by Kathryn Erskine
NPMS paperback 235 pages
genre: realistic fiction
Oh my! Initially, I started reading this to be ready as a sub with some sixth graders. I wasn't thrilled with the pov - Caitlin, a fifth grader with Aspberger's. As I read, though, I wanted to know how it turned out. I finished it before the end of the day and had tears rolling down my face before the end!
Page 8 - Caitlin's "My Manners" chart and stickers . . . stress until she remembers to say "You're Welcome" in response to someone's "Thank You." Success! This manners chart and her references to it and her conversation with Michael all made the story richer.
Page 42 - "That's why emotions are evil and I hate them! Especially crying. I don't Get It." The portrayal of someone who struggles to understand people's emotions was very realistically portrayed. Empathy was a huge theme of this book.
Page 163 - closure. the chest. Dad. Oh my! "Maybe we can make something good and strong and beautiful come out of this." This was one of the parts where I cried. Too powerful.
Page 180 - "'Class!' Mr. Mason shouts. He always shouts. It's just what PE teachers do." This made me smile and think of Gaz for some reason . . .
Page 183 - "I try to remind her but Emma's voice takes up all the room. When she grows up she should be one of those TV interviewers on Fox Five News who doesn't let anyone else talk even if they try." This also made me laugh, but not in a nice way.
One of my favorite scenes was on the playground with Caitlin, Josh, and Michael when she thinks Josh is bullying Michael. Powerful!
The Author's Note was very interesting. I'd like to read more of her work.
Eagle Scout / TKaM - Jem and Scout (and Atticus) / school shooting / bullying / empathy / . . . so much woven into this quick read. I loved it!
Friday, February 28, 2020
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Not sure where I heard these . . .
I wrote down fragments of quotations, presumably while listening to an audiobook. But I don't know which one! It would have been in the last month or two. I want to get rid of this scrap of paper, so I guess I'll play detective later.
The first one I thought was Tolstoy, but when I looked it up, it was apparently said by Arthur Schopenhauer. "Wealth is like sea-water; the more we drink, the thirstier we become; and the same is true of fame." I also had the words a bit different . . . ugh! I hate inaccuracies. Research forthcoming . . .
I also made a note to read Leo Tolstoy's The Confession. As I looked that one up, I see that it is called "A Confession." My notes say "search for meaning, purpose." Wikipedia says "a brief autobiographical story of the author's struggle with a mid-life existential crisis. It describes his search for the answer to the ultimate philosophical question: "If God does not exist, since death is inevitable, what is the meaning of life?." Without the answer to this, for him, life had become "impossible"." I'm intrigued, but not adding it to my list right now.
The first one I thought was Tolstoy, but when I looked it up, it was apparently said by Arthur Schopenhauer. "Wealth is like sea-water; the more we drink, the thirstier we become; and the same is true of fame." I also had the words a bit different . . . ugh! I hate inaccuracies. Research forthcoming . . .
I also made a note to read Leo Tolstoy's The Confession. As I looked that one up, I see that it is called "A Confession." My notes say "search for meaning, purpose." Wikipedia says "a brief autobiographical story of the author's struggle with a mid-life existential crisis. It describes his search for the answer to the ultimate philosophical question: "If God does not exist, since death is inevitable, what is the meaning of life?." Without the answer to this, for him, life had become "impossible"." I'm intrigued, but not adding it to my list right now.
“I think everybody should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that it's not the answer.” - Jim Carrey. This one struck me because so many people think that rich and famous people "have it all" and don't understand how they can give up on life. There's a different answer, people! Jesus is the answer.
"You can have everything in the world and still be the loneliest man. And
that is the most bitter type of loneliness, success has brought me
world idolisation and millions of pounds. But it's prevented me from
having the one thing we all need: A loving, ongoing relationship." Freddie Mercury. So very sad.
I want to move on with my day, and now I can get rid of this scrap of paper. Looking at this entry, I want to take more time to read and ponder poetry, philosophy, Scripture, life. I'm in a slo-mo mood today (the day after I started this entry!) and yet I need to go-go-go.
Wednesday, February 19, 2020
Red's Planet
by Eddie Pittman
Hennepin County Library hardcover 192 pages
genre: YA fantasy graphic novel
I got this for some young friends (one of whom already read it) and gave it a look-see. "Red" (who has red hair but hates being called that) wants to get out of her newest foster home. While sitting in a vintage police car, she is beamed up by aliens. Quirky interesting story. I almost want to get volume 2 . . . the little blue frog-like things were pretty entertaining.
Hennepin County Library hardcover 192 pages
genre: YA fantasy graphic novel
I got this for some young friends (one of whom already read it) and gave it a look-see. "Red" (who has red hair but hates being called that) wants to get out of her newest foster home. While sitting in a vintage police car, she is beamed up by aliens. Quirky interesting story. I almost want to get volume 2 . . . the little blue frog-like things were pretty entertaining.
Cut the Clutter: A Simple Organization Plan for a Clean and Tidy Home
by Cynthia Townley Ewer
Hennepin County Library paperback 231 pages plus resources
genre: non-fiction, organization
This DK book is very appealing to look at, but I found it less helpful than Simply Clean. It ended up being a skim-read for sections not relevant to me. It also seemed repetitive.
The pages on "clutter personality" were interesting . . . but mostly in terms of other people I know.
Hennepin County Library paperback 231 pages plus resources
genre: non-fiction, organization
This DK book is very appealing to look at, but I found it less helpful than Simply Clean. It ended up being a skim-read for sections not relevant to me. It also seemed repetitive.
The pages on "clutter personality" were interesting . . . but mostly in terms of other people I know.
- The hoarder - "This might come in handy someday."
- The deferrer - "I'll think about that tomorrow."
- The rebel - "I don't wanna and you can't make me!"
- The perfectionist - "Next week, I'll organize everything . . . perfectly."
- The sentimentalist - "Oh, the little darling!"
The Bright Unknown
by Elizabeth Byler Younts
Hennepin County Library paperback 351 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction
This is our February book club title. I was trying to read it quickly so I could share it with someone else. I finished it fairly quickly, but have had an overbooked schedule.
Set in the past (1923-1941) and the more recent past (1990), this book follows the life story of Brighton / Nell Friedrich. She was born in an insane asylum to a mother who was never really able to mother her. Young nurse Joann ("Nursey") stepped in to give her as normal a childhood as possible.
The time jumps were confusing to me at first, but at least they were all told from Brighton's point of view. If she's 67 in 1990, then she was born in 1923. Then we go to 1937 and she's 14. Then we're in 1928 with five-year-old Brighton. My brain was a little slow to catch on. The author did a fine job setting up the story. There were some "guesses" I was wrong about and some I just knew. Discussing this will be fun.
Page 1 - "Recently I heard a girl say the words old school, so I guess that's the new way to say what I am. There's something funny about having a new way to say old-fashioned."
This just tickled my funny bone. Yes, it is funny to have a new way to say old-fashioned!
Page 37 - "'Only through death, chica,' and then she crossed herself. It made me wonder why we cried when somebody died and they got to go to heaven. Shouldn't we cry because we have to stay?"
This was the 1933 section, and I love how that capture's a child's innocent thinking. Grief and eternal life are tough concepts for many adults! A child's thinking is often more straightforward.
Page 95 - "I stayed in bed the next morning. I couldn't get up. My body wasn't stronger than my mind."
This made me think of our last book which dealt with depression. I'm so glad that I don't struggle with it, but I want to be compassionate toward those who do struggle.
Page 147 - "Words are veils and masks, and there's always something more on the other side of them than we want to believe."
This is just after she's written about words like mentally ill, mad, insane . . . words can be used to deceive as well as to elucidate. I love words and looking at how they convey meaning!
Page 151 - "It takes gumption to live, you know, and all the grit you can muster, though there were times in the earlier days I nearly gave up."
Again, this language resonated for me even though I've not struggled with depression. Giving up is sometimes seen as the best (or only) option and that makes me sad.
I really enjoyed this story. Brighton, Angel, Grace . . . these characters as well as the photography, the societal changes, and other elements will make it a delight to discuss on Monday.
Hennepin County Library paperback 351 pages
genre: Christian historical fiction
This is our February book club title. I was trying to read it quickly so I could share it with someone else. I finished it fairly quickly, but have had an overbooked schedule.
Set in the past (1923-1941) and the more recent past (1990), this book follows the life story of Brighton / Nell Friedrich. She was born in an insane asylum to a mother who was never really able to mother her. Young nurse Joann ("Nursey") stepped in to give her as normal a childhood as possible.
The time jumps were confusing to me at first, but at least they were all told from Brighton's point of view. If she's 67 in 1990, then she was born in 1923. Then we go to 1937 and she's 14. Then we're in 1928 with five-year-old Brighton. My brain was a little slow to catch on. The author did a fine job setting up the story. There were some "guesses" I was wrong about and some I just knew. Discussing this will be fun.
Page 1 - "Recently I heard a girl say the words old school, so I guess that's the new way to say what I am. There's something funny about having a new way to say old-fashioned."
This just tickled my funny bone. Yes, it is funny to have a new way to say old-fashioned!
Page 37 - "'Only through death, chica,' and then she crossed herself. It made me wonder why we cried when somebody died and they got to go to heaven. Shouldn't we cry because we have to stay?"
This was the 1933 section, and I love how that capture's a child's innocent thinking. Grief and eternal life are tough concepts for many adults! A child's thinking is often more straightforward.
Page 95 - "I stayed in bed the next morning. I couldn't get up. My body wasn't stronger than my mind."
This made me think of our last book which dealt with depression. I'm so glad that I don't struggle with it, but I want to be compassionate toward those who do struggle.
Page 147 - "Words are veils and masks, and there's always something more on the other side of them than we want to believe."
This is just after she's written about words like mentally ill, mad, insane . . . words can be used to deceive as well as to elucidate. I love words and looking at how they convey meaning!
Page 151 - "It takes gumption to live, you know, and all the grit you can muster, though there were times in the earlier days I nearly gave up."
Again, this language resonated for me even though I've not struggled with depression. Giving up is sometimes seen as the best (or only) option and that makes me sad.
I really enjoyed this story. Brighton, Angel, Grace . . . these characters as well as the photography, the societal changes, and other elements will make it a delight to discuss on Monday.
Saturday, February 15, 2020
Tyrannosaurus Ralph
by Nate Evans and Vince Evans
Hennepin County Library paperback 178 pages
genre: YA graphic novel fantasy
I really enjoyed this! Ralph is afraid of the local bully, but then gets zapped into a T-Rex body to fight for planet Earth. Goofy, action-packed, fun. I got this for a boy at our church, but read it myself first!
Hennepin County Library paperback 178 pages
genre: YA graphic novel fantasy
I really enjoyed this! Ralph is afraid of the local bully, but then gets zapped into a T-Rex body to fight for planet Earth. Goofy, action-packed, fun. I got this for a boy at our church, but read it myself first!
Where the Crawdads Sing
by Delia Owens
Scott County Library hardcover 368 pages
genre: realistic fiction
Oh. My. Word. Two different people highly recommended this book to me (Brooke and Mary V). I was on the library waiting list for a while. I see why it's so popular!
I want to be careful not to write any spoilers, so I will just say that I made some guesses and was wrong. It was a page-turner! I finished it shortly after starting it. I will certainly read it again. (And this is the author's first fiction book! She has written some non-fiction.)
***Spoiler Alert! After blogging, I realized that some of the things I commented on might ruin the story for another reader. Please just read this book! It's really well-written.***
Page 111 - First place I saw the title reference. "'Well, we better hide way out there where the crawdads sing. I pity any foster parents who take you on.' Tate's whole face smiled. 'What d'ya mean, where the crawdads sing? Ma used to say that.' . . . 'Just means far in the bush where critters are wild, still behaving like critters.'"
Page 222 - This may be the first time I cried. Kya went to Jumpin's and gave him a copy of her book. "She kept on buying gas and supplies from him but never accepted a handout from them again. And each time she came to his wharf, she saw her book propped up in the tiny window for all to see. As a father would have shown it."
Page 240 - "Her mind invented pictures to go with the stories. Family scraps and shreds Kya never thought she'd have." Oh! This author crafted her story so beautifully! The two time periods / storylines are woven so well. The heartache for the little girl is leavened with some loving individuals.
Page 276 - I marked this page because after many references to the poetry of Amanda Hamilton, I thought, "I need to get a book of her poetry!" Read the book . . . just read the book!
Page 289 - Animals can be absolutely amazing! I loved the jail house cat, Sunday Justice. "Finally, he settled as though he had nested here every night of his life. He looked at her. Gently she touched his head, then scratched his neck. A loud purr erupted like a current. She closed her eyes at such easy acceptance. A deep pause in a lifetime of longing."
Page 355 - "Yesterday the cemetery moved with villagers, like constant ants, including all the fishermen and shopkeepers, who had come to bury Scupper." I went from happily relieved to incredibly sad for Tate. What a moving book!
Page 361 - By the end of the book, I was just sobbing. "Standing on the porch, Mabel rushed to Kya. They hugged, rocking back and forth, crying. 'Lawd, he loved ya like his own dawder,' Mabel said. 'I know,' Kya said, 'and he was my pa.'"
I read through this book so quickly. I'm on another waiting list for the audiobook, and I am sure I will hear and notice even more beauty on a second time through. What a fantastic book! The NYT book review says in part: "Painfully beautiful . . . At once a murder mystery, a coming-of-age narrative, and a celebration of nature." Amen!
Scott County Library hardcover 368 pages
genre: realistic fiction
Oh. My. Word. Two different people highly recommended this book to me (Brooke and Mary V). I was on the library waiting list for a while. I see why it's so popular!
I want to be careful not to write any spoilers, so I will just say that I made some guesses and was wrong. It was a page-turner! I finished it shortly after starting it. I will certainly read it again. (And this is the author's first fiction book! She has written some non-fiction.)
***Spoiler Alert! After blogging, I realized that some of the things I commented on might ruin the story for another reader. Please just read this book! It's really well-written.***
Page 111 - First place I saw the title reference. "'Well, we better hide way out there where the crawdads sing. I pity any foster parents who take you on.' Tate's whole face smiled. 'What d'ya mean, where the crawdads sing? Ma used to say that.' . . . 'Just means far in the bush where critters are wild, still behaving like critters.'"
Page 222 - This may be the first time I cried. Kya went to Jumpin's and gave him a copy of her book. "She kept on buying gas and supplies from him but never accepted a handout from them again. And each time she came to his wharf, she saw her book propped up in the tiny window for all to see. As a father would have shown it."
Page 240 - "Her mind invented pictures to go with the stories. Family scraps and shreds Kya never thought she'd have." Oh! This author crafted her story so beautifully! The two time periods / storylines are woven so well. The heartache for the little girl is leavened with some loving individuals.
Page 276 - I marked this page because after many references to the poetry of Amanda Hamilton, I thought, "I need to get a book of her poetry!" Read the book . . . just read the book!
Page 289 - Animals can be absolutely amazing! I loved the jail house cat, Sunday Justice. "Finally, he settled as though he had nested here every night of his life. He looked at her. Gently she touched his head, then scratched his neck. A loud purr erupted like a current. She closed her eyes at such easy acceptance. A deep pause in a lifetime of longing."
Page 355 - "Yesterday the cemetery moved with villagers, like constant ants, including all the fishermen and shopkeepers, who had come to bury Scupper." I went from happily relieved to incredibly sad for Tate. What a moving book!
Page 361 - By the end of the book, I was just sobbing. "Standing on the porch, Mabel rushed to Kya. They hugged, rocking back and forth, crying. 'Lawd, he loved ya like his own dawder,' Mabel said. 'I know,' Kya said, 'and he was my pa.'"
I read through this book so quickly. I'm on another waiting list for the audiobook, and I am sure I will hear and notice even more beauty on a second time through. What a fantastic book! The NYT book review says in part: "Painfully beautiful . . . At once a murder mystery, a coming-of-age narrative, and a celebration of nature." Amen!
Thursday, February 13, 2020
The Murder of King Tut
by James Patterson and Martin Dugard
Scott County Library audiobook 5 CDs
read by Joe Barrett
genre: historical fiction
Ugh. This book both bugged and fascinated me. Patterson writes it as though it is a highly researched representation of how King Tut actually died, but it reads much more like fiction with some basis in history. He divides the story into present day (him as author), the 1920s and Howard Carter's work, and Ancient Egypt when Tut lived and died.
I had forgotten that Patterson is notorious for many, many very short chapters. As a middle school media specialist, I appreciated that the short chapters helped some reluctant readers to stay more focused. Listening to this, I was appalled that a few paragraphs constituted an entire chapter, especially when the next chapter had the exact same setting, time period, and characters. Just irritating.
The vocal work by Barrett was decent, but accents were not consistent. Howard Carter sometimes sounded British, sometimes American, sometimes exactly the same as the narrator voice.
It was especially irritating when Ancient Egyptians were given modern day sensibilities. Tut was so in love with his half-sister wife that he didn't want to upset her by bedding a different woman. Really?! Does that seem at all realistic, given his culture and station in life? What an incredibly kind and sensitive Pharaoh he was.
I most enjoyed the Howard Carter thread of the story. In fact, I got a children's book on Tut's tomb and read it. That author had some different information from Patterson's book. (For example, according to this book, the autopsy was very poorly done, damaging Tut's mummy. The children's book said it was very carefully handled.)
The modern day part included how much Patterson enjoys golfing at Trump's course in Palm Beach, Florida. Yuk. Why do we need this perspective?
I was disappointed, but find Ancient Egypt to be fascinating. His ruminations on how (and who) killed Tut are interesting, but I don't know that I am confident of his research and conclusions.
Scott County Library audiobook 5 CDs
read by Joe Barrett
genre: historical fiction
Ugh. This book both bugged and fascinated me. Patterson writes it as though it is a highly researched representation of how King Tut actually died, but it reads much more like fiction with some basis in history. He divides the story into present day (him as author), the 1920s and Howard Carter's work, and Ancient Egypt when Tut lived and died.
I had forgotten that Patterson is notorious for many, many very short chapters. As a middle school media specialist, I appreciated that the short chapters helped some reluctant readers to stay more focused. Listening to this, I was appalled that a few paragraphs constituted an entire chapter, especially when the next chapter had the exact same setting, time period, and characters. Just irritating.
The vocal work by Barrett was decent, but accents were not consistent. Howard Carter sometimes sounded British, sometimes American, sometimes exactly the same as the narrator voice.
It was especially irritating when Ancient Egyptians were given modern day sensibilities. Tut was so in love with his half-sister wife that he didn't want to upset her by bedding a different woman. Really?! Does that seem at all realistic, given his culture and station in life? What an incredibly kind and sensitive Pharaoh he was.
I most enjoyed the Howard Carter thread of the story. In fact, I got a children's book on Tut's tomb and read it. That author had some different information from Patterson's book. (For example, according to this book, the autopsy was very poorly done, damaging Tut's mummy. The children's book said it was very carefully handled.)
The modern day part included how much Patterson enjoys golfing at Trump's course in Palm Beach, Florida. Yuk. Why do we need this perspective?
I was disappointed, but find Ancient Egypt to be fascinating. His ruminations on how (and who) killed Tut are interesting, but I don't know that I am confident of his research and conclusions.
Wednesday, February 12, 2020
The Other Queen
by Philippa Gregory
Delavon's loan, hardcover 433 pages
historical fiction
Generally, I enjoy historical fiction. My sister-in-law had loaned this to one of my daughters-in-law, who encouraged me to read it. I was struggling to force myself for several months to tackle it, but was definitely not enjoying it. Then I pushed through halfway, determined to get it done! At a family gathering, I chatted with my s-i-l who owned the book. She said she didn't finish the book! Ugh. I'm such a pain, I forced myself to finish it.
Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots make for a fascinating story . . . except in this case. Told from the POV of Mary, her jailer/protector George Talbot, and his wife Bess, the story drones on and on through the first three years of Mary's time in England after being ousted in Scotland by rebels. Then the last few chapters wrap up the next decade or so . . .
This was torturous to read. I don't remember what I thought of this author's The Other Boleyn Girl . . . or perhaps I only thought I read that one. In any case, I'm done and moving on.
Page 368 - George finally takes off the rose-colored glasses in regards to Mary and her actions. I kind of felt sorry for him, being the only honorable person in the book.
Page 394 - Seriously?! "'No,' I say as his weight comes down on me. It is what I always say to him. It is the word which means desire to me, to us. It is the word which means yes: 'No.'" What?!?!? How did the author include that? Did Mary's letters to her lover Bothwell actually include that concept? Or does the author think it's sexy when a man insults a woman and then ignores her "no" and forces himself upon her? Dude!
Page 405 - Chillingly reflected in our current political times . . . "But it is a different world now. We will use the laws against our enemies, we will find evidence against our enemies, and if there is neither law nor evidence, then we will make it fresh, specially for them." Sadler talking to Bess.
Delavon's loan, hardcover 433 pages
historical fiction
Generally, I enjoy historical fiction. My sister-in-law had loaned this to one of my daughters-in-law, who encouraged me to read it. I was struggling to force myself for several months to tackle it, but was definitely not enjoying it. Then I pushed through halfway, determined to get it done! At a family gathering, I chatted with my s-i-l who owned the book. She said she didn't finish the book! Ugh. I'm such a pain, I forced myself to finish it.
Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots make for a fascinating story . . . except in this case. Told from the POV of Mary, her jailer/protector George Talbot, and his wife Bess, the story drones on and on through the first three years of Mary's time in England after being ousted in Scotland by rebels. Then the last few chapters wrap up the next decade or so . . .
This was torturous to read. I don't remember what I thought of this author's The Other Boleyn Girl . . . or perhaps I only thought I read that one. In any case, I'm done and moving on.
Page 368 - George finally takes off the rose-colored glasses in regards to Mary and her actions. I kind of felt sorry for him, being the only honorable person in the book.
Page 394 - Seriously?! "'No,' I say as his weight comes down on me. It is what I always say to him. It is the word which means desire to me, to us. It is the word which means yes: 'No.'" What?!?!? How did the author include that? Did Mary's letters to her lover Bothwell actually include that concept? Or does the author think it's sexy when a man insults a woman and then ignores her "no" and forces himself upon her? Dude!
Page 405 - Chillingly reflected in our current political times . . . "But it is a different world now. We will use the laws against our enemies, we will find evidence against our enemies, and if there is neither law nor evidence, then we will make it fresh, specially for them." Sadler talking to Bess.
Monday, January 27, 2020
When I Close My Eyes
by Elizabeth Musser
Carver County Library paperback 338 pages
genre: Christian fiction
Not sure I feel like typing up all the pages I put post-its on . . . but I am excited for book club tonight and the chance to talk about this book. A hired assassin shoots Christian author Josephine Bourdillon in the head. But because someone called her name at the moment and she turned, the bullet wounds her gravely instead of killing her instantly. Lying in a coma, she has "flashbacks" of her childhood as her family rushes to her side to sit vigil and encourage her to pull through. The would-be killer is struggling with his own demons and comes to the hospital to finish what he started.
I read the first forty pages and then put it aside. Saturday evening, I finished the entire book! Musser is a wonderful storyteller who brings the threads of the story together as we hear from the different perspectives.
I've always kind of wondered about / struggled with the idea of a born-again Christian having problems with depression. This book helped make sense of it for me. This was a book about depression without being depressing to read. I loved Paige and her edginess. I also loved the observations about her acting a lot like Jesus even though she claimed not to believe in Him. . . .
Page 30-1: "Miss Josy, you listen to me, and you listen good. There's a whole lot of evil in this world. And you got a heart that feels it more than others. But don't you go tryin' to carry it - you give it to the good Lord, you hear me? Can't be carryin' it on your mighty thin shoulders. The Lord, now He's got big shoulders. You tell Him about it, and then you go on out and drink your ginger ale. Ain't up to you to fix the world's problems." Terrence was such a fantastic character! I loved his wisdom!
Page 69-70: "Josephine, I'm no expert on much, but I know one thing. When I start feeling overwhelmed or angry or discouraged, I try to read what God has to say about it in the Bible. And I keep a list of Bible verses that talk about whatever is bothering me. Sometimes I even memorize those verses." Fred O., her youth pastor, showed her how to use a concordance and find Scriptures that helped her with what she most struggled with! Yes! Excellent strategy!
Page 107: "Their weekly meetings were a gift, a great gift, and gradually Marcia helped her understand how to let go of the burdens, helped her redirect her spiraling thoughts, pointed her more fully to Christ, encouraged her to meditate on Scripture, to let God's Word tape over the cruel voices that played like a cassette in her mind. The voices didn't go away completely, but she learned to recognize them sooner, to prepare herself for the mental fight. And she learned that she could not fix her family." Marcia was another person who really helped Josie when she was younger.
Page 138 - her miscarriages . . . so incredibly sad. I can't imagine that pain.
Page 152 - Henry is being changed as he reads Josie's books and opens his heart to the possibility of forgiveness. Talking to Jase, he says, "These hard times are gonna be used for good. Make you stronger, son. Make you better inside and out. They're changin' your heart."
Page 193: "When she spoke to women's groups, Josephine never shied away from the truth - her need for antidepressants to regulate her moods, her need for counseling, her need for complete rest, her need for Scripture and people. She told it all in living color, always ending with, 'God's Word brought me back from the edge of despair . . . from insanity.'" God's Word has power!
Page 240: I love the whole page because Henry is musing on how "Christians" often act instead of how Jesus says they should act - in love. "I wondered how many religious folks nowadays acted like those Pharisees. And then I wondered long and hard how Jesus would feel about them."
Page 308: "Faith and mental instability aren't mutually exclusive." When Drake says this, Paige has to repeat it and think about it. Interesting how a perspective shift can do that.
Page 328-30: When her family reads her letter, it summarizes beautifully her whole journey. This part really struck me: 'Back in 2007, I tried to take my life. Despite having a wonderful, loving family and community and a deep faith in Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I had slipped into a terrible spiral of hopelessness. By God's grace, my attempt failed. My road back to mental and physical health came from my support group as well as mental health professionals and medication." She goes on to talk about getting help.
Carver County Library paperback 338 pages
genre: Christian fiction
Not sure I feel like typing up all the pages I put post-its on . . . but I am excited for book club tonight and the chance to talk about this book. A hired assassin shoots Christian author Josephine Bourdillon in the head. But because someone called her name at the moment and she turned, the bullet wounds her gravely instead of killing her instantly. Lying in a coma, she has "flashbacks" of her childhood as her family rushes to her side to sit vigil and encourage her to pull through. The would-be killer is struggling with his own demons and comes to the hospital to finish what he started.
I read the first forty pages and then put it aside. Saturday evening, I finished the entire book! Musser is a wonderful storyteller who brings the threads of the story together as we hear from the different perspectives.
I've always kind of wondered about / struggled with the idea of a born-again Christian having problems with depression. This book helped make sense of it for me. This was a book about depression without being depressing to read. I loved Paige and her edginess. I also loved the observations about her acting a lot like Jesus even though she claimed not to believe in Him. . . .
Page 30-1: "Miss Josy, you listen to me, and you listen good. There's a whole lot of evil in this world. And you got a heart that feels it more than others. But don't you go tryin' to carry it - you give it to the good Lord, you hear me? Can't be carryin' it on your mighty thin shoulders. The Lord, now He's got big shoulders. You tell Him about it, and then you go on out and drink your ginger ale. Ain't up to you to fix the world's problems." Terrence was such a fantastic character! I loved his wisdom!
Page 69-70: "Josephine, I'm no expert on much, but I know one thing. When I start feeling overwhelmed or angry or discouraged, I try to read what God has to say about it in the Bible. And I keep a list of Bible verses that talk about whatever is bothering me. Sometimes I even memorize those verses." Fred O., her youth pastor, showed her how to use a concordance and find Scriptures that helped her with what she most struggled with! Yes! Excellent strategy!
Page 107: "Their weekly meetings were a gift, a great gift, and gradually Marcia helped her understand how to let go of the burdens, helped her redirect her spiraling thoughts, pointed her more fully to Christ, encouraged her to meditate on Scripture, to let God's Word tape over the cruel voices that played like a cassette in her mind. The voices didn't go away completely, but she learned to recognize them sooner, to prepare herself for the mental fight. And she learned that she could not fix her family." Marcia was another person who really helped Josie when she was younger.
Page 138 - her miscarriages . . . so incredibly sad. I can't imagine that pain.
Page 152 - Henry is being changed as he reads Josie's books and opens his heart to the possibility of forgiveness. Talking to Jase, he says, "These hard times are gonna be used for good. Make you stronger, son. Make you better inside and out. They're changin' your heart."
Page 193: "When she spoke to women's groups, Josephine never shied away from the truth - her need for antidepressants to regulate her moods, her need for counseling, her need for complete rest, her need for Scripture and people. She told it all in living color, always ending with, 'God's Word brought me back from the edge of despair . . . from insanity.'" God's Word has power!
Page 240: I love the whole page because Henry is musing on how "Christians" often act instead of how Jesus says they should act - in love. "I wondered how many religious folks nowadays acted like those Pharisees. And then I wondered long and hard how Jesus would feel about them."
Page 308: "Faith and mental instability aren't mutually exclusive." When Drake says this, Paige has to repeat it and think about it. Interesting how a perspective shift can do that.
Page 328-30: When her family reads her letter, it summarizes beautifully her whole journey. This part really struck me: 'Back in 2007, I tried to take my life. Despite having a wonderful, loving family and community and a deep faith in Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I had slipped into a terrible spiral of hopelessness. By God's grace, my attempt failed. My road back to mental and physical health came from my support group as well as mental health professionals and medication." She goes on to talk about getting help.
We Never Asked for Wings
by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
Scott County Library audiobook 10 CDs
read by Emma Bering and Robbie Daymond
genre: realistic fiction
I grabbed this book when I saw who the author was. The Language of Flowers absolutely blew me away. I may need to re-read it . . . Because I confess that this book underwhelmed me. This "review" probably has lots of spoilers, so please don't let me ruin your experience with the book! (It isn't a very well-written review anyhow.)
She is an amazing writer, but there were a few things that I really struggled with. First of all, the consequences of the kids' actions was draconian. I find it hard to believe that any school would handle this by immediately turning two kids (with no previous issues) over to the police, and that the police in juvey would treat them so harshly. No lawyers, no parents . . . just doesn't ring true for me. Second of all is the lame ending. It's as though the story just stops. Not at all satisfying.
Here are my random notes from while I was listening:
I love what she did with the birds and feathers. I love the relationship between Enrique and his grandson. I love how Wes and Rick stepped up as great guys. I even loved the mixology lessons. But overall, this was just not as excellent as her first book.
Scott County Library audiobook 10 CDs
read by Emma Bering and Robbie Daymond
genre: realistic fiction
I grabbed this book when I saw who the author was. The Language of Flowers absolutely blew me away. I may need to re-read it . . . Because I confess that this book underwhelmed me. This "review" probably has lots of spoilers, so please don't let me ruin your experience with the book! (It isn't a very well-written review anyhow.)
She is an amazing writer, but there were a few things that I really struggled with. First of all, the consequences of the kids' actions was draconian. I find it hard to believe that any school would handle this by immediately turning two kids (with no previous issues) over to the police, and that the police in juvey would treat them so harshly. No lawyers, no parents . . . just doesn't ring true for me. Second of all is the lame ending. It's as though the story just stops. Not at all satisfying.
Here are my random notes from while I was listening:
- geography south of San Fran? I need to look at a map! marshy area by airport?
- feather mosaics . . . I tried googling this, but I got mosaics OF feathers instead of ones made FROM feathers. I'm super curious and must look more!
- I had a hard time deciding if I was more frustrated with Letty being a pathetic non-mom or Maria Elena for enabling her all these years. And Luna was such a brat! What horrible behavior for a six year old! Alex was my favorite character from the get-go.
- They learned about the Icarus myth in sixth grade? I love it!
- mass spectrometer, feathers/wings, climate change. I loved the nerdy science stuff and the way Alex and Wes clicked.
- Loved the men! Rick, Wed, Alex, Enrique, Mr. Everett (the science teacher) - these guys were fantastic!
- No! I couldn't believe that Alex compounded the wrong he'd already done by throwing Mr. E's keys into the bay. I also couldn't believe that Yesenia told him to do it.
- Carmen's 14 year old self and experience with pregnancy vs. Letty's 18 year old experience . . . such different choices, weaknesses, and strengths in these women!
- lots of remarks on "Juvie lockup" and "really?!" and "a guard hit Alex and left a scrape on his forehead?" and "I don't think so." Letty should have been fighting that system big-time!
I love what she did with the birds and feathers. I love the relationship between Enrique and his grandson. I love how Wes and Rick stepped up as great guys. I even loved the mixology lessons. But overall, this was just not as excellent as her first book.
Friday, January 10, 2020
Skink No Surrender
by Carl Hiaasen
Hennepin County Library audiobook 7 CDs
read by Kirby Heyborne
genre: YA realistic fiction
I like Hiaasen's books, but this one may have bugged me more than I enjoyed it . . . I feel as though I'm on a teeter-totter of opinion.
I liked:
Ultimately, I think Flush remains my favorite of his YA books. I was a bit shocked at the difference between Hiaasen's style for teens and for adults. Duh, right? He's a talented writer.
I just had to go back and fix three previous entries where I had labeled the author as "Hiassen" instead of "Hiaasen." Wow. Sometimes I'm efficient and sometimes I'm in too much of a hurry to pay attention.
Hennepin County Library audiobook 7 CDs
read by Kirby Heyborne
genre: YA realistic fiction
I like Hiaasen's books, but this one may have bugged me more than I enjoyed it . . . I feel as though I'm on a teeter-totter of opinion.
I liked:
- Skink - his personality, his backstory, his attitude. I loved him as a character!
- Nickel, Dime, and Penny for sibling character names
- environmental concerns and the plug for Rachel Carson's Silent Spring (which I've not read and is now on my reading list . . . I've been aware of it for four decades . . . )
- info on the ivory billed woodpecker, the "Lord God bird" . . . enough for me to look it up and learn even more!
- Malley. What an awful brat of a kid. 14 years old and just horrid. Not sure why Richard or her parents care about her so much . . . she didn't seem to have many redeeming qualities
- Richard and Malley together doing so many stupid things. Yes, we all do stupid things. We do proportionally more stupid things when we're teenagers. But still . . . argh!
- The bad guy TC - his choices and actions . . . believable? Some of it. Listening, I thought about all the "Florida Man" humor on the internet . . . he's like a bad joke.
- Skink honoring the real Talbot Chalk. Nice touch
Ultimately, I think Flush remains my favorite of his YA books. I was a bit shocked at the difference between Hiaasen's style for teens and for adults. Duh, right? He's a talented writer.
I just had to go back and fix three previous entries where I had labeled the author as "Hiassen" instead of "Hiaasen." Wow. Sometimes I'm efficient and sometimes I'm in too much of a hurry to pay attention.
The Case of the Wandering Scholar
by Kate Saunders
Scott County Library hardcover 360 pages
genre: historical fiction, murder mystery
"A Laetitia Rodd Mystery: A Private Detective of the Utmost Discretion"
This is the second book in what I hope becomes a long series! Set in England in the 1850s, Laetitia is a delightful protagonist. I love seeing how the stories unfold and the pieces of the puzzle connect. This one pulled in more theology than I expected, but also included some of the lovely humor from the first book. I especially like how Laetitia and her more worldly brother interact with one another.
Page 252 - "Mr. Arden makes no distinction between the 'deserving' and the 'undeserving' poor. He says only the Almighty has the right to make such judgements and that the rich have a sacred duty to share their good fortune, because the less fortunate are our brothers and sisters and not another race of beings!"
This rush of an emotional speech was from a young woman in love with Mr. Arden, but I noted it because it can be such a bone of contention . . . helping people but trying to determine if they're worthy of help or if they're just experiencing hardship because of their own mistakes.
In any case, I don't want to leave any spoilers. The body count rose as the story went on, but not to the degree of a good Agatha Christie!
Scott County Library hardcover 360 pages
genre: historical fiction, murder mystery
"A Laetitia Rodd Mystery: A Private Detective of the Utmost Discretion"
This is the second book in what I hope becomes a long series! Set in England in the 1850s, Laetitia is a delightful protagonist. I love seeing how the stories unfold and the pieces of the puzzle connect. This one pulled in more theology than I expected, but also included some of the lovely humor from the first book. I especially like how Laetitia and her more worldly brother interact with one another.
Page 252 - "Mr. Arden makes no distinction between the 'deserving' and the 'undeserving' poor. He says only the Almighty has the right to make such judgements and that the rich have a sacred duty to share their good fortune, because the less fortunate are our brothers and sisters and not another race of beings!"
This rush of an emotional speech was from a young woman in love with Mr. Arden, but I noted it because it can be such a bone of contention . . . helping people but trying to determine if they're worthy of help or if they're just experiencing hardship because of their own mistakes.
In any case, I don't want to leave any spoilers. The body count rose as the story went on, but not to the degree of a good Agatha Christie!
Friday, January 03, 2020
More: How to Move from Activity for God to Intimacy with God
by Greg Hawkins
(foreword by Max Lucado)
Hennepin County Library hardcover 203 pages
genre: non-fiction Christian faith
I loved this book! Chris Moe recommended it to me a few years ago and I just got it from the library recently. This is one I would seriously consider buying. His "kingdom" analogy wasn't a 100% fit for me, but I understood what he meant by it.
Page 38 - The church he worked at did a massive study on Christians and their relationship with Jesus. This breakdown fascinates me . . . and leads me to want More.
Page 76 - This was just timely, though it has little to do with what I liked about the book! I read it shortly after my total knee replacement surgery on 12/10.
"I didn't feel much pain because they had given me a spinal block during surgery that stopped all nerve traffic from my waist down. When it wore off later that day, it was like getting hit by a truck. A very large truck that was not braking at all upon impact."
Page 86 - "We have been so conditioned to think God is 'out there' and we have to work really hard to find Him that we've missed the whole point of why He created us in the first place: He wants to have a deep, personal, intimate relationship with you. Nothing in all of creation can separate you from God." I love this reminder that God is close, not far away. We are the ones who need to pay attention to Him; He doesn't lose track of us.
Page 97 - ". . . I don't just need You when I'm having a difficult time. I don't need You only when I have that job interview or when I'm waiting for the results of my medical test. I don't just need You right now. I want You. I want to be with You always." I love this prayer! It's one I could pray daily.
Page 99 - "So when you notice yourself saying or thinking 'I' or 'me,' make a conscious shift and say or think 'we.' The change may feel awkward at first, but it's a habit that will bring you into a strong awareness of God's presence. By changing your words, you can change your thinking, which will change your attitudes, then your feelings, and finally your experiences." This is so true! It makes me think about The Power of Words book that Lois gave me . . . and makes me think of Norman Vincent Peale's Power of Positive Thinking. God's Word has power. We need to claim His promises.
Page 104 - "Another lie the Enemy uses is that if you become fully intimate with God He will make you do things you hate. This is the lie most of us fall for. God's going to send you to Africa or make you wash the feet of homeless men in an urban shelter. He's going to make you a fanatical street preacher warning that the world is coming to an end. That doesn't make any sense at all, but we imagine that will be our assignment and so we hide out in the Kingdom of Me. What I've learned is that God wants you to serve Him with the unique skills and talents He's given you. If you're a lousy public speaker, He won't call you to be a preacher. Or if He does, He'll not only transform you into a polished speaker but also give you a love for preaching. That's just the way God works." Yes! I love how God can do the impossible! I love how His ways are better than our ways. Submitting my will to His is something I'm working on right now . . .
Page 117 - "Now, reason and intellect are wonderful gifts, but focusing on them exclusively can keep us in our heads and prevent us from engaging our hearts. And yet, this is the shift we must make - from our heads to our hearts - if we want to access a life of more. We don't abandon our intellect, but we augment it with a depth of feeling and experience that happen when we engage our hearts."
Page 126 - "When we studied half a million church attendees to find out what kinds of practices they engaged in, the research was very clear: the number one practice that catalyzes movement toward deeper intimacy with God is reading, studying, reflecting upon, and even memorizing truth from the Bible." Yes! God's Word is better than food!
If I owned a copy of this book, there would be much highlighting and underlining . . . I'm still trying to decide if I buy a copy or not. I definitely need to send Kris a thank you note for the recommendation!
(foreword by Max Lucado)
Hennepin County Library hardcover 203 pages
genre: non-fiction Christian faith
I loved this book! Chris Moe recommended it to me a few years ago and I just got it from the library recently. This is one I would seriously consider buying. His "kingdom" analogy wasn't a 100% fit for me, but I understood what he meant by it.
Page 38 - The church he worked at did a massive study on Christians and their relationship with Jesus. This breakdown fascinates me . . . and leads me to want More.
Page 76 - This was just timely, though it has little to do with what I liked about the book! I read it shortly after my total knee replacement surgery on 12/10.
"I didn't feel much pain because they had given me a spinal block during surgery that stopped all nerve traffic from my waist down. When it wore off later that day, it was like getting hit by a truck. A very large truck that was not braking at all upon impact."
Page 86 - "We have been so conditioned to think God is 'out there' and we have to work really hard to find Him that we've missed the whole point of why He created us in the first place: He wants to have a deep, personal, intimate relationship with you. Nothing in all of creation can separate you from God." I love this reminder that God is close, not far away. We are the ones who need to pay attention to Him; He doesn't lose track of us.
Page 97 - ". . . I don't just need You when I'm having a difficult time. I don't need You only when I have that job interview or when I'm waiting for the results of my medical test. I don't just need You right now. I want You. I want to be with You always." I love this prayer! It's one I could pray daily.
Page 99 - "So when you notice yourself saying or thinking 'I' or 'me,' make a conscious shift and say or think 'we.' The change may feel awkward at first, but it's a habit that will bring you into a strong awareness of God's presence. By changing your words, you can change your thinking, which will change your attitudes, then your feelings, and finally your experiences." This is so true! It makes me think about The Power of Words book that Lois gave me . . . and makes me think of Norman Vincent Peale's Power of Positive Thinking. God's Word has power. We need to claim His promises.
Page 104 - "Another lie the Enemy uses is that if you become fully intimate with God He will make you do things you hate. This is the lie most of us fall for. God's going to send you to Africa or make you wash the feet of homeless men in an urban shelter. He's going to make you a fanatical street preacher warning that the world is coming to an end. That doesn't make any sense at all, but we imagine that will be our assignment and so we hide out in the Kingdom of Me. What I've learned is that God wants you to serve Him with the unique skills and talents He's given you. If you're a lousy public speaker, He won't call you to be a preacher. Or if He does, He'll not only transform you into a polished speaker but also give you a love for preaching. That's just the way God works." Yes! I love how God can do the impossible! I love how His ways are better than our ways. Submitting my will to His is something I'm working on right now . . .
Page 117 - "Now, reason and intellect are wonderful gifts, but focusing on them exclusively can keep us in our heads and prevent us from engaging our hearts. And yet, this is the shift we must make - from our heads to our hearts - if we want to access a life of more. We don't abandon our intellect, but we augment it with a depth of feeling and experience that happen when we engage our hearts."
Page 126 - "When we studied half a million church attendees to find out what kinds of practices they engaged in, the research was very clear: the number one practice that catalyzes movement toward deeper intimacy with God is reading, studying, reflecting upon, and even memorizing truth from the Bible." Yes! God's Word is better than food!
If I owned a copy of this book, there would be much highlighting and underlining . . . I'm still trying to decide if I buy a copy or not. I definitely need to send Kris a thank you note for the recommendation!
Friday, December 27, 2019
Yes We Did
by Lawrence Jackson
foreword by Barack Obama
Hennepin County Library hardcover 173 pages
genre: photojournalism
I loved this book, but it also made me sad. Jackson worked for the White House along with Pete Sousa, documenting the Obama administration. The photos are interspersed with commentary and input from others.
My absolute favorite parts included the letter from Bono (December 2015):
"The photo is taken at the center of power. But what this picture says to me about power has nothing to do with its usual instruments: economic, military, cultural might. What this photograph shows - and what President Obama showed us during his years in office - is just how much power there is in restraint, in goodness, in grace, in love. Maybe we understand this more in its absence. Because there's another model of leadership that is finding its way to center stage on both sides of the Atlantic, one that's grabbed the megaphone and is shouting that goodness and grace are signs of weakness, not strength. We are seeing a power that defines itself by demonizing 'the other.'"
On page 77, Jackson writes, "When addressing the staff, President Obama often talked about what 'we are doing.' He was always inclusive, ready to share the successes of his administration but accepting full responsibility for the failures. He inspired a passionate and loyal team committed to helping our country find its best self."
Valerie Jarrett contributed, "What I find striking is that notwithstanding all of his years in the rough-and-tumble world of politics, he still has an optimistic outlook and searches for the good in people." (page 78)
Page 140 - "It's the biggest lesson I've learned from watching them up close: be authentic. Take away the prestige, titles, positions, and money ,and you have your words and actions to define you - an unvarnished truth of who we are as told by what we do and say. Humans relating to other humans without pretense and reminding us that we have more in common than the differences on the surface might suggest." (Jackson)
I miss President Obama and First Lady Michelle. I miss their positive, encouraging selves representing the United States of America. This book was lovely.
foreword by Barack Obama
Hennepin County Library hardcover 173 pages
genre: photojournalism
I loved this book, but it also made me sad. Jackson worked for the White House along with Pete Sousa, documenting the Obama administration. The photos are interspersed with commentary and input from others.
My absolute favorite parts included the letter from Bono (December 2015):
"The photo is taken at the center of power. But what this picture says to me about power has nothing to do with its usual instruments: economic, military, cultural might. What this photograph shows - and what President Obama showed us during his years in office - is just how much power there is in restraint, in goodness, in grace, in love. Maybe we understand this more in its absence. Because there's another model of leadership that is finding its way to center stage on both sides of the Atlantic, one that's grabbed the megaphone and is shouting that goodness and grace are signs of weakness, not strength. We are seeing a power that defines itself by demonizing 'the other.'"
On page 77, Jackson writes, "When addressing the staff, President Obama often talked about what 'we are doing.' He was always inclusive, ready to share the successes of his administration but accepting full responsibility for the failures. He inspired a passionate and loyal team committed to helping our country find its best self."
Valerie Jarrett contributed, "What I find striking is that notwithstanding all of his years in the rough-and-tumble world of politics, he still has an optimistic outlook and searches for the good in people." (page 78)
Page 140 - "It's the biggest lesson I've learned from watching them up close: be authentic. Take away the prestige, titles, positions, and money ,and you have your words and actions to define you - an unvarnished truth of who we are as told by what we do and say. Humans relating to other humans without pretense and reminding us that we have more in common than the differences on the surface might suggest." (Jackson)
I miss President Obama and First Lady Michelle. I miss their positive, encouraging selves representing the United States of America. This book was lovely.
Monday, December 16, 2019
Riot
by Walter Dean Myers
Hennepin County Library audiobook 3 CDs
read by full cast
genre: YA Historical Fiction
Like other books by WDM, this one was challenging in some regards and very accessible in others. I loved the opening montage with different music for different eras (modern, 1954, 1900, 1863), but I'm not exactly sure why the author chose to bring us back in time by starting in the modern day. The book is essentially a Civil War story, but by starting in today's era, perhaps he's trying to "hook" young readers and bring them gently back. It made me wonder what the print version does! The music works very effectively for the audio version. (I made another note later about the music enhancing the story.)
The story is written like a screenplay, which immediately made me think of Monster. It was a bit disjointing, though, to have all the "fade out," "long shot," etc. language. Another difference between experiencing the book in an audio vs. print format.
As with most historical fiction, I wonder about the accuracy. Some of the language surprised me. Did they really refer to single men as "batching" it back then?
The role of the Irish in NYC . . . super interesting. Police, soldiers, poor people, rioters, . . . people shouldn't be pigeonholed, but trends and majorities get noticed.
Myers is an amazing author. I would love to hear how students, especially black students, respond to his work. For a white person in a primarily white community, I'm glad that he broadens my horizons as a reader.
Claire's identity crisis felt a bit overwrought . . . but perhaps that was more the vocal work than the writing. With a black dad and a white Irish mom, I'm sure she would have had identity concerns with her pale skin.
At the end, Walter Dean Myers read the author notes. I was surprised by his voice; I guess I'd never heard it before. It wasn't what I expected at all. I couldn't listen to all of the author interview because the interviewer was awful! He talked AT the author instead of asking good questions and listening. Argh!
I had never heard of the Draft Riots of 1863 before! In all the years I did History Day research with students, this never crossed my awareness. I suppose with all the other Civil War events of 1863, these riots were not the biggest news. Still, I love when reading fiction helps me to learn something new.
I added two more books to my reading list because of this title - one is about Amistad.
I've not gone on to do any research on this topic (lots of other stuff going on right now), but I'd love to learn more about this event and Five Points in NYC.
Hennepin County Library audiobook 3 CDs
read by full cast
genre: YA Historical Fiction
Like other books by WDM, this one was challenging in some regards and very accessible in others. I loved the opening montage with different music for different eras (modern, 1954, 1900, 1863), but I'm not exactly sure why the author chose to bring us back in time by starting in the modern day. The book is essentially a Civil War story, but by starting in today's era, perhaps he's trying to "hook" young readers and bring them gently back. It made me wonder what the print version does! The music works very effectively for the audio version. (I made another note later about the music enhancing the story.)
The story is written like a screenplay, which immediately made me think of Monster. It was a bit disjointing, though, to have all the "fade out," "long shot," etc. language. Another difference between experiencing the book in an audio vs. print format.
As with most historical fiction, I wonder about the accuracy. Some of the language surprised me. Did they really refer to single men as "batching" it back then?
The role of the Irish in NYC . . . super interesting. Police, soldiers, poor people, rioters, . . . people shouldn't be pigeonholed, but trends and majorities get noticed.
Myers is an amazing author. I would love to hear how students, especially black students, respond to his work. For a white person in a primarily white community, I'm glad that he broadens my horizons as a reader.
Claire's identity crisis felt a bit overwrought . . . but perhaps that was more the vocal work than the writing. With a black dad and a white Irish mom, I'm sure she would have had identity concerns with her pale skin.
At the end, Walter Dean Myers read the author notes. I was surprised by his voice; I guess I'd never heard it before. It wasn't what I expected at all. I couldn't listen to all of the author interview because the interviewer was awful! He talked AT the author instead of asking good questions and listening. Argh!
I had never heard of the Draft Riots of 1863 before! In all the years I did History Day research with students, this never crossed my awareness. I suppose with all the other Civil War events of 1863, these riots were not the biggest news. Still, I love when reading fiction helps me to learn something new.
I added two more books to my reading list because of this title - one is about Amistad.
I've not gone on to do any research on this topic (lots of other stuff going on right now), but I'd love to learn more about this event and Five Points in NYC.
Tuesday, December 03, 2019
A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power
by Jimmy Carter
read by the author
Scott County Library audiobook 6 CDs
genre: non-fiction
There are things I really liked about this book for the first two CDs . . . and others I'd love to discuss with other readers. I had to stop listening, however, because as much as I typically like audiobooks read by the author, this one was too difficult to understand. I'm not sure how much of that is due to his age and how much is because of the Southern drawl, but his lack of enunciation meant that I often was not really certain of what he was saying. If I'm not sure if that was a "did" or a "didn't," the meaning is different! I've decided to pass on this book for now.
I do like and admire that Carter unabashedly proclaims Jesus as his Lord and savior. I love that he and his wife Rosalyn have spent their post White House years in service (Habitat for Humanity). I liked the parts where he shared his personal experiences and stories growing up in the South and in the governor's mansion. I just struggled to listen to his voice that much.
I found a scrap of paper with some notes.
- Jimmy Carter's voice - accent and lack of enunciation plus age - hard to understand - had to really focus on it
- like his personal stories better than legislation or U.N. policy info
- basic HUMAN rights, peace
- post WWII "growing acceptance of violence and warfare" . . . I don't remember what he was referring to . . .
read by the author
Scott County Library audiobook 6 CDs
genre: non-fiction
There are things I really liked about this book for the first two CDs . . . and others I'd love to discuss with other readers. I had to stop listening, however, because as much as I typically like audiobooks read by the author, this one was too difficult to understand. I'm not sure how much of that is due to his age and how much is because of the Southern drawl, but his lack of enunciation meant that I often was not really certain of what he was saying. If I'm not sure if that was a "did" or a "didn't," the meaning is different! I've decided to pass on this book for now.
I do like and admire that Carter unabashedly proclaims Jesus as his Lord and savior. I love that he and his wife Rosalyn have spent their post White House years in service (Habitat for Humanity). I liked the parts where he shared his personal experiences and stories growing up in the South and in the governor's mansion. I just struggled to listen to his voice that much.
I found a scrap of paper with some notes.
- Jimmy Carter's voice - accent and lack of enunciation plus age - hard to understand - had to really focus on it
- like his personal stories better than legislation or U.N. policy info
- basic HUMAN rights, peace
- post WWII "growing acceptance of violence and warfare" . . . I don't remember what he was referring to . . .
Out Stealing Horses
by Per Petterson
translated by Anne Born
read by Richard Poe
Scott County Library audiobook 6 CDs
genre: realistic / historical fiction
I am starting to really love literature by authors from Norway and Sweden! There's a different way of looking at life and a depth to their work . . . I am tempted to get a print copy of this to re-read and really spend time thinking about . . . though Poe's vocal work was excellent.
The story moves back and forth between 67 year old Trond, recently widowed, and his 15 year old self in 1948. There was so much going on in this story that I don't even know what to write!
- "Boy with the golden trousers" - I love that his sister, then his wife, referred to his lucky self this way. It made me smile.
- it was so sad that his sister died from cancer and his wife in a car accident the same month . . . three years before his self-imposed isolation as a 67 year old.
- I loved the visit from his daughter and all the complicated emotions in that scene
- what really happened with Yume? (I have no idea how his name is spelled . . . but that's what it sounded like in the story.) I had hoped that he and Lars would have more conversations about the past and their families.
- I have so many other questions about the story and the characters! I may need to get a print copy and read it again to see if I've missed a lot or if the author leaves interpretations open.
- I loved the references to Dickens and especially Sidney Carton at the end of A Tale of Two Cities!
- I loved the different meanings for the boys and the adults as far as the title . . .
Such an amazing book!
translated by Anne Born
read by Richard Poe
Scott County Library audiobook 6 CDs
genre: realistic / historical fiction
I am starting to really love literature by authors from Norway and Sweden! There's a different way of looking at life and a depth to their work . . . I am tempted to get a print copy of this to re-read and really spend time thinking about . . . though Poe's vocal work was excellent.
The story moves back and forth between 67 year old Trond, recently widowed, and his 15 year old self in 1948. There was so much going on in this story that I don't even know what to write!
- "Boy with the golden trousers" - I love that his sister, then his wife, referred to his lucky self this way. It made me smile.
- it was so sad that his sister died from cancer and his wife in a car accident the same month . . . three years before his self-imposed isolation as a 67 year old.
- I loved the visit from his daughter and all the complicated emotions in that scene
- what really happened with Yume? (I have no idea how his name is spelled . . . but that's what it sounded like in the story.) I had hoped that he and Lars would have more conversations about the past and their families.
- I have so many other questions about the story and the characters! I may need to get a print copy and read it again to see if I've missed a lot or if the author leaves interpretations open.
- I loved the references to Dickens and especially Sidney Carton at the end of A Tale of Two Cities!
- I loved the different meanings for the boys and the adults as far as the title . . .
Such an amazing book!
Geography Club
by Brent Hartinger
Hennepin County Library paperback 226 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, LGBTQ
Russel hasn't told anyone he's gay - not his parents, not his best friends Min and Gunnar, and keeping this secret has been challenging. Then he "meets" someone in an online chat room and decides to meet IRL (in real life). The joys and fears of this teen are lived out on an hourly, daily, weekly basis.
What I liked: a group of "outcasts" creating a club so "boring" no one will want to join (The Geography Club), Min as a character - my favorite!
What I disliked: the general immaturity of Russel and the simplicity of the story line. I just don't see teens making the decisions they did . . . but I think for kiddos struggling with the issues of being gay in a primarily straight world, it might resonate. Having seen active gay-straight alliances in middle schools and high schools for a while now, the community in this book seems a bit different than what I've observed.
Hennepin County Library paperback 226 pages
genre: YA realistic fiction, LGBTQ
Russel hasn't told anyone he's gay - not his parents, not his best friends Min and Gunnar, and keeping this secret has been challenging. Then he "meets" someone in an online chat room and decides to meet IRL (in real life). The joys and fears of this teen are lived out on an hourly, daily, weekly basis.
What I liked: a group of "outcasts" creating a club so "boring" no one will want to join (The Geography Club), Min as a character - my favorite!
What I disliked: the general immaturity of Russel and the simplicity of the story line. I just don't see teens making the decisions they did . . . but I think for kiddos struggling with the issues of being gay in a primarily straight world, it might resonate. Having seen active gay-straight alliances in middle schools and high schools for a while now, the community in this book seems a bit different than what I've observed.
The Coincidence of Coconut Cake
by Amy E. Reichert
Scott County Library paperback 310 pages
genre: romance, cooking
Oddly, I enjoyed the first half of this book more than the second half! I got it after reading a review in the Costco Connection. I'll scan and post the review at the bottom of this page. (My reviews are to help trigger my own memories; sorry if you're looking for high quality reviews from me!)
I liked chef Lou and her friends Sue and Harley. I liked Al's transformation and how he falls in love with Milwaukee (and Lou). I didn't like Devlin and Lou as a couple . . . why was he so determined? And why did she stay with someone so awful for so long?
My favorite parts of the story were centered on the elderly couple Otto and Gertrude. I cried toward the end! I had envisioned a different twist to their involvement in Lou's life. This was an enjoyable book, but nothing spectacular. It was way better than most romance books! In a way, it's more a love letter to Milwaukee than anything else . . . which I think is sweet.
I have no desire to make the coconut cake (recipe included in the book), but I'd love to try a slice of it!!!
Scott County Library paperback 310 pages
genre: romance, cooking
Oddly, I enjoyed the first half of this book more than the second half! I got it after reading a review in the Costco Connection. I'll scan and post the review at the bottom of this page. (My reviews are to help trigger my own memories; sorry if you're looking for high quality reviews from me!)
I liked chef Lou and her friends Sue and Harley. I liked Al's transformation and how he falls in love with Milwaukee (and Lou). I didn't like Devlin and Lou as a couple . . . why was he so determined? And why did she stay with someone so awful for so long?
My favorite parts of the story were centered on the elderly couple Otto and Gertrude. I cried toward the end! I had envisioned a different twist to their involvement in Lou's life. This was an enjoyable book, but nothing spectacular. It was way better than most romance books! In a way, it's more a love letter to Milwaukee than anything else . . . which I think is sweet.
I have no desire to make the coconut cake (recipe included in the book), but I'd love to try a slice of it!!!
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