by Eric Tyson
Dakota County audioCDs
genre: self-help, finance
This would be better in book form. Listening was just so-so. As with other "Dummies" books, I enjoy the author's straight-talk style. So much of this is common sense, but I'm not very good with my money. The first section was most helpful. I need to pay off my consumer debt and live within my means. Investing and the rest doesn't mean much if I charge more than I can pay.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Astrid & Veronika
by Linda Olsson
Hennepin County Library, paperback 150 pages
genre: relationships
I don't remember where I read the review of this book, but it intrigued me. I waited from July to December to get a copy from the library and then was too insanely busy to read it! I finished it yesterday on vacation (and now owe money for the three days it's overdue). Beautiful, haunting, touching.
Astrid is old and lonely. Veronika moves in next door to write and work through her grief. The two women are unlikely friends, but become confidantes of their deepest secrets. From New Zealand to Sweden and through the course of a year, we get to know these women and their lives' stories.
Now I need to find and listen to Brahms' sonata for violin and piano, no. 3 in D minor, especially the second movement. Oh, and eat some wild strawberries. This would be a great discussion book. I'm sad for Johan, wonder about the dynamic between Astrid and her daughter, and would love to hear other women's opinions.
*** The above was written 12/29/2010. I added the below on 11/4/2019.***
I wish I had re-read this in time for the Jordan Library book club in September, but I have finally finished my re-read now. I marked some passages.
Page 138 - "January was hot and sunny and we spent most weekends on the beach. But it never got any easier. The sea became my enemy. We were fighting over the same man." Veronika, talking about her time with James. The author has such a way of expressing things and creating word pictures!
Page 153 - When Astrid shares what happened to her daughter, she says, "Perhaps it wasn't that my love wasn't strong enough. Perhaps it was that my hatred was too strong." Her love for her daughter and her hatred of her husband (and her dad) . . . what tragic sadness! Later, she says, "I think that if we can find the words, and if we can find someone to tell them to, then perhaps we can see things differently. But I had no words, and I had nobody."
Page 156 - "Here, it was as if summer and winter were intertwined: there was summer in the midst of winter, winter in the midst of summer. And there was no autumn, no spring, no time for anticipation, no time for remembrance. Only the present." Not sure why I marked this . . . Veronika is talking about her time in New Zealand. I think it made me think of how much I love living in Minnesota and having four distinct seasons. Each one has its own character and charm.
Sensory! taste, sounds, smell, sight - so evocative!
*** Spoilers below***
Page 170 - "When I think about it now, I wish there had been more time. I feel that grief has its own organic processing time, which cannot be compressed without consequences. Given time to take its course, perhaps the healing is more complete." Did anyone even know she was pregnant with James' child? How awful to deal with the double grief of losing him and then miscarrying the baby!
Page 189 - "Parents have such formidable power. They can protect you from all the pain in the world. Or inflict the hardest pain of all. And as children we accept what we get. Perhaps we believe that anything is better than that which we all fear the most." Astrid, talking about her father. Such intense conversations these two women have!
Page 218 - "And it is my favourite season, autumn. Some see it as the end of the year. Death. But to me, it has always felt like the beginning. Pure and clean, with a lack of distractions. Time to set your house in order and prepare for winter." Astrid, philosophizing to Veronika. It's a conversation of catharsis.
Page 229 - Their goodbye is sad and beautiful and fits them well.
Page 240 - Astrid's letter to Veronika at the end is lovely. "You have known me as no other person has. And I like to think that I have known you a little. . . . To some, my life may seem tragic. Wasted. That is not how it appears to me. You have given me a new perspective. You pulled me out into the bright life again, opened my eyes. Made the ice thaw. And I am so very grateful."
There's a paragraph about love on page 241 that I was going to scan and include, but I'm almost falling asleep so I'll head to bed now and perhaps re-read the book again in nine years!
Here's the list of study guide questions:
Hennepin County Library, paperback 150 pages
genre: relationships
I don't remember where I read the review of this book, but it intrigued me. I waited from July to December to get a copy from the library and then was too insanely busy to read it! I finished it yesterday on vacation (and now owe money for the three days it's overdue). Beautiful, haunting, touching.
Astrid is old and lonely. Veronika moves in next door to write and work through her grief. The two women are unlikely friends, but become confidantes of their deepest secrets. From New Zealand to Sweden and through the course of a year, we get to know these women and their lives' stories.
Now I need to find and listen to Brahms' sonata for violin and piano, no. 3 in D minor, especially the second movement. Oh, and eat some wild strawberries. This would be a great discussion book. I'm sad for Johan, wonder about the dynamic between Astrid and her daughter, and would love to hear other women's opinions.
*** The above was written 12/29/2010. I added the below on 11/4/2019.***
I wish I had re-read this in time for the Jordan Library book club in September, but I have finally finished my re-read now. I marked some passages.
Page 138 - "January was hot and sunny and we spent most weekends on the beach. But it never got any easier. The sea became my enemy. We were fighting over the same man." Veronika, talking about her time with James. The author has such a way of expressing things and creating word pictures!
Page 153 - When Astrid shares what happened to her daughter, she says, "Perhaps it wasn't that my love wasn't strong enough. Perhaps it was that my hatred was too strong." Her love for her daughter and her hatred of her husband (and her dad) . . . what tragic sadness! Later, she says, "I think that if we can find the words, and if we can find someone to tell them to, then perhaps we can see things differently. But I had no words, and I had nobody."
Page 156 - "Here, it was as if summer and winter were intertwined: there was summer in the midst of winter, winter in the midst of summer. And there was no autumn, no spring, no time for anticipation, no time for remembrance. Only the present." Not sure why I marked this . . . Veronika is talking about her time in New Zealand. I think it made me think of how much I love living in Minnesota and having four distinct seasons. Each one has its own character and charm.
Sensory! taste, sounds, smell, sight - so evocative!
*** Spoilers below***
Page 170 - "When I think about it now, I wish there had been more time. I feel that grief has its own organic processing time, which cannot be compressed without consequences. Given time to take its course, perhaps the healing is more complete." Did anyone even know she was pregnant with James' child? How awful to deal with the double grief of losing him and then miscarrying the baby!
Page 189 - "Parents have such formidable power. They can protect you from all the pain in the world. Or inflict the hardest pain of all. And as children we accept what we get. Perhaps we believe that anything is better than that which we all fear the most." Astrid, talking about her father. Such intense conversations these two women have!
Page 218 - "And it is my favourite season, autumn. Some see it as the end of the year. Death. But to me, it has always felt like the beginning. Pure and clean, with a lack of distractions. Time to set your house in order and prepare for winter." Astrid, philosophizing to Veronika. It's a conversation of catharsis.
Page 229 - Their goodbye is sad and beautiful and fits them well.
Page 240 - Astrid's letter to Veronika at the end is lovely. "You have known me as no other person has. And I like to think that I have known you a little. . . . To some, my life may seem tragic. Wasted. That is not how it appears to me. You have given me a new perspective. You pulled me out into the bright life again, opened my eyes. Made the ice thaw. And I am so very grateful."
There's a paragraph about love on page 241 that I was going to scan and include, but I'm almost falling asleep so I'll head to bed now and perhaps re-read the book again in nine years!
Here's the list of study guide questions:
Friday, December 24, 2010
Love Me When I'm Most Unlovable
by Robert Ricken
PRMS professional collection, paperback, 44 pages
These glimpses of middle school psyches really ring true. I got this at MMSA. I'll share it with my staff. One of my favorites:
When I was in 7th grade
my dad passed away.
My mom and I had a really
hard time for awhile
Mr. Clark, my history teacher
came to the wake in a snow storm.
He's the only one I believe
when he says if I need anything, he'll be there.
The author uses different fonts, bold, color, etc. to emphasize the intent of the language. Interesting, funny, diverse - just like middle school kids. This slim book is a great reminder of why we do what we do. Because we matter in kids' lives.
PRMS professional collection, paperback, 44 pages
These glimpses of middle school psyches really ring true. I got this at MMSA. I'll share it with my staff. One of my favorites:
When I was in 7th grade
my dad passed away.
My mom and I had a really
hard time for awhile
Mr. Clark, my history teacher
came to the wake in a snow storm.
He's the only one I believe
when he says if I need anything, he'll be there.
The author uses different fonts, bold, color, etc. to emphasize the intent of the language. Interesting, funny, diverse - just like middle school kids. This slim book is a great reminder of why we do what we do. Because we matter in kids' lives.
Beautiful Beds: 14 Warm and Wonderful Quilts
by Rosemary Wilkinson
Hennepin County Library, paperback 109 pages
genre: quilting!
This is gorgeous to look at! I can't possibly think of starting any new projects right now, but I love to look at beautiful quilts. This book is one that I would seriously consider getting again (or buying). The photos and instructions are quite good. Each design is shown with multiple color combos - very helpful, since fabric choices change the "feel" of the quilt.
Hennepin County Library, paperback 109 pages
genre: quilting!
This is gorgeous to look at! I can't possibly think of starting any new projects right now, but I love to look at beautiful quilts. This book is one that I would seriously consider getting again (or buying). The photos and instructions are quite good. Each design is shown with multiple color combos - very helpful, since fabric choices change the "feel" of the quilt.
Stolen in the Night
by Patricia MacDonald
long story . . .
genre: murder mystery
I had checked out the audiobook of this for my dad a year ago. The last disk was so badly scratched that he didn't find out who the killer was. I had checked out a print edition and started reading it into an audio format on my laptop while he was in Florida last winter. I finally had to return it to the library, so I just bought a copy off Amazon. Earlier this week, I finally finished reading it aloud to him.
Tess is at the center of this story. When she was a child, her sister was abducted from the tent they were sleeping in. The man that Tess identified has died via death penalty, but new DNA evidence has exonerated him. Tess and her quest for truth lead her through many suspicions and discoveries. Not my type of story . . . but my dad seemed to enjoy it, especially finally knowing the ending!
long story . . .
genre: murder mystery
I had checked out the audiobook of this for my dad a year ago. The last disk was so badly scratched that he didn't find out who the killer was. I had checked out a print edition and started reading it into an audio format on my laptop while he was in Florida last winter. I finally had to return it to the library, so I just bought a copy off Amazon. Earlier this week, I finally finished reading it aloud to him.
Tess is at the center of this story. When she was a child, her sister was abducted from the tent they were sleeping in. The man that Tess identified has died via death penalty, but new DNA evidence has exonerated him. Tess and her quest for truth lead her through many suspicions and discoveries. Not my type of story . . . but my dad seemed to enjoy it, especially finally knowing the ending!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Full Service
by Will Weaver
Carver County Library, paperback, ? pages
genre: YA coming-of-age
This was our December PRMS book club title. It was a re-read for me. Will Weaver is one of my favorite Minnesota authors. In this story, a 16-year-old boy is encouraged by his mother to get a job in town (rather than staying on the farm) for the summer. When he starts working at a gas station, he "meets the public" as his mother intended. My favorite parts are the ones with the gangster. I like this main character and his growth as a young man. The book club enjoyed it.
Carver County Library, paperback, ? pages
genre: YA coming-of-age
This was our December PRMS book club title. It was a re-read for me. Will Weaver is one of my favorite Minnesota authors. In this story, a 16-year-old boy is encouraged by his mother to get a job in town (rather than staying on the farm) for the summer. When he starts working at a gas station, he "meets the public" as his mother intended. My favorite parts are the ones with the gangster. I like this main character and his growth as a young man. The book club enjoyed it.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Hattie Big Sky
by Kirby Larson
Scott County Library audioCDs 8.5 hours
read by Kirsten Potter
genre: YA historical fiction
For the most part, I enjoyed this story. Potter was an excellent narrator. It was especially enjoyable to "read" a story of a homesteader in the early 1900s so soon after having read My Antonia. The ending, though, was a disappointment. After all Hattie went through to earn the homestead, and after all the letter writing between her and Charlie, it just seemed to flop at the end. What a letdown. Beautiful story for the most part.
Scott County Library audioCDs 8.5 hours
read by Kirsten Potter
genre: YA historical fiction
For the most part, I enjoyed this story. Potter was an excellent narrator. It was especially enjoyable to "read" a story of a homesteader in the early 1900s so soon after having read My Antonia. The ending, though, was a disappointment. After all Hattie went through to earn the homestead, and after all the letter writing between her and Charlie, it just seemed to flop at the end. What a letdown. Beautiful story for the most part.
Various Titles
by Doctor Seuss
mine, Mary Verbick's
various lengths
The 8th grade book club brought up the topic of Doctor Seuss last week. Mary read the Sneetches to me the next day and loaned me a book that had "The Green Pants Man" in it (not the real title, but there's an empty pair of green pants that scares the main character in it). Then I brought in two of my favorites to share with her - My Many Colored Days and Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! Then she loaned me "The King's Stilts" and "Horton Hatches an Egg." I had never heard of the stilts book, but knew Horton's story (mostly from the Jordan play with Matt Timmons as Horton). Fun stuff. Seuss was never one of my faves when the boys were little, but this has been fun to share titles with another reader.
mine, Mary Verbick's
various lengths
The 8th grade book club brought up the topic of Doctor Seuss last week. Mary read the Sneetches to me the next day and loaned me a book that had "The Green Pants Man" in it (not the real title, but there's an empty pair of green pants that scares the main character in it). Then I brought in two of my favorites to share with her - My Many Colored Days and Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! Then she loaned me "The King's Stilts" and "Horton Hatches an Egg." I had never heard of the stilts book, but knew Horton's story (mostly from the Jordan play with Matt Timmons as Horton). Fun stuff. Seuss was never one of my faves when the boys were little, but this has been fun to share titles with another reader.
It's Our World, Too! Young People Who Are Making a Difference
Phillip Hoose
East Union m.c. paperback 166 pages
genre: service learning
The 14 young people whose stories make up the first part of the book are inspiring. What extraordinary kids to achieve so much! Their point is that they're just ordinary kids who are making a difference the best way they know how. Very cool.
The second half of the book is a "how-to" for kids. Interesting, but not as much as the personal stories. I think I'll buy a copy for my collection, though the pictures and examples are getting pretty old (1980s). It would be great to see kids inspired to make a difference in their own community!
East Union m.c. paperback 166 pages
genre: service learning
The 14 young people whose stories make up the first part of the book are inspiring. What extraordinary kids to achieve so much! Their point is that they're just ordinary kids who are making a difference the best way they know how. Very cool.
The second half of the book is a "how-to" for kids. Interesting, but not as much as the personal stories. I think I'll buy a copy for my collection, though the pictures and examples are getting pretty old (1980s). It would be great to see kids inspired to make a difference in their own community!
Wednesday, December 08, 2010
Lily's Crossing
by Patricia Reilly Giff
PRMS hardcover 180 pages
genre: YA historical fiction, coming of age
I just now realized that I'm not sure what the title is about . . . good thing we're discussing it at 7th grade book club tomorrow. Lily goes to Rockaway for the summer and is dismayed to learn that her best friend's family is moving to another state and her father is joining the war effort. She does not get along well with her grandmother. What looks to be a miserable summer is transformed by Albert, a cat, and some revelations about telling the truth.
This book felt very, very young to me. It was good, but seemed geared to upper elementary kids.
PRMS hardcover 180 pages
genre: YA historical fiction, coming of age
I just now realized that I'm not sure what the title is about . . . good thing we're discussing it at 7th grade book club tomorrow. Lily goes to Rockaway for the summer and is dismayed to learn that her best friend's family is moving to another state and her father is joining the war effort. She does not get along well with her grandmother. What looks to be a miserable summer is transformed by Albert, a cat, and some revelations about telling the truth.
This book felt very, very young to me. It was good, but seemed geared to upper elementary kids.
Sammy Keyes and the Dead Giveaway
by Wendelin Van Draanen
Scott County Library audioCDs 7:06
read by Tara Sands
genre: YA mystery
Seventh grader Sammy Keyes has a best friend Marisa and a nemesis in Heather. I've heard some kids rave about these books, so thought I'd better read one. I will need to actually read a print book, though, because Sands definitely affected the way I experienced this book. She did a fine job, but her voice work kind of grated on me. The story was interesting enough - I'll continue to booktalk it to sixth graders. The crux of the intertwining story lines is that honesty is the best policy.
Scott County Library audioCDs 7:06
read by Tara Sands
genre: YA mystery
Seventh grader Sammy Keyes has a best friend Marisa and a nemesis in Heather. I've heard some kids rave about these books, so thought I'd better read one. I will need to actually read a print book, though, because Sands definitely affected the way I experienced this book. She did a fine job, but her voice work kind of grated on me. The story was interesting enough - I'll continue to booktalk it to sixth graders. The crux of the intertwining story lines is that honesty is the best policy.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
While We’re Far Apart
By Lynn Austin
Dakota County Library, paperback, 408 pages
Genre: Christian and Jewish relationships, family, and some mystery
Set during WWII, this book covers a lot of ground for its main characters. Young Esther and Peter don’t want their father to join the military (and their mom died a year earlier when hit by a car). Penny offers to watch the children because she’s really in love with Eddie, their father, and hopes to get into his good graces. Mr. Mendel hasn’t prayed or been to synagogue since his wife was killed alongside Eddie’s wife. Throw in the anti-Jewish sentiment, Penny’s elderly and overprotective parents, and a half-dozen other threads, and this is a very good story. I especially liked Mr. Mendel’s relationship with the children and with God. His bitterness and anger turns soft – toward redemption and renewal. Beautiful.
Dakota County Library, paperback, 408 pages
Genre: Christian and Jewish relationships, family, and some mystery
Set during WWII, this book covers a lot of ground for its main characters. Young Esther and Peter don’t want their father to join the military (and their mom died a year earlier when hit by a car). Penny offers to watch the children because she’s really in love with Eddie, their father, and hopes to get into his good graces. Mr. Mendel hasn’t prayed or been to synagogue since his wife was killed alongside Eddie’s wife. Throw in the anti-Jewish sentiment, Penny’s elderly and overprotective parents, and a half-dozen other threads, and this is a very good story. I especially liked Mr. Mendel’s relationship with the children and with God. His bitterness and anger turns soft – toward redemption and renewal. Beautiful.
Mrs. Pollifax and the Second Thief
By Dorothy Gilman
Scott County Library audioCDs 6.25 hours
Read by Barbara Rosenblatt
This isn’t one of my favorite Pollifax books, but I enjoyed it. Emily gets called in to help Farrell in Sicily. I like her innocent resourcefulness and the adventure. This is one of the few books that doesn’t have a follow-up scene with Carstairs and Bishop, which is one of my favorite aspects of the stories. Kate Rossiter and Farrell fall madly in love (someone has to) and Kate’s aunt finally decides to get married. Forged art, a poor but developing village, and the re-appearance of Aristotle are the scenery here.
Scott County Library audioCDs 6.25 hours
Read by Barbara Rosenblatt
This isn’t one of my favorite Pollifax books, but I enjoyed it. Emily gets called in to help Farrell in Sicily. I like her innocent resourcefulness and the adventure. This is one of the few books that doesn’t have a follow-up scene with Carstairs and Bishop, which is one of my favorite aspects of the stories. Kate Rossiter and Farrell fall madly in love (someone has to) and Kate’s aunt finally decides to get married. Forged art, a poor but developing village, and the re-appearance of Aristotle are the scenery here.
All Rivers Flow to the Sea
By Alison McGhee
Chanhassen HS hardcover 168 pages
Genre: YA coming of age, dealing with loss & grief
Long story short: I picked this title for 8th grade book club because I got it as a book club kit from Carver County libraries. As soon as I handed them out, I had only a half-hour wait until an eighth grader came back and showed me page 13 . . . sex. Not terribly graphic, but shocking to some kids. Ugh. I recalled the copies (though five are still out) and gave them Hope Was Here. Then I took this one home to read. It’s actually a very haunting book about a sixteen-year-old girl who’s in a car accident with her older sister. Her sister lies in a bed in a care facility, comatose. Rose struggles with memories of the night of the crash, her mother’s response, and her own numbness. My favorite characters are William T and Tom Miller. I like how William tries so hard to help Rose, scrambling eggs for her and driving her to see Ivy - “Younger and Elder” he calls the girls. Tom is a young man who sees and feels differently than his teenage peers. What a gem.
Chanhassen HS hardcover 168 pages
Genre: YA coming of age, dealing with loss & grief
Long story short: I picked this title for 8th grade book club because I got it as a book club kit from Carver County libraries. As soon as I handed them out, I had only a half-hour wait until an eighth grader came back and showed me page 13 . . . sex. Not terribly graphic, but shocking to some kids. Ugh. I recalled the copies (though five are still out) and gave them Hope Was Here. Then I took this one home to read. It’s actually a very haunting book about a sixteen-year-old girl who’s in a car accident with her older sister. Her sister lies in a bed in a care facility, comatose. Rose struggles with memories of the night of the crash, her mother’s response, and her own numbness. My favorite characters are William T and Tom Miller. I like how William tries so hard to help Rose, scrambling eggs for her and driving her to see Ivy - “Younger and Elder” he calls the girls. Tom is a young man who sees and feels differently than his teenage peers. What a gem.
Charlie Bone and the Shadow
By Jenny Nimmo
Genre: YA fantasy, mys tery
PRMS hardcover 427 pages
Charlie goes into a picture that his grandma brings home and is sucked into Badlock. The usual bad stuff ensues, though most of this story does NOT take place at Bloor Academy. Quite frankly, this series doesn’t really hold my interest anymore. It feels repetitive and pointless. I don’t think I’ll bother to read the one after this. And there were references in this one to events that had happened previously that I just don’t remember . . . but I’m confident I read all the books up to this one. If my mind wanders while I’m reading, I need to read something else.
Genre: YA fantasy, mys tery
PRMS hardcover 427 pages
Charlie goes into a picture that his grandma brings home and is sucked into Badlock. The usual bad stuff ensues, though most of this story does NOT take place at Bloor Academy. Quite frankly, this series doesn’t really hold my interest anymore. It feels repetitive and pointless. I don’t think I’ll bother to read the one after this. And there were references in this one to events that had happened previously that I just don’t remember . . . but I’m confident I read all the books up to this one. If my mind wanders while I’m reading, I need to read something else.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Jazz
by Geoffrey C. Ward
Dakota County Library audioCDs
read by LeVar Burton
genre: non-fiction, music history
This was fascinating, but I didn't finish it. I've been feeling overwhelmed and needing to pare down the "stuff" in my life. As an audiobook, I was somehow expecting more samples of the music being described in the text. There were so many names I didn't recognize. It's interesting to learn how many different people claimed to have created jazz as an art form! I'd like to read the full book sometime. I can borrow it from Scott Prescott, I'm sure.
Dakota County Library audioCDs
read by LeVar Burton
genre: non-fiction, music history
This was fascinating, but I didn't finish it. I've been feeling overwhelmed and needing to pare down the "stuff" in my life. As an audiobook, I was somehow expecting more samples of the music being described in the text. There were so many names I didn't recognize. It's interesting to learn how many different people claimed to have created jazz as an art form! I'd like to read the full book sometime. I can borrow it from Scott Prescott, I'm sure.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Holy Bible: the book of Acts
Contemporary English Version
Dakota County Library audioCDs, 2.75 hours
Narrated by Peter Jay Fernandez
One of my favorite books of the Bible! I love the way God moves so powerfully through the Holy Spirit. Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus is an incredible example of how lives can be changed by the Lord. Fernandez has a very easy voice to listen to.
Dakota County Library audioCDs, 2.75 hours
Narrated by Peter Jay Fernandez
One of my favorite books of the Bible! I love the way God moves so powerfully through the Holy Spirit. Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus is an incredible example of how lives can be changed by the Lord. Fernandez has a very easy voice to listen to.
Her Daughter's Dream
by Francine Rivers
Andrea's hardcover 574 pages
Marta & Niklas, Hildemara & Trip, Carolyn & Mitch, May Flower Dawn & Jason, Faith . . . The story begun in Her Mother's Hope is finished here. The generational love and conflict left me frustrated at first (why don't these people just talk to one another honestly?!?!?!) and then turned to contemplation. Why do families function the way they do? Why is it so hard to have honest, direct communication? May Flower Dawn's story (and Carolyn's) were my favorite part. Marta ended up being my favorite character - weird considering how much I disliked her in the previous book. Rivers writes a good story about relationships and life.
Andrea's hardcover 574 pages
Marta & Niklas, Hildemara & Trip, Carolyn & Mitch, May Flower Dawn & Jason, Faith . . . The story begun in Her Mother's Hope is finished here. The generational love and conflict left me frustrated at first (why don't these people just talk to one another honestly?!?!?!) and then turned to contemplation. Why do families function the way they do? Why is it so hard to have honest, direct communication? May Flower Dawn's story (and Carolyn's) were my favorite part. Marta ended up being my favorite character - weird considering how much I disliked her in the previous book. Rivers writes a good story about relationships and life.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
City of Light, City of Dark
by Avi, drawings by Brian Floca
PRMS paperback 192 pages
genre: YA / graphic novel / fantasy
This was yet another re-read for me, in preparation for the sixth grade book club tomorrow. Enjoyable, clean, action-packed, with some interesting observations to be made. I'm looking forward to discussing it.
PRMS paperback 192 pages
genre: YA / graphic novel / fantasy
This was yet another re-read for me, in preparation for the sixth grade book club tomorrow. Enjoyable, clean, action-packed, with some interesting observations to be made. I'm looking forward to discussing it.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Who the Man
by Chris Lynch
PRMS hardcover 186 pages
Hmmm. This took me a long time to read because I had trouble getting into it. Not sure what kind of middle school reader would be drawn to it, but it's definitely less violent and offensive than other Lynch books I've read. Earl is a large 13-year-old who can pass for an adult. His thoughts and feelings, though, are still developing between childhood and maturity. His proclivity for resolving problems with fighting gets him a week out of school.
His relationship with wimpy Bobby reminded me of Freak the Mighty. The tension between his parents was too ill-defined until the end of the book. And his obsession for Louisa was also difficult to follow. This book just didn't connect for me . . .
PRMS hardcover 186 pages
Hmmm. This took me a long time to read because I had trouble getting into it. Not sure what kind of middle school reader would be drawn to it, but it's definitely less violent and offensive than other Lynch books I've read. Earl is a large 13-year-old who can pass for an adult. His thoughts and feelings, though, are still developing between childhood and maturity. His proclivity for resolving problems with fighting gets him a week out of school.
His relationship with wimpy Bobby reminded me of Freak the Mighty. The tension between his parents was too ill-defined until the end of the book. And his obsession for Louisa was also difficult to follow. This book just didn't connect for me . . .
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Harry Potter (1-7)
by J.K. Rowling
home copies
genre: YA fantasy
I re-read all the HP books over the last month or so. I think it was my version of vegging out in front of the TV. Enjoyable, relatively mindless relaxation. Louie teased me about re-reading these when I didn't get a book club title read in time . . . but it was enjoyable. And I think I *finally* understood the whole "elder wand master" thing at the end of #7. Call me slow. I thought the wand itself had physically transferred from Dumbledore to Draco to Harry. But the whole point was that the wand recognized them as its master, regardless of who physically held it. (I think this was my third reading of #7.) Ah well. On to the stack of books I've been putting off.
home copies
genre: YA fantasy
I re-read all the HP books over the last month or so. I think it was my version of vegging out in front of the TV. Enjoyable, relatively mindless relaxation. Louie teased me about re-reading these when I didn't get a book club title read in time . . . but it was enjoyable. And I think I *finally* understood the whole "elder wand master" thing at the end of #7. Call me slow. I thought the wand itself had physically transferred from Dumbledore to Draco to Harry. But the whole point was that the wand recognized them as its master, regardless of who physically held it. (I think this was my third reading of #7.) Ah well. On to the stack of books I've been putting off.
How Angel Peterson Got His Name
by Gary Paulsen
PRMS paperback 111 pages
genre: YA, biography / memoir, humor
Gary Paulsen is a master storyteller. It would be interesting to interview the other guys in this slim book of stories about his adolescence. This book is cleaner than some of Paulsen's other stories of his youth. This was a re-read for me, to get ready for our 8th grade book club this week. Archie is a memorable character - older and somewhat dangerous.
PRMS paperback 111 pages
genre: YA, biography / memoir, humor
Gary Paulsen is a master storyteller. It would be interesting to interview the other guys in this slim book of stories about his adolescence. This book is cleaner than some of Paulsen's other stories of his youth. This was a re-read for me, to get ready for our 8th grade book club this week. Archie is a memorable character - older and somewhat dangerous.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Lawn Boy Returns
by Gary Paulsen
PRMS, hardcover, 101 pages
genre: YA fiction, capitalism, humor
I didn't enjoy this one as much as Lawn Boy, but it was still a fun quick follow-up to the narrator's rise to fame and fortune in the first book. Zed is a nasty scoundrel who adds some zest to this story of what sudden f&f can bring to life. Very quick read.
PRMS, hardcover, 101 pages
genre: YA fiction, capitalism, humor
I didn't enjoy this one as much as Lawn Boy, but it was still a fun quick follow-up to the narrator's rise to fame and fortune in the first book. Zed is a nasty scoundrel who adds some zest to this story of what sudden f&f can bring to life. Very quick read.
My Antonia
by Willa Cather
Dakota County Library, audioCDs, 8 hours
read by Patrick Lawlor
genre: Pioneer America fiction
I'm so glad I grabbed this! It's one of those classics that I'd heard of but never read. I had to return it to the library before I finished, so I've got a copy from PRMS to finish the story of Jim Burden and his friendship with Bohemian Antonia. This narrator was fantastic! He brought the characters, the ethnic nuances, and the era to life. I wish I would have shared this one with my dad before it was due. I think he'd really enjoy it. Wonderful, lyrical, beautiful story.
Added 12/7/10:
My Antonia – print version PRMS
I enjoyed listening to the audiobook, but almost wish I’d read the print version. Unfortunately, I have more to do than time to do it right now. I got the book from my library, but want to put it away. I DID find time to read the introductory material, and found it very interesting. I didn’t really know much about Willa Cather earlier. She was quite an intellectual. How interesting that she’s best known for “pioneer” and “prairie” writing.
Added 12/31/2019:
Got the audiobook again (Scott County Library this time). Finally finished it! Took me a while (no driving during knee replacement surgery), but I finally got done. I think I prefer O Pioneer to this, but they're both quite good. It sure took me a long time to find out that I like Willa Cather's writing!
Antonia Shimerda and Jim Burden -friendship, potential romance . . . I was a little surprised at the way their stories turned out. Lena Lingard was a fun character, but I was glad when Jim left for Harvard. Tiny Soderball also surprised me, becoming an enterprising business owner and then a Klondike gold rush gal. The three young women had different personalities and life trajectories, but worked well together.
The part of the story where the "Russians" - Peter and Pavel - had their back story told was really creepy. The wedding party beset by wolves in Russia and them throwing the bride and groom off the sled to save themselves . . . No wonder bad luck followed them to the new world!
Listening to this, I had to remind myself that it is set in the 1880s to early 19teens . . . post Civil War. Beautifully written. Glad I spent the time.
Dakota County Library, audioCDs, 8 hours
read by Patrick Lawlor
genre: Pioneer America fiction
I'm so glad I grabbed this! It's one of those classics that I'd heard of but never read. I had to return it to the library before I finished, so I've got a copy from PRMS to finish the story of Jim Burden and his friendship with Bohemian Antonia. This narrator was fantastic! He brought the characters, the ethnic nuances, and the era to life. I wish I would have shared this one with my dad before it was due. I think he'd really enjoy it. Wonderful, lyrical, beautiful story.
Added 12/7/10:
My Antonia – print version PRMS
I enjoyed listening to the audiobook, but almost wish I’d read the print version. Unfortunately, I have more to do than time to do it right now. I got the book from my library, but want to put it away. I DID find time to read the introductory material, and found it very interesting. I didn’t really know much about Willa Cather earlier. She was quite an intellectual. How interesting that she’s best known for “pioneer” and “prairie” writing.
Added 12/31/2019:
Got the audiobook again (Scott County Library this time). Finally finished it! Took me a while (no driving during knee replacement surgery), but I finally got done. I think I prefer O Pioneer to this, but they're both quite good. It sure took me a long time to find out that I like Willa Cather's writing!
Antonia Shimerda and Jim Burden -friendship, potential romance . . . I was a little surprised at the way their stories turned out. Lena Lingard was a fun character, but I was glad when Jim left for Harvard. Tiny Soderball also surprised me, becoming an enterprising business owner and then a Klondike gold rush gal. The three young women had different personalities and life trajectories, but worked well together.
The part of the story where the "Russians" - Peter and Pavel - had their back story told was really creepy. The wedding party beset by wolves in Russia and them throwing the bride and groom off the sled to save themselves . . . No wonder bad luck followed them to the new world!
Listening to this, I had to remind myself that it is set in the 1880s to early 19teens . . . post Civil War. Beautifully written. Glad I spent the time.
Holy Bible: the gospel according to Luke
contemporary version
Dakota County library, audioCDs, 3 hours
read by Peter Jay Fernandez
genre: Scripture
I found it interesting that my mind wandered more listening to the book of Luke than during my earlier listen of Deuteronomy (or was it Numbers?). I wonder if that is because the book of Luke is so much more familiar to me. That is both saddening to me and instructive. As I've been reading through the Bible in a year, I am aware that there is always so much more to grasp. I am continually amazed when I read something as though for the first time (knowing that I've read the entire Bible cover-to-cover at least twice). Hmmm. More time and focus to really concentrate on Scriptures!
Dakota County library, audioCDs, 3 hours
read by Peter Jay Fernandez
genre: Scripture
I found it interesting that my mind wandered more listening to the book of Luke than during my earlier listen of Deuteronomy (or was it Numbers?). I wonder if that is because the book of Luke is so much more familiar to me. That is both saddening to me and instructive. As I've been reading through the Bible in a year, I am aware that there is always so much more to grasp. I am continually amazed when I read something as though for the first time (knowing that I've read the entire Bible cover-to-cover at least twice). Hmmm. More time and focus to really concentrate on Scriptures!
Finding God in the Lord of the Rings
by Kurt Bruner & Jim Ware
home paperback, 117 pages
genre: theology
This has taken me more than two years to read! I couldn't decide if it was intriguing or far-fetched. By the end I decided that the authors are devoted Christians who are LOTR buffs as well (a good fit for me). This is actually written almost like a devotional, but each section is much longer than the traditional daily devo that most of us use. They make some good points. It's interesting to hear people theorize about Tolkien's faith (or lack thereof). Some people vehemently deny that he had any Christianity at work in his life or writing and others who point out his close relationship with Christian author C.S. Lewis. Maybe someday I'll read some Tolkien biographies. Interesting to read the parallels in LOTR themes and Biblical teachings.
home paperback, 117 pages
genre: theology
This has taken me more than two years to read! I couldn't decide if it was intriguing or far-fetched. By the end I decided that the authors are devoted Christians who are LOTR buffs as well (a good fit for me). This is actually written almost like a devotional, but each section is much longer than the traditional daily devo that most of us use. They make some good points. It's interesting to hear people theorize about Tolkien's faith (or lack thereof). Some people vehemently deny that he had any Christianity at work in his life or writing and others who point out his close relationship with Christian author C.S. Lewis. Maybe someday I'll read some Tolkien biographies. Interesting to read the parallels in LOTR themes and Biblical teachings.
Friday, October 08, 2010
Erak's Ransom
by John Flanagan
Ranger's Apprentice #7
PRMS hardcover 373 pages
Going back in time to when Will was still an apprentice, this book covers the capture of Erak (as he goes on a raid to break up the monotony of being Oberjarl) by the Arradi. Cassandra and the other young ones, with the help of Halt and Gilan, go to ransom him but are instead drawn into a deadly battle in the desert.
Enjoyable as usual! My favorite part was probably the race. It reminded me a bit of Hidalgo. Looking forward to getting #8.
Above from 10.8.2010. Below added 6.9.23.
The start of the book is about Halt and Pauline planning their wedding. I only got to chapter 5 over several weeks (reading via Libby ebook) and just wasn't into it. I don't like all the jokes at Halt's expense. I don't like that this story jumps backward in the timeline (taking place before Will has his own post). I just have so many other books to read.
Monday, October 04, 2010
The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud
by Ben Sherwood
Dakota County Library, hardcover, 273 pages
genre: romance, supernatural
Charlie feels guilty about the accident that killed his little brother Sam. Since Charlie was dead for ten minutes before paramedic Florio shocked him back into life, Charlie can see and talk to dead people. He has made a promise to his brother to always be there for him, and as the cemetary caretaker, he keeps his promise. Every night, the brothers play ball, swim, and talk. Then Tess Carroll comes into Charlie's life.
I suspect that this is one story where I may actually enjoy the movie more than the book . . . I'll have to watch the movie to test that theory out. The most frustrating aspect of this book to me was the New Age-y approach to the afterlife. Hokey and sentamental, this is better than Nicholas Sparks, but not by much. I'm going to try really hard to *listen* during our book club discussion and not just spout my opinion.
Dakota County Library, hardcover, 273 pages
genre: romance, supernatural
Charlie feels guilty about the accident that killed his little brother Sam. Since Charlie was dead for ten minutes before paramedic Florio shocked him back into life, Charlie can see and talk to dead people. He has made a promise to his brother to always be there for him, and as the cemetary caretaker, he keeps his promise. Every night, the brothers play ball, swim, and talk. Then Tess Carroll comes into Charlie's life.
I suspect that this is one story where I may actually enjoy the movie more than the book . . . I'll have to watch the movie to test that theory out. The most frustrating aspect of this book to me was the New Age-y approach to the afterlife. Hokey and sentamental, this is better than Nicholas Sparks, but not by much. I'm going to try really hard to *listen* during our book club discussion and not just spout my opinion.
Sunday, October 03, 2010
Doctor Who: The Reign of Terror
by ???
full-cast audio, with William Hartnell, William Russell, and Carole Ann Ford
Dakota County Library audioCDs 2:31
genre: SciFi, historical fiction
Based on the older Dr. Who tv show, this story was NOT enjoyable in audio format. It made me crazy how stupidly the characters behave. Was the old Dr. Who really such an idiot? Maybe it's just been too long since I've watched the older version, but this was really frustrating to listen to. The setting of the French revolution was interesting, but also sad. The madness, anarchy, and murder were really the tone. I would not want to have lived during that era. Of course, they get away and all is well in the end.
The other frustration I have with most stories like this is that the audio track for voices is too quiet, but the sound effects and music are super-loud. I thought the tweeting birds would break my eardrums . . .
full-cast audio, with William Hartnell, William Russell, and Carole Ann Ford
Dakota County Library audioCDs 2:31
genre: SciFi, historical fiction
Based on the older Dr. Who tv show, this story was NOT enjoyable in audio format. It made me crazy how stupidly the characters behave. Was the old Dr. Who really such an idiot? Maybe it's just been too long since I've watched the older version, but this was really frustrating to listen to. The setting of the French revolution was interesting, but also sad. The madness, anarchy, and murder were really the tone. I would not want to have lived during that era. Of course, they get away and all is well in the end.
The other frustration I have with most stories like this is that the audio track for voices is too quiet, but the sound effects and music are super-loud. I thought the tweeting birds would break my eardrums . . .
Northanger Abbey
by Jane Austen
Dakota County Library audioCDs 7 hours
read by Donada Peters
genre: romance
I hadn't read this Austen story before. For the most part, I liked it. Catherine Morland goes to Bath with her friends the Allens. There she meets Henry Tilney and John Thorpe, among other people. I liked this story much better than Emma and Persuasion, but not as well as P&P and S&S. The reader does a fine job of relating the story. In fact, I stayed up too late on a work night to finish it because I was enjoying it so much!
Dakota County Library audioCDs 7 hours
read by Donada Peters
genre: romance
I hadn't read this Austen story before. For the most part, I liked it. Catherine Morland goes to Bath with her friends the Allens. There she meets Henry Tilney and John Thorpe, among other people. I liked this story much better than Emma and Persuasion, but not as well as P&P and S&S. The reader does a fine job of relating the story. In fact, I stayed up too late on a work night to finish it because I was enjoying it so much!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Gifts from the Sea
by Natalie Kinsey-Warnock
home, paperback, 112 pages
genre: children's coming-of-age
Enjoyable little book. Set in the 1846 on an island with a lighthouse, Quila and her father have just buried her mother when a baby shows up wrapped in a mattress after a storm. Caring for little Celia gives them both a new lease on life . . . until Margaret shows up. Cute story.
home, paperback, 112 pages
genre: children's coming-of-age
Enjoyable little book. Set in the 1846 on an island with a lighthouse, Quila and her father have just buried her mother when a baby shows up wrapped in a mattress after a storm. Caring for little Celia gives them both a new lease on life . . . until Margaret shows up. Cute story.
The Siege of Macindaw
by John Flanagan
Book 6 of The Ranger's Apprentice series
PRMS hardcover 293 pages
genre: adventure, fantasy
Nice! Of course, Will and Horace are victorious. I love the Skandians and Malcolm. The Scotti were an interesting addition. Keren and his mesmerizing blue stone, abrupt changes in behavior - not so much. Great fighting scenes. Looking forward to #7. (Is it weird that I enjoy YA books so much? Arrested development, perhaps.)
<Above written 9.30.2010. Below added 5.21.2023.>
Chapter 28: "Before you start swinging around like a demented milkmaid at a Spring Festival hop-dance, look over your damned shoulder!"
This line made me laugh! Gundar (one of the Skandians) is talking to Nils (one of his crew) as they are preparing to siege Macindaw castle.
I liked the way Will interacted with the various characters and planned to defeat Keren, Buttle, and the other bad guys.
I loved that Will and Horace drank so much coffee that Malcolm was seriously concerned about a shortage!
The Hobbit
by JRR Tolkien
audioCDs 11.25 hours Hennepin County Library
read by Rob Inglis
I'm glad I got this. It was nice that Louise and I could both enjoy it when we drove up to visit Morgan. This is "comfort food" of reading. Though Bilbo isn't my favorite character, I like the riddle game with Gollum, the scenes with trolls and spiders, Bard killing Smaug, and the role of the birds in this story. The dwarves' greed and stubbornness remind me of some in our society, too . . . so sad when people's desire for material possessions clouds their view of what is truly important.
<Above from 9.30.10. Below on 8.17.22>
I relistened to this exact version (Rob Inglis) on Libby recently. I enjoyed it but occasionally my brain was in LOTR instead . . . Louie and I rewatched Fellowship and Two Towers a few weeks ago . . . also, I listened while I was doing other things. It's nice sometimes to have a "comfort" read. I had forgotten how many songs were included! The dwarves singing about cracking Bilbo's plates I remembered, but there were SO MANY other songs - from elves, goblins, the men of Dale, . . . This is a lovely version to listen to.
<Below added 5.25.2023.>
I thought it had been a much longer time since I had listened to this! Less than a year . . . where was my brain last year? I got the audio on Libby because I spend so much time in my car and like having something to listen to, but also something I don't mind missing parts of if I'm focusing on something else (like safe driving).
Honestly, I much prefer reading the text even though Inglis does a fantastic job with the vocal work! As usual, I prefer the adventure, the riddles, the trolls and spiders over the character of Bilbo and the stubbornness and greed of Thorin. (I'm glad he and Bilbo reconcile before the end, though.) This time through, I actually fast-forwarded through many of the songs. My apologies to Tolkien and Tolkien purists.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
The Barcode Tattoo
by Suzanne Weyn
PRMS LA paperback 252 pages
genre: future / apocalyptic YA
Glad I finally read this one (it's our first 8th grade Book Club title). Disappointed in the main character being completely in love with two different guys in a short time span - but it's real, true love. Both times. Whatever!
Some of the apocalyptic stuff seemed believable until the end when it got too bizarrely New Age-y. People's mental abilities mutating within a few months? As a genetic adaptation to a new situation? Right.
It'll be interesting to hear what my students say about it.
PRMS LA paperback 252 pages
genre: future / apocalyptic YA
Glad I finally read this one (it's our first 8th grade Book Club title). Disappointed in the main character being completely in love with two different guys in a short time span - but it's real, true love. Both times. Whatever!
Some of the apocalyptic stuff seemed believable until the end when it got too bizarrely New Age-y. People's mental abilities mutating within a few months? As a genetic adaptation to a new situation? Right.
It'll be interesting to hear what my students say about it.
The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell
by Lilian Jackson Braun
Dakota County Library audioCDs 4 hours
read by George Guidall
genre: murder mystery
Don't know how I could have loved this series so much once upon a time. Now it all seems so worn out and trite. Qwilleran and his luxurious mustache, the cats, his relationship with Polly. Yuk. And how quickly and effortlessly people make major life changes. Just too pat. And how can anyone ignore Koko's messages after all the murders he's solved?
Guidall's voice is fantastic and he does a wonderful job with the material.
Dakota County Library audioCDs 4 hours
read by George Guidall
genre: murder mystery
Don't know how I could have loved this series so much once upon a time. Now it all seems so worn out and trite. Qwilleran and his luxurious mustache, the cats, his relationship with Polly. Yuk. And how quickly and effortlessly people make major life changes. Just too pat. And how can anyone ignore Koko's messages after all the murders he's solved?
Guidall's voice is fantastic and he does a wonderful job with the material.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
The Sorcerer of the North
Book 5 of The Ranger's Apprentice
by John Flanagan
PRMS hardcover 295 pages
genre: adventure, fantasy
He did it again! This story gets to a climax, then leaves us hanging. NOW I know why kids who read these books come into the media center frantically asking for the next book in the series! I was almost tempted to go in to work today to check the next one out! About five years have passed for the characters in Araluen. Will has just been assigned to his first post in Seacliff when the previous ranger decided to retire. He is soon sent on a special mission to the north. Mystery, danger, and unusual alliances ensue. The book ends with Will having failed to rescue Alyss from the duplicitous Keren. . .
<Above posted 9.18.2010. Below added 5.21.2023.>
I like how Will and Alyss discover Malcolm and the healing work he is doing. I love how Will rescues the dog! And how he makes peace with the Skandians . . . and then gives them the evil John Buttle. These stories are page-turners!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
The Icebound Land
Ranger's Apprentice #3
by John Flanagan
PRMS hardcover 266 pages
In this third installment of the series, Will and Evanlyn are brought to Skandia as slaves. Horace joins Halt in venturing to rescue them, though Halt forfeits his membership in the Rangers to do so. My favorite parts were where Will "shows up" Slagor and where Halt bests Dearnieux. These books create an insatiable desire to find out what happens next. . .
<Above published on 9.16.10. Below added 5.16.23.>
Libby ebook
The thing that really struck me in this book was the description of Will's addiction to Warmweed. The drug is given to him by another slave in the Skandians' yard and Will is so weakened by hunger, cold, and work that he gratefully chews it and enjoys the narcotic warmth. As the story goes along, the descriptions of his dependency are all too realistic.
Chapter 31: "Warmweed built up a physical dependence in its addicts, so that total deprivation meant actual pain. She would have to gradually wean the boy off the drug, . . . "
"For the first time, she saw a glint of expression in his normally dull gaze. But his attention was totally focused on the drug and she came to realize how completely it ruled his life and his mind these days. Silently, tears forming in her eyes, she watched the hollow shell who had once been such a vital, enthusiastic companion. She condemned Borsa and the other Skandians who had caused this to the hottest corner of whatever hell they believed in."
I enjoyed Evanlyn / Cassandra as a character. I'm so glad she was able to help Will escape.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Benjamin Franklin: an American Life
by Walter Isaacson
read by Boyd Gaines
Carver County Library, audioCDs 7 hours
genre: biography
This was interesting, but made me want to read another point of view. The author clearly has a huge amount of admiration for Franklin and pointed out repeatedly that he had a positive opinion of & relationships with, women, and that he was NOT a womanizer. Methinks he doth protest too much . . .
In any case, whether I would have liked old Ben or not, it's clear that he was an extraordinary person who impacted our country a great deal. His diplomacy in dealing with France and Britain were especially crucial. The author's stress on Franklin's religion of tolerance got a bit old, but it was an interesting and informative portrayal. I ought to read the autobiography of this influential man.
read by Boyd Gaines
Carver County Library, audioCDs 7 hours
genre: biography
This was interesting, but made me want to read another point of view. The author clearly has a huge amount of admiration for Franklin and pointed out repeatedly that he had a positive opinion of & relationships with, women, and that he was NOT a womanizer. Methinks he doth protest too much . . .
In any case, whether I would have liked old Ben or not, it's clear that he was an extraordinary person who impacted our country a great deal. His diplomacy in dealing with France and Britain were especially crucial. The author's stress on Franklin's religion of tolerance got a bit old, but it was an interesting and informative portrayal. I ought to read the autobiography of this influential man.
The Battle for Skandia
by John Flanagan
PRMS hardcover 294 pages
genre: fantasy adventure
I'm so glad Halt's back in the thick of things! Will, Halt, and Horace save Evanlyn from the marauders (Temujai) and end up helping to save Skandia as well. I like the strategy of the battle and Slagor's comeupance. These books are kind of addicting. (Louie is reading book 3, which I haven't blogged about yet) right now.
<Above published 9.11.10. Below added 5.16.23.>
Libby ebook.
Yep. I plowed right through books 1-4 and am currently on book 5. Addicting!
Chapter 40: "'I'm so sorry, everyone. But if you ever knew my grandmother, you'd understand why my grandfather might have been tempted! Grandma had a face like a robber's dog - and a temperament to match it!'"
Cassandra is not behaving in a very princess-like manner here, but she definitely helped Halt reconcile with her father, King Duncan. Her outburst made me laugh. She has just spent a year as a captive of a rough, raiding tribe of people . . . so her manners may take a while to revert to polite courtliness.
Chapter 40: " . . . Halt's tonsorial efforts."
I don't see that word often, but the fact that Halt's hair looks as though he's hacked it off with his belt knife . . . great use of context to teach vocab, Mr. Flanagan!
Something Rotten
by Jasper Fforde
Hennepin County Library, hardcover, 383 pages
genre: SciFi humor
This is the book I had initially "read" (listened to on CD) a few years ago. I love the Thursday Next series! This one has fictional character Kaine stirring up resentment against the Danish, Hamlet coming out of his book to spend some time with Thursday, Landen coming back, and Thursday getting the Neanderthals to help win Swindon's game so the world doesn't end. Great, bizarre stuff. Oh! And Thursday & Landen's child, Friday, only speaks in ipsum lorem!
Hennepin County Library, hardcover, 383 pages
genre: SciFi humor
This is the book I had initially "read" (listened to on CD) a few years ago. I love the Thursday Next series! This one has fictional character Kaine stirring up resentment against the Danish, Hamlet coming out of his book to spend some time with Thursday, Landen coming back, and Thursday getting the Neanderthals to help win Swindon's game so the world doesn't end. Great, bizarre stuff. Oh! And Thursday & Landen's child, Friday, only speaks in ipsum lorem!
Benny & Shrimp
by Katarina Mazetti
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 209 pages
translated from Swedish by Sarah Death
genre: relationships
Kathy Giesen had this on her kitchen counter and I was curious, so I got a copy too. It was odd - the two main characters meet in a cemetery. Benny is visiting his mother's grave and Shrimp is at her husband's grave. Their first impressions of one another are not positive. Their relationship grows into a romance that's all wrong. He wants her to move out to the farm with him and help him run his household. She wants him to give up his farm to live with her in the city. She's a librarian, but that wasn't enough to make her a likable character for me. She came across as selfish and inconsiderate. I think Benny's better off without her. Weird book, but I'm glad I read it.
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 209 pages
translated from Swedish by Sarah Death
genre: relationships
Kathy Giesen had this on her kitchen counter and I was curious, so I got a copy too. It was odd - the two main characters meet in a cemetery. Benny is visiting his mother's grave and Shrimp is at her husband's grave. Their first impressions of one another are not positive. Their relationship grows into a romance that's all wrong. He wants her to move out to the farm with him and help him run his household. She wants him to give up his farm to live with her in the city. She's a librarian, but that wasn't enough to make her a likable character for me. She came across as selfish and inconsiderate. I think Benny's better off without her. Weird book, but I'm glad I read it.
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
Omnivore's Dilemma: The Secrets Behind What You Eat
the Young Reader's Edition
by Michael Pollan
adapted by Richie Chevat
PRMS, hardcover, 298 pages
genre: Non-fiction, food science / agribusiness
Wow. This was a very thought-provoking book. It made me happier than ever that we participate in a CSA. And buy our beef from a local farmer. It makes me want to try harder to eat healthier and closer to home. The biggest shocker to me was the power of corn, the corn subsidies, and the fact that cows don't naturally eat corn! Their stomachs deal with a diet of grasses, and being fed corn is part of the agribusiness unnaturalness that this book covers. The author talked about point to point development of food within the industrial, organic industrial, beyond organic, and hunter/gatherer models. Powerful stuff. Makes me think about what I'm eating!
by Michael Pollan
adapted by Richie Chevat
PRMS, hardcover, 298 pages
genre: Non-fiction, food science / agribusiness
Wow. This was a very thought-provoking book. It made me happier than ever that we participate in a CSA. And buy our beef from a local farmer. It makes me want to try harder to eat healthier and closer to home. The biggest shocker to me was the power of corn, the corn subsidies, and the fact that cows don't naturally eat corn! Their stomachs deal with a diet of grasses, and being fed corn is part of the agribusiness unnaturalness that this book covers. The author talked about point to point development of food within the industrial, organic industrial, beyond organic, and hunter/gatherer models. Powerful stuff. Makes me think about what I'm eating!
Hunger Games & Chasing Fire
by Suzanne Collins
PRMS hardbound
genre: YA fantasy adventure
I did a re-read of these two just prior to reading Mockingjay. It really helped me get my brain back around the storylines and the characters. These are well-written books, taut and filled with moral dilemmas. The only thing that bugs me is Katniss' inability to connect and commit to either Gale or Peeta. Wonderful storytelling!
PRMS hardbound
genre: YA fantasy adventure
I did a re-read of these two just prior to reading Mockingjay. It really helped me get my brain back around the storylines and the characters. These are well-written books, taut and filled with moral dilemmas. The only thing that bugs me is Katniss' inability to connect and commit to either Gale or Peeta. Wonderful storytelling!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Well of Lost Plots
by Jasper Fforde
Hennepin County Library, hardcover, 373 pages
genre: SciFi, humor
I didn't like this book quite as well. Thursday goes into a book to take a break from SpecOps, Goliath, and trying to get her husband back. She becomes Bellman in jurisfiction. The mnemonomorph Aornis is messing with Thursday.
Hennepin County Library, hardcover, 373 pages
genre: SciFi, humor
I didn't like this book quite as well. Thursday goes into a book to take a break from SpecOps, Goliath, and trying to get her husband back. She becomes Bellman in jurisfiction. The mnemonomorph Aornis is messing with Thursday.
Lost in a Good Book
by Jasper Fforde
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 399 pages
genre: SciFi, mystery, humor
Loved it! Another clever Thursday Next story in which Landen is eradicated, Thursday joins jurisfiction, and Miss Havisham drives like a lunatic.
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 399 pages
genre: SciFi, mystery, humor
Loved it! Another clever Thursday Next story in which Landen is eradicated, Thursday joins jurisfiction, and Miss Havisham drives like a lunatic.
Deuteronomy
Contemporary English Version
narrated by Jonathan Davis
Hennepin County Library, audioCD
genre: Holy Scripture
I got behind on my reading schedule and decided to use an audio version to "catch up" on some of the Old Testament. I like this translation and the narrator's voice is fantastic. As I drove and listened, though, I found myself wanting to open my Bible and read the text. I hit "reverse" a lot so I could re-listen to passages. If I could afford to, I'd love to have the entire Bible on audio in contemporary English. Then I could spend more time listening to Scripture!
narrated by Jonathan Davis
Hennepin County Library, audioCD
genre: Holy Scripture
I got behind on my reading schedule and decided to use an audio version to "catch up" on some of the Old Testament. I like this translation and the narrator's voice is fantastic. As I drove and listened, though, I found myself wanting to open my Bible and read the text. I hit "reverse" a lot so I could re-listen to passages. If I could afford to, I'd love to have the entire Bible on audio in contemporary English. Then I could spend more time listening to Scripture!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
The Burning Bridge
book two in The Ranger's Apprentice series
by John Flanagan
PRMS, hardcover, 262 pages
Loved this! I missed the wonderful reader's voice and accents from listening to book one, but the story is filled with adventure and a bit of mystery. Morgarath attacks, the rangers are amazing, and the king's daughter Cassandra is in danger. The ending surprised me, since it's a cliffhanger. Now I have to read book three!
<Above published on 8.22.10. Below added 5.16.23.>
Libby ebook
While in Costa Rica, I read book one in/on Libby and immediately checked out book two!
I only bookmarked one passage, but had forgotten that this was a cliffhanger so I hurriedly got book three . . .
Chapter 14: "'Then don't!' Gilan said forcefully. 'Self-doubt is a disease. And if it gets out of control, it becomes self-fulfilling. You have to learn from what happened . . . Use the experience to make you stronger.'"
Gilan is older than Will and was also trained by Halt. Will needs to build his confidence, and Gilan's advice is sound. In this story, Will and Evanlyn are taken by the Skandian raiders who had been mercenaries for Morgarath. Horace has an amazing battle.
These books are so addicting! I went immediately to book three.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Here Burns My Candle
by Lynn Curtis Higgs
Kim C's copy, 454 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction
I don't mind that I missed the book club discussion on this book. I didn't like it. Set in Scotland during the 1745 rebellion, this book is based on the story of Ruth from Scripture. Infidelity, poor communication, unhealthy relationships, etc. This just didn't do it for me. I think everyone else really liked it, but it was the same with Higgs' retelling of Jacob & Esau. This author's style just doesn't inspire me.
Kim C's copy, 454 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction
I don't mind that I missed the book club discussion on this book. I didn't like it. Set in Scotland during the 1745 rebellion, this book is based on the story of Ruth from Scripture. Infidelity, poor communication, unhealthy relationships, etc. This just didn't do it for me. I think everyone else really liked it, but it was the same with Higgs' retelling of Jacob & Esau. This author's style just doesn't inspire me.
Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul
by various authors
paperback from ?, heading to the donation bag, 328 pages
genre: short stories, inspiration
None of the Chicken Soup books are especially grand, but this one was especially drab. I have a few up at the lake (pet lovers, etc.) and sometimes it's nice to read a short story to wind down to sleeping (not that I get wound up at the lake). Sometimes I even tear up at an especially touching story. But this collection was dull, vapid, . . . there may have been a few stories that engaged me as a reader, but it wasn't worth the mind-numbing pablum that the collection represents. Yuk.
paperback from ?, heading to the donation bag, 328 pages
genre: short stories, inspiration
None of the Chicken Soup books are especially grand, but this one was especially drab. I have a few up at the lake (pet lovers, etc.) and sometimes it's nice to read a short story to wind down to sleeping (not that I get wound up at the lake). Sometimes I even tear up at an especially touching story. But this collection was dull, vapid, . . . there may have been a few stories that engaged me as a reader, but it wasn't worth the mind-numbing pablum that the collection represents. Yuk.
The Hundred Secret Senses
by Amy Tan
Mary Verbick's copy, hardcover, 358 pages
genre: relationships, mysticism, Chinese culture
Mary lent this to me quite a while ago, after we had talked at school book club about how depressing so many Chinese stories are. This was when we talked about Shanghai Girls. Though Tan's book is more upbeat, it still made me feel sad. Olivia's frustrations with her mother, Kwan, and Simon were all portrayed very realistically. The writing is beautiful and I found myself drawn in, especially by Kwan's stories of her previous life as Miss Moo. The ending felt unresolved, but hopeful. Kwan was an amazing character, albeit bizarre. I'm glad I read it.
Mary Verbick's copy, hardcover, 358 pages
genre: relationships, mysticism, Chinese culture
Mary lent this to me quite a while ago, after we had talked at school book club about how depressing so many Chinese stories are. This was when we talked about Shanghai Girls. Though Tan's book is more upbeat, it still made me feel sad. Olivia's frustrations with her mother, Kwan, and Simon were all portrayed very realistically. The writing is beautiful and I found myself drawn in, especially by Kwan's stories of her previous life as Miss Moo. The ending felt unresolved, but hopeful. Kwan was an amazing character, albeit bizarre. I'm glad I read it.
Dear Enemy
by Jack Cavanaugh
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 283 pages
genre: historical fiction, Christian inspiration
Wow! What a page-turner. I started this last night and couldn't put it down! This is our church book club title (for next week's discussion). Set in France during WWII (and in California afterward), it tells of nurse Annie Mitchell, her brief marriage with childhood friend Keith, her friendship with Marcy (aka "Mouse"), and her unusual relationship with a German soldier named Karl.
This was well-written. I don't think I've read any of Cavanaugh's books before . . . I need to track down some of his other titles. The only thing that didn't work for me was the lack of explanation for why Karl knew English so well and why he didn't use it for the first day he and Annie were together in the woods. The whole putting-off-the-marriage to Stan part was a bit odd, too, but I liked this story a lot!
I can hardly wait for the discussion. I've missed the last three or four months of it!
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 283 pages
genre: historical fiction, Christian inspiration
Wow! What a page-turner. I started this last night and couldn't put it down! This is our church book club title (for next week's discussion). Set in France during WWII (and in California afterward), it tells of nurse Annie Mitchell, her brief marriage with childhood friend Keith, her friendship with Marcy (aka "Mouse"), and her unusual relationship with a German soldier named Karl.
This was well-written. I don't think I've read any of Cavanaugh's books before . . . I need to track down some of his other titles. The only thing that didn't work for me was the lack of explanation for why Karl knew English so well and why he didn't use it for the first day he and Annie were together in the woods. The whole putting-off-the-marriage to Stan part was a bit odd, too, but I liked this story a lot!
I can hardly wait for the discussion. I've missed the last three or four months of it!
Independence Hall and The White House
by Roland Smith
I.Q. #1 & #2
1 - Caver County Library, paperback, 293 pages
2 - Ben B's copy, hardcover, 256 pages
genre: YA spy fiction
Cliffhanger! Book 2 ends with Malak just having kidnapped the president's daughter, Bethany. The plot is strange, but the storytelling is delightful. Q (short for Quest) is the son of singer Blaze (and an absent guitar player father). When Blaze marries Roger, another musician and songwriter, Q gains an odd stepsister in Angela Tucker. Book one takes place in the week after the wedding. Book two takes place in one day.
Think James Bond or Jason Bourne written for young adolescents. Enjoyable.
I.Q. #1 & #2
1 - Caver County Library, paperback, 293 pages
2 - Ben B's copy, hardcover, 256 pages
genre: YA spy fiction
Cliffhanger! Book 2 ends with Malak just having kidnapped the president's daughter, Bethany. The plot is strange, but the storytelling is delightful. Q (short for Quest) is the son of singer Blaze (and an absent guitar player father). When Blaze marries Roger, another musician and songwriter, Q gains an odd stepsister in Angela Tucker. Book one takes place in the week after the wedding. Book two takes place in one day.
Think James Bond or Jason Bourne written for young adolescents. Enjoyable.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
by Douglas Adams
Carver County Library audioCDs, 6 hours
read by Stephen Fry
genre: SciFi humor
Thanks to Mason, I "re-read" this book that I haven't touched in almost thirty years. Not sure why I enjoyed it enough back then to read the rest (Restaurant at the End of the Universe, So Long and Thanks for All the Fish, and Life the Universe and Everything). It is as stupid as I expected (or stupider? grin). Now I'm really glad I convinced Mason that this wouldn't be a good choice for our eighth grade book club. It's very inane, only occasionally funny, and the ridiculous names just beg the question "Why?"
Zaphod Beeblebrox
Bartislartfast
etc.
Doesn't do it for me. I'm getting rid of all four paperbacks in the next donation box.
The reader, however, was fantastic! Inflection, character voices, etc. were all fantastic.
Carver County Library audioCDs, 6 hours
read by Stephen Fry
genre: SciFi humor
Thanks to Mason, I "re-read" this book that I haven't touched in almost thirty years. Not sure why I enjoyed it enough back then to read the rest (Restaurant at the End of the Universe, So Long and Thanks for All the Fish, and Life the Universe and Everything). It is as stupid as I expected (or stupider? grin). Now I'm really glad I convinced Mason that this wouldn't be a good choice for our eighth grade book club. It's very inane, only occasionally funny, and the ridiculous names just beg the question "Why?"
Zaphod Beeblebrox
Bartislartfast
etc.
Doesn't do it for me. I'm getting rid of all four paperbacks in the next donation box.
The reader, however, was fantastic! Inflection, character voices, etc. were all fantastic.
The Ruins of Gorlan
by John Flanagan
Carver County Library, audioCDs, 7.75 hours
performed by John Keating
genre: YA historical fiction / adventure
Louie and I enjoyed this story of Will, Horace, and the other orphans in book one of The Ranger's Apprentice series. Although Will has always wanted to become a knight / warrior, he is taken in by the ranger Halt (pronounced "Holt" by Keating). Morgarath is the Great Enemy, but he doesn't figure into this story too much. My favorite scene was the reconciliation between Will and Horace. Halt is a wonderful character! Enjoyable story and I got book two from PRMS today.
<Above entered on 8.19.10. Below added 5.16.23.>
Libby ebook
I was looking for a quick read on my phone for a trip to Costa Rica and I grabbed this story. I knew it was a quick, enjoyable book but had forgotten how addicting these are!
Since this was an ebook, I was able to bookmark passages! (As opposed to listening to it . . . )
Chapter 1: "In fact, it was this tendency that often led to trouble between them: Will was yet to learn that having the last word was not always a good idea."
The conflicts between Horace and Will were exacerbated by Will's quick wit and quick tongue. This reminded me of my sister Louise as a teenager. She got into so much trouble with her sassy mouth!
Chapter 4: "Willpower, he thought abstractedly, recognizing the play on the boy's name."
I love that Baron Arald recognized how hard it was for Will to stand before the craftmasters and other orphans and be discussed. Holding back tears when you are upset is hard indeed!
Chapter 16: "Like most cooks, once she had prepared a meal, she had little interest in eating it. Her real pleasure lay in watching others enjoy the results of her work - and listening to their praise."
When one prepares food as an act of love, this is so true! Poor Jenny didn't know why Horace was in a foul mood.
Chapter 22: "But it had his shoulder and body weight and months of suffering and loneliness behind it - the loneliness that only a victim of bullying can know."
Vindication! I love that Horace and Will became friends, but I'm sorry that Horace had to experience some of the cruelty he had dished out to Will when they were children. Horace getting to punch out the chief of his bullies is sweet. Halt made this all work out well.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
King of the Mild Frontier: An ill-advised Autobiography
by Chris Crutcher
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs 4:54
read by the author
What an amazing writer! Crutcher's childhood and youth formed him into the therapist and writer he is now. His candor and humor are engaging. I found myself wanting to write him a letter, thanking him for using his talent to touch people's lives. I've always been a bit gun-shy about having his books in a middle school library (because of the swearing and intense content), but I had students go through Whale Talk enthusiastically. Some of my readers are ready for this. His autobiography will be another easy book-talk for me. Incredible.
5/23/13
Did a re-listen in the car with Louie, Morgan, and Nick on our way back from Alex's wedding. I thought the boys would appreciate some of the "guy" humor and I was right. I don't care for his theology, but he is a wonderful storyteller with an interesting take on life. I can see why he has been successful in his work as a therapist working with people who have anger issues.
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs 4:54
read by the author
What an amazing writer! Crutcher's childhood and youth formed him into the therapist and writer he is now. His candor and humor are engaging. I found myself wanting to write him a letter, thanking him for using his talent to touch people's lives. I've always been a bit gun-shy about having his books in a middle school library (because of the swearing and intense content), but I had students go through Whale Talk enthusiastically. Some of my readers are ready for this. His autobiography will be another easy book-talk for me. Incredible.
5/23/13
Did a re-listen in the car with Louie, Morgan, and Nick on our way back from Alex's wedding. I thought the boys would appreciate some of the "guy" humor and I was right. I don't care for his theology, but he is a wonderful storyteller with an interesting take on life. I can see why he has been successful in his work as a therapist working with people who have anger issues.
Monday, August 09, 2010
The Monk Downstairs
by Tim Farrington
Hennepin County libraries
I also read this one quite a while ago. I'm not sure if we did it for book club at school or if someone just recommended it to me. It was weird - both enjoyable & frustrating. The author's back story has some strong parallels to the characters in the book. I liked the romance, but not all the flaky, New Age-y stuff, especially with the female character's mom.
Hennepin County libraries
I also read this one quite a while ago. I'm not sure if we did it for book club at school or if someone just recommended it to me. It was weird - both enjoyable & frustrating. The author's back story has some strong parallels to the characters in the book. I liked the romance, but not all the flaky, New Age-y stuff, especially with the female character's mom.
Talking to the Dead
by Bonnie Grove (?)
EP library (I think)
genre: Christian fiction
I read this quite a while ago. It was a Spirit of Life book club title. The main character has just lost her husband and is doing some heavy-duty grieving. As she moves (or doesn't move) through life without him, different people bring different things to her. I liked the crazy older gal the best. Her sister's story bothered me the most. As the truth about her relationship with her husband unravels, we got a clearer picture of the reality of her situation. She sees him and talks with him throughout the book - hence the title.
EP library (I think)
genre: Christian fiction
I read this quite a while ago. It was a Spirit of Life book club title. The main character has just lost her husband and is doing some heavy-duty grieving. As she moves (or doesn't move) through life without him, different people bring different things to her. I liked the crazy older gal the best. Her sister's story bothered me the most. As the truth about her relationship with her husband unravels, we got a clearer picture of the reality of her situation. She sees him and talks with him throughout the book - hence the title.
Saturday, August 07, 2010
The Mountain Between Us
by Charles Martin
Hennepin County Library audioCDs, 10 hours
read by George Newbern
genre: "Women's Fiction" - chicklit?
Dr. Ben Payne & reporter Ashley Knox end up taking a charter flight together to avoid a storm that will snow them into Salt Lake City. The pilot has a heart attack and the two passengers are stranded in the mountains with severe injuries. As they fight for their lives, Ben's relationship with his wife Rachel is unfolded in a series of tape recordings that he makes for her.
This was disappointing to me since I really love Martin's other books that I've read. It comes to close to Nicholas Sparks' style and his stuff is way too maudlin for me. I liked Grover (the pilot) and some of the survival stuff. But on a relationship level, I thought this book was a big disappointment.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs, 10 hours
read by George Newbern
genre: "Women's Fiction" - chicklit?
Dr. Ben Payne & reporter Ashley Knox end up taking a charter flight together to avoid a storm that will snow them into Salt Lake City. The pilot has a heart attack and the two passengers are stranded in the mountains with severe injuries. As they fight for their lives, Ben's relationship with his wife Rachel is unfolded in a series of tape recordings that he makes for her.
This was disappointing to me since I really love Martin's other books that I've read. It comes to close to Nicholas Sparks' style and his stuff is way too maudlin for me. I liked Grover (the pilot) and some of the survival stuff. But on a relationship level, I thought this book was a big disappointment.
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
The Eyre Affair
by Jasper Fforde
my copy paperback 374 pages
genre: British mystery with lots of humor and clever wordplay
Yes! I had first listened to a Fforde story a few years ago and was torn between "this is too bizarre" and "I love this!" When I saw this book in a library book sale, I snatched it up. This is book number one in the series about Thursday Next and Spec-Ops. Guess what's on my reading list now??? These stories are very, very odd, with people going into and coming out of books. There's time travel and a host of other strange stuff happening but they are super-clever and fun to read!
my copy paperback 374 pages
genre: British mystery with lots of humor and clever wordplay
Yes! I had first listened to a Fforde story a few years ago and was torn between "this is too bizarre" and "I love this!" When I saw this book in a library book sale, I snatched it up. This is book number one in the series about Thursday Next and Spec-Ops. Guess what's on my reading list now??? These stories are very, very odd, with people going into and coming out of books. There's time travel and a host of other strange stuff happening but they are super-clever and fun to read!
Journey to the Center of the Earth
by Jules Verne
audioCDs read by Simon Prebble
Nick and I listened to this on our road trip to see the U of MN solar car team. It was fun, but not my favorite Verne story. Nick and I both laughed at some of the scientific info in it . . . fun theories (and how do we really know what's in the earth's interior???)
audioCDs read by Simon Prebble
Nick and I listened to this on our road trip to see the U of MN solar car team. It was fun, but not my favorite Verne story. Nick and I both laughed at some of the scientific info in it . . . fun theories (and how do we really know what's in the earth's interior???)
Fearless Fourteen
by Janet Evanovich
AudioCDs read by Lorelei King
genre: humorous detective story
Listened to this with Louise in June when we went to the quilt show. Laugh-out-loud funny writing. A bit crude, but an enjoyable story. Lula and grandma were the funniest. Zeke is a teenager whose mom needs to be bonded out after she robs a liquor store. While the bonding is on hold, our detective takes responsibility for the gamer and a host of other odd characters.
AudioCDs read by Lorelei King
genre: humorous detective story
Listened to this with Louise in June when we went to the quilt show. Laugh-out-loud funny writing. A bit crude, but an enjoyable story. Lula and grandma were the funniest. Zeke is a teenager whose mom needs to be bonded out after she robs a liquor store. While the bonding is on hold, our detective takes responsibility for the gamer and a host of other odd characters.
The Mouse that Roared: Disney and the End of Innocence
by Henry A. Giroux
PRMS hardcover 173 pages
genre: social analysis
I picked this up from school in the spring shortly after I had read the other book on Walt Disney. It took me 'til last month to start reading this. I ended up just doing a skim-read because it was so dry. It seemed more like a research paper than compelling non-fiction. His premise is that Disney is the "world's most influential" corporation in terms of cultural practices. He argues that in the guise of promoting innocent fun for kids, Disney has actually created children-as-consumers. This just didn't do it for me. And it definitely isn't going to work for my middle school readers. I have a "delete & donate" sticky on it for back-to-school time.
PRMS hardcover 173 pages
genre: social analysis
I picked this up from school in the spring shortly after I had read the other book on Walt Disney. It took me 'til last month to start reading this. I ended up just doing a skim-read because it was so dry. It seemed more like a research paper than compelling non-fiction. His premise is that Disney is the "world's most influential" corporation in terms of cultural practices. He argues that in the guise of promoting innocent fun for kids, Disney has actually created children-as-consumers. This just didn't do it for me. And it definitely isn't going to work for my middle school readers. I have a "delete & donate" sticky on it for back-to-school time.
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing: Traitor to the Nation
by M.T. Anderson
subtitled: Volume One - The Pox Party
Carver County Library, AudioCDs 8:19
read by Peter Francis James
This is one of those books that I "had" to read. I've read so many positive reviews of it that I just couldn't ignore it. It's an amazing book that I absolutely hated. James' voice is fantastic and he brought the story to life vividly. Unfortunately, it's a story of evil and hypocrisy. The members of the "Novanglian College of Lucidity" are testing a hypothesis about the inferiority of blacks in Revolutionary America. Octavian is their subject. He and his mother are treated royally in some regards, but the evils of racism and intellectual arrogance shine through. Ultimately, this is an incredible, haunting story that made me think. But I didn't enjoy the story.
subtitled: Volume One - The Pox Party
Carver County Library, AudioCDs 8:19
read by Peter Francis James
This is one of those books that I "had" to read. I've read so many positive reviews of it that I just couldn't ignore it. It's an amazing book that I absolutely hated. James' voice is fantastic and he brought the story to life vividly. Unfortunately, it's a story of evil and hypocrisy. The members of the "Novanglian College of Lucidity" are testing a hypothesis about the inferiority of blacks in Revolutionary America. Octavian is their subject. He and his mother are treated royally in some regards, but the evils of racism and intellectual arrogance shine through. Ultimately, this is an incredible, haunting story that made me think. But I didn't enjoy the story.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Black Duck
by Janet Taylor Lisle
Carver County Library, audioCDs, 5.5 hours
read by David Ackroyd
genre: YA historical fiction, adventure
One of the 2010-11 MHL nominees, but I'm not sure I'll promote MHL this year . . . This was a good story and well-read, but I think I'd have enjoyed it more just reading the text myself. Two boys discover a dead body on a local New England beach during Prohibition. Jeddy, the son of the police chief, and Ruben are both drawn into the rum-running business, but in different ways. Their lives and friendship never recover. Tom Morrison was my favorite character. The story is told through an old Ruben Hart relating the tale to aspiring writer David.
Interesting! My memory of Black Duck was "not impressed." Then when I was subbing last month, I re-read the first five or so chapters to be ready for a group of students I was going to have that day. I found myself so engaged with the story that I checked a copy out yesterday and finished reading it in print. I really liked it! (It isn't that I think Dan Ackroyd did a bad job with the vocal work, necessarily; I think it's more that I enjoyed the text without his interpretation of the characters.)
This time around, I liked David helping elderly Ruben with his yard work. A lot of the ethical considerations of the Prohibition era also resonated for me (especially in light of the current political and social climate).
Page 12 Ruben is defending his dad's honor. I love how each of the boys believed the best about their dads, but am sad that their friendship was fractured by loyalties. (I had made a note when I subbed about "commerce and greed" but don't know what passage it referred to . . . different editions have different paginations. Ah well.
Page 145 "He must make ten times on smuggling what I clear in legal sales in a month. It's money, not law, that speaks loudest to him." Sad but true for many people. Ruben's dad is referring to Mr. Riley here. " Later that page: "It seemed unfair that a man of my dad's worth should be forced to go against his moral conscience in order to keep his job. That wasn't something that should be asked of anyone, I thought, and I was amazed that my mother would advise such a thing."
Page 217 Tom - my favorite character! "'I'm lifting my finger in the direction of peace and quiet,' Tom replied. 'Money's no answer to what's needed in my life.'" I love it when people value better things than money!
Page 237 - "There are times when truth becomes invisible, I think, beyond the reach even of those who believe they're closest to it." Again, this makes me think of the current cultural climate and it makes me sad.
Carver County Library, audioCDs, 5.5 hours
read by David Ackroyd
genre: YA historical fiction, adventure
One of the 2010-11 MHL nominees, but I'm not sure I'll promote MHL this year . . . This was a good story and well-read, but I think I'd have enjoyed it more just reading the text myself. Two boys discover a dead body on a local New England beach during Prohibition. Jeddy, the son of the police chief, and Ruben are both drawn into the rum-running business, but in different ways. Their lives and friendship never recover. Tom Morrison was my favorite character. The story is told through an old Ruben Hart relating the tale to aspiring writer David.
Interesting! My memory of Black Duck was "not impressed." Then when I was subbing last month, I re-read the first five or so chapters to be ready for a group of students I was going to have that day. I found myself so engaged with the story that I checked a copy out yesterday and finished reading it in print. I really liked it! (It isn't that I think Dan Ackroyd did a bad job with the vocal work, necessarily; I think it's more that I enjoyed the text without his interpretation of the characters.)
This time around, I liked David helping elderly Ruben with his yard work. A lot of the ethical considerations of the Prohibition era also resonated for me (especially in light of the current political and social climate).
Page 12 Ruben is defending his dad's honor. I love how each of the boys believed the best about their dads, but am sad that their friendship was fractured by loyalties. (I had made a note when I subbed about "commerce and greed" but don't know what passage it referred to . . . different editions have different paginations. Ah well.
Page 145 "He must make ten times on smuggling what I clear in legal sales in a month. It's money, not law, that speaks loudest to him." Sad but true for many people. Ruben's dad is referring to Mr. Riley here. " Later that page: "It seemed unfair that a man of my dad's worth should be forced to go against his moral conscience in order to keep his job. That wasn't something that should be asked of anyone, I thought, and I was amazed that my mother would advise such a thing."
Page 217 Tom - my favorite character! "'I'm lifting my finger in the direction of peace and quiet,' Tom replied. 'Money's no answer to what's needed in my life.'" I love it when people value better things than money!
Page 237 - "There are times when truth becomes invisible, I think, beyond the reach even of those who believe they're closest to it." Again, this makes me think of the current cultural climate and it makes me sad.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Plum Lovin'
by Janet Evanovich
subtitled "A Stephanie Plum Between-the-Numbers" novel
Hennepin County, audioCDs 3 hours
read by Lorelei King
Glad this was short - shouldn't have spent the time. Cruder than usual, didn't make me laugh out loud. King does a fantastic job with the voices and really brings the characters to life. The story just didn't do it for me. Stephanie teams up with Diesel, yet another sexy man in her life, to find the bad guy and bring romance into hapless lives in time for Valentine's day.
subtitled "A Stephanie Plum Between-the-Numbers" novel
Hennepin County, audioCDs 3 hours
read by Lorelei King
Glad this was short - shouldn't have spent the time. Cruder than usual, didn't make me laugh out loud. King does a fantastic job with the voices and really brings the characters to life. The story just didn't do it for me. Stephanie teams up with Diesel, yet another sexy man in her life, to find the bad guy and bring romance into hapless lives in time for Valentine's day.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
The Help
by Kathryn Stockett
Jenifer's copy, hardcover, 451 pages
PRMS book club title for May(?) - What an incredible book! I'm so glad we decided to read this one, even though I missed part of the discussion. As I read the first few chapters, I had to flip to the back jacket to see who the author was. A white woman! Incredible first novel. The story is told from the perspectives of three women in 1962. Mississippi and the growing civil rights movement create a realistic, turbulent location for Aibilene and Minny - aka "The Help" of the story. Skeeter's growing awareness of the chasm between her world and the world of these women made me think of we all have something of a blind eye for situations that we don't necessarily want to think about. Powerful book, but painful too. I loved it.
I'm such a dork that I wanted Celia and Johnny to take Minny and her kids in to their huge house! I'm such a Pollyanna sometimes . . .
This was blogged on 7/11/10 and I just listened to the audiobook. I love this story! And I strongly dislike the reality it represents in a fictional manner. The vocal work was done by Jenna Lamia (Skeeter), Bahni Turpin (Aibileen), Octavia Spencer (Minny), and Cassandra Campbell (additional narration). The audiobook brings to life the joy, pain, irony, and nuance of 1962 Jackson, Mississippi. I am still amazed at the power of this story.
Jenifer's copy, hardcover, 451 pages
PRMS book club title for May(?) - What an incredible book! I'm so glad we decided to read this one, even though I missed part of the discussion. As I read the first few chapters, I had to flip to the back jacket to see who the author was. A white woman! Incredible first novel. The story is told from the perspectives of three women in 1962. Mississippi and the growing civil rights movement create a realistic, turbulent location for Aibilene and Minny - aka "The Help" of the story. Skeeter's growing awareness of the chasm between her world and the world of these women made me think of we all have something of a blind eye for situations that we don't necessarily want to think about. Powerful book, but painful too. I loved it.
I'm such a dork that I wanted Celia and Johnny to take Minny and her kids in to their huge house! I'm such a Pollyanna sometimes . . .
This was blogged on 7/11/10 and I just listened to the audiobook. I love this story! And I strongly dislike the reality it represents in a fictional manner. The vocal work was done by Jenna Lamia (Skeeter), Bahni Turpin (Aibileen), Octavia Spencer (Minny), and Cassandra Campbell (additional narration). The audiobook brings to life the joy, pain, irony, and nuance of 1962 Jackson, Mississippi. I am still amazed at the power of this story.
The Love Revolution
by Joyce Meyer
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 8 hours
read by Sandra McCollom (Joyce's daughter)
genre: Christian living / inspirational
This took me a while to "get into" - I think I might actually enjoyed reading the text more than listening. Joyce's teaching is really powerful, though. There were times when I listened to just the right concept at the right time. I love how she uses Scripture for her basis of teaching - that's why it's so powerful. If all Christians truly loved the way Jesus taught us to, it would revolutionize the world. This is one I wouldn't mind owning - the teachings are that meaningful. I would love to be part of the revolution that changes the world through Jesus' love!
Hennepin County Library, audioCDs, 8 hours
read by Sandra McCollom (Joyce's daughter)
genre: Christian living / inspirational
This took me a while to "get into" - I think I might actually enjoyed reading the text more than listening. Joyce's teaching is really powerful, though. There were times when I listened to just the right concept at the right time. I love how she uses Scripture for her basis of teaching - that's why it's so powerful. If all Christians truly loved the way Jesus taught us to, it would revolutionize the world. This is one I wouldn't mind owning - the teachings are that meaningful. I would love to be part of the revolution that changes the world through Jesus' love!
Friday, July 09, 2010
Her Mother's Hope
by Francine Rivers
Kim C's copy, hardcover, 483 pages
genre: Christian fiction, relationships, historical fiction
This was a very engaging book. My big frustration was with the main character, Marta, not talking with her husband or her daughter Hildemara about her childhood, her dad, her sister Elise. I wish I'd been able to go to the discussion for book club. It sounds as though they had a great conversation about mothers and daughters and the relationships that can get sticky. Communication is such a key!
Overall, I enjoyed this story of Marta overcoming horrible odds to be successful. I just thought she turned too bitter and nasty after she got married. Hildemara was a delightful character. The scene that really hit me hard was when her cruel teacher overheard her telling her sister about praying for the teacher. Powerful!
Kim C's copy, hardcover, 483 pages
genre: Christian fiction, relationships, historical fiction
This was a very engaging book. My big frustration was with the main character, Marta, not talking with her husband or her daughter Hildemara about her childhood, her dad, her sister Elise. I wish I'd been able to go to the discussion for book club. It sounds as though they had a great conversation about mothers and daughters and the relationships that can get sticky. Communication is such a key!
Overall, I enjoyed this story of Marta overcoming horrible odds to be successful. I just thought she turned too bitter and nasty after she got married. Hildemara was a delightful character. The scene that really hit me hard was when her cruel teacher overheard her telling her sister about praying for the teacher. Powerful!
Keeping Up!
Wow. I haven't really read a lot lately, but definitely more than I've blogged! I'm going to play catchup and apologize in advance for the lack of quality and thought. I'm in "get-r-done" mode.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
The House That Cleans Itself
by Mindy Starns Clark
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 234 pages
genre: self-help / housekeeping
I am torn between wanting to buy a copy of this book and just starting with the notes I've made to see how it goes. I will be gone too much in the next few weeks to start this system. I love her tone and the fact that she struggled for a long time with the clutter and lack of cleanliness that I am dealing with. I'm not sure I'm ready to tackle this, though. It will take time to go through the whole house and change how we do things. By the end of the book, I thought, "well, we're not THAT bad around here." But I recognize that we have too much clutter and we need to make some changes so our house is more enjoyable. I may be checking this one out again. Or simply buying a copy.
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 234 pages
genre: self-help / housekeeping
I am torn between wanting to buy a copy of this book and just starting with the notes I've made to see how it goes. I will be gone too much in the next few weeks to start this system. I love her tone and the fact that she struggled for a long time with the clutter and lack of cleanliness that I am dealing with. I'm not sure I'm ready to tackle this, though. It will take time to go through the whole house and change how we do things. By the end of the book, I thought, "well, we're not THAT bad around here." But I recognize that we have too much clutter and we need to make some changes so our house is more enjoyable. I may be checking this one out again. Or simply buying a copy.
The Fallen
volume one in "The Nine Lives of Chloe King" series
by Celia Thomson
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 250 pages
genre: YA paranormal romance
A very intelligent young lady highly recommended this to me. She is an avid reader and I eagerly picked this up to see what she was enjoying so much. I'm not sure why she recommended it so highly. The sexual innuendo? The risky behaviors? The slight mystery of why Chloe seems to be turning into a cat? I found it abrupt, poorly developed, and ultimately pointless. I have no empathy for Chloe or her friends, Amy and Paul. I certainly don't care about Xaviyer, Brian, or Aleyc. I do care that a young woman I have a good opinion of is raving about a book with such careless teen use of alcohol, swearing, dishonesty, and sex . . . but I probably won't see her to tell her what I really think of this book. I won't be reading the rest of this series!!!
by Celia Thomson
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 250 pages
genre: YA paranormal romance
A very intelligent young lady highly recommended this to me. She is an avid reader and I eagerly picked this up to see what she was enjoying so much. I'm not sure why she recommended it so highly. The sexual innuendo? The risky behaviors? The slight mystery of why Chloe seems to be turning into a cat? I found it abrupt, poorly developed, and ultimately pointless. I have no empathy for Chloe or her friends, Amy and Paul. I certainly don't care about Xaviyer, Brian, or Aleyc. I do care that a young woman I have a good opinion of is raving about a book with such careless teen use of alcohol, swearing, dishonesty, and sex . . . but I probably won't see her to tell her what I really think of this book. I won't be reading the rest of this series!!!
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
Airborn
by Kenneth Oppel
Hennepin County Library audiobook 10.5 hours
genre: YA adventure
This was a re-read. Loved it! Except that Kate was really irritating (author's portrayal, not the voice talent). I enjoyed the full-cast audio. It was very rich and enjoyable. Matt Cruse is a wonderful hero. This is a delightful story with good and evil, plenty of heroics, and a touch of first romance.
Hennepin County Library audiobook 10.5 hours
genre: YA adventure
This was a re-read. Loved it! Except that Kate was really irritating (author's portrayal, not the voice talent). I enjoyed the full-cast audio. It was very rich and enjoyable. Matt Cruse is a wonderful hero. This is a delightful story with good and evil, plenty of heroics, and a touch of first romance.
Airman
by Eoin Colfer
PRMS hardcover 412 pages
genre: YA adventure, historical
This took me a loooong time to get through. Conor Broekhart has a fascination with flying. Set in the late 1890s on the Saltee islands, we see Conor's birth, childhood, downfall, imprisonment, and triumph (naturally). I ended up enjoying it, but it took a while for the story to develop enough for me to care.
PRMS hardcover 412 pages
genre: YA adventure, historical
This took me a loooong time to get through. Conor Broekhart has a fascination with flying. Set in the late 1890s on the Saltee islands, we see Conor's birth, childhood, downfall, imprisonment, and triumph (naturally). I ended up enjoying it, but it took a while for the story to develop enough for me to care.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Dovey Coe
by Frances O'Roark Dowell
PRMS, hardcover, 181 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age, mystery
Dovey Coe is a smart-mouthed Appalachian girl whose older sister Caroline is a true beauty. The wealthy town bully, Parnell Caraway, starts wooing Caroline as she's preparing to go to teacher's college. Dovey is fit to be tied! Along with her deaf mute brother Amos, she prefers trekking all over the mountains, hunting and gathering plants, to any social activity.
This is a re-read for me (though I missed the seventh grade book club discussion last Thursday). I remember not having been impressed with this story the first time I read it, but not why. In re-reading it, I think part of my issue is how quickly the story resolves once Parnell dies. The seriousness of his death is only briefly mentioned, as Dovey realizes that his sister Paris and his mother are sad that he's gone. Even her relationship with Amos doesn't seem to be a strong enough thread to hold the story together.
PRMS, hardcover, 181 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age, mystery
Dovey Coe is a smart-mouthed Appalachian girl whose older sister Caroline is a true beauty. The wealthy town bully, Parnell Caraway, starts wooing Caroline as she's preparing to go to teacher's college. Dovey is fit to be tied! Along with her deaf mute brother Amos, she prefers trekking all over the mountains, hunting and gathering plants, to any social activity.
This is a re-read for me (though I missed the seventh grade book club discussion last Thursday). I remember not having been impressed with this story the first time I read it, but not why. In re-reading it, I think part of my issue is how quickly the story resolves once Parnell dies. The seriousness of his death is only briefly mentioned, as Dovey realizes that his sister Paris and his mother are sad that he's gone. Even her relationship with Amos doesn't seem to be a strong enough thread to hold the story together.
Shanghai Girls
by Lisa See
PRMS paperback 309 pages
genre: historical fiction, China, relationships
I finally finished this, even though the book club discussion was last week . . . it was a sad story, filled with sorrow and disappointment. I think the thing that shocked me most was seeing the picture of the author on the back page. She doesn't look oriental at all! I definitely empathized more with Pearl. May just seemed too selfish and shallow. Sam was my favorite character, though, and his story most resonated for me. What a powerful story!
The above was written on 5/24/10. I added the notes below in spring 2017.
I grabbed the audiobook because I didn't remember the details of the story and enjoyed the vocal work by Janet Song on this. WARNING: There are spoilers in my notes!!!
PRMS paperback 309 pages
genre: historical fiction, China, relationships
I finally finished this, even though the book club discussion was last week . . . it was a sad story, filled with sorrow and disappointment. I think the thing that shocked me most was seeing the picture of the author on the back page. She doesn't look oriental at all! I definitely empathized more with Pearl. May just seemed too selfish and shallow. Sam was my favorite character, though, and his story most resonated for me. What a powerful story!
The above was written on 5/24/10. I added the notes below in spring 2017.
I grabbed the audiobook because I didn't remember the details of the story and enjoyed the vocal work by Janet Song on this. WARNING: There are spoilers in my notes!!!
- Pearl is so sad, she feels so unworthy
- the Japanese - murdered the wheelbarrow puller, raped Mam. No, Pearl! Stay in hiding! Mom's strength - wow. so sad.
- "What can I do?" This got old after a while - Pearl is such a victim. (What did I think of this the first time I read it? My notes above don't indicate.)
- arranged marriages . . . Sam is a good guy, but Vern is only 14 years old! And he has issues . . .
- conversation with Sam and Pearl - the honesty and closeness - I loved this!
- "None of that Jesus thinking sank into us." - Pearl's observations of the missionaries in Shanghai and how her family got what they wanted without buying in to the beliefs.
- white - the color of death
- Sam's suicide . . . devastating.
- perceptions / jealousy, victimhood, accusations, honesty, built-up resentments
- ending - what?!?! Pearl is going to Red China to find Joy? Ugh!
- Sisters' story, really.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Oggie Cooder
by Sarah Weeks
PRMS paperback 172 pages
YA friendship / self-esteem
Oggie is a fourth-grade boy with thrift store clothing and a strange talent: he charves (chews / carves) processed cheese. This story is cute and has a good lesson about being yourself. The characters are mostly stereotypes, but Oggie himself is an anachronism. Pretty young for middle school, but might appeal to some sixth graders.
PRMS paperback 172 pages
YA friendship / self-esteem
Oggie is a fourth-grade boy with thrift store clothing and a strange talent: he charves (chews / carves) processed cheese. This story is cute and has a good lesson about being yourself. The characters are mostly stereotypes, but Oggie himself is an anachronism. Pretty young for middle school, but might appeal to some sixth graders.
Monday, May 10, 2010
The School Story
by Andrew Clements
Hennepin County Library, audioCD 3:18
read by Spencer Kayden
genre: YA kid empowerment
Cute story, but definitely an older elementary title. The protagonists are sixth graders and I think this book will appeal to third through sixth graders. Natalie Nelson is a talented writer who is working on a novel called The Cheater. Her best friend Zoe thinks it is good enough to be published, and is strong-willed enough to make it happen. The two girls overcome many obstacles and learn a lot along the way. Enjoyable story - Clements is good at these!
Kayden's narration is very good - easy to listen to, and nice character distinction.
Hennepin County Library, audioCD 3:18
read by Spencer Kayden
genre: YA kid empowerment
Cute story, but definitely an older elementary title. The protagonists are sixth graders and I think this book will appeal to third through sixth graders. Natalie Nelson is a talented writer who is working on a novel called The Cheater. Her best friend Zoe thinks it is good enough to be published, and is strong-willed enough to make it happen. The two girls overcome many obstacles and learn a lot along the way. Enjoyable story - Clements is good at these!
Kayden's narration is very good - easy to listen to, and nice character distinction.
The Radioactive Boy Scout
by Ken Silverstein
subtitled: The Frightening True Story of a Whiz Kid and His Homemade Nuclear Reactor
PRMS hardcover 203 pages
genre: biography, science
Wow. It's scary how much this story makes me think of my son Alex. I don't think he would go this far. It would be really interesting to have him read this book and give me his perspective. David Hahn was fascinated by chemistry, atomic energy, experimenting, and science in general. The fact that he got so far on his own is stunning. With some guidance and direction, he probably could have been a successful scientist. I wish he hadn't backed out of the full-body scan. I'm curious about how much radiation is in his body. What a scary, fascinating story.
subtitled: The Frightening True Story of a Whiz Kid and His Homemade Nuclear Reactor
PRMS hardcover 203 pages
genre: biography, science
Wow. It's scary how much this story makes me think of my son Alex. I don't think he would go this far. It would be really interesting to have him read this book and give me his perspective. David Hahn was fascinated by chemistry, atomic energy, experimenting, and science in general. The fact that he got so far on his own is stunning. With some guidance and direction, he probably could have been a successful scientist. I wish he hadn't backed out of the full-body scan. I'm curious about how much radiation is in his body. What a scary, fascinating story.
Remember Me: Women & Their Friendship Quilts
by Linda Otto Lipsett
loaned by Mary Verbick, paperback 135 pages
genre: history / quilting
The women featured in this book had records left behind - their signed friendship quilts, but also letters and photographs handed down. Their stories are fascinating, but it makes me think of how many people have left no record at all. The popularity of friendship quilts gave interesting insight into people's lives in the 1800s. The women who lost husbands in the Civil War struck me the most. Raising children alone in relative prairie and not even knowing if your spouse was alive or not - horrible! What an interesting book, though not strong in a narrative sense.
loaned by Mary Verbick, paperback 135 pages
genre: history / quilting
The women featured in this book had records left behind - their signed friendship quilts, but also letters and photographs handed down. Their stories are fascinating, but it makes me think of how many people have left no record at all. The popularity of friendship quilts gave interesting insight into people's lives in the 1800s. The women who lost husbands in the Civil War struck me the most. Raising children alone in relative prairie and not even knowing if your spouse was alive or not - horrible! What an interesting book, though not strong in a narrative sense.
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
Loving Will Shakespeare
by Carolyn Meyer
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6.5 hours
read by Katherine Kellgren
Interesting premise - since we know so little about William Shakespeare and his wife Anne Hathaway, what might their relationship have been like? But this story disappointed me. It felt as though it took forever to build to a climax and then was over far too quickly. What a sad story. My favorite part was the budding romance between Agnes and Will. I liked when she had words with Joan and Joan Little.
It would be interesting to include this title with the middle ages books that Sarah is having kids read. Some of the historical details were truly interesting. Overall, though, I wouldn't recommend this to my middle school readers.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6.5 hours
read by Katherine Kellgren
Interesting premise - since we know so little about William Shakespeare and his wife Anne Hathaway, what might their relationship have been like? But this story disappointed me. It felt as though it took forever to build to a climax and then was over far too quickly. What a sad story. My favorite part was the budding romance between Agnes and Will. I liked when she had words with Joan and Joan Little.
It would be interesting to include this title with the middle ages books that Sarah is having kids read. Some of the historical details were truly interesting. Overall, though, I wouldn't recommend this to my middle school readers.
Rowan Hood: Outlaw Girl of Sherwood Forest
by Nancy Springer
Hennepin County Library, audioCD 4 hours
read by Emily Gray
genre: YA adventure, magic
Rowan's mother has just been murdered and she sets out to find her famous father, Robin Hood. Only he doesn't know she exists . . . There were parts of this story that were very enjoyable and parts that were exasperating. Too much preteen girl angst. It was funny listening to it with Louise and Ann on our quilting weekend. They were yelling at the stereo as I had, "Just tell him!" This will be a good book to recommend to 6th grade girls who like fantasy and adventure stories.
Hennepin County Library, audioCD 4 hours
read by Emily Gray
genre: YA adventure, magic
Rowan's mother has just been murdered and she sets out to find her famous father, Robin Hood. Only he doesn't know she exists . . . There were parts of this story that were very enjoyable and parts that were exasperating. Too much preteen girl angst. It was funny listening to it with Louise and Ann on our quilting weekend. They were yelling at the stereo as I had, "Just tell him!" This will be a good book to recommend to 6th grade girls who like fantasy and adventure stories.
Stolen in the Night
by Patricia MacDonald
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 374 pages
genre: murder mystery
I'm not actually done with this one yet, but I've exceeded maximum checkouts. I started by getting this on CD for my dad. He enjoyed it but couldn't finish because the CDs were so scratched. So I checked it out and started reading aloud. Then he went to Florida. I had the brilliant idea of reading it and saving as mp3 files. . . I'm only on chapter 11 and it's been months. I'm going to bite the bullet and just buy a copy of it.
So far, I'm frustrated by the paradox: was the DNA test wrong or did she identify the wrong person? I love that Ernie just brought up another possibility: someone different from the abductor committed the murder. Cue creepy music. I really want to see how this ends!
Hennepin County Library, paperback, 374 pages
genre: murder mystery
I'm not actually done with this one yet, but I've exceeded maximum checkouts. I started by getting this on CD for my dad. He enjoyed it but couldn't finish because the CDs were so scratched. So I checked it out and started reading aloud. Then he went to Florida. I had the brilliant idea of reading it and saving as mp3 files. . . I'm only on chapter 11 and it's been months. I'm going to bite the bullet and just buy a copy of it.
So far, I'm frustrated by the paradox: was the DNA test wrong or did she identify the wrong person? I love that Ernie just brought up another possibility: someone different from the abductor committed the murder. Cue creepy music. I really want to see how this ends!
Monday, May 03, 2010
Nation
by Terry Pratchett
PRMS paperback 367 pages + afterword
genre: adventure, philosophy
Very interesting book! The story of Mau and Daphne, being a child and becoming an adult. A giant wave that wipes out a village and a shipful of people. Belief, religion, relationships, good & evil. I wish I had read this in time to talk about it with the book club! It has a lot going on in it!
PRMS paperback 367 pages + afterword
genre: adventure, philosophy
Very interesting book! The story of Mau and Daphne, being a child and becoming an adult. A giant wave that wipes out a village and a shipful of people. Belief, religion, relationships, good & evil. I wish I had read this in time to talk about it with the book club! It has a lot going on in it!
The Blind Side
by Michael Lewis
PRMS paperback 339 pages
genre: sports biography
This telling of Michael Oher's life story was fascinating. Now I'm ready to see the movie! And I'm curious to know more. As the author points out in the afterward, he was too impatient to wait to see how Michael's story turns out. This young man went from a homeless, uneducated teenager to a member of a wealthy white family who was courted by many football programs. The Duohy family made such a huge difference in his life! The historical info on football was less interesting to me, though some of it amazed me. I didn't really know who Lawrence Taylor was, but for one man to impact the game so much is incredible. What an intriguing story. Kudos to the author's wife for pointing out that it was a story that needed to be told! Miss Sue is my favorite person in this story - the educator.
PRMS paperback 339 pages
genre: sports biography
This telling of Michael Oher's life story was fascinating. Now I'm ready to see the movie! And I'm curious to know more. As the author points out in the afterward, he was too impatient to wait to see how Michael's story turns out. This young man went from a homeless, uneducated teenager to a member of a wealthy white family who was courted by many football programs. The Duohy family made such a huge difference in his life! The historical info on football was less interesting to me, though some of it amazed me. I didn't really know who Lawrence Taylor was, but for one man to impact the game so much is incredible. What an intriguing story. Kudos to the author's wife for pointing out that it was a story that needed to be told! Miss Sue is my favorite person in this story - the educator.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Whale Talk
by Chris Crutcher
Hennepin County Library, audioCD, 6:32
read by Brian Corrigan
I just noticed on the back that this audiobook is recommended for ages "10 and up" - seriously?!? It's another powerful Crutcher story, well-written and intense. But the language is vintage Crutcher - lots of swearing, including liberal use of the F-word. The language shouldn't deter teen or adult readers, though. There is an incredible story of power, morality, family, and honor.
TJ is a complex character - powerful athlete who won't play on school teams because he won't buy in to the "jocks rule" mentality. A mixed-race boy in a mostly white community, his adoptive parents and his counselor Georgia have helped him tame the rage that he learned early in his young life. A decent, good person, TJ tries to make a point with the newly formed swim team.
What an incredible story! This one was easy to booktalk to 8th graders (part of their coming-of-age and making-a-difference literature circles). I loved it!
Hennepin County Library, audioCD, 6:32
read by Brian Corrigan
I just noticed on the back that this audiobook is recommended for ages "10 and up" - seriously?!? It's another powerful Crutcher story, well-written and intense. But the language is vintage Crutcher - lots of swearing, including liberal use of the F-word. The language shouldn't deter teen or adult readers, though. There is an incredible story of power, morality, family, and honor.
TJ is a complex character - powerful athlete who won't play on school teams because he won't buy in to the "jocks rule" mentality. A mixed-race boy in a mostly white community, his adoptive parents and his counselor Georgia have helped him tame the rage that he learned early in his young life. A decent, good person, TJ tries to make a point with the newly formed swim team.
What an incredible story! This one was easy to booktalk to 8th graders (part of their coming-of-age and making-a-difference literature circles). I loved it!
Monday, April 05, 2010
Kim
by Rudyard Kipling
Hennepin County Library audioCD 10.5 hours
read by Ralph Cosham
genre: historical fiction / classic literature / adventure
I don't think I would have ever read this text cover-to-cover. I was curious about this legendary Kipling story, but I struggled to finish it even in audio version. The narrator was wonderful, but the story meandered too much for me. There was a lot of it that I missed because the names and some of the ideas just didn't sink in. I think I'll just summarize here by copying from the back flap:
"Kimball O'Hara is . . . (covered by barcode) . . . streets of India. As a boy, he shows self-reliance and resourcefulness, running errands for Mahbub Ali, who works for the British Secret Service. Kim also meets a Tibetan lama who is on a quest to be freed from the Wheel of Life and becomes his disciple. Together they have wonderful adventures on the exotically colorful Grand Trunk Road through the Indian countryside. Then Kim is pulled into the great game of British imperial espionage and becomes a member of the Secret Service, even capturing documents from the enemy spies. Yet Kim is greatly attached to the lama and begins to feel the conflicting pulls between a life of contemplation and one of action."
I don't regret reading it, but it wasn't one that I enjoyed a lot. Kim, along with The Life of Pi, and one other that I read in the past year that is set in India (Ann's book club title . . . ) all give me an interesting idea of what India is like as a country and a culture.
Hennepin County Library audioCD 10.5 hours
read by Ralph Cosham
genre: historical fiction / classic literature / adventure
I don't think I would have ever read this text cover-to-cover. I was curious about this legendary Kipling story, but I struggled to finish it even in audio version. The narrator was wonderful, but the story meandered too much for me. There was a lot of it that I missed because the names and some of the ideas just didn't sink in. I think I'll just summarize here by copying from the back flap:
"Kimball O'Hara is . . . (covered by barcode) . . . streets of India. As a boy, he shows self-reliance and resourcefulness, running errands for Mahbub Ali, who works for the British Secret Service. Kim also meets a Tibetan lama who is on a quest to be freed from the Wheel of Life and becomes his disciple. Together they have wonderful adventures on the exotically colorful Grand Trunk Road through the Indian countryside. Then Kim is pulled into the great game of British imperial espionage and becomes a member of the Secret Service, even capturing documents from the enemy spies. Yet Kim is greatly attached to the lama and begins to feel the conflicting pulls between a life of contemplation and one of action."
I don't regret reading it, but it wasn't one that I enjoyed a lot. Kim, along with The Life of Pi, and one other that I read in the past year that is set in India (Ann's book club title . . . ) all give me an interesting idea of what India is like as a country and a culture.
Heart and Soul: The Story of Florence Nightingale
by Gena K. Gorrell
PRMS hardcover, 135 pages
genre: biography
Interesting book! I have read other articles and a shorter children's biography of Florence Nightingale, but this one was much more informative. She was a very driven woman. One fact that stunned me was "in her lifetime she wrote about thirteen thousand letters, and published some two hundred books, pamphlets, and papers." There were others who were also pushing for reform in the medical field, but she was tireless! And she was an acquaintance of Queen Victoria. Interesting how frustrated Nightingale got by her lack of power in a male-dominated world. Very interesting book. Gorrell does a nice job of blending the story of Florence's life with photographs, documents, and information about other world events at the time. The Crimean War was just once piece of Florence's fight for reforms at a time when many doctors scoffed at the idea of germs.
PRMS hardcover, 135 pages
genre: biography
Interesting book! I have read other articles and a shorter children's biography of Florence Nightingale, but this one was much more informative. She was a very driven woman. One fact that stunned me was "in her lifetime she wrote about thirteen thousand letters, and published some two hundred books, pamphlets, and papers." There were others who were also pushing for reform in the medical field, but she was tireless! And she was an acquaintance of Queen Victoria. Interesting how frustrated Nightingale got by her lack of power in a male-dominated world. Very interesting book. Gorrell does a nice job of blending the story of Florence's life with photographs, documents, and information about other world events at the time. The Crimean War was just once piece of Florence's fight for reforms at a time when many doctors scoffed at the idea of germs.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Though Waters Roar
by Lynn Austin
Hennepin County library, hardcover, 428 pages
genre: Christian / historical fiction
This generational story stretched from Hannah helping with the Underground Railroad to Bebe and the temperance movement through Lucy and the women's right to vote, and was framed by Harriet's struggle with her identity and cause. Each of these women, and the men in their lives, have an interesting story to tell.
I thought there was a bit too much time-hopping at the start of the story, but it became clearer as the story went on. Enjoyable. Good discussion at the Fish Tale! I love my book club.
Hennepin County library, hardcover, 428 pages
genre: Christian / historical fiction
This generational story stretched from Hannah helping with the Underground Railroad to Bebe and the temperance movement through Lucy and the women's right to vote, and was framed by Harriet's struggle with her identity and cause. Each of these women, and the men in their lives, have an interesting story to tell.
I thought there was a bit too much time-hopping at the start of the story, but it became clearer as the story went on. Enjoyable. Good discussion at the Fish Tale! I love my book club.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
City of Bones
by Cassandra Clare
book one in The Mortal Instruments
Becky C loaned it to me, hardcover, 485 pages
Hmmm. This one didn't do it for me. I'm a bit surprised that it's a "New York Times Bestseller" - wonder if that happened before or after Stephenie Meyer endorsed it as a "story world I love to live in." It has some interesting characters and scenes, but I found it to be too dark. The romance angle was also disappointing (spoiler alert!) . . . when the sparks between Jace and Clary fizzle upon their learning that they are actually siblings. I don't even want to read the rest of the series to find out what happens. The scene in the church was most disappointing to me. Jace's abrupt change of allegiances in the final scene with Valentine put the nail in the coffin, so to speak. I'm glad Becky has found a series that she loves, but I don't share the love!
book one in The Mortal Instruments
Becky C loaned it to me, hardcover, 485 pages
Hmmm. This one didn't do it for me. I'm a bit surprised that it's a "New York Times Bestseller" - wonder if that happened before or after Stephenie Meyer endorsed it as a "story world I love to live in." It has some interesting characters and scenes, but I found it to be too dark. The romance angle was also disappointing (spoiler alert!) . . . when the sparks between Jace and Clary fizzle upon their learning that they are actually siblings. I don't even want to read the rest of the series to find out what happens. The scene in the church was most disappointing to me. Jace's abrupt change of allegiances in the final scene with Valentine put the nail in the coffin, so to speak. I'm glad Becky has found a series that she loves, but I don't share the love!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Shug
by Jenny Han
Hennepin County Library, audioCD 6 hours
read by: Liz Morton
genre: YA coming-of-age
Interesting! At first, this story drove me crazy. Annemarie "Shug" Wilcox is starting seventh grade and everything seems to be changing. Her best friend Mark is hanging with the "guys" and spending less and less time with her. Elaine is starting to hang out with the popular girls, and her family seems to be falling apart. I ended up really liking this story. It's got some wonderful scenes dealing with friendship, peer pressure, etc.
Hennepin County Library, audioCD 6 hours
read by: Liz Morton
genre: YA coming-of-age
Interesting! At first, this story drove me crazy. Annemarie "Shug" Wilcox is starting seventh grade and everything seems to be changing. Her best friend Mark is hanging with the "guys" and spending less and less time with her. Elaine is starting to hang out with the popular girls, and her family seems to be falling apart. I ended up really liking this story. It's got some wonderful scenes dealing with friendship, peer pressure, etc.
Truer Than True Romance
by Jeanne Martinet
PRMS paper 112 pages
genre: humor / romance
What a hoot! When I saw this on the media center shelf, I did a double-take. This is a snarky, sarcastic take on the stereotypical 1940s romance comics. The original splash page is reprinted next to this author's rewritten story lines. A comics-lovers delight. I'm going to send it to the high school, because I don't think most middle schoolers would get it at all. It's hilarious!
PRMS paper 112 pages
genre: humor / romance
What a hoot! When I saw this on the media center shelf, I did a double-take. This is a snarky, sarcastic take on the stereotypical 1940s romance comics. The original splash page is reprinted next to this author's rewritten story lines. A comics-lovers delight. I'm going to send it to the high school, because I don't think most middle schoolers would get it at all. It's hilarious!
Chinese Cinderella: the true story of an unwanted daughter
by Adeline Yen Mah
PRMS paperback 205 pages
genre: memoir
When a student told me I "had" to read this, I was glad to comply. Now, like that student, I want to read Falling Leaves, which is Mah's full autobiography, and an award-winning book. What a horrible childhood - to be blamed as an infant for her mother's death and then treated like a non-person by her stepmother . . . at first, I actually thought she was a bit of a whiner ("poor me"), but as the story went on, I was saddened by the gap between what could (and should) have been for her and her siblings, and their reality. I am curious now to read Falling Leaves. One of the most stark scenes, to me, was when her father had to ask her what her Chinese name was because he didn't remember that (or her birth date). A well-told story.
PRMS paperback 205 pages
genre: memoir
When a student told me I "had" to read this, I was glad to comply. Now, like that student, I want to read Falling Leaves, which is Mah's full autobiography, and an award-winning book. What a horrible childhood - to be blamed as an infant for her mother's death and then treated like a non-person by her stepmother . . . at first, I actually thought she was a bit of a whiner ("poor me"), but as the story went on, I was saddened by the gap between what could (and should) have been for her and her siblings, and their reality. I am curious now to read Falling Leaves. One of the most stark scenes, to me, was when her father had to ask her what her Chinese name was because he didn't remember that (or her birth date). A well-told story.
Friday, March 19, 2010
The Greatest Generation
by Tom Brokaw
Hennepin County Library hardcover 390 pages
WWII non-fiction / heroes
I didn't finish this in time for book club discussion, but found that I was somewhat disappointed in the book. I've heard so many rave reviews of it that I think I expected more. My favorite chapters were on Dr. Van Gorder and Mary Louise Roberts Wilson. I guess in general, I liked the down-to-earth stories of the ordinary people. Even though Brokaw included a "shame" category, the book overall seemed to idealize the generation. We had a great discussion about that. I definitely think that there can be a general social mentality even when there are "good" and "bad" individuals in every era. I think the "me" decade was a time of great selfishness although there were many generous caring people and events at that time, too. Interesting book. Those of a slightly older age were really curious to hear what the 20-somethings thought of the book, but most of the younger book clubbers hadn't read it . . .
Hennepin County Library hardcover 390 pages
WWII non-fiction / heroes
I didn't finish this in time for book club discussion, but found that I was somewhat disappointed in the book. I've heard so many rave reviews of it that I think I expected more. My favorite chapters were on Dr. Van Gorder and Mary Louise Roberts Wilson. I guess in general, I liked the down-to-earth stories of the ordinary people. Even though Brokaw included a "shame" category, the book overall seemed to idealize the generation. We had a great discussion about that. I definitely think that there can be a general social mentality even when there are "good" and "bad" individuals in every era. I think the "me" decade was a time of great selfishness although there were many generous caring people and events at that time, too. Interesting book. Those of a slightly older age were really curious to hear what the 20-somethings thought of the book, but most of the younger book clubbers hadn't read it . . .
Darcy's Story
By Janet Aylmer
Hennepin County Library paperback 268 pages
genre: Victorian romance
I picked this one up when I already have too high a stack of books to read. The title caught my eye! I love Darcy and Elizabeth. It's basically a re-telling of Pride and Prejudice through Darcy's eyes. Though written very true to Austen's original, it lacked something for me. It just seemed like a summary . . . though a pleasant and enjoyable one.
Hennepin County Library paperback 268 pages
genre: Victorian romance
I picked this one up when I already have too high a stack of books to read. The title caught my eye! I love Darcy and Elizabeth. It's basically a re-telling of Pride and Prejudice through Darcy's eyes. Though written very true to Austen's original, it lacked something for me. It just seemed like a summary . . . though a pleasant and enjoyable one.
The Loud Silence of Francine Green
by Karen Cushman
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 5:36
read by Anaka Shockley
genre: YA coming-of-age
Cushman's stories are so thought-provoking! This one is about quiet, obedience Francine and her controversial neighbor Sophie Bowman. Set in cold war America, this was especially enlightening after having read Brokaw's "The Greatest Generation." Francine is a good Catholic girl who just tries to stay out of trouble, especially from Sister Basil. Sophie asks questions which provoke.
I'm not sure which of my students would enjoy this kind of book. Cushman is one of my favorite authors of historical fiction for young adolescents. This one reads as though she lived portions of it! Francine shelving books at the school library made me laugh.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 5:36
read by Anaka Shockley
genre: YA coming-of-age
Cushman's stories are so thought-provoking! This one is about quiet, obedience Francine and her controversial neighbor Sophie Bowman. Set in cold war America, this was especially enlightening after having read Brokaw's "The Greatest Generation." Francine is a good Catholic girl who just tries to stay out of trouble, especially from Sister Basil. Sophie asks questions which provoke.
I'm not sure which of my students would enjoy this kind of book. Cushman is one of my favorite authors of historical fiction for young adolescents. This one reads as though she lived portions of it! Francine shelving books at the school library made me laugh.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Twilight
by Stephenie Meyer
my copy, hardcover, 498 pages
genre: YA romance, paranormal
Re-read for 8th grade book club. I liked it less than the first time I read it. The discussion was very interesting! Most (but not all) of the girls liked it. Most (but not all) of the guys did NOT.
my copy, hardcover, 498 pages
genre: YA romance, paranormal
Re-read for 8th grade book club. I liked it less than the first time I read it. The discussion was very interesting! Most (but not all) of the girls liked it. Most (but not all) of the guys did NOT.
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