Due to a sudden, unexpected passing in the family a few years ago and another more recently and my subsequent (mental) health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for several years after the bereavements. This meant I didn't read or venture onto netgalley for years as not only did it remind me of that person as they shared my passion for reading, but I also struggled to maintain interest in anything due to overwhelming depression. I was therefore unable to download this title in time and so I couldn't give a review as it wasn't successfully acquired before it was archived. The second issue that has happened with some of my other books is that I had them downloaded to one particular device and said device is now defunct, so I have no access to those books anymore, sadly.

This means I can't leave an accurate reflection of my feelings towards the book as I am unable to read it now and so I am leaving a message of explanation instead. I am now back to reading and reviewing full time as once considerable time had passed I have found that books have been helping me significantly in terms of my mindset and mental health - this was after having no interest in anything for quite a number of years after the passings. Anything requested and approved will be read and a review written and posted to Amazon (where I am a Hall of Famer & Top Reviewer), Goodreads (where I have several thousand friends and the same amount who follow my reviews) and Waterstones (or Barnes & Noble if the publisher is American based). Thank you for the opportunity and apologies for the inconvenience.

The author recounts events and experiences from his life and reflects on how pivotal moments in history brought us to where we are now. Poignant at times, it is however an optimistic look at how we can change the future, no matter how bleak the past. Thought provoking and philosophical, it raises important points that we can no longer ignore. Essential reading for everyone.

Adrift has to be one of the most starkly beautiful, thought-provoking books that I have read in a long time. At times bleak and almost uncomfortable as it meditated on the state of the world today and how we got to this point, and where we could end up, we remain divided. There is a careful balance throughout this book, between philosophy, history and the author’s own personal narrative, and it works, because Maalouf never becomes too entrenched in the philosophy, keeping the book flowing and achingly relatable. However, ultimately there is a hopefulness to the writing, a determination that bled through the words, and I think that is why Adrift has such impact because it doesn’t shy away from the divisions and conflicts, but nor does it paint an utterly hopeless picture. This is a book that will stay with me for a while, and I would highly recommend it.