Thursday, September 30, 2010

Just Jennifer

 Room by Emma Donoghue (Little Brown, September, 2010)
 
Irish born author Emma Donoghue has created a world that is as safe for a five-year-old boy as it is terrifying for his mother in Room.  The main character, known only as Ma, was kidnapped by Old Nick when she was nineteen and has been held captive in a reasonably well-appointed shed on his property for the past seven years.  Old Nick routinely visits Ma, raping her, she becoming pregnant as a result.  Jack is born and lives the first five years of his life in captivity.  Ma takes as good care of him as she is able under the circumstances, teaching him and trying to create as normal a routine as possible, but Jack is never properly socialized and at first cannot fathom a life, or world, outside his four walls, nor why anyone would want one.  As Jack gets older, he begins to grow curious about life outside and Ma becomes almost frantic in her desire to escape the only life Jack has ever known.

Ma and Jack's world in Room (Jack doesn't use articles for the objects in his life, but calls them by their name as if it were their proper name) is both horrifying and fascinating at the same time; Ma tries to keep the world she has created for Jack as normal as possible, teaching him good hygiene, how to read and speak, and devising ways for the young boy to exercise.  That she is able to stay as positive as she does for her son’s sake is a tribute to Ma’s strength; the plan she hatches for their escape and rescue is brave, though she knows she will possibly end up sacrificing the one thing that gives her life meaning.  Emma Donoghue creates a believable world and story with carefully written sentences and descriptive language, bringing the reader into the room with Ma and Jack.  She currently lives in Ontario and has written several novels, both contemporary and historical, including Slammerkin. 

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Just Jennifer

Up from the Blue by Susan Henderson (Harper, October 2010)
Tillie Harris and her husband have just moved into a new home in Washington, D.C. where Tillie lived as a child.  Nothing is unpacked, not even their telephone, Simon is away on business and Tillie is in labor.  Not knowing anyone in the city, nor having made any medical arrangements, Tillie goes to a neighbor’s house and calls the only person she knows in the city, the father from whom she has been estranged for years.  As Tillie goes into labor, the story of her childhood begins to unfold.

As a eight-year-old living in an army community in New Mexico, everything in Tillie’s life is covered in a thin film of red dust.  Tillie’s father is regular army and often away on business trips, leaving Tillie and her twelve-year old brother in the care of their mother.  Mara is different than most mothers Tillie knows:  she is exuberant, unorganized and often sick in bed for days.  Tillie doesn’t know her mother is plagued by depression, but is fiercely protective of her when other mothers try to meddle in the Harrises’ lives.  General Harris is reassigned to Washington, D.C. and while he moves his family across country, Tillie stays with his assistant Ann and joins her family two weeks later.  When Tillie arrives in Washington, her mother has vanished and no one will talk about her.  Tillie is desperate to find out what has happened to her mother and is frustrated by her brother’s lack of interest and anger toward their mother and her father’s unwillingness to discuss anything to do with her mother.  Tillie is a scrappy fighter and fights against her natural instincts to be free and do things the way she thinks they should be, often without boundaries, as her mother did.  As adult Tillie’s labor progresses, an uneasy truce is forged with her father, and the story of one year in her life that affected everything after unfolds.  There is a Gothic quality to Tillie’s life with its terribly painful emotions, though there is such a goodness and innocence in Tillie that will endear her to you.

The story of Tillie’s eighth year is neatly woven in between the progression of her labor.  The tone of each part of her childhood story matches the phase she is in during labor until the baby is born and the story of that year is fully revealed.  Tillie is a heart-wrenching character who just wants her mother and wants to understand.  She has been compared to Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird.  Her love for her mother, with all her eccentricities is so pure and uninhibited.  Over twenty years of Tillie’s life are unaccounted for, but at the end it is easy to see she will be able to transcend her childhood tragedies and make tentative steps to create a relationship with her husband, new baby, and perhaps even the father she had grown away from.  This is an elegantly told and haunting first novel.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Just Jennifer

Russian Winter by Daphne Kalotay (HarperCollins, September 2010)

As a young woman, Nina Revskaya was a prima ballerina with the Bolshoi ballet in Russia.  She was know as “The Butterfly” and performed the leads in many ballets, often for Joseph Stalin and his special guests.  Just after she reaches the apex of her career, something occurs that causes Nina to defect to America.  Now, she is a bitter, lonely 80-year-old woman, confined to a wheelchair.  She has just decided to auction her magnificent collection of jewels and a young woman named Drew Brooks is charged with assembling the collection, verifying its provenance and learning as much of the history of the pieces as possible.  When an anonymous donor, local Russian literature professor, Grigori Solodin, comes forth with an amber pendant necklace that matches two of the pieces of Nina’s amber, Drew feels they are part of the same suite and begins seeking out the history of the pieces, their makers, original owners, and pressing a reluctant Nina to remember their origin. 

As Nina reflects on her past life, her story slowly unfolds:  her rise in the Russian ballet, her marriage to Russian poet Viktor Elsin (Solodin is an Elsin scholar and translator), watching as her friends fight for survival in Soviet Russia, and seeing them taken away to a work camp.  As Nina tries to hold her life together and make the best of things, she learns something that leads her to believe the ultimate betrayal has been committed, and without a second thought, she flees Russia and seeks asylum in the United States of America.  Now her past comes crashing into her present as Drew presses Nina to reveal what she has hidden and as Grigori confronts his own past, the heartbreak he feels over losing his wife Christine, and the mystery surrounding his birth and adoption, secrets he thinks he has unraveled, but will be surprised to learn nothing is as it seems.  Drew also confronts her own failed marriage and the choices she has made for her present, but not her future. 

Russian Winter is a complex saga that spans generations and continents with a rich setting.  The history is cursory, enough to provide a good atmosphere, but nothing new is revealed to those with a basic understanding of life in Russia during this time period.   Modern day Boston in the winter provides a good backdrop for the remembered dismal Russian landscape with only a few bright spots.   As all the characters’ lives intertwine and separate, much like a ballet, an intricate plot is revealed; the characters are well-enough imagined, though readers may feel that Nina is too reserved and wonder if she has any remorse or regrets. 

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Just Jennifer

The Gendarme  by Mark T. Mustian  (Amy Einhorn, September 2010)

At the beginning of World War I, Christian Armenians were deported from the Ottoman Empire by Muslim Turkish soldiers, escorted, for the most part on foot, in large waves, by Turkish policemen know as Gendarme.  Many Armenians died during this deportation and it has been a very controversial subject in Turkey and until recently it was considered a crime in Turkey to refer to this episode in their history as genocide.

In present day Georgia (U.S.), a 92-year-old WWI veteran, Emmett Conn, has begun having spells that cause him to have very real dreams; only Emmett realizes he is not dreaming, but reliving the life he has forgotten.  Emmett was born Ahmet Kahn in Turkey and was seriously injured as a young man in Gallipoli.  Thought to be a British solider, he is evacuated to a British hospital in England where he is attended to by an American nurse.  Emmett recovers, marries Carol and moves to the United States of America where he assimilates as well as he can, even anglicizing his name, but bothered by the fact that he cannot remember anything of his life prior to waking in the British hospital.

During Emmett’s seizures and treatment for a brain tumor, he has vivid dreams, as if he is reliving his early life as if seeing a movie.  Each dream picks up where the last left off, revealing a new part of his forgotten life.  Emmett learns he was not just a soldier, but a Gendarme, escorting waves of Armenians to Syria.  Along the way he commits atrocities that are unfathomable to his present self.  He is touched deeply by a young woman, Araxie, whom he tries to keep safe during her journey and upon arriving in Syria, but from whom he is ultimately separated, for both their safety.  As Emmett’s life in Turkey is slowly revealed to him, he learns more about himself than perhaps he cares to know as he faces the harsh realities of his past.  It is in these revelations, though, that he is able to see his daughter Violet and her life decisions with new eyes.

The Gendarme is beautifully written, alternating between 1990’s America and the beginning of World War I in the Ottoman Empire.  As horrifying as Ahmet’s acts as a Gendarme are, his story is a poignant one, not just in his reflection of his role in the deportations, but in how his feelings for Araxie evolve.  Emmett’s current physical deterioration is heart-breaking, as Violet makes choices for him that she feels will keep him, and those around him safe, though he is not ready to end his story yet.  Araxie has one blue eye and one brown eye, mirroring the dichotomy of many things in Emmett’s life:  the humanity and love he shows Araxie amidst other cruel acts he commits, Sash, who helps him hide in Syria, his two daughters, even his two names and two lives, the one he lived before the war and the one lived after.

The Gendarme is a haunting story that surprises, horrifies and gives hope all at once.  It is at once a war story, a multi-layered love story and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and its capacity to forgive others and ourselves. 

Mark Mustian is of Armenian descent but has a great-grandfather who fought for the Confederacy in the US Civil War.  This is his first novel.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Congratulations to...

... Fernanda L., the Crossword Puzzle Winner!!!

... KAD, the Double Puzzle Winner!!!

... Kathy G., the Scavenger Hunt Winner!!!

... mea, the Water Wisdom prize winner!!!

... Tartu, the Grand Prize winner!!!

... CB, the Feedback Form prize winner!!!

and thanks again to the Friends of the Library for generously funding the Adult Summer Reading Club prizes!

Congratulations to...

... Reader, our Week #14 Prize Winner!!!

Just Jennifer


Strangers at the Feast  Jennifer Vanderbes (Scribner, August 3, 2010)

At first glance, I thought the title would refer to the young men who would be the catalysts for the tragedy that was to occur this Thanksgiving evening, but as I began to read the novel, I realized the strangers were actually the members of the Olson family, both to each other and to themselves.  Ginny can't quite explain to anyone, including herself, why she has impulsively adopted a child from India; Douglas has become withdrawn from his wife and children as the real estate market has begun to plummet; his wife Denise is no longer living the life she feels she signed on for.  Ginny and Douglas's father has been withdrawn from his family since his return from Vietnam, his only passion being looking at the stars and planets through his telescope, distancing himself from life; their mother Eleanor has tried to keep her family together all these years and is just worn out, only managing on the surface any longer.  Kijo and Spider, while strangers to the Olsons, display, at times, more sense of themselves and their families, as Kijo seeks revenge for a wrong he feels Douglas committed against Kijo's grandmother. 

As each character's story unfolds, the tragedy begins to take shape and is foreshadowed, but what ultimately occurs is startling and though most characters’ reactions to it is predictable, as most react the way they have reacted to the events in their lives thus far, there is one notable exception.  The story of the unraveling not only of a family, but of each of the characters who thinks they have reached an apex in their lives serves as a reminder of our responsibilities as members of our own families, however torn and dysfunctional they may be. Each characters is searching for something, though they may not know what it is and may not recognize it when they find it. 

Overwritten and dramatic in places, Strangers at the Feast is one of those books that as you are reading it you are not sure you really like the characters, but that will resonate with you after you read the last pages, wondering how each character could have acted and reacted differently over the course of their lives, up to and including those last moments on Thanksgiving, that could have altered the outcome of the evening and everyone’s futures.  Ultimately, though, fate is fickle, and if Ginny's oven had not failed, this family’s story would have had a much different ending, though not necessarily a happy one.

Saving Cee-Cee Honeycutt

Author: Beth Hoffman
Stars: 2.5
Review by: mystery lover

 Cee-Cee Honeycutt is sent to a relative's house to live after her mother, with issues, passes and her father has other priorities.  Though, I did like the book, it is true to the reviews--there could have been more depth in parts, instead of just touching on a subject.

Through a Dog's Eyes

Author: Jennifer Arnold
Stars: 3.5
Review by:  Miss Lucy

The author runs Canine Assistants, and has spent years training and overseeing the training of assistance dogs.  Her compassionate way of seeing dogs' personalities and souls is uplifting and fascinating.

White Teeth

Author: Zadie Smith
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy


A good story by a talented author, this book also gives insight into how Muslim Pakistanis feel about emigrating to the West.

Strider

Author: Beverly Cleary
Stars: 4
Review by: KM

Boy gets a dog while growing up. She is a very good writer so even though juvenile, very enjoyable.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Chasing Badger

Author: Tony Hillerman
Stars: 4
Review by: KM

Listened to it on audio. The narrator is the usual one for Hillerman's books and is very good, brings actor talent to the voices. If you like the Southwest and mysteries, you will enjoy this read.

Cheaper by the Dozen

Author: Frank B. Gilbreth
Stars: 3
Review by: KM


A classic. The reader can glean some cultural history while enjoying a good read.

Getting Organized in the Google Era

Author: Douglas C. Merrill
Stars: 4
Review by: KM

 Depending on your needs and interests and your level of already acquired tech savviness, it may have some good information or a LOT. I am very glad I read this book.

The Castaways

Author: Elin Hilderbrand
Stars: 5
Review by:  reademquik

Thoroughly enjoyable!!

Wicked Witch Murder

Author: Leslie Meier
Stars: 3
Review by: patco81

17th of a series featuring smalltown Maine reporter Lucy Stone.  This time she becomes involved with practitioners of Wicca, matches wits with a greedy development company and tries to help the family of a stubborn patriarch who lives by 18th century rules.

Amethyst Dreams

Author: Philys Whitney
Stars: 3
Review by: JamBob

Philys Whitney was around before Danielle Steel and wrote many books of suspense and romance...she delves a lot into the characters.  Her books are short with always a surprise ending.

"U" is for Undertow

Author: Sue Grafton
Stars: 3
Review by:  patco81

U's story was not as compelling as other titles in this series, but still offered a good hook wherein we are given more glimpses into the personal life of the main character, Kinsey Millhone.  
And now, with the conclusion of U, I have achieved my summer goal of reading all the alphabet mysteries (hooray!) published to date. 

"T" is for Trespass

Author: Sue Grafton
Stars: 3.5
Review by: patco81

 Even though these novels are set in the 1980's, they often reflect current issues:  T, for example, focuses on elder abuse and identity theft.

McKetterick's Heart

Author: Linda Lael Miller
Stars: 1
Review by: smudge

There are a lot better things to do in life than read this.

Slammerkin

Author: Emma Donoghue
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge

Historical fiction loosely based on the life of Mary Saunders, this story is haunting.

Shoot the Moon

Author: Billie Letts
Stars: 4
Review by: nanibev

Fun read.

Getting Stoned with Savages

Author: J. Maarten Troost
Stars: 4.5
Review by:  Miss Lucy

Last summer I read The Sex Lives of Cannibals, which I reported to be about neither sex nor cannibals (although, a good book nonetheless).  The sequel, Getting Stoned with Savages, IS about getting stoned, and, ironically, is very much about cannibals.  Go figure with the titles...  I guess they just sound catchier this way.  

I listened to both books and would heartily recommend it if you can get them on audio.  The whole time I listened to them, I forgot that it was not the author who was reading, as the narrator had the right nuances to really bring out the humorous writing.  Turns out they're read by Simon Vance, an extremely talented narrator whose accent I've fallen in love with, and who can properly read every character's voice without being the least bit annoying, in their proper accents no less! 

The book is the true account of the author's time living in the Pacific Islands of Vanuatu and Fiji.  It's very funny, reads like fiction, and despite all the not-so-nice things you learn about the islands, still makes you long to be there!

Still Missing

Author: Chevy Stevens
Stars: 4.5
Review by:  reademquik

Wow! Her first novel -- can't wait to see what she does for an encore!  Excellent story, but can be unsettling at times.

"S" is for Silence

Author: Sue Grafton
Stars: 4
Review by: patco81


S was terrific; maybe the best.  Great character development and plot.  Kept me guessing until the end.

"R" is for Ricochet

Author: Sue Grafton
Stars: 2
Review by: patco81


R was not one of the better ones in this alphabet series: unpleasant characters and boring storyline.  Only read a third and gave up.

How to be an American Housewife

Author: Margaret Dilloway
Stars: 5
Review by: Kee Read

Excellent novel!

I'd Know You Anywhere

Author: Laura Lippman
Stars: 4
Review by: patco81

Another strong, suspenseful novel from a mystery author whose writing skills, especially regarding character development, dialogue and plot, are superior to many in that genre.  And while Laura Lippman rarely disappoints, I found the ending somewhat flat and not consistent with the overall pacing of the book: great build-up, diminished expectations.  Yet perhaps that's the only way to bring resolution to the study of deeply flawed human beings.

Fly Away Home

Author: Jennifer Weiner
Stars: 4
Review by:  patco81
  
With a storyline ripped from the front page of every newspaper, Jennifer Weiner has created what I think is her best novel to date. Politics, sex, fashion, culinary arts, marriage & motherhood - it's all there, plus very current name-dropping (Silda Spitzer! Sarah Palin!).  Once you start the book, it's almost impossible to put down.  Great escapism with a dollop of regret, redemption and life lessons learned.

Dog Tags

Author: David Rosenfelt
Stars: 3
Review by:  patco81

Timely tale of Iraq War vet who, with his dog, becomes involved in questionable (read: criminal) activities.  Rosenfelt's writing style includes terse prose, spare dialogue and sentimental canine tributes.  The storyline at times is confusing - many characters, most of whom are "eliminated" quickly - but overall, entertaining.

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Author: Garth Stein
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS


The story is narrated by Enzo, Denny Swift's dog. Through flash-back, we know of all the milestones in Denny's life, including his marriage to Eve, the birth of Zoe and sadly, Eve's death. It is only after Eve dies, that the story takes off and I found it very challenging to put the book down. I am not a race car fan and I have to admit that I don't understand car racing, so even though there was a lot of car racing fact, the story was so strong, you didn't mind it at all, because you realize that the racing saved Denny's life, as did Enzo.

Friends, Lovers, Chocolate

Author: Alexander McCall Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: Nancy W

 This book is one in the Sunday Philosophy Club series. Like other books by this author, it is an easy read. I really got a feel for the setting, Edinburg, Scotland. The plot has mystery, relationships and philosophy.
  I think it is funny when the main character, Isabel, starts thinking on a philosophical tangent, in the middle of a conversation about something else. I tend to do the same thing!

The Secret of Shadow Ranch

Author: Carolyn Keene
Stars: 4
Review by:  BookWorm2

Cool YA mystery with a cowboy flair

Burn

Author: Nevada Barr
Stars: 4.5
Review by: reademquik

I really like the way she writes!  I've read 5 of her novels already and they get better & better! Her descriptions of the locales she writes about are great and thoroughly researched.  This one takes place in New Orleans with all its mystery, grunginess, and superstition.

Amazing Grays, Amazing Grace

Author: Lynn Baber
Stars: 2
Review by:  RjS

 I think the best part of the book was the 153 fish principle, regarding the story in the gospel about the disciples fishing all night and never catching anything. It was only after Jesus told them to throw the nets off the right side of the boat, that the disciples were able to catch fish. 153 of them. So, the author connected obedience to God and the overabundance a person experiences, when obedient to God.

Sleeping Lady

Author: Sue Henry
Stars: 5
Review by:  mystery

 The ending was a complete surprise.

That Old Cape Magic

Author: Richard Russo
Stars: 2
Review by:  Barbie

This wasn't the perfect summer beach read that I was hoping it would be after reading previous ratings.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Shadow Tag

Author: Louise Erdrich
Stars: 4
Review by:  Kayaker

Erdrich wrote a captivating story about the inside of a marriage which showed how locked a couple can be by adding more and more layers of need.  Children, dependency for financial support as well as artistic content forces husband and wife to constantly dance almost maniacally around each other. A book which requires compassion otherwise it doesn't seem real.

Systems of Survival

Author: Jane Jacobs
Stars: 3.5
Review by:  Kayaker

 A dialogue on the moral foundation of a commercial and a guardian system of the world.  It assumes a capitalist function and discusses the pitfalls and history of how these systems came to be.  Jacobs explains well the issues when the systems collide and uses credible examples.

The Coroner's Lunch

Author: Colin Cotterill
Stars: 4
Review by:  Kayaker

This is an amusing read about a doctor who is forced to be a coroner in a politically changing Thai world.  He uncovers plots and carefully brings the reader in and out of his way of thinking with such a wry sense of humor.

Thereby Hangs the Tail

Author: Spencer Quinn
Stars: 4
Review by:  bobjam

Thoroughly enjoyed the humor of this book along with a dash of mystery....second in the series....can't wait till the third comes out!

Murder Most Maine

Author: Karen MacInerney
Stars:  3.5
Review by:  JamBob

A fun cozy read with great recipes included in the back...an inn keeper on an island off Maine gets more than reservations for a weight loss group....how about a few bodies too...gives new meaning to the word die-it!

Private

Author: James Patterson
Stars: 3
Review by:  Big Da

Although formulaic, still interesting.

Surrender Dorothy

Author: Meg Wolitzer
Stars: 5
Review by:  Judyangel

This is my fifth book by this author and once again I really enjoyed it.

Cook the Books

Author: Jessica Conant-Park & Susan Conant
Stars: 3
Review by:  L.Z.

A fun read, but definitely lacking in any sort of plot, suspense, or character development.  Still, it was quick and enjoyable, when you're looking for that kind of read!

The Passage

Author: Justin Cronin
Stars: 5
Review by:  scrappy3

 Best book I've read this summer!  First book in a trilogy-similar to The Stand by Stephen King-couldn't put it down!

The Man from Beijing

Author Henning Mankell
Stars: 5
Review by:  Big Da

Well written - AND translated.  Couldn't put it down.

Her Fearful Symmetry

Author: Audrey Niffenegger
Stars: 3.5
Review by:  KAD

Very different book from her previous book Time Traveler's Wife.  Bizarre ghost story.

Whistlin' Dixie in a Nor'easter

Author: Lisa Patton
Stars: 3
Review by:  smudge

Light novel about a Southerner who moves north to take over a Vermont inn.

The Spellmans Strike Again

Author: Lisa Lutz
Stars: 4
Review by:  smudge

 The Spellman books make me laugh.  What could be better?

The Devil in the White City

Author: Erik Larson
Stars: 5
Review by:  mysterygirl

A must read!!  Fabulous non-fiction story about the 1895 Chicago World's Fair with a creepy twist.  You simply have GOT to read this book!

Hemingway & Bailey's Bartending Guide to Great American Writers

Author: Mark Bailey & Edward Hemingway
Stars: 5
Review by:  Pam
  
About 30  writers, mostly mid-century, featured with anecdotes, caricatures, and a drink recipe pertinent to them.

The Dogs of Babel

Author: Carolyn Parkhurst
Stars: 3
Review by:  nanibev

 For those who enjoy something totally strange and different, this is the book for them!  In an effort to determine exactly what happened at the time of his wife's death, Paul Iverson attempts to teach their dog, the only witness, how to talk.

Wicked Cravings

Author: G.A. McKevett
Stars: 3
Review by:  mystery lover

Some things I did not expect.

Joshua

Author: Joseph Girzone
Stars: 2.5
Review by:  Miss Lucy

Although this book had some good insights into what it means to be spiritual, I thought there wasn't enough depth to the plot.

Bright Lights, Big Ass: A Self-Indulgent, Surly, Ex-Sorority Girl's Guide to Why it Often Sucks in the City, or Who Are These Idiots and Why Do They All Live Next Door to Me?

Author: Jen Lancaster
Stars: 5
Review by:  Jackie K.

This book was hilarious!

My Hollywood

Author: Mona Simpson
Stars: 4.5
Review by:  patco81

"The Help" a generation later and with continued exploitation of domestic workers -  in this case, Southeast Asians.  Told in alternating chapters by Claire, a privileged Los Angeles woman overwhelmed and conflicted by new motherhood v. burgeoning career, and Lola, a Filipina whose own family (along with her own identity and dreams) is left behind as she cares for the children of others.  The voices are genuine; situations realistic; decisions often heartbreaking.  Sometimes the sought-after fruits of the American dream are bittersweet.

For Better, For Murder

Author: Lisa Bork
Stars: 4
Review by:  L.Z.

If you're looking for a fun, easy mystery series, this one looks like it will be a keeper!!

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Author: Mark Haddon
Stars: 4
Review by:  Judyangel

This is the second time I read it.  I was confused the first time but now I understood.  It's pretty good.

Making Toast

Author: Roger Rosenblatt
Stars: 5
Review by:  TooManyBooksTooLittleTime

With the wit, heart, precision, and depth of understanding that has characterized his work, Roger Rosenblatt peels back the layers on this most personal of losses to create both a tribute to his late daughter and a testament to familial love. The day Amy died, Harris told Ginny and Roger, "It's impossible." Roger's story tells how a family makes the possible of the impossible.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Swine Not?

Author: Jimmy Buffet
Stars: 2
Review by: Reader

A novel based on a true story, but the fiction story-telling doesn't seem to be for adults.

Just Jennifer

Everything is Going to Be Great  by Rachel Shukert (Harper Perennial, August 2010)

This unabashed, uncensored book is more memoir than travelogue. When playwright-author-actor Rachel Shukert travels to Europe with an experimental theatre group, a customs official in Vienna doesn’t stamp her passport, basically giving her free reign in Europe. After the show is finished in Vienna and Germany, Shukert visits (stays with indefinitely) her friends in Amsterdam who promise they can get her a part in a new play they are hoping to produce. Needless to say, the play falls through. While thinking about what to do next, Shukert explores Amsterdam’s markets, their red light district, buys a stolen bike for a great price, almost turns trying to make a dentist appointment into another one night stand and falls in love. While some readers may be off put by Rachel’s boldness in describing her adventures (she has no compunction about discussing her not one, but two, emergency room visits after drinking too much alcohol, and even includes some helpful tags to carry along, translated in several languages, to help the doctor/patient interaction in a foreign country), there is an honesty to her writing that is very refreshing. Shukert’s memoir is filled with much self-reflection as she recounts being brought up Jewish in Nebraska, her many failed relationships, her one night stands and her quest to be an actress, and as she considers what she would like the next phase of her life to be, she, and the reader, can be quite certain that everything IS going to be great---or at least ok.

Congratulations to...

... JamBob, our Week #13 Prize Winner!!!

Sullivan's Evidence

Author: Nancy Taylor Rosenberg
Stars: 5
Review by: Reader

The author uses her experience in law enforcement to write a thriller with a probation officer as the main character. A well written novel filled with suspense that carries you from the first pages to its conclusion.

Beowulf

Stars: 4
Review by: njvera

Was on my daughter's reading list. :)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Author: J.K. Rowling
Stars: 4
Review by: njvera

Wanted to read it again in advance of the kids wanting to see the upcoming movie. :)

Thursday, September 9, 2010

The Red Tent

Author: Anita Diamant
Stars: 2
Review by: Paula N

I keep trying to like this book but it just doesn't work for me.

The Horse Boy

Author: Rupert Isaacson
Stars: 5

Review by: bookaweek

Loved it. Couldn't put it down. So good to read a story where a parent did everything possible to help heal their child. Not just for parents of disabled children.

True Unity: Willing Communication Between Horse & Rider

Author: Tom Dorrance
Stars: 3

Review by: RjS

I was disappointed by this book. The best part to read are the first three chapters. The rest of the book are testimonials written by Tom's students. But the concept of unity and harmony was a struggle for the author to really define. He got close and I think the best parts of the book made the reader aware of a horse's need for self preservation and once you understood this, you could put it to real good use. The idea of a controlling the horse's feet and feeling the horse's feet was also a lightning bolt for me and the idea that you sit on the horse's hind end, or you can feel the horse's hind end, as opposed to riding and feeling the front was also a powerful idea. So, there were bits and pieces that I liked and I guess I wish the book was more than some treasured bits and pieces.

Murder Past Due

Author: Miranda James
Stars: 3

Review by: patco81

 First of a series.  Librarian Charlie Harris and his cat Diesel provide answers to a murder mystery in Athena, Mississippi.

The Girl Who Chased the Moon

Author: Sarah Addison Allen
Stars: 5

Review by: P Kerr

 PERFECT summer read...loved it...couldn't put it down.

Still Summer

Author: Jacquelyn Mitchard
Stars: 4

Review by: Liza

Very engaging read and a fascinating study on how people behave in a crisis.  Mitchard is good with crises! 

I Love You, Who Are You?: Loving & Caring for a Parent with Alzheimer's

Author: Patti Kerr
Stars: 5

Review by:  P Kerr


I finished what I hope is the LAST draft of my book.  It's with my editor. Fingers crossed it will be out in November of this year.

Memoirs of a Geisha

Author: Arthur Golden
Stars: 5

Review by: Liza

 What a vivid picture he paints of this culture.  Completely engrossing and wonderful.  Can't wait to see the movie.

Hidden Pictures

Author: Meg Wolitzer
Stars: 5

Review by: Judyangel

Another excellent book by this author.  The stories are very realistic.

Postcard Killers

Author: James Patterson
Stars: 4

Review by: Tartu

Much better than the usual Patterson.  The last quarter lagged and was not nearly as good as the first part of the book.

Dogfight

Author: Matt Burgess
Stars: 3

Review by: Tartu

An interesting story set in Queens shortly after 9/11.  Gritty, but very overwritten in places.  When describing scenes, every possible detail is included.

A Gentleman by Any Other Name

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3

Review by: mea

 Easy romantic book to read in the true Michaels style.

Dial M for Mischief, Mischief Becomes her, Mischief 24/7

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3

Review by: mea



This series (Sunshine Girls Romantic Capers) is fun to read and links her books about the past to modern times.

A Reckless Beauty

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3

Review by: mea

Just a fun, easy read.

The Shack

Author: William Young
Stars: 5

Review by: ddlesmom

Amazing Book.

The Good Man Jesus and the Scoundrel Christ

Author: Philip Pullman
Stars: 3

Review by: Mich D

This is the author who wrote The Golden Compass.  The Church was upset with that book because of some of the ideas and was very vocal about it.  I guess this is one of those "be careful who you piss off" because in this one he changes the stories of Jesus Christ into stories about two brothers -- one named Jesus, one named Christ.  Interesting read if you know the biblical stories.  Really quick read too.  Don't read it if it's going to get you upset because it questions the Christian stories.

Man O' War

Author: Walter Farley
Stars: 5

Review by: RjS

 Most people will know Walter Farley from his most famous book, The Black Stallion. Man O' War was a very real horse, however, this is a story told by a fictional character, Danny Ryan, Man O' War's groom. Danny was with Man O' War's dam, Mahubah when she foaled the colt and remained with him, through his last race against Sir Barton. While most horse lovers know a lot of the facts concerning Man O' War, this version of his story was exciting and suspenseful. I loved it.

Saddled

Author: Susan Richards
Stars: 4

Review by: RjS

 I read Susan Richard's first book, Chosen by a Horse, and enjoyed it. I liked this book and the main reason that I liked it, is because the story is really about the transforming power that horses have on a person's life. Susan was an alcoholic, who made a lot of excuses for her addiction. It was only when she purchased Georgia, a beautiful Morgan horse mare, that she became serious on tackling and overcoming her addiction, becoming victorious in her life. The book takes a lot of twists and turns, however, the horse is the center and the star of the story. The sour parts of the book for me, are the parts that really get into the concept of AA and psychology. It was only in these parts that the book became something that I really did not want to read. I just wanted to read about horses.

Eyes With Fire

Author: Mikey Porter
Stars: 5

Review by: RjS

While the book has many Mustang characters, the primary focus of the story is Zima, a wild black Mustang filly and her trainer-owner who domesticates her. I really enjoyed the natural progression of the relationship that takes place between Mikey and Zima. And then, Zima metamorphoses into a wonderful ambassador for the breed, if loved, respected and cherished. I really enjoyed the book and how Mikey understood the horse's inborn need for self-preservation and respected this and made it blossom into an outstanding relationship. If you love horses, you really need to read this book!

The Twentieth Wife

Author: Indu Sundaresan
Stars: 4

Review by: smudge

Historical fiction that recounts the story of Mehrunnisa,one of India's most controversial empresses. Knowing little about India's history and customs, I found the detail about this time period (17th century) and culture very interesting.

The Silent Hour

Author: Michael Koryta
Stars: 3

Review by: Big Da


No way you can guess at the solution.

Asterios Polyp

Author: David Mazzucchelli
Stars: 5

Review by: Elaine

 A quick and excellent read!

Sizzling Sixteen

Author: Janet Evanovich    
Stars: 4

Review by: CB

 Entertaining and laugh out loud funny as usual! :)

The Ghosts of Hopewell

Author: Jim Fisher
Stars: 5

Review by: JamBob

This is the second time I am reading this book to prepare to see the Lindbergh Trial this Fall which is supposedly the last year they are performing this. Jim Fisher does an excellent job of giving the reader the chronology, facts and evidence in the case. Then he explains all the conspiracy theories, other books and docudramas that were released with a host of alternate explanations. He does all this in clear writing and in a short book (less than 200 pages). The Lindbergh baby kidnapping still haunts us today and there are many who believe the wrong man was executed. So many people were involved in this case, some to solve it, some to be close to Lindbergh the American hero, some to launch a political career, some to extort money...the list is endless. There was such a frenzy to solve the case that although this author feels justice was served by convicting Hauptman there is plenty of room to question whether the evidence was complete or contrived.

Fragile

Author:  Lisa Unger
Stars: 4

Review by: reademquik

3 generations of "stuff" going on -- all leads to an interesting climax.  Good book!

Nineteen Minutes

Author: Jodi Picoult
Stars: 5

Review by: deck reader

Opened my eyes to the problems of bullying.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

32 Candles

Author: Ernessa T. Carter
Stars: 5
Review by:  Library Aimee

 If you loved the movie 16 Candles and like a little crazy in your stories--this book is for you!  I loved it! 

"P" is for Peril ***and*** "Q" is for Quarry

Author: Sue Grafton
Stars: 3
Review by:  patco81

More alphabet mystery fun.

The Dark Highlander

Author: Karen Marie Moning
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea

A later book in a series.  Time travel, sexy Highlanders and minor intrigue.  A story in her style so you kind of know the ending but still sexy and fun to read.
 

High Heels and Holidays

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea

 Another fun and campy book.  I read the entire series but not in order.   It was still fun even if I kind of knew what might have happened.  The series is great just to read and enjoy.

Maggie Without a Clue

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea

Another fun book in the series.  The series is even more fun when you read about the author on her website and find out she is trying to give joy to others whenever she can.

The Immortal Highlander

Author: Karen Marie Moning
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea

 A later book in the series (After Dark Highlander).  Another sexy Highlander-Fae book.  Fun summer read.

Shadow of Your Smile

Author: Mary Higgins Clark
Stars: 3
Review by:  L.Z.

 Exactly what one would expect from Mary H. Clark!

The Photographer

Author: Emmanuel Guibert
Stars: 5
Review by:  Elaine

 An account of war in Afghanistan, from a photojournalist who followed doctors and nurses during their work in this country. Written in graphic novel format ,intermixing with photographs. This was a terrific book and held my attention all throughout.Recently, this book was mentioned in one of the questions on the TV show JEOPARDY during collegiate week!

Three Cups of Tea

Author: Greg Mortenson
Stars: 3
Review by:  Carmella V

 Mortenson's true story explains how he worked to build many new schools for the impoverished young women of Pakistan and how he advocated education not military force to change the minds and hearts of the Muslim people.

Fat Cat

Author: Robin Brande
Stars: 3
Review by:  Miss Lucy

Cat devises a science project that ends up being a self-improvement project, improving not only her looks, but her self-image and her interpersonal relationships as well.  This book can be found in the Young Adult section of the library.

Red Hook Road

Author: Ayelet Waldman
Stars: 4
Review by:  ADAR

 Good story.  Family relationships.  Keeps your interest.

Scarlet Nights

Author: Jude Deveraux
Stars: 5
Review by:  Kee Read

Book 3 in a series. I read it as a stand alone. I loved it and will now read book 1. 

Death Loves a Messy Desk

Author: Mary Jane Maffini
Stars: 2
Review by:  JamBob


 This cozy was too slow...not enough intrigue or action....an organizer gets entangled into an investigation at a company which hired her to clean up a messy desk. The desk's owner goes AWOL and the plot swirls around finding her and what she has been up to.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

The Bright Forever

Author: Lee Martin
Stars: 3
Review by:  bookwormmoma

An easy read, but a little too predictable.

Skeleton Man

Author: Tony Hillerman
Stars: 4
Review by:  G.G. Bell


Good Mystery
.

The Wolf at the Door

Author: Jack Higgins
Stars: 2
Review by:  Big Da

Another international intrigue thriller - involving the IRA, USA, Britain, Russia etc.

Congratulations to...

... TooManyBooksTooLittleTime, our Week #12 Prize Winner!!!

The Wife

Author: Meg Wolitzer
Stars:  5
Review by:  Judyangel

 This is the second book by this author and I thought it was excellent. For fiction it really rings true.
 

Summer of Light

Author: W. Dale Cramer
Stars: 3
Review by:  KM

Syrup and drama. Written by a man, but his writing had a strong sense of female authorship. He is referred to as a faith fiction novelist in one review. It was a good read and inspiring too.

As Husbands Go: a novel

Author: Susan Isaacs
Stars:  3
Review by:  Kathy G.

Book was hard for me to get into and I almost quit.  It did get better and go faster later into the story.  Seemed to end rather abruptly, but questions were answered.
 

Never Give Up!

Author: Joyce Meyer
Stars: 2
Review by:  RjS

At times, I really enjoyed this book, which is like listening to a very strong pep talk, by a coach, in a locker room. It is a positive book, with many useful tips that are undescored by scripture. However, the whole "eagle Christian" thing really lost me. Especially the story of the eagle renewal, which I researched on snopes.com and found that it was not true. It was really hard to keep reading at that point but like the author says a lot in her book, I pressed on, to find some saving grace to the investment in my time I had made up to that point.

Three Cups of Tea

Author: Greg Mortenson
Stars: 3
Review by:  Barbie

I liked it less the second time around, but was more familiar with the area, so that made it more interesting.

Long Lost

Author: Harlan Coben
Stars: 3
Review by:  ADAR

 A mystery of course.  Fast and suspenseful.

Supreme Justice

Author: Philip Margolin
Stars: 4
Review by:  reademquik

 Good plot.

The Good Earth

Author: Pearl S. Buck
Stars: 5
Review by:  ADAR

I listened to the book on tape and loved it as much as I remember loving it when I read it years ago. Try it even if you haven't read it in forever.

Mummy Dearest

Author: Joan Hess
Stars: 2
Review by:  JamBob

Disappointing coming from a popular author who was inspired by Elizabeth Peters. You do not know why the heroine has attained a super sleuth reputation and the things she does are reckless and dumb....she is on her honeymoon with her teenage daughter and her best friend. Both are ungrateful spoiled brats....no honeymoon in my  book!

Bridget Jones's Diary

Author: Helen Fielding
Stars: 4
Review by:  CB

This is such a funny book.  You sure can learn a lot of British slang from this book.

Old Men at Midnight

Author: Chaim Potok
Stars: 5
Review by:  nanibev

Haven't found an author as good as Potok.

High Heels and Homicide

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea


Another fun and campy read in this series.

The Black Stallion's Ghost

Author: Walter Farley
Stars: 5
Review by:  RjS

This is a much different book than the other books in the Black Stallion series and I am not so sure that the book is targeted for children, as the book is centered around a very complex subject: mental insanity. It is a powerfully dark story, most of the action happens in the Everglades, during the night. One can even say that it is a story of renewal and the passage of Alec, from boy into man. 

The story starts with Captain Pluminel, who is at the center of this story of transition. A former rider at the Cadre Noir, France's premier school of Equestrian Art, he is haunted by ghosts, superstitions, talisman's and evil spiits. Alec meets him, on Pluminel's descent into complete insanity and ultimately, his death. The impact he has on Alec and all that he holds dear, is the real story and Alec emerges a hero, strong and courageous, even in the face of terror. I enjoyed this book and will think of it for a long time.

Death's Excellent Vacation (anthology)

Author: Charlaine Harris, et. al.
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea

 Like most anthology collections,  some short stories are just too short and sometimes "new" authors assume you know their characters already so it's easy to get lost.  The vacation theme was funny for a summer read.  Overall not too bad.

A Whisper to the Living

Author: Stuart M. Kaminsky
Stars: 4
Review by:  Big Da

The book jacket says "Rostnikov is one of the best contemporary examples of an honest policeman navigating the shoals of a corrupt society." And the story takes place in Russia.

Rich Boy

Author: Sharon Pomerantz
Stars: 3
Review by:  patco81

 Can we ever really escape our roots? It takes Robert Vishniak, native Philadelphian and first-in-family to attend/graduate college and acquire a profession, not a trade, four decades and over 500 pages to find the answer. Robert's rise in the world and the consequences he faces for his choices are chronicled through the cultural and historical events of the late 1950's to late 1980's.

Her Fearful Symmetry

Author: Audrey Niffenegger
Stars: 2
Review by: smudge

 It must be difficult when an author's one book so enchants readers to follow up with an equally enchanting story.  I was expecting perhaps too much.  Parts of Her Fearful Symmetry were excellent:  the story of Martin and Marijke, the relationship between twins, and the background information on Highgate Cemetery.  However, the ending left so much unresolved and unclear that I was disappointed overall.

Abarat

Author: Clive Barker
Stars: 4
Review by:  Mich D

Young adult book, fantasy by Clive Barker who also writes BIZARRE horror books.  Liked it a lot.  One of the reviews compared it to Narnia.

Diva Las Vegas

Author: Eileen Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by:  scrappy3
  
Cute, easy read.

Congratulations to...

... Holly B., our Week #11 Prize Winner!!!

Murder at the Spa

Author: Stefanie Matteson
Stars: 5
Review by: CBS

First time I have read this author and I am going back for more!

Private

Author: James Patterson
Stars: 5
Review by:  reademquik

You can never go wrong with a James Patterson book.  This one is no exception.  Short chapters, lots of plots, fun summer read.

Her Fearful Symmetry

Author:Audrey Niffenegger
Stars: 2
Review by: Lynne T.


I expected a lot from this book, since I liked The Time Traveler's Wife so much. It was sort of fascinating in parts, but I also was creeped out by how dark and scary parts were. An odd book.

Shanghai Girls

Author: Lisa See
Stars: 4
Review by: Lynne T.

I love Lisa See and the intricacy of her family relationship portrayals. This book was set in a fascinating time in history and I learned things I hadn't known, like how they held new Chinese immigrants in retention centers in CA. The sisters' relationship is at the center of the book, and it's complicated, fascinating, loyal, brutal, and compelling.

The Time Traveler's Wife

Author: Audrey Niffenegger
Stars: 4
Review by:  Lynne T.

I had cheated and seen the movie already, and yet I still loved the book! Their love story is strong and wonderful, and trying to follow their movements through time is fascinating. I loved it.

Gone for Good

Author: Harlan Coben
Stars: 4
Review by:  DebH09

 Coben is always a good read.  Very entertaining.

The Scent of Rain and Lightning

Author: Nancy Pickard
Stars: 3
Review by:  bookwormmoma

A good story with a nice twist.

Eternal on the Water

Author: Joseph Monninger
Stars: 3
Review by:  patco81

Love Story, Sierra Club style.  Pros: Fascinating factoids about corvids plus some great folk tales; breathtaking descriptions of Nature's beauty; intriguing quality-of-life issues. Cons: Lots of kissing, talking about kissing - yes, we're glad the characters found the loves of their lives, but for the thirty-somethings they are supposed to be, it's overdone and too cutesy-adolescent: distracting, yet not detracting from the novel's overall power.

Romancing Miss Bronte

Author: Juliet Gael
Stars: 3
Review by:  smudge

A mix of fact and fiction, Romancing Miss Bronte tells the story of the years just prior to the Bronte sisters writing to Charlotte Bronte's death, with a particular focus on Charlotte Bronte.

The Widow's Season

Author:  Laura Brodie
Stars: 5
Review by:  smudge

The story was so engrossing, I read all day until I finished it.  An excellent story, well told. 

Fly Away Home

Author: Jennifer Weiner
Stars: 5
Review by:  deck reader

 Wonderful book.  Something that could happen to anyone. 

Drink This, Not That

Author: David Zinczenko
Stars: 5
Review by:  Pam

 WOW, who knew! Reading about how many calories/sugar in different beverages was a mind- opener.  No more Coolatas or Ritaccinos for me.

Femme Fatale

Author: Wendy Holden
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam


Another British chick-lit books. City girl moves to a tiny village,etc.

This Must Be the Place

Author: Kate Racculia
Stars: 4.5
Review by:  patco81

After his wife Amy dies suddenly, a cryptic postcard found amid her belongings sends Arthur on a cross-country journey to Amy's hometown in upstate New York. With Amy's best friend Desdemona (Mona) Jones, her equally impressively-named daughter Oneida, and other quirky town residents guiding him, Arthur unravels the truth of Amy's past and gains the freedom to face the future.  Great debut novel.

Goodnight Nobody

Author: Jennifer Weiner
Stars: 4
Review by:  reademquik

I like the way she writes.  This one has a nice twist at the end that I didn't see coming.  Good story line.

Simple Gifts: Memoirs of a Shaker Village

Author: June Sprigg
Stars: 3
Review by:  Pam

A college student who spends the summer of 1972 as a live in guide at the Canterbury Shaker Village.

Molly Fox's Birthday

Author: Deirdre Madden
Stars: 4
Review by:  BKF

Three main characters in a story that unfolds over the course of one day. Really enjoyed this book. Points-of-view throughout engage the reader. Do I agree or disagree? To quote The London Times, "...a novel about identity...poses meaningful questions about the presentation of self and, perhaps, the necessity of falsehood, as well as interesting views on art, drama, and politics..."

The Sign of the Book

Author: John Dunning
Stars: 2
Review by:  Pam

The beginning was a little slow but other parts and the ending went fast.  Could have used more info. on books and the business. It is part of his mystery series based on rare books.

The Northwest Passage

Author: Brendan Lehane
Stars: 4
Review by:  Pam

In depth and great maps and illustrations. Part of THE SEAFARERS Time-Life Series.

The Explorers

Author: Richard Hamble
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam


In depth and great maps and illustrations. Part of THE SEAFARERS Time-Life Series.

The Great Liners

Author: Melvin Maddocks
Stars: 4
Review by:  Pam

In depth and great maps and illustrations. Part of THE SEAFARERS Time-Life Series.

Summer Crossings

Author: Truman Capote
Stars: 2
Review by:  Pam

 This is a CD book. Available at the North Branch.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Men of War

Author: David Howarth
Stars: 4
Review by:  Pam

In depth and great maps and illustrations. Part of THE SEAFARERS Time-Life Series.

Farm Fatale

Author: Wendy Holden
Stars: 3
Review by:  Pam

Another British chick-lit book. City girl moves to a tiny village,etc.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

Author: Jamie Ford
Stars: 4
Review by:  ddlesmom

 Debut novel.  Easy summer read about love, family obligations and cultural traditions. 

Blood Rites (Dresden Files)

Author: Jim Butcher
Stars: 4
Review by:  mea

 This is book was published before and has a lot of start up info about Dresden and why he is what he is.   It filled in a lot of holes for me since I didn't get to it until now.

Bowled Over

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3
Review by:  mea

 Another fun, campy read.  Its fun to read an author that pokes fun at their chosen profession.

Fragile

Author:  Lisa Unger
Stars: 2
Review by:  patco81

 I had a hard time remembering the locale: with such character names as Graham, Maggie, Jones, Melody and Marshall, and the quaint village they live in called The Hollows (purportedly a suburb of NYC), where people routinely sip tea, I kept drifting into the mindset of an English mystery.  Would that the case, though: this book is heavy-handed, repetitive and rather boring.  And surprisingly, the author seems to advocate guilt and mental anguish as adequate substitutes for the justice system.

Strangers at the Feast

Author: Jennifer Vanderbes
Stars: 1
Review by:  patco81

Contrived plot; highly unlikeable, self-absorbed characters.

I'm a Good Mother: a devotional book for the not-so-perfect mom

Author: Gigi Schweikert
Stars: 4
Review by:  L. Z.

 Excellent book...full of encouragement and great practical parenting ideas!  Nicely set up to read one short section a day when you've just got a few minutes to yourself (or cruise through a few at a time, if you've got more time on your hands!).

Tuscany for Beginners

Author: Imogen Edwards-Jones
Stars:
Review by: Judyangel

I wouldn't recommend this book.  It was silly.

The Help

Author: Kathryn Stockett
Stars: 5
Review by:  cocoran

This is the best book I read in years!  I heard that it is even better on sound recording, so I am going to put myself on hold for that!

Can't Wait to Get to Heaven

Author: Fannie Flagg
Stars: 3
Review by: KM

Listened to the audiobook version which may have added to the intensity of the whiny, neurotic characters. But, also has inspiring people and an uplifting story. It was difficult through the first tape but something kept me coming back and by a third of the way through the book, I couldn't wait to hear more.

Mornings in Jenin

Author: Susan Abilhawa
Stars: 5
Review by:  ADAR

 Fiction that presents the Palestinian side of the Israeli conflict with the Palestinians.  Very eye-opening to a believer in Israel.

Horsemanship Through Life

Author: Mark Rashid
Stars: 5
Review by:  RjS

 The author suffered a series of falls, which over time, affected his riding form. Compensating for the back pain he was experiencing, he was riding without balance. The revelation sent him on a personal journey, where he understood that being out of balance extended to other parts of his life, beyond riding. So, through friends, he learns about martial arts training and studies Aikido and begins to restore the balance he has been missing for so long. A phenomenal book. Very powerful and one of my favorites this summer.

The Puzzle Lady Vs. The Sudoku Lady

Author: Parnall Hall
Stars: 3
Review by:  mystery lover

 Has a few more twists than some of the puzzle lady books 

Leota's Garden

Author: Francine Rivers
Stars: 5
Review by:  Roxy

Family relationships and caring for others all wrapped up in writing which makes you want more.

Girl with a Pearl Earring

Author: Tracy Chevalier
Stars: 3
Review by:  bookaweek

History brought to life through a different perspective. I liked it.

Dixieland Sushi

Author: Cara Lockwood
Stars: 3
Review by:  bookaweek
  
Somewhat predictable, but a very funny beach read.

Still Summer

Author:Jaquelyn Mitchard
Stars: 5
Review by:  Liza

Great author, great story, great characters, great book.

Lead-Pipe Cinch

Author: Christy Evans
Stars: 4
Review by:  L.Z.

If you read the first of this series (Sink Trap) and were curious about the main character's past, you'll find out her secrets in this one!  A fun, light mystery.

Think Twice

Author: Lisa Scottoline
Stars: 4
Review by:  Liza

As usual, an engaging, fun attention-getter.

Puppies for Dummies

Author: Sarah Hodgson
Stars: 3
Review by:  bookwormmoma

Good advice.

Murder on the Rocks

Author: Karen MacInerney
Stars: 4
Review by: Barbie

I enjoyed this fun, relaxing read set on the Maine coast. 

Don't Look Twice

Author: Andrew Gross
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da

I think I read this one before, but I still kept at it - and enjoyed it nonetheless.

The Cookbook Collector

Author: Allegra Goodman
Stars: 4
Review by: patco81

Jess, w/her head-in-the-clouds philosopher's perspective, & Emily, a dot.com pragmatist, are as different as sisters can be.  Caught up in the turbulence of the approaching millennium, each finds her values, beliefs and goals challenged, romantic choices questioned and family obligations/traditions tested. The supporting cast of characters, w/the exception of Emily's somewhat wooden and enigmatic fiance, are wonderfully drawn.

Red Hook Road

Author: Ayelet Waldman
Stars: 5
Review by:  patco81

This book's theme is proof of the old saying, "Man plans, God laughs."  Reminiscent of a Greek or derivative Shakespearean tragedy, this novel follows four years of two families' quest for relief from unimaginable grief and loss.  Within the framework of a Maine village where longtime residents harbor resentment toward the more affluent summer visitors from "away," such characters as a Holocaust survivor, a Cambodian-born music prodigy, academics, lawyers, romantics and a no-nonsense librarian come together toward a greater understanding and tolerance/acceptance of one another.  Very well-written, w/an outstanding vocabulary (try tossing "apotheosis" into your own writing without seeming pretentious)!

Maggie by the Book

Author: Kasey Michaels
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mea

First time reading this author - just picked it out of the stacks.  Cute, campy and a fun read.  It felt predictable but it ended up with some surprises.  Took out more from this author to see what else she has.

Sphinx

Author: Robin Cook
Stars: 3
Review by:  JamBob

Romp around the treasures of Egypt as killers from the black market chase you through Cairo and Luxor. This is a fun read with a sprinkling of Egyptology to boot.

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner

Author: Stephenie Meyer
Stars: 4
Review by:  DebH09

After thoroughly enjoying the Twilight series it was nice to have a perspective from the other side.

The Bradbury Report: a Novel

Author: Steven Polansky
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy

This novel is written as the "factual" account of the human cloning practice in America in 2071. It took a while for me to get into it, but when I finished it, I was glad I read it. It brings up a lot of thought-generating questions for the human race to consider as we go forward.

The Dance of Anger

Author: Harriet Lerner
Stars: 3
Review by: 727 Oxford

Recommended by Lerner's colleague.  I found some helpful but missing out a lot other life's situations.

The Gilded Web

Author: Mary Balogh
Stars: 1
Review by: smudge

Even if you're looking for mindless summer reading, there are better stories.

The Jesus I Never Knew

Author: Philip Yancey
Stars: 4
Review by: Holly B.

I wanted to gain a more complex understanding of Jesus and his ministry during his time on earth and was not disappointed. The author provides good historical information on what was occurring in and around Jerusalem at the time of Christ. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. 

Caught

Author: Harlan Coben
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR

Quick mystery with good ending.  I read it in one day.

Her Fearful Symmetry

Author:  Audrey Niffenegger
Stars:  3
Review by:  Mich D

Ghost story about twins being haunted in a flat in London.  Great characters but I HATED how it ended.  By the author of Time Traveler's Wife which I liked a lot better, but this is still a good read.

The Faculty Club

Author: Danny Tobey
Stars:  4
Review by: Library Aimee

It was a mystery/thriller set at an undisclosed Ivy League law school...it was Dan Brown lite!   A fast read, very engaging.

The Walk

Author: Richard Paul Evans
Stars: 5
Review by: Alex

The Walk was such a fantastic read.  It provides a journey to the heart making one think about all that really means the most in someone's life.  It's the first in a series that everyone should take a walk with.

Angelina

Author: Andrew Morton
Stars: 3
Review by: scrappy3

Typical "unauthorized" biography by Andrew Morton with few surprises.

The Good Psychologist

Author: Noam Shpancer
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da

Although it is a novel, it has the feel of being in a real therapy session.

Congratulations to...

... littlekimmer, our Week #10  Prize Winner!!!

Heart of the Matter

Author: Emily Griffin
Stars: 3.5
Review by: reademquik

Good story.  I enjoyed it, but the ending was predictable.

Book of a Thousand Days

Author: Shannon Hale
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy

A princess and her servant are sentenced to being locked in a tower for seven years because the princess refused to marry the man her father chose for her.  The book is written by the servant as diary entries.  There are many twists and turns, as well as tense moments and tender interactions.  It's been a long time since I didn't want to put a book down (or, in this case, turn off the car when I got in my driveway), yet that is what happened with this book.

Reckless

Author: Andrew Gross
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da

A thriller about the world financial crisis, which I thought I would not finish, but I did.

Eternal Kiss of Darkness

Author: Jeaniene Frost
Stars: 3
Review by: mea

A stand alone, but a continuation of an ongoing story.  Explained a lot of stuff, but was somewhat predictable.

The Lovers

Author: Vendela Vida
Stars: 2
Review by: ADAR

Not much point to the whole thing.

Chains of Ice (The Chosen Ones)

Author: Christina Dodd
Stars: 3
Review by: mea

A stand alone, continuation of a story line. Somewhat predictable.

The Cookbook Collector

Author: Allegra Goodman
Stars: 2
Review by: ADAR

Dotcom from before 9/11 to after.  Too many sub plots.

The Last Chinese Chef

Author: Nicole Mones
Stars: 5
Review by:  smudge

Be prepared to want really good Chinese food when you read this story.

The Fashion Hound Murders

Author: Elaine Viets
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.

I like this series, and this book was no exception!

The Daily Coyote

Author: Shreve Stockton
Stars: 5
Review by:  reademquik

Driving cross country on a motorbike, leaving NYC to relocate in the middle of Wyoming (2 hours to the nearest grocery store), and then raising a coyote pup.  What a great book and the story continues on her website, titled appropriately: www.dailycoyote.net!  The photos are absolutely stunning.

Eat, Pray, Love

Author: Elizabeth Gilbert
Stars: 4
Review by:  reademquik

Food, inspiration & romance and in some of the most awesome, exotic places.  Just imagine having the ability to take a year off from your life to travel & find yourself.  Wow.

The Deadhouse

Author: Linda Fairstein
Stars: 3
Review by:  Mary NK

Fairstein, chief prosecutor in Manhattan's Sex Crimes Unit, once more combines her insight into the criminal's and victim's minds with her love of all things NYC. Deadhouse focuses on an elite university with ties to historic "hospitals" where immigrants and prisoners were once detained along with patients. When a controversial professor is found strangled in an elevator shaft, and a research assistant goes missing, DA Alexandra Cooper races to find the girl, the connection, and the killer in a crowd of jealous & secretive academics. Woven into the plot are Cooper's love life (or lack thereof), her abiding friendship with detectives Mike Chapman and Mercer Wallace, and a plethora of trivia about The Big Apple.

Secret Daughter

Author: Shilpi Somaya Gowda
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR

New author.  Incredible book.  Couldn't put it down.  

Whiter than Snow

Author: Sandra Dallas
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR

I love all her books and this one lived up to my expectations.  Read any of hers---all different subjects but all great. 

The Island

Author: Elin Hildebrand
Stars: 5
Review by:  Kee Read

I have read most of this author's books and found them enjoyable.  Believable story lines and likeable characters throughout book.

Accidental Best Seller

Author: Wendy Wax
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR

Good look into the publishing game.  Fast read.

Embracing the Wide Sky

Author: Daniel Tammet
Stars: 2
Review by: BKF

Autistic savant, Daniel Tammet's second book. In parts reads more like a text book, dry at times, and (for me) had the ability of imparting information overload. That said, his is an interesting perspective of how our mind works.

House Rules

Author: Jodi Picoult
Stars: 5
Review by: deck reader

Very informative about Asperger's.  Surprising plot and ending.

Innocent

Author: Scott Turow
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da

A "Who-Done-It" in the Scott Turow tradition.

The Chocolate Puppy Puzzle

Author: JoAnna Carl
Stars: 2
Review by: nanibev

This is a nice change of pace for those who have been doing heavy reading.  Not the most well written, but cute and light and amusing.

No Control (Dangerous Seductions)

Author:  Shannon K. Butcher
Stars: 4
Review by: mea

After reading a lot of her husband's works I found some of her books.  This is the second in a stand alone series (need to find find the 1st).  Nice mystery romance.  Has some typical romance book themes but overall a good read.

Ritual of Proof

Author: Dara Joy
Stars: 4
Review by:  mea

Neat book that turns our male centered society around by having the same style of rules but females in charge.  In some ways it's rather humorous to see how silly some rules are or have been against women when they apply equally to men.  This is set in a futuristic world that has aspects of Regency England to it.  Kind of like a Paranormal Historical Romance story.  Nice read.

Burning Alive

Author: Shannon K. Butcher
Stars: 4
Review by:  mea

This is the first in her Sentinel Wars series.  Unique story of good vs evil with some twists & romance.  A little difficult to get a feeling for all the players but I am sure they will develop well with the rest of the series. 

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Just Jennifer

Why We Fight --- Why We Need Love---Why Our Decisions Don’t Matter   Series Editor Simon VanBooy

Short story author Simon Van Booy has assembled three collections of excerpts and art that address the questions posed by the title of each of these books. Each book is an eloquent, thoughtful assemblage of passages, quotations, poems and artwork illustrating our need for love, why we fight and why the everyday decisions we make in our life don’t genuinely affect the overall outcomes of our lives. VanBooy’s thoughtful selections include passages from the Bible, Greek playwrights and philosophers, modern day philosophers, Shakespeare, poets, novelists throughout the centuries and some interesting selections from 20th century non-fiction authors. The entries are not arranged chronologically by the written date and each entry is introduced by a brief, thoughtful commentary from VanBooy. The elegant writing that is a signature of VanBooy’s short stories is effective here as well.