet, but I have read one of her short story from this book called 'ladies night' which she compiled. But it's good that these books can make us laugh....puts me into a good mood when I'm having a slighly bad day.
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life
I also like Lisa Jewell, Jane Green, Maggie Alderson, Anna Maxted. They're all in the same vein, not too fluffy, but definitely quite addictive and funny.
Comment by Justina
Comment by Tracy
Movies and Life