MEMOIR

No Country for Eight-Spot Butterflies: A Lyric Essay

by Julian Aguon
Astra House. Sept. 2022. 128p. ISBN 9781662601637. $23. MEMOIR
COPY ISBN
Aguon’s (The Properties of Perpetual Light) engaging book is a moving and impassioned read for anyone interested in world politics and environmental issues. This collection of essays, personal stories, speeches, and prose shines a light on the struggles of Guam, nuclear warfare, and global warming. In the title essay, Aguon, an Indigenous lawyer and activist from Guam, discusses the United States’ militarization and colonization of his home country. He also discusses the history of Guam’s struggles and provides an overview of current events in “Birthday Cake Means Birthdays,” “The Gift Anne Gave Me,” and “Reflections While Driving.” The author thoroughly describes the history of atrocities his country has been through and their current conflicts. While there are serious themes in this book, there is also plenty of hope.
VERDICT This short read packs a great deal of heart and promise for readers. Aguon has written both an informational and philosophical book that will please readers interested in environmental and political issues.
Reviewed by Anna Kallemeyn , Aug 01, 2022
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Homing: Instincts of a Rustbelt Feminist
by Flick, Sherrie
NONFICTION

Damn Glad To Meet You: My Seven Decades in the Hollywood Trenches
by Matheson, Tim
NONFICTION

I’m Laughing Because I’m Crying: A Memoir
by Mayer, Youngmi
NONFICTION

Cabin: Off the Grid Adventures with a Clueless Craftsman
by Hutchison, Patrick
NONFICTION

Growing Up Urkel
by White, Jaleel
NONFICTION

The Wall of Life: Pictures and Stories from This Marvelous Lifetime
by MacLaine, Shirley
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?