Ebook North of Happy Adi Alsaid Books

Product details Paperback 320 pages Publisher Inkyard Press; Original edition (February 26, 2019) Language English ISBN-10 1335659994

North of Happy Adi Alsaid Books Reviews

• I loved this book and tore through it in about a day. It is a simple and poignant story, beautifully told, of a boy trying to reconcile love, family, and his need to express his own unique gifts. It leaves an aftertaste of life, in all its beautiful, wrenching glory.
  
  Carlos's voice is sweet, relatable, and hilarious, and his ongoing relationship with his dead brother is very well-handled -- funny and moving. Alsaid's descriptions of setting (and food) are particularly lush and fresh. Like the best descriptions, they put you deeper into the story rather than taking you out of it. The author's own love of food and nature comes through on every page. On a personal level, this book made me miss living in Mexico -- and also want to move immediately to the San Juan Islands!
  
  NORTH OF HAPPY did a definite number on my heart, squeezing it, expanding it, and leaving it full at the end. I can't ask for more in a book!
• I love Adi Alsaid's writing style. His characters feel like people I could meet, the settings realistic, and the plot so likely to actually be happening somewhere in the world right now.
  
  Here is what I loved about NoH the deep, clear and consistent portrayal of what it means to cope with grief, the reflective nature of the protagonist, the lovely characterization of the love interest, the hero journey-like character types (the mentor, the nemesis, the best friend), the realistic depiction of a restaurant kitchen, the very thoughtful and character driven plot, and the satisfying resolution that didn't simplify a life lived carrying loss.
  
  Here's what I struggled with in the book the slow pacing at times, some details that seemed a bit incorrect considering the setting (and that I live where the book is set), and connecting to the protagonist.
  
  Even though this wasn't my favorite of his books, I'm still glad I read it. Adi is one of my favorite authors, and among a small group of whose work I will read no matter what. I can't wait to read his next novel.
• This book is about a young man named Carlos who is grieving for his brother Felix and trying to find his way in life. His way is through food and learning how to make delicious foods. Carlos can't believe that people actually get paid to make meals for others while they play with the art of food. During his creating and learning Carlos is still dealing with his brothers death and trying to remain sane even though he still sees Felix everywhere. He is also trying to hold onto the first girl he ever cared about while still balancing the best opportunity of a lifetime.
  
  I really liked Carlos and felt his loss and his loves. I had a hard time liking Chef and Emma. However, I am happy with the ending.
• I loved North of Happy, as well as all of Adi Alsaid's books! It is a great story with characters that you quickly connect with in one way or another. I finished it inspired to travel and have a delicious meal all at the same time. Great read all around)
• I have to say I never read the book, but the dog loved it!
• This is my favorite Adi Alsaid book so far (which is saying a lot because his other two are wonderful.) This book left me feeling hungry, inspired to cook more, and eager for his next book. A must read for anyone who likes food or books.
• Loved it!
• "The world is a much bigger place than you realize," he said with a smile. "We're going to explore it." - ARC of North of Happy
  
  Carlos Portillo lives in Mexico and has a close relationship with his brother, Felix. One of the things the brothers bonded over was finding the perfect taco. Over the course of a night, they would visit restaurants to find the perfect taco. However, things go astray and it ends up in Felix's death. Felix is the one who told Carlos to live life to its fullest and to explore the world. Don't just settle for what's in front of you but to get up and run with what you have to take it to the next level.
  
  Carlos follows Felix's words and travels to the United States to visit Provecho, a restaurant in Washington State that he's seen on TV prior him leaving Mexico. Felix is always with him giving him advice to follow his dreams. Carlos meets Emma who works at Provecho and she is his helping hand to introduce him to Provecho as well as Washington.
  
  The family dynamics is quite interesting in this book. Carlos follows the steps of his brother to explore to world. His mother tries to get him to come back home. Both parents are upset Carlos decided to get up and leave. But of course when family health is involve, Carlos will relocate back to his family
  
  I have been following Adi Alsaid's books since Let's Get Lost. By far North of Happy is my favorite novel written by Alsaid. With careful research about working on the line, he incorporated his love for food in the best way possible.
  
  Each chapter is titled after a recipe and includes the ingredients to make the recipe. I found this to be a very unique way to title and to introduce each chapter. Because the book is heavy on Carlos working his way up the line, food has an importance in the novel. Each recipe is significant to the plot of each chapter. Each chapter is a recipe of life.
  
  Reading North of Happy is like sampling the cuisine with Anthony Bourdain and Chef Ramsey. Maybe it might not be as intense but food is an essential to life. Food is the essence of what it means to be living and it's the substance that keeps us going. Many cultures bond over food during many events and gatherings. It fuels us. As Felix mentions, "You will feel full to your soul." "A taco that makes you hungry for life and that makes you feel like you have never been more alive. Nothing short of that will do."
  
  North of Happy will satisfy readers who love food, traveling and new beginnings. I can guarantee you that your mouth will be watering after reading this novel and your taste buds will be wanting to savor every chapter.