by Andrew Clements
Carver County Library paperback 252 pages
genre: YA SciFi, relationships
Bobby Phillips wakes up invisible one day and embarks on an identity crisis that helps him to mature. His parents tell him to stay home and not let anyone know, but he goes out (fully clothed head to toe) just for something to do. Once indoors at the library, he removes all his clothing in the men's room so he doesn't look suspicious. His naked invisible self bumps into a blind girl and a friendship with the beautiful Alicia changes his world.
Cute story. Okay book club discussion with the eighth graders yesterday . . . too many had not read it or had read it a few years ago.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Around the World in Eighty Days
by Jules Verne
Carver County Library audioCDs
read by Patrick Tull
genre: hist fic, adventure
I enjoy this story, though Phileas Fogg's "cold" responses and logical approach to everything gets a bit old. I hadn't remembered the story being so incredibly racist and stereotypical (especially in America, where the Indians are encountered). Still, I like Verne's story and the characters who travel with Fogg - Passepartout, Detective Fix, and Aouda.
One thing that makes me CRAZY, though, is how many versions of this story show a hot air balloon on the cover. And this audio version has on the back: " . . . must use every means of transportation known to 19th century humans - including a hot-air balloon, a locomotive, and an elephant . . . " NO!!!! There is NO hot-air balloon used in this story! Verne mentions one as a possibility to get across the Atlantic, but Fogg NEVER gets on one in this journey.
There. I feel better now.
Carver County Library audioCDs
read by Patrick Tull
genre: hist fic, adventure
I enjoy this story, though Phileas Fogg's "cold" responses and logical approach to everything gets a bit old. I hadn't remembered the story being so incredibly racist and stereotypical (especially in America, where the Indians are encountered). Still, I like Verne's story and the characters who travel with Fogg - Passepartout, Detective Fix, and Aouda.
One thing that makes me CRAZY, though, is how many versions of this story show a hot air balloon on the cover. And this audio version has on the back: " . . . must use every means of transportation known to 19th century humans - including a hot-air balloon, a locomotive, and an elephant . . . " NO!!!! There is NO hot-air balloon used in this story! Verne mentions one as a possibility to get across the Atlantic, but Fogg NEVER gets on one in this journey.
There. I feel better now.
Friday, February 03, 2012
The Pelican Brief
by John Grisham
PRMS paperback 436 pages
genre: mystery, suspense
This was a re-read, but it's been such a long time that I honestly didn't remember the story. I just finished it last night, so wasn't able to share at our Monday book club meeting ("any" Grisham book). Darby Shaw is a bright & beautiful law student who unravels some threads tying a wealthy businessman to the murders of two Supreme Court justices.
Fletcher Coal is the powerful man behind the president.
Khamel is the expensive and talented assassin.
Thomas Callahan is Darby's professor and lover.
Gray Grantham is the intrepid reporter.
I like the suspense so much more than any lawyer stuff . . .
PRMS paperback 436 pages
genre: mystery, suspense
This was a re-read, but it's been such a long time that I honestly didn't remember the story. I just finished it last night, so wasn't able to share at our Monday book club meeting ("any" Grisham book). Darby Shaw is a bright & beautiful law student who unravels some threads tying a wealthy businessman to the murders of two Supreme Court justices.
Fletcher Coal is the powerful man behind the president.
Khamel is the expensive and talented assassin.
Thomas Callahan is Darby's professor and lover.
Gray Grantham is the intrepid reporter.
I like the suspense so much more than any lawyer stuff . . .
Some of my Bets Friends Are Books: Guiding Gifted Readers
by Judith Wynn Halstad
Hennepin County Library paperback
genre: NF reading guidance
Kate Martens recommended this. I wasn't able to do more than skim it, since I'm at my limit in the Hennepin County system. It looks valuable, but my time management skills are poor and I don't have much in the way of budget. I'm blogging just so I can easily find it again.
Hennepin County Library paperback
genre: NF reading guidance
Kate Martens recommended this. I wasn't able to do more than skim it, since I'm at my limit in the Hennepin County system. It looks valuable, but my time management skills are poor and I don't have much in the way of budget. I'm blogging just so I can easily find it again.
In Odd We Trust
by Dean Koontz
illustrated by Queenie Chan
Hennepin County Library paperback
genre: YA graphic novel, paranormal mystery
Interesting little graphic novel - the psycho killer is targeting Stormy's friend, but brutally murders a little boy who's in her care. Nicely done both storywise & artwise.
illustrated by Queenie Chan
Hennepin County Library paperback
genre: YA graphic novel, paranormal mystery
Interesting little graphic novel - the psycho killer is targeting Stormy's friend, but brutally murders a little boy who's in her care. Nicely done both storywise & artwise.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Odd Thomas
by Dean Koontz
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 9 discs
read by David Aaron Baker
genre: paranormal mystery
I'm surprised I haven't already blogged about this book. I listened to it a year or so ago and was impressed. Odd Thomas can see the dead, but few people know about his "gift." The love of his life, Stormy Llewellen(?), and he are unusual people and perfectly compatible.
Interesting story. I re-listened so that I can continue with the other Odd Thomas books (one in my car already and one on hold at the library). Baker voices Odd Thomas well.
<Above published 2.2.12. Below added 1.1.24.>
I listened to this story again. I don't love the author's / main characters' perception of life after death (with Stormy's description of this life being "boot camp" . . . ) but this is a very creative work of fiction. The "bodocks" (sp?) as evil spirits is very realistic from a Christian perspective! The theological issues I have with the story don't really detract from all the things I like about it.
Little Ozzie, Chester his cat, Odd's own sweet strange self . . . I stopped to write down (pausing, going back, etc.) one quotation that jumped out at me.
"Guilt and shame have until now kept me silent on this issue. I am old enough even if just twenty to know that I have no logical reason to feel either guilt or shame, that I was the victim, not the victimizer. Yet I've been so long marinated in both emotions that they will forever flavor me."
The language here really struck me. Being marinated in guilt and shame . . . made me think of the household I grew up in. I'm not sure my parents even realized how much these tools were used. Of course, Odd's mother was really mentally ill. My parents were just raising us the way they had been raised.
I don't plan on continuing with the Odd Thomas series this time. In fact, I may weed out the Odd Thomas books I own (at the lake). There are so very many other books I want to read!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Cooking with Hot Flashes
by Martha Bolton
Hennepin County Library paperback 192 pgs
genre: humor, Christian perspective on aging
Funny, but a lot of it was still too "old" for me. I like her writing style - funny but not unkind. This was a nice book to have around for a few short chapters here & there.
My FB status is a quote from the book: "Laughter is healthy. It has the power to make you forget your problems, even if only temporarily. A hearty laugh can even burn thirty-five calories! How's that for a diet plan? Do without white bread if you want; I'd rather laugh."
Hennepin County Library paperback 192 pgs
genre: humor, Christian perspective on aging
Funny, but a lot of it was still too "old" for me. I like her writing style - funny but not unkind. This was a nice book to have around for a few short chapters here & there.
My FB status is a quote from the book: "Laughter is healthy. It has the power to make you forget your problems, even if only temporarily. A hearty laugh can even burn thirty-five calories! How's that for a diet plan? Do without white bread if you want; I'd rather laugh."
Wonderland Creek
by Lynn Austin
Hennepin County Library hardcover
genre: Christian historical fiction
Fun, but very predictable. The young woman was much too namby-pamby for me, but it did make her transformation more effective. Mack was clearly going to end up with her, so Ike was a pleasant diversion. Light fun.
Young librarian loses her job during the Depression, then she loses her undertaker boyfriend because her head's in the clouds. (Or was it vice-versa - loses Gordon, then job?) Anyhow, she takes a road trip with her aunt and uncle to deliver some books in the Appalachians and ends up staying. She is drawn into the poverty, feuds, and lives of the people in the little town and along the trails.
Some of the library / book stuff was delightful. Good discussion at book club!
Just saw an old unpublished post of this book:
by Lynn Austin
Hennepin COunty LIbrary hardcover 385 pages
genre: historical Christian fiction
No time!
Librarian / Great Depression / goes to Appalachia w/ bks she collected
Mack. Lillie. packhorses. coal scandal book
Ike
love
Hennepin County Library hardcover
genre: Christian historical fiction
Fun, but very predictable. The young woman was much too namby-pamby for me, but it did make her transformation more effective. Mack was clearly going to end up with her, so Ike was a pleasant diversion. Light fun.
Young librarian loses her job during the Depression, then she loses her undertaker boyfriend because her head's in the clouds. (Or was it vice-versa - loses Gordon, then job?) Anyhow, she takes a road trip with her aunt and uncle to deliver some books in the Appalachians and ends up staying. She is drawn into the poverty, feuds, and lives of the people in the little town and along the trails.
Some of the library / book stuff was delightful. Good discussion at book club!
Just saw an old unpublished post of this book:
by Lynn Austin
Hennepin COunty LIbrary hardcover 385 pages
genre: historical Christian fiction
No time!
Librarian / Great Depression / goes to Appalachia w/ bks she collected
Mack. Lillie. packhorses. coal scandal book
Ike
love
Theodore Boone Kid Lawyer
by John Grisham
PRMS hardcover 263 pages
genre: YA detective
Disappointing. After hearing so many rave reviews, I decided to read it myself (and be ready for our Monday staff book club - ANY Grisham novel). To be safe, I'm trying to get through Pelican Brief before tomorrow afternoon. Much better writing!
I'm not sure which middle schoolers Grisham hangs around, or who his target audience was, but I can't see many of my eighth graders buying into Teddy's reality. The courtroom stuff just doesn't hold that much interest, and Teddy's personal life reads more like fifth grade.
Ah well. Now I know how (and to whom) to booktalk this one.
PRMS hardcover 263 pages
genre: YA detective
Disappointing. After hearing so many rave reviews, I decided to read it myself (and be ready for our Monday staff book club - ANY Grisham novel). To be safe, I'm trying to get through Pelican Brief before tomorrow afternoon. Much better writing!
I'm not sure which middle schoolers Grisham hangs around, or who his target audience was, but I can't see many of my eighth graders buying into Teddy's reality. The courtroom stuff just doesn't hold that much interest, and Teddy's personal life reads more like fifth grade.
Ah well. Now I know how (and to whom) to booktalk this one.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Savvy
by Ingrid Law
PRMS hardcover 342 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age, fantasy
Mibs (Mississippi) Beaumont is eager for her 13th birthday. Besides becoming a teenager, she will learn what her savvy (special magical gift) is. Her older brothers Rocket and Fish have powers affecting electricity and water, respectively. But when their father is in a serious car accident just two days before her birthday, Mibs, Fish, and younger brother Samson end up in the clutches of Miss Rosemary, the preacher's wife.
A student implored me to read this book and I finally gave in. I'm so glad I did! Though it didn't catch my interest in the first few chapters, Law has done a wonderful job of looking at the intricacies of people and their relationships. And she has done it in a way that will attract many young readers. This book was delightful and I look forward to booktalking it with kids!
PRMS hardcover 342 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age, fantasy
Mibs (Mississippi) Beaumont is eager for her 13th birthday. Besides becoming a teenager, she will learn what her savvy (special magical gift) is. Her older brothers Rocket and Fish have powers affecting electricity and water, respectively. But when their father is in a serious car accident just two days before her birthday, Mibs, Fish, and younger brother Samson end up in the clutches of Miss Rosemary, the preacher's wife.
A student implored me to read this book and I finally gave in. I'm so glad I did! Though it didn't catch my interest in the first few chapters, Law has done a wonderful job of looking at the intricacies of people and their relationships. And she has done it in a way that will attract many young readers. This book was delightful and I look forward to booktalking it with kids!
Monday, January 23, 2012
Shipwrecked!
by Rhoda Blumberg
PRMS hardcover 77 pages
genre: NF, biography
Mary Verbick recommended this book, subtitled "The true adventures of a Japanese boy." Fascinating story of Manjiro and the closed culture of 1850s Japan. He was fishing with some other villagers when a storm blew up and stranded them on an island. After months of surviving on seaweed and albatross, they were rescued by a Dutch ship and brought to Hawaii. Manjiro's personal story from poor fisherman to Samurai is amazing! (And this story made me realize how little I know about other countries' history.)
PRMS hardcover 77 pages
genre: NF, biography
Mary Verbick recommended this book, subtitled "The true adventures of a Japanese boy." Fascinating story of Manjiro and the closed culture of 1850s Japan. He was fishing with some other villagers when a storm blew up and stranded them on an island. After months of surviving on seaweed and albatross, they were rescued by a Dutch ship and brought to Hawaii. Manjiro's personal story from poor fisherman to Samurai is amazing! (And this story made me realize how little I know about other countries' history.)
Sunday, January 22, 2012
When You Reach Me
by Rebecca Stead
PRMS paperback 197 pages
genre: YA time travel, relationships
Set in 1979 New York, Miranda's story confused me a bit the first half of the book. I wasn't sure who she was addressing the story to, who the letters were from, etc. When I read a review that said this story dealt with time travel, it clicked. It helps that I've read A Wrinkle in Time, which is heavily referenced in this book.
My sixth grade Quest club will be reading this next, so I'm going to try to "set" the story for them.
PRMS paperback 197 pages
genre: YA time travel, relationships
Set in 1979 New York, Miranda's story confused me a bit the first half of the book. I wasn't sure who she was addressing the story to, who the letters were from, etc. When I read a review that said this story dealt with time travel, it clicked. It helps that I've read A Wrinkle in Time, which is heavily referenced in this book.
My sixth grade Quest club will be reading this next, so I'm going to try to "set" the story for them.
Hotel at the Corner of Bitter and Sweet
by Jamie Ford
Hennepin County Library paperback 285 pages
genre: historical fiction
Alternating between 1942 and 1986, we learn about Chinese American Henry and his life in Seattle during the evacuation of Japanese Americans to internment camps. Henry has befriended Keiko, although his father is super-nationalistic and perceives all Japanese as the enemy. In the 1980s, Henry is recently widowed and trying to be a different father to his son Marty than his own father was for him. Communication is tough!
This was a beautiful book, full of lovely and interesting characters. Black saxophonist Sydney and tough cook Mrs. Beatty were both integral to Henry's story. The relationship between him and Keiko developed so beautifully and innocently . . . his father's treachery broke my heart. The jazz music scene was also painted well. Wonderful story!
Hennepin County Library paperback 285 pages
genre: historical fiction
Alternating between 1942 and 1986, we learn about Chinese American Henry and his life in Seattle during the evacuation of Japanese Americans to internment camps. Henry has befriended Keiko, although his father is super-nationalistic and perceives all Japanese as the enemy. In the 1980s, Henry is recently widowed and trying to be a different father to his son Marty than his own father was for him. Communication is tough!
This was a beautiful book, full of lovely and interesting characters. Black saxophonist Sydney and tough cook Mrs. Beatty were both integral to Henry's story. The relationship between him and Keiko developed so beautifully and innocently . . . his father's treachery broke my heart. The jazz music scene was also painted well. Wonderful story!
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Lola and the Boy Next Door
by Stephanie Perkins
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 7 discs
read by Shannon McManus
genre: YA romance, relationships
Delores prefers to be called Lola, has two dads (Nathan and Andy) for parents, dresses outlandishly, and has a 22-year-old rocker boyfriend named Max. Into this mix, her next door neighbors move back in after two years away. Calliope Bell is a world-class figure skater and snob. Her twin brother Cricket broke Lola's heart and she has spent two years hating him. But hatred is not the feeling he evokes . . .
I enjoyed this book a lot. Lola is too immature in terms of communication and relationships, but the attraction between her and Cricket builds slowly and powerfully. Her relationship with Max seems unlikely and the breakup scene was less horrible than I anticipated. Overall, a very interesting story.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 7 discs
read by Shannon McManus
genre: YA romance, relationships
Delores prefers to be called Lola, has two dads (Nathan and Andy) for parents, dresses outlandishly, and has a 22-year-old rocker boyfriend named Max. Into this mix, her next door neighbors move back in after two years away. Calliope Bell is a world-class figure skater and snob. Her twin brother Cricket broke Lola's heart and she has spent two years hating him. But hatred is not the feeling he evokes . . .
I enjoyed this book a lot. Lola is too immature in terms of communication and relationships, but the attraction between her and Cricket builds slowly and powerfully. Her relationship with Max seems unlikely and the breakup scene was less horrible than I anticipated. Overall, a very interesting story.
Monday, January 02, 2012
The Sweet, Terrible, Glorious Year I Truly, Completely Lost It
by Lisa Shanahan
PRMS hardcover 295 pages
genre: YA contemporary fiction with some romance, problems, and humor
Liked: Raven, Gemma Stone's growing self-awareness, "chucking a birkett," and so many parts of this delightful story!
Disliked: not much . . . . The author didn't include a glossary (as in the Louise Rennison books about Georgia Nicholson - almost as funny as the books themselves!). Some of her Australian slang left me really confused. I still don't know what the "tip" was . . . a dump?
PRMS hardcover 295 pages
genre: YA contemporary fiction with some romance, problems, and humor
Liked: Raven, Gemma Stone's growing self-awareness, "chucking a birkett," and so many parts of this delightful story!
Disliked: not much . . . . The author didn't include a glossary (as in the Louise Rennison books about Georgia Nicholson - almost as funny as the books themselves!). Some of her Australian slang left me really confused. I still don't know what the "tip" was . . . a dump?
A Whole Nother Story
"As told by (the one and only) Dr. Cuthbert Soup
April's copy, paperback, 264 pages
genre: YA humor, adventure, mystery
Liked: some of the clever wordplay (like Jough Psmythe for "Joe Smith"), the nuttiness of some of the characters
Disliked: the "talking directly to the audience" writing style (though April must LOVE this; this is the second book she's recommended in this style), the stupidity of the villains, the ridiculousness of Mr. Cheeseman's plan to get the time travel machine working and to get his wife back, etc.
I just didn't care for this and have no desire to read the second book.
April's copy, paperback, 264 pages
genre: YA humor, adventure, mystery
Liked: some of the clever wordplay (like Jough Psmythe for "Joe Smith"), the nuttiness of some of the characters
Disliked: the "talking directly to the audience" writing style (though April must LOVE this; this is the second book she's recommended in this style), the stupidity of the villains, the ridiculousness of Mr. Cheeseman's plan to get the time travel machine working and to get his wife back, etc.
I just didn't care for this and have no desire to read the second book.
I Am Number Four
by Pittacus Lore (pseudonym for the two co-authors . . . )
PRMS hardcover 440 pages
genre: SciFi adventure
I finally read this! Wonderful book - I can watch the movie now. And get my hands on the second book. Alex read it, too. This one might be worth purchasing a personal copy of . . .
Number Four is from the planet Lorien. Fifteen children and their guardians left the planet before it was completely destroyed by the Mogadorians. The children are being killed one at a time, and "John" knows he is next.
I can't adequately blog about this right now - distracted and not feeling the writing "thing." This book is very engaging! It is one of those titles that works for both teens and adults. Looking forward to reading the next one!
PRMS hardcover 440 pages
genre: SciFi adventure
I finally read this! Wonderful book - I can watch the movie now. And get my hands on the second book. Alex read it, too. This one might be worth purchasing a personal copy of . . .
Number Four is from the planet Lorien. Fifteen children and their guardians left the planet before it was completely destroyed by the Mogadorians. The children are being killed one at a time, and "John" knows he is next.
I can't adequately blog about this right now - distracted and not feeling the writing "thing." This book is very engaging! It is one of those titles that works for both teens and adults. Looking forward to reading the next one!
Beast
by Donna Jo Napoli
PRMS paperback 260 pages
genre: fairy tale redux
Beauty and the Beast as told by the Beast's perspective. Interesting take on the tale, but I found the first half to be too slow. It will be interesting to see how many of my 8th grade book club kids can get through it. Prince Orasmyn (through language professor Napoli's lens) spends many chapters teaching us about Islam and Persian culture. His reason for becoming a lion is unusual . . . it didn't seem to fit with the traditional tale I'm familiar with. What was he supposed to do about the camel sacrifice? It's not quite the same as the arrogant youth situation.
Anyhow, I put lots of post-its in with talking points. Overall, this didn't do much for me. I liked Chou Chou, the pet fox.
Added 1/17/12 upon post-it removal:
pg. 5 "So many new words! Author's purpose?"
pg. 21 in response to "Fasting is difficult. But that's what makes it worth doing. Discipline, self-restraint, generosity toward those who truly lack the necessities of life - that's what fasting is about." I wrote "For me, it's about obedience to God."
pg. 65 - "Sex." (I'm assuming this scene is why it wasn't being used with sixth graders. My 8th graders didn't think it was "that bad," though. Orasmyn as a lion has sex with two lionesses.)
pg. 69 - "lions feeding. Gross" extremely graphic and disgusting. Visceral.
pg. 99 - "What else could he have done to communicate?" As Orasmyn leaves his parents sleeping in his room.
pg. 115 - "Learning by observation." as he watches the other lions to figure things out.
pg. 140 - "Closer to traditional tale" he has found an abandoned castle to stay in."
pg. 146 - "love of books & language (heart)" Orasmyn as a lion is using the castle's library to explore ideas and retain the vestiges of his humanity
pg. 150 - "color blindness. knowing what's lost."
pg. 164 - "My favorite chapter so far! (Because of familiarity?)" at the end of ch. 14
pg. 198 - "What?! Why does she say this?" in response to the woman saying "I am neither thief, nor seductress." . . . why did she say this to a lion who just attacked the little fox she was caring for?
pg. 216 - "religious teachings"
pg. 239 - "A Muslim lion converting a Christian woman?"
pg. 248 - "Chou Chou is a wonderful character! Light, positive"
pg. 251 - "Book is almost over & Belle isn't even back yet."
pg. 255 - "Seriously? That's how it ends? Is he naked or clothed?"
pg. 260 - "Interesting recommednation. Benefits of studying languages." on author's note afterword. I hadn't realized that she was a linguistics professor, but it makes sense.
Only two of my eighth graders finished the book! The discussion was pretty limited.
PRMS paperback 260 pages
genre: fairy tale redux
Beauty and the Beast as told by the Beast's perspective. Interesting take on the tale, but I found the first half to be too slow. It will be interesting to see how many of my 8th grade book club kids can get through it. Prince Orasmyn (through language professor Napoli's lens) spends many chapters teaching us about Islam and Persian culture. His reason for becoming a lion is unusual . . . it didn't seem to fit with the traditional tale I'm familiar with. What was he supposed to do about the camel sacrifice? It's not quite the same as the arrogant youth situation.
Anyhow, I put lots of post-its in with talking points. Overall, this didn't do much for me. I liked Chou Chou, the pet fox.
Added 1/17/12 upon post-it removal:
pg. 5 "So many new words! Author's purpose?"
pg. 21 in response to "Fasting is difficult. But that's what makes it worth doing. Discipline, self-restraint, generosity toward those who truly lack the necessities of life - that's what fasting is about." I wrote "For me, it's about obedience to God."
pg. 65 - "Sex." (I'm assuming this scene is why it wasn't being used with sixth graders. My 8th graders didn't think it was "that bad," though. Orasmyn as a lion has sex with two lionesses.)
pg. 69 - "lions feeding. Gross" extremely graphic and disgusting. Visceral.
pg. 99 - "What else could he have done to communicate?" As Orasmyn leaves his parents sleeping in his room.
pg. 115 - "Learning by observation." as he watches the other lions to figure things out.
pg. 140 - "Closer to traditional tale" he has found an abandoned castle to stay in."
pg. 146 - "love of books & language (heart)" Orasmyn as a lion is using the castle's library to explore ideas and retain the vestiges of his humanity
pg. 150 - "color blindness. knowing what's lost."
pg. 164 - "My favorite chapter so far! (Because of familiarity?)" at the end of ch. 14
pg. 198 - "What?! Why does she say this?" in response to the woman saying "I am neither thief, nor seductress." . . . why did she say this to a lion who just attacked the little fox she was caring for?
pg. 216 - "religious teachings"
pg. 239 - "A Muslim lion converting a Christian woman?"
pg. 248 - "Chou Chou is a wonderful character! Light, positive"
pg. 251 - "Book is almost over & Belle isn't even back yet."
pg. 255 - "Seriously? That's how it ends? Is he naked or clothed?"
pg. 260 - "Interesting recommednation. Benefits of studying languages." on author's note afterword. I hadn't realized that she was a linguistics professor, but it makes sense.
Only two of my eighth graders finished the book! The discussion was pretty limited.
Slumdog Millionaire (multiple entries)
by Vikas Swarup
(originally published as Q&A)
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 10:45
read by Christopher Simpson
genre: realistic fiction, India
Oh my. This book was amazing and horrifying. Each time I read a book set in India, I'm taken aback by the commonplace cruelty, greed, lying, etc. Police brutality and government corruption seem to be the norm. Mary Verbick said she wishes she hadn't seen the movie because it was so disturbingly graphic. I'm very glad to have read the book, but I have no desire to see the movie.
Ram Mohammad Thomas has won the top prize (a billion rupees) on a quiz show. He is pulled from his bed, taken to prison, and tortured to confess that he cheated. The show's producers do not have the money to pay him and they do not understand how an uneducated man could have answered all the questions correctly. Just in the nick of time, a female lawyer shows up and takes Ram to find out the truth. As he shares his personal story in the order that illuminates his correct answers on the show, we get to know this extraordinary young man.
Not only was the story amazing, but this reader is the BEST I've EVER listened to!!! He created a huge cast of characters in an extremely believable manner - male and female, many different Indians, Australians, British, etc. This is the first time I've thought I ought to search out books by the reader (rather than author or theme). Absolutely delightful!
on 12.26.12 after re-listening. I'm adding the below after my third time listening to this story! What a well-woven story within a story. It's still intense and somewhat dark, but just amazing to listen to. ***Spoiler alerts below!*** And I've probably misspelled the character names horribly!>
Themes - mother (his recurring dream / image / mother with baby), homosexuality (Armand Ali, Father John, and Gupta at the juvenile home), alcohol (Chantaram, Black Label, whiskey, tending bar, drunkards telling truth, . . . ).
Smita - I love her!
"lahk" = 100,000
Q and A:
1. Betrayal - the movie with Armand Ali
2. INRI - Father Tim, no clue what FBI stood for
3. Pluto - Chantaram, his daughter, the kitten astronomy
4. blind poet / Krishna
5. PNG (persona non grata) - Australian spy
6. Haiti / voodoo - drunkard's story - Port Louis, Port Arthur, Port au Prince, Port Adelaide
7. Colt - revolver, train rider / bandit
8. (500K) highest honor in Indian military - time in the bunker, their local hero
9. (1 million) cricket /contract . . . time with assassin / substitution of Bollywood producer for Mammon
10. (10 million) Nilima Kumari - Tragedy Queen, national award 1985
11. (100 million) Shakespeare - "lifeboat" - called the guy whose son had rabies / Shankar - cerebral palsy? Swapna Davie / Nita - prostitute / Agra - tour guide
12. (1 billion) question on father of princess of Taj Mahal fame . . . since he knew it, new question on ??? (I don't remember!)
Timeline (rough):
infancy to age 8? / Father Tim
childhood / juvenile home, Saleem
12ish - Mammon, beggars, evil
Nilima Kumari (actress) - worked as house servant until she died
Chole with Saleem next? Chantaram / the bunker ???
ran from chole after Chantaram went through the railing - to Taylors?
Taylors / Australian family - got paid!
train ride / robbery / dead Dakote
Agra - tour guide - Shankar / Nita
back to Mumbai - the assassin? or maybe this was earlier
working as a waiter / bartender at Jimmy's
<Above posted on 1.2.2012. Below from blog entry in December 2012.>
This was a re-listen. What an incredible story! Mr. Simpson voices it very effectively. The tale of Ram Mohammed Thomas and his unlikely success winning a billion rupees amazes me in its intricacy and beauty amidst the horrors. In searching online to find out how to spell his unusual name (to satisfy the expectations of three different faith leaders), I'm horrified that his name is different in the movie version. Yet another reason NOT to watch the movie! The story of his name is one of my favorites in this wonderful book of storytelling.
<Above a copy / paste from December 2012 blog entry. Below added 6.29.2025>
I listened to the story again on Libby. I was so tempted to stop and make a chronological story order . . . and see now that I already did! There are probably better examples online, but I was curious about the author choosing to tell the story this way - in the order that the questions on the quiz show happened instead of chronologically. What an incredibly woven story. What a sad ending for Nilima Kumari. (Yes, I know I've probably misspelled the names in this horribly!)
Jane Austen Ruined My Life
by Beth Patillo
Hennepin County Library paperback 270 pages
genre: contemporary fiction
I can't in good conscience call this a "romance," though main character Emma is most definitely a romantic person!
Since I'm blogging quite a few weeks after having actually read this book, here's what I grabbed off Amazon: "English professor Emma Grant has always done everything just the way her minister father told her she should -- a respectable marriage, a teaching job at a good college, and plans for the requisite two children. Life was prodigiously good, as her favorite author Jane Austen might say, until the day Emma finds her husband in bed with another woman. Suddenly, all her romantic notions a la Austen are exposed for the foolish dreams they are.Denied tenure in the wake of the scandal and left penniless by the ensuing divorce, Emma packs up what few worldly possessions she has left and heads to England on a quest to find the missing letters of Jane Austen. Locating the elusive letters, however, isn't as straightforward as Emma hoped. The owner of the letters proves coy about her prize possessions, sending Emma on a series of Austen-related tasks that bring her closer and closer to the truth, but the sudden reappearance of Emma's first love makes everything more complicated."
I liked it a lot. Jodi Prip recommended it to me. Emma, Adam, Mrs. Parrot, Edward, and of course, Jane Austen's "secret" letters made this a wonderful book for someone who enjoys Austen's work. In fact, this made me want to re-read Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. It also made me curious to know more about Austen and her family, especially sister Cassandra.
Hennepin County Library paperback 270 pages
genre: contemporary fiction
I can't in good conscience call this a "romance," though main character Emma is most definitely a romantic person!
Since I'm blogging quite a few weeks after having actually read this book, here's what I grabbed off Amazon: "English professor Emma Grant has always done everything just the way her minister father told her she should -- a respectable marriage, a teaching job at a good college, and plans for the requisite two children. Life was prodigiously good, as her favorite author Jane Austen might say, until the day Emma finds her husband in bed with another woman. Suddenly, all her romantic notions a la Austen are exposed for the foolish dreams they are.Denied tenure in the wake of the scandal and left penniless by the ensuing divorce, Emma packs up what few worldly possessions she has left and heads to England on a quest to find the missing letters of Jane Austen. Locating the elusive letters, however, isn't as straightforward as Emma hoped. The owner of the letters proves coy about her prize possessions, sending Emma on a series of Austen-related tasks that bring her closer and closer to the truth, but the sudden reappearance of Emma's first love makes everything more complicated."
I liked it a lot. Jodi Prip recommended it to me. Emma, Adam, Mrs. Parrot, Edward, and of course, Jane Austen's "secret" letters made this a wonderful book for someone who enjoys Austen's work. In fact, this made me want to re-read Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. It also made me curious to know more about Austen and her family, especially sister Cassandra.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter
by Liz Wiseman with Greg McKeown
Hennepin County Library hardcover 250 pages
genre: non-fiction leadership
I struggled with this book and wish I'd had time to finish it (due today and no renewals because of the waiting list). Our district leaders (administration) are reading this and I was curious.
On the one hand, I appreciate "multipliers" like Sue Kreuser (the best boss I *ever* had!). I worked harder for her than for any other principal and didn't resent it or feel used at all.
On the other hand, this comes across almost as a "how to get more out of your employees without spending more money" type of book. That doesn't sit well when I see how stretched everyone around me is feeling. We're not working hard enough already?
Like I said, I'm conflicted . . . but I think a lot depends on what I'm bringing to the reading of this book. I love working with good leaders and need to try to be a "multiplier" kind of teacher! This just didn't connect very strongly for me.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 250 pages
genre: non-fiction leadership
I struggled with this book and wish I'd had time to finish it (due today and no renewals because of the waiting list). Our district leaders (administration) are reading this and I was curious.
On the one hand, I appreciate "multipliers" like Sue Kreuser (the best boss I *ever* had!). I worked harder for her than for any other principal and didn't resent it or feel used at all.
On the other hand, this comes across almost as a "how to get more out of your employees without spending more money" type of book. That doesn't sit well when I see how stretched everyone around me is feeling. We're not working hard enough already?
Like I said, I'm conflicted . . . but I think a lot depends on what I'm bringing to the reading of this book. I love working with good leaders and need to try to be a "multiplier" kind of teacher! This just didn't connect very strongly for me.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Amulet: The Stonekeeper (book one)
by Kazu Kibuishi
personal paperback 186 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, mystery & SciFi
Emily and Navin have dealt with the death of their dad and the frustration of moving to a new town, but when their mom is kidnapped by a bizarre tentacle creature in their "new" home, it's time for the kids to take charge. Emily finds an amulet which accepts her and gives her powers. A strange man with glowing tries to overpower them as they seek to rescue their mom, meet an elderly relative, and team up with some robots. I'm ready to read book two!
personal paperback 186 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, mystery & SciFi
Emily and Navin have dealt with the death of their dad and the frustration of moving to a new town, but when their mom is kidnapped by a bizarre tentacle creature in their "new" home, it's time for the kids to take charge. Emily finds an amulet which accepts her and gives her powers. A strange man with glowing tries to overpower them as they seek to rescue their mom, meet an elderly relative, and team up with some robots. I'm ready to read book two!
Ghost of Spirit Bear
by Ben Mikaelsen
Hennepin County Library audiobook 3:42
read by Jason Harris
genre: YA realistic fiction
The follow-up to Touching Spirit Bear, this story watches Cole and Peter return to their high school (Minneapolis Central) and try to live out their lives as changed individuals.
The mindless bullying and cruelty, indifference and ineptitude of the adults at the school, and Cole's recurrent bouts of anger got old fast. Not sure how many schools like this still exist, but it doesn't resemble anything I'm familiar with. The homeless guy was my favorite character, though we really don't get to know much about him. Keith's transformation was nice, but not very realistic.
Hennepin County Library audiobook 3:42
read by Jason Harris
genre: YA realistic fiction
The follow-up to Touching Spirit Bear, this story watches Cole and Peter return to their high school (Minneapolis Central) and try to live out their lives as changed individuals.
The mindless bullying and cruelty, indifference and ineptitude of the adults at the school, and Cole's recurrent bouts of anger got old fast. Not sure how many schools like this still exist, but it doesn't resemble anything I'm familiar with. The homeless guy was my favorite character, though we really don't get to know much about him. Keith's transformation was nice, but not very realistic.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Troubletwisters
by Garth Nix and Sean Williams
Hennepin COunty Library audioCDs 8:45
read by Miriam Margolyes
genre: YA fantasy, supernatural adventure & mystery
Liked:
the cats
good triumphs over evil
the blue room
the crocodile thing
reader's voice was very effective
Disliked:
adults keeping kids in the dark, even though the kids' lives were on the line
keeping major life secrets from mom
"Troubletwisters" never really explained
too many secrets and bizarre choices by the wardens
Hennepin COunty Library audioCDs 8:45
read by Miriam Margolyes
genre: YA fantasy, supernatural adventure & mystery
Liked:
the cats
good triumphs over evil
the blue room
the crocodile thing
reader's voice was very effective
Disliked:
adults keeping kids in the dark, even though the kids' lives were on the line
keeping major life secrets from mom
"Troubletwisters" never really explained
too many secrets and bizarre choices by the wardens
Saturday, December 10, 2011
The Wedding Planner's Daughter
by Coleen Paratore
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 4.25 hours
read by Sina Nielsen
genre: YA realistic fiction
Cute little story about Willafred Havisham (her mother is Stella, and she has "Great Expectations" for her daughter) and her dream for getting a father. Her birth father perished the day after his perfect wedding to Stella. Stella goes into business planning perfect weddings for others, but refuses to ever fall in love again.
Willa is a nice character, but she seems very young (closer to sixth grade than eighth). The literary quotations are nice. It's just a sweet, simple story.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 4.25 hours
read by Sina Nielsen
genre: YA realistic fiction
Cute little story about Willafred Havisham (her mother is Stella, and she has "Great Expectations" for her daughter) and her dream for getting a father. Her birth father perished the day after his perfect wedding to Stella. Stella goes into business planning perfect weddings for others, but refuses to ever fall in love again.
Willa is a nice character, but she seems very young (closer to sixth grade than eighth). The literary quotations are nice. It's just a sweet, simple story.
Friday, December 09, 2011
The Downside of Being Up
by Lawrence Sitomer
Hennepin County Library hardcover 210 pages
genre: YA male puberty, humor
Oh my. Very funny book, but more penis humor than I've ever encountered in my life before. I think I'll buy it for my collection. Recommended (?) by my peers who heard about it at a BER conference (except I don't think they plan to get it).
Not very realistic that he would be penalized for having an erection in school (as one character says, it would become an all-girl school pretty quickly if they expelled boys for that), this book has enough realistic elements to make it work. The nutty grandpa made me laugh the most. The dad's skewed life philosophy was a catalyst for Bobby to live his life differently. The brother-sister dynamic wasn't explored enough (and there was waaaaay too much of Finkelstein), but it was a delightful book.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 210 pages
genre: YA male puberty, humor
Oh my. Very funny book, but more penis humor than I've ever encountered in my life before. I think I'll buy it for my collection. Recommended (?) by my peers who heard about it at a BER conference (except I don't think they plan to get it).
Not very realistic that he would be penalized for having an erection in school (as one character says, it would become an all-girl school pretty quickly if they expelled boys for that), this book has enough realistic elements to make it work. The nutty grandpa made me laugh the most. The dad's skewed life philosophy was a catalyst for Bobby to live his life differently. The brother-sister dynamic wasn't explored enough (and there was waaaaay too much of Finkelstein), but it was a delightful book.
Green Lantern: Secret Origin
by Geoff Johns, Ivan Reis, & Oclair Albert
PRMS paperback unpaged
genre: graphic novel, superhero
Interesting. Not my favorite superhero, but a nice parallel to recently having watched the movie. I like the integrity of the mentor green lantern in this comic book version. I also like the emphasis on the brothers' relationships.
PRMS paperback unpaged
genre: graphic novel, superhero
Interesting. Not my favorite superhero, but a nice parallel to recently having watched the movie. I like the integrity of the mentor green lantern in this comic book version. I also like the emphasis on the brothers' relationships.
Monday, December 05, 2011
Ghostopolis
by Doug TenNapel
PRMS paperback 266 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, supernatural
Glad I finally took the time to read this. Odd story, but a terminally ill child accidentally gets sent to the afterlife by a somewhat slacker ghost hunter. Wanting to fix his mistake, Frank Gallows enlists the help of his one-time love Claire Voyant (clever, huh?) to get to Ghostopolis to rescue Garth Hale. Meanwhile, Garth is discovering that he has tremendous powers in the afterlife, drawing the attention of the evil Vaugner. My favorite part of the story was Garth's connections to his grandfather and his future son. Worth a second read!
PRMS paperback 266 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, supernatural
Glad I finally took the time to read this. Odd story, but a terminally ill child accidentally gets sent to the afterlife by a somewhat slacker ghost hunter. Wanting to fix his mistake, Frank Gallows enlists the help of his one-time love Claire Voyant (clever, huh?) to get to Ghostopolis to rescue Garth Hale. Meanwhile, Garth is discovering that he has tremendous powers in the afterlife, drawing the attention of the evil Vaugner. My favorite part of the story was Garth's connections to his grandfather and his future son. Worth a second read!
Sunday, December 04, 2011
War Horse
by Michael Morpurgo
PRMS hardcover 165 pages
genre: historical fiction (WWI) & horse story
Didn't really work for me. I loved King of the Wind, Black Beauty, and Peter Lundy and the Medicine Hat Stallion too much to enjoy this one. Choppy and not very compelling. I liked the scene in "no man's land" when Joey is rescued.
PRMS hardcover 165 pages
genre: historical fiction (WWI) & horse story
Didn't really work for me. I loved King of the Wind, Black Beauty, and Peter Lundy and the Medicine Hat Stallion too much to enjoy this one. Choppy and not very compelling. I liked the scene in "no man's land" when Joey is rescued.
Finding It: and Satisfying my Hunger for Life without Opening the Fridge
by Valerie Bertinelli
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6.5 hours
narrated by the author
genre: self-help, autobiography
Liked: Tom (what an amazing boyfriend/husband=type person), learning about Wolf (her son with Eddie Van Halen, her mom, and her accomplishments in losing weight and getting in shape
Didn't like: her self-centeredness and shallowness. Get over yourself! Also, her pseudo-Christian philsophizing got old. And her attitude toward food - too extreme.
Somewhat inspiring in terms of her achievements in working out and getting her weight down. (with the help of Christopher, her personal trainer)
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6.5 hours
narrated by the author
genre: self-help, autobiography
Liked: Tom (what an amazing boyfriend/husband=type person), learning about Wolf (her son with Eddie Van Halen, her mom, and her accomplishments in losing weight and getting in shape
Didn't like: her self-centeredness and shallowness. Get over yourself! Also, her pseudo-Christian philsophizing got old. And her attitude toward food - too extreme.
Somewhat inspiring in terms of her achievements in working out and getting her weight down. (with the help of Christopher, her personal trainer)
Saturday, December 03, 2011
Outcasts United: A Refugee Team, an American Town
by Warren St. John
Hennepin County Library hardcover 300 pages
genre: non-fiction journalism
This book follows Luma Mufleh from Jordan to America, where she goes to college and decides to stay in America to exercise her independence and strength as an individual. Her parents essentially disown her and she struggles to support herself and forge a new life. Over the same chunk of time, many refugees are being resettled in Clarkston, Georgia (just outside of Atlanta). The influx of so many needy refugees into a predominantly white, small town environment has a tremendous impact on the town. Mufleh starts a free soccer team for boys who love to play the game.
The Fugees have their ups and downs as a team, with poverty and violence playing a role. St. John's reporting is wonderful, especially when he acknowledges how difficult it is to remain an impartial observer to the boys' lives and struggles.
Barb Green recommended this book to me. It's a wonderful story! There's a lot of food for thought here. . . .
Hennepin County Library hardcover 300 pages
genre: non-fiction journalism
This book follows Luma Mufleh from Jordan to America, where she goes to college and decides to stay in America to exercise her independence and strength as an individual. Her parents essentially disown her and she struggles to support herself and forge a new life. Over the same chunk of time, many refugees are being resettled in Clarkston, Georgia (just outside of Atlanta). The influx of so many needy refugees into a predominantly white, small town environment has a tremendous impact on the town. Mufleh starts a free soccer team for boys who love to play the game.
The Fugees have their ups and downs as a team, with poverty and violence playing a role. St. John's reporting is wonderful, especially when he acknowledges how difficult it is to remain an impartial observer to the boys' lives and struggles.
Barb Green recommended this book to me. It's a wonderful story! There's a lot of food for thought here. . . .
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
The Invisible Bridge
by Julie Orringer
Hennepin County Library hardcover 597 pages
genre: historical fiction, WWII
Wow. I've stayed up way too late on a school night to finish this book. Amazing story about Andras Levi, a young Jew from Hungary with artistic talent and a desire to become an architect. France, Budapest, Ukraine, Italy, America . . . Klara, Tibor, Matyas, Polaner, Klein . . . so much in this powerful story. But I really need to go to bed. The author has created a memorable tale.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 597 pages
genre: historical fiction, WWII
Wow. I've stayed up way too late on a school night to finish this book. Amazing story about Andras Levi, a young Jew from Hungary with artistic talent and a desire to become an architect. France, Budapest, Ukraine, Italy, America . . . Klara, Tibor, Matyas, Polaner, Klein . . . so much in this powerful story. But I really need to go to bed. The author has created a memorable tale.
Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters
by Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, with Jeffrey Zaslow
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 9.25 hours
read by Michael McConnohie & Sully
genre: biography, philosophy
Liked: Specifics about flying experiences. His general attitude toward life and doing his personal best.
Disliked: He's kind of arrogant and very, very Type A. Not sure how his wife tolerates him. He got to be kind of a whiner about how much pilots miss out on at home and how poor their pay is.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 9.25 hours
read by Michael McConnohie & Sully
genre: biography, philosophy
Liked: Specifics about flying experiences. His general attitude toward life and doing his personal best.
Disliked: He's kind of arrogant and very, very Type A. Not sure how his wife tolerates him. He got to be kind of a whiner about how much pilots miss out on at home and how poor their pay is.
The Deepest Waters
by Dan Walsh
Hennepin County Library paperback 293 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction, romance
This book is reminiscent of Titanic, with the young lovers Laura and John torn apart when the ship goes down. On their honeymoon and traveling from the west coast to the east to meet John's family, Laura is rescued with the other women. Thinking that all the men died with the ship, Laura struggles to figure out what's next for her as she befriends Micah, a slave on the rescue ship, and a dastardly villain named Ayden Maul. Meanwhile, John and some of the other men are alive but floating on flotsam in the ocean.
We discussed this book last night. Many of us liked it although it was a fairly fluffy and predictable read. I liked Micah's faithfulness especially, and John's efforts on the high seas. The reconciliation with John's family wasn't very believable, but it was much better than last month's book!
Hennepin County Library paperback 293 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction, romance
This book is reminiscent of Titanic, with the young lovers Laura and John torn apart when the ship goes down. On their honeymoon and traveling from the west coast to the east to meet John's family, Laura is rescued with the other women. Thinking that all the men died with the ship, Laura struggles to figure out what's next for her as she befriends Micah, a slave on the rescue ship, and a dastardly villain named Ayden Maul. Meanwhile, John and some of the other men are alive but floating on flotsam in the ocean.
We discussed this book last night. Many of us liked it although it was a fairly fluffy and predictable read. I liked Micah's faithfulness especially, and John's efforts on the high seas. The reconciliation with John's family wasn't very believable, but it was much better than last month's book!
Tuesday, November 08, 2011
All the Broken Pieces
by Ann E. Burg
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 1:51
read by Tobias Christian Wong
genre: YA fiction, adoption, baseball, Vietnam War
Blurb from back: "Two years since he was evacuated out of Vietnam, twelve-year-old Matt Pin is struggling to suppress his memories of the deadly war that gripped his homeland. Circumstances beyond his control are about to make the memories come flooding back and reveal a horrid secret Matt thought he had left back in Vietnam."
Told in prose poetry, this book has a powerful message about love, forgiveness, and sorrow. The scene with Matt and the bully on the ball field, sharing their stories, is my favorite part.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 1:51
read by Tobias Christian Wong
genre: YA fiction, adoption, baseball, Vietnam War
Blurb from back: "Two years since he was evacuated out of Vietnam, twelve-year-old Matt Pin is struggling to suppress his memories of the deadly war that gripped his homeland. Circumstances beyond his control are about to make the memories come flooding back and reveal a horrid secret Matt thought he had left back in Vietnam."
Told in prose poetry, this book has a powerful message about love, forgiveness, and sorrow. The scene with Matt and the bully on the ball field, sharing their stories, is my favorite part.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Somewhere in Time
Hennepin County DVD
starring Christopher Reeve & Jane Seymour
I don't remember exactly what it was in the biography of Christopher & Dana Reeve that made me want to watch this. . . but I love Jane Seymour! This movie was based on a book titled Bid Love Return. In it, a man self-hypnotizes in order to time travel to 1912 because he has fallen in love with a woman's portrait. Jane Seymour portrays Elise McKenna, famous and beautiful stage actress. Predictably, the two fall in love. But then it goes from somewhat hokey to really hokey. Weird ending after slow cinematography.
Loved the character of Arthur, both young and old. Loved the gorgeous period costumes. Very attractive couple.
starring Christopher Reeve & Jane Seymour
I don't remember exactly what it was in the biography of Christopher & Dana Reeve that made me want to watch this. . . but I love Jane Seymour! This movie was based on a book titled Bid Love Return. In it, a man self-hypnotizes in order to time travel to 1912 because he has fallen in love with a woman's portrait. Jane Seymour portrays Elise McKenna, famous and beautiful stage actress. Predictably, the two fall in love. But then it goes from somewhat hokey to really hokey. Weird ending after slow cinematography.
Loved the character of Arthur, both young and old. Loved the gorgeous period costumes. Very attractive couple.
Into the Volcano
by Don Wood
mine, hardcover, 175 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, adventure
Sumo and Duffy are two brothers sent to visit their aunt on a Hawaiian-styled island. It's a bit odd that their mother is MIA, their dad sends them off with their cousin Come-and-Go, and they're headed to visit an aunt they don't even know. Then the story gets weirder when they are taken on an extremely dangerous mission. I liked Sumo's gain of confidence, though he was a whiny brat before he tried to save his brother. Interesting, but I don't love it the way I love the Bone books.
mine, hardcover, 175 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, adventure
Sumo and Duffy are two brothers sent to visit their aunt on a Hawaiian-styled island. It's a bit odd that their mother is MIA, their dad sends them off with their cousin Come-and-Go, and they're headed to visit an aunt they don't even know. Then the story gets weirder when they are taken on an extremely dangerous mission. I liked Sumo's gain of confidence, though he was a whiny brat before he tried to save his brother. Interesting, but I don't love it the way I love the Bone books.
Little Nothings: My Shadow in the Distance
by Lewis Trondheim
Hennepin County Library paperback 127 pages
genre: graphic novel, musings
The main character travels a lot, makes observations, tries to keep a positive attitude, and has nose polyps removed. I liked the artwork, some of the humor, and the clear storyline.
Hennepin County Library paperback 127 pages
genre: graphic novel, musings
The main character travels a lot, makes observations, tries to keep a positive attitude, and has nose polyps removed. I liked the artwork, some of the humor, and the clear storyline.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Debt Free for Life
by David Bach
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 7:19
read by Erik Davies
genre: self-help finance
Liked some of the recommendations and the fact that I'm already doing a lot of the "right" things.
Disliked: his arrogance (you've probably seen me on Oprah . . . / I've helped millions of people . . . / if you're one of the millions who've already read one of my books . . . ) I've never even heard of him before!!!
Disliked: constant reference to the many web tools (which I don't want to use)
Disliked: lack of advice on cutting spending! End part talked about "changing your mind set," but there wasn't much practical advice on how to do that!
Hahaha! I blogged the above on 10/30/2011 . . . and just now sat down to blog it again. Here's my today (4/1/2016) entry:
I couldn't even get past the first CD! His sales pitches for other products and his ego "You know me from my many appearances on television . . . " The vocal work by Davies is smarmy . . . is it the writing or the delivery or both? Who cares. I can't listen to any more. I like the "forget good debt / bad debt; all debt is bad" message. He mentioned www.debtwise.com and www. finishrich.com (and I thought, "Who cares about finishing rich? You don't need money for Heaven! Perhaps you need some in Hell, though.") He talks about "buying back your freedom" using his "revolutionary new system."
I dislike debt. I'm determined to get rid of it. But I'm not swamped in it and am fairly confident I can tackle it without torturing myself with this book. (Ironic, though, that I checked out the same thing five years ago!)
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 7:19
read by Erik Davies
genre: self-help finance
Liked some of the recommendations and the fact that I'm already doing a lot of the "right" things.
Disliked: his arrogance (you've probably seen me on Oprah . . . / I've helped millions of people . . . / if you're one of the millions who've already read one of my books . . . ) I've never even heard of him before!!!
Disliked: constant reference to the many web tools (which I don't want to use)
Disliked: lack of advice on cutting spending! End part talked about "changing your mind set," but there wasn't much practical advice on how to do that!
Hahaha! I blogged the above on 10/30/2011 . . . and just now sat down to blog it again. Here's my today (4/1/2016) entry:
I couldn't even get past the first CD! His sales pitches for other products and his ego "You know me from my many appearances on television . . . " The vocal work by Davies is smarmy . . . is it the writing or the delivery or both? Who cares. I can't listen to any more. I like the "forget good debt / bad debt; all debt is bad" message. He mentioned www.debtwise.com and www. finishrich.com (and I thought, "Who cares about finishing rich? You don't need money for Heaven! Perhaps you need some in Hell, though.") He talks about "buying back your freedom" using his "revolutionary new system."
I dislike debt. I'm determined to get rid of it. But I'm not swamped in it and am fairly confident I can tackle it without torturing myself with this book. (Ironic, though, that I checked out the same thing five years ago!)
Books Mary recommended
Not sure when I'll get time, but I want to keep track of these titles (off FB). Mary gives the *best* recommendations:
Great books so far - State of Wonder by Ann Patchett, The Return Journey by Maeve Binchy, Absolutely, Positively, NOT... ...gay by David Larochelle, The Coffins of Little Hope by Timothy Schaffert, Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
Mary Verbick 1:49pm Jul 13
Great books so far - State of Wonder by Ann Patchett, The Return Journey by Maeve Binchy, Absolutely, Positively, NOT... ...gay by David Larochelle, The Coffins of Little Hope by Timothy Schaffert, Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
Mary Verbick 1:49pm Jul 13
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality
by Donald Miller
Hennepin County Library paperback 240 pages
genre: theology
I would love to do this one for our SOLC book club! It was challenging and frustrating. I really enjoyed the first one hundred or so pages. Miller's take on faith and modern day Christianity interested me and made me think about my own faith. Then the author seemed to fall into a whiny, selfish, pathetic mode that just turned me off.
One part I liked: "That is the thing about giving yourself to God. Some people get really emotional about it, and some people don't feel much of anything except the peace they have after making an important decision." I love the feeling of peace. (But then, I also love the intense emotion that often comes with a move of the Holy Spirit.)
He made a lot of interesting points (on Unitarians, hippies, etc.) but I don't agree with him completely. This is a great food-for-thought book.
Hennepin County Library paperback 240 pages
genre: theology
I would love to do this one for our SOLC book club! It was challenging and frustrating. I really enjoyed the first one hundred or so pages. Miller's take on faith and modern day Christianity interested me and made me think about my own faith. Then the author seemed to fall into a whiny, selfish, pathetic mode that just turned me off.
One part I liked: "That is the thing about giving yourself to God. Some people get really emotional about it, and some people don't feel much of anything except the peace they have after making an important decision." I love the feeling of peace. (But then, I also love the intense emotion that often comes with a move of the Holy Spirit.)
He made a lot of interesting points (on Unitarians, hippies, etc.) but I don't agree with him completely. This is a great food-for-thought book.
Angel Harp
by Michael Phillips
Hennepin County Library hardcover 440 pages
genre: Christian fiction
Fortyish widow goes to Scotland to find herself and play her harp. Gets involved with two men - a parson & a duke. Gains a saving faith.
Liked: her faith journey and coming to know the Lord.
Didn't like: the author's repetition and excessiveness in sharing all he knows about Scotland. This book needed an editor who owned a red pen and some courage! The tone of the book was just wrong, too. This is one male author who *cannot* successfully get into a woman's head.
Book Club discussion was good - largest group we've had yet!
Gwendolyn's illness was too mysterious (and convenient in a literary sense). The "romance" was just not there. The Scottish history was way too much!
Hennepin County Library hardcover 440 pages
genre: Christian fiction
Fortyish widow goes to Scotland to find herself and play her harp. Gets involved with two men - a parson & a duke. Gains a saving faith.
Liked: her faith journey and coming to know the Lord.
Didn't like: the author's repetition and excessiveness in sharing all he knows about Scotland. This book needed an editor who owned a red pen and some courage! The tone of the book was just wrong, too. This is one male author who *cannot* successfully get into a woman's head.
Book Club discussion was good - largest group we've had yet!
Gwendolyn's illness was too mysterious (and convenient in a literary sense). The "romance" was just not there. The Scottish history was way too much!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Thirteen Reasons Why
by Jay Asher
Scott County Library, hardcover, 288 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age / suicide
I finally read this (from the public library, since my copy is *always* checked out) before meeting the author last Wednesday evening at Ridgedale Library. I didn't love the book, but think it would make a great discussion book. It was extremely interesting to meet the author. He is a wonderful presenter! I am also encouraged by the response this book is getting from its target audience. For me, Hannah was too hard to understand . . . the "reasons" didn't make sense to me. I think this would have resonated with me much more as a teenager. Very, very cool to meet the author.
Scott County Library, hardcover, 288 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age / suicide
I finally read this (from the public library, since my copy is *always* checked out) before meeting the author last Wednesday evening at Ridgedale Library. I didn't love the book, but think it would make a great discussion book. It was extremely interesting to meet the author. He is a wonderful presenter! I am also encouraged by the response this book is getting from its target audience. For me, Hannah was too hard to understand . . . the "reasons" didn't make sense to me. I think this would have resonated with me much more as a teenager. Very, very cool to meet the author.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
You Don't Look Like Anyone I Know
by Heather Sellers
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 10.5 hours
read by Karen White
genre: memoir, dysfunction
Things I liked:
- relationship with parents evolving
- how wonderful Dave was
- writing style (for the most part)
Things I didn't like:
- repetition to the point of ad nauseum (?) boredom
- whiny, self-centered, . . .
- lack of info about her brother (though she explains why at the end)
- people's comments to her about being amazed that she survived her childhood. Hello? Anyone read other memoirs? Although she grew up with severe dysfunction, this is nothing compared to Peltzer's A Child Called It or Walls' Glass Castle.
Miscellany:
- very cool to realize that she teaches at Hope College! I wonder if Chris has had any of her classes.
- makes me realize that my family's issues are really not that bad!
Worthwhile read, but I liked the first half much better than the second half. I hope she gets over herself soon. The face blindness info was interesting until she gave the same spiel for the third, fourth, and fifth times.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 10.5 hours
read by Karen White
genre: memoir, dysfunction
Things I liked:
- relationship with parents evolving
- how wonderful Dave was
- writing style (for the most part)
Things I didn't like:
- repetition to the point of ad nauseum (?) boredom
- whiny, self-centered, . . .
- lack of info about her brother (though she explains why at the end)
- people's comments to her about being amazed that she survived her childhood. Hello? Anyone read other memoirs? Although she grew up with severe dysfunction, this is nothing compared to Peltzer's A Child Called It or Walls' Glass Castle.
Miscellany:
- very cool to realize that she teaches at Hope College! I wonder if Chris has had any of her classes.
- makes me realize that my family's issues are really not that bad!
Worthwhile read, but I liked the first half much better than the second half. I hope she gets over herself soon. The face blindness info was interesting until she gave the same spiel for the third, fourth, and fifth times.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Bossypants
by Tina Fey
mine, hardcover, 240 pages
genre: autobiographical humor
This is our school book club title for November and I'm on a loooong waiting list for it at the public library. So I bought a copy. Funny, especially the part on "becoming a woman" and the Teat Nazis. I'm going to share it with others at school - it's a very quick read. Tina Fey seems like a very smart, down-to-earth, extremely hard-working person.
Oh - this has *lots* of swearing . . . must be de rigeur for comedy? for television writers? I liked her chapter about her dad. I can only imagine what the family gatherings are like.
mine, hardcover, 240 pages
genre: autobiographical humor
This is our school book club title for November and I'm on a loooong waiting list for it at the public library. So I bought a copy. Funny, especially the part on "becoming a woman" and the Teat Nazis. I'm going to share it with others at school - it's a very quick read. Tina Fey seems like a very smart, down-to-earth, extremely hard-working person.
Oh - this has *lots* of swearing . . . must be de rigeur for comedy? for television writers? I liked her chapter about her dad. I can only imagine what the family gatherings are like.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Walmart: the High Cost of Low Price
DVD by filmmaker Robert Greenwald
Hennepin County Library 98 minutes
genre: documentary
I've never been a Walmart / Sam's Club fan, but this movie really bothered me. I know so many people who love Walmart (because of the inexpensive items sold there) and just can't see why others (like me) think it's a "bad" choice for shopping. Free market is part of capitalism in America, but I see Walmart in a very negative light. I almost want to buy a copy of this DVD, especially for my friends in Chanhassen who are dreading the thought of a Walmart being located there. Well-done documentary. I'm so sad for the small town business people who were run out of business by the evil empire.
Hennepin County Library 98 minutes
genre: documentary
I've never been a Walmart / Sam's Club fan, but this movie really bothered me. I know so many people who love Walmart (because of the inexpensive items sold there) and just can't see why others (like me) think it's a "bad" choice for shopping. Free market is part of capitalism in America, but I see Walmart in a very negative light. I almost want to buy a copy of this DVD, especially for my friends in Chanhassen who are dreading the thought of a Walmart being located there. Well-done documentary. I'm so sad for the small town business people who were run out of business by the evil empire.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Elvis & Olive
by Stephanie Watson
PRMS hardcover 230 pages
genre: YA friendship
Written by a Minnesota author, Elvis & Olive reminded me of Harriet the Spy. Annie and Natalie take on their code names so they can spy on their neighbors one long boring summer. This would be a nice book for a sixth grade girl. Annie has a tough life and Natalie a "perfect" one. The contrast between these two kids is what makes the story engaging.
PRMS hardcover 230 pages
genre: YA friendship
Written by a Minnesota author, Elvis & Olive reminded me of Harriet the Spy. Annie and Natalie take on their code names so they can spy on their neighbors one long boring summer. This would be a nice book for a sixth grade girl. Annie has a tough life and Natalie a "perfect" one. The contrast between these two kids is what makes the story engaging.
Sean Griswold's Head
by Lindsey Leavitt
Angie Tuma's book hardcover 274 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, romance
Lovely book! Payton seems pretty OCD to me, but she is definitely struggling with the accidental discovery of her dad's MS and her family's decision to try to hide it from her. She quits the basketball team, stops talking to her parents, and starts seeing the school counselor under duress. Her best friend Jac makes things more complicated and Payton needs to cope with everything. When told to find a focus object, she selects the head of the boy she has sat behind for many years in school. Focusing on Sean Griswold's head draws her into his world . . . sweet romance.
Angie Tuma's book hardcover 274 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, romance
Lovely book! Payton seems pretty OCD to me, but she is definitely struggling with the accidental discovery of her dad's MS and her family's decision to try to hide it from her. She quits the basketball team, stops talking to her parents, and starts seeing the school counselor under duress. Her best friend Jac makes things more complicated and Payton needs to cope with everything. When told to find a focus object, she selects the head of the boy she has sat behind for many years in school. Focusing on Sean Griswold's head draws her into his world . . . sweet romance.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Hush, Hush
by Becca Fitzpatrick
Angie Tuma's copy, paperback, 391 pages
genre: supernatural romance
Interesting. Sensual - this keys into the female desire. Theology . . . so, so sad and off-base (but that's not the author's intent). Patch is a fallen angel. There's a convoluted logic of how he can become human and why he does not. This is a perfect fit for fans of the Twilight series. I suppose I should read #2 before deciding whether or not to buy the series . . . or maybe I can find trustworthy reviews.
Angie Tuma's copy, paperback, 391 pages
genre: supernatural romance
Interesting. Sensual - this keys into the female desire. Theology . . . so, so sad and off-base (but that's not the author's intent). Patch is a fallen angel. There's a convoluted logic of how he can become human and why he does not. This is a perfect fit for fans of the Twilight series. I suppose I should read #2 before deciding whether or not to buy the series . . . or maybe I can find trustworthy reviews.
Friday, October 07, 2011
Listening Is an Act of Love
subtitled: A Celebration of American Life from the Storycorps Project
Told by StoryCorps Participants
Hennepin County Library audioCD 1 hour
genre: life stories
This is amazing! People shared their stories in an interview environment. The stories are funny, heart-warming, beautiful. I loved this so much, I put it on my computer so I can listen to it again. Dave Isay founded StoryCorps and has been collecting regular people's stories and archiving them at the Library of Congress.
Told by StoryCorps Participants
Hennepin County Library audioCD 1 hour
genre: life stories
This is amazing! People shared their stories in an interview environment. The stories are funny, heart-warming, beautiful. I loved this so much, I put it on my computer so I can listen to it again. Dave Isay founded StoryCorps and has been collecting regular people's stories and archiving them at the Library of Congress.
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Quiet Strength
by Tony Dungy with Nathan Whitaker
PRMS paperback & Hennepin County audioCDs
read by Peter Jay Fernandez
genre: sports / autobiography / character
Even though I'm not a sports fan, I really enjoyed this book. Dungy's career, family, and personal character and faith come to life in this book. Fernandez' reading was flawless. I'm so glad Dungy and the Colts won the Superbowl! Made me want to learn more.
PRMS paperback & Hennepin County audioCDs
read by Peter Jay Fernandez
genre: sports / autobiography / character
Even though I'm not a sports fan, I really enjoyed this book. Dungy's career, family, and personal character and faith come to life in this book. Fernandez' reading was flawless. I'm so glad Dungy and the Colts won the Superbowl! Made me want to learn more.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Alcatraz versus the Evil Librarians
by Brandon Sanderson
PRMS hard cover 308 pages
genre: humor / mystery / fantasy
April raved about this book, so I had to read it. Alcatraz is a wonderful protagonist, but the technique of self-aware storyteller got old. Alcatraz has a talent for breaking things. On his thirteenth birthday, things go worse than usual when he sets his foster parents' kitchen on fire, has his inheritance stolen, and gets a gun drawn on him.
Filled with talking dinosaurs (politely British), special lenses, and evil librarians, this is a quirky book. There were *so* many great lines in it that I wanted to jot some of them down. Fun, odd title.
PRMS hard cover 308 pages
genre: humor / mystery / fantasy
April raved about this book, so I had to read it. Alcatraz is a wonderful protagonist, but the technique of self-aware storyteller got old. Alcatraz has a talent for breaking things. On his thirteenth birthday, things go worse than usual when he sets his foster parents' kitchen on fire, has his inheritance stolen, and gets a gun drawn on him.
Filled with talking dinosaurs (politely British), special lenses, and evil librarians, this is a quirky book. There were *so* many great lines in it that I wanted to jot some of them down. Fun, odd title.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Les Miserables
1935 movie
based on the book by Victor Hugo
starring Fredric March, Charles Laughton, and Sir Cedric Hardwicke
Hennepin County Library 110 minutes long
I sort of knew the story of Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert, but hadn't ever actually read Hugo's book or seen any of the many theatrical interpretations. I enjoyed this old black & white film, but am not sure how faithful it was to the original story. The only thing that really creeped me out was the relationship between Valjean and Cosette. He took care of her from the time she was a little girl and was a father figure, but acted as though he wanted to jump her bones.
I started to watch the 1952 version on the flip side of the disk, but I just wasn't up for another telling of the tale. I'll need to read the novel, but at least now I have a better understanding of the story. Now when I hear a reference to it, I'll have a connection to the text.
based on the book by Victor Hugo
starring Fredric March, Charles Laughton, and Sir Cedric Hardwicke
Hennepin County Library 110 minutes long
I sort of knew the story of Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert, but hadn't ever actually read Hugo's book or seen any of the many theatrical interpretations. I enjoyed this old black & white film, but am not sure how faithful it was to the original story. The only thing that really creeped me out was the relationship between Valjean and Cosette. He took care of her from the time she was a little girl and was a father figure, but acted as though he wanted to jump her bones.
I started to watch the 1952 version on the flip side of the disk, but I just wasn't up for another telling of the tale. I'll need to read the novel, but at least now I have a better understanding of the story. Now when I hear a reference to it, I'll have a connection to the text.
Somewhere in Heaven: The Remarkable Love Story of Dana and Christopher Reeve
by Christopher P. Andersen
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6 hours
read by Edward Herrmann
genre: biography
From the back "When a 1995 equestrian accident paralyzes Chris from the neck down, the star of four Superman films battles back to become an inspiring symbol for millions. His wife Dana, no less heroic, stands steadfastly by her husband's side until his unexpected death in 2004. . . . " Then Dana's mom dies, then Dana herself, from lung cancer (though she was a non-smoker). Though there were times when I teared up a bit (mostly thinking of poor little Will), this story did not make me overflow with compassion. Mr. Reeve was wealthy and privileged in many, many ways. Though what happened was tragic, many non-famous, non-wealthy people have horrible accidents and are left paralyzed. I struggled at times with my attitude while listening to the book. They really do sound as though they were wonderful people who positively impacted many other people's lives. The author was extremely positive in his portrayal of the Reeves. It just didn't move me the way other people's struggles have. Am I anti-rich? Not consciously. I'm glad that his accident led him to improve research for others with spinal cord injuries. I'm so sorry for all three of his children that they lost their dad (and Will his mom as well) while still so young.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6 hours
read by Edward Herrmann
genre: biography
From the back "When a 1995 equestrian accident paralyzes Chris from the neck down, the star of four Superman films battles back to become an inspiring symbol for millions. His wife Dana, no less heroic, stands steadfastly by her husband's side until his unexpected death in 2004. . . . " Then Dana's mom dies, then Dana herself, from lung cancer (though she was a non-smoker). Though there were times when I teared up a bit (mostly thinking of poor little Will), this story did not make me overflow with compassion. Mr. Reeve was wealthy and privileged in many, many ways. Though what happened was tragic, many non-famous, non-wealthy people have horrible accidents and are left paralyzed. I struggled at times with my attitude while listening to the book. They really do sound as though they were wonderful people who positively impacted many other people's lives. The author was extremely positive in his portrayal of the Reeves. It just didn't move me the way other people's struggles have. Am I anti-rich? Not consciously. I'm glad that his accident led him to improve research for others with spinal cord injuries. I'm so sorry for all three of his children that they lost their dad (and Will his mom as well) while still so young.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
McLibel: The story of two people who wouldn't say McSorry
a film by Franny Armstrong
Hennepin Public Library 85 minutes long & extras
genre: documentary
I don't usually review films, but this one was very interesting. I found myself vacillating between complete agreement and "you've got to be kidding me - this is how the world works." They state that they were not fighting McDonalds so much as multinational companies. I don't think most people really consider how McDonalds, Wal-Mart, and other companies affect this planet and all the people on it. At the same time, some of the arguments seemed a bit much. Interesting, because I despise Wal-Mart and the impact of WM on the world. . . . But I kind of like McDonalds. (Perhaps I'm just an innocent victim of their insidious advertising to small children. My McDonalds connection goes waaaay back.)
In any case, thought-provoking and worth my time. I appreciate food for thought. And I appreciate something that makes me think about my choices.
It truly was stupid of the company to demand apologies for libel based on a leaflet.
Hennepin Public Library 85 minutes long & extras
genre: documentary
I don't usually review films, but this one was very interesting. I found myself vacillating between complete agreement and "you've got to be kidding me - this is how the world works." They state that they were not fighting McDonalds so much as multinational companies. I don't think most people really consider how McDonalds, Wal-Mart, and other companies affect this planet and all the people on it. At the same time, some of the arguments seemed a bit much. Interesting, because I despise Wal-Mart and the impact of WM on the world. . . . But I kind of like McDonalds. (Perhaps I'm just an innocent victim of their insidious advertising to small children. My McDonalds connection goes waaaay back.)
In any case, thought-provoking and worth my time. I appreciate food for thought. And I appreciate something that makes me think about my choices.
It truly was stupid of the company to demand apologies for libel based on a leaflet.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Get Real: What Kind of World Are You Buying?
by Mara Rockliff
Hennepin County Library paperback 99 pages
genre: non-fiction consumerism
Finally finished putting the websites mentioned throughout the book into my delicious account! Very interesting book. Very appropos for middle school. Heavily into careful consumerism and green living.
Hennepin County Library paperback 99 pages
genre: non-fiction consumerism
Finally finished putting the websites mentioned throughout the book into my delicious account! Very interesting book. Very appropos for middle school. Heavily into careful consumerism and green living.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
HP #5 & #7
You know I'm feeling stressed when I read cover-to-cover something that I've already read multiple times . . . at least I didn't start with #1 and read all seven . . .
Ten Things I Love About You
by Julia Quinn
Hennepin County Library audioCDs ~10 hours
ready by Rosalyn Landor
genre: historical romance
Enjoyable. Sebastian Grey is the dashing hero - an author of gothic novels in secret. His uncle is the Earl of Newbury, desperate for an heir after his son's death. Annabel Winslow is the poor, beautiful, well-endowed young woman whose grandfather "sells" her to the Earl by pointing out the likelihood that she'll breed well.
An accidental kiss and society's disproving morals get annoying, but it's overall an enjoyable romance story. Landor's reading is good, but it's always a bit disconcerting to hear the male hero's voice through a woman's interp.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs ~10 hours
ready by Rosalyn Landor
genre: historical romance
Enjoyable. Sebastian Grey is the dashing hero - an author of gothic novels in secret. His uncle is the Earl of Newbury, desperate for an heir after his son's death. Annabel Winslow is the poor, beautiful, well-endowed young woman whose grandfather "sells" her to the Earl by pointing out the likelihood that she'll breed well.
An accidental kiss and society's disproving morals get annoying, but it's overall an enjoyable romance story. Landor's reading is good, but it's always a bit disconcerting to hear the male hero's voice through a woman's interp.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Losing Mum and Pup
by Christopher Buckley
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6.5 hours
read by the author
Although I don't know a lot about William F. Buckley, Jr., I knew that his name was strongly connected to "conservative." The title is what caught my eye, and I'm so very glad I listened. Buckley's experiences dealing with aging, ailing parents really resonates with me right now. He writes wonderfully (making me want to read some of his other work and perhaps some of his dad's, too).
At times I thought, "What arrogant, overprivileged jerks." But most of the time, I enjoyed the memoir and the intensity of the parent / child relationships. I'm also very thankful for siblings who help to share the burdens. This was an excellent memoir.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 6.5 hours
read by the author
Although I don't know a lot about William F. Buckley, Jr., I knew that his name was strongly connected to "conservative." The title is what caught my eye, and I'm so very glad I listened. Buckley's experiences dealing with aging, ailing parents really resonates with me right now. He writes wonderfully (making me want to read some of his other work and perhaps some of his dad's, too).
At times I thought, "What arrogant, overprivileged jerks." But most of the time, I enjoyed the memoir and the intensity of the parent / child relationships. I'm also very thankful for siblings who help to share the burdens. This was an excellent memoir.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Honor in the Dust
by Gilbert Morris
given by Penny Reynolds to me two book club meetings ago
paperback 303 pages
genre: Christian romance / hist fic
This was just not well-written at all. It lacked flow, clarity of narrative, and general interest. The thing I liked was the steadfast faith of Grace, Leah, etc. Not a particularly engaging or worthwhile story. A bit taken aback when I read about the author in the back. An older fellow who was a pastor before he was a writer, Morris says, " . . . I sometimes think I've written too many books. . . . Sometimes I think I've written the same book 221 times!" Um. Yeah. Stop already.
Thought it was funny to see Penny's red-pen English teacher marks on the use of then & than incorrectly (pages 180 & 262).
given by Penny Reynolds to me two book club meetings ago
paperback 303 pages
genre: Christian romance / hist fic
This was just not well-written at all. It lacked flow, clarity of narrative, and general interest. The thing I liked was the steadfast faith of Grace, Leah, etc. Not a particularly engaging or worthwhile story. A bit taken aback when I read about the author in the back. An older fellow who was a pastor before he was a writer, Morris says, " . . . I sometimes think I've written too many books. . . . Sometimes I think I've written the same book 221 times!" Um. Yeah. Stop already.
Thought it was funny to see Penny's red-pen English teacher marks on the use of then & than incorrectly (pages 180 & 262).
Candle in the Darkness
by Lynn Austin
Hennepin County Library paperback 420 pages
genre: Christian romance, hist fic
Sigh. I like Austin's writing, but I was really, really, really NOT in the mood for another Civil War book. Told from Caroline Fletcher's perspective from 1853 until shortly after the war, this felt too long and drawn-out. I loved Eli's faith and strength. In fact, I liked all the slaves. Caroline's spying seemed too far-fetched. Austin obviously did lots of research.
I don't remember who in book club recommended this one . . . not sure if I even bring it up at our next meeting. I just wasn't in the mood for this book.
Hennepin County Library paperback 420 pages
genre: Christian romance, hist fic
Sigh. I like Austin's writing, but I was really, really, really NOT in the mood for another Civil War book. Told from Caroline Fletcher's perspective from 1853 until shortly after the war, this felt too long and drawn-out. I loved Eli's faith and strength. In fact, I liked all the slaves. Caroline's spying seemed too far-fetched. Austin obviously did lots of research.
I don't remember who in book club recommended this one . . . not sure if I even bring it up at our next meeting. I just wasn't in the mood for this book.
A Knight in Shining Armor
by Jude Devereaux
Hennepin County Library paperback 464 pages
genre: romance / hist fic & time travel
This was Ann's book club title and I was curious. I've only read one other Devereaux novel (the one with a mention of my friend Lisa Middag in it). It was an enjoyable story so far as she actually includes plot and character development (unlike "pulp" romance). The story bothered me, though. The logistics of time travel are always awkward. Dougless was too wimpy of a heroine for me. I like my protagonists to have a happy ever after. 'Nuff said. Her writing reminds me of Laveryle (?) Spencer, the only romance novelist whose books I would ever read more than once.
Hennepin County Library paperback 464 pages
genre: romance / hist fic & time travel
This was Ann's book club title and I was curious. I've only read one other Devereaux novel (the one with a mention of my friend Lisa Middag in it). It was an enjoyable story so far as she actually includes plot and character development (unlike "pulp" romance). The story bothered me, though. The logistics of time travel are always awkward. Dougless was too wimpy of a heroine for me. I like my protagonists to have a happy ever after. 'Nuff said. Her writing reminds me of Laveryle (?) Spencer, the only romance novelist whose books I would ever read more than once.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
They Called Themselves the K.K.K.
by Susan Campbell Bartoletti
Hennepin County Library hardcover 150 pages
Well-researched and well-written, I didn't enjoy this book. The author did a good job of providing the background for the start of the KKK. The engravings and photographs added a lot of texture. I just don't enjoy reading about such cruelty and hatred. At times, the author seemed to be making such an effort to provide unbiased, factual information that she seemed almost sympathetic to the KKK. Poor white landowners who were land rich and cash poor. The sheer brutality and horror of the KKK's reign were understated, in my opinion. Still, I learned a lot from this book. I had never before known where the name Ku Klux Klan came from. I also didn't realize that the original group were more pranksters than terrorists.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 150 pages
Well-researched and well-written, I didn't enjoy this book. The author did a good job of providing the background for the start of the KKK. The engravings and photographs added a lot of texture. I just don't enjoy reading about such cruelty and hatred. At times, the author seemed to be making such an effort to provide unbiased, factual information that she seemed almost sympathetic to the KKK. Poor white landowners who were land rich and cash poor. The sheer brutality and horror of the KKK's reign were understated, in my opinion. Still, I learned a lot from this book. I had never before known where the name Ku Klux Klan came from. I also didn't realize that the original group were more pranksters than terrorists.
Tuesday, August 09, 2011
Bleak Expectations
by Mark Evans (?)
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 3 hours
genre: British humor
BBC-produced, this was a radio program that felt like it should be watched. The audience laughed at things that had to be facial expressions on the cast of actors. (I envision a Prairie-Home Companion kind of thing. Produced for radio, but with performers in front of an audience.)
Funny twist on Dickens' Great Expectations, this had a Monty Pythonesque feel to it. Funny, odd, and just a bit dark. It had me laughing in my car while I listened.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 3 hours
genre: British humor
BBC-produced, this was a radio program that felt like it should be watched. The audience laughed at things that had to be facial expressions on the cast of actors. (I envision a Prairie-Home Companion kind of thing. Produced for radio, but with performers in front of an audience.)
Funny twist on Dickens' Great Expectations, this had a Monty Pythonesque feel to it. Funny, odd, and just a bit dark. It had me laughing in my car while I listened.
Dirty Little Secrets
by Cynthia Omololu
Hennepin County Library paperback 210 pages
genre: YA fiction, troubled youth, hoarding
This book was incredibly difficult for me to read and I'm not sure why. Once Lucy decided not to call for help or tell the truth, it felt like a train wreck waiting to happen. The truth always comes out (except at the end of this story . . . ). In many ways, this story reminded me of MacCready's Buried. Buried was a much more powerful book, but it was not about hoarding. Perhaps this is the main thing I "got" from the book - how hoarding impacts the children. Never having watched any of the tv shows about this, I guess I'm just unaware. In comparison, my family's tendency toward packrat-ism seems pretty mild.
Hennepin County Library paperback 210 pages
genre: YA fiction, troubled youth, hoarding
This book was incredibly difficult for me to read and I'm not sure why. Once Lucy decided not to call for help or tell the truth, it felt like a train wreck waiting to happen. The truth always comes out (except at the end of this story . . . ). In many ways, this story reminded me of MacCready's Buried. Buried was a much more powerful book, but it was not about hoarding. Perhaps this is the main thing I "got" from the book - how hoarding impacts the children. Never having watched any of the tv shows about this, I guess I'm just unaware. In comparison, my family's tendency toward packrat-ism seems pretty mild.
Hurricanes in Paradise
by Denise Hildreth
Hennepin County Library paperback 365 pages
genre: Christian fiction, relationships
Book club title for August - lovely! Riley Sinclair is working in hospitality on Paradise Island. Recovering from wounds in her past, this Southern belle is doing her best to stay on track. But an eventful week brings difficult bestselling author Laine Fulton, frightened Tamyra, and widow Winnie into her life. These four women all experience breakthroughs and bonding. Wonderful storytelling. (Except for Mitch's plane trip . . . pointless.)
Makes me want to go to the Caribbean!
Hennepin County Library paperback 365 pages
genre: Christian fiction, relationships
Book club title for August - lovely! Riley Sinclair is working in hospitality on Paradise Island. Recovering from wounds in her past, this Southern belle is doing her best to stay on track. But an eventful week brings difficult bestselling author Laine Fulton, frightened Tamyra, and widow Winnie into her life. These four women all experience breakthroughs and bonding. Wonderful storytelling. (Except for Mitch's plane trip . . . pointless.)
Makes me want to go to the Caribbean!
Friday, August 05, 2011
Mindblind
by Jennifer Roy
Hennepin County Library hardcover 249 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, aspbergers
Loved it! Nathaniel Clark is a memorable character who works very hard at functioning in the "normal" world. His mother is extraordinary, his dad is a clueless jerk. His friends are the real deal. Great story.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 249 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, aspbergers
Loved it! Nathaniel Clark is a memorable character who works very hard at functioning in the "normal" world. His mother is extraordinary, his dad is a clueless jerk. His friends are the real deal. Great story.
Trickster: Native American Tales
a graphic collection
edited by Matt Dembicki
Hennepin County Library paperback 231 pages
What an interesting collection . . . Native American storytellers and a wide range of artists. There were specific things that I liked and disliked about the many stories in this collection. It's definitely worth having in my collection. One of my favorites (story-wise) is "How the Alligator Got His Brown Scaly Skin." I like this type of story, where the overbearing character gets his/her comeupance. In many of the trickster tales, I do not like how the trickster character triumphs. The artwork in some of the stories was very jarring. It was interesting to read the bios at the end.
edited by Matt Dembicki
Hennepin County Library paperback 231 pages
What an interesting collection . . . Native American storytellers and a wide range of artists. There were specific things that I liked and disliked about the many stories in this collection. It's definitely worth having in my collection. One of my favorites (story-wise) is "How the Alligator Got His Brown Scaly Skin." I like this type of story, where the overbearing character gets his/her comeupance. In many of the trickster tales, I do not like how the trickster character triumphs. The artwork in some of the stories was very jarring. It was interesting to read the bios at the end.
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
How They Croaked: The Awful Ends of the Awfully Famous
by Georgia Bragg
illustrated by Kevin O'Malley
Hennepin County Library hardcover 163 pages
Interesting, informative, well-designed. Not as gruesome as the warnings describe, but gross enough that most middle schoolers will be caught up in it. Some of these deaths I knew about, but I definitely learned some new things. And yes, I do appreciate modern hygiene, medical knowledge, etc.
Caesar, Cleopatra, Beethoven, Einstein, Curie, etc.
illustrated by Kevin O'Malley
Hennepin County Library hardcover 163 pages
Interesting, informative, well-designed. Not as gruesome as the warnings describe, but gross enough that most middle schoolers will be caught up in it. Some of these deaths I knew about, but I definitely learned some new things. And yes, I do appreciate modern hygiene, medical knowledge, etc.
Caesar, Cleopatra, Beethoven, Einstein, Curie, etc.
Monday, August 01, 2011
Girl, Stolen
by April Henry
Hennepin County Library hardcover 213 pages
genre: YA adventure - kidnapping & danger
Book's blurb: "Sixteen-year-old Cheyenne Wilder is sleeping in the back of the car while her stepmom fills a prescription for antibiotics. Before Cheyenne realizes what's happening, the car is being stolen. Griffin hadn't meant to kidnap Cheyenne, but once his dad finds out that Cheyenne's father is the president of a powerful corporation, everything changes - now there's a reason to keep her. How will Cheyenne survive this nightmare because she's not only sick with pneumonia - she's blind."
The book isn't edgy enough to make you wonder if Cheyenne will make it - clearly she will survive and get back home. The question for me was always about Griffin and his future. Short, easy-to-read, interesting. I'll definitely buy this for my collection. A little bit hoky, but it works okay.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 213 pages
genre: YA adventure - kidnapping & danger
Book's blurb: "Sixteen-year-old Cheyenne Wilder is sleeping in the back of the car while her stepmom fills a prescription for antibiotics. Before Cheyenne realizes what's happening, the car is being stolen. Griffin hadn't meant to kidnap Cheyenne, but once his dad finds out that Cheyenne's father is the president of a powerful corporation, everything changes - now there's a reason to keep her. How will Cheyenne survive this nightmare because she's not only sick with pneumonia - she's blind."
The book isn't edgy enough to make you wonder if Cheyenne will make it - clearly she will survive and get back home. The question for me was always about Griffin and his future. Short, easy-to-read, interesting. I'll definitely buy this for my collection. A little bit hoky, but it works okay.
The Unsinkable Walker Bean
by Aaron Renier
Hennepin County Library paperback 192 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, mystery & adventure
Hmmm. Surprised that I didn't like this more. I love graphic novels in general, but I was more confused than enthralled. I felt as though there was an entire back story that I was missing . . . like this was book two and I needed to read book one to "get" it. Walker is a lovely protagonist (though how his dad - a total jerk - raised such a fine son is baffling). Grandpa asks Walker to follow through on a dangerous task that could save grandpa and all of Winooski Bay. Pirates, sea monsters, inventions, friendships, and many trials ensue. Many of the illustrations were quite involved and bear more looking at than I gave them. I'll probably buy it for my collection at PRMS.
Hennepin County Library paperback 192 pages
genre: YA graphic novel, mystery & adventure
Hmmm. Surprised that I didn't like this more. I love graphic novels in general, but I was more confused than enthralled. I felt as though there was an entire back story that I was missing . . . like this was book two and I needed to read book one to "get" it. Walker is a lovely protagonist (though how his dad - a total jerk - raised such a fine son is baffling). Grandpa asks Walker to follow through on a dangerous task that could save grandpa and all of Winooski Bay. Pirates, sea monsters, inventions, friendships, and many trials ensue. Many of the illustrations were quite involved and bear more looking at than I gave them. I'll probably buy it for my collection at PRMS.
A Long Walk to Water
by Linda Sue Park
Hennepin County Library hardcover 120 pages
genre: realistic fiction
Wow! I see why Sarah Rother wanted to use this with 8th graders - it fits perfectly with our Africa / water unit. Based on Salva Dut's real-life experiences in Sudan in the 1980s, this story alternates between his reality avoiding war and starvation and the story of Nya, a girl in the Sudan in 2008. Her reality involves walking for an entire day, every day, to get water from a mudhole for her family. Two trips barefoot. Until the day strange men show up in her village. Powerful story! Makes me sad, though, at how much we take for granted in our American lives
Hennepin County Library hardcover 120 pages
genre: realistic fiction
Wow! I see why Sarah Rother wanted to use this with 8th graders - it fits perfectly with our Africa / water unit. Based on Salva Dut's real-life experiences in Sudan in the 1980s, this story alternates between his reality avoiding war and starvation and the story of Nya, a girl in the Sudan in 2008. Her reality involves walking for an entire day, every day, to get water from a mudhole for her family. Two trips barefoot. Until the day strange men show up in her village. Powerful story! Makes me sad, though, at how much we take for granted in our American lives
Borrowed Names: poems about Laura Ingalls Wilder, Madame C.J. Walker, Marie Curie, and their Daughters
by Jennine Atkins
Hennepin County Library hardcover 206 pages
genre: biographical poetry
Fascinating concept. Poetry based on the factual evidence of three amazing women and their relationships with their daughters. This actually left me wanting to read more about these women, though I generally liked them better than their daughters! Marie Curie's daughter impressed me most of the younger generation. I hadn't even known that she existed. I read some of this to my mom while she was in the hospital and I think she found it interesting too.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 206 pages
genre: biographical poetry
Fascinating concept. Poetry based on the factual evidence of three amazing women and their relationships with their daughters. This actually left me wanting to read more about these women, though I generally liked them better than their daughters! Marie Curie's daughter impressed me most of the younger generation. I hadn't even known that she existed. I read some of this to my mom while she was in the hospital and I think she found it interesting too.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Yummy: the last days of a south side shorty
by Greg Neri
Hennepin County Lib paperback 94 pages
genre: YA graphic novel non-fic
Yummy was an eleven-year-old boy in Chicago in the 1990s. He murdered and was murdered. His life and death raised awareness and passion. Violence cannot be ignored when children are both the perpetrators and the victims. Done in black and white, this graphic novel could easily be a part of my collection with its realistic portrayal of Yummy's story, without being disturbingly graphic.
Hennepin County Lib paperback 94 pages
genre: YA graphic novel non-fic
Yummy was an eleven-year-old boy in Chicago in the 1990s. He murdered and was murdered. His life and death raised awareness and passion. Violence cannot be ignored when children are both the perpetrators and the victims. Done in black and white, this graphic novel could easily be a part of my collection with its realistic portrayal of Yummy's story, without being disturbingly graphic.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Cutting Myself in Half: 150 Pounds Lost One Byte at a Time
by Taylor LeBaron
and Jack & Mary Branson
Hennepin County Library paperback 188 pages
This caught my eye when I was getting books one day. This young man went from 297 pounds down to 145! His story is incredible and inspirational. His basic tenets are the ones I already know (exercise more, eat less, & eat good foods), but the way he shares his story amazes me.
I know myself pretty well and at age 45, I'm not interested in his Ultimate Fitness Game (treating weight loss like a video game with points). His points on goals and success are good, though. What an incredible kid. I'll buy this for my collection. I think there are some students for whom this would be very meaningful.
and Jack & Mary Branson
Hennepin County Library paperback 188 pages
This caught my eye when I was getting books one day. This young man went from 297 pounds down to 145! His story is incredible and inspirational. His basic tenets are the ones I already know (exercise more, eat less, & eat good foods), but the way he shares his story amazes me.
I know myself pretty well and at age 45, I'm not interested in his Ultimate Fitness Game (treating weight loss like a video game with points). His points on goals and success are good, though. What an incredible kid. I'll buy this for my collection. I think there are some students for whom this would be very meaningful.
Dreamer
by Pam Munoz Ryan
illustrations by Peter Sis
Hennepin County Library hardcover 370 pages
genre: YA fictional biography
This book reminds me a lot of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, except that it seemed to drag on a bit. By the time I got to the end, I had a new interest in the real life of poet Pablo Neruda. The super-large print and interspersed drawings and snippets of poetry should have made the book go quicker, but it didn't. Something failed to grab me. Not sure yet if I'll buy it for PRMS.
I've been trying to crank through the books for Camp Read-a-Lot, but I think I'd better get onto the website and participate in the discussions instead of just doing my own thing.
illustrations by Peter Sis
Hennepin County Library hardcover 370 pages
genre: YA fictional biography
This book reminds me a lot of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, except that it seemed to drag on a bit. By the time I got to the end, I had a new interest in the real life of poet Pablo Neruda. The super-large print and interspersed drawings and snippets of poetry should have made the book go quicker, but it didn't. Something failed to grab me. Not sure yet if I'll buy it for PRMS.
I've been trying to crank through the books for Camp Read-a-Lot, but I think I'd better get onto the website and participate in the discussions instead of just doing my own thing.
Trash
by Andy Mulligan
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 5 hrs 20 min.
read by a cast
genre: YA realistic fiction, mystery
This was incredible. The story never actually says the location of "the city," but I imagined Mexico City. (In looking at reviews, it sounds as though Manilla in the Philippines is more likely). Raphael and his friend Gardo pick trash together in the city dump known as Behala. One day, Raphael finds a purse with a man's wallet, a key, a map, and lots of money. This discovery sends them, along with 10-year-old Rat, on an extremely dangerous path of mystery and corruption. Powerful story!
My only complaint - the audiobook's cast is fabulous *except* for the boy who read Rat's part. His accent was inconsistent (somewhere between French, Scandinavian, and I'm not sure what else). His articulation was almost non-existent, making it hard to hear what he was saying. The few times he slipped into just normal "kid talk" with his own voice, I wondered why the director / producer didn't encourage him to use his regular voice for the entire thing.
I look forward to re-reading a print copy of this book.
Hennepin County Library audioCDs 5 hrs 20 min.
read by a cast
genre: YA realistic fiction, mystery
This was incredible. The story never actually says the location of "the city," but I imagined Mexico City. (In looking at reviews, it sounds as though Manilla in the Philippines is more likely). Raphael and his friend Gardo pick trash together in the city dump known as Behala. One day, Raphael finds a purse with a man's wallet, a key, a map, and lots of money. This discovery sends them, along with 10-year-old Rat, on an extremely dangerous path of mystery and corruption. Powerful story!
My only complaint - the audiobook's cast is fabulous *except* for the boy who read Rat's part. His accent was inconsistent (somewhere between French, Scandinavian, and I'm not sure what else). His articulation was almost non-existent, making it hard to hear what he was saying. The few times he slipped into just normal "kid talk" with his own voice, I wondered why the director / producer didn't encourage him to use his regular voice for the entire thing.
I look forward to re-reading a print copy of this book.
The Good, the Bad, and the Barbie
subtitled A Doll's History and Her Impact on Us (unauthorized)
by Tanya Lee Stone
Hennepin County Library hardcover 110 pages
genre: Non-Fic, culture
Very, very interesting book with excellent photos. I wasn't a huge Barbie fan as a kid and I never hated her, but understand the author's perspective that people either love her or hate her. This creation definitely elicits a lot of passion from people. This was interesting to me, but especially in terms of Ruth Handler's story. I would enjoy reading more about this unusual woman. Fascinating. My favorite quote came at the end of the story.
"I have a pink Barbie T-shirt and I wore it to work the other day and got a look from a guy that was like, 'Oh, how sad, you aspire to be Barbie, can't you aim any higher?' And all I could think was, 'Hey loser, my Barbie had a three-story townhouse with an elevator, a pool she floated around in with her friends when she needed to relax, a plane she could pilot on her own, a camper she could rough it in when she felt like getting back to nature, and she was the sole proprietor of a hair salon with a working blow dryer! And all this without a man in her life or the need to ask anyone for a dime to support her lifestyle. Go Barbie.'" - Jennifer O'Connell
by Tanya Lee Stone
Hennepin County Library hardcover 110 pages
genre: Non-Fic, culture
Very, very interesting book with excellent photos. I wasn't a huge Barbie fan as a kid and I never hated her, but understand the author's perspective that people either love her or hate her. This creation definitely elicits a lot of passion from people. This was interesting to me, but especially in terms of Ruth Handler's story. I would enjoy reading more about this unusual woman. Fascinating. My favorite quote came at the end of the story.
"I have a pink Barbie T-shirt and I wore it to work the other day and got a look from a guy that was like, 'Oh, how sad, you aspire to be Barbie, can't you aim any higher?' And all I could think was, 'Hey loser, my Barbie had a three-story townhouse with an elevator, a pool she floated around in with her friends when she needed to relax, a plane she could pilot on her own, a camper she could rough it in when she felt like getting back to nature, and she was the sole proprietor of a hair salon with a working blow dryer! And all this without a man in her life or the need to ask anyone for a dime to support her lifestyle. Go Barbie.'" - Jennifer O'Connell
Fever Crumb
by Phillip Reeve
Hennepin County Library hardcover 325 pages
genre: YA Sci-Fi dystopia
This one definitely kept my attention. Set so far in the future that the world of technology is a mystery known to specialized engineers, London is a somewhat calm place as nomads move closer. To trade or to invade? Fever Crumb is the only female at the Order of Engineers and has been raised to be logical and unemotional. When archeologist Kit Solent sends for her, she starts to "remember" things that never happened to her. This exciting story is both beautiful and tragic. Fever is a memorable character and I hope there is a sequel in the works!
Hennepin County Library hardcover 325 pages
genre: YA Sci-Fi dystopia
This one definitely kept my attention. Set so far in the future that the world of technology is a mystery known to specialized engineers, London is a somewhat calm place as nomads move closer. To trade or to invade? Fever Crumb is the only female at the Order of Engineers and has been raised to be logical and unemotional. When archeologist Kit Solent sends for her, she starts to "remember" things that never happened to her. This exciting story is both beautiful and tragic. Fever is a memorable character and I hope there is a sequel in the works!
Countdown
by Deborah Wiles
Hennepin County audioCDs 7 hrs 20 min
read by Emma Galvin
genre: YA hist fic, relationships & coming-of-age
I loved this! I'm not sure if my modern middle-schoolers will, though. The historical details are rich indeed, with the early 1960s coming through loud & clear (though I wasn't even born until 1966!). Franny Chapman is starting her transition from childhood to teenager and it isn't going well for her. With strict parents, an older (college age) sister who is looking beyond home life, a "perfect" little brother, and a best friend who's not being so nice, she isn't sure what to do.
This rich story has layers upon layers of beauty, from Uncle Otts and his personal history to Franny's budding love interest Chris. I guess I should buy a copy for PRMS and figure out how to "sell" it in booktalks.
Hennepin County audioCDs 7 hrs 20 min
read by Emma Galvin
genre: YA hist fic, relationships & coming-of-age
I loved this! I'm not sure if my modern middle-schoolers will, though. The historical details are rich indeed, with the early 1960s coming through loud & clear (though I wasn't even born until 1966!). Franny Chapman is starting her transition from childhood to teenager and it isn't going well for her. With strict parents, an older (college age) sister who is looking beyond home life, a "perfect" little brother, and a best friend who's not being so nice, she isn't sure what to do.
This rich story has layers upon layers of beauty, from Uncle Otts and his personal history to Franny's budding love interest Chris. I guess I should buy a copy for PRMS and figure out how to "sell" it in booktalks.
The Book Without Words
by Avi
PRMS hardcover 203 pages
genre: YA historical fiction, magic
Interesting. I thought of including this with our spring medieval hist fic unit, but the magical elements are pretty strong. The factual details jump out at me - lack of hygiene, poverty, illiteracy, etc. But I'm not sure if middle schoolers would clue into that as much as the book of spells that can only be read by a green-eyed person with great desire.
Sybil is a youngster who is happy to have a place to sleep and some food to eat, even though her new master, Thorston, is not kind. He also plans to steal her life force to make himself invincible, but she doesn't know that yet. Odo the talking crow (who's actually a changed goat), Brother Wilfrid the monk, Alfric the green-eyed street urchin, Master Bashcroft the reeve, and others make this tale intriguing if somewhat predictable. I most liked Alfric and Sybil's ability to make friends and care for others.
PRMS hardcover 203 pages
genre: YA historical fiction, magic
Interesting. I thought of including this with our spring medieval hist fic unit, but the magical elements are pretty strong. The factual details jump out at me - lack of hygiene, poverty, illiteracy, etc. But I'm not sure if middle schoolers would clue into that as much as the book of spells that can only be read by a green-eyed person with great desire.
Sybil is a youngster who is happy to have a place to sleep and some food to eat, even though her new master, Thorston, is not kind. He also plans to steal her life force to make himself invincible, but she doesn't know that yet. Odo the talking crow (who's actually a changed goat), Brother Wilfrid the monk, Alfric the green-eyed street urchin, Master Bashcroft the reeve, and others make this tale intriguing if somewhat predictable. I most liked Alfric and Sybil's ability to make friends and care for others.
Monday, July 11, 2011
The Eyre Affair
by Jasper Fforde
lake book paperback . . .
genre: literary mystery
Re-read. Love this book. Clever and weird. Delightful.
12.18.15 Re-read again. Pure escapism.
I absolutely love this book! I love the cleverness, the adventure, the allusions, and of course, Thursday Next as the heroine who gets Rochester and Jane to a happier ending.
lake book paperback . . .
genre: literary mystery
Re-read. Love this book. Clever and weird. Delightful.
12.18.15 Re-read again. Pure escapism.
I absolutely love this book! I love the cleverness, the adventure, the allusions, and of course, Thursday Next as the heroine who gets Rochester and Jane to a happier ending.
The Clocks
by Agatha Christie
lake book paperback 246 pages
genre: Murder mystery
Barely a Hercules Poirot story at all. Told by Colin Lamb (code name for a secret agent), friend of HP and Inspector Hardcastle. Too many subplots and characters. Didn't see it coming together and yet wasn't surprised at all. Kind of bored, actually.
lake book paperback 246 pages
genre: Murder mystery
Barely a Hercules Poirot story at all. Told by Colin Lamb (code name for a secret agent), friend of HP and Inspector Hardcastle. Too many subplots and characters. Didn't see it coming together and yet wasn't surprised at all. Kind of bored, actually.
The ABC Murders
by Agatha Christie
lake book paperback 224 pages
genre: murder mystery
Hercules Poirot sees past the false clues to the truth. The ABC railway guides, the letters, the victims Ascher in Andover, Barnard in Bexhill, Clarke in C . . . Intriguing story. I did NOT guess the ending.
lake book paperback 224 pages
genre: murder mystery
Hercules Poirot sees past the false clues to the truth. The ABC railway guides, the letters, the victims Ascher in Andover, Barnard in Bexhill, Clarke in C . . . Intriguing story. I did NOT guess the ending.
The Sweetest Thing
by Elizabeth Musser
Hennepin County Library paperback 394 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction, relationships, mystery
Loved it! Can hardly wait 'til book club!
"Perri" Anne Perrin and Mary "Dobbs" Dillard do NOT hit it off on their first meeting. Set during the Great Depression (1933-39), Perri is a wealthy Atlanta socialite and Dobbs is a poor preacher's daughter who has come to stay with her Aunt Josie to go to school. When Perri's dad commits suicide, though, her world is turned inside out and Dobbs truly befriends her.
Suicide, depression, finances, status.
Faith, loss of faith, evangelism.
Theft, honesty, evidence, safety.
Family, love, truth, past.
Jackie, Frances, Coobie.
Mrs. Singleton, Barbara, Irvin.
Hank, Spalding, Andrew, Philip, Luke.
Parthenia, Cornelius, Anna, & Hosea.
Dellareen, Jimmy, & 5 kids.
Mr. Bill Robinson.
LOTS of other characters! Parthenia my favorite.
pg. 266 Mrs. Dillard:
"When you love, it will hurt. You have to choose to forgive, again and again. But it's worth it. That's the crux of human relationships, Dobbs. The sweetest thing. Loving deeply. And forgiving. Your father loves you so much. Talk to him. Ask him your questions. Don't be afraid of your anger and your hurt."
pg. 381 Parthenia:
" . . . I said to myse'f that once there's a bad weed in ya - well, apart from the Good Lawd ripping it out - it's gonna stay." (referring to Mr. Robinson.
Hennepin County Library paperback 394 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction, relationships, mystery
Loved it! Can hardly wait 'til book club!
"Perri" Anne Perrin and Mary "Dobbs" Dillard do NOT hit it off on their first meeting. Set during the Great Depression (1933-39), Perri is a wealthy Atlanta socialite and Dobbs is a poor preacher's daughter who has come to stay with her Aunt Josie to go to school. When Perri's dad commits suicide, though, her world is turned inside out and Dobbs truly befriends her.
Suicide, depression, finances, status.
Faith, loss of faith, evangelism.
Theft, honesty, evidence, safety.
Family, love, truth, past.
Jackie, Frances, Coobie.
Mrs. Singleton, Barbara, Irvin.
Hank, Spalding, Andrew, Philip, Luke.
Parthenia, Cornelius, Anna, & Hosea.
Dellareen, Jimmy, & 5 kids.
Mr. Bill Robinson.
LOTS of other characters! Parthenia my favorite.
pg. 266 Mrs. Dillard:
"When you love, it will hurt. You have to choose to forgive, again and again. But it's worth it. That's the crux of human relationships, Dobbs. The sweetest thing. Loving deeply. And forgiving. Your father loves you so much. Talk to him. Ask him your questions. Don't be afraid of your anger and your hurt."
pg. 381 Parthenia:
" . . . I said to myse'f that once there's a bad weed in ya - well, apart from the Good Lawd ripping it out - it's gonna stay." (referring to Mr. Robinson.
Mrs. Pollifax books - various and brief
by Dorothy Gilman
lots of re-reading
genre: spy, mystery
Faves: Mrs. Pollifax's personality & the way people underestimate her
Disfaves: marriages in every book by people who met less than a week earlier. What?!
lots of re-reading
genre: spy, mystery
Faves: Mrs. Pollifax's personality & the way people underestimate her
Disfaves: marriages in every book by people who met less than a week earlier. What?!
Starclimber
by Kenneth Oppel
PRMS hardcover 390 pages
genre: YA adventure, romance
In this story, Otto Lunardi offers Kate and Matt the chance to travel to outer space in a new ship he's had built. Although Matt is one of one hundred candidates going through intensely tough training to narrow the field to a few, it's never really a question of IF he'll be chosen, but how. In all three books of this series, I like Matt's underdog status, his creativity and problem-solving in the face of danger, and his general attitude. As usual, I can't *stand* Kate as a character. She is selfish, egocentric, and arrogant. Women's rights to vote, the reality of Heaven, and other themes are woven throughout.
PRMS hardcover 390 pages
genre: YA adventure, romance
In this story, Otto Lunardi offers Kate and Matt the chance to travel to outer space in a new ship he's had built. Although Matt is one of one hundred candidates going through intensely tough training to narrow the field to a few, it's never really a question of IF he'll be chosen, but how. In all three books of this series, I like Matt's underdog status, his creativity and problem-solving in the face of danger, and his general attitude. As usual, I can't *stand* Kate as a character. She is selfish, egocentric, and arrogant. Women's rights to vote, the reality of Heaven, and other themes are woven throughout.
Elijah of Buxton
by Christopher Paul Curtis
PRMS paperback 341 pages
genre: YA historical fiction
I started this as an audiobook while I used the elliptical at school. This is not one of my favorite CPC books, but it has a wealth of topics for discussion. My least favorite part of the story was the "preacher" and his selfish, immoral choices. My next least favorite part was Elijah's own gullibility. Grr! And I really, really disliked a dear character's death . . . however, there was so much here of beauty, truth, and pain. I know how carefully the author researches his topics and I found the story of Buxton to be encouraging and hopeful. Our sixth grade LAX classes read this book. It would be fun to get in on the discussions this coming school year.
PRMS paperback 341 pages
genre: YA historical fiction
I started this as an audiobook while I used the elliptical at school. This is not one of my favorite CPC books, but it has a wealth of topics for discussion. My least favorite part of the story was the "preacher" and his selfish, immoral choices. My next least favorite part was Elijah's own gullibility. Grr! And I really, really disliked a dear character's death . . . however, there was so much here of beauty, truth, and pain. I know how carefully the author researches his topics and I found the story of Buxton to be encouraging and hopeful. Our sixth grade LAX classes read this book. It would be fun to get in on the discussions this coming school year.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
10 Things to do Before I Die
by Daniel Ehrenhaft
PRMS hardcover 219 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age
This book went from intriguing to questionable to downright stupid to mildly redeeming - maybe. The premise is the classic "what would you do if you knew you only had 24 hours to live?" Ted Burger spends much of his time at the Circle Eat Diner with his best friend Mark and Mark's girlfriend Nikki.
My favorite part was when Ted saw Billy Rifkin and saw someone whose life had changed in a meaningful way. I also liked his epiphany that sex is not to be treated lightly. The rest of the story and the characters just didn't work very well. I like Ehrenhaft's more recent work better. This one just falls short.
PRMS hardcover 219 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age
This book went from intriguing to questionable to downright stupid to mildly redeeming - maybe. The premise is the classic "what would you do if you knew you only had 24 hours to live?" Ted Burger spends much of his time at the Circle Eat Diner with his best friend Mark and Mark's girlfriend Nikki.
My favorite part was when Ted saw Billy Rifkin and saw someone whose life had changed in a meaningful way. I also liked his epiphany that sex is not to be treated lightly. The rest of the story and the characters just didn't work very well. I like Ehrenhaft's more recent work better. This one just falls short.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
A Separate Peace
by John Knowles
PRMS hard cover 204 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age, historical fiction 1940s
I can't even remember the protagonist's name! His story is defined by his relationship with Finny (Phineas) while the two teenagers are at Devon in New England during the outset of WWII. I read this because a student in grade 8 LAX was complaining about it and I was curious. There were portions were I was bored, and many I want to go back and re-read. What a rich book! There is much here to discuss. As I was reading it, I thought of Gallagher's Readicide. . . what a book to be careful in neither overteaching nor underteaching. Almost makes me want to be an English teacher again!
PRMS hard cover 204 pages
genre: YA coming-of-age, historical fiction 1940s
I can't even remember the protagonist's name! His story is defined by his relationship with Finny (Phineas) while the two teenagers are at Devon in New England during the outset of WWII. I read this because a student in grade 8 LAX was complaining about it and I was curious. There were portions were I was bored, and many I want to go back and re-read. What a rich book! There is much here to discuss. As I was reading it, I thought of Gallagher's Readicide. . . what a book to be careful in neither overteaching nor underteaching. Almost makes me want to be an English teacher again!
June Bug
by Chris Fabry
Hennepin County Library paperback 326 pages
genre: Christian fiction, mystery
Spoilers ahead . . .
Liked it, but didn't finish before our book club meeting. Jodi did NOT like it. Fabry leaves some pretty glaring loose ends. . . makes me want to read Dogwood to see if he addresses them. Why does John just walk away from June Bug after raising her for seven years? What happens with Sheila? How does June Bug reconcile her history with her new life? Will Mae and Leason parent June Bug any better than they did Dana?
The story opens in a Walmart with June Bug seeing her own photo age-progressed. The realization that her dad may not be her dad leads her to question many things about their life together. I liked the way the story unfolded, but agree that there were too many things that didn't fit. The one thing that most bothered me was that no one was punished for the attempted murder and subsequent kidnapping of a little girl - at least not in this story. Dana, Walker, and John all walked away.
Still, I like this author's storytelling style and am interested in trying another of his books.
Hennepin County Library paperback 326 pages
genre: Christian fiction, mystery
Spoilers ahead . . .
Liked it, but didn't finish before our book club meeting. Jodi did NOT like it. Fabry leaves some pretty glaring loose ends. . . makes me want to read Dogwood to see if he addresses them. Why does John just walk away from June Bug after raising her for seven years? What happens with Sheila? How does June Bug reconcile her history with her new life? Will Mae and Leason parent June Bug any better than they did Dana?
The story opens in a Walmart with June Bug seeing her own photo age-progressed. The realization that her dad may not be her dad leads her to question many things about their life together. I liked the way the story unfolded, but agree that there were too many things that didn't fit. The one thing that most bothered me was that no one was punished for the attempted murder and subsequent kidnapping of a little girl - at least not in this story. Dana, Walker, and John all walked away.
Still, I like this author's storytelling style and am interested in trying another of his books.
Monday, June 06, 2011
Rainbow Jordan
by Alice Childress
PRMS paperback 127 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, inner city
I really enjoyed this, but am not sure it would appeal to students. I thought about asking Jhanae or Tequilla to read it and give me their opinions, but I'm not sure they'd be interested. Rainbow (aka "Rainey") has an irresponsible mother who's gone a lot. Rainbow goes to spend time with Josie (foster care) and the story is told primarily from the perspective of these two - a 14-year-old and a 57-year-old. Rainbow's mother Kathie also has a "voice," but it isn't prominent.
Sad story, but Rainbow is a mature young lady who learns a bit and grows up through her life's challenges. I liked it.
PRMS paperback 127 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, inner city
I really enjoyed this, but am not sure it would appeal to students. I thought about asking Jhanae or Tequilla to read it and give me their opinions, but I'm not sure they'd be interested. Rainbow (aka "Rainey") has an irresponsible mother who's gone a lot. Rainbow goes to spend time with Josie (foster care) and the story is told primarily from the perspective of these two - a 14-year-old and a 57-year-old. Rainbow's mother Kathie also has a "voice," but it isn't prominent.
Sad story, but Rainbow is a mature young lady who learns a bit and grows up through her life's challenges. I liked it.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Readicide: How Schools Are Killing Reading and What You Can Do About It
by Kelly Gallagher
PRMS paperback 118 pages
genre: professional, education
I finally finished the last ten pages . . . after starting it last fall. Incredible book. Should be mandatory reading for all English / language arts teachers. I hate that we as educators often have the opposite effect than what we desire! Instead of creating lifelong readers, we kill the love of reading. Fantastic book with practical advice. There's a fine distinction between under & over teaching literature. Free reading "in the flow" is crucial! Loved it.
PRMS paperback 118 pages
genre: professional, education
I finally finished the last ten pages . . . after starting it last fall. Incredible book. Should be mandatory reading for all English / language arts teachers. I hate that we as educators often have the opposite effect than what we desire! Instead of creating lifelong readers, we kill the love of reading. Fantastic book with practical advice. There's a fine distinction between under & over teaching literature. Free reading "in the flow" is crucial! Loved it.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
The Art of Racing in the Rain
by Garth Stein
PRMS paperback 321 pages
genre: dog fiction
Told from Enzo's point of view, this is a story of life and racing. Chapter one started with an old dog, ready to die. It was sad from the get-go. Enzo tells his life's story, especially as it intertwines with his owner Denny's life. I was crying so hard toward the end that I couldn't finish reading it until later. I was so angry at Denny's in-laws! And to know that there are people like that makes me sad.
I am not a believer in the idea of reincarnation, but for Enzo to want to come back as a human made sense for the story. Loved it!
PRMS paperback 321 pages
genre: dog fiction
Told from Enzo's point of view, this is a story of life and racing. Chapter one started with an old dog, ready to die. It was sad from the get-go. Enzo tells his life's story, especially as it intertwines with his owner Denny's life. I was crying so hard toward the end that I couldn't finish reading it until later. I was so angry at Denny's in-laws! And to know that there are people like that makes me sad.
I am not a believer in the idea of reincarnation, but for Enzo to want to come back as a human made sense for the story. Loved it!
Code Orange
by Caroline B. Cooney
PRMS paperback 198 pages
genre: YA science thriller
I wish I'd finished it *before* the 7th grade book club discussed it, but it was enjoyable. Mitty is a slacker rich kid at a private school in NYC. He has to research an infectious disease and what he learns about smallpox changes his world. Based on a true event (someone finding smallpox scabs in an old, old book), Cooney has used modern technology, situations, and politics to write a believable story. I didn't like Mitty as a character - he is WAY too much of a slacker kid with attitude, it was an enjoyable read.
PRMS paperback 198 pages
genre: YA science thriller
I wish I'd finished it *before* the 7th grade book club discussed it, but it was enjoyable. Mitty is a slacker rich kid at a private school in NYC. He has to research an infectious disease and what he learns about smallpox changes his world. Based on a true event (someone finding smallpox scabs in an old, old book), Cooney has used modern technology, situations, and politics to write a believable story. I didn't like Mitty as a character - he is WAY too much of a slacker kid with attitude, it was an enjoyable read.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Animal Farm
by George Orwell
Dakota County Library audiobook, 3.25 hours
read by Patrick Tull
genre: ? dystopia? Social commentary
Again, wrong book for me at the time. This is one I feel I ought to have read at some point in the last 25 years, so I finally read it. I'm glad it's short. The corruption and growing cruelty of the pigs toward the other animals frustrated me. Their willingness to consider their own memories wrong and accept whatever Napoleon told them made me sad. I had to take many breaks from the story, just because it bothered me so much. I probably should read some analytical studies of it, but I'm just glad I'm done.
Dakota County Library audiobook, 3.25 hours
read by Patrick Tull
genre: ? dystopia? Social commentary
Again, wrong book for me at the time. This is one I feel I ought to have read at some point in the last 25 years, so I finally read it. I'm glad it's short. The corruption and growing cruelty of the pigs toward the other animals frustrated me. Their willingness to consider their own memories wrong and accept whatever Napoleon told them made me sad. I had to take many breaks from the story, just because it bothered me so much. I probably should read some analytical studies of it, but I'm just glad I'm done.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
The Lost Quilter
by Jennifer Chiaverini
Carver County Library, paperback 337 pages
genre: historical fiction, slavery, quilting
Sigh. When I impulsively grabbed this at the library TWO MONTHS ago, I was in the mood for a little quilting "escape." Too busy, it sat & I renewed it & it sat . . . until I could renew it no more. So I HAD to read it. Alas, it was a slavery story with quilting in it and not the sweet quilting escapism I longed for. But of course I read the whole thing, because that's the kind of person I am. So now I have to pay the late fees, I haven't done any quilting, and I find slavery stories in general to be incredibly depressing. What human beings have justified as acceptable is absolutely intolerable.
Joanna's story is ultimately a story of triumph over evil, but it wasn't an especially fun read. Well-written, but not what I was looking for in a Chiaverini book.
Carver County Library, paperback 337 pages
genre: historical fiction, slavery, quilting
Sigh. When I impulsively grabbed this at the library TWO MONTHS ago, I was in the mood for a little quilting "escape." Too busy, it sat & I renewed it & it sat . . . until I could renew it no more. So I HAD to read it. Alas, it was a slavery story with quilting in it and not the sweet quilting escapism I longed for. But of course I read the whole thing, because that's the kind of person I am. So now I have to pay the late fees, I haven't done any quilting, and I find slavery stories in general to be incredibly depressing. What human beings have justified as acceptable is absolutely intolerable.
Joanna's story is ultimately a story of triumph over evil, but it wasn't an especially fun read. Well-written, but not what I was looking for in a Chiaverini book.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Freedom
by Jonathan Franzen
Chanhassen H.S. hardcover, 562 pages
genre: ? Realistic fiction, relationships
This was torture. It has taken me way, way too long to read. I kept looking for redeeming qualities. . . it was our PRMS April book club title, but we kept having to reschedule. Now we're going to discuss it in May with our May title. I think a lot of people bailed on it. Not sure why it garnered so much attention this past year. I think Patty, Walter, Richard, Joey, Lalitha, etc. think too much of themselves and their sex lives. It will be interesting to hear what others have to say about it.
Chanhassen H.S. hardcover, 562 pages
genre: ? Realistic fiction, relationships
This was torture. It has taken me way, way too long to read. I kept looking for redeeming qualities. . . it was our PRMS April book club title, but we kept having to reschedule. Now we're going to discuss it in May with our May title. I think a lot of people bailed on it. Not sure why it garnered so much attention this past year. I think Patty, Walter, Richard, Joey, Lalitha, etc. think too much of themselves and their sex lives. It will be interesting to hear what others have to say about it.
On the Bright Side, I'm Now the Girlfriend of a Sex God
by Louise Rennison
Dakota County Library, audioCDs
read by Stina Nielsen
genre: YA humor, British
This wasn't as funny as the first book, but I still chuckled a few times (mostly at Angus). Georgia is a bit too self-centered and selfish (especially in her treatment of her best friend Jas) for me to enjoy her much. She is obsessed with Robbie (aka The Sex God) and doesn't really take any one else's feelings into much account.
Dakota County Library, audioCDs
read by Stina Nielsen
genre: YA humor, British
This wasn't as funny as the first book, but I still chuckled a few times (mostly at Angus). Georgia is a bit too self-centered and selfish (especially in her treatment of her best friend Jas) for me to enjoy her much. She is obsessed with Robbie (aka The Sex God) and doesn't really take any one else's feelings into much account.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Buried
by Robin Merrow MacCready
Carver County Library hardcover
genre: YA realistic fiction
From Amazon: "Claudine Carbonneau, a high-school senior in Deep Cove, ME, wakes up to find her alcoholic mother gone, leaving the teen to clean up their trashed home and to explain her mother's absence."
This book really gripped me. As Claudine's behavior becomes more & more obsessively OCD and more clues come to light about her mother's disappearance, I just wanted to hug her and get her some help. The story (to me) is more about OCD than alcoholism. Her mother's choices really impacted this girl. Powerful.
Carver County Library hardcover
genre: YA realistic fiction
From Amazon: "Claudine Carbonneau, a high-school senior in Deep Cove, ME, wakes up to find her alcoholic mother gone, leaving the teen to clean up their trashed home and to explain her mother's absence."
This book really gripped me. As Claudine's behavior becomes more & more obsessively OCD and more clues come to light about her mother's disappearance, I just wanted to hug her and get her some help. The story (to me) is more about OCD than alcoholism. Her mother's choices really impacted this girl. Powerful.
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