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.

Thursday, April 20, 2017

CLOSURE

School days weren't my happiest. I felt I had left no indelible significant memory and was not missed in any way. There were no contacts made with teachers, fellow students etc after we said our goodbyes and walked out the formidable school gate.
School was over; the close of one chapter.

Imagine my shock and utter disbelief when after forty years, a classmate I haven't heard from or seen called. "I've been thinking of you the past few years," she started. "And often wondered what had happened to you," she continued.
"So nice to hear your voice," we both chanted.


Through her, I learned some startling facts about Me. It seemed even back then, I was a popular figure at school and had a keen following. In fact I was somewhat idolized! Oh, really!? I never knew any of that. 

She was quick to add that I was different; stood out and demonstrated strong leadership qualities. You don't say!   Even though I was stern and firm - the no nonsense type  -  I had a soft heart and genuinely cared for people. That's true!

I'm walking on air... It's good to know my school years of obscurity weren't totally lost! I had mattered even then. So good to know ...even when it's forty years too late! 

Time for closure.

Smile, you'll never know who is watching...


No comments: