Some of you in years past have expressed disappointment that the Adult Summer Reading Club never actually meets, other than at the End-of-Summer Party.
Join us on Friday, July 23rd, at 10 am in the meeting room of the Headquarters Library for a Book Talk meeting, to hear about some great titles, new and old, and to talk about any books you'd like to recommend to others. We will also have an optional book swap at this meeting; if you have a good book you don't mind parting with, bring it along for the swap.
We hope you are enjoying the "Just Jennifer" entries and you are getting excited about these upcoming titles. The "Just Jennifer" review copies starting with The Quickening and going through the latest "Just Jennifer" review before July 23 will go as door prizes at the Book Talk meeting, rather than to commenters. Feel free to continue commenting, though!
Please call the Reference Desk at 788-1434 if you are planning to attend the Book Talk, so that we'll have an idea of how many chairs to set up.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Congratulations to...
... patco81, who won the review copy of Still Missing. Thanks to all who commented on "Just Jennifer!"
Just Jennifer
What could be more perfect than a wedding in early July on the coast of Maine Manhattan
Blue-Eyed Devil
Author: Robert B. Parker
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
Pithy, violent, a gunman who is strangely moral.
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
Pithy, violent, a gunman who is strangely moral.
The Invention of Everything Else
Author: Samantha Hunt
Stars: 1
Review by: JamBob
There is something special about an inventor's mind and in particular Nikola Tesla's. He gave us electricity, yes he did as he fought with Edison over AC or DC current and won.... Tesla and Westinghouse lit up the Columbian Exposition in Chicago 1893. There is so much to know about this man but unfortunately this book does not give him the recognition he deserves. It is a fictional work about Tesla that is 90% about the people surrounding his life than about him which is why I do not recommend you read this book, but I encourage everyone to learn more about the man and the times he illuminated.
Stars: 1
Review by: JamBob
There is something special about an inventor's mind and in particular Nikola Tesla's. He gave us electricity, yes he did as he fought with Edison over AC or DC current and won.... Tesla and Westinghouse lit up the Columbian Exposition in Chicago 1893. There is so much to know about this man but unfortunately this book does not give him the recognition he deserves. It is a fictional work about Tesla that is 90% about the people surrounding his life than about him which is why I do not recommend you read this book, but I encourage everyone to learn more about the man and the times he illuminated.
The One That I Want
Author: Allison Winn Scotch
Stars: 1
Review by: ADAR
I did not even finish listening to this book that is how bad it was. I can usually listen to anything in the car.
Stars: 1
Review by: ADAR
I did not even finish listening to this book that is how bad it was. I can usually listen to anything in the car.
The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest
Author: Stieg Larsson
Stars: 5
Review by: Big Da
A long book, and I fully intended to skim thru it. But instead, I read every word, and couldn't put it down. One of the best.
Stars: 5
Review by: Big Da
A long book, and I fully intended to skim thru it. But instead, I read every word, and couldn't put it down. One of the best.
Hachiko
Author: Pamela S. Turner
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
A very sweet, very true story about the loyalty a dog feels for its owner. My son had told me this story and I know that a film was made with the actor Richard Gere but I wanted to read the real Japanese story of this Akita dog, Hachiko, whose statue stands in the Shibuya train station. Hachiko is a hero, much in the same way as Balto, the sled dog, is a national hero. You will love this short story.
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
A very sweet, very true story about the loyalty a dog feels for its owner. My son had told me this story and I know that a film was made with the actor Richard Gere but I wanted to read the real Japanese story of this Akita dog, Hachiko, whose statue stands in the Shibuya train station. Hachiko is a hero, much in the same way as Balto, the sled dog, is a national hero. You will love this short story.
This Body of Death
Author: Elizabeth George
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
She has written another great mystery. The characters are interesting and the plot holds many surprises.
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
She has written another great mystery. The characters are interesting and the plot holds many surprises.
The Cradle
Author: Patricia Somerville
Stars: 3
Review by: readsalot
Sort of a strange story and a disappointing ending.
Stars: 3
Review by: readsalot
Sort of a strange story and a disappointing ending.
The Aloha Quilt
Author: Jennifer Chiaverini
Stars: 3
Review by: readsalot
I enjoy this series and this story in particular. Taking place in Hawaii the author makes you feel as if you are right there with the characters in the way she describes the state.
Stars: 3
Review by: readsalot
I enjoy this series and this story in particular. Taking place in Hawaii the author makes you feel as if you are right there with the characters in the way she describes the state.
Dead and Berried
Author: Karen MacInerney
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A murder mystery that isn't too gory, and a romance that isn't too smutty...perfect!
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A murder mystery that isn't too gory, and a romance that isn't too smutty...perfect!
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Author: Stieg Larsson
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Slow start and a bit confusing, but get through it because this book is worth the read. Great characters, interesting plot, mystery to be solved... I also liked how the story wrapped up the loose ends from the beginning.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Slow start and a bit confusing, but get through it because this book is worth the read. Great characters, interesting plot, mystery to be solved... I also liked how the story wrapped up the loose ends from the beginning.
An Eagle Named Freedom
Author: Jeff Guidry
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
This was a most inspiring book and had many stories within it. What impressed me most, was what one man was able to do, to change the world, despite battling cancer at the same time.
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
This was a most inspiring book and had many stories within it. What impressed me most, was what one man was able to do, to change the world, despite battling cancer at the same time.
Bedlam: The Further Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte
Author: Laura Rowland
Stars: 5
Review by: Page Turner
The sequel to The Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte finds her involved in a search for the ultimate weapon and her quest to save her lover's life.
Stars: 5
Review by: Page Turner
The sequel to The Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte finds her involved in a search for the ultimate weapon and her quest to save her lover's life.
The Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte
Author: Laura Rowland
Stars: 5
Review by: Page Turner
Charlotte Bronte, a noted authoress, becomes involved in a plot to kidnap Queen Victoria's children. Adventure, intrigue and espionage follows this young sleuth as she tries to uncover the mastermind behind this crime.
Stars: 5
Review by: Page Turner
Charlotte Bronte, a noted authoress, becomes involved in a plot to kidnap Queen Victoria's children. Adventure, intrigue and espionage follows this young sleuth as she tries to uncover the mastermind behind this crime.
Knit in Comfort
Author: Isabel Sharpe
Stars: 2
Review by: Tartu
The writing was awkward in places and the characters never really came together.
Stars: 2
Review by: Tartu
The writing was awkward in places and the characters never really came together.
The Mother-Daughter Book Club
Author: Heather Vogel Frederick
Stars: 4
Review by: Karen
A good book for any moms looking to share a summer read with a middle school daughter.
Stars: 4
Review by: Karen
A good book for any moms looking to share a summer read with a middle school daughter.
Shiver
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Stars: 4
Review by: cocoran
The pace of this book starts off very slow, laying the foundation for the story, and the writing is in a very minimalist style. This is a story about werewolves and is very well written with well developed characters. Shiver is targeted for teens, but I enjoyed reading it, too.
Stars: 4
Review by: cocoran
The pace of this book starts off very slow, laying the foundation for the story, and the writing is in a very minimalist style. This is a story about werewolves and is very well written with well developed characters. Shiver is targeted for teens, but I enjoyed reading it, too.
The Moon Is Down
Author: John Steinbeck
Stars: 4
Review by: nanibev
In this short, powerful story Steinbeck reminds us of our human desire for freedom and what we are willing to pay for it. A good book to keep on our re-read shelf.
Stars: 4
Review by: nanibev
In this short, powerful story Steinbeck reminds us of our human desire for freedom and what we are willing to pay for it. A good book to keep on our re-read shelf.
Murder on the Cliffs: A Mystery Featuring Daphne du Maurier
Author: Joanna Challis
Stars: 4
Review by: JamBob
Echoes of Manderley.....the haunting prequel to Rebecca in the imagination of this author. A young Daphne becomes enmeshed in a murder mystery on the cliffs of Cornwall. There rests a house shrouded in mystery and secrets.....and the murder of a beautiful young woamn with secrets of her own. Herein you will read names and images that coalesce into the renowned Rebecca written by Daphne later in life. A clever pastiche of intrigue and a haunting premonition of the greater mystery embodied in Rebecca.....
Stars: 4
Review by: JamBob
Echoes of Manderley.....the haunting prequel to Rebecca in the imagination of this author. A young Daphne becomes enmeshed in a murder mystery on the cliffs of Cornwall. There rests a house shrouded in mystery and secrets.....and the murder of a beautiful young woamn with secrets of her own. Herein you will read names and images that coalesce into the renowned Rebecca written by Daphne later in life. A clever pastiche of intrigue and a haunting premonition of the greater mystery embodied in Rebecca.....
The Liar's Club
Author: Mary Karr
Stars: 3
Review by: Jackie K.
This was a memoir of a girl growing up in Texas. It's one of those memoirs that is both funny but so sad at the same time. It was ok but I couldn't wait for it to end so I could read something else. It couldn't compete with The Glass Castle which is one of my favorite memoirs (one of my favorite books, actually, of the past few years).
Stars: 3
Review by: Jackie K.
This was a memoir of a girl growing up in Texas. It's one of those memoirs that is both funny but so sad at the same time. It was ok but I couldn't wait for it to end so I could read something else. It couldn't compete with The Glass Castle which is one of my favorite memoirs (one of my favorite books, actually, of the past few years).
The Kite Runner
Author: Khaled Hosseini
Stars: 5
Review by: Fernanda L.
An amazing story. Not for the weak of stomach, lots of descriptive violence.
Stars: 5
Review by: Fernanda L.
An amazing story. Not for the weak of stomach, lots of descriptive violence.
Lucid Intervals
Author: Stuart Woods
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
Formulaic, with the usual Stone Barrington humor.
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
Formulaic, with the usual Stone Barrington humor.
Solar
Author: Ian McEwan
Stars: 5
Review by: newretiree
Wonderfully written and very funny at times. The main character is not a nice man, very selfish and infantile, and that's actually half the fun. Especially hearing him rationalize his poor behavior. There are some paragraphs devoted to physics -- he eventually gets involved in solar power research -- but don't let that put you off. You can skim it without missing a thing.
Stars: 5
Review by: newretiree
Wonderfully written and very funny at times. The main character is not a nice man, very selfish and infantile, and that's actually half the fun. Especially hearing him rationalize his poor behavior. There are some paragraphs devoted to physics -- he eventually gets involved in solar power research -- but don't let that put you off. You can skim it without missing a thing.
The Three Weissmanns of Westport
Author: Cathleen Schine
Stars: 5
Review by: Library Aimee
A frothy and unpredictable delight!
Stars: 5
Review by: Library Aimee
A frothy and unpredictable delight!
Congratulations to...
... bookwormmoma, who won the review copy of Perfect Reader. Thank you to all who commented on Just Jennifer.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Every Last One
Author: Anna Quindlen
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
I enjoyed it but it was not enjoyable. It was very sad so if you are not into sad, do not read.
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
I enjoyed it but it was not enjoyable. It was very sad so if you are not into sad, do not read.
The Burglar in the Closet
Author: Lawrence Block
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
Imagine that - the lovable main character, Bernie, is a criminal! This is the first Lawrence Block book I've read; how cleverly he makes us love a burglar! A funny, light mystery that even a non-mystery-reader such as myself enjoyed.
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
Imagine that - the lovable main character, Bernie, is a criminal! This is the first Lawrence Block book I've read; how cleverly he makes us love a burglar! A funny, light mystery that even a non-mystery-reader such as myself enjoyed.
The Red Thread
Author: Ann Hood
Stars: 5
Review by: Lin
A novel which follows families adopting a baby from China and those in China giving up their babies. A fast read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Lin
A novel which follows families adopting a baby from China and those in China giving up their babies. A fast read.
Congratulations to...
... LateNightReader, who won the review copy of The Nobodies Album. Thank you to all who commented on Just Jennifer.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Just Jennifer
Told through a series of sessions with a therapist, relating current events with flashbacks, Annie O’Sullivan begins to return to some modicum of normalcy after having been kidnapped and held hostage in a rural cabin on Vancouver Island for almost a year. The year of emotional and physical abuse Annie endured is heart-wrenching enough, but her attempts to return to her old life, and what she learns as the investigation of her abduction progresses, only heighten these feelings and bring the terror more into focus. Parts of the novel are graphic, but the underlying psychological damage that is occurring is even more horrifying. Chevy Stevens deftly captures the pure terror Annie feels while in captivy and distinguishes it from the new terror Annie feels when she returns home. This is an exceptional debut.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Britten and Brulightly
Author: Hannah Berry
Stars: 4
Review by: Library Aimee
A graphic novel murder mystery...sly, engaging, and beautifully drawn.
Stars: 4
Review by: Library Aimee
A graphic novel murder mystery...sly, engaging, and beautifully drawn.
The Secret of the Old Clock
Author: Carolyn Keene
Stars: 4
Review by: BookWorm2
I vowed to read at least 20 of these books this year. Good story, but I found the writing a little disappointing.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookWorm2
I vowed to read at least 20 of these books this year. Good story, but I found the writing a little disappointing.
Smooth Talking Stranger
Author: Lisa Kleypas
Stars: 4
Review by: Kee Read
Part romance, part mysterious....Highly readable and a quick read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Kee Read
Part romance, part mysterious....Highly readable and a quick read.
The Spellman Files
Author: Lisa Lutz
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read
If you like Janet Evanovich, you'll enjoy this book. Good story line and funny!
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read
If you like Janet Evanovich, you'll enjoy this book. Good story line and funny!
Vision in White
Author: Nora Roberts
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read
This is the first of three books in a series. It is also the first Nora Roberts novel I've read. I liked the story line of the 4 friends running a wedding business. I am anxiously awaiting for my turn for the second book, Bed of Roses!
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read
This is the first of three books in a series. It is also the first Nora Roberts novel I've read. I liked the story line of the 4 friends running a wedding business. I am anxiously awaiting for my turn for the second book, Bed of Roses!
Leisure Seeker
Author: Michael Zadoorian
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read
This book is about an elderly couple who are sick of doctor appointments and of their adult children telling them what to do. They buy an RV and drive away from their old life. The man has the beginnings of Alzhiemer's and she has cancer. This book made me both laugh and cry. A terrific read!
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read
This book is about an elderly couple who are sick of doctor appointments and of their adult children telling them what to do. They buy an RV and drive away from their old life. The man has the beginnings of Alzhiemer's and she has cancer. This book made me both laugh and cry. A terrific read!
The Help
Author: Kathryn Stockett
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
I first found out about this book from the 2009 Adult Summer Reading Club member reviews, and I put it on my To-Read list. I finally got around to it. I was so amazed that it is still high on the New York Times bestseller list, one year later! In fact, it's been on the list for 60 weeks!
I LOVED this book!!! First-time author Kathryn Stockett has absolutely made a name for herself. I am very anxious to see what she'll write next.
The plot revolves around "colored" maids of white families in Jackson, Mississippi, in the early 1960s. I won't give away any more than that. Let me just say that I am amazed and appalled that such shameful behavior was still going on during my lifetime. I hope to God that we, as American people, are above this today.
The absolute strengths of this book are Stockett's characters, dialogue, captivating storytelling, and literary suspense. In fact, when I discussed this book with my book group, someone asked who everyone's favorite character was. Half an hour later, people were still talking about their favorite characters; it was so hard to choose a favorite! Everyone agreed on the villain, who was lots of fun to talk about!
Thank you, bibliophiles, patco81, ddlesmom, Carol, ADAR, Jelsey, Liz, and Judyangel, for reviewing this book last summer and putting it on my radar!
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
I first found out about this book from the 2009 Adult Summer Reading Club member reviews, and I put it on my To-Read list. I finally got around to it. I was so amazed that it is still high on the New York Times bestseller list, one year later! In fact, it's been on the list for 60 weeks!
I LOVED this book!!! First-time author Kathryn Stockett has absolutely made a name for herself. I am very anxious to see what she'll write next.
The plot revolves around "colored" maids of white families in Jackson, Mississippi, in the early 1960s. I won't give away any more than that. Let me just say that I am amazed and appalled that such shameful behavior was still going on during my lifetime. I hope to God that we, as American people, are above this today.
The absolute strengths of this book are Stockett's characters, dialogue, captivating storytelling, and literary suspense. In fact, when I discussed this book with my book group, someone asked who everyone's favorite character was. Half an hour later, people were still talking about their favorite characters; it was so hard to choose a favorite! Everyone agreed on the villain, who was lots of fun to talk about!
Thank you, bibliophiles, patco81, ddlesmom, Carol, ADAR, Jelsey, Liz, and Judyangel, for reviewing this book last summer and putting it on my radar!
Whacked
Author: Jules Asner
Stars: 3
Review by: readsalot
This is a fun wacky story - great for the beach
Stars: 3
Review by: readsalot
This is a fun wacky story - great for the beach
Heart of the Matter
Author: Emily Giffin
Stars: 5
Review by: readsalot
This is Giffin at her best again. A story about love, heartache, friendship, forgiveness and what really matters most.
Stars: 5
Review by: readsalot
This is Giffin at her best again. A story about love, heartache, friendship, forgiveness and what really matters most.
Star in the Middle
Author: Carol Larese Millward
Stars: 4!
Review by: babygirlshaina
It was a really good young adult book!
Stars: 4!
Review by: babygirlshaina
It was a really good young adult book!
Good Omens
Author: Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett
Stars: 5
Review by: nanibev
This is both hilarious and thought provoking. It's good to be able to laugh while getting some great, and frequently sad, insights into the human race.
Stars: 5
Review by: nanibev
This is both hilarious and thought provoking. It's good to be able to laugh while getting some great, and frequently sad, insights into the human race.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The Girl Who Played with Fire
Author: Stieg Larsson
Stars: 4
Review by: Spring J
This is the second book in the Stieg Larsson series. The first, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, was good. Fire is even better, don't even try to read it before bed you will not be able to put it down. Can't wait for the final one The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest.
Stars: 4
Review by: Spring J
This is the second book in the Stieg Larsson series. The first, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, was good. Fire is even better, don't even try to read it before bed you will not be able to put it down. Can't wait for the final one The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest.
Noah's Compass
Author: Ann Tyler
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
The normal and unexceptional made into an interesting read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
The normal and unexceptional made into an interesting read.
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand
Author: Helen Simonsen
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
What is it with you, Vince? That's the second book by a woman that have read this summer.
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
What is it with you, Vince? That's the second book by a woman that have read this summer.
Deliver Us from Evil
Author: David Baldacci
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Progressive tension to a "Deus Ex Machina" climax
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Progressive tension to a "Deus Ex Machina" climax
Just Jennifer
The Perfect Reader by Maggie Pouncey (Pantheon, June 15, 2010)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas
Author: James Patterson
Stars: 5!!!
Review by: babygirlshaina
I absolutely LOVED this book!
Not only did it make me cry but it made me laugh and smile i greatly enjoyed it!
I also love how he mentions other authors in here. Truly was an amazing book! I recommend it to all!
Stars: 5!!!
Review by: babygirlshaina
I absolutely LOVED this book!
Not only did it make me cry but it made me laugh and smile i greatly enjoyed it!
I also love how he mentions other authors in here. Truly was an amazing book! I recommend it to all!
How to Read Literature Like a Professor
Author: Thomas C. Foster
Stars: 3
Review by: Spring J
Makes me want to study more literature in my free time. Will there ever be enough time to read all the books on my list? This book comes with a reading list in back and I found the insights helpful.
Stars: 3
Review by: Spring J
Makes me want to study more literature in my free time. Will there ever be enough time to read all the books on my list? This book comes with a reading list in back and I found the insights helpful.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Homer's Odyssey
Author: Gwen Cooper
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Life lessons learned, by the twenty-something author, from a blind cat adopted as a kitten from a shelter. An amazing cat. An enjoyable read.
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Life lessons learned, by the twenty-something author, from a blind cat adopted as a kitten from a shelter. An amazing cat. An enjoyable read.
Return to Sender
Author: Fern Michaels
Stars: 2.5
Review by: KAD
Very disappointed with story line and character development. Didn't tie up all loose ends.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: KAD
Very disappointed with story line and character development. Didn't tie up all loose ends.
Apollo's Song
Author: Osamu Tezuka
Stars: 5
Review by: Elaine
An engaging graphic novel by the godfather of manga comics.
Stars: 5
Review by: Elaine
An engaging graphic novel by the godfather of manga comics.
Just Jennifer
In this metafictional work, best-selling author Olivia Frost has written the last chapters of all her previous novels and combined them into one work. On the day she is to deliver her manuscript to her editor, she learns that her rock star son, Milo, from whom she has been estranged for several years, is under arrest for the murder of his girlfriend, Bettina. Milo and Olivia had a difficult relationship for most of their lives, but especially since a tragic accident in which his father and sister were killed. Unsure what to do, Olivia flies to San Francisco to be at Milo’s side and to look for his forgiveness and to mend the wrongs that have been committed. Olivia’s rewrites are interspersed with current day chapters, slowly giving clues about the accident and what may have caused the mother/son rift. As Olivia and Milo work toward a renewed relationship, much of Milo’s recent life is revealed with surprising consequences. A highly emotional story, The Nobodies Album tells the story of a family in distress and how families often heal themselves. There is also an element of mystery to the plot as mother and son work together to uncover the truth behind Bettina’s death.
Congratulations to...
... L.Z., who won the copy of The One That I Want! Thank you to all those who commented on "Just Jennifer." **** Please remember to include your club alias along with your comments! ****
Friday, June 11, 2010
The Silent Man
Author: Alex Berenson
Stars: 4
Review by: Page Turner
Third in the series of CIA Agent and spy, John Wells, the novel is an up-to-date thriller involving Al-Qaeda, nuclear weapons, espionage and murder!
Stars: 4
Review by: Page Turner
Third in the series of CIA Agent and spy, John Wells, the novel is an up-to-date thriller involving Al-Qaeda, nuclear weapons, espionage and murder!
Life of Pi
Author: Yann Martel
Stars: 5
Review by: Nancy W
Very well written book. Won Man Booker Prize in 2002. About the unlikely tale of a boy and a tiget in a lifeboat.
Stars: 5
Review by: Nancy W
Very well written book. Won Man Booker Prize in 2002. About the unlikely tale of a boy and a tiget in a lifeboat.
Live Your Dreams
Author: Les Brown
Stars: 2
Review by: RjS
I like Les Brown and have enjoyed many of the quotations he has authored like "Reach for the Moon-Even if you miss, you will land among the stars." While this book is full of many good things and Les Brown has a very good sense of humor, the book is a bit disconnected and that is unfortunate as, the author seems to be powerful in his presentation. I think he must be a phenomenal presenter but as an author, well, I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought I would.
Stars: 2
Review by: RjS
I like Les Brown and have enjoyed many of the quotations he has authored like "Reach for the Moon-Even if you miss, you will land among the stars." While this book is full of many good things and Les Brown has a very good sense of humor, the book is a bit disconnected and that is unfortunate as, the author seems to be powerful in his presentation. I think he must be a phenomenal presenter but as an author, well, I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought I would.
The Great Gatsby
Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Stars: 4
Review by: Fernanda L.
Having read this in high school I am now mature enough to fully appreciate it. Fitzgerald's language is beautiful at times. A unique love story with a flashy background.
Stars: 4
Review by: Fernanda L.
Having read this in high school I am now mature enough to fully appreciate it. Fitzgerald's language is beautiful at times. A unique love story with a flashy background.
Peony in Love
Author: Lisa See
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Although a little slow to start, this historically based story provided an interesting look at Chinese women poets, culture, and religious beliefs. Well worth it.
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Although a little slow to start, this historically based story provided an interesting look at Chinese women poets, culture, and religious beliefs. Well worth it.
Never Let Me Go
Author: Kazuo Ishiguro
Stars: 5
Review by: smudge
An excellent story that slowly unfolds all the time pulling you in.
Stars: 5
Review by: smudge
An excellent story that slowly unfolds all the time pulling you in.
Water for Elephants
Author: Sara Gruen
Stars: 4
Review by: njvera
Story of circus life c.1930's from perspective of 93 year old main character, with interesting twist and accurate view of nursing home life.
Stars: 4
Review by: njvera
Story of circus life c.1930's from perspective of 93 year old main character, with interesting twist and accurate view of nursing home life.
A Gate at the Stairs
Author: Lorrie Moore
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
A thoughtful novel that traces a college year in the life of a Midwestern girl shortly after the events of September 11th as she experiences her first love, the death of a close family member and spends time with a woman who wishes to adopt a child but who has a secret past and somewhat erratic present. Graceful prose.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
A thoughtful novel that traces a college year in the life of a Midwestern girl shortly after the events of September 11th as she experiences her first love, the death of a close family member and spends time with a woman who wishes to adopt a child but who has a secret past and somewhat erratic present. Graceful prose.
Pretty in Ink
Author: Karen E. Olson
Stars: 4.5
Review by: L.Z.
Super fun book! I couldn't put it down. Even better than the first one in this series.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: L.Z.
Super fun book! I couldn't put it down. Even better than the first one in this series.
A Thousand Days in Venice
Author: Marlena de Blasi
Stars: 3.5
Review by: JamBob
Want to spend some time in Italy but cannot afford a tour? Read a true story about Venice through the eyes of a middle-aged new bride who unexpectedly marries a Venetian. Love comes upon her during a business trip. She is an American from St. Louis who ups and changes her life for a blueberried eyed Italian who lives in the magical city of Venice. Marlena is a chef and food critic so the book has many references to delicious meals and some recipes in the back. Fall in love again and immerse yourself in Italian culture as you float through her book and along the romantic canals.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: JamBob
Want to spend some time in Italy but cannot afford a tour? Read a true story about Venice through the eyes of a middle-aged new bride who unexpectedly marries a Venetian. Love comes upon her during a business trip. She is an American from St. Louis who ups and changes her life for a blueberried eyed Italian who lives in the magical city of Venice. Marlena is a chef and food critic so the book has many references to delicious meals and some recipes in the back. Fall in love again and immerse yourself in Italian culture as you float through her book and along the romantic canals.
Deception
Author: Jonathan Kellerman
Stars: 4
Review by: Judy M.
Another Alex Delaware book and it is fun to meet the same characters.
Stars: 4
Review by: Judy M.
Another Alex Delaware book and it is fun to meet the same characters.
Congratulations to...
... Fernanda L., who won the copy of Life After Yes! Thank you to all those who commented on "Just Jennifer." **** Please remember to include your club alias along with your comments! ****
Will Grayson, Will Grayson
Author: John Green & David Levithan
Stars: 5
Review by: Library Aimee
This is a young adult book cowritten by two of my favorite YA authors. It was funny, sweet, and completely over-the-top fabulous! The lives of two teenagers named Will Grayson collide in an unexpected way.
Stars: 5
Review by: Library Aimee
This is a young adult book cowritten by two of my favorite YA authors. It was funny, sweet, and completely over-the-top fabulous! The lives of two teenagers named Will Grayson collide in an unexpected way.
I'll Mature When I'm Dead
Author: Dave Barry
Stars: 4
Review by: Library Aimee
I laughed out loud at least once in every essay!
Stars: 4
Review by: Library Aimee
I laughed out loud at least once in every essay!
Garden Spells
Author: Sarah Addison Allen
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Barbie
Fun and whimsical, a nice read for Memorial Day on the patio.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Barbie
Fun and whimsical, a nice read for Memorial Day on the patio.
Playing for Pizza
Author: John Grisham
Stars: 3
Review by: Barbie
Not my area of interest, and not as good as other Grisham books I have read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Barbie
Not my area of interest, and not as good as other Grisham books I have read.
Twelve Rooms with a View
Author: Theresa Rebeck
Stars: 4
Review by: readsalot
This is a story about three sisters and their fight over an apartment left in their mother's will. Along come the sons of the second husband of their mother and, well, you can guess the rest! Tina, the main character, finally finds her place in the family and the world. I can totally relate to this, having three sisters of my own.
Stars: 4
Review by: readsalot
This is a story about three sisters and their fight over an apartment left in their mother's will. Along come the sons of the second husband of their mother and, well, you can guess the rest! Tina, the main character, finally finds her place in the family and the world. I can totally relate to this, having three sisters of my own.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Pygmalion
Author: George Bernard Shaw
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
My Fair Lady is based on this play by George Bernard Shaw. Since I'm hoping to be a part of CAST's production of My Fair Lady this summer, I thought it would be a good read with which to start my summer reading... sort of like "Break a leg!"
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
My Fair Lady is based on this play by George Bernard Shaw. Since I'm hoping to be a part of CAST's production of My Fair Lady this summer, I thought it would be a good read with which to start my summer reading... sort of like "Break a leg!"
The Long Way Home
Author: Robin Pilcher
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
Can't recommend this book enough. In the same tradition of his wonderful writer mother, Robin Pilcher's latest book introduces you to characters you really learn to love and care about. Great twists and turns, and does keep you guessing till the end.
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
Can't recommend this book enough. In the same tradition of his wonderful writer mother, Robin Pilcher's latest book introduces you to characters you really learn to love and care about. Great twists and turns, and does keep you guessing till the end.
The Postmistress
Author: Sarah Blake
Stars:4
Review by: ADAR
World War 2 before the US gets into the war. Takes place on Cape Cod and tries to show how people felt about what was happening in Europe---go to war or not. Good read.
Stars:4
Review by: ADAR
World War 2 before the US gets into the war. Takes place on Cape Cod and tries to show how people felt about what was happening in Europe---go to war or not. Good read.
Secrets of Eden
Author: Chris Bohjalian
Stars: 2
Review by: bookwormmoma
Not his best book. He usually has a better "twist" to the end.
Stars: 2
Review by: bookwormmoma
Not his best book. He usually has a better "twist" to the end.
Losing Charlotte
Author: Heather Clay
Stars: 5
Review by: readsalot
A debut worth checking out about a family that goes through a lot. Clay brings the characters to life. I read this book in one day!
Stars: 5
Review by: readsalot
A debut worth checking out about a family that goes through a lot. Clay brings the characters to life. I read this book in one day!
The Seven Year Bitch
Author: Jennifer Belle
Stars: 4
Review by: readsalot
A great beach read! A fun book that you will fall in love with.
Stars: 4
Review by: readsalot
A great beach read! A fun book that you will fall in love with.
Tinkers
Author: Paul Harding
Stars: 5
Review by: patco81
Beautifully-written novel. The author explores the sometimes-tenuous relationships between fathers and sons, husbands and wives, vocations and avocations, nature and science, in the context of the main character's imminent death. This is accomplished in the spare framework of under 200 pages, and it is a literary success.
Stars: 5
Review by: patco81
Beautifully-written novel. The author explores the sometimes-tenuous relationships between fathers and sons, husbands and wives, vocations and avocations, nature and science, in the context of the main character's imminent death. This is accomplished in the spare framework of under 200 pages, and it is a literary success.
Stirring Up Strife
Author: Jennifer Stanley
Stars: 2.5
Review by: L.Z.
I think that this is the first in a series that has some potential that hasn't yet been reached. I'll keep an eye out for future additions to the series.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: L.Z.
I think that this is the first in a series that has some potential that hasn't yet been reached. I'll keep an eye out for future additions to the series.
Plaster and Poison
Author: Jennie Bentley
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
If you liked the others in this series, then you'll enjoy this one, too! Fun.
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
If you liked the others in this series, then you'll enjoy this one, too! Fun.
Joshua
Author: Joseph F. Girzone
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
Charming and touching, incredibly poignant, this book will help your faith soar, as a modern-day Jesus aka "Joshua" moves into a sleepy, little town named Auburn and allows the curiosity of the community to discover Him and His message. Unforgettable characters and a strong reminder of the purity of Jesus's message, your faith will surely get stronger by reading this book.
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
Charming and touching, incredibly poignant, this book will help your faith soar, as a modern-day Jesus aka "Joshua" moves into a sleepy, little town named Auburn and allows the curiosity of the community to discover Him and His message. Unforgettable characters and a strong reminder of the purity of Jesus's message, your faith will surely get stronger by reading this book.
Just Jennifer
The One that I Want by Allison Winn Scotch (Shaye Arehart, June 1, 2010)
What if you thought the life you were happily living was the one that you wanted only to learn that maybe you aren’t as happy as you thought you were and neither is everyone else around you? Tilly Farmer is living what she thinks is her dream life: she married her high school sweetheart, the couple lives in a house Tilly’s father bought for them in their home town where Tilly is the high school guidance counselor who gets to plan prom and the musical each year, reliving her high school years over and over again. A chance meeting of a once close grammar school friend, who bequeaths to Tilly the gift of clarity, and Tilly begins seeing things that haven’t happened yet but that will alter the course of her life and the way she sees things. At first, Tilly is a frustrating character, the cheerleader who always fixes things when it is clear her own life is in need of fixing. Little by little, as Tilly accepts the chance she has been given, she is able to deal better with her alcoholic father, her little sister who has run away from her problems, and her own marriage, and maybe can finally find the life she wants to live, and is meant to live.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Just Jennifer
Quinn is in love with Sage. Of that she is sure. When Sage surprises her with a weekend-get-away and proposal in Paris, she is sure she wants to marry him. Now that she is back in Manhattan, surrounded by her everyday life and the grief she is still dealing with after her father’s death in the World Trade Center collapse, she is not sure of anything. Named Prudence at birth, Quinn has always used her middle name, and now questions whether she was aptly named or if she needs to pay more heed to her given name. Quinn is a new attorney at a large mid-town law firm, has solid, caring friends, a brother with exceptional taste, and a mother who has always been somewhat of an enigma to Quinn, an obstetrician’s wife with a hippy mentality living on the Upper West Side. Leaning on her friends Kayla and Avery, and learning some secrets along the way, Quinn navigates her new life and the new designation she has received: fiancée. I was unsure about recommending this title, it’s a little bit clichéd and light-weight at times, but over a couple of days, Quinn kept fliting in and out of my mind and I think there may be more to the story than originally meets the eye. Not just the story of a newly engaged young woman navigating her way toward marriage, Quinn must find her new place in the world, in her family, her new place with Sage, with Sage’s family, and must confront the demons in her own life and now those in Sage’s.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Congratulations to...
... Kee Read, who won the copy of The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake! Thank you to all those who commented on "Just Jennifer."
Just Jennifer
The Frozen Rabbi by Steve Stern (Algonquin, May 11, 2010)
*Please note, I do not have a review copy of this to share. The library has copies that you can request!
In a novel that explores Jewish tradition and diaspora, a Rabbi from 1889 Poland
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
A Word about the Quote
One of our longtime club members suggested this week's quote to me, and I thought it was appropriate for the beginning of our 2010 club, as we are all deciding on this summer's reading goal for ourselves. As much as we enjoy our summer reading, we are doing more than merely entertaining ourselves. Keep in mind that the more we read, the more we are STILL learning. Thank you, RjS, for the inspiring quote!
Here was the quote that week:
(And if this inspires you to increase your goal, just let me know!)
Terry
Here was the quote that week:
In midlife, it is tempting to succumb to the idea that because you have more years behind you than ahead, what you already know will carry you along.
~Jon Katz, from Running to the Mountain (And if this inspires you to increase your goal, just let me know!)
Terry
How do we choose which books to read?
The results are in! The ways that people choose which books to read for the Adult Summer Reading Club are as follows............
1st - from my "Books to Read" list (9 votes)
Tied for 2nd - browsing the library's shelves; the newest books by my favorite authors (7 votes each)
Tied for 4th – from the library's "Adult Summer Reading Club Favorites" library display; friends' recommendations (6 votes each)
Tied for 6th - browsing my home bookshelves; from the list of books read by club members this summer (5 votes each)
Tied for 8th - from the Club's member reviews; from "Just Jennifer" reviews; browsing the bookstore's shelves (4 votes each)
and in 11th place - I look at the NYT bestseller list (2 votes).
It’s good feedback to know that people are reading “Just Jennifer” and club reviews, consulting our list of books read, and looking at our library display. Thanks to all who voted!
1st - from my "Books to Read" list (9 votes)
Tied for 2nd - browsing the library's shelves; the newest books by my favorite authors (7 votes each)
Tied for 4th – from the library's "Adult Summer Reading Club Favorites" library display; friends' recommendations (6 votes each)
Tied for 6th - browsing my home bookshelves; from the list of books read by club members this summer (5 votes each)
Tied for 8th - from the Club's member reviews; from "Just Jennifer" reviews; browsing the bookstore's shelves (4 votes each)
and in 11th place - I look at the NYT bestseller list (2 votes).
It’s good feedback to know that people are reading “Just Jennifer” and club reviews, consulting our list of books read, and looking at our library display. Thanks to all who voted!
Congratulations to...
...Fernanda L., who won the copy of The Long Song! Thank you to all those who commented on "Just Jennifer."
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Just Jennifer
The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender (Doubleday, June 1, 2010)
Just before her ninth birthday, Rose Edelstein learns she has an unusual gift: Rose can taste the emotions of the cook, purveyor or grower of the food she is eating. Rose tastes an unbearable sadness in her mother’s lemon cake that she realizes is deep inside her mother. From then on, Rose is afraid of what she will learn by eating and tries to avoid eating home cooked food as much as possible, not wanting to know, not able to understand, her mother’s inner secrets. As Rose grows through her teenage years, always on the periphery of everything, she senses a change in her parents’ marriage, which had wonderfully romantic beginnings, and a change in her older brother, Joseph, who is having his own difficulties with the world in which he lives. He develops his own gift, his own way of dealing with reality, one that will bring heartache, and truth, to the lives of those he loves. At first, The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake seems straightforward, but then a magical realism takes over and the reader becomes lost in Rose and Joe’s world, a world filled with secrets, and one that she must choose to learn to live in, or escape forever.
Congratulations to...
...LateNightReader, who won the copy of The Faculty Club! Thank you to all those who commented on "Just Jennifer."