It’s finally here: the final issue of Tiger Times. Keeping in tune with that tone of finality, it is with a heavy heart that I announce that this will also be the ultimate installment of my book review column. I have been writing this column for the past two years, both for the Tiger Times and for Tiger Times Online, and it was memorable. But now, it is time to let go. All things end, but the beauty of books is that there are always new beginnings of stories being written and read. And we’re all just stories in the end. Perhaps that’s why reading is so appealing to many of us. In any case, thank you, reader(s), for keeping up with my book review over the previous few issues (I sincerely hope that the plural applies). I’d like to end by providing you with beginnings to read and explore. So here we go, some of my favorite books that have emerged over the course of my lengthy lifetime of 16 years. Allons-y!

Hamlet

Yes, for those of you who don’t know, I have a favorite Shakespearean play. No, that’s not nerdy. And yes, it’s Hamlet. From the beautifully crafted language that spawned phrases now embedded into the Western culture (“To be or not to be” and “Alas, poor Yorick” come to mind) to the unique human nature of the characters, Hamlet is a play (and character) that derives its brilliance from the inconstancy in interpretation. Every time I read the play, I feel like I get something new out of it. Some may complain about the Elizabethan style or the convoluted plot, but as Shakespeare himself writes: “Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.”

Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman!

I know I’ve mentioned this book in a previous review that was published online, but I couldn’t help but to delve into greater depth here. This memoir by Richard Feynman, famous American theoretical physicist, was one of the books that established Feynman as one of my favorite scientists of all time. Though Feynman clearly displays his love for all things science-related, that’s not the only thing about the book that is appealing; Feynman is just a hilarious person. The stories he tells are entertaining, and his delivery makes them even better. It’s a must-read for any science lovers, history lovers and anyone who wants to laugh.