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MARCH: What Are We Reading?

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Thank-you for posting your March reviews here....

Maybe, just maybe.... the one who reads the most books on St. Patrick... (I might consider Ireland) will get a prize... But I'll have to find a suitable book!

But if you want to help me out.... Please number in BOLD those fitting reviews!

Auntie Nanuuq . started this discussion 1 year ago. ( reply | permalink )

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Laurie G

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Now reading "SAME SOUL MANY LIVES" by Brian Weiss and enjoying it.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Adanid P

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Now reading An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin. The novel is quite interesting about a young girl trying to make it in the art world of NYC. You get to learn a lot of the art trade also. It is illustrated with 22 famous paintings.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Jan W

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THE FASHION HOUND MURDERS by Elaine Viets

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Raspberrymocha55

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Iceberg by Clive Cussler
192 pgs.
c. 1975
4 ★s
The second entry into the Dirk Pitt series held a surprise for me. There was no Al Giordino as Dirk's loyal friend in havoc, mayhem, and saving the world. I found that very odd. Admiral Sandecker plays a large role in the story, sending Dirk to find an iceberg off the Iceland Coast. The iceberg hides the burned out hulk of an undersea mineral mining research and luxury vessel. From Iceberg to Iceland Dirk is persued by killers unknown. Someone is out to take over the world and it is Dirk's job to save us all.The novel is a definate product of the early macho 1970s. I can do nothing but laugh at the sexist remarks made throughout the book. This book would never get into print nowadays without major PC editing. I have been a fan of Dirk Pitt since the beginning.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Raspberrymocha55 (edited)

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Currently Reading Leftovers:
Ghost Story by Peter Straub (horror)
2 ★s ~~Community: The Structure of Belonging~~ by Peter Brock c. 2008 (professional reading)
3 ★s ~~Cosmos~~ by Carl Sagan c. 1980 (science)
The Blue Zone by Andrew Gross (mystery, thriller)
★s ~~City of Ashes~~ by Cassandra Clare c.2009 (YA, urban fantasy)
Morning Ran Red by Stephen Bowman (true crime)
Lunatics by Dave Barry and Alan Zwiebel c. 2012 (satire, mystery)
4 ★s ~~Iceberg~~ by Clive Cussler c. 1975 (thriller)
New CRs this month:
3 ★s ~~Celebrity in Death~~ by J. D. Robb c. 2012 (urban fantasy, mystery)
Pacific Vortex by Clive Cussler c. 1983 (thriller)
♥ 5 ★s ~~King of the Road~~ by Alex Debogorski c. 2010 (memoir)
4 ★s ~~The Tightrope Walker~~ by Dorothy Gilman c. 1979 (mystery)
Inkheart by Cornelia Funke c.2003 (fantasy, ya)
♥ ★s ~~The Glorious Mother Goose~~ selected by Cooper Edens c. 1988 (children, art)
4 ★s ~~Watercolor Bright and Beautiful~~ by Richard Karwoski c. 1988 (art)
3 ★s ~~City of Glass~~ by Cassandra Clare c. 2009 (urban fantasy,ya)
The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper c. 1965 (fantasy, ya)
4 ★s ~~Art and Max~~ by David Wiesner c.2010 (children, art)

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 7 replies
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  King of the Road by Alex Debogorski
  248 pgs.
  c. 2010
  5 ★s
  ♥
  Alex Debogorski is a Canadian ice road trucker, father of 11 and storyteller. I had so much fun reading this book. I normally don't care much for non-fiction memoirs, but this was a hoot! His stories concern growing up in the Canadian wilderness, animals, family, friends, vehicles, and general philosophy of life. Plain spoken and witty. If one is a fan of the Ice Road Truckers TV show, this is a must. If one simply enjoys good simple short stories this is also a must. It is the best book I've read this year.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  The Tightrope Walker by Dorothy Gilman
  186 pgs.
  c. 1979
  4 ★s
  Amelia Jones is 22 and all alone in the world except for her psychiatrist. She is the proud new owner of a second hand store. Upon exploring her new domain, she comes across an old hurdy gurdy. In the hurdy gurdy is hidden a note. A cry for help from a woman named Hannah. Amelila goes on a quest to find Hannah, or at least find out what became of Hannah. I've always enjoyed Gilman's Mrs. Polifax series and had never read any of her other mysteries and novels. I'm glad that I picked this up out of a pile of give-away books at my local library. Now, I want to read more of Gilman's other work, as they are so well written.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  Watercolor Bright and Beautiful by Richard Karwoski
  145 pgs.
  c. 1988
  4 ★s
  Gorgeous illustrations and howto's fill this book. These are the things I look for when purchasing an art book for myself. Karwoski uses negative and positive space inventively. He does not shy away from the brilliance of watercolor whether he is doing still life or landscape work. However, his architectural/building paintings tend to look muddy and overworked. On the whole it is a wonderful addition to my shelves.
  The Glorious Mother Goose selected by Cooper Edens
  88 pgs.
  c.1988
  ♥ 5 ★s
  I use this book with my art students of all ages. I've always enjoyed Mother Goose rhymes, but what attracts me to this book is the glorious (rightly named!) illustration variety for each rhyme. The illustrations range from black and white prints to lithographs to watercolor. For a small select volume, all I can say is, "Wow!"
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
  c. 2009
  452 pgs.
  3 ★s
  This is the #4 ALA award winner for 2009. Clary, a shadowhunter (nephilim, has angel blood), is in a quandry. She just found out that her "almost" boyfriend is really her brother Jace. Her current boyfriend was bitten by a vampire rat, which is causing complications. Her mother is in the hospital in a deep coma. Her home was destroyed, so she is living with a family friend, who used to be a shadowhunter, but through ill fortune is now a werewolf. Her father, whom she thought was dead, isn't. Plus, someone is going around murdering young vampires, werewolves, faeries and worlocks. Not to mention that Jace is about to stand trial for one of those murders and is being held til sentencing by the Silent Brothers. All and all things look pretty dim for Clary in this 2nd installment of Mortal Instruments. The first 2/3s of the book were deadly dull. The last part of the book gains a bit of momentum, thank goodness. I had trouble getting this read...months instead of what should have been a day or two. I don't really want to read the last book of this trilogy, but I will, as I hate to leave things unfinished.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  Community: The Structure of Belonging by Peter Block
  c. 2008
  240pgs.
  2 ★s
  Building a community, a school, an institution, a business by bits and pieces, creating a sense of pride and ownership in the project. Small groups can do a lot to improve an environment according to this author. I didn't really care for the book. My first impression was that the author almost espouses communism. Everyone equally shares, everyone has equal responsibility. I feel that concept tends to dummy down the total intelligence level of the group. I had to real this for a professional book club forced upon us at the school where I teach. That may have a bit to do with why I have a rather negative attitude. Well, that and "reflective questions" and required journaling in small groups...not my thing at all.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  Celebrity in Death by J. D. Robb
  c. 2012
  400 pgs
  3 ★s
  This was a bit different from the usual In Death series. There was much more dialogue and thought involved than action. Eve is still recovering from the trauma of Stella's death. Her friend and reporter, Nadine, has written a book about a previous investigation done by Lt. Eve Dallas and her partner Det. Peabody. This novel is being turned into a "vid." Vid director Roundtree and his wife invited the cast and the real police who were portrayed by the actors to a wrap up party. Eve and her husband Roarke attend. The pleasant evening is spoiled by a rude combative actress who does her best to alienate just about everyone at the party. And then... a death/murder takes place. Eve and Peabody, et al. start an investigation on the spot. It is especially hard on the police as the dead looks just like one of their own officers!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  27. City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
  Mortal Instruments trilogy #3
  c. 2009
  541 pgs.
  3 ★s
  This is the #3 book of the Mortal Instruments trilogy by Clare. I am glad that I am done. I shall not be reading the series which has sprung from this trilogy. Clare goes to Idris in search of a cure for her mother's coma. The titilation of the forbidden love of Clare and her "brother," gave me a curdled feeling in my stomach. Incestual situations, homosexuality, unfaithfulness, demons, love triangles, hate, murder; it is all in this book. The story would have been fine with this toned down about 1000 degrees. My students seem to love these books, while I am mildly put off by them. I enjoy a good Urban Fantasy, but this isn't one. I was disappointed, as it could have been so much better.
  
  28. Art and Max by David Wiesner
  c. 2010
  40 pgs.
  4 ★s
  Amazing illustrations and an adorable storyline. Max, a beginning lizard artist tries to learn to paint from and experienced lizardnamed Arthur, and mayhem ensues! The colors are bright and the drawings are quite wonderful! Great for an elementary art class. This book is nominated for the 2013 Monarch Award for K-3 books in Illinois.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ola =]

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Wings series by Aprilynne Pike

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq .

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Oh I don't really know! Books come, books go.... Some stay around!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

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- Raspberrymocha55
  
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  Ain't that the truth! I've got a few of those darn CR books, that I manage to read for 10 min at a time, and don't think I'll ever finish before they fossilize next to my reading chair. Ghost Story may be the death of me. I keep trying to get into it, as I've heard rave reviews, but it is a snooze fest for me so far...
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Auntie Nanuuq .
  
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  I'm trying to read his newest "Mrs God"..... I really do not care about the academic life of college professors..... YAWN!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Angela L

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Hi. I'm reading Towers of Midnight by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

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Finished When The Wind Blows 4 ★'s. Now I'm reading The Lake House both by James Patterson.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Leah K (edited)

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Planned Reads for March (bound to change as always – I know some of these books have been on my list forever but I swear I keep intending to read them)
Strike = completed. Italicized = currently reading.
Lucky Man by Michael J. Fox (continued from Feb.) (★ ★ ★ ★)
Salt: A World History by Mark Kurlansky
Boom!: Voices of the Sixties Personal Reflections on the '60s and Today by Tom Brokaw
The Restorer by Amanda Stevens (★ ★ ★ ½ )
Anton Woode: The Boy Murderer by Dick Kreck (★ ★ ½ )
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne (★ ★ ★)
The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets by Eva Rice (★ ★ ★ ★ ½ + heart)
J.D. Salinger: A Life by Kenneth Slawenski
Fire and Rain: The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, James Taylor, CSNY and the Bittersweet Story of 1970 by David Browne
Until Tuesday: A Wounded Warrior and the Dog Who Saved Him by by Luis Carlos Montalván
Stories I Only Tell My Friends by Rob Lowe

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 8 replies
- Leah K
  
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  Lucky Man by Michael J. Fox
  ★ ★ ★ ★
  Michael J. Fox would barely be 30 years old when he would be diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, a rare early onset when most people don't show symptoms until in their late fifties or older. How he dealt with it was no walk in the park. But in the end he would learn that his disease was not a curse but just a walk down another path, a better one for him.
  I really enjoyed this book. Fox delves into his childhood and his connection with his family. How he was diagnosed with P.D. And his struggle to deal with it and finally his public “coming-out” of his disease. I loved how honest he was. It may have taken him years to tell the public of his disease (this book would be published less than 4 years after he publicly announced his disease) but he comes out truthful and honest from beginning to end. Definitely a worthwhile read.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
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  That was a good read!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Linda
  
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  Good book!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Leah K
  
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  The Restorer by Amanda Stevens
  ★ ★ ★ ½
  This book was listed as a paranormal romance but I found this more to be a paranormal mystery. Of course romance was present but not to the extent one would think, and I was ok with that since I'm not a huge romance fan.
  I really did enjoy this book. I loved the main character, she reminded me of Sookie Stackhouse without quite as much whining. And the storyline was quite intriguing and kept my attention from the beginning to the end. On the downside, I did figure out the mystery fairly quickly but that didn't make the story any less fun. I am interested in the ghostly world (I was part of a paranormal research group for quite awhile) and the histories of cemeteries have always fascinated me so this was right up my lane. Given my current real-life stress, it was nice to read a fun, simple read. I look forward to the rest of her series as it is released.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Leah K
  
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  Anton Woode: The Boy Murderer by Dick Kreck
  ★ ★ ½
  In 1893, a young boy of 10 years old would murder a man for his watch. In a time before a juvenile system existed in the United States, Colorado handled the situation as they saw fit – he was found guilty and sent into the prison system where he would spend the next 12 years of his life.
  This book had great potential. From checking out his sources, it seems that the author (an amateur historian) did his research. However, even with that research, I felt that this was a poorly executed book. The writing was not well thought out and skimmed over in many places. Most of the book is just long quotes from sources such as newspapers and memoirs. The story of Anton Woode falls short and as do the story of other major people. He delves shortly into the change of the juvenile system later on and his feelings on where it's heading now. The subject matter is interesting enough, but the author just makes this book boring and flat.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Angel
  
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  Read Until Tuesday...move it up on your list! Loved it...and met Luis and Tuesday at a book signing.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Leah K
  
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  The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
  ★ ★ ★
  I really wanted to like this book more than I did. And while it wasn't bad, I felt that it could have been so much more. Any book dealing with the Holocaust is gut wrenching, but even though I read the sadness in this book, I honestly didn't feel it. I felt that the characters were very flat, giving me little connection to them. I think the coincidences were too convenient and I had difficulty believing in many of the situations. Perhaps with a little bit more detail and realism I would have enjoyed this book more. I do realize that this book is listed as a young adult book and perhaps that's why it is so simplistic, but it just didn't stick with me. The book definitely had potential. But I give any author credit who has the guts to write about such a tragic piece of history – it's a subject that even 70 years later is not easy to touch on.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Leah K
  
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  The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets by Eva Rice
  ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ + heart
  Synopsis off of Amazon: Set in 1950s London, The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets centers around Penelope, the wide- eyed daughter of a legendary beauty, Talitha, who lost her husband to the war. Penelope, with her mother and brother, struggles to maintain their vast and crumbling ancestral home—while postwar London spins toward the next decade’s cultural revolution.
  Penelope wants nothing more than to fall in love, and when her new best friend, Charlotte, a free spirit in the young society set, drags Penelope into London with all of its grand parties, she sets in motion great change for them all. Charlotte’s mysterious and attractive brother Harry uses Penelope to make his American ex-girlfriend jealous, with unforeseen consequences, and a dashing, wealthy American movie producer arrives with what might be the key to Penelope’s— and her family’s—future happiness.
  I checked this book out from the library not knowing what it was about, going off a whim. And I am so glad I did. I absolutely loved this debut novel by Eva Rice. The characters, every last one of them, was so vibrant and I enjoyed reading about all of them. The novel is well written and even though the story wasn't exactly fast-paced, I couldn't wait to see what would happen to the main character, Penolope and her friends. I just wanted to drop in and be part of this unparalleled group. It doesn't help that I love all things British. I also liked the many references to pop culture of the mid-50s'. I wish I could better describe this book, but alas all I can say is I found it unique and worth the read. I relished all 352 pages. (I often find it hard to write a review on a book I enjoy so much, feeling I can never fully do it justice).
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Hope H

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Reading Guns and Roses: a Murder She Writes anthology.
The ten romantic suspense writers who blog on the Murder She Writes website gave themselves a challenge. They each wrote a short story. Somewhere in the story a gun had to be mentioned, as did a rose. So far, fairly good! Two of my favorite characters - Julie Collins and Tony Martinez - have one story that takes place a year after Snowblind. I've never read a few of the authors in the anthology (other than their blog), but might have to start a few more series!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Hope H (edited)
  
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  Finally finished this one! Some of the stories were delicious - I'm going to have to read a few of the authors' backlists. A few were OK, but overall, an enjoyable read.
  Not sure what's up next - probably something very fluffy.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Angel

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Finished The Descendants And Double Minds by Terri BLackstock..
Will raid my closer for my next read...perhaps Jodi Picoults new book, The Lone Wolf.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
LibraryCin (edited)

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I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed right now, but here's what I'm thinking so far (there may be more added):
From the library/leftover from Feb (stuff I had on hold, intended for Feb, but only came to me in March):
~~Life on the Outside~~ / Jennifer Gonnerman
~~We Wish to Inform you that Tomorrow We Will be Killed with our Families~~ / Philip Gourevitch
Planned in print:
~~Three Cups of Tea~~ / Greg Mortensen
~~The Woman in Black~~ / Susan Hill
~~Voices from Chernobyl~~ / Svetlana Aleksievich
Audio:
~~Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do~~ / Tim Vanderbilt
If I get to it:
Garden Spells / Sarah Addison Allen
Hopefully:
~~Pigs in Heaven~~ / Barbara Kingsolver. 3.5 stars
~~Chapter and Hearse~~ / Lorna Barrett. 3.75 stars
Mennonite in a Little Black Dress / Rhoda Janzen

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 32 replies
- Hope H
  
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  I love Barbara Kingsolver! And some of your other titles look very interesting . . . I may have to add them to my TBR!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Some of these had subtitles (that tell you a little more about the book) that I just didn't add in here. I will, of course, post reviews (complete with subtitles! :-) ) for everything I manage to finish.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin (edited)
  
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  I'd also like to fit in one or both of these this month:
  ~~Deathless~~ / Catherynne M. Valente. 3.25 stars
  Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk / David Sedaris
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin (edited)
  
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  Oh, shoot! I just realized there is another library book (ebook) that I put on hold in Feb that I'm still waiting for, so it's likely to come this month, too:
  ~~Peeps~~ / Scott Westerfeld
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin (edited)
  
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  And, I didn't mention the book I was currently reading (until a few hours ago, anyway!). Review coming shortly, but for now, the title:
  ~~My Freshman Year~~ / Rebekah Nathan
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  My Freshman Year: What a Professor Learned by Becoming a Student / Rebekah Nathan
  3.5 stars
  Rebekah Nathan (a pseudonym) was a 50-something year old anthropology professor who decided to do a one-academic-year (2002-2003) study of student life, as a student. She applied to the university she teaches at (what she calls AnyU, for anonymity), and even lived in the dorm, anonymously as a student, to study the student culture. She also did some additional research, as well as interviews to add to her observational info.
  I thought this was interesting. I do work at a very small university college (not as a professor, but in the library), so there was some interest there. I also have an undergraduate degree in anthropology. I also kept thinking back to my own experiences as an undergrad (though that was about 10 years earlier). There were some ethical issues with her being a prof and doing a study anonymously that she does discuss in the afterward. She did find some things about student life that wasn't so surprising and some things that were to me (the stats on the number of students who cheat! Whoa!). I found particularly interesting the interviews she did with international students and how they saw American student culture. For anyone interested in learning about student life, this is quite interesting (I think I need a new word...).
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time / Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
  3.5 stars
  Greg Mortenson was climbing K2 when he got lost on his way down and came across a small village in Pakistan. He decided he wanted to help the children there - the girls in partcular - by building them a school, as they'd had to learn outside. It took him a number of years and back and forth between the U.S. and Pakistan to get that first school built. Once he got going, he wanted to help more and more girls and villages in Pakistan - to build more schools to educate the children.
  I wonder if I would have enjoyed the book more without the taint around it. Not knowing how much of the book was true was at the back of my mind the entire time I was reading. It was still a good book, but I do wonder if I would have enjoyed it more had I read it earlier on, before the question mark around the book appeared. I am planning to follow this up with Three Cups of Deceit, as well.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Bev (edited)
  
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  I thought Garden Spells, her first, was her best so far.
  A good one to slip in when your working with something heavy, Cindy
  ...light weight...fun....magic realism.....
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Thanks, Bev!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  The Woman in Black / Susan Hill
  3.5 stars
  Arthur is a lawyer from London who is sent to a small town where an older woman, Alice, has died. She has no family, so Arthur is sent to settle her estate. At the funeral, he sees a woman in the distance, a mysterious woman in black. Who is she and how is she connected to Alice? As Arthur spends more time at Alice's deserted house and grounds, creepy things start happening.
  It took a while for the book to get going for me, but once Arthur got out to Alice's house and weird things started happening, it definitely picked up for me. I would have liked to have been able to read it at home with no distractions and I bet I would have felt the atmosphere of it, even more, as there was definitely an eerie atmosphere to it (unfortunately, I read most of the creepy part of the story on public transit and in a crowded lunchroom). Overall, though, I liked it. It's a fast read and I would also like to see the movie.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Peeps / Scott Westerfeld
  3.25 stars
  This is a different look at vampires. Vampires are called peeps (short for parasite-positives), as they are infected by a parasite, which is what turns them into a peep. It is usually transmitted sexually. Cal was 19 when a girl he met at a bar infected him. However, he has some kind of immunity, so he isn't crazy like most peeps, which means he is helping the Night Council hunt and get rid of them. He starts by hunting for the girl who infected him, Morgan. While looking for Morgan, he meets Lace, who tries to help him find her.
  It was o.k. I didn't like this one as much as his Uglies series. Definitely a different take on vampires. I did find the extra info about various parasites kind of interesting, and I appreciated the afterword, which explained that all the parasites he talked about in the book are real. I did like the interaction between Lace and Cal. But, the book just wasn't that exciting for me. I didn't realize until after I'd started reading it that there is a sequel. I'm not sure if I'll read it or not.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Bobette
  
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  I highly recommend seeing the theater version of The Woman in Black if you are ever in London. The movie is good, but I honestly don't believe it holds a candel to the play. It has been running in London since 1989 so it is a staple there. I've seen it many times outside of London as well, which have been disapointments.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
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  Marguerite M removed this reply 1 year ago.
- Marguerite M
  
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  I'm very excited about seeing Woman in Black. I hope I get to read the book before I see the movie.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Oh, cool! I didn't even realize it was a play first! Good to know! If I'm in London, I'll keep it in mind... or if it "travels" and comes here... :-)
  Marguerite, the book is really quick. It's only 160 pages, so you should be able to read it fast once you get your hands on it.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Life on the Outside: the Prison Odyssey of Elaine Bartlett / Jennifer Gonnerman
  4 stars
  Elaine Bartlett had never been in trouble with the law, but at 26-years old, she agreed to run some cocaine out of New York City to Albany, so she would have some extra money to pay for a Thanksgiving meal for her large family. It was 1984 - 10 years after the Rockefeller drug laws had been enacted. She and her boyfriend, Nate, who only came to keep Elaine company, were arrested and sentenced under the Rockefeller laws (they had actually been set up by an informant). Elaine was sentenced to 20 years to life, leaving her mother to raise her four young children. After 16 years, she was granted clemency and released back into a world where her family was falling apart. Some were in jail, some had died by now. Elaine wanted to do everything she could to help her family and make things right.
  This was very good. It's a world I can't even imagine - a world of poverty and drugs. Not only does the book take you through Elaine's 16 years in prison, it follows her after she is released, trying to help her own family - her sisters and children, some of whom have been in jail, some who are trying to do better, some who are just lazy and don't want to do anything. Their apartment was overcrowded, but no one was working, until Elaine finally found a job, and even that was so low-paying, she couldn't figure out how to get her own place, for her and her kids, which she so desperately wanted. Elaine started public speaking - making speeches about what happened with her and became an activist against the Rockefeller drug laws. She's maybe not the nicest person and doesn't always make the best choices, but she sure was determined to make a better life.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Deathless / Catherynne M. Valente
  3.25 stars
  This is a retelling of a Russian fairy tale. Marya Morevna, as a little girl, watches three birds fall from the sky, then turn into men, who marry her older sisters. She hopes that a bird will come for her one day. When that bird does come, she doesn't see him - he was actually an owl. Koschei takes Marya away and into a whole other world, a world where he is "deathless", the Tsar of Life. Marya gets used to this world and builds a life with Koschei, but someone comes along to change everything.
  I should start by saying that I'm not a big fantasy fan, but I do like fairy tales. This being a Russian fairy tale, I was not familiar with it. This one started out promising for me; the beginning was more urban fantasy-like, which I can enjoy, but once Koschei took Marya away, the world they lived in didn't appeal to me at all. After the "someone" came along, I enjoyed the story a bit more again, but it really varied throughout. Some parts were more interesting to me than others, and close to the end got a little confusing for me. The very end was o.k., but overall, the book just varied. I think people who enjoy fantasy would likely enjoy this much more than I did.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  An audio came in for me (had it on hold) today. It's short, and I was hoping to get to it before my book club meeting in just over a week, so I will set aside Traffic and Garden Spells for it and start it tomorrow:
  ~~Three Cups of Deceit~~ / Jon Krakauer
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Chapter and Hearse / Lorna Barrett
  3.75 stars
  When one of the stores in Stoneham is blown up, the owner doesn't make it out alive. The head of the Chamber of Commerce was also there at the time, but got out with only injuries. Tricia Miles, who owns a mystery bookstore across the street, has a tendency to "help" solve crimes in the area. Meanwhile, Tricia's sister is in and out of town, as she is promoting a cookbook she has written, so Tricia is helping out with her sister's businesses, as well.
  I quite enjoyed this 4th book in the Booktown Mystery series. I still love Tricia's cat, Miss Marple. Something else I like about this one - Tricia had a life. She didn't focus solely on solving the mystery - she was super-busy and had lots of day-to-day stuff to do, as well. On the other hand, something that bugged me - why doesn't she just go the police when she finds something out!? I can understand why in the first book or two, but with a different police officer - one she actually gets along with - looking into this one, I just don't understand! Overall, though, I enjoyed it.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Three Cups of Deceit: How Greg Mortenson, Humanitarian Hero, Lost His Way / Jon Krakauer
  4 stars
  Jon Krakauer was a supporter of Greg Mortenson and his humanitarian effort to build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan (as chronicled in Mortensons books Three Cups of Tea and Stones Into Schools). At some point, though, Krakauer started looking a little further into things, to discover that Mortenson was outright lying (in his books, as well as numerous public speaking engagements) about a lot of what he'd done. Three Cups of Deceit details what Krakauer says actually happened.
  Wow! Some of Krakauer's information has come from former board members of the CAI (Central Asia Institute, the foundation formed to manage everything) and from people who were involved in the events that supposedly happened. He seems to have come up with some financial information, as well (Mortenson rarely accounted for the money he spent). There's so much spinning around in my head about this. Krakauer also apparently gave Mortenson a chance to talk to him and defend himself before this was published, but to no avail. I'm just floored. I think this is something that people who have read Three Cups of Tea should follow up with.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do (and What it Says About Us) / Tom Vanderbilt
  3.5 stars
  This book looks at traffic theory and science. Although I don't have a car, I found it quite interesting. He did talk a little bit about pedestrians and cyclists as part of traffic, as well. He mentions a lot of very interesting studies and statistics. It seems there are some things about traffic, especially in regards to safety and fatalities that are quite opposite of what one would think. Very interesting.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed With Our Families: Stories from Rwanda / Philip Gourevitch
  3.25 stars
  This is a history of Rwanda leading up to, focusing on, and continuing beyond the genocide in 1994.
  This wasn't quite what I expected. I was expecting stories from the survivors of the genocide, and there was some of that, but there was also a lot of history and politics, as well. So, for me, some parts were more interesting than others. Overall, it was o.k.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Marie T
  
  New Title
  
  Hey, LibraryCin, you've beaten even the 10-star thing-y. I notice you've rated 3.75 and 3.25 on a couple of books!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Yeah. I do that because I compare to other books. Well, I liked that more than that, but not as much as the other one... so I end up with 1/4 and 3/4 stars, too. Sometimes it feels like too much, but when I just can't decide or do the comparison thing, that's what I end up with! I can't reflect it in the star "image" underneath the books, but I always put it into my reviews.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Heather F
  
  New Title
  
  I read this a few years ago and had no idea there was a taint or a deceipt book. I will look for that. I have to be honest and say that whenever I read this kind of autobiography I wonder about the veracity of events. I certainly felt that way at times when I read this one and I really really felt it when I read Jeannette Walls' Glass Castle.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  I guess I usually do take things at "face value" when I read an autobiography, but having read Three Cups of Tea AFTER hearing about all the controversy around it, I felt that I really should read Three Cups of Deceit to get a better idea of what was truthful in TCOT and what wasn't (assuming Krakauer got his info correct!).
  Heather, Three Cups of Deceit (in print) is only about 96 pages (according to shelfari; I listened to the audio), so you might find it interesting to pick up. It should be quick to read, anyway.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Heather F
  
  New Title
  
  I just ordered it from the library. Thanks for the suggestion. I'll admit that even when I was reading Mortensen's own book that he struck me as quite a flakey guy. A guy with a great vision, but not very organized or knowledgeable. So, mismanagement doesn't surprise me really. Makes me sad though.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  It is definitely unfortunate that it all seemed to go wrong.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Voices from Chernobyl: The Oral History of a Nuclear Disaster / Svetlana Alexievich
  3.75 stars
  On April 26, 1986, there was an explosion and fire at a nuclear reactor in Chernobyl, Ukraine. The oral stories in this book were collected ten years later, and published in Russian in 1997. They were translated and published in English in 2005. The stories come from people who were in towns/villages closeby, people who were later evacuated, people who moved into the area later, people who came in to clean up, and more.
  The most horrifying stories for me were the ones from the people who were close enough to see it. The opening story was from a woman whose husband was a firefighter who went in right away, and that was one of the most engrossing stories. As an animal-lover, I was also horrified at the story from a hunter: the pets were all left behind and they were radioactive, so they had hunters go in to shoot them. If you "like" disaster stories or are just interested in the aftermath of Chernobyl and want to hear about it from people who were there, you'll want to pick up this book.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Pigs in Heaven / Barbara Kingsolver
  3.5 stars
  Taylor adopted a little Native girl, 3-year old Turtle, after Turtle was "dumped" on her by a stranger saying to take care of her. When Turtle is 6, something happens to bring the two of them into the limelight, and they are noticed by Annawake, a Cherokee lawyer who insists the adoption is illegal and sets out to bring Turtle back to the Cherokee Nation and to her roots.
  It was a bit slow at times, but whenever Taylor and Annawake interacted, I was riveted. But, there wasn't enough of that for me. I thought the ending was a little too nice and neat for me, very unrealistic, I thought. I liked some of the characters, well, particularly one: Taylor's boyfriend, Jax, who was quirky, but very likeable. Overall, it was still good, but I think it could have been better, although I don't know how I would have wanted it to end, but it just wasn't realistic enough for me.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Heather F
  
  New Title
  
  Ended up reading Three Cups of Deceit on Kindle on a weekend bus trip with my son's school choir. Quick read. I still don't get the impression that Mortensen set out to deceive anyone. I think he's just really incompetent and quite likely a pathological liar. One of those people who has to pump themselves up with a "good story" and then once you've told it enough times you have to keep telling it. A lot of money sure has been squandered though. I feel bad for people who gave their money in good faith.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
  New Title
  
  Pathological liar - good thought. He definitely should not be head of a multi-million(?) dollar charity!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Karen R

New Title

the widower's tale by julia glass, read by mark bramhall.
percy darling is the widower of the title. ater twemty years of living alone he has been persuaded to to let the locally preschool take over his barn because they have nowhere to run it from.
robert is percy's oldest grandchild, he is at harvard hoping to follow in his mother's footsteps and become a doctor.
personally i didn't like this story mainly due to how it was written. percy should have been the main character and the story told completely from his point of view (as inferred by the title) but no, just as we are beginning to get to know percy then the author brings in robert and his back story, goes back to percy then on to celestino plus his back story, back to percy then onto ira and his back story. even these background stories are interwoven in their presents. one sentence can be in the present the next in the past. infuriating. halfway through the book i wondered if i really needed to know all this background information - for me in most cases the answer is no. i would have given up completely but my husband, who had listened to it before me, said it was good and it would all come together in the end. i finished it and thought is that it.
started this in feb. but finished it this morning.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Sanz (edited)

New Title

MARCH
Read:
✔ 10. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling ★★★★★ + ♥ (3 Mar. 12)
✔ 11. The Soldier’s Wife by Margaret Leroy ★★★ (7 Mar. 12)
✔ 12. A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin ★★★★★ + ♥ (13 Mar. 12)
✔ 13. Empress Orchid by Anchee Min ★★★★★ + ♥ (18 Mar. 12)
Currently Reading:
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji
NEXT UP:
The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli
Skeletons on the Zahara by Dean King

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- Sanz (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling
  ★★★★★ + ♥ (3 Mar. 12)
  (Book 4, Harry Potter Series)
  Harry’s fourth year at Hogwart’s is the most exciting time for him thus far. The Triwizard Tournament is being hosted at Hogwarts where champions from three different schools come together to compete in dangerous tasks. The Goblet of Fire is a magical object that names these champions, but unknown to all, it will reveal a fourth champion who is both underage and unprepared for such an event... Harry. Torn between a desire to become the Triwizard champion himself and to find out who put his name in the Goblet, Harry will find his year filled with excitement and tension alike.
  My favourite book of the series, especially since it introduces other magical schools into the series. The adventure and action is at an all-time best and many secrets are revealed that will eventually tie up in the 6th and 7th books in the series.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Alli formally awelker
  
  New Title
  
  I liked the Soliders Wife. It was a pretty fast read for me.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Sanz
  
  New Title
  
  THE SOLDIER’S WIFE by Margaret Leroy
  Rating: ★★★
  Margaret Leroy’s novel is set in the backdrop of the Occupation of Guernsey during the 1940s. A mother with two young girls and an old mother-in-law, Vivienne is fearful for the safety of her family and the uncertainty that shadows the future. Her husband is away fighting the way with the army and she is left behind trying hard to make ends meet. Things change for her once the Germans arrive on the island. She falls for one of the German officers and soon they have a relationship blossoming that Vivienne keeps secret from everyone including her daughter. As the war advances Vivienne begins to face the horrors of it and before long she will have to take risks and harbour secrets that could endanger her young children.
  This is a fast-paced read. It tended to be dreamy at times, and I seemed to like some of it but soon the story became too “easy”. Vivienne came across as very gullible; her daughter Blanche was much stronger in character. The book started out with the promise of romance, secret and forbidden but somewhere down the line the book lost focus. It shifted to the horrors of worker’s camps and that’s when the story seemed to get disillusioned.
  Despite its lack of focus, I liked the development of the relationship between the mother-daughter duo, Millie and Vivienne. For me that was one the better parts of the book.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Sanz
  
  New Title
  
  A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin
  Rating: ★★★★★ + ♥
  Victims of treachery, both King Robert and Lord Eddard are dead. The kingdom stands divided and there is chaos all around. Six factions will claim their right to the throne and through deceit and war, they will seek to upend the kingdom. Brothers become sworn enemies, while young boys lead armies to victory. No one is really a friend and all families stand divided.
  Much like the LOTR and WOT, this series requires some serious commitment on the part of the reader. You need to have ample time on your hands to sit through a book and you should be willing to remember the very many characters and the complex web of plots they are connected by. I absolutely loved this second book of the series. The story doesn’t get stale at any point. Every chapter brings with it a new twist and I was immersed in it deeply. Tyrion Lannister, the half-of-a-man is my favourite character. I couldn’t wait to read his parts to find out what new plans he had hatched.
  Looking forward to the next book.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Sanz
  
  New Title
  
  Empress Orchid by Anchee Min
  Rating: ★★★★★ + ♥
  Set in the last days of Imperial glory, in the Forbidden City of China, this is the story of Tzu Hsi, also known as Orchid. Orchid is one of the three thousand concubines of the Emperor. In her seventeenth year, she steps into the forbidden city and all the glory and richness of the Imperial life are hers. But her life is far from wonderful. She is disliked by the Grand Empress and she must vie for attention of the Emperor, so that he can give her a son.
  Sometimes at odds, sometimes partnering her, Nuharoo, the first wife of the Emperor, will become one of Orchid’s close aides. Over the years, Orchid will have to struggle to help her husband form strategies to fight the colonial powers, she will fight for the right of her son’s ascension to the throne and most of all, for her own survival. People will plot her downfall but each time Orchid will persevere and survive.
  Anchee Min has an interesting way of writing prose. Her manner is vividly descriptive and I often found myself in the Forbidden City. I don’t know much about the history of this time but I think Min has done a fair job in depicting the reality. There are parts in the book that I thought were a tad bit graphic but they may have been necessary in the context of the plot.
  Overall, a wonderful book. If you’re a fan of Historical Fiction, then you can’t go wrong with Anchee Min.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

Here's what I HOPE to get to this month
For F2F book clubs (I actually have five F2F meetings this month, but have already read two of the books)
The Lacuna - Barbara Kingsolver
The Circuit: Stories from the Life of a Migrant Child - Francisco Jimenez
Moon Tiger - Penelope Lively
For various Shelfari or Good Reads group challenges
Murder at the Vicarage - Agatha Christie
The Small Woman - Alan Burgess
Tea Time for the Traditionally Built - Alexander McCall Smith
Bloodroot - Amy Greene
The Cookbook Collector - Allegra Goodman
The Big Sleep - Raymond Chandler
Marjorie Morningstar - Herman Wouk (this one is a real stretch)
We'll see if I get to all of these and maybe some others ...

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- Bev (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  I've never heard of Moon Tiger...it sounds a bit sad!
  Consequences was probably my favorite Lively
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
  New Title
  
  I've never read Penelope Lively before, so I'm looking forward to this.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Julie L
  
  New Title
  
  I have read a couple of Penelope Lively books (not the one you are reading) but I have enjoyed them.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Jan W

New Title

THE SOUTHERN BELLES OF HONEYSUCKLE WAY by Linda Bruckheimer.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

New Title

Finished The Lake House by James Patterson 4 ★'s. Now I'm reading Quinn by Iris Johansen.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

Murder at the Vicarage – Agatha Christie
Audio book performed by James Saxon
3.5***
This charming cozy introduced Miss Jane Marple. When Colonel Protheroe is found in the vicar’s study with a bullet in his head there are plenty of suspects, though almost everyone has an airtight alibi, and no one heard the shot. Miss Marple’s role in the book is really rather small; she does volunteer a few key observations, and the final explanation.
Christie really knew how to craft a good mystery. The plot moves along briskly, there are sufficient red herrings to keep the reader guessing, and the final reveal makes perfect sense (even if it is a surprise).
James Saxon’s performance of the audio book is excellent. Christie’s works have large casts, and Saxon is up to the task of voicing the many characters in this book.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

The Small Woman - Alan Burgess
4****
What an extraordinary woman Gladys Aylward was. In 1930 she left England for China entirely on her own volition. She had quit school at age 14, having never passed a single examination (per her own recollection), and had worked as a parlourmaid. But she felt called by God to become a missionary in China, and even though no established organization would consider her application she was determined to fulfill God’s wish. She heard of a lone woman, Mrs Lawson, working in a remote area of China who hoped to be able to pass along her work to a younger woman. So Gladys saved the fare for a third-class passage on the Trans-Siberia Express, and set out for China trusting that God would show her the way.
This biography was first published in 1957, and the edition I read had an epilogue, added in 1969. The book had by then been made into the popular movie Inn of the Sixth Happiness, starring Ingrid Bergman. Gladys, herself, never saw the film and didn’t understand why anyone would be interested in her life. I’m just glad she agreed to tell her story.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Marguerite M

New Title

Gabby by Gabrielle Giffords and Mark Kelly
5 stars
What an inspiring story. On January 8, 2011 Gabrielle Giffords, a US Congress Woman from Arizona was shot while doing a community event. She survived and this is the story of that survival. It also delves into her life before as well as her husband Mark's life and what brought them together and how their upbringing made them able to face this most horrid situation. I walked the emotional gambit with this book. I laughed, cried, got mad, got inspired, frustrated, excited. It will bring you on the journey whether you want to go or not.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Cynthia

New Title

I am currently reading Oliver Twist, and it is a great story!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Marguerite M
  
  New Title
  
  I want to read that at some point.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Jan W

New Title

I couldn't get into THE SOUTHERN BELLES OF HONEYSUCKLE WAY so I started reading AN UPLIFTING MURDER by Elaine Viets.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

The Circuit: Stories From the Life of a Migrant Child – Francisco Jimenez
5*****
This slim volume packs an extraordinary emotional punch. The stories Jimenez relates are autobiographical, depicting the life he and his family led as migrant workers in 1940s California. Told from the perspective of the second son in a strong, loving family, the stories carry the reader through about eight years of working “the circuit.”
What I particularly like about the book is that while Jimenez doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties of this life, he doesn’t dwell on the negatives, either. Yes, we suffer with the family in their poverty, but we also read about the pleasure of exploring a new setting, of inventing games to play, of achieving goals.
The ending is a kick to the stomach and I sat stunned for a few moments in disbelief that the book had ended. I know there is a sequel and I will definitely read it.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- Hope H
  
  New Title
  
  BC - I think there are two sequels - Breaking Through in 2001 and Reaching Out in 2008.
  I haven't read any of these yet, but they are on my TBR list!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
  New Title
  
  Just picked up both of them from the library this afternoon!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Scarlett

New Title

I'm starting "Hunger Games" tonight.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 8 replies
- Laura M
  
  New Title
  
  I just finished the second book. Let me know what you think! Enjoy
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  Laura, I LOVED the first one, can't wait to read the 2nd one now!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Laura M
  
  New Title
  
  glad you liked it! the first are definitely the best books of the series. I would venture to say that #2 was better than the first. May the odds be ever in your favor!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Bobette
  
  New Title
  
  I liked the second book better than the first. For me it's all about the side characters and less about Katniss. I really want a book from the point of view of the others.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Angel
  
  New Title
  
  I am on book three! Going to see it with my daughter Thursday, well Friday, midnight!!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  Our tickets are already sold out here! I'll have to wait.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Angel
  
  New Title
  
  Just finished book three tonight. I will miss the characters :(
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  I know I will too when I've finished.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Marguerite M

New Title

Masterpieces of Mystery and Suspense Compiled by: Martin H. Greenberg
4/5 stars
A wonderful collection of murder mysteries and suspense stories told by some of the greats including: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, Ellery Queen, Ray Bradbury, Stephen King etc.
Each story was thrilling and fun.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Jenny Garland

New Title

Reading now The Witching Hour by Anne Rice(horror), Buried Bones and Splintered Bones by Carolyn Haines. (cute mystery series), hoping to finish a few more this month.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I enjoyed The Witching Hour but never read the others
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Auntie Nanuuq .
  
  New Title
  
  For the most part I like the Haines "Haint" series... but I Did NOT like the last one.... But I do Not Like "Dumbing Down" "Stupidifying" otherwise intelligent characters!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Marguerite M
  
  New Title
  
  I loved The Witching Hour. Anne Rice is one of my favorite authors.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

The Lacuna – Barbara Kingsolver
Audio book performed by the author.
4****
I had a difficult time with this novel. I did not like Kingsolver’s voice as narrator at the outset, which made my mind wander as I “listened.” Then a series of CD player malfunctions derailed me for several days. All that has nothing to do with the novel, except that it is possibly part of the reason I don’t give it that final 5th star, because, ultimately, I loved this book.
Kingsolver tells the story of William Harrison Shepherd, a young man caught in the gaps (the lacunae) between two countries, two parents, two cultures, two lives (public and private). The novel unfolds as a series of diary entries, letters, and newspaper clippings, spanning the period from 1929 to 1954. Shepherd is an astute observer, but he is not a man of action; he goes along for the ride, letting history unfold around him. When he shuns publicity after the release of his first novel, he finds himself the object of increasingly outlandish stories; and, eventually, accusations taken as truths will destroy him.
I love how Kingsolver’s luscious writing paints the landscape and time period. I could just about taste the sugary pan dulce; was nearly deafened by the howler monkeys, or the shouts of demonstrators and riot police; I relished in the colors of the tropics and felt subdued by the grey of a mountain winter. I did eventually grow to appreciate the author’s narration, though I really had a difficult time with her performance at the outset. I thought she lacked emotion and “life.” But she really shone, in my opinion, when she voiced Frida Kahlo and Violet Brown.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 3 replies
- Linda
  
  New Title
  
  I sampled this a while back and really liked what I read. Your review has pushed me over the edge, added to my TBR list :)
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Heather F
  
  New Title
  
  I am a huge Kingsolver fan, I think I've read everything she's written. But, I really struggled with this one too. In fact, I'm not sure I finished it.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- BookCat
  
  New Title
  
  Thank you for such a vivid description. My favorite book is The Poisonwood Bible by Kingsolver. I kept looking at The Lacuna but didn't want to be disappointed. Your review convinced me that I won't be. This book brings everything I love about her stories. :)
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

New Title

Finished Quinn 4 ★'s. Now I'm reading Bonnie both by Iris Johansen.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
jenny k

New Title

Reading a couple different books:
Switched (trylle bk 1) by Amanada Hocking
Die for me by Amy Plum
Private Games by James Patterson
I'd like to read:
Hunger Games
The Lucky One
Abe Lincoln:Vampire Hunter
Night Circus
There are a bunch of series books i've started that I'd like to get caught up on a couple as well

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Sunshine

New Title

I'm reading "The Rules of Attraction" by Bret Easton Ellis. I'm halfway through and it's really good, I'm having trouble putting it down!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Marguerite M

New Title

Of Love and Evil by Anne Rice
4/5 stars
The second book in the Song of the Seraphim continues the story of Toby O'Dare, who used to be a paid assassin and now works for an angel. He must go to Rome and help a young Jew who is living in a haunted house and whose patient is dying and people whisper it's because of the demon. Toby must try to save the young man and figure out what is going on in the house. All while dealing with his own personal demons.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Julie L (edited)

New Title

Started Count to Ten by Karen Rose and continuing to read Thunderstruck by Erik Larsen.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

New Title

Finished Bonnie by Iris Johansen 4 ★'s. Now I'm reading Kiss of a Demon King by Kresley Cole.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Laurie G (edited)

New Title

Now reading 'SUMMER'S LEASE' by John Moritmer. Liking it so far! About a woman renting a summer home in Tuscany.The rental comes with some strange requests and information.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Linda

New Title

The Last Juror
The Vow
I'm Dancing as Fast asI Can

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Angel
  
  New Title
  
  About to read The Vow as part of my book club!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
SouthWestZippy

New Title

The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
3 stars
I enjoyed the plot about the mystery of the little girl found alone on a ship in 1913 headed for Australia. The dockmaster and his wife took the girl in, gave her the name Nell and raised her as one of their own. Nell was told the truth on her 21st Birthday. Nell then set out to find out her true identity. Unfortunately she passes away before she can find out the whole truth so her Granddaughter takes up the search. The book jumps back and fourth to different time periods. I did have a hard time following what was going on because of the different time periods. I had to go back and reread several parts, this is the reason for the three stars. I loved the writing style and again loved the mystery plot.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- LibraryCin
  
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  Oh no! I'm sorry it was hard for you to follow. :-( This was one of my favourites from last year.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Auntie Nanuuq .
  
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  I do believe I liked this book.....
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- SouthWestZippy
  
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  I am going to hang on to my copy and read it again when I can give my full undivided attention. It is just so hard to read books that are set up with different time lines for a couple of reasons. First one, I keep my two year old grandson, if I am not on full alert he would redo my whole house. I keep having to put the book down to run after him. Second one,being dyslexic is challenging enough but keeping the time lines and names along with it does tire me out so I have to put the book down a lot and regroup. This makes it hard to get back into the story sometimes.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  Oh, that makes sense. I don't remember having too hard a time keeping track, but I can see why it would have been trickier for you.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Laurie G
  
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  I did love this book! But it did take a bit to get used to the time and place changes!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq .

New Title

Socktopus Alice Yu
★ ★ ★ ★
What a wonderful book on knitting socks. All have complete directions, patterns & color photos of each pair of 15 different socks.
There is a section on different yarns as well.
I did not know that socks are knit in pieces.... This book </i>Almost</i> makes me want to learn to knit, just for the beautiful socks!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq .

New Title

Mouse Paint
Three White mice on white paper discover three jars of paint: Red, Yellow, & Blue. Each mouse jumps into a paint jar and then into a puddle of another color paint. As they dance in the puddle of paint, they create an entirely different color!
This is a very good book to use when introducing children to primary & Secondary colors.
Lemons Are NOT Red
This book teaches colors with cut outs. The first is a yellow page w/ a cut out of a lemon on a red background: "Lemons are not red"... Turn the page and the cut out changes to the correct color of the item: "Lemons are yellow, Apples are red. Grass, Carrots, Eggplants, Moon, Night.....

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Julie L
  
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  Loved those Mouse books. Read those to my kids.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq .

New Title

Olivia
Olivia is a very precocious pig who wears everyone out (even herself), she dreams of being a ballerina, paints like Jackson Pollock, and doesn't like to go to sleep before being read to.
Delightful... I own 2 copies of this book.

The Old Woman and Her Pig, Margaret MacDonald
There are several versions of this book, but I particularly like this one for the bright colorful illustrations which better lend themselves to storytime.
A woman goes to market to buy a pig for her son.... On the way home she & the pig come to a bridge, but the pig refuses to cross. The old woman asks a dog and mouse to help move the pig. It is not until the cat comes along that gets them all across the bridge and headed for home.

Pigs Aplenty, Pigs Galore
A bright colorful rhyming book about pigs playing, eating, making a mess & cleaning up. This was a fun read for storytime.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  my daughter loves these books
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

Hotel du Lac – Anita Brookner
3***
Edith Hope is a romance writer, whose friends have sent her to the secluded Hotel du Lac to wait for some sort of scandal to die down. She is morose, bored and wants to be left alone, but she’s also lonely. The other guests are similarly hiding or waiting for something to happen, and so the days pass.
The book was published in 1984, but even then, I doubted that the great scandal from which Edith is hiding was viewed as all that bad. Back in the mid 1980s, I had a friend who did the same thing (though not quite so late in the game), and there were no lasting repercussions. Maybe it’s the difference between Americans and British.
I thought some of the portrayals of the other guests, seen through Edith’s eyes, were spot on, but the shortness of the work really didn’t leave room for further exploration, and on the whole I felt the book suffered because of that. I enjoyed it, but you don’t have to put it at the top of your reading list.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

New Title

The Bingo Palace, Louise Erdrich
★ ★ ★
A continuation of the Chippewa family saga that began with "Love Medicine": Lipsha Morrissey has been summoned home to the Rez by his grandmother, Lulu Lamartine... Upon his return he falls in love for the first time, but with the woman of another man, Lyman Lamartine, twho is not only a relative, but also he man he works for.
Lipsha goes to seek help from his great grandmother Fleur Pillager...as he goes deeper into the woods to Fleur's house, which stands on ancient sacred ground, Lipsha realizes that this is where Lyman plans on building the Bingo Palace. Lipsha must then decide if he should stand with Lyman or be true to his ancestral roots & traditions.
This book was more difficult for me to follow than were the later works. Later works are focused on what seems to me fewer characters....

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Sunshine

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Now reading "Wise Blood". It's wonderful so far.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Karen R

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all other nights by dara horn, read by william dufris (15.5 hours)
this story covers the years from jacob rappaport being 19 to 22.
he runs away from an an arranged marriage and joins the union army during the civil war. his comanding officers order him to kill his uncle who is plotting the assassination of abraham lincoln.
his next mission is to go to virginia and marry a family friends' daughter, eugenie, and pass information back confirming that she is a spy.
i didn't know very much about the american civil war and this book covered so much. the spy network,the treatment of slaves which jacob didn't like, living with horendous injuries and the enduring love of father for daughters and husband for wife.
a thought from jacob has stayed with me - thousands dead,thousands injured and for what? did any of it make a difference to the outcome? (words to that effect)
i really enjoyed this book with its strong characters. I give this book five stars william dufris did an excellent job of performing this book

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

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Finished Kiss of a Demon King by Kresley Cole 5 ★'s. Now I'm reading Deep Kiss of Winter by Kresley Cole and Gena Showalter.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Jan W

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I still haven't finished AN UPLIFTING MURDER by Elaine Viets but had to take a break in order to start reading for my book group. We will be discussing DEATH COMES FOR THE ARCHBISHOP by Willa Cather.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

Tea Time for the Traditionally Built – Alexander McCall Smith
4****
Mma Precious Ramotswe and Mma Grace Makutsi may not know anything about football – that is something men like – but they do know about shoes. In addition to a couple of new cases to handle, the beloved tiny white van is making a very bad noise, and Violet Septhotho is once again messing in Grace Makutsi’s business.
I love these gentle “mysteries” set in Botswana. Smith’s love of the country, its people and culture is evident in the way he talks about the landscape and the customs. The books are simply delightful.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Grace
  
  New Title
  
  I join you in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency love! I got my husband to start reading them a few years ago and we're anxiously awaiting the next in the series which I believe will be published in a few months.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Sharon F

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Finished Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden which I really enjoyed.
Next up is 11/22/63 by Stephen King. Was a big fan until I got turned off by Cell so based on word of mouth by others and the little bit I read this morning, I'm going to become a fan again!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- Scarlett
  
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  11/22/63 is very different from his other stuff Sharon. I really liked it.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Jan W
  
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  I liked King's book, too, and I'm not really a fan of most of his books.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Linda
  
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  Can't wait to read this one!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Sharon F
  
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  I'm so loving this book! Being that I graduated in 1965 and I can recall my feelings to this day of the events surrounding the assassination, the trip back in time is bringing back other long forgotten feelings. I love how he is filling the story with so many of the things that filled our day-to-day lives back then. I'm taking it slowly so as to appreciate every bit of it. It's even making me think of "IT" which i read over 25 years ago:)
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  That's what I loved about it too Sharon, when it was a more simpler time. It was my 12th birthday the day of the assassination so it's brought back a lot of memories for me.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Karen R

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living history by hillary rodham clinton, read by the author.
the majority of this book covers the eight years hillary rodham clinton was first lady. her campaign for medical care for the poor and women's rights. the whitewater and monica lewinsky episodes whch were seized upon by the opposition (and press) to bring the president down and slow down reforms going through. at home and abroard the clintons tried to make life better for the underdog.
my version of this book is abridged and i had listened to it before 9/11. i am not a lover of biographies but will keep this and the one by bill clinton. will any future presidant and first lady have to go through what they did. i hope not.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Linda (edited)

New Title

Say When by Elizabeth Berg. Read over the weekend.
Reading:
The River of Doubt: Theodore Rosevelt's Darkest Journey and
reading Lolita in Tehran

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 6 replies
- Bev (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  The first Berg I read was Dream When You're Feeling Blue
  Do you have a favorite Berg, Linda ?
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Linda (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  My favorite is Talk Before Sleep, love the friendship and camraderie of the women. I have Dream When You're Feeling Blue, on my shelf to be read.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Lisa L
  
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  Dream when you're feeling blue is my least favorite Berg book
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Linda
  
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  What is your favorite Lisa?
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Hope H
  
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  What is The River of Doubt about? I like reading about Theodore Roosevelt's personal life and that of his daughter Alice. I always felt sorry for her, although I'm sure she wouldn't have liked anyone feeling sorry for her.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Lisa L
  
  New Title
  
  Not sure what my favorite is. I like all of hers
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Bev (edited)

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The Turn of the Screw (1898)
Daisy Miller (1878)
2 Victorian novellas by Henry Miller

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Marguerite M

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Big Russ & Me by Tim Russert
4/5
Tim Russert talks about his father, growing up and the choices he made that led to his hosting Meet the Press. There were happy moments, sad moments, and moments that really made you think. A wonderful tale that only makes his loss seem even more sad.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

New Title

If You Take a Mouse to School
Mouse goes to school in a lunch box, but he wants a sandwich & a snack, and he wants to do math & spell words, and he wants to build a mouse house & furniture, and he wants to shoot baskets & skateboard, and then he'll want a snack.......

Maisy Goes to the Playground
This was a very popular books w/ the kidlets, because it has moveable parts: Maisy on a swing, eating a Popsicle, feeding ducks & riding her bike home.

Mouse Loves School
Mouse hides in a backpack and discovers the many wonders of school: Blocks, books, paints & new friends.

Miko: "Mom Wake Up and Play!"
Miko wakes up early and want his mom to play with him, but his Mom wants to sleep until the alarm goes off. So Miko keeps himself busy.... the funniest thing was the part where Miko is laying around on the floor and decides which of his fingers is best for picking his nose! I'm like "OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" and of course the Mommies thought that was funny!

What Color is Your Underwear
Horse, turtle, crocodile, spider, cow & sheep all show off their fancy underwear in this Lift-the-Flap picture book... That is all but Elephant.......

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Marguerite M

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Kill Alex Cross by James Patterson
4/5
This is the 18th book in the Alex Cross series. The President's children are kidnapped and there does not seem to be any clues to help. Also a terrorist group is trying to blow up Washington DC. Just another day at the office for Alex Cross. I couldn't put it down any more than I could the last 17. Patterson has been know to let the good guys die so you can never relax. I think my favorite character is Nana. She is ninety plus years old and has not intention of taking any foolishness from anyone. These are keep you on the edge of your seat, good vs evil, murder mysteries.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Julie L (edited)

New Title

Finally started reading The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins. Would have started it earlier but the copy I got had such small print, I had to order the only large type print of the book in the library system.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- Marguerite M
  
  New Title
  
  I really enjoyed that book, I hope you do as well.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Julie L
  
  New Title
  
  I am liking it so far.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

New Title

Victoria & Albert: a Family Life at Osborne House, HRH The Duchess of York (a,k,a, Fergie)
★ ★ ★
Well written in "proper" Royal English..... and it is taken from Victoria's (edited by her daughter) journals..... So in a manner it is exhausting....
It is interesting that while the family was at Osborne House, they did their best to get away from being "Royal". The children were responsible for learning to garden, cook, & other chores for which they were paid an allowance. Albert often looked after the children. They ate their meals together & spent quite a bit of time all together.
A very informative offering.
I throughly enjoyed the photos & illustrations, many of which were painted by Victoria herself.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 1 reply
- Julie L
  
  New Title
  
  How is this?
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Bev

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Sweet Judy Blue Eyes
My Life in Music
by Judy Collins

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Laura M

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I just finished the third Hunger Games book "Mockingjay" It was my least favorite of the three, but it had to end somehow. I'm glad the author didn't drag it on, I'm not sure what else they would do. I think the second book is my favorite.
My husband brought up a good point about these books. He doesn't get the craze of adults reading books for young adults. It started with Harry Potter and then the Twilight books and now the Hunger Games. There are plenty of wonderful books out there for adults that aren't getting read because people are reading these types of books. Anyone have any insight?

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 8 replies
- Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)
  
  New Title
  
  It's called a good story w/ compelling plot. Sometimes it's even good literature, and fascinating characters....
  I do not limit myself to reading level..... I like to be entertained....
  As a Librarian, I read many things not for "adults", because then I am able to provide Readers' Advisory for our other customers.
  Real Avid Readers, do not limit themselves....
  I would have missed so very many good books if I only read for my age group.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Leah K
  
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  I agree Auntie. If a story in compelling and the characters interesting, I don't see how the reading level makes any difference. I read whatever interests me, with little importance to it's level.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- LibraryCin
  
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  I agree, too. And there really are a lot of good YA books out there right now!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Auntie Nanuuq .
  
  New Title
  
  My manager & I were discussing this...
  He pointed out that the past 10-15 years have been considered the "Golden Age of Children's Literature/Publishing" as books are now actually being written for children's enjoyment not for what someone believes to be "Good LITERATURE" for children to read.
  I have noticed that with the Newbery Awards, the newer ones are much more pleasurable reading than many of the older ones.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  I read a lot of YA books because when I sub in the school libraries I like to be able to recommend or talk books with the kids. Other than "Hunger Games", I read "The Invention of Hugo Cabret" and really liked it. I will see the movie soon. Recently I read "Found" by Margaret Haddix. Good plot. I'm now listening to the 2nd one "Sent" . There are a number of good reads for kids that are good for adults too.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Laura M
  
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  Thanks for all the opinions guys! i enjoy them.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Angel
  
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  I read it so that I could have something to talk to my teenage daughter about!! LOL. We are going to see the movie tomorrow at midnight. I thoroughly enjoyed the books!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  My daughter and son in law are going to see it sometime this week (hopefully since it's Spring Break and we may not get tickets)!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

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Finally finished Deep Kiss Of Winter by Kresley Cole and Gena Showalter 5 ★'s. Now I'm going to read Pleasure Of A Dark Prince by Kresley Cole.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Karen R

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one day by david nicholls, read by anna bentinck.
one day covers a day in the lives of dexter mayhew and emma morley from leaving university in 1988 to 2007. in nearly all cases this day is 15th july.
dexter becomes a top t.v. presenter whilst emma finally decides to train to become an english/drama teacher. they are friends. whilst emma's life is portrayed as being dull and ordinary, dexter's is filled with sex, alcohol, drugs and the trappings of being a celebrity until it all falls flat and his co-presenter takes centre stage.
i listened to this book to the end (15 hrs plus) and didn't like it. i stuck with it hoping it would improve and have a really good ending. no. it went full circle back to the beginning. a waste of time and battery power.
anna bentinck did a good job with the voices of dexter and emma but it became confusing when she used the same voice and emphasis on words for sookie and jill.
i gave it 1 star.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

The Cookbook Collector – Allegra Goodman
Audio book performed by Ariadne Meyers
1*
I admit I was seduced by the cover of this book, just as one of the characters is seduced by the possibility of scoring a rare book find. I should have just said, “No.”
Goodman (a talented writer of short stories) is combining three, or four, plot lines to form this novel, and as a result, none of them is satisfactorily explored. The most interesting story line to me was that of the cookbook collector. But I was kept waiting for ages before this story appears, and then it’s dropped in favor of a different plotline. Comparisons with Jane Austen completely baffle me; Goodman’s dialogue is tortured, while Austen’s sparkles with wit.
Ariadne Meyers did an acceptable job of narrating though the male characters either growled or sounded like a stoned-out hippie.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

Snakewoman of Little Egypt – Robert Hellenga
3.5*
Sunny Cochrane has been in prison for 5 years for shooting (not killing) her husband. She claims it was self-defense. Professor Jackson Jones promised Sunny’s late uncle that he would care for her when she’s released. What happens next is the focus of this story.
This is a great premise for a novel, and I was completely hooked into it from the beginning, but I felt Hellenga kept a bit too much distance between the reader and his characters. I wanted to know more about the WHY of what they did, and I didn’t get any answer to that. Still there were twists in the plot line that I really didn’t expect. I would definitely read another book by Hellenga.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Sally S (edited)

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Reading Ethan Frome. Just finished Middlesex. I think that Homer and Langley will be next.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Scarlett

New Title

I'm reading "The Lincoln Lawyer" Michael Connelly.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 5 replies
- bluestocking7
  
  New Title
  
  Ah yes. This is a good series. I should be starting book 4 soon. I hope you enjoy it too.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
  New Title
  
  I've only read the first one but I really liked it. Definitely will read more.
  Have you read any of the Harry Bosch series, also by Connelly?
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  I've loved the Bosch series but am only on the 5th book. I decided to read this one because of the movie. I really loved this one too. Can't wait to read more!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- bluestocking7
  
  New Title
  
  I read Trunk Music in the Bosch series. It was good. I've been meaning to get to some more in that series.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Scarlett
  
  New Title
  
  That's my next one Bluestocking.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

New Title

Breaking Through – Francisco Jimenez
4.5****
This autobiographical novel is the sequel to The Circuit; it begins where the first book ended left off and focuses on Frankie’s junior high and high school years. It is a story about perseverance and determination, about the cruel realities of poverty, and about the opportunity afforded by a good education.
Jimenez doesn’t call his books memoirs, though they rely heavily on his own experiences. He obviously had to create dialogue that, while true to the essence of the story cannot possibly be accurate; and so he calls his works fiction. The novels are accessible for the middle-school student, but have sufficient depth to be enjoyed by adults.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 2 replies
- Hope H
  
  New Title
  
  I was surprised when his books arrived from the book jobber that they were classed as fiction. I had thought they were nonfiction. I put them in fiction, but it still bothers me. In nonfiction, I expect the dialogue to be "recreated." As long as it preserves the intent of what happened, I don't mind "created" dialogue.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
  New Title
  
  I believe the author, himself, calls them fiction.
  Ditto with Francisco Goldman's "novel" about his wife's death - Say Her Name. I had the opportunity to meet Goldman as actually asked him about listing the book as a memoir vs a novel. He cited just that reason - he could not be sure he was accurately recalling dialogue or even events (two people sharing an event will frequently remember it differently), so he decided to just call it a novel.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Hope H (edited)

New Title

I am in the middle of Still Missing by Chevy Stevens. Creepy - reminds me of Chelsea Cain's work. So far, excellent.
And I'm staying up WAY past my usual late bedtime to finish it.
Finished this a little after 2 this morning.
★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2
Annie O'Sullivan, a realtor, disappears from an open house she is hosting. She's been abducted. We know she survives - she's the one telling her story to her psychiatrist. She is also working with the local police force to identify her abductor and determine why he took her. Was it a crime of opportunity, or was it something even more sinister?
The only reason I didn't rate it a full 5 stars was because I thought the ending wrapped up a little too neatly. It should have been messier.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

show 6 replies
- BookwormErin
  
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  Still Missing is a fav for this year. Never saw the ending coming
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Lisa L
  
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  That's on my Kindle in my never ending TBR pile!
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Book Concierge
  
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  I really liked this book - creepy, yes. Disturbing, Yes. Completely hooked me and I could NOT stop reading. And Yes, definitely I was taken by surprise at the end.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Hope H
  
  New Title
  
  I had to stay up to finish it. I knew if I quit, all I would do is lie in bed and run possibilities through my head!
  I'm very tempted to get Stevens' next one - Never Knowing.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- BookwormErin
  
  New Title
  
  I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on Never Knowing if you do read it
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Hope H
  
  New Title
  
  Will do!
  I'm going to donate my copy of Still Missing to the public library. Maybe I can get them to spring for Never Knowing.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

New Title

Mrs God, Peter Straub
★ ★
I did not not like this book..... I did not understand the book or the point of it, no not at all.
I suppose it is a darkly spooky, lyrical, literary fantasy..... It is a ghost story, but I have not a clue what it is really all about.
Dust Jacket: "Esswood House. Home and estate of the Seneschal family, aristocratic patrons of the years. D.H. Lawrence, T.S. Eliot, Ford Maddox Ford, and henry James were privileged to call themselves guests and Esswood Fellows. Even minor poets such as Isobel Standish found Esswood's refined atmosphere ann inspiration for her work.........
When professor William Standish receives the rare honor of an Esswood Fellowship, and the chance to study Isobel's private manuscripts at close hand, he thrilled beyond his wildest ambitions. But upon arriving, something seems strange at Esswood House. he hears faint laughter in the halls, the pitter-pattering of small feet in the night; strange faces appear in the windows of the library, and of course, there are those giant doll houses in the basement......"
I had a very difficult time reading this book, it took me over 4 weeks to finish. It was even rather boring in an overly descriptive manner of style.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Alli formally awelker

New Title

FINALLY FINISHED A BOOK THIS MONTH!
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
4 stars
I'm sure that many of you have read this book so I'll keep the synopsis short. Diana Bishop is not your typical historian, she's a historian that is also a witch, a direct descendant to Bridget Bishop of Salem. She however, can not use her magic, or rather doesn't want to. That is until she's forced to, to protect her as well as the man she loves. Its meeting this man, rather creature, that her life does a complete 180 and she finally becomes the witch that she is meant to be.
I found that this book really kind of pissed me off in a way that it ended with no happy ending, well at least not yet. I am actually looking forward to the next installment in this series. I thought that some of it was cheesy, done before, and well predictable but overall I really found it enjoyable.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

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- LibraryCin
  
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  D'oh! It's a series? It's one I wanted to read, but... :-(
  
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- Alli formally awelker
  
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  I recommend it Cin. The next one doesn't come out for a couple of months. :D
  
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- LibraryCin
  
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  Thanks, Alli! I'll probably read it anyway.
  
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- Alli formally awelker
  
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  a correction on the series bit, its only a trilogy...if thats any better :D
  
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- LibraryCin
  
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  Thank you - that does help. :-)
  
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- bluestocking7
  
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  Alli, may I extend my congrats to you on finishing the book. LOL] I've been there.
  
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- BookwormErin
  
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  Love this book! Favorite last year
  
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Auntie Nanuuq .

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Pop-Up Bugs: Creepy Crawlers Face to Face
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ♥
This book was a huge sensation in storytime...the bugs are HUGE and pop-out at you. The poems were nice too, but the kids were making so much noise: ooohs & aaaahs, squeals & giiggles and yelling out the names of the bugs, that we really couldn't hear the story!

The Very Lazy Ladybug: A Pop-up Story
★ ★ ★ ★
Ladybug is looking for a new place to sleep, but is too lazy to fly and look for one. She hops a ride on kangaroo, tiger, crocodile, monkey, and others, but none of those animals are good places to sleep......

Creepy Crawly Colors: A Pop-up Book
★ ★ ★
A very basic book that is good to use for teaching colors, but has small moveable parts, not very engaging for a large group.

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Ursula

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Finished Pleasure Of A Dark Prince 5 ★'s. Now I'm reading Demon From The Dark both from Kresley Cole.

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Grace F. (edited)

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Yellow Star by Jennifer Roy (pretty good so far)
It's a poetry book about the holocaust

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Laurie G

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THE JOURNEY by Jospehine Cox. I love her stories.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula (edited)

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Finished Demon From The Dark 5 ★'s. Now I'm going to read Dreams Of A Dark Warrior. Both by Kresley Cole

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Linda

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Morality for Beautiful Girls and Refuge
Finished Rowing to Lattitude: Journey to the Artic

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Karen R

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promises,promises by erica james, read by charlotte strevens.
this starts with maggie a cleaner working for ethan and his wife fransene and their neighbours as well as others not mentioned. maggie is unhappy in her marriage and has made a new year resolution to be stronger and fight back.
ethan has also made a resolution - not to have any more one night stands or enter into another relationship of a sexual nature.
enter ella, a decorator - not the usual type - she is an artist who paints pictures on walls or puts gold leaf on mouldings.
the story revolvees around the lives of these people.
an enjoyable book but not as good as hidden talents or gardens of delight. it had good characterisation, as in the other books, but you knew where the plot lines were heading almost from the beginning it was only a case of listening to find out how it would all work out.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Brenda Sorrels

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I'm still reading Lincoln by Gore Vidal....it's taking me longer to get through it than I would like...but it's good. There's a lot of history in the backdrop but wonderful jewels too like Lincoln's relationship with Mary Todd who was already a lilttle crazy...there's a great relationship with is secretary, John Hay...and people wandering in and out of the White House off the street. How Lincoln dealt with the war and the death of his small son, Willie....I've read several books on Lincoln and the Civil War and this is definitely enaging. I dd get side-lined though when I picked up a copy of The Wife by Meg Wolitzer. I had read it years ago and reread it and enjoyed it even more....It's about a wife who is really the brains and talent behind her successful writer husband but gets no credit because she's only "The Wife." I've read other Meg Wolitzer books, but this is my favorite by far.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Grace

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I'm half way through ARCADIA, by Lauren Groff. I was a fan of her debut novel, The Monsters of Templeton, and I'm happy to say that Arcadia is wonderful so far.

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Book Concierge

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The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag – Alan Bradley
Book on CD performed by Jayne Entwistle
3.5***
I just love 11-year-old Flavia de Luce, who relies on her keen powers of observation (and a more than a little knowledge of chemistry) to solve yet another murder (or two). Among the happenings and characters she encounters in this outing: a child who died by accidental hanging some years back; the “witch” who lives in the woods; the boy’s mother, deranged by grief; a master puppeteer; a former German POW; and an electrocution!
More than enough to keep any detective busy, but Flavia is certainly up to the task.
Entwistle does a wonderful job performing the book. She is perfect for Flavia, and does a great job voicing the many other characters. Her pacing is brisk, as befits a mystery/thriller.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

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- Julie L
  
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  I enjoy this series and the main character.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Scarlett

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I'm now reading "Catching Fire" Suzanne Collins

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Ursula

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I'm reading Slow Burn by Julie Garwood.

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Ursula

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Finished Slow Burn 4 ★'s. Now I'm reading Shadow Dance both by Julie Garwood.

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- bluestocking7
  
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  These are part of a series right? I loved Mercy by her.
  
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- Ursula
  
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  Yes they are a part of a series. I'm loving them!
  
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Hope H

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Finished an erotic western romance Wrangled and Tangled by Lorelei James.
Now starting Death of a Kingfisher, a Hamish McBeth mystery by M.C. Beaton. I haven't given up on this series yet - I've about had it with her Agatha Raisin series.

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Book Concierge

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Bloodroot – Amy Greene
2**
Greene explores several generations of a family living in rural Appalachia. I wanted to like this book. It has been on my TBR list for a while and I typically like books that explore family dynamics and the individual's need to explore the world beyond their childhood framework. But this book just didn't do it for me.
I thought the storyline was too choppy and confusing. The multiple narrators and shifting time frames were at first intriguing but eventually resulted in my losing focus. I kept waiting for the “story” to really take off, and it never did – at least not for me. I was never riveted by the novel and found it too easy to put it aside to do other things.

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Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

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Me and My Dragon
A little boy explains why a dragon would make a perfect pet & the things they would do together

Oscar & the Very Hungry Dragon
A bit long & wordy for a storytime group but one on one this would be a nice story to read

The Trouble With Dragons
What a surprising story, it is really about how humans (dragons) are messing up the environment by over population, cutting down forests & global warming.

Hush Little Dragon
Sung to "Mockingbird" the the "Mean Queen" is Fine cuisine, the "Magician" is good nutrition.... good rhyme & good fun!

If I Had a Dragon
Morton's little brother is no fun at all, but If Morton had a Dragon........

There Is No Such Thing As a Dragon ♥
One morning Billy wakes up to find a dragon in his room, but Billy's mother says (quite firmly) "There Is No Such Thing As a Dragon".... So the dragon grows bigger..... The Dragon sits ON the breakfast table and eats all of Billy's pancakes, but Billy's mother still insists "There is No Such Thing As a Dragon!" And the Dragon gets bigger still..... Soon the Dragon is carrying the house on his back w/ Billy and his mother stuck upstairs.......

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

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- Bobette
  
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  Have you read the Enchated Forest Series - Dealing With Dragons, Searching for Dragons, Calling on Dragons, and Talking to Dragons? They are for kids but they are great. I absolutely love the main character and think she is a fantastic role model.
  
  posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
- Auntie Nanuuq .
  
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  Not yet.
  have you read the Paperbag Princess?
  
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- Heather F
  
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  Are there people who have never read The Paperbag Princess???? Not in Canada, I don't think. :)
  
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- LibraryCin
  
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  *ducks in shame
  Heather, I've never read it (at least that I remember), and I'm in Canada.
  
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- Bobette
  
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  I have not. I will have to look into it.
  
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- Heather F
  
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  Cin, I am simply shocked! ;) You must go right now and read the complete works of Robert Munsch or you must surrender your citizenship.
  
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- LibraryCin
  
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  LOL!!!! Maybe I'll try for the Paperbag Princess, anyway. :-)
  
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Marguerite M

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The Eye of the Storm by Private Robert Knox Sneden
3/5 stars
Our local library is having a discussion on this book so I wanted to read it before then. It's a diary of a Union Soldier who was a map maker in the Civil War and ends up a prisoner of war. How he survived is a miracle considering how they were treated. It was very graphic and I just can't imagine treating other humans that way. I know all is fair in war and the whole idea was to keep the prisoners so beaten down they couldn't escape, but when you have hundreds dieing a day, I think it goes too far. I'm sure the confederate soldiers were treated just as poorly. It was a sign of the times as they say. It gives me a much better appreciation for the Geneva Convention. If you are interested in Civil War stories I would recommend this one. Sometimes dieing in battle is not the worse thing that can happen to you.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Heather F

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A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick
4 stars
I received this book in the last book swap and other commitments kept me from it until now.
This book ended up really surprising me. At first I almost abandoned it but I'm glad I stuck with it. In the beginning, the sex obsession of the main character was really off-putting. He was not likeable at all. Then when the female character was introduced she was not at all likeable either. I didn't think I would care what happened to either one of them. But I was wrong.
This book is really compelling, incredibly well written and once you get into the story you can't put it down until you know what happens next. There are twists and turns, some are predictable, but others are stunning! I think I was a bit disappointed with the ending, it felt unresolved. But I can honestly recommend this one.

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- Scarlett
  
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  I really enjoyed this one also Heather. I agree, well written.
  
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- Julie L
  
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  Compelling story but very dark.
  
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Jan W

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THE PEACH KEEPER by Sarah Addison Allen

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Bev

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Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children (Ranson Riggs)

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SouthWestZippy

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Making Rounds with Oscar:The Extraordinary Gift of an Ordinary Cat by David Dosa
5 stars plus a heart
Quick read about a cat who teaches a Dr to Listen and observe his Patients and their family. Oscar lives in a Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rhode Island. Oscar has an odd behavior, he seeks out the dying and stays with them until they have passed away. The book is Oscar stories from families, staff and the Doctor.

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Scarlett

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I'll be starting "Half Broke Horses" Jeanette Walls this afternoon.

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Book Concierge

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Remarkable Creatures – Tracy Chevalier
Book on CD narrated by Charlotte Perry and Susan Lyons
4****
This is a work of historical fiction focusing on two remarkable women who advanced the understanding of natural history with their discoveries. Mary Anning and Elizabeth Philpot had little in common, being separated by age, education level and social class, but they found friendship in their common interest in fossils. The setting is early 1800’s in the seaside village of Lyme Regis, England. The unmarried Philpot sisters have moved to this community from London. Elizabeth fills her time by combing the beach for fossils, and this is how she comes across the Mary Anning, a young girl from a poor working-class family, who has a keen eye for “curies” and helps support her family by selling the fossils she finds.
Both women have limited prospects. Mary’s life is limited by her social class and lack of education. Elizabeth, while educated, has no money or particular social standing, and cannot rely on her looks to attract a suitable husband. I particularly liked how Chevalier explored the role of women in this era.
I also like the way Chevalier develops the unlikely friendship between these two women. I have to admit that I was sometimes irritated with Elizabeth’s superior attitude, but I applauded her for championing Mary’s cause. As for Mary … I just loved her. She showed such intelligence and drive.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Ursula

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Finished Shadow Dance by Julie Garwood 4 ★'s. Now I'm reading Storm Front by Jim Butcher.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

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The Restorer, Amanda Stevens (LOL)
★ ★ ★
I had such high hopes for this book, the plot had so very much potential, but it was sooooooooooooooooooooooo sloooooooooooooooooooooow & rather Booooooooooooooooooooooring. I finally just skimmed the last quarter of it until I got to the good parts.
It had a satisfying ending, with a promise of more to come...... But still too many loose ends and unanswered questions.
I would have preferred more dialog, more... I don't know.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )

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- Leah K
  
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  I enjoyed the book enough that I look forward to the other books in the trilogy by Amanda Stevens.
  
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- BookwormErin
  
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  I loved it and I'm now reading the second book The Kingdom. It has sucked me in
  
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Karen R

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the preacher's bride by jody hedlund, read by mim black.
"no matter the sacrifice, elizabeth withbread would serve a wounded family. no matter the danger, john costin was determined to speak god's word. neither expected to fall in love.
as enimies threaten to silence costin - and those to him - will following their hearts cost john and elizabeth everything.
i enjoyed this book which is the fictionalised version of the coming together of elizabeth and john bunyon the author of pilrim's progress.
after the end the author gives the names of the people from the characters in the story who existed in those times and how much was based on existing documents.
a very well written story with strong characterisation. rcommended if you like this genre of book.
i am now waiting for more of her books to be released in the audio format.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Brenda Sorrels

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Finished Lincoln by Gore Vidal, finally! Just started a new book today and I already LOVE it.....at least the first couple of chapters. The Barbarian Nurseries by Hector Tobar!
I'll keep you posted...

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Book Concierge

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Coop: A Year of Poultry, Pigs and Parenting – Michael Perry
4****
In this third memoir Perry relates the early years of his marriage and efforts to establish a farmstead –raising chickens and pigs, and planting a good-size vegetable garden.
Perry is a humorist and a philosopher. He ruminates about the joys and difficulties of the rural life. He can be hilariously funny, especially when poking fun at himself. He doesn’t sugarcoat the life of a farmer, but he elevates it, as when he relates his daughter’s joy at holding that first, still-warm, egg from their own chickens. His descriptions on the growth and development of his children are priceless. Who can possibly out-think a six-year-old determined to get a horse? Or reason with a teething infant?
I find myself laughing out loud, and also crying in empathy. I hope he keeps writing for a long time.

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Auntie Nanuuq . (edited)

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Low-Carb Gourmet: 250 Delicious & Satisfying Recipes, Karen Barnaby
★ ★ 1/2
Contains chapters on:
What's for Breakfast (Cheesecake pancakes & Omega Waffles)
Little Nibbles & Dips (Five-spice sesame walnuts & Prawns w/ peppery garlic vinaigrette)
Soups (Italian egg drop parmesan & Escarole w/ turkey meatballs)
Salads & Dressings (Mom's cauliflower salad & Pine nut w/ parsley salad)
Vegetables (Buttered sesame kale & Scalloped Savoy cabbage)
Fish (Baked halibut w/ lemon-basil vinaigrette & Fresh salmon cakes)
Chicken & Turkey (simple chicken w/ coconut curry & 90-minute miracle turkey)
Beef, Pork & Lamb (Keema: spiced ground beef & Donald's deep dish pizza quiche & Pork-shitake mushroom meatballs)
Sauces & Condiments (Fontina- parmesan cheese sauce & Aioli)
Desserts (Lime angel custard & Vanilla panna cotta)
Recipe Nutrients at a Glance
Index
I found this cookbook to basically uninspiring not only the recipes but the lack of color photographs.
I am a very adventurous eater, but many of these recipes put me off, ESPECIALLY the desserts... I refuse to substitute sugar for chemicals of any type. I also will not eat soy as much of it is now a Monsanto GMO product. Honestly does "Tofu-Roni & Cheese" sound appetizing to you? (I thought not)
By all means borrow it from the library, but don't waste your money purchasing it unless you get such a deal on it that you just Can NOT pass it by!

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Julie L (edited)

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FinishedIn the Garden of Beasts-Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler's Berlin
by Erik Larson and The Woman in White.
Halfway through Thunderstruck by Larsen.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Hope H

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Jusst finished M.C. Beaton's latest Hamish McBeth mystery Death of a Kingfisher.
Beaton's horrible writing style in her Agatha Raisin series has now spread to her Hamish McBeth series. UGH. She phoned this one in - there's no character development, very little of the quirky residents of Lochdubh, and not much of a mystery. At least it was short.

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Auntie Nanuuq .

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Well, HOOEY!
Her last Hamish Macbeth was terrible as well....... Guess I won't be reading or ordering this one.....
So sad......

posted 1 year ago. ( permalink )
Sara W

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The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins
4 Stars
I may be one of the last people to read this trilogy, and I have to say I'm glad I waited. Not because I didn't enjoy them, I very much did, but because I didn't have to wait for any of the books to be released. I started each book immediately upon completing the last and so they read as one. I would have been driven mad waiting to find out what happened between books one and two and between books two and three. I read the trilogy as a whole, and so my review is of the series as a whole. It also means I will be leaving out more than the briefest of summaries so as to avoid any spoilers for any of those people who haven't yet been convinced to run out and read these books.
Katniss Everdeen lives in a bleak future, one in which the world as we know it is gone, and has been replaced by a bleak dystopian society. She lives in Panem, a nation situated in what was once North America, made up of 12 unique districts, and controlled by the Capitol. The population is controlled by gruesome means, in the form of The Hunger Games, to which each district must send two tributes, one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18, who will then battle to the death in a televised competition, in exchange for privelages in the form of food and money to be given to their district. When, against all odds, her 12 year old sister is selected to represent District 12, Katniss volunteers to go in her place, setting of a chain reaction with consequences no one foresaw.
Dystopian literature is nothing new, and it is clear that Suzanne Collins is heavily influenced by some of the giants in this genre. Yet her story captured the imagination of not only her target audience, young adults, but people everywhere. What she has accomplished was to give those people who felt a void upon the completion of Harry Potter something else to read. Another intelligent story with brave, unique, and intelligent characters and a richly drawn setting and a plot that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go until the end. I was a tad bit disappointed in the end, though not for the reasons many readers were. It just felt rushed, and some of the decisions that Katniss made felt out of character. She did however make the same choice I would have made in her place. This is honestly the only complaint I have about any of the three books. I otherwise enjoyed every moment I spent immersed in Collin's world. I may be one of the last people to read these books, but to those few who still haven't, believe me when I say, you're missing out.

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