Showing posts with label Book Recommendations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book Recommendations. Show all posts

Rakuten Kobo September Afterparty: eReader Deals and 5 Books Worth Reading

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Hi Huneybees,


You know that feeling when you're so engrossed in a book that you almost miss your MRT stop? Or when you tell yourself "just one more chapter" before bed, only to realise it's already way past midnight?

That's the magic of a good book. Sometimes, all we need is a little escape from our busy schedules, whether it's during our daily commute, a lunch break, or those precious quiet moments before bedtime.

And if you've been thinking about getting an eReader or adding a few more titles to your digital bookshelf, here's a little something for you!

Rakuten Kobo is bringing us its September Afterparty from 21 to 30 September 2026, with discounts on selected eReaders, a S$40 eBook coupon with every eligible Kobo device purchase, and a selection of books to inspire your next read.



Which Kobo eReader Suits Your Reading Style?

Not all bookworms read the same way. Some of us love squeezing in a few pages whenever we can, while others prefer curling up somewhere comfortable and getting completely lost in a story. Whether you're a casual reader, someone who loves annotating books, or simply looking for a convenient way to bring your favourite stories everywhere, there's a Kobo eReader worth considering.

Kobo Clara Colour – For Readers Who Love a Splash of Colour

If you're always carrying a book around, the Kobo Clara Colour might be your kind of reading companion. With its compact 6-inch colour E Ink display, you can enjoy colourful book covers and highlighted passages without having to carry physical books everywhere.

It's particularly handy for those MRT rides when you manage to grab a seat and have a little reading time to yourself.

September Afterparty promotional price: S$234.40 (U.P. S$259.90)
That's 10% off, plus a S$40 eBook coupon to get you started on your next read!

Kobo Libra Colour – For Readers Who Love Making Notes

Are you someone who highlights meaningful quotes, scribbles down thoughts, or finds yourself reflecting on something you've just read? The Kobo Libra Colour features a larger 7-inch colour E Ink display and supports the Kobo Stylus 2, allowing you to annotate passages and jot down ideas while reading.

I can see this being particularly useful for readers who enjoy non-fiction, self-development books, or simply want to keep track of those little thoughts that pop up while reading.

September Afterparty promotional price: S$332.20 (U.P. S$369.90)
Enjoy 10% off and receive a S$40 eBook coupon with your purchase.
The Kobo Stylus 2 is sold separately.

Kobo Clara BW – For Readers Who Just Want to Get Lost in a Story

Sometimes, we don't need anything fancy. Just a comfortable reading experience and a story good enough to keep us turning the pages. The Kobo Clara BW keeps things simple with its glare-free E Ink Carta 1300 HD screen and ComfortLight PRO, which allows you to adjust the brightness and colour temperature.

It's a practical choice for readers who prefer the classic black-and-white reading experience, especially when winding down at the end of a long day.

September Afterparty price: S$229.90
While there's no additional 10% discount on this model, you'll still receive a S$40 eBook coupon with your eligible purchase.



5 Books to Add to Your Kobo Reading List

Of course, getting an eReader is only half the fun. The real excitement comes from deciding what to read next! Whether you're in the mood for something thought-provoking, a little romance, or a thriller that keeps you guessing, Kobo has curated five titles to suit different reading moods.

1. Situated by Angela Duckworth – When Your Surroundings Shape Who You Become

Have you ever wondered how much of your success is really down to personal effort, and how much is influenced by the people and environment around you? In Situated, Angela Duckworth, the author of Grit, explores how our surroundings, relationships and everyday situations can influence our behaviour and achievements.

It's an interesting perspective, especially when we're so often told that determination and hard work are all we need to succeed.

Why pick it up? If you enjoy books that challenge how you think about personal growth, this could be one to add to your list. 


2. The Lunch Break Investor by Thomas Chua – Making Time to Learn About Investing

Let's face it, between work, family and everything else happening in our lives, finding time to learn something new can be challenging. In The Lunch Break Investor, Thomas Chua introduces an approach to understanding businesses and building a long-term investment portfolio, even with a busy schedule.

And perhaps that's the appeal of this book. You don't necessarily need to dedicate hours every day to start learning about investing.

Why pick it up? If you've been wanting to understand investing better but don't know where to begin, this might be a useful addition to your reading list.

3. The Courage to Be Ordinary by Ichiro Kishimi – Is It Okay to Just Be Yourself?

We're constantly surrounded by messages telling us to be better, achieve more and stand out from the crowd. But what if there's nothing wrong with simply being ordinary?

In The Courage to Be Ordinary, Ichiro Kishimi explores the idea of letting go of the pressure to be exceptional and learning to find confidence and contentment in being yourself. It's a refreshing thought, especially in a world where we're constantly comparing our achievements and milestones with everyone else's.

Why pick it up? For those moments when you need a gentle reminder that life isn't always a competition.


4. Verity by Colleen Hoover – For Those Who Love a Dark, Twisty Thriller

Now, if you're looking for something that might keep you reading way past bedtime, Verity could be the one.

The story follows Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who accepts a job completing a bestselling book series for an author who can no longer finish it. But while going through the author's notes, Lowen discovers a disturbing manuscript filled with secrets that were perhaps never meant to be revealed.

As she becomes increasingly involved with the family, the line between truth and deception begins to blur.

Why pick it up? If you enjoy psychological suspense, unsettling secrets and stories that leave you questioning everything, this one sounds right up your alley.

5. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood – When Fake Dating Gets Complicated

Sometimes, all we want is a fun romance to help us unwind after a long day.

In The Love Hypothesis, PhD candidate Olive Smith finds herself in a fake relationship with professor Adam Carlsen after trying to convince her best friend that she's dating someone. What starts as a pretend romance becomes increasingly complicated when genuine feelings begin to develop.

And really, isn't that the fun of a fake-dating romance? We know things probably won't go according to plan, but we still want to see how everything unfolds!

Why pick it up? If you're in the mood for witty romance, unexpected chemistry and a little escapism, this might be your next read.



A Little Treat for First-Time Kobo eBook Buyers

New to Kobo? Here's another reason to start building your digital bookshelf!

Enjoy 30% off your first eBook purchase with the promo code AFTERPARTY30, valid until 31 October 2026.

*The offer is available to first-time eBook buyers only, and exclusions apply.

You can browse eBooks on Kobo Singapore or explore eReaders and accessories at Rakuten Kobo's official Lazada store.




There's Always Time for Another Good Story

I think one of the nicest things about reading is that we don't always need to set aside an entire afternoon to enjoy it. Sometimes, it's those little moments that count. A few pages on the train, a chapter during lunch, or a little quiet time before bed.

And with so many different genres to explore, there's always another story waiting to be discovered.

So, which of these five books would you pick up first? Would you go for something thought-provoking, a suspenseful thriller, or a light-hearted romance?



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7 Books to Read After Watching The Odyssey: From Greek Myths to Modern Retellings

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Hi Huneybees,

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Finished watching The Odyssey and still can't get enough of Greek mythology? From vengeful gods and terrifying monsters to epic adventures, forbidden love and heartbreaking betrayals, there's something about Greek mythology that keeps us coming back for more.

And while Odysseus may have spent ten years trying to get home, thankfully, we don't have to go on quite such a long journey to discover more of these fascinating stories!

Whether you're curious about the original tale that inspired the movie, want to find out what happened before Odysseus set sail, or simply love a good mythological retelling, Rakuten Kobo has put together a reading list to keep the adventure going.

Here are seven books worth adding to your reading list, depending on which part of Greek mythology has captured your imagination.




1. Want to Read the Original Story? Start with The Odyssey by Homer

Translated by Emily Wilson

If watching The Odyssey has made you curious about the story behind the movie, why not go straight to the source? Emily Wilson's translation brings this ancient epic to modern readers with clear, accessible language while preserving the beauty of Homer's storytelling.

Homer's The Odyssey follows the Greek hero Odysseus as he struggles to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. What should have been a journey home turns into a ten-year adventure filled with mythical creatures, dangerous encounters, meddling gods and plenty of questionable decisions.

Along the way, there's the terrifying Cyclops, the enchanting Circe and the irresistible song of the Sirens. Meanwhile, back in Ithaca, his wife Penelope is dealing with problems of her own.

Why read it? If you're the sort who loves comparing books with their movie adaptations, this is your chance to discover what made it onto the big screen, what was changed and what didn't make the cut.

2. Wondering What Happened Before The Odyssey? Read The Iliad by Homer

Translated by Emily Wilson

Before Odysseus embarked on his legendary journey home, there was the Trojan War. And if you're wondering what started all the drama, The Iliad is a good place to explore the world that came before The Odyssey.

Another of Homer's great epics, The Iliad takes us into the final weeks of the Trojan War, where legendary warriors like Achilles and Hector clash in a story of pride, honour, revenge and tragedy.

But don't expect a straightforward account of the entire war. At its heart, The Iliad is about Achilles' anger and the devastating consequences it has on everyone around him. And you might just realise that the Greek heroes weren't always quite as heroic as their legends suggest!

Why read it? It's perfect for anyone who enjoys epic battles, complicated heroes and discovering the backstories behind familiar mythological figures.

3. Fascinated by Circe? Discover Her Side of the Story in Circe by Madeline Miller

In The Odyssey, Circe is the powerful enchantress who famously turns Odysseus' men into pigs. But have you ever wondered what her story was before Odysseus appeared on her island? Madeline Miller's bestselling novel Circe gives this fascinating character a voice of her own.

Born into the world of the gods but never quite fitting in, Circe discovers her talent for witchcraft and eventually finds herself exiled to a remote island. There, she encounters gods, monsters and mortals while learning what it truly means to take control of her own destiny.

It's a beautifully written story about loneliness, love, independence and finding strength in a world that constantly tries to define who you should be.

Why read it? I love the idea of revisiting a familiar story from a character's perspective, especially when she's traditionally portrayed as the villain or an obstacle in someone else's adventure. After all, there's usually more than one side to every story, even in Greek mythology!

4. Love a Heartbreaking Romance? Pick Up The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

If you're someone who enjoys a good love story, even when you know it might end in heartbreak, The Song of Achilles deserves a spot on your reading list.

Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, this novel reimagines the relationship between Achilles, the legendary Greek warrior, and Patroclus, his closest companion. Told through Patroclus' eyes, the story follows their relationship from childhood to the battlefield, exploring love, friendship, sacrifice and the weight of destiny.

While The Iliad focuses on the rage and glory of war, The Song of Achilles brings us closer to the people behind the legends. Just be prepared for some heartbreak. Greek mythology isn't exactly famous for giving everyone a happily-ever-after!

Why read it? It's for readers who prefer the emotional side of mythology over battles and monsters.

5. Ever Wondered What Penelope Was Doing All Those Years? Read The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

We hear plenty about Odysseus and his ten-year journey home. But what about Penelope, the wife who spent twenty years waiting for him to return from the Trojan War? Was she really just the patient, faithful wife that history remembers?

In The Penelopiad, Margaret Atwood turns the familiar story on its head by allowing Penelope to tell her own version of events. Speaking from the afterlife, Penelope reflects on her marriage, her famous husband and the events that unfolded while he was away. The novel also gives a voice to the twelve maids whose tragic fate is often overlooked in the original epic.

With Atwood's signature wit and sharp observations, it's a fascinating exploration of loyalty, power and whose stories get remembered. Because while everyone remembers the hero who came home, what about the people who were left waiting?

Why read it? If you enjoy books that challenge familiar narratives, this one might make you question everything you thought you knew about Penelope and Odysseus.

6. Want to Hear the Forgotten Voices of the Trojan War? Try A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes

When we think about the Trojan War, names like Achilles, Hector and Odysseus immediately come to mind. But wars don't only affect the heroes fighting on the battlefield.

In A Thousand Ships, Natalie Haynes retells the Trojan War through the eyes of the women whose lives were forever changed by it.

From queens and goddesses to captives, mothers and daughters, the novel brings together multiple perspectives to reveal the personal tragedies, difficult choices and extraordinary resilience behind one of mythology's most famous conflicts. It's a reminder that every epic battle has countless stories that never make it into the history books.

And who knows? You might discover that some of the most compelling characters in Greek mythology aren't the heroes we've been hearing about all along.

Why read it? This is a great choice if you enjoy stories that give overlooked characters their moment in the spotlight.

7. Prefer Something Lighthearted? Dive into Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan

Who says Greek mythology has to be all tragedy, betrayal and complicated family drama?! There's still plenty of family drama in Percy Jackson and the Olympians, especially when your relatives happen to be Greek gods!

Rick Riordan's popular fantasy series follows Percy Jackson, a modern-day teenager who discovers that he's actually a demigod, the son of Poseidon.

Suddenly, Greek mythology isn't just something from ancient history. The gods are still around, monsters are lurking in unexpected places, and Percy finds himself caught up in dangerous quests that could determine the fate of the world.

Packed with humour, friendship, adventure and plenty of mythological references, the series offers a fun introduction to Greek mythology. And even if you've read the books years ago, revisiting Percy Jackson as an adult can be a surprisingly nostalgic experience!

Why read it? It's perfect for younger readers, mythology newcomers or anyone looking for an entertaining adventure without having to tackle an ancient epic.



Which Greek Mythology Book Should You Read First?

With so many interesting stories to explore, there's really no right or wrong place to begin.

If you're curious about the original legend, start with The Odyssey. If you want to understand the events that came before it, pick up The Iliad. But if you're like me and enjoy exploring familiar stories through different perspectives, Circe, The Penelopiad and A Thousand Ships sound particularly intriguing.

After all, one of the things I find most interesting about mythology is how the same story can feel completely different depending on who's telling it. A hero in one person's story might be the villain in someone else's. And sometimes, the characters standing quietly in the background have the most interesting stories of all.



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Continue Your Reading Adventure with Kobo

All seven recommendations are available to explore as eBooks through Rakuten Kobo.

You can read them on a Kobo eReader or through the Kobo Books app on your smartphone or tablet, making it easy to squeeze in a little reading during your daily commute, while waiting for friends or just before bedtime.

And with your reading progress synced across compatible devices, you can continue your adventure wherever you left off.

Explore the books at Rakuten Kobo Singapore amd if you are looking to purchase a Kobo eReader or accessories, you can conveniently browse and shop for thm through Kobo’s official store on Lazada here.

In Singapore, readers can enjoy 25% off eBooks sitewide from 6 to 8 Aug with the promo code BLITZ2608.
Exclusions may apply.
Please refer to Kobo’s website for full terms and conditions.

So, if you could revisit The Odyssey through another character's eyes, whose story would you want to hear? Circe, Penelope, or perhaps even one of the monsters Odysseus encountered?

I'd love to know which book you'd pick up first!



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