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The Clouds Beyond Us
A beautiful and eclectic mix of stories and poetry, as presented by new and exciting author Rahf AlRashidi. This collection of insights into the author's soul takes the reader on a melancholy journey of loss, heartache and ill treatment, whilst at once telling the story of strength and showing the joy to be found in the aftermath of sorrow. An inspirational read for women across the world.
- GenresPoetry
164 pages, Paperback
Published December 10, 2018
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13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 28, 2018
When the author contacted me and asked if I wanted to read and review her book, I have to admit it was not exactely in my confort zone. But I was intrigued by the blurb and the cover and I just had to give it a go.
And boy oh boy, I am so happy that I went for it. It is a vat filled with emotions. It is lovely and raw, heartbreaking and heartfelt. It is full of love and sadness, of hopes and dreams and of regret and disappointment.
She seems like a magician juggling with words to conjure metaphors and ending up with a beautiful story where love and pain were very palpable.
I am not a big fan of poetry because often I don't quite know what they are talking about, but this author introduced me to a kind of poetry I understand and really and totally can appreciate. 5 stars.
Thank you, Rahf Alrashidi.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
And boy oh boy, I am so happy that I went for it. It is a vat filled with emotions. It is lovely and raw, heartbreaking and heartfelt. It is full of love and sadness, of hopes and dreams and of regret and disappointment.
She seems like a magician juggling with words to conjure metaphors and ending up with a beautiful story where love and pain were very palpable.
I am not a big fan of poetry because often I don't quite know what they are talking about, but this author introduced me to a kind of poetry I understand and really and totally can appreciate. 5 stars.
Thank you, Rahf Alrashidi.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
February 9, 2019
My review is 4.5 stars.
I would definitely say this book is really a new kind that I have read. Instead of a sole story or a poetry book is a mix of both and definitely a good one. I really loved the poetry because I fell in love with them. They have a kind of gist in them that I really love. I felt that the book is something telling about the real story and not a fiction.
I loved it all the way through and I do wanna read something like this over and over again. I felt an instant connection with the book.
I would definitely say this book is really a new kind that I have read. Instead of a sole story or a poetry book is a mix of both and definitely a good one. I really loved the poetry because I fell in love with them. They have a kind of gist in them that I really love. I felt that the book is something telling about the real story and not a fiction.
I loved it all the way through and I do wanna read something like this over and over again. I felt an instant connection with the book.
January 8, 2019
I positively loved this book, and devoured it in just a few hours. I sincerely was sorry to reach the end. Many of the stories resonated within me at such a deep level, that I felt they could almost be called my own.
The Clouds Beyond Us is emotional, therapeutic, and highly inspirational.
I would give it 10 Stars if I could!
The Clouds Beyond Us is emotional, therapeutic, and highly inspirational.
I would give it 10 Stars if I could!
October 29, 2019
How do you judge a book that's been written by someone so deeply in love with life and writing? I loved going through the pages of this book. Having read this book, the author seems like a friend I know too well. I loved the chapter about the author's grandmother the most - a painfully beautiful story to live.
It's written in first person and most chapters are written to someone which created a sense of eagerness to know what happened to the second person, to know why they are not together and what separated them.
I could relate to the author's feeling about herself as she could see herself changing to someone stronger yet too different.
The words come directly from the author's heart and it's a lovely read. Owing to the title of the book, I read it during my flights across cities and I think it's best read in the air so that the reader can immerse their hearts in the clouds beyond us.
It's written in first person and most chapters are written to someone which created a sense of eagerness to know what happened to the second person, to know why they are not together and what separated them.
I could relate to the author's feeling about herself as she could see herself changing to someone stronger yet too different.
The words come directly from the author's heart and it's a lovely read. Owing to the title of the book, I read it during my flights across cities and I think it's best read in the air so that the reader can immerse their hearts in the clouds beyond us.
July 2, 2019
"As long as the sky revolves around us, the thought of you will continue revolving around me."
I felt this novel with a resonance that has stayed with me since finishing. The memory of the words, insight and inspiration, continue to revolve around me.
"I built my own lane, ran my own race and at my own pace."
The Clouds Beyond Us is a poignant anthology of this author's growth, memories, dreams and fears, held together with a spell-binding, tangible thread of hope. This novel will melt your heart, touch your soul, and give you pause for thought as you continue on with your life -- Rahf AlRashidi gave us a gift with The Clouds Beyond Us, savor it, let her perseverance inspire you. "Let things flow. Nothing happens randomly. It all connects, doesn’t it?"
February 19, 2019
Engaging, personal, emotional, a gem
From the moment I started reading, I could live the journey of this woman through her discoveries, appreciations for remarkable moments, and self value. It’s a very personal story with emotional ups and downs on her choices, values, and experiences. The narrative is quite engaging showing her view of the world. I felt deep empathy for her pain and scars, and great joy for her realizations. The lovely bits of poetry included in different places are full of heart and quite emotive. Despite little mishaps, it’s overall finely composed and polished. It was hard to put down even to get out of the bus.
From the moment I started reading, I could live the journey of this woman through her discoveries, appreciations for remarkable moments, and self value. It’s a very personal story with emotional ups and downs on her choices, values, and experiences. The narrative is quite engaging showing her view of the world. I felt deep empathy for her pain and scars, and great joy for her realizations. The lovely bits of poetry included in different places are full of heart and quite emotive. Despite little mishaps, it’s overall finely composed and polished. It was hard to put down even to get out of the bus.
March 5, 2019
It's the first time I read a book like this, and honestly I can say I enjoyed so much this book, it has stories that reach your heart.
It is really lovely. I'd never thought reading a book like this, and I'm so happy to have been able to do it. It is a beautiful experience.
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Es la primera vez que leo un libro como este, y honestamente puedo decir que disfruté tanto este libro, tiene historias que llegan a tu corazón.
Es realmente encantador Nunca había pensado en leer un libro como este, y estoy muy feliz de haber podido hacerlo. Es una hermosa experiencia.
It is really lovely. I'd never thought reading a book like this, and I'm so happy to have been able to do it. It is a beautiful experience.
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Es la primera vez que leo un libro como este, y honestamente puedo decir que disfruté tanto este libro, tiene historias que llegan a tu corazón.
Es realmente encantador Nunca había pensado en leer un libro como este, y estoy muy feliz de haber podido hacerlo. Es una hermosa experiencia.
January 22, 2019
First of all, I apologize if this is going to be so long. I'm scared of the fact that this book deserves more than a review. That I can never decipher the beauty of it into words. When I read the book, I feel as if I'd known her since forever, as if she's talking to me, just me. Her words touch my soul so deeply that it scares me, I do not want to finish the book, I want to live in it forever. The book is too precious. The stories are genuinely written by heart. I can never choose one, every chapter is my favorite.
Rahf inspires me in every possible way she could. Girls, this is the kind of motivation you need. You deserve this. The Clouds Beyond Us is not like any other books I've read before. I am in love with it. I know some might think I'm exaggerating, but I just can't help it. I promise one day, I will own a real copy of it, it's in my bucket list! The fact that this book deserves more saddened me, I wish I can introduce this book to the world. Everyone deserves to read it. And I know no amount of words will ever be enough to portray it. Thank you Rahf. Keep writing. The world needs you, beautiful soul.
Rahf inspires me in every possible way she could. Girls, this is the kind of motivation you need. You deserve this. The Clouds Beyond Us is not like any other books I've read before. I am in love with it. I know some might think I'm exaggerating, but I just can't help it. I promise one day, I will own a real copy of it, it's in my bucket list! The fact that this book deserves more saddened me, I wish I can introduce this book to the world. Everyone deserves to read it. And I know no amount of words will ever be enough to portray it. Thank you Rahf. Keep writing. The world needs you, beautiful soul.
March 25, 2019
I usually don’t like reviewing poetry and short stories based on the author’s life. But, this books was so different, unlike anything I had ever read.
Each story is full of emotion, ranging from sad to happy, nostalgic to torturous. Through the book t felt as if I was speaking with an old friend. It truly felt as if the author poured her heart and soul into this book.
I found myself highlighting many sections or taking notes on my favorite parts. I’ll add a few favorite quotes at the end!
Each piece, tells stories about romance, self acceptance, and how difficult life can be sometimes. Something I do want to say is that the short story called Transformative Experience, has a portion about sexual assault, so please be aware of that when reading!
I liked to take my time with this book. I didn’t want to read it in a quick week. In a way I wanted absorb all I could as the book went on. I think that if I had read it as quickly as I could, I wouldn’t have had the same experience. I truly do recommend you give it a try! It was a fantastic experience, I hope to reread it some time soon!
Each story is full of emotion, ranging from sad to happy, nostalgic to torturous. Through the book t felt as if I was speaking with an old friend. It truly felt as if the author poured her heart and soul into this book.
I found myself highlighting many sections or taking notes on my favorite parts. I’ll add a few favorite quotes at the end!
Each piece, tells stories about romance, self acceptance, and how difficult life can be sometimes. Something I do want to say is that the short story called Transformative Experience, has a portion about sexual assault, so please be aware of that when reading!
I liked to take my time with this book. I didn’t want to read it in a quick week. In a way I wanted absorb all I could as the book went on. I think that if I had read it as quickly as I could, I wouldn’t have had the same experience. I truly do recommend you give it a try! It was a fantastic experience, I hope to reread it some time soon!
March 23, 2019
I love a book that includes lots of different stories to delve in and out of. The collection is truly stunning, and Alrashidi has a true passion for what she writes about. I’m not always excited about reading stories and poetry on love, pain and heartbreak, but the stories are so moving, touching and eye-opening.
The book was what I like to describe as ‘perfect Sunday morning reading’. It didn’t leave me feeling glum and full of questions. It made me want to get up, get out and put some beautiful music on.
Alrashidi writes in a completely translucent tone that leaves no guessing, no doubting and no confusion. I would like to think that if I released a book one day, then it would be inspired by the truth that she puts into her story-telling.
I would recommend this book to anyone that wants a ‘pick-me-up’ and something that will leave them feeling refreshed and pure. And don’t worry if you’re not a big fan of poetry! Alrashidi makes poetry understandable with absolutely no jargon!
The book was what I like to describe as ‘perfect Sunday morning reading’. It didn’t leave me feeling glum and full of questions. It made me want to get up, get out and put some beautiful music on.
Alrashidi writes in a completely translucent tone that leaves no guessing, no doubting and no confusion. I would like to think that if I released a book one day, then it would be inspired by the truth that she puts into her story-telling.
I would recommend this book to anyone that wants a ‘pick-me-up’ and something that will leave them feeling refreshed and pure. And don’t worry if you’re not a big fan of poetry! Alrashidi makes poetry understandable with absolutely no jargon!
February 28, 2019
one thing i didn't like much. The medical terms. Over all it's like a dive. Deep into better understanding of how women shape their feeling around a tragic loss,
I've given you a part of my soul
And yet
You wanted it all
You wanted me scattered
At your feet
You wanted me feeling lost
Even when I'm in your arms
I've given you my all
Nevertheless
It was never enough
I wish to see through your eyes
What I have become
A silhouette
Ghostly roaming The world
I've lost traces of myself
Tracking you
Selflessly I've tried to please you
Selfishly you ran under the dark of night
I will write about you
Till you're out of my system
I've given you a part of my soul
And yet
You wanted it all
You wanted me scattered
At your feet
You wanted me feeling lost
Even when I'm in your arms
I've given you my all
Nevertheless
It was never enough
I wish to see through your eyes
What I have become
A silhouette
Ghostly roaming The world
I've lost traces of myself
Tracking you
Selflessly I've tried to please you
Selfishly you ran under the dark of night
I will write about you
Till you're out of my system
March 31, 2019
The Clouds Beyond Us is a beautiful collection of stories and poetry - not what I would usually go for, but I really enjoyed it and would recommend to anyone. Rahf AlRashidi has a unique writing style, blending creative and flowing eloquence with medical terms and descriptions, and the book was a real insight into her life so far and the relationships that she has struggled through. Absolutely loved it!
You can read my full review here:
https://pagesplacesandplates.wordpres...
You can read my full review here:
https://pagesplacesandplates.wordpres...
April 10, 2019
This is a beautiful book full of short stories, poems and musings, all wrapped up to form a lovely compilation. The author takes us on a journey through her head with stories that are sometimes emotional, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes inspiring. All of them connect with the reader's soul in the place where our inner voice and inner fears/beliefs/doubts/happiness lies. I found it quite remarkable and think it's a great addition to the shelf of a traveler, searcher, wanderer or just someone who wants to peer inside themselves for a bit. Very well done!
June 3, 2019
Interesting, but a tad gloomy.
A thought provoking read, there were many intriguing parts and just as many that were sad and upsetting. A note of hope underscored quite a few of the selections, but for all its short length "The Clouds Beyond Us" is rather heavy reading, and I found myself having to take the work in small chunks.
Some of the reflections I profoundly disagreed with, and some of them aligned with sentiments and values I appreciate, but each section left me with a lot to think about, and I'd recommend the book to anyone who enjoys meditative readings.
A thought provoking read, there were many intriguing parts and just as many that were sad and upsetting. A note of hope underscored quite a few of the selections, but for all its short length "The Clouds Beyond Us" is rather heavy reading, and I found myself having to take the work in small chunks.
Some of the reflections I profoundly disagreed with, and some of them aligned with sentiments and values I appreciate, but each section left me with a lot to think about, and I'd recommend the book to anyone who enjoys meditative readings.
April 8, 2020
The multiple stories told poetically washed me along its sea of emotions and pain.
It was as if I felt the struggles that the person in each story went through. The heartache, thoughts, worries, phases, and lessons were all written not just to tell but also to advise the readers. It brings a different sense of comfort to those going through something similar.
This book was a form of escape and support.
It was as if I felt the struggles that the person in each story went through. The heartache, thoughts, worries, phases, and lessons were all written not just to tell but also to advise the readers. It brings a different sense of comfort to those going through something similar.
This book was a form of escape and support.
February 20, 2019
I knew about this incredible book from the writing community on Twitter. This is a kind of book I would read over and over again. This is a kind of a book that your brain and heart will thank you for reading. It has a collection of aspiring short stories and some poetry. I highly recommend this multi-genre book for all men and women of all ages.
March 13, 2019
This is not my usual kind of read at all, but when I was invited to read and review it as part of the blog tour I was intrigued to see what it was like. And it was simply wonderful! A blend of short stories and poetry, it was beautifully written and at times I was moved beyond words. A lovely, heartfelt read that I would recommend.
My full review will be posted as part of the blog tour soon.
My full review will be posted as part of the blog tour soon.
February 26, 2019
a must read book.
March 24, 2019
I have to say from the beginning that this has been one of the most difficult reviews I’ve had to write, because I feel any sentences I create won’t be sufficient to convey my feelings for this book. It’s a completely unique book and unlike anything I have ever read before. If I’m completely honest it’s not the usual genre I would choose, but I adored it from start to finish.
The book is made up of a series of short stories and poems all written in the first person and it’s evident immediately how much of her heart and soul author Rahf has poured into each and every page. The raw emotion contained in every chapter resonates off the page giving it a really personal, intimate feel as if you are climbing inside someone’s mind. Even though each chapter has its own identity and message they all flow perfectly together building to form something extremely special.
So many of the incidents, thoughts and feelings within this book’s pages were relatable to me and I am sure that they will be for many other readers out there too. Rahf has a wonderful writing style that although extremely descriptive, flows well making it a joy to read. I really enjoyed the medical references and analogies that she littered throughout the text too that pay homage to her years of medical training, I found them extremely interesting to read and they were perfectly placed to illustrate her points. Rahf’s passion for writing is evident throughout, making it an absolute pleasure to read.
Whilst a reasonably short read this emotive book is jam packed with a bit of everything including hope, regret, sadness and love which helps to shine the spotlight onto your own life making you reflect on your own life choices. I can’t recommend this book highly enough, there’s something everyone will be able to relate to within its thought-provoking pages. This is one of the few books whose words have stayed with me for weeks after finishing it and I will certainly be taking the time to re-read in the future – I loved every second.
The book is made up of a series of short stories and poems all written in the first person and it’s evident immediately how much of her heart and soul author Rahf has poured into each and every page. The raw emotion contained in every chapter resonates off the page giving it a really personal, intimate feel as if you are climbing inside someone’s mind. Even though each chapter has its own identity and message they all flow perfectly together building to form something extremely special.
So many of the incidents, thoughts and feelings within this book’s pages were relatable to me and I am sure that they will be for many other readers out there too. Rahf has a wonderful writing style that although extremely descriptive, flows well making it a joy to read. I really enjoyed the medical references and analogies that she littered throughout the text too that pay homage to her years of medical training, I found them extremely interesting to read and they were perfectly placed to illustrate her points. Rahf’s passion for writing is evident throughout, making it an absolute pleasure to read.
Whilst a reasonably short read this emotive book is jam packed with a bit of everything including hope, regret, sadness and love which helps to shine the spotlight onto your own life making you reflect on your own life choices. I can’t recommend this book highly enough, there’s something everyone will be able to relate to within its thought-provoking pages. This is one of the few books whose words have stayed with me for weeks after finishing it and I will certainly be taking the time to re-read in the future – I loved every second.
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