Author: Caroline Murphy
Stars: 4
Review by: bibliophiles
Interesting book about a little known Medici family member. Reads more like historical novel than a biography.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Will I See My Dog in Heaven?: God's Saving Love for the Whole Family of Creation
Author: Jack Wintz
Stars: 3
Review by: RjS
The author, a Franciscan Priest who writes for the St. Anthony Messenger attempts to answer this question. Using scripture from the Bible, he points out that animals and humans make up all of creation; each species is a viable part. I really enjoyed reading the perspectives using the story of Noah and Jonah. However, what really grabbed my attention was St. Francis of Assisi and how this man, who lived in the 12th century, was so ecologically minded. He was so ahead of his time and makes all that he preached, suddenly, fresh and new.
Stars: 3
Review by: RjS
The author, a Franciscan Priest who writes for the St. Anthony Messenger attempts to answer this question. Using scripture from the Bible, he points out that animals and humans make up all of creation; each species is a viable part. I really enjoyed reading the perspectives using the story of Noah and Jonah. However, what really grabbed my attention was St. Francis of Assisi and how this man, who lived in the 12th century, was so ecologically minded. He was so ahead of his time and makes all that he preached, suddenly, fresh and new.
The Virgin of Small Plains
Author: Nance Pickard
Stars: 5
Review by: Katherine B.
The Virgin of Small Plains is so much more than a standard mystery book, as it details the impact of a "mysterious" murder of a young girl on a small farm town in the mid-west. The secrets, lies, fears, banishments, losses, and confused emotions are uncovered in scenes from "before" vs "after" the crime. Meanwhile, the murdered mystery girl has taken on almost mystical healing qualities to the living. The Virgin of Small Plains is a masterful, powerful novel, filled with regret and loss -- and redemption.
Stars: 5
Review by: Katherine B.
The Virgin of Small Plains is so much more than a standard mystery book, as it details the impact of a "mysterious" murder of a young girl on a small farm town in the mid-west. The secrets, lies, fears, banishments, losses, and confused emotions are uncovered in scenes from "before" vs "after" the crime. Meanwhile, the murdered mystery girl has taken on almost mystical healing qualities to the living. The Virgin of Small Plains is a masterful, powerful novel, filled with regret and loss -- and redemption.
While My Pretty One Sleeps
Author: Anne Candeo
Stars: 3
Review by: book diva
This is the first in a knitting mystery series. I enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next.
Stars: 3
Review by: book diva
This is the first in a knitting mystery series. I enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next.
Chances Are
Author: Barbara Bretton
Stars: 3
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
As all of Barbara Bretton's novels, this was a lovely, light, happy reading book. This one also takes place in an imaginary town along the Jersey Shore, so it is full of NJ names and places, which is fun.
Stars: 3
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
As all of Barbara Bretton's novels, this was a lovely, light, happy reading book. This one also takes place in an imaginary town along the Jersey Shore, so it is full of NJ names and places, which is fun.
The Blue Bedroom
Author: Rosamunde Pilcher
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
Just 13 short stories, and so easy to identify with her characters and their relationships.
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
Just 13 short stories, and so easy to identify with her characters and their relationships.
Home Safe
Author: Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 4
Review by: Back Porch Reader
Elizabeth Berg does it again exploring women's inner lives and emotions. I could really relate to the main character.
Stars: 4
Review by: Back Porch Reader
Elizabeth Berg does it again exploring women's inner lives and emotions. I could really relate to the main character.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Bones of Betrayal
Author: Jefferson Bass
Stars: 4
Review by: Liza
This series is written by a real-life forensic anthropologist, the one who founded the Body Farm in Tennessee. If you have read Cornwell or Reichs, surely you know of the Body Farm! I do enjoy this series, and was happy to find the latest one on the Bookmobile! The plot is interesting, and oddly, there is little gore (odd for a forensic novel, that is).
Stars: 4
Review by: Liza
This series is written by a real-life forensic anthropologist, the one who founded the Body Farm in Tennessee. If you have read Cornwell or Reichs, surely you know of the Body Farm! I do enjoy this series, and was happy to find the latest one on the Bookmobile! The plot is interesting, and oddly, there is little gore (odd for a forensic novel, that is).
Everything Asian
Author: Sung J. Woo
Stars: 1
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
Truly dreary, although really fast read, finished it in a few hours. Thought it would be cute coming of age novel of a 12 year old Korean immigrant, it is not. I did not care for the satire.
Stars: 1
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
Truly dreary, although really fast read, finished it in a few hours. Thought it would be cute coming of age novel of a 12 year old Korean immigrant, it is not. I did not care for the satire.
Admission
Author: Jean Hanff Korelitz
Stars: 2
Review by: book diva
This book is really long and takes a while for you to get into it. There is somewhat of a surprise for the ending which I never would have expected from the main character.
Stars: 2
Review by: book diva
This book is really long and takes a while for you to get into it. There is somewhat of a surprise for the ending which I never would have expected from the main character.
Someone Like You
Author: Barbara Bretton
Stars: 4
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
All of Barbara Bretton's books are wonderful, and have heartwarming stories. This one is another light, fun, beach reading story, much like Luanne Rice novels.
Stars: 4
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
All of Barbara Bretton's books are wonderful, and have heartwarming stories. This one is another light, fun, beach reading story, much like Luanne Rice novels.
The First Family
Author: David Baldacci
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
Excellent plot and interesting characters. Great read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
Excellent plot and interesting characters. Great read.
Very Valentine
Author: Adriana Trigiani
Stars: 5
Review by: Mary Anne Z
I LOVED it - Especially as an Italian American; like all of her books - so nostalgic with strong characters and personalities.
Stars: 5
Review by: Mary Anne Z
I LOVED it - Especially as an Italian American; like all of her books - so nostalgic with strong characters and personalities.
The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes
Author: Jennifer Crusie, Eileen Dreyer, Anne Stuart
Stars: 4
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
This is a fun, silly book with magic in the night!
Stars: 4
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
This is a fun, silly book with magic in the night!
People of the Deer
Author: Farley Mowat
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I would really have given this book ten stars if I could. This book was first published in 1951, and has still not lost its strong relevance in the need to preserve the last inland Eskimos, "the people of the deer." This is a wonderful story of the people, their past and present. Farley Mowat writes with love and compassion, and this is a just a fabulous book. I want to read the rest of this very popular Canadian writer and conservationist.
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I would really have given this book ten stars if I could. This book was first published in 1951, and has still not lost its strong relevance in the need to preserve the last inland Eskimos, "the people of the deer." This is a wonderful story of the people, their past and present. Farley Mowat writes with love and compassion, and this is a just a fabulous book. I want to read the rest of this very popular Canadian writer and conservationist.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Still Life
Author: Joy Fielding
Stars: 4
Review by: Judyangel
A good book. I read it in two days. Very different than most mysteries.
Stars: 4
Review by: Judyangel
A good book. I read it in two days. Very different than most mysteries.
The Lucky One
Author: Nicholas Sparks
Stars: 4
Review by: Nancy W
This is a light easy to read romantic novel with some suspense. Sparks keeps you guessing about what is coming next, just enough to hold your interest. I recommend it.
Stars: 4
Review by: Nancy W
This is a light easy to read romantic novel with some suspense. Sparks keeps you guessing about what is coming next, just enough to hold your interest. I recommend it.
September
Author: Rosamunde Pilcher
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
Her books are always lovely but this was one was exceptional.
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy M.
Her books are always lovely but this was one was exceptional.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Jennifer Johnson Is Sick of Being Single
Author: Heather McElhatton
Stars: 4
Review by: bibliophiles
The book was good and had some funny parts. It's not your standard Chick Lit book. Particularly the way it ends. But it was enjoyable.
Stars: 4
Review by: bibliophiles
The book was good and had some funny parts. It's not your standard Chick Lit book. Particularly the way it ends. But it was enjoyable.
This Child Will Be Great
Author: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Stars: 5
Review by: Tartu
This it is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's story is amazing, as is the story of Liberia. The political, economic and cultural history is woven into Ms. Sirleaf's story and is fascinating. A very inspiring story and woman.
Stars: 5
Review by: Tartu
This it is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's story is amazing, as is the story of Liberia. The political, economic and cultural history is woven into Ms. Sirleaf's story and is fascinating. A very inspiring story and woman.
Mercury in Retrograde
Author: Paula Froelich
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
The lives of three young women, all at turning points in their lives, collide with mixed results. Good plot; characters not that interesting.
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
The lives of three young women, all at turning points in their lives, collide with mixed results. Good plot; characters not that interesting.
Dolphin Key
Author: Jon Land
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
A pro-forma novel to advance the cause of dolphin therapy for humans.
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
A pro-forma novel to advance the cause of dolphin therapy for humans.
The Story of Lucy Gault
Author: William Trevor
Stars: 2
Review by: ddlesmom
I rated this book a 2 only because it was a bit depressing. It certainly is well written and also on the list of 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die. Historical fiction. 1920s Ireland. Ireland and England still at odds. An Irish/English family decide to leave the country after someone tries to torch their house. 9 year old girl doesn't want to leave and runs away. Family believes her dead and leaves the country ... that's just in the first few chapters!
Stars: 2
Review by: ddlesmom
I rated this book a 2 only because it was a bit depressing. It certainly is well written and also on the list of 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die. Historical fiction. 1920s Ireland. Ireland and England still at odds. An Irish/English family decide to leave the country after someone tries to torch their house. 9 year old girl doesn't want to leave and runs away. Family believes her dead and leaves the country ... that's just in the first few chapters!
The Help
Author: Kathryn Stockett
Stars: 5
Review by: bibliophiles
I couldn't put this book down. It was a great read.
Stars: 5
Review by: bibliophiles
I couldn't put this book down. It was a great read.
Whole Heart, Whole Horse
Author: Mark Rashid
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
"'That horse sure likes you,' the old man said one afternoon after he watched The Black stand at the gate and nicker. 'I want you to remember that, cuz what that horse is giving you...well, that don't happen everyday.'"
This was an incredibly special book for me. I have read Mark Rashid's other books and I enjoyed the others but as a horseowner, this book just did it for me.
Stars: 5
Review by: RjS
"'That horse sure likes you,' the old man said one afternoon after he watched The Black stand at the gate and nicker. 'I want you to remember that, cuz what that horse is giving you...well, that don't happen everyday.'"
This was an incredibly special book for me. I have read Mark Rashid's other books and I enjoyed the others but as a horseowner, this book just did it for me.
Blue Noon
Author: Scott Westerfeld
Stars: 4
Review by: Rebecca Schmierer
This book is the third in the Midnighters series and is a really great read if you like his books (Uglies, Peeps, etc). It's an exciting book and really easy to get through if you want to read a book in a couple days.
Stars: 4
Review by: Rebecca Schmierer
This book is the third in the Midnighters series and is a really great read if you like his books (Uglies, Peeps, etc). It's an exciting book and really easy to get through if you want to read a book in a couple days.
Voices
Author: Arnaldur Indridason
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Takes place in Iceland. A mystery. Not too graphic.
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Takes place in Iceland. A mystery. Not too graphic.
The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit
Author: Lucette Lagnado
Stars: 2
Review by: ADAR
Biography. Very limited interest to readers.
Stars: 2
Review by: ADAR
Biography. Very limited interest to readers.
Bridge to Terabithia
Author: Katherine Paterson
Stars: 3
Review by: aleta361
This book was fine for adults but definitely NOT a children's book.
Stars: 3
Review by: aleta361
This book was fine for adults but definitely NOT a children's book.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Strong Enough to Die
Author: Jon Land
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Land uses the lore of the Texas Rangers as a background to a modern thriller.
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Land uses the lore of the Texas Rangers as a background to a modern thriller.
Broken Trail
Author: Alan Geoffrion
Stars: 2
Review by: Carole S.
Dialect and vocabulary were a poor match. Expected a better book since it was an Alternate Selection of Book-of-the-Month and a selection of History Book Club, Literary Club and Doubleday Book Club, and was also made into a movie.
Stars: 2
Review by: Carole S.
Dialect and vocabulary were a poor match. Expected a better book since it was an Alternate Selection of Book-of-the-Month and a selection of History Book Club, Literary Club and Doubleday Book Club, and was also made into a movie.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Simple Country Wisdom
Author: Susan Waggoner
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
Some nice ideas and pretty photos, but sometimes the text contradicts itself: in one part, Waggoner recommends adding salt to boiling water to keep it boiling, but a page later states she never adds salt to pasta water, only olive oil to prevent sticking, which most professional chefs agree does nothing to prevent sticking, that large amounts of rapidly boiling water and attentive stirring prevent sticking.
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
Some nice ideas and pretty photos, but sometimes the text contradicts itself: in one part, Waggoner recommends adding salt to boiling water to keep it boiling, but a page later states she never adds salt to pasta water, only olive oil to prevent sticking, which most professional chefs agree does nothing to prevent sticking, that large amounts of rapidly boiling water and attentive stirring prevent sticking.
Matters of the Heart
Author: Danielle Steel
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
Little darker than usual Danielle Steel stories.
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
Little darker than usual Danielle Steel stories.
Digging to America
Author: Anne Tyler
Stars: 3
Review by: Myra from Milford
Good book for a woman's book discussion group. A new twist on diaspora.
Stars: 3
Review by: Myra from Milford
Good book for a woman's book discussion group. A new twist on diaspora.
Death at La Fenice
Author: Donna Leon
Stars: 4
Review by: Transit Story Reader
I enjoyed this mystery book about a murder that takes place at the La Fenice, the Opera House, in Venice. Author Donna Leon has a way of creating very strong visual images with broad strokes describing this charming city of mystery and art. She also allows the underbelly of the city to be seen as well thereby creating a balance of what the visitor to Venice sees and what the residents of the city experience. Maestro Helmut Wellauer has been murdered and at the scene of the crime we meet Guido Brunetti, Vice-Commissario of police. Leon takes us on a tour of this city as Brunetti meets with the many characters in the story. As he travels from one area of the city to another on his search for clues, the reader is given the opportunity to experience Venice with its many canals and passages weaving us into the history of the city and its people. It was a pleasure to read and left me with a great desire to visit Venice and walk the streets that Commissario Brunetti walks daily as he solves the many crimes of his beautiful city.
Stars: 4
Review by: Transit Story Reader
I enjoyed this mystery book about a murder that takes place at the La Fenice, the Opera House, in Venice. Author Donna Leon has a way of creating very strong visual images with broad strokes describing this charming city of mystery and art. She also allows the underbelly of the city to be seen as well thereby creating a balance of what the visitor to Venice sees and what the residents of the city experience. Maestro Helmut Wellauer has been murdered and at the scene of the crime we meet Guido Brunetti, Vice-Commissario of police. Leon takes us on a tour of this city as Brunetti meets with the many characters in the story. As he travels from one area of the city to another on his search for clues, the reader is given the opportunity to experience Venice with its many canals and passages weaving us into the history of the city and its people. It was a pleasure to read and left me with a great desire to visit Venice and walk the streets that Commissario Brunetti walks daily as he solves the many crimes of his beautiful city.
Matters of the Heart
Author: Danielle Steel
Stars: 3
Review by: book diva
This was Steel's 100th book and I have read almost all of them. This one was a different kind of plot from her usual books, however, still predictable with the ending.
Stars: 3
Review by: book diva
This was Steel's 100th book and I have read almost all of them. This one was a different kind of plot from her usual books, however, still predictable with the ending.
Sanctuary
Author: Ken Bruen
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Typical Bruen; pithy, loaded sentences and captures the essence of an alcoholic.
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Typical Bruen; pithy, loaded sentences and captures the essence of an alcoholic.
Dogs and Goddesses
Author: Jennifer Crusie, Anne Stuart, Lani Diane Rich
Stars: 4
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
Fun beach reading with a witchy theme, which are always fast, silly reading.
Stars: 4
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
Fun beach reading with a witchy theme, which are always fast, silly reading.
Rookie Dad
Author: Rick Epstein
Stars: 3
Review by: dinah
Collection of articles written about family life in Frenchtown, NJ. A fun book to read.
Stars: 3
Review by: dinah
Collection of articles written about family life in Frenchtown, NJ. A fun book to read.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
The Way We Were
Author: Marcia Willett
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
It was a lovely English family story in the same wonderful tradition of Rosamunde Pilcher and Maeve Binchy. Highly recommended.
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
It was a lovely English family story in the same wonderful tradition of Rosamunde Pilcher and Maeve Binchy. Highly recommended.
The Ultimate Gift
Author: Jim Stovall
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
Sometimes I pick up a book because something about it pulls me; for this one, it was the drawings and the chapter titles (The Gift of Love; The Gift of Problems). Turns out it was a book about a guy turning his life attitude around. Could have been a better read if it actually followed the character around; instead it was basically a summary of his progress each month.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
Sometimes I pick up a book because something about it pulls me; for this one, it was the drawings and the chapter titles (The Gift of Love; The Gift of Problems). Turns out it was a book about a guy turning his life attitude around. Could have been a better read if it actually followed the character around; instead it was basically a summary of his progress each month.
Fugitive
Author: Phillip Margolin
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Twists and turns in the plot; and who's the good guy anyway?
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
Twists and turns in the plot; and who's the good guy anyway?
Charmed Death
Author: Madelyn Alt
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I love this series of four books. It is light, fun and a fast, easy beach type of read. You do like the characters and how they relate and interact, and it is just plain fun.
Stars: 5
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I love this series of four books. It is light, fun and a fast, easy beach type of read. You do like the characters and how they relate and interact, and it is just plain fun.
How to Buy a Love of Reading
Author: Tanya Egan Gibson
Stars: 1
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I took it out, because it had a catchy title. I was not into it, and forced myself to read more. I started to care about some of the characters. All in all, I do not recommend the book, and I forced myself to finish it. I really give it a 1 and a half, since I did finish it.
Stars: 1
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I took it out, because it had a catchy title. I was not into it, and forced myself to read more. I started to care about some of the characters. All in all, I do not recommend the book, and I forced myself to finish it. I really give it a 1 and a half, since I did finish it.
Bay of Spirits: A Love Story
Author: Farley Mowat
Stars: 3
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I read this book, suggested on a HCL reading list, because I have been to Newfoundland and loved it. I had no idea that the author, Farley Mowat, was a highly acclaimed Canadian author, and conservationist. I enjoyed the book, since I had traveled all over Newfoundland and parts of Labrador one summer for vacation a few years ago. It was interesting to read about the isolated islands in the 1960's with the history of the island and its people. If you would love to learn about a truly beautiful island, and wonderful, hardworking people, this is your book. They still kill/eat whales, seals and other animals we would never eat here, and the author treads on this carefully, against agreeing with people who kill animals to live, and sometimes for sport. It is a look into another world.
Stars: 3
Review by: TooManyBooksTooLittleTime
I read this book, suggested on a HCL reading list, because I have been to Newfoundland and loved it. I had no idea that the author, Farley Mowat, was a highly acclaimed Canadian author, and conservationist. I enjoyed the book, since I had traveled all over Newfoundland and parts of Labrador one summer for vacation a few years ago. It was interesting to read about the isolated islands in the 1960's with the history of the island and its people. If you would love to learn about a truly beautiful island, and wonderful, hardworking people, this is your book. They still kill/eat whales, seals and other animals we would never eat here, and the author treads on this carefully, against agreeing with people who kill animals to live, and sometimes for sport. It is a look into another world.
In My Brother's Image
Author: Eugene Pogeny
Stars: 4
Review by: Paula N
Not a quick or easy read but well worth the time. Very difficult subject with an interesting, thought provoking twist especially since it is nonfiction. Does read like a novel, however.
Stars: 4
Review by: Paula N
Not a quick or easy read but well worth the time. Very difficult subject with an interesting, thought provoking twist especially since it is nonfiction. Does read like a novel, however.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
The Color of Lightning
Author: Paulette Jiles
Stars: 5
Review by: Page Turner
Based on oral histories of the post civil war, this book weaves the heroic stories of three cultures - black, indian and quaker on the Texas plains.
Stars: 5
Review by: Page Turner
Based on oral histories of the post civil war, this book weaves the heroic stories of three cultures - black, indian and quaker on the Texas plains.
Prayers for Sale
Author: Sandra Dallas
Stars: 4
Review by: Back Porch Reader
Set in the 30's in a mining town in Colorado - women share their lives, and form friendships over the quilting frame - very enjoyable!
Stars: 4
Review by: Back Porch Reader
Set in the 30's in a mining town in Colorado - women share their lives, and form friendships over the quilting frame - very enjoyable!
A Little Bit Wicked
Author: Kristin Chenoweth
Stars: 3
Review by: Library Aimee
An interesting and upbeat biography - especially if you are a fan of hers!
Stars: 3
Review by: Library Aimee
An interesting and upbeat biography - especially if you are a fan of hers!
As Long As We Both Shall Live
Author: Lurlene McDaniel
Stars: 5
Review by: Babygirl Shaina 27
AMAZING!!!
Stars: 5
Review by: Babygirl Shaina 27
AMAZING!!!
Inkheart
Author: Cornelia Funke
Stars: 4
Review by: Night time reader
This book is Fantasy. It takes you to a whole new world and the premise of the story is truly amazing! There are fairies, villians and heros.
I am starting the second book in the series.
Stars: 4
Review by: Night time reader
This book is Fantasy. It takes you to a whole new world and the premise of the story is truly amazing! There are fairies, villians and heros.
I am starting the second book in the series.
The Diary
Author: Eileen Goudge
Stars: 4
Review by: book diva
This book is a nice light easy read with a little twist at the end which I never saw coming. I thoroughly enjoy her books.
Stars: 4
Review by: book diva
This book is a nice light easy read with a little twist at the end which I never saw coming. I thoroughly enjoy her books.
Enrique's Journey
Author: Sonia Nazario
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
Non fiction -- a brave boy's harrowing trip from Honduras to be reunited with his mother in the US. Contains much discussion about illegal immigrants and their plight.
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
Non fiction -- a brave boy's harrowing trip from Honduras to be reunited with his mother in the US. Contains much discussion about illegal immigrants and their plight.
Never Let Me Go
Author: Kazuo Ishiguro
Stars: 2
Review by: ddlesmom
[***SPOILER ALERT***] Included in the list of 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die - I don't get it. England late 1990s clone children are being reared in several secret hidden areas of the country. Their sole purpose is donating their vital organs later in life to advance the cures for disease. The question is - are these children considered "real people"; do they have a "soul". Interesting premise....read like a journal.
Stars: 2
Review by: ddlesmom
[***SPOILER ALERT***] Included in the list of 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die - I don't get it. England late 1990s clone children are being reared in several secret hidden areas of the country. Their sole purpose is donating their vital organs later in life to advance the cures for disease. The question is - are these children considered "real people"; do they have a "soul". Interesting premise....read like a journal.
Death and Honesty
Author: Cynthia Riggs
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
A good, dependable cozy mystery set on Cape Cod with a spry 92-year-old heroine.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
A good, dependable cozy mystery set on Cape Cod with a spry 92-year-old heroine.
Broken: A Love Story
Author: Lisa Jones
Stars: 3
Review by: RjS
This book underscores how connected we all are, to the world around us.
Stars: 3
Review by: RjS
This book underscores how connected we all are, to the world around us.
Nobody Move
Author: Denis Johnson
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
Weird, unorthodox and engrossing. Easy read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Big Da
Weird, unorthodox and engrossing. Easy read.
Shanghai Girls
Author: Lisa See
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
As good as her other books. Try them if you haven't read them.
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
As good as her other books. Try them if you haven't read them.
Handle with Care
Author: Jodi Picoult
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Sad but very interesting. It was about an illness I never heard of. Fiction but based on fact.
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Sad but very interesting. It was about an illness I never heard of. Fiction but based on fact.
Dial Emmy for Murder
Author: Eileen Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: book diva
Soap opera fans will love this one! I did!
Stars: 4
Review by: book diva
Soap opera fans will love this one! I did!
Friday, June 5, 2009
New Moon
Author: Stephenie Meyer
Stars: 4
Review by: heatherlynn
This second book in the Twilight series was great! Action-packed with an intriguing storyline.
Stars: 4
Review by: heatherlynn
This second book in the Twilight series was great! Action-packed with an intriguing storyline.
Crazy for God
Author: Frank Schaeffer
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
A crisis-of-faith that led the author out of the fold of Christian fundamentalism. A brave story.
Stars: 4
Review by: Big Da
A crisis-of-faith that led the author out of the fold of Christian fundamentalism. A brave story.
Perish Twice
Author: Robert B. Parker
Stars: 2
Review by: Lorraine Post
An easy read, but not a very good plot.
Stars: 2
Review by: Lorraine Post
An easy read, but not a very good plot.
Bridge of Sighs
Author: Richard Russo
Stars: 4
Review by: Judy M.
This wasn't as good as his Pulitzer prize novel Empire Falls but his characters stay with you long after you finish reading the book.
Stars: 4
Review by: Judy M.
This wasn't as good as his Pulitzer prize novel Empire Falls but his characters stay with you long after you finish reading the book.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Welcome Back!
As I was searching for a great quote to open the 3rd Annual season, I came across these two:
~Atwood H. Townsend
~John Witherspoon
This is something I always have trouble with. Once I'm a few chapters into a book, I feel compelled to finish it, whether I am enjoying it or not. The two quotes above, though, were not quite enough to convince me to change my ways. But then I came across this quote:
~John Sutherland
Well, I don't know of many people who can afford to spend 40 hours a week reading, let alone read a novel in three hours! So for me, reading all the novels published would take more like 16,300 lifetimes! Now that puts things into perspective!!!
So maybe I will start abandoning books that I'm not enjoying. We'll see how that goes. And I thought I'd pass this idea along for all of you as you get ready to start your summer reading. Only 10 more days and we're off!
~Terry
Never force yourself to read a book that you do not enjoy. There are so many good books in the world that it is foolish to waste time on one that does not give you pleasure.
~Atwood H. Townsend
Never read a book through merely because you have begun it.
~John Witherspoon
This is something I always have trouble with. Once I'm a few chapters into a book, I feel compelled to finish it, whether I am enjoying it or not. The two quotes above, though, were not quite enough to convince me to change my ways. But then I came across this quote:
Given a reading career of fifty years, a 40-hour reading week, a 46-week working year and three hours per novel, you would, as I calculate, need 163 lifetimes to read [all the novels currently published].
~John Sutherland
Well, I don't know of many people who can afford to spend 40 hours a week reading, let alone read a novel in three hours! So for me, reading all the novels published would take more like 16,300 lifetimes! Now that puts things into perspective!!!
So maybe I will start abandoning books that I'm not enjoying. We'll see how that goes. And I thought I'd pass this idea along for all of you as you get ready to start your summer reading. Only 10 more days and we're off!
~Terry
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Wishing You a Book-filled Winter!!!
Author: Terry
This ends our 2008 2nd Annual Adult Summer Reading Club. :-(
Keep reading though! If you'd like an extra reading log in which to keep track of your winter reads, we do have some leftovers. Let me know and I'll get one out to you.
Here's a winter event in which you might be interested:
The Theatre at Raritan Valley Community College is starting a new series called "Tuesdays with Stories." I'm not sure exactly what the performance is - whether it's a reading of excerpts or an actual acting out of the story - but it sounds interesting nonetheless. Each performance includes pre- and post-performance discussion and light snacks.
Here's their lineup:
Sept. 16 - The Secret Life of Bees
Nov. 18 - The House on Mango Street
Jan. 20 - Black Boy
Mar. 17 - Teacher Man
May 19 - Kite Runner
Performances are at Noon (coffee & snacks) for $10, and at 7 pm (wine & cheese) for $20.
If you want to find out more, the number of the theatre is (908) 725-3420. We also have packets available in the main and North library locations.
I intend to go to the evening performances, so maybe I'll see you there!
~Terry
This ends our 2008 2nd Annual Adult Summer Reading Club. :-(
Keep reading though! If you'd like an extra reading log in which to keep track of your winter reads, we do have some leftovers. Let me know and I'll get one out to you.
Here's a winter event in which you might be interested:
The Theatre at Raritan Valley Community College is starting a new series called "Tuesdays with Stories." I'm not sure exactly what the performance is - whether it's a reading of excerpts or an actual acting out of the story - but it sounds interesting nonetheless. Each performance includes pre- and post-performance discussion and light snacks.
Here's their lineup:
Sept. 16 - The Secret Life of Bees
Nov. 18 - The House on Mango Street
Jan. 20 - Black Boy
Mar. 17 - Teacher Man
May 19 - Kite Runner
Performances are at Noon (coffee & snacks) for $10, and at 7 pm (wine & cheese) for $20.
If you want to find out more, the number of the theatre is (908) 725-3420. We also have packets available in the main and North library locations.
I intend to go to the evening performances, so maybe I'll see you there!
~Terry
Friday, August 29, 2008
An Ice Cold Grave
Author: Charlaine Harris
Bugs: 4
Review by: Stago
Not as great of a tale as the previous books. It was enjoyable.
Bugs: 4
Review by: Stago
Not as great of a tale as the previous books. It was enjoyable.
Living Dead in Dallas
Author: Charlaine Harris
Bugs: 5
Review by: Stago
Great vampire thriller. I like the main vampire character, Eric.
Bugs: 5
Review by: Stago
Great vampire thriller. I like the main vampire character, Eric.
All Together Dead
Author: Charlaine Harris
Bugs: 5
Review by: Stago
Great book. Simply makes you wonder.
Bugs: 5
Review by: Stago
Great book. Simply makes you wonder.
Grave Surprise
Author: Charlaine Harris
Bugs: 5
Review by: Stago
I really enjoyed this book. I find that her stories always have something special and a little extra!
Bugs: 5
Review by: Stago
I really enjoyed this book. I find that her stories always have something special and a little extra!
Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun
Author: Reginald Lewis
Bugs: 3
Review by: Aly
Interesting life, but not written as well as it could have been. Good story of rising up from poverty.
Bugs: 3
Review by: Aly
Interesting life, but not written as well as it could have been. Good story of rising up from poverty.
The Big Sky
Author: A.B. Guthrie
Bugs: 4
Review by: It's CS
A novel about mountain men of the Rockies during 1830-1843. It follows its characters through a time before the west was settled. The author has written to capture the feel of the land and the conflicts of those that were part of those lonely and majestic surroundings.
Bugs: 4
Review by: It's CS
A novel about mountain men of the Rockies during 1830-1843. It follows its characters through a time before the west was settled. The author has written to capture the feel of the land and the conflicts of those that were part of those lonely and majestic surroundings.
School in Murder
Author: Mark Richard Zubro
Bugs: 3
Review by: readingteacher
OK. A bit unconventional, but entertaining none the less.
Bugs: 3
Review by: readingteacher
OK. A bit unconventional, but entertaining none the less.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The Art of Racing in the Rain
Author: Garth Stein
Bugs: 5
Review by: readingteacher
My favorite book of the summer (so far).
Bugs: 5
Review by: readingteacher
My favorite book of the summer (so far).
Night of Many Dreams
Author: Gail Tsukiyama
Bugs: 5
Review by: 584 B.D.
Enjoy the view of China during WWII.
Bugs: 5
Review by: 584 B.D.
Enjoy the view of China during WWII.
A Crazy Little Thing Called Death
Author: Nancy Martin
Bugs: 5
Review by: funsucker
A "Blackbird Sisters Mystery" - good series. Couldn't stop.
Bugs: 5
Review by: funsucker
A "Blackbird Sisters Mystery" - good series. Couldn't stop.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Author: Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Bugs: 5
Review by: Barbie
Great little book with endearing characters. Told through a series of letters, the reader learns about the lives of a group of friends living on the Island of Guernsey in the English Channel and what happened to them during the German occupation during World War II.
Bugs: 5
Review by: Barbie
Great little book with endearing characters. Told through a series of letters, the reader learns about the lives of a group of friends living on the Island of Guernsey in the English Channel and what happened to them during the German occupation during World War II.
The Comeback Season
Author: Jennifer E. Smith
Bugs: 4
Review by: musiclover
Started slow in the beginning but a good book!
Bugs: 4
Review by: musiclover
Started slow in the beginning but a good book!
Global Ecology
Author: Wolfgang Sachs (ed.)
Bugs: 4
Review by: Kayakreader
This book is a collection of essays by individuals who have been involved in the field of ecology or environment. They are knowledgeable and thoughtful essayists. Topics range from the UN's situation to sustainability and is there really such a thing as sustainability? Points of view differ and the basis differs as well. A good book for those interested in the background of globalization.
Bugs: 4
Review by: Kayakreader
This book is a collection of essays by individuals who have been involved in the field of ecology or environment. They are knowledgeable and thoughtful essayists. Topics range from the UN's situation to sustainability and is there really such a thing as sustainability? Points of view differ and the basis differs as well. A good book for those interested in the background of globalization.
Read On... Crime Fiction
Author: Barry Trott
Bugs: 5
Review by: Wolfman
Are you looking for a new crime writer or story? If so, this is your book. Librarian Trott reviews hundreds of books. Titles are categorized by story, character, setting, mood, gender as well as other criteria.
Bugs: 5
Review by: Wolfman
Are you looking for a new crime writer or story? If so, this is your book. Librarian Trott reviews hundreds of books. Titles are categorized by story, character, setting, mood, gender as well as other criteria.
The Protectors
Author: Dan Mahoney
Bugs: 3
Review by: Wolfman
NYPD detectives McKenna and Cisco track down Basque terrorists in NY and Spain. Not one of Mahoney's better books.
Bugs: 3
Review by: Wolfman
NYPD detectives McKenna and Cisco track down Basque terrorists in NY and Spain. Not one of Mahoney's better books.
Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
Author: Winifred Watson
Bugs: 5
Review by: SpruceRunGal
One of the most enjoyable books I read in quite a while. An easy, quick read that draws you in with likable characters and a lot of charm.
Bugs: 5
Review by: SpruceRunGal
One of the most enjoyable books I read in quite a while. An easy, quick read that draws you in with likable characters and a lot of charm.
On Mexican Time
Author: Tony Cohan
Bugs: 4.5
Review by: Barbie
Tony Cohan describes his life in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico from 1985 to 1999. He "escapes" Los Angeles, California, for this beautiful mountain town with his artist wife, Masako, to live a quieter life. The book is good, reminding me of the week I spent in Ajijic and presenting me with a desire to return.
Bugs: 4.5
Review by: Barbie
Tony Cohan describes his life in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico from 1985 to 1999. He "escapes" Los Angeles, California, for this beautiful mountain town with his artist wife, Masako, to live a quieter life. The book is good, reminding me of the week I spent in Ajijic and presenting me with a desire to return.
Bad Luck and Trouble
Author: Lee Child
Bugs: 5
Review by: Michelle
Jack Reacher, part of an elite army unit back in his day, finds out that someone is killing off members of his unit and he wants to find out why. Great book if you like action/drama. Quick read.
Bugs: 5
Review by: Michelle
Jack Reacher, part of an elite army unit back in his day, finds out that someone is killing off members of his unit and he wants to find out why. Great book if you like action/drama. Quick read.
When the Emperor Was Divine
Author: Julie Otsuka
Bugs: 4
Review by: DailyCrossWord
A novel from one family's experience during the Japanese Internment. Not a very long book but I found it powerful. It made me think about the injustices being committed today by our government. At what price do we sacrifice individual rights? After 9/11 there was much fear of certain nationalities. How would you have felt towards the Japanese during WWII? It is easy to see how wrong that was in hindsight but would you have felt the same in the forties? In a very quiet, personal way you get to see the effects of prejudice on one ordinary family and the price that is paid when the government can just whisk them away without just cause.
Bugs: 4
Review by: DailyCrossWord
A novel from one family's experience during the Japanese Internment. Not a very long book but I found it powerful. It made me think about the injustices being committed today by our government. At what price do we sacrifice individual rights? After 9/11 there was much fear of certain nationalities. How would you have felt towards the Japanese during WWII? It is easy to see how wrong that was in hindsight but would you have felt the same in the forties? In a very quiet, personal way you get to see the effects of prejudice on one ordinary family and the price that is paid when the government can just whisk them away without just cause.
The Ancient Rain
Author: Domenic Stansberry
Bugs: 4
Review by: Big Da
Who dunnit unasnwered, but justice in the end anyway.
Bugs: 4
Review by: Big Da
Who dunnit unasnwered, but justice in the end anyway.
The Preacher's Daughter
Author: Beverly Lewis
Bugs: 5
Review by: SheilaP
The story gives alot of insight into the lives of the Amish people. It tells the story of a young woman who struggles with her creative desires and the restrictions of her religion and Amish community. It was an interesting look at the Amish ways and I intend to read other books in the series. Living so close to Pa. and the Amish area, it is an entertaining way to learn more about the people.
Bugs: 5
Review by: SheilaP
The story gives alot of insight into the lives of the Amish people. It tells the story of a young woman who struggles with her creative desires and the restrictions of her religion and Amish community. It was an interesting look at the Amish ways and I intend to read other books in the series. Living so close to Pa. and the Amish area, it is an entertaining way to learn more about the people.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
A Traveller's History of Germany
Author: Robert Cole
Bugs: 5
Review by: KM
I picked this book in order to read just the section on Prussian history because some family research has shown one or more came from that area and I was interested in picking up some basic knowledge of the area and that period of history. I found myself not able to stop reading and continued on. Cole is Professor of Modern British and European History at Utah State University as well as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and has lectured at British universities. I just found it very readable--it filled in a lot of blanks that weren't covered in my history courses through school.
Bugs: 5
Review by: KM
I picked this book in order to read just the section on Prussian history because some family research has shown one or more came from that area and I was interested in picking up some basic knowledge of the area and that period of history. I found myself not able to stop reading and continued on. Cole is Professor of Modern British and European History at Utah State University as well as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and has lectured at British universities. I just found it very readable--it filled in a lot of blanks that weren't covered in my history courses through school.
Cicada Summer
Author: Andrea Beaty
Bugs: 2
Review by: KM
Though this book received good reviews, I had to force my way to the end. Since it was a small book, I decided to do so, otherwise I wouldn't have bothered. A 12 year old girl goes silent for two years after her brother's death until she gets involved with a new girl in the small town she lives in. She doesn't like this girl who also has lost a mother, but eventually they come together by dramatic circumstances. Overall, an interesting story, but I didn't like the first person narrative for it for some reason.
Bugs: 2
Review by: KM
Though this book received good reviews, I had to force my way to the end. Since it was a small book, I decided to do so, otherwise I wouldn't have bothered. A 12 year old girl goes silent for two years after her brother's death until she gets involved with a new girl in the small town she lives in. She doesn't like this girl who also has lost a mother, but eventually they come together by dramatic circumstances. Overall, an interesting story, but I didn't like the first person narrative for it for some reason.
Hindi-Bindi Club
Author: Monica Pradhan
Bugs: 4
Review by: Carmella V
This is a story of three Indian families who immigrated to the U.S. and the conflict they experience between the old traditions and the new culture. Three daughters of three brave mothers discover solutions to their life problems. Kiran, divorced, returns to her family for their help in the old tradition of arranging a second marriage for her. Preity finds a way to resolve a long lost love. Rani finds the answer to her creative dry spell by returning home to India. This is a warm, well written book about family ties, Indian culture, characters and family recipes.
Bugs: 4
Review by: Carmella V
This is a story of three Indian families who immigrated to the U.S. and the conflict they experience between the old traditions and the new culture. Three daughters of three brave mothers discover solutions to their life problems. Kiran, divorced, returns to her family for their help in the old tradition of arranging a second marriage for her. Preity finds a way to resolve a long lost love. Rani finds the answer to her creative dry spell by returning home to India. This is a warm, well written book about family ties, Indian culture, characters and family recipes.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
99 Ways to Cut, Sew, Tie and Rock Your Scarf
Author: Faith Blakeney
Bugs: 5
Review by: pam b.
Tons of ideas for all ages to reuse your scarfs. Mostly for casual clothing but some accessory ideas. Very minimal sewing required for most projects.
Bugs: 5
Review by: pam b.
Tons of ideas for all ages to reuse your scarfs. Mostly for casual clothing but some accessory ideas. Very minimal sewing required for most projects.
The Whalers: A Time-Life Series Book
Author: A.B.C. Whipple
Bugs: 4
Review by: pam b.
A good book to read along with Moby Dick.
Bugs: 4
Review by: pam b.
A good book to read along with Moby Dick.
Simplify Your Space
Author: Marcia Ramsland
Bugs: 5
Review by: pam b.
Since I have so much "stuff" and a good friend of mine is a Professional Organizer I have read many of the organizing/get rid of clutter books on the market. This one is one of the best for a "beginner". It won't overwhelm you, has lots of charts, lists, is easy to read, and has quotes from some of the other well-know organizer authors. Plus it is available (as soon as I return it) in the North Branch. It is a two week book and the call number is 648.8.
Bugs: 5
Review by: pam b.
Since I have so much "stuff" and a good friend of mine is a Professional Organizer I have read many of the organizing/get rid of clutter books on the market. This one is one of the best for a "beginner". It won't overwhelm you, has lots of charts, lists, is easy to read, and has quotes from some of the other well-know organizer authors. Plus it is available (as soon as I return it) in the North Branch. It is a two week book and the call number is 648.8.
The Light Ages
Author: Ian MacLeod
Bugs: 4
Review by: pam b.
Science fiction set in a kind of Victorian England.
Bugs: 4
Review by: pam b.
Science fiction set in a kind of Victorian England.
Loose Change
Author: Sara Davidson
Bugs: 3
Review by: mom pat
Nostalgic for the sixties? This book could cure you!
Bugs: 3
Review by: mom pat
Nostalgic for the sixties? This book could cure you!
Heroes of History
Author: Will Durant
Bugs: 4
Review by: A. Natalo
Will Durant's book traces the lives of men who defined Western civilization from Confucius through Shakespeare. Although his point of view is occasionally dated, and only two women have sufficiently contributed to civilization to be mentioned, this book does remind the reader of information learned in school explained in clear terms. Not light reading.
Bugs: 4
Review by: A. Natalo
Will Durant's book traces the lives of men who defined Western civilization from Confucius through Shakespeare. Although his point of view is occasionally dated, and only two women have sufficiently contributed to civilization to be mentioned, this book does remind the reader of information learned in school explained in clear terms. Not light reading.
Help, Lord! I'm Having a Senior Moment
Author: Karen O'Connor
Bugs: 1
Review by: Barbie
My almost 90 year old dad gave me this book to read, telling me how funny it was. Oh, why do I still feel compelled to obey!?! The stories were short, very short, I guess "seniors" have a short attention span, and repetitive. I found them boring. Most disturbing was reading some of these accounts and finding out the author was much younger than myself. Ugh!
Bugs: 1
Review by: Barbie
My almost 90 year old dad gave me this book to read, telling me how funny it was. Oh, why do I still feel compelled to obey!?! The stories were short, very short, I guess "seniors" have a short attention span, and repetitive. I found them boring. Most disturbing was reading some of these accounts and finding out the author was much younger than myself. Ugh!