24/07/2025

LYFE THURSDAY | JULY 24, 2025

25

RIVETING READS

Pseudo-Immortals 0 Author: Charissa Ong Pseudo-Immortals is a thrilling sci-fi debut novel by Charissa Ong that follows transhumanists Sheila Patel and Flynn Murr as they embark on a high-stakes investigation to seek justice for those they love. Set in a near-future world of advanced technology, genetic engineering and the ethical dilemmas of artificial intelligence, this action-packed debut blends suspense, humour and a touch of romance. With a background in tech, Ong weaves her knowledge into storytelling, offering young adult readers a fresh alternative to the oversaturated fantasy market while grounding her work in thought-provoking, futuristic themes.

Triumphs and Tragedies: From Village Boy to Globetrotting Ambassador 0 Author: Datuk Ramanathan Vengadesan This autobiography by retired Malaysian ambassador Datuk Ramanathan Vengadesan chronicles his childhood and diplomatic career. He joined Wisma Putra in 1969 and served in the USSR, Japan, Laos, Belgium and Thailand before attaining ambassadorial rank and becoming Malaysia’s envoy to Mali, Senegal, Namibia and Italy. The book tells snippets of life in the Malaya that he grew up in and also the 70 countries that he visited. Among the highlights of his career were facilitating the first visit of a UK premier (Edward Heath) to Malaysia in 1971 and attending the United Nations (UN) conference in New York on the Cambodian war after the fall of the Khmer Rouge. He also faced down violent threats during a coup in Mali in 1991 and led Malaysia’s delegation to a UN diplomatic conference on establishing an International Criminal Court. He also had an audience with Pope John Paul II when he was in Rome.

No Man River 0 Author: Duong Huong

Translated by acclaimed scholars Quan Manh Ha and Charles Waugh, one of Vietnam’s most beloved literary masterpieces has been brought to global readers for the first time in English. Set in a northern Vietnamese village during and after the American War, No Man River captures the emotional and ideological terrain of life on the homefront. Through the story of Van, an injured but idealistic veteran striving to transform his traditional community, and Nhan, the widow of his fallen comrade, Duong Huong offers a piercing, humane portrayal of a society caught between old beliefs and revolutionary ideals. Rather than glorifying war, the novel centers the quiet heroism of those left behind – women, elders and veterans wrestling with love, grief and sweeping political change.

Intellectuals in Developing Societies 0 Author: Syed Hussein Alatas Intellectuals in Developing Societies was first published in 1977, alongside The Myth of the Lazy Native . It was written after Syed Hussein Alatas’ withdrawal from active politics. Alatas’ experience as the national chairperson of Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia and his presence in the Senate brought him face-to-face with problems that were largely the result of the kind of elites ruling the country. Intellectuals flourish during times of crisis, but in periods of relative calm, they must form a community, without which there will not be conscious and intelligent solutions to the problems faced by developing societies. These problems must be met by intellectual justice, not with the exploitative ignorance of the fools. Only after the emergence of such a community can the developing societies of our world escape the clutches of the fools and chart their own course.

The Art and Science of Peak Performance 0 Author: John Aguilar Entrepreneur and TV producer John Aguilar chronicles his personal transformation journey – physical and mental – as he returns to competitive sport after two decades. Drawing insights from Olympians, doctors, psychologists and performance coaches, this inspiring book serves as a practical, science-backed guide to achieving peak performance and unlocking the best version of yourself. Covering everything from sleep and nutrition to longevity and mental strength, it is a holistic playbook for anyone seeking to live smarter, stronger and longer. Aguilar is a seasoned business and motivational speaker, and hosts the Methods to Greatness podcast, where he interviews Asia’s world-class performers, business leaders and cultural icons.

Education of Ethnic Minorities: The Case of Indians in Malaysia 0 Author: Santhiram R. Raman The development of educational policy and programmes related to ethnic and racial diversity is an immensely important topic. An examination of such policies and practice would certainly deepen our understanding of education and help us formulate more powerful generalisations about the formation of education policy and practice related to cultural and ethnic diversity. This book explores the situation of Malaysian Indians and their education. Many young Malaysian Indians enter schools in which their native language, Tamil, is used as a medium of instruction. The book examines the problems faced by these pupils from a variety of perspectives.

Chronically Online 0 Author: Lily Low

This witty, heartfelt Gen Z romance is set in the chaotic world of content creation. It follows Destiny Chen, a mental health student turned accidental influencer, and Donovan Cider, a battle-hardened creator with secrets of his own. When their digital paths collide, sparks fly – but so do complications. Set against the backdrop of cancel culture, fame and friendship, this is a story about ambition, identity and the kind of love that thrives even in the spotlight. From mental health and burnout to influencer culture and online fame, this book captures the digital dilemmas young people face today – with authenticity and nuance.