A book by Lynn Wong: From the chapter on "Marilyn Monroe Moment" by Lynn Wong

A review by:

Mr. Chan Bing Fai

Former school teacher, Headmaster and educational technologist

Lynn Wong's latest book is SMILE though your heart is ACHING. This is a much awaited book, a worthy sequel to her first book "As Time Goes By" published five years ago. Both her books are generally about life and living. They are not autobiographies.

Her first book is centred more on childhood memories and growing up pains based more on events, observations and her responses and reactions to them, with the innocence of a child. Her latest book, however, is about the adult world with its ups and downs.

It is also about fighting corporate battles.

The words she has chosen carry her thoughts succinctly. They are warm and friendly without being pretentious. The topics included in both her books cover a broad spectrum of subjects and events. Some are more hilarious and many are focused on a more serious note.

Her approach to life is spontaneous, governed by prudence and common sense. It appears lighthearted and easy. Being a keen observer, even trifles, will not escape her scrutiny. Her response to these is largely based on common sense and knowledge; laced with wisdom.

Her thoughts flow through smoothly from one idea to another and the transition is gentle, methodical, tidy and logical. Lynn's philosophy appears simple and yet very profound and thoughtful; gracious and tinged with a lot of human skills and understanding.

Her books are very personal and subjective; unique, highly perceptive, intimate and reflective. I have enjoyed reading both her books and excitedly look forward to her next one which I hope will not take too long to come to fruition.

Her artist -illustrator- is equally talented in bringing out the many encounters and experiences of the author through her drawings; depicting expressions, moods and emotions subtly and with precision. Congratulations to both of you for complementing each other perfectly!

The typography and layout is attractive and designed for easy reading. The book is available in major bookstores.

It is priced at RM27.90.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

From the chapter on "Marilyn Monroe Moment" by Lynn Wong

As befitting the occasion, the red carpet was rolled out and the
marquee in which the reception was held could only be described as lavish
and tasteful despite the fact that it was erected on the wharf front!

The guest list consisted of all the who's who in the shipping fraternity. Food were
aplenty and wine flowed freely as the people mingled.....

At some point we were invited to go up the gargantuan vessel. As I tread precariously
up the gangway, gripping the ropes on both sides, minding my three-and-half inch
Ferragamo stilettos; a sudden gust of wind came and my skirt billowed.

I froze momentarily!

Should I hang on to my hat or press my skirt down? Surely I wasn’t going to do
a Marilyn Monroe in full view of two hundred spectators!

And they say maneuvering a ship was difficult......