If you love Fixer Upper on HGTV, you MUST read this heart-warming rags to riches tale of my favorite (not just mine, half the world loves these two!) house flippers from Waco, Texas. Their story is easy to read--you can almost hear them telling the story--and a quick read at that. But more importantly, their story is inspirational. It reminds us that good things happen to people who work hard, who have faith, and who love each other no matter what.
One day I will get to Waco and when I do I am going to The Silos. One day. In the meantime I will watch Fixer Upper and dream about Joanna and Chip making over my house. My dream...sigh...
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Friday, October 28, 2016
Monday, October 24, 2016
#41: Two By Two by Nicholas Sparks
Any Nicholas Sparks fan will have already bought and read this book and no matter what I say about the novel, they will read it anyway. Anyone who doesn't like Sparks won't read it and, therefore, my words matter little to that sort of person, too. As a result, I almost didn't post anything other than the title of the book so I could keep track of the total number of books I read this year. But something stopped me, so I am writing about this book regardless of the fact that few people will probably really care.
I have read every book Sparks has ever written. Sometimes I have read them twice--once when first published and then again before a movie premier to remind myself of the plot. They are always sad in some ways and hopeful in others and someone always dies, maybe not a main character, but someone. Two By Two, however slight, shifted, in my opinion, from standard Nicholas Sparks, and it makes me wonder if we aren't going to start to see new things from him.
Two By Two is the story of Russell Green and his family: wife Vivian and daughter London. We get Russ's own thoughts and comments in italics while the main story, with lots of character involvement, is told in bold print. While we get background information about the family and extended family, the novel focuses mainly on the year when Russ's life spiraled out of control--he quit his snob, started his own company, made no money, wife had to go back to work, wife decides to leave him, wife threatens to take away his daughter. Knowing that Sparks himself is recently divorced, I had to wonder how much of Russ is actually Sparks himself, or some version of himself. I don't know details about his divorce, nor do I want to, but there were times when Russ's emotions were so raw and intense, it just made me think that only someone who had experienced divorce and the possibility of losing a child could write so passionately about it. (Although it can be argued that Sparks has written about so many things passionately that he perhaps knew nothing about except through research. How many times have I heard a friend say, "I can't believe a man wrote this.") I spent much of the book wondering about this and wondering when the sudden death that seems so often to occur in Spark's novels was going to jump up and surprise me.
Yet what I got instead for much of the book was a detailed story about a man and his family. I looked forward to reading, much in the same way I loved reading The Longest Ride, and while my heart broke for Russ, I didn't cry. I didn't even come close, whereas when I read The Longest Ride, I was crying about 50 pages in and never stopped. I loved reading about the evolution of Russ as a dad, as a friend to others, and as a son/brother. I was anxious about Vivian, a character that flip flopped so often you never really know what she was going to say or do, but after a while I realized that Russ was going to be able to handle her, no matter what. I thought Russ was going to be OK.
And then...Sparks threw in his curve ball--death--so I took a deep breath and turned the page and kept reading and you know what? It turned out OK. The death he created (perhaps in the spirit of "Everything happens for a reason") only helped to enrich the other characters. No one fell apart. No one changed the course of their lives. No one packed up and moved away because they couldn't cope (although people do move away but for other reasons). I did cry because it was sad, but everything turned out OK in the end. Would I have preferred if this character had not died? Yes, of course, but I don't think other characters would've come to the realizations they came to without this devastating event. People changed because a woman died. Her death enabled them to realize things about themselves that they wouldn't have otherwise. They moved forward and the ending left me with hope. I can't always say that about other Sparks books. Mostly I just feel like crying for days because the story is so sad.
But not this one. Perhaps that's why I wonder if Sparks' writing isn't changing a bit. Has his divorce changed his outlook on life? Has his perspective changed? Will we see more hopeful stories from him in the future? I am a Sparks fan. So you can bet that I will keep on reading his books regardless, but a little more hope and a little less death would be nice. After all, I read to escape reality. Not wallow in it.
Happy reading!
:) Dodie
I have read every book Sparks has ever written. Sometimes I have read them twice--once when first published and then again before a movie premier to remind myself of the plot. They are always sad in some ways and hopeful in others and someone always dies, maybe not a main character, but someone. Two By Two, however slight, shifted, in my opinion, from standard Nicholas Sparks, and it makes me wonder if we aren't going to start to see new things from him.
Two By Two is the story of Russell Green and his family: wife Vivian and daughter London. We get Russ's own thoughts and comments in italics while the main story, with lots of character involvement, is told in bold print. While we get background information about the family and extended family, the novel focuses mainly on the year when Russ's life spiraled out of control--he quit his snob, started his own company, made no money, wife had to go back to work, wife decides to leave him, wife threatens to take away his daughter. Knowing that Sparks himself is recently divorced, I had to wonder how much of Russ is actually Sparks himself, or some version of himself. I don't know details about his divorce, nor do I want to, but there were times when Russ's emotions were so raw and intense, it just made me think that only someone who had experienced divorce and the possibility of losing a child could write so passionately about it. (Although it can be argued that Sparks has written about so many things passionately that he perhaps knew nothing about except through research. How many times have I heard a friend say, "I can't believe a man wrote this.") I spent much of the book wondering about this and wondering when the sudden death that seems so often to occur in Spark's novels was going to jump up and surprise me.
Yet what I got instead for much of the book was a detailed story about a man and his family. I looked forward to reading, much in the same way I loved reading The Longest Ride, and while my heart broke for Russ, I didn't cry. I didn't even come close, whereas when I read The Longest Ride, I was crying about 50 pages in and never stopped. I loved reading about the evolution of Russ as a dad, as a friend to others, and as a son/brother. I was anxious about Vivian, a character that flip flopped so often you never really know what she was going to say or do, but after a while I realized that Russ was going to be able to handle her, no matter what. I thought Russ was going to be OK.
And then...Sparks threw in his curve ball--death--so I took a deep breath and turned the page and kept reading and you know what? It turned out OK. The death he created (perhaps in the spirit of "Everything happens for a reason") only helped to enrich the other characters. No one fell apart. No one changed the course of their lives. No one packed up and moved away because they couldn't cope (although people do move away but for other reasons). I did cry because it was sad, but everything turned out OK in the end. Would I have preferred if this character had not died? Yes, of course, but I don't think other characters would've come to the realizations they came to without this devastating event. People changed because a woman died. Her death enabled them to realize things about themselves that they wouldn't have otherwise. They moved forward and the ending left me with hope. I can't always say that about other Sparks books. Mostly I just feel like crying for days because the story is so sad.
But not this one. Perhaps that's why I wonder if Sparks' writing isn't changing a bit. Has his divorce changed his outlook on life? Has his perspective changed? Will we see more hopeful stories from him in the future? I am a Sparks fan. So you can bet that I will keep on reading his books regardless, but a little more hope and a little less death would be nice. After all, I read to escape reality. Not wallow in it.
Happy reading!
:) Dodie
Thursday, October 20, 2016
#40: The House Girl by Tara Conklin
The House Girl is the story of Josephine, a 17 year old house slave from Virginia, and Lina Sparrow, a young lawyer living in New York. Told in alternating chapters, we learn the stories of both of these women--stories that eventually converge in a rather interesting way.
If you like history, art, and law, this book is right up your alley. I appreciated the overall story more when I had finished the book than while I was reading because I often felt bogged down by the immense amount of detail. Conversation between characters was sparse in this novel and lots of time passed in between page turns as I waded through the details and repeatedly talked myself out of just putting the book down and walking away. I am glad that I stuck with it and finished it because it did end well. It just took a long time to get there!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
If you like history, art, and law, this book is right up your alley. I appreciated the overall story more when I had finished the book than while I was reading because I often felt bogged down by the immense amount of detail. Conversation between characters was sparse in this novel and lots of time passed in between page turns as I waded through the details and repeatedly talked myself out of just putting the book down and walking away. I am glad that I stuck with it and finished it because it did end well. It just took a long time to get there!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
#39: Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding
I did not feel as though I could consider myself well-read unless I had read this book, which people rave about. I read it, but I did not enjoy it. I chuckled a few times, but Bridget's life of drinking, dieting, and searching for a man, day after day and page after page, is not the sort of life I'd like to read about. Maybe I am missing something, but it just wasn't for me. Honestly, I couldn't wait for it to be over.
Consider yourself warned.
-Dodie
Consider yourself warned.
-Dodie
#38: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
We Were Liars is a book recommended to me by a middle school english teacher. It is a Young Adult novel, but I would suggest no one younger than a high school freshman read this one as there are references made that some would prefer middle schoolers not know about.
With that being said, as an adult, I was almost bored with the book (and the story of Cadence and her wealthy family as they vacation on their private island off of Martha's Vineyard each summer) until I realized that something eerie was going on, that something was not quite right, and I needed to keep reading to find out what it was. Oh yeah, it was something eerie all right. And while I won't ruin the story for you here, it's a good one. A real page turner by the end.
And, in the end, We Were Liars made me afraid of the power of our children in the same way that The Casual Vacancy, by JK Rowling, made me afraid of your children because the children got mad at the grown-ups and exacted a revenge no one saw coming. I have since stepped lightly around my teenagers, not that I am letting them rule the house, but I now realize how much power these days children really do have to make adult lives miserable should you cross them.
Of course, as with all good tales, when a bad deed happens, people must pay in some way and I do feel The Liars, as Cadence calls herself and her friends/family Gat, Mirren, and Johnny, paid a steep price for their actions. They may have been trying to solve a family problem, but in the end they created more problems than they solved. Is it a warning for teenagers to be careful what they do? To be careful that while you think you can solve the problems of the world, you can't always? That while you think you are adults you really aren't? Yes. I think that's exactly what this book warns.
It's also a fierce reminder that what we see isn't always the truth. And that many of us are Liars.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
With that being said, as an adult, I was almost bored with the book (and the story of Cadence and her wealthy family as they vacation on their private island off of Martha's Vineyard each summer) until I realized that something eerie was going on, that something was not quite right, and I needed to keep reading to find out what it was. Oh yeah, it was something eerie all right. And while I won't ruin the story for you here, it's a good one. A real page turner by the end.
And, in the end, We Were Liars made me afraid of the power of our children in the same way that The Casual Vacancy, by JK Rowling, made me afraid of your children because the children got mad at the grown-ups and exacted a revenge no one saw coming. I have since stepped lightly around my teenagers, not that I am letting them rule the house, but I now realize how much power these days children really do have to make adult lives miserable should you cross them.
Of course, as with all good tales, when a bad deed happens, people must pay in some way and I do feel The Liars, as Cadence calls herself and her friends/family Gat, Mirren, and Johnny, paid a steep price for their actions. They may have been trying to solve a family problem, but in the end they created more problems than they solved. Is it a warning for teenagers to be careful what they do? To be careful that while you think you can solve the problems of the world, you can't always? That while you think you are adults you really aren't? Yes. I think that's exactly what this book warns.
It's also a fierce reminder that what we see isn't always the truth. And that many of us are Liars.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
#37: The Kid Who Ran for President by Dan Gutman
I heard about this book on John Oliver's political TV show on HBO. He linked it to a discussion he had one evening about Donald Trump. He said, basically, that Donald Trump's candidacy was similar to Judson Moon's (the main character in the book) candidacy. Except that instead of being 70, Judson moon was 12 (at which point her made some snarky comment about Trump often acting like he's 12). I was intrigued to read this book to discover what Oliver was talking about. I was further intrigued when I couldn't get the book on Amazon right away because it was sold out. It made me wonder if I was not alone in checking on the book as I listened to John Oliver talk about the novel.
As I read The Kid Who Ran for President, I marked passages that reminded me of the currently presidential race. I marked 16 different scenes in the 150 page book that reminded me of our current race for the White House. (Note: this book was written in 1996) Mostly the passages reminded me of Trump, as Oliver noted in his show, but some could've been about Hillary, too. Or really any other candidate.
I think this is a good book to read with older elementary aged kids before a presidential election, so I am passing this off to my friend who teaches 5th graders, but I think older students, like my daughter who is taking AP Government this year, could read it and find the irony and humor in it that I picked up on as an adult reader.
John Oliver suggested that Trump follow suit, and like Judson Moon renounce his candidacy. I hope Trump wasn't watching that night. I need him to win and to move into the White House. Of course, that means Oliver didn't realize there is a sequel to this book: The Kid Who Became President. Oliver says Moon reminds him of Trump. In this case, I hope Oliver is spot on right.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
As I read The Kid Who Ran for President, I marked passages that reminded me of the currently presidential race. I marked 16 different scenes in the 150 page book that reminded me of our current race for the White House. (Note: this book was written in 1996) Mostly the passages reminded me of Trump, as Oliver noted in his show, but some could've been about Hillary, too. Or really any other candidate.
I think this is a good book to read with older elementary aged kids before a presidential election, so I am passing this off to my friend who teaches 5th graders, but I think older students, like my daughter who is taking AP Government this year, could read it and find the irony and humor in it that I picked up on as an adult reader.
John Oliver suggested that Trump follow suit, and like Judson Moon renounce his candidacy. I hope Trump wasn't watching that night. I need him to win and to move into the White House. Of course, that means Oliver didn't realize there is a sequel to this book: The Kid Who Became President. Oliver says Moon reminds him of Trump. In this case, I hope Oliver is spot on right.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
#36: The Wedding Dress by Rachel Hauck
I love reading books about weddings. Maybe it's because I am a girl. Maybe it's because my wedding was simple and economical and I like to read about extravagant over the top weddings. Maybe it's because I am a hopeless romantic. Whatever the reason, I love a good wedding story and The Wedding Dress is a good wedding story.
If you like reading books about weddings, the story of Charlotte, a bridal gown retailer, who waffles about her own engagement and then finds a very mysterious wedding gown (mysterious as in Traveling Pants mysterious), will warm your heart, as it reminds you that some things in life are just meant to be.
This is a beautiful story!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
If you like reading books about weddings, the story of Charlotte, a bridal gown retailer, who waffles about her own engagement and then finds a very mysterious wedding gown (mysterious as in Traveling Pants mysterious), will warm your heart, as it reminds you that some things in life are just meant to be.
This is a beautiful story!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
#35: Wilde Lake by Laura Lippman
I heard about Wilde Lake from the author's mouth--literally. Lippman spoke about her book at the Junior League book and author event I attended back in May. She had a remarkable way of speaking about her book, giving only the slightest hints at actions and events, enticing us all into reading the book and finding out what really happened all those years ago on Wilde Lake. Well...I am certainly not going to spoil it for you here, but I will give you some inside information about the book so you can decide if it's worth your time to read the book.
Cutting to the chase, Wilde Lake is a suspenseful, murder mystery. I don't typically read this genre, but Lippman sells her book well and I was anxious to read it. It's told by Lu, Luisa Brant, the newly elected state's attorney of Howard County, Maryland. She tells the story in alternating chapters: one chapter is her present day story and the next is a chapter detailing her memories from the past. When you combine events of the past with events of the present, you get the full story of what happened one night on Wilde Lake involving her bother, his friends, and a girl. It takes a current murder case that Lu is working on for her to truly understand events that took place 30 years before.
It's a cleverly told story but it's hard to read at times. Or at least it was for me. There's a reason I don't typically read these sorts of books--I don't like to read about what I can see in brutal detail on the news each night. However, this was a superbly written story so I don't blame Lippman for gory details.
If you are fans of Patricia Cornwell, or even John Grisham, you'd like this one. Come to think of it, I should save it for my in-laws. They love these sorts of books!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Cutting to the chase, Wilde Lake is a suspenseful, murder mystery. I don't typically read this genre, but Lippman sells her book well and I was anxious to read it. It's told by Lu, Luisa Brant, the newly elected state's attorney of Howard County, Maryland. She tells the story in alternating chapters: one chapter is her present day story and the next is a chapter detailing her memories from the past. When you combine events of the past with events of the present, you get the full story of what happened one night on Wilde Lake involving her bother, his friends, and a girl. It takes a current murder case that Lu is working on for her to truly understand events that took place 30 years before.
It's a cleverly told story but it's hard to read at times. Or at least it was for me. There's a reason I don't typically read these sorts of books--I don't like to read about what I can see in brutal detail on the news each night. However, this was a superbly written story so I don't blame Lippman for gory details.
If you are fans of Patricia Cornwell, or even John Grisham, you'd like this one. Come to think of it, I should save it for my in-laws. They love these sorts of books!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
#34: Saving Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyla
It wasn't long ago that I blogged about the first two Mr. Terupt books in this trilogy. I loved them and was couldn't wait for the third to arrive (in paperback) and to find out how the story ends.
As with the first two, Saving Mr. Terupt didn't disappoint. It was a great story. But I will say this about books two and three...I see them less and less as books appropriate for elementary school kids. The first one was written about Fifth graders so I see no reason why Fifth graders can't read and appreciate the book. But in the next two, the kids move on to middle school and with middle school students come middle school issues, and words, and actions which leads me to suggest that the second and third books should be reserved for middle school kids (or adults who just like to stay on top of children's literature).
Aside from that, the quality of literature is still top-notch as Buyla continues his ingenious way of writing from the perspective of the students and creating a persona in Mr. Terupt who is created from other people's perceptions and accounts. It's rather clever, I think.
I want to thank Meghan for telling me about this amazing series of books. They are incredible! Could there be more in the works? Mr. Buyea, I'd read them all--eighth grade through graduation. If you write them, I will read them! And I feel certain that I am not the only one who feels this way!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
As with the first two, Saving Mr. Terupt didn't disappoint. It was a great story. But I will say this about books two and three...I see them less and less as books appropriate for elementary school kids. The first one was written about Fifth graders so I see no reason why Fifth graders can't read and appreciate the book. But in the next two, the kids move on to middle school and with middle school students come middle school issues, and words, and actions which leads me to suggest that the second and third books should be reserved for middle school kids (or adults who just like to stay on top of children's literature).
Aside from that, the quality of literature is still top-notch as Buyla continues his ingenious way of writing from the perspective of the students and creating a persona in Mr. Terupt who is created from other people's perceptions and accounts. It's rather clever, I think.
I want to thank Meghan for telling me about this amazing series of books. They are incredible! Could there be more in the works? Mr. Buyea, I'd read them all--eighth grade through graduation. If you write them, I will read them! And I feel certain that I am not the only one who feels this way!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
#33: Sweet Tomorrows by Debbie Macomber
Sweet Tomorrows is the latest book in the Rose Harbor series written by romance novelist Debbie Macomber. The series was started in response to readers who were saddened that Macomber had finished her Cedar Cove series and who longed to hear more about the residents of Cedar Cove. Macomber then created Jo Marie Rose, owner and proprietor of the Rose Harbor Inn, a place where people come to find solace and to get questions answered. Not that Jo Marie promises any of this to her guests, there's just something special about the Rose Harbor Inn and people leave feeling comforted and ready to head back to life.
This installation of the series focuses on Jo Marie herself (she isn't typically a main character in the books) and a guest named Emily. Jo Marie is waiting to hear about her love, Mark Taylor, as he participates in a top secret military mission overseas. Emily is trying to figure out her life after two broken engagements. Both women learn not only to rely on each other for support but also to help each other as they both search for answers as they try to move forward with their lives.
I love this series of books. I was skeptical at first because the entire story line of this new series seemed to be so depressing. It's not. The stories are actually quite heartwarming and inspirational.
I just don't like having to wait an entire year before getting the next part of the story! :( It's always worth the wait in the end, but the waiting is never any fun!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
This installation of the series focuses on Jo Marie herself (she isn't typically a main character in the books) and a guest named Emily. Jo Marie is waiting to hear about her love, Mark Taylor, as he participates in a top secret military mission overseas. Emily is trying to figure out her life after two broken engagements. Both women learn not only to rely on each other for support but also to help each other as they both search for answers as they try to move forward with their lives.
I love this series of books. I was skeptical at first because the entire story line of this new series seemed to be so depressing. It's not. The stories are actually quite heartwarming and inspirational.
I just don't like having to wait an entire year before getting the next part of the story! :( It's always worth the wait in the end, but the waiting is never any fun!
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
#32: The Avalon Ladies Scrapbooking Society by Darien Gee
Thank heavens for my iPhone! I was on the train to Rome when I finished my last book and did not have another, as I did not want to lug a bunch of heavy books around with me from city to city across Italy (although I was totally willing to lug new leather handbags--priorities, you know). So thank heavens for my iPhone and the wireless in the hotel. I was able to access my Nook account and I pulled up The Avalon Ladies Scrapbooking Society and was no longer book deprived! Hooray!
I started this book over a year ago and just never finished for whatever reason, but this ended up being a good book to read while traveling. It was easy to read and to follow the plot, the characters (there are a lot) were easy to remember and hilarious, and the chapters weren't too long so it was easy to read little snippets here and there.
It doesn't take long to realize that this book had to be written in the middle of the scrapbooking craze of the late 1990's/early 2000's as everyone in the book has discovered scrapping and are making a scrapbook for every little thing. As a scrapper myself (well...sort of...I haven't made a page in years but I totally should as Emily is still waiting for me to finish her elementary school book) it was cute to remember how excited I was at first to record every little memory.
What struck me as the best aspect of this novel was how real it is. Avalon is a quaint little town with real people who have troubles, arguments, struggles and disappointments as well as miracles, celebrations, and good times. Sometimes we read to escape real life but sometimes it nice to read and to find that we are not alone in our daily life struggles and challenges. It's reassuring.
This is a great story and I am glad that I picked it up and finished it.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
I started this book over a year ago and just never finished for whatever reason, but this ended up being a good book to read while traveling. It was easy to read and to follow the plot, the characters (there are a lot) were easy to remember and hilarious, and the chapters weren't too long so it was easy to read little snippets here and there.
It doesn't take long to realize that this book had to be written in the middle of the scrapbooking craze of the late 1990's/early 2000's as everyone in the book has discovered scrapping and are making a scrapbook for every little thing. As a scrapper myself (well...sort of...I haven't made a page in years but I totally should as Emily is still waiting for me to finish her elementary school book) it was cute to remember how excited I was at first to record every little memory.
What struck me as the best aspect of this novel was how real it is. Avalon is a quaint little town with real people who have troubles, arguments, struggles and disappointments as well as miracles, celebrations, and good times. Sometimes we read to escape real life but sometimes it nice to read and to find that we are not alone in our daily life struggles and challenges. It's reassuring.
This is a great story and I am glad that I picked it up and finished it.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Friday, September 2, 2016
#31: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
I brought The Light Between Oceans with me on our recent trip to Italy, to read on the plane and on train trips between cities. I never counted on not being able to put this book down once I started reading and that I would finish it way before our 10 hour plane ride home, leaving me with only a e-book on my phone to read on the trip home (every book lovers' nightmare).
The story is about Tom and Isabel, a couple who live on an isolated island off the coast of Australia, as Tom is the light keeper on Janus Rock. They both love where they live, no matter how remote or frequently visited by others, and are excited to find out that they are expecting a baby. However, as miscarriage after miscarriage devastates this young couple, they both become sadder and sadder and question their life on the island. But one day Tom finds a boat, washed ashore, that contains a dead man and a small baby girl: alive, hungry, and crying. What happens next forms the plot of this story and I don't dare give it away.
What I will say is that I could not imagine facing the choices this family has to face--it was heart breaking. I finished the book on the train from Florence to Rome and I am fairly positive there is an Italian mother with two daughters who sat with me that day that are still telling their friends and family about the crazy American woman who was bawling her eyes out in the seat next to/across from them. I can't wait to see the movie but know I will be bawling there too. Maybe it will be a sunny day when I see the movie and I can wear my sunglasses home to hide my red, puffy eyes.
This one should be on your list of must-reads. It's a phenomenal story.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
The story is about Tom and Isabel, a couple who live on an isolated island off the coast of Australia, as Tom is the light keeper on Janus Rock. They both love where they live, no matter how remote or frequently visited by others, and are excited to find out that they are expecting a baby. However, as miscarriage after miscarriage devastates this young couple, they both become sadder and sadder and question their life on the island. But one day Tom finds a boat, washed ashore, that contains a dead man and a small baby girl: alive, hungry, and crying. What happens next forms the plot of this story and I don't dare give it away.
What I will say is that I could not imagine facing the choices this family has to face--it was heart breaking. I finished the book on the train from Florence to Rome and I am fairly positive there is an Italian mother with two daughters who sat with me that day that are still telling their friends and family about the crazy American woman who was bawling her eyes out in the seat next to/across from them. I can't wait to see the movie but know I will be bawling there too. Maybe it will be a sunny day when I see the movie and I can wear my sunglasses home to hide my red, puffy eyes.
This one should be on your list of must-reads. It's a phenomenal story.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
#30: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by Rowling, Tiffany, and Thorne
This newest Harry Potter story is a must-read for any self-respecting Harry Potter fan. It answers the question "What happens next?" (well...next as in next after 19 years have gone by) for the main characters and their new families. The story focuses primarily on Albus, Harry's youngest boy, and it centers on his actions resulting from the pressure he feels because he is Harry's child and Severus Snape and Albus Dumbledore's namesake. This "story" is actually the rehearsal script for the play currently being produced and performed in London, so I found it to be a quicker read than any of the other seven books that were typically filled with lengthy descriptions and copious details. I really enjoyed this glimpse into the life of my favorites: Ginny, Hermione, Ron, and Harry. I just wish there were more--I'd read them all and I am sure that I am not alone!
I am also secretly hoping we can get tickets too see this play (done in two acts over two different nights) when we travel to London next summer. I'd be overjoyed to see this!
If you like Harry, you MUST read this one!
Happy reading, everyone!
:)Dodie
I am also secretly hoping we can get tickets too see this play (done in two acts over two different nights) when we travel to London next summer. I'd be overjoyed to see this!
If you like Harry, you MUST read this one!
Happy reading, everyone!
:)Dodie
#29: Happy Wives Club by Fawn Weaver
OK. So I feel as though this choice of book, without explanation, could cause speculation and conversation among those of you who actually read my blog. As a result, you are getting a brief explanation of this choice of reading material.
I ran across The Happy Wives Club (yes...this is an actual club that you can join online) in an article about marriage that I was reading on Pinterest. (Please note: I am happily married and I feel that the key to staying this way is to keep marriage a priority, so I read a lot about ways to keep things "good.") The idea of a world-wide "club" of women, all dedicated to their marriages and to giving marriage a good reputation was exciting for me. So I joined the club and made my commitment to "changing the tone about marriage" and I ordered Fawn's book from Amazon, ready to learn the great secrets of happy marriages around the world.
Fawn's book is a summary of her travels around the world as she interviews long-time married women and uncovers the secrets of a happy marriage. Sounds great! But, what the book really is is Fawn's travel journal. I got more details about the places she visited and foods she ate than the secrets of happily married women. The reason for that is that there is really only one secret: mutual respect among partners. I heard this chapter after chapter, country after country, and while it was great that there IS a key to a long lasting and happy marriage, I didn't need an entire book to learn that. She could've written a concise paragraph on her Happy Wives Club website. But, that wouldn't have covered the cost of her traveling, of course. Sales from her book, I am certain, did.
The idea for the book is a good one, and even though I was expecting something more profound, it was a cute book to read in terms of learning about different countries (because I did--this was a very detailed travel journal) and it was reassuring that I had stayed married for 22 years because I believe Rob and I need to be respectful of one another, our dreams, and our interests.
I still believe in the premise of The Happy Wives Club and am proud to be a member.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
I ran across The Happy Wives Club (yes...this is an actual club that you can join online) in an article about marriage that I was reading on Pinterest. (Please note: I am happily married and I feel that the key to staying this way is to keep marriage a priority, so I read a lot about ways to keep things "good.") The idea of a world-wide "club" of women, all dedicated to their marriages and to giving marriage a good reputation was exciting for me. So I joined the club and made my commitment to "changing the tone about marriage" and I ordered Fawn's book from Amazon, ready to learn the great secrets of happy marriages around the world.
Fawn's book is a summary of her travels around the world as she interviews long-time married women and uncovers the secrets of a happy marriage. Sounds great! But, what the book really is is Fawn's travel journal. I got more details about the places she visited and foods she ate than the secrets of happily married women. The reason for that is that there is really only one secret: mutual respect among partners. I heard this chapter after chapter, country after country, and while it was great that there IS a key to a long lasting and happy marriage, I didn't need an entire book to learn that. She could've written a concise paragraph on her Happy Wives Club website. But, that wouldn't have covered the cost of her traveling, of course. Sales from her book, I am certain, did.
The idea for the book is a good one, and even though I was expecting something more profound, it was a cute book to read in terms of learning about different countries (because I did--this was a very detailed travel journal) and it was reassuring that I had stayed married for 22 years because I believe Rob and I need to be respectful of one another, our dreams, and our interests.
I still believe in the premise of The Happy Wives Club and am proud to be a member.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
Friday, July 29, 2016
#28: Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty
Truly Madly Guilty is the story of three couples: Oliver and Erika, Vid and Tiffany, and Sam and Clementine. Their lives are connected as neighbors and friends of friends but they become totally connected one afternoon at a barbecue. "This is a story that begins with a barbecue" says Clementine on the first page (first line actually) of the book.
The problem is that you don't learn what really happens at the BBQ until about half-way through the book. Until then, you are (or at least I was) frantically reading and turning pages as fast as possible to find out what happens. Each chapter leaves you with a cliffhanger and since the chapters are told in an alternating way it's several chapters later before you find out what happens after each little cliffhanger. Moriarty is very good at creating suspense.
With that being said, when you are finally told what happened at the BBQ, it's very hard to read. I did put the book down for a while and almost dreaded going back to it. The second half of the book, then, details everyone's attempts to reconcile what happened at the BBQ and to put their shattered lives back together.
And just when you think the entire book has resolved it all and everyone will be ok, chapter 83 comes along and rocks your world all over again, adding a sad new twist to the story that you thought was basically over. Moriarty is also good at making your mouth drop open in disbelief.
I have yet to read a book by Liane Moriarty that I didn't love. If you want a page turner, read this one. Oh, and then go learn CPR.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
The problem is that you don't learn what really happens at the BBQ until about half-way through the book. Until then, you are (or at least I was) frantically reading and turning pages as fast as possible to find out what happens. Each chapter leaves you with a cliffhanger and since the chapters are told in an alternating way it's several chapters later before you find out what happens after each little cliffhanger. Moriarty is very good at creating suspense.
With that being said, when you are finally told what happened at the BBQ, it's very hard to read. I did put the book down for a while and almost dreaded going back to it. The second half of the book, then, details everyone's attempts to reconcile what happened at the BBQ and to put their shattered lives back together.
And just when you think the entire book has resolved it all and everyone will be ok, chapter 83 comes along and rocks your world all over again, adding a sad new twist to the story that you thought was basically over. Moriarty is also good at making your mouth drop open in disbelief.
I have yet to read a book by Liane Moriarty that I didn't love. If you want a page turner, read this one. Oh, and then go learn CPR.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
#26 and #27: Because of Mr. Terupt and Mr. Terupt Falls Again by Rob Buyea
My friend Meghan read these books and loved them. No wonder why--she's a fifth grade teacher and the story hits close to home as Mr. Terupt is a fifth grade teacher. Because of Mr. Terupt is Buyea's first novel. After teaching for several years, he turned to writing full time and while I can only imagine what a great teacher he was, he's truly found his calling with writing novels. I'm not the only one who agrees...the first book in this trilogy (Saving Mr. Terupt is the last one but I haven't read it because it isn't being delivered to my house until late August, but just know that there is a third book) won seven state awards and was named an E.B. White Read Aloud Honor Book. I feel certain that my friend Meghan's fifth graders will be hearing this book this year! I wonder if she will let me come listen...
What makes these books truly unique (aside from the plot...but I am not going to spoil that one) is Mr. Terupt himself, a character created from the first person accounts we get from each of his students told in alternating chapters. Mr. Terupt never gets a chapter of his own to tell his story in either books (Mr. Terupt Falls Again chronicles the students' sixth grade year and I have been told that Saving Mr. Terupt is about seventh grade) but yet we get to know him intimately through the eyes of his students. As a teacher myself, this was eye-opening--to see what the children in our classes see on a daily basis, to hear what they think about, wonder about. These books are amazing.
Now, I won't lie. I got mad at Lexie in the first book and didm't want to keep reading, but was urged to and am glad that I did. I also got upset with the plot in book one (there's a tragedy) and didn't pick up the book for an entire day (true story) before I was again urged to keep reading and I am glad that I did.
Mr friend Meghan said that she'd happily read a book about eighth grade, one about ninth grade, and so on and so on. So, I thought I'd put this out there. Just in case Mr. Buyea ever reads this. You never know. Authors have read and commented on my blogs before, so it could happen. I'm right there with her. So, Mr. Buyea...if you write them, we will read them! :)
Happy reading!
-Dodie
What makes these books truly unique (aside from the plot...but I am not going to spoil that one) is Mr. Terupt himself, a character created from the first person accounts we get from each of his students told in alternating chapters. Mr. Terupt never gets a chapter of his own to tell his story in either books (Mr. Terupt Falls Again chronicles the students' sixth grade year and I have been told that Saving Mr. Terupt is about seventh grade) but yet we get to know him intimately through the eyes of his students. As a teacher myself, this was eye-opening--to see what the children in our classes see on a daily basis, to hear what they think about, wonder about. These books are amazing.
Now, I won't lie. I got mad at Lexie in the first book and didm't want to keep reading, but was urged to and am glad that I did. I also got upset with the plot in book one (there's a tragedy) and didn't pick up the book for an entire day (true story) before I was again urged to keep reading and I am glad that I did.
Mr friend Meghan said that she'd happily read a book about eighth grade, one about ninth grade, and so on and so on. So, I thought I'd put this out there. Just in case Mr. Buyea ever reads this. You never know. Authors have read and commented on my blogs before, so it could happen. I'm right there with her. So, Mr. Buyea...if you write them, we will read them! :)
Happy reading!
-Dodie
#25: The Beginner's Goodbye by Anne Tyler
The Beginner's Goodbye is the sweetest, saddest tale of Aaron and Dorothy, husband and wife. Aaron and Dorothy have the most unique spousal relationship I have known or read about and it seems to work for them. Until it doesn't. Not because of any scandal, but because of a tragedy, the result of which leaves Aaron alone. The story that ensues is Aaron's story as he tries to make sense of his life with his beloved Dorothy gone.
This book hits on my greatest fear in life--Rob leaving me suddenly, with no time for goodbyes or telling him how much I love him and care for him--as well as my second fear--being forced to live without him. In such a sweet and touching way, Aaron realizes both of these fears and he does what I could only hope that I might if I were ever faced with such tragedy. What I love most is that Aaron does it all his own way and on his own time table. He mourns and grieves and eventually he moves on and lives again (of course, he was very young and should've moved on and love again).
I adore the title of the book and should you ever choose to read this wonderful novel, you will learn it's significance then. I won't spoil it for you today!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
This book hits on my greatest fear in life--Rob leaving me suddenly, with no time for goodbyes or telling him how much I love him and care for him--as well as my second fear--being forced to live without him. In such a sweet and touching way, Aaron realizes both of these fears and he does what I could only hope that I might if I were ever faced with such tragedy. What I love most is that Aaron does it all his own way and on his own time table. He mourns and grieves and eventually he moves on and lives again (of course, he was very young and should've moved on and love again).
I adore the title of the book and should you ever choose to read this wonderful novel, you will learn it's significance then. I won't spoil it for you today!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
#24: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
The Glass Castle should be on your reading list. It is the story of Jeannette Walls and her unique family, written by Walls herself. It is unlike anything I have ever read before and certainly lends itself to support the old adage "Truth is stranger than fiction." I grew up in a household that few of my friends could completely comprehend and while this book often reminded me of my often bizarre childhood/teenage years, Walls' life outshines mine for sure. And I am OK with that.
While Walls is roughly the same age as me, we grew up in a different time. Had the things that had happened to her happened today, after the burns she suffered at age three cooking her own hot dogs because her mother couldn't be bothered, CPS would've stepped in so fast there would not have been a chapter three. But life was different then and so there is a chapter four and lots more weird, sad, touching, heart-warming, and dangerous things keep on happening in the life of Walls and her siblings and her parents.
This is an amazing memoir and I am so glad that I read it. It reminds me that children are resilient, they are determined, they can forge their own paths despite the ones their parents take, and beyond all else it let me know once and for all that my family is not the craziest one out there! Phew!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
While Walls is roughly the same age as me, we grew up in a different time. Had the things that had happened to her happened today, after the burns she suffered at age three cooking her own hot dogs because her mother couldn't be bothered, CPS would've stepped in so fast there would not have been a chapter three. But life was different then and so there is a chapter four and lots more weird, sad, touching, heart-warming, and dangerous things keep on happening in the life of Walls and her siblings and her parents.
This is an amazing memoir and I am so glad that I read it. It reminds me that children are resilient, they are determined, they can forge their own paths despite the ones their parents take, and beyond all else it let me know once and for all that my family is not the craziest one out there! Phew!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
Thursday, July 7, 2016
#23: The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald
Ok. So...I read about this novel in some publication (newspaper, magazine, can't really recall) and thought it sounded clever so I ordered it. It then sat on my shelf (Thank you, Outlander obsession) until a friend suggested that I read it, so now that I am between Outlander books, I picked it up and read it. And I am sadly disappointed.
A reviewer (Nancy Simpson-Brice, Book Vault) is quoted on the inside cover:
This heartwarming story is the answer for those who loved The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry. Book lovers will applaud Sara and her love of books. Book clubs will delight in this delightful caper through book-loving middle American. Read this and smile!
Sigh...Where do I begin?
1. The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is in a league of it's own. Although I was excited to read this comparison and thought for sure I'd like Broken Wheel because of this connection. The two stories are nothing alike. Nothing.
2. Perhaps I should not put stock in a reviewer who uses "delight" and "delightful" in the same sentence. My 9th grade daughter even knows better than to do that. English 101 people. Come on.
3. Yes...Sara loved books. Sara loved books so much because it was easier to read than live. Her books and her love of reading was shared with her friend Amy, the Broken Wheel townie who she leaves Sweeden to visit, only to find her DOA. Seriously. But, I don't applaud Sara's love of books. If she was doing something fabulous with her love of books, yes, I'd applaud. But she hides from the world because of her books. Even when she opens the bookstore, she doesn't do what she could do to make her town love to read. Which leads me to...
4. Book-loving middle America? Hardly. Sara opens a bookstore and no one reads the books. Well...one or two people do, but Sara hardly inspires the town to read. She inspires the gossips to come out and check out her store but she only sells 2-3 books a day. This town doesn't read! At all! Ok...John reads Bridget Jones' Diary. And finds it to be hilarious. Which I find to be hilarious, but one man does not a town make.
5. I did like the story. I like Sara and Tom and I think the use of Amy's letters is clever but I think the novel as a whole fails in it's attempt to be a book about a book lover who inspires others to read books.
I'd also like to say that the laundry list of characters in the novel was hard to keep straight in my head because there was nothing about each character that made me remember him/her. Except Josh and Caroline. They are my favorites and I'd read a book about just them. Maybe Bivald can explore this for her second novel.
As with any book, I think readers should make their own decisions about books and whether or not to read them. Just because I didn't love it, doesn't mean you won't. Maybe I wasn't in the right frame of mind. Maybe I was so in love with A.J. Fikry that even Shakespeare wouldn't have compared in my mind. Of course, it may also be true that Bivald's first attempt at writing didn't produce the desired results. Bottom line, Reader, you be the judge. This is just my opinion and you are entitled to yours!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
A reviewer (Nancy Simpson-Brice, Book Vault) is quoted on the inside cover:
This heartwarming story is the answer for those who loved The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry. Book lovers will applaud Sara and her love of books. Book clubs will delight in this delightful caper through book-loving middle American. Read this and smile!
Sigh...Where do I begin?
1. The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is in a league of it's own. Although I was excited to read this comparison and thought for sure I'd like Broken Wheel because of this connection. The two stories are nothing alike. Nothing.
2. Perhaps I should not put stock in a reviewer who uses "delight" and "delightful" in the same sentence. My 9th grade daughter even knows better than to do that. English 101 people. Come on.
3. Yes...Sara loved books. Sara loved books so much because it was easier to read than live. Her books and her love of reading was shared with her friend Amy, the Broken Wheel townie who she leaves Sweeden to visit, only to find her DOA. Seriously. But, I don't applaud Sara's love of books. If she was doing something fabulous with her love of books, yes, I'd applaud. But she hides from the world because of her books. Even when she opens the bookstore, she doesn't do what she could do to make her town love to read. Which leads me to...
4. Book-loving middle America? Hardly. Sara opens a bookstore and no one reads the books. Well...one or two people do, but Sara hardly inspires the town to read. She inspires the gossips to come out and check out her store but she only sells 2-3 books a day. This town doesn't read! At all! Ok...John reads Bridget Jones' Diary. And finds it to be hilarious. Which I find to be hilarious, but one man does not a town make.
5. I did like the story. I like Sara and Tom and I think the use of Amy's letters is clever but I think the novel as a whole fails in it's attempt to be a book about a book lover who inspires others to read books.
I'd also like to say that the laundry list of characters in the novel was hard to keep straight in my head because there was nothing about each character that made me remember him/her. Except Josh and Caroline. They are my favorites and I'd read a book about just them. Maybe Bivald can explore this for her second novel.
As with any book, I think readers should make their own decisions about books and whether or not to read them. Just because I didn't love it, doesn't mean you won't. Maybe I wasn't in the right frame of mind. Maybe I was so in love with A.J. Fikry that even Shakespeare wouldn't have compared in my mind. Of course, it may also be true that Bivald's first attempt at writing didn't produce the desired results. Bottom line, Reader, you be the judge. This is just my opinion and you are entitled to yours!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
#22: First Comes Love by Emily Giffin
I love reading books by Emily Giffin. I just love her characters and her stories and I look forward to her publishing dates because of it.
Reading First Comes Love was no different for me. I was elated to get the emails from Barnes and Noble and Amazon. I was excited to pre-order the book (and was even more excited to learn that I saved money with Amazon's pre-order price guarantee) and was so happy that the book reading Gods smiled down on me and I finished one book the same day Giffin's book arrived in my mailbox. I happily parked myself on my favorite part of the sofa and devoured First Comes Love in a little over a day. I felt more like I was watching a movie than reading it book. Each word flowed into the next so smoothly. Reading this book was certainly not work.
The first chapter sent me reeling in despair but then I settled into the stories of Josie and Meredith, sisters who are more different than night and day. Told in alternating chapters, we get the current stories of these sisters as they try to make the most of the lives they have. Both are unhappy but one (Josie) is trying hard to find happiness while the other (Meredith) just sort of feels like she has to deal with the life she has and not complain about it.
I'd like to tell you that in the end both end up happy and both get what they want from life, but I am fairly certain there was no real end to this story. I mean, the book ended. The pages ran out, but I am pretty sure the stories of Josie and Meredith have just begun. Fans of Emily Giffin will recall Something Borrowed, followed by Something Blue, a sequel of sorts. I am so hoping that First Comes Love will be followed by "Then Comes Marriage," because I NEED to know what happens to these characters. NEED. TO. KNOW.
You will love this story. Trust me. You will. But maybe do yourself a favor and wait and read it in about a year and a half. It takes Giffin about two years to write/publish a book so by then she might be close to publishing the next book and you can read one and then go straight into the other. And if I find out that this book is stand alone, I will be emailing Giffin for some answers. Because she left this one hanging with a lot of unanswered questions.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
Reading First Comes Love was no different for me. I was elated to get the emails from Barnes and Noble and Amazon. I was excited to pre-order the book (and was even more excited to learn that I saved money with Amazon's pre-order price guarantee) and was so happy that the book reading Gods smiled down on me and I finished one book the same day Giffin's book arrived in my mailbox. I happily parked myself on my favorite part of the sofa and devoured First Comes Love in a little over a day. I felt more like I was watching a movie than reading it book. Each word flowed into the next so smoothly. Reading this book was certainly not work.
The first chapter sent me reeling in despair but then I settled into the stories of Josie and Meredith, sisters who are more different than night and day. Told in alternating chapters, we get the current stories of these sisters as they try to make the most of the lives they have. Both are unhappy but one (Josie) is trying hard to find happiness while the other (Meredith) just sort of feels like she has to deal with the life she has and not complain about it.
I'd like to tell you that in the end both end up happy and both get what they want from life, but I am fairly certain there was no real end to this story. I mean, the book ended. The pages ran out, but I am pretty sure the stories of Josie and Meredith have just begun. Fans of Emily Giffin will recall Something Borrowed, followed by Something Blue, a sequel of sorts. I am so hoping that First Comes Love will be followed by "Then Comes Marriage," because I NEED to know what happens to these characters. NEED. TO. KNOW.
You will love this story. Trust me. You will. But maybe do yourself a favor and wait and read it in about a year and a half. It takes Giffin about two years to write/publish a book so by then she might be close to publishing the next book and you can read one and then go straight into the other. And if I find out that this book is stand alone, I will be emailing Giffin for some answers. Because she left this one hanging with a lot of unanswered questions.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
#21: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver is the seven day story of the death of Samantha Kingston, a terrifyingly realistic high school senior.
As I read this book, I wondered if it would be a good thing to let my girls read. I ultimately decided that talking to them about the events of the book was a better choice. Not surprisingly, I heard that many girls at their high school behaved like Sam. I warned them that they better not be two of them. If so, I was not going to be happy!
Sam begins her story as a very popular, nothing can touch me, I have it all, high school senior on her favorite day of the year: Cupid Day, the day when she and her friends can prove just how popular they are by the number of Cupid Day roses they receive (the bigger your bouquet, the more popular you are). During this first day, I found myself loathing Sam and her three besties: Lindsay, Ally, and Elody. They are the sort of girls I spent 4 years of high school trying to avoid at all costs. They are the girls I see now at the pool with my own girls and we move away from. They are not nice girls. They are the girls I warn my daughters to not become because eventually what goes around comes around.
Now in this particular story, Sam dies in a car accident. Let me be frank and say that in no way do I think that this is what Sam deserves. This is simply the plot of this particular story. There is a slight plot twist: at the end of chapter one, after Sam hears metal crunching and glass breaking and she blacks out, she wakes up at the start of Cupid Day and repeats her day, like Groundhog Day for teenagers. There are seven chapters in the story--one for each day that Sam repeats Cupid Day. During her repeats she wonders if she can re-write history, maybe change her behavior and live in the end. Through a lot of self-reflection and a lot of self-discovery, Sam discovers what should've happened the night of Cupid Day and is able to finally live out her true destiny.
I will be honest and will tell you that, as a mother of two teenaged girls, this book terrified. The thought of smart, beautiful girls behaving like Sam and her friends is truly terrifying. I can only hope that this book will serve as a warning for what might happen should anyone choose this path for their lives.
Read this one with caution.
-Dodie
As I read this book, I wondered if it would be a good thing to let my girls read. I ultimately decided that talking to them about the events of the book was a better choice. Not surprisingly, I heard that many girls at their high school behaved like Sam. I warned them that they better not be two of them. If so, I was not going to be happy!
Sam begins her story as a very popular, nothing can touch me, I have it all, high school senior on her favorite day of the year: Cupid Day, the day when she and her friends can prove just how popular they are by the number of Cupid Day roses they receive (the bigger your bouquet, the more popular you are). During this first day, I found myself loathing Sam and her three besties: Lindsay, Ally, and Elody. They are the sort of girls I spent 4 years of high school trying to avoid at all costs. They are the girls I see now at the pool with my own girls and we move away from. They are not nice girls. They are the girls I warn my daughters to not become because eventually what goes around comes around.
Now in this particular story, Sam dies in a car accident. Let me be frank and say that in no way do I think that this is what Sam deserves. This is simply the plot of this particular story. There is a slight plot twist: at the end of chapter one, after Sam hears metal crunching and glass breaking and she blacks out, she wakes up at the start of Cupid Day and repeats her day, like Groundhog Day for teenagers. There are seven chapters in the story--one for each day that Sam repeats Cupid Day. During her repeats she wonders if she can re-write history, maybe change her behavior and live in the end. Through a lot of self-reflection and a lot of self-discovery, Sam discovers what should've happened the night of Cupid Day and is able to finally live out her true destiny.
I will be honest and will tell you that, as a mother of two teenaged girls, this book terrified. The thought of smart, beautiful girls behaving like Sam and her friends is truly terrifying. I can only hope that this book will serve as a warning for what might happen should anyone choose this path for their lives.
Read this one with caution.
-Dodie
#20: The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat by Edward Kelsey Moore
I loved this story! Loved! And because I can't say it any better, I am going to quote Julia Glass, author of Three Junes and The Widower's Tale:
"What a delight and a privilege it is to be among the earliest readers of this breathtaking debut. The supremely gifted, supremely entertaining, and supremely big-hearted Edward Kelsey Moore has conjured up the story of an entire community and, at its sparkling center, a trio of memorable heroines. How I long to have Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean on speed dial!"
I would also like to say that should I ever start seeing Eleanor Roosevelt as I go about my daily business, I'm calling for help! (Readers you will have to read this delicious book to find out what I mean by this!)
This is a wonderful read! Pick it up and be delighted!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
"What a delight and a privilege it is to be among the earliest readers of this breathtaking debut. The supremely gifted, supremely entertaining, and supremely big-hearted Edward Kelsey Moore has conjured up the story of an entire community and, at its sparkling center, a trio of memorable heroines. How I long to have Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean on speed dial!"
I would also like to say that should I ever start seeing Eleanor Roosevelt as I go about my daily business, I'm calling for help! (Readers you will have to read this delicious book to find out what I mean by this!)
This is a wonderful read! Pick it up and be delighted!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
Monday, June 13, 2016
#19: Better Off Friends by Elizabeth Eulberg
Better Off Friends is the story of Macallan and Levi and it explores the age-old question: can guys and girls ever be just friends?
Macallan and Levi meet in middle school when Levi moves from California to Wisconsin and they almost instantly become friends. The story continues and evolves as they move through middle school and high school and realize that they may have more than just friendship feelings for each other.
I read this book at a time when my oldest daughter was dealing with a broken relationship and I am happy to be passing this book on to her as soon as I finish this blog for a couple of reasons.
1. This book reminds us how important friendship is to a relationship. I am convinced that my marriage has lasted as long as it has because I was friends with my husband for a year before we started dating. Friendship is an essential ingredient in a relationship.
2. This story details how complicated real relationships are. They are not easy and you have to work at them. Love is not all sunshine and unicorns and I think too many people these days think that if a relationship gets tough, it's time to get out. Wrong. It's time to roll up your sleeves and fix it. (Unless you really are just dating, then yes, it may be wise to just get out and move on.)
3. The story is told in alternating chapters by Macallan and Levi. Getting the first person male perspective on relationships (or female if you are a male reader) is enlightening. Knowing what boys thinking is eye-opening.
This is clearly a book written for young adults, but it was recommended to me by a middle school teacher so that makes perfect sense. The timing of this read could not have been better, however, and I am about to hand it off to my 17 year old who swears she's never going to date again. Maybe this book will help her to come around to the idea again one day.
Happy reading, friends!
-Dodie
Macallan and Levi meet in middle school when Levi moves from California to Wisconsin and they almost instantly become friends. The story continues and evolves as they move through middle school and high school and realize that they may have more than just friendship feelings for each other.
I read this book at a time when my oldest daughter was dealing with a broken relationship and I am happy to be passing this book on to her as soon as I finish this blog for a couple of reasons.
1. This book reminds us how important friendship is to a relationship. I am convinced that my marriage has lasted as long as it has because I was friends with my husband for a year before we started dating. Friendship is an essential ingredient in a relationship.
2. This story details how complicated real relationships are. They are not easy and you have to work at them. Love is not all sunshine and unicorns and I think too many people these days think that if a relationship gets tough, it's time to get out. Wrong. It's time to roll up your sleeves and fix it. (Unless you really are just dating, then yes, it may be wise to just get out and move on.)
3. The story is told in alternating chapters by Macallan and Levi. Getting the first person male perspective on relationships (or female if you are a male reader) is enlightening. Knowing what boys thinking is eye-opening.
This is clearly a book written for young adults, but it was recommended to me by a middle school teacher so that makes perfect sense. The timing of this read could not have been better, however, and I am about to hand it off to my 17 year old who swears she's never going to date again. Maybe this book will help her to come around to the idea again one day.
Happy reading, friends!
-Dodie
#18: Paperboy by Vince Vawter
In my effort to read more award winning books for children, I picked up Paperboy solely because it was a Newberry Honor book. It is now book #3 on my all-time favorite book list. I loved this book and dare you not to love it too.
Paperboy is the story of one summer in the life of Little Man, the summer he takes over the paper route of his friend Rat for one month. Little Man is actually typing the story that we read because he stutters and he can actually get words out more clearly when he types them. English teachers everywhere BEWARE! Little Man doesn't ever use commas in his writing because commas mean pauses and he pauses enough when he's trying to talk (whether he wants to or not, he says). So, in his writing he leaves them out and types "and" and lots of them! The story begins with Little Man telling us that he's typing the story of the stabbing because he can't tell us without stuttering. A stabbing? Yes, we are immediately hooked and want to know who was stabbed and why. But Little Man has to give us some background information first and set the stage for the stabbing (which does't actually happen for a while) and so the story begins.
As you could imagine, a paper route for a boy who doesn't like to talk due to a stuttering problem seems like an ideal job. But since this story is set in 1959 (and is the mostly true story of the author's own life), Little Man must collect for the paper every Friday. As a result, he has to figure out a way to communicate with the people from whom he must collect money and he uses a lot of the tricks that his speech therapist is teaching him in order to be a successful collector. During his collection, he meets some really interesting characters: Mrs. Worthington, Mr. Spiro, and a boy who watches TV. Mrs. Worthington seems to be having a rough go of life and Little Man begins to feel as though he needs to watch out for and protect her. Mr. Spiro is a truly wonderful man who sees beyond Little Man's stuttering and teaches him to believe in himself. I found myself looking forward to the sections in the book about Little Man's Friday night collections so I could read the conversations between Mr. Spiro and Little Man. The boy who watches TV has an interesting story and I will leave those details to you to find out on your own. I don't want to spoil a cool story. While I loved Little Man, my favorite character was Mr. Spiro, who reminded me with this words and actions how influential one person can be in the overall life of a child.
While Paperboy hooks us with the story of a stabbing (and the character of Ara T) and details some black-white racial issues (namely as they pertain to Mam, the lady who takes care of Little Man and his family home) stemming from the times, I personally don't think that's what this story is really all about. I see Paperboy being the story of Little Man's coming into his own, embracing who he is, and being proud of himself for the first time in his life. As I was reading early on, I was struck by the thought that Little Man was no ordinary 11 year old. He seems so much wiser and then it hit me. Little Man doesn't talk much. Instead, he listens and he observes. That's where his wisdom comes from--from listening and watching. If only more people would talk less and listen more. Imagine what the world would be like?
At points when I was reading Paperboy, I had to remind myself that I was reading a kid's book. It is intended for ages 10 and up but it in no way reads like a typical kids book. I can see why this was a Newberry Honor book, but what I'd really like to know is why it didn't win? Maybe I should find and read the winner from that year. It must've been pretty amazing to have beaten this one.
Happy reading, friends!
-Dodie
Paperboy is the story of one summer in the life of Little Man, the summer he takes over the paper route of his friend Rat for one month. Little Man is actually typing the story that we read because he stutters and he can actually get words out more clearly when he types them. English teachers everywhere BEWARE! Little Man doesn't ever use commas in his writing because commas mean pauses and he pauses enough when he's trying to talk (whether he wants to or not, he says). So, in his writing he leaves them out and types "and" and lots of them! The story begins with Little Man telling us that he's typing the story of the stabbing because he can't tell us without stuttering. A stabbing? Yes, we are immediately hooked and want to know who was stabbed and why. But Little Man has to give us some background information first and set the stage for the stabbing (which does't actually happen for a while) and so the story begins.
As you could imagine, a paper route for a boy who doesn't like to talk due to a stuttering problem seems like an ideal job. But since this story is set in 1959 (and is the mostly true story of the author's own life), Little Man must collect for the paper every Friday. As a result, he has to figure out a way to communicate with the people from whom he must collect money and he uses a lot of the tricks that his speech therapist is teaching him in order to be a successful collector. During his collection, he meets some really interesting characters: Mrs. Worthington, Mr. Spiro, and a boy who watches TV. Mrs. Worthington seems to be having a rough go of life and Little Man begins to feel as though he needs to watch out for and protect her. Mr. Spiro is a truly wonderful man who sees beyond Little Man's stuttering and teaches him to believe in himself. I found myself looking forward to the sections in the book about Little Man's Friday night collections so I could read the conversations between Mr. Spiro and Little Man. The boy who watches TV has an interesting story and I will leave those details to you to find out on your own. I don't want to spoil a cool story. While I loved Little Man, my favorite character was Mr. Spiro, who reminded me with this words and actions how influential one person can be in the overall life of a child.
While Paperboy hooks us with the story of a stabbing (and the character of Ara T) and details some black-white racial issues (namely as they pertain to Mam, the lady who takes care of Little Man and his family home) stemming from the times, I personally don't think that's what this story is really all about. I see Paperboy being the story of Little Man's coming into his own, embracing who he is, and being proud of himself for the first time in his life. As I was reading early on, I was struck by the thought that Little Man was no ordinary 11 year old. He seems so much wiser and then it hit me. Little Man doesn't talk much. Instead, he listens and he observes. That's where his wisdom comes from--from listening and watching. If only more people would talk less and listen more. Imagine what the world would be like?
At points when I was reading Paperboy, I had to remind myself that I was reading a kid's book. It is intended for ages 10 and up but it in no way reads like a typical kids book. I can see why this was a Newberry Honor book, but what I'd really like to know is why it didn't win? Maybe I should find and read the winner from that year. It must've been pretty amazing to have beaten this one.
Happy reading, friends!
-Dodie
#17: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
An old college friend suggested that I read The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry and after doing so it has soared to the top of my all-time favorite books list. Seriously, it's Wuthering Heights and then The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry. (and then probably the book I am going to blog about next)
I will be honest and admit that when I read the first chapter, I was a bit put off by Fikry. He was grouchy and seemed rather old (as it turns out he is younger than me!) and I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy reading a book about this man. I am glad that I kept with the book, because my opinion of A.J. quickly changed.
A.J. is a young widower who runs a bookstore that was the dream of his wife's. He's now alone in a small island town running a bookstore that is barely making it. Luckily, he possesses a rare copy of a collection of poems by Edgar Allen Poe, so all is not lost. He knows that he can sell this book and his life can change. But, when someone steals his book and his one shot at financial freedom, and a new life, is lost A.J. is thrown into complete despair until one night when someone leaves an unexpected surprise in his store. From this point on, A.J.'s life will never be the same.
The structure of the book is very clever: each chapter begins with a quick review of sorts of a short story that is particularly meaningful for Fikry. He is clearly writing these reviews for someone (Maya) but it takes us a long time to learn who Maya is and why he is writing these reviews for her. The chapter that follows, then, connects Fikry's life to the plot of the short story or the particular idea from the short story that Fikry found relevant to his life. It's all very clever, really, and it reminds the readers how impactful books and stories can really be upon our lives.
As I read this brilliant story, I felt in a way that Fikry and I would be rather good friends if he were not a character in a book, because he and I share the same feelings about books. For instance, when Fikry realizes that the publisher's representative that he has worked with for years has passed away and that he knew very little of the man despite that, "he had spent hours with the man over the last half-dozen years. They had only ever discussed books but what, in this life, is more personal than books?" (pg18) What is more personal than books? I can think of very little, to be honest. I read a lot of books and I get asked by a lot of people what I would recommend to read and I often have a hard time passing along a title because what appeals to me may/may not appeal to others. What I find compelling could bore other people. What moved me to tears might make someone else laugh. Books are personal.
And Fikry, so nice of him, goes on to explain why in a later short story review: "...the things we respond to at twenty are not necessarily the same things we will respond to at forty and vice versa. This is true in books and also in life." (pg 41) This is so true! We read and fall in love with certain books sometimes because they are brilliant works but sometimes because our brain and our hearts are ready for the words and emotions evoked by the words. I can't tell you how many books I have read in high school and college that I think back on with such fondness, but am terrified to read again knowing that I am in a different place in my life and the book may not have the same impact upon me again. I have not read many a book because I am terrified of destroying the memory of greatness certain books have inside my head and heart.
I marked one other passage from this amazing book, and not because of it's relevance to books and reading. I marked it because it's excellent advice to give to my girls: "Someday, you may think of marrying. Pick someone who thinks you're the only person in the room." (pg 159) A.J. Fikry is a wise man. I wish his bookstore were real and that I could work there with him.
This book has touched my heart and my mind. I recommend it to anyone who loves books, who loves the feelings they evoke, and who knows that just because I loved it, it doesn't mean they will and yet they want to read it anyway.
Happy reading, friends!
-Dodie
I will be honest and admit that when I read the first chapter, I was a bit put off by Fikry. He was grouchy and seemed rather old (as it turns out he is younger than me!) and I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy reading a book about this man. I am glad that I kept with the book, because my opinion of A.J. quickly changed.
A.J. is a young widower who runs a bookstore that was the dream of his wife's. He's now alone in a small island town running a bookstore that is barely making it. Luckily, he possesses a rare copy of a collection of poems by Edgar Allen Poe, so all is not lost. He knows that he can sell this book and his life can change. But, when someone steals his book and his one shot at financial freedom, and a new life, is lost A.J. is thrown into complete despair until one night when someone leaves an unexpected surprise in his store. From this point on, A.J.'s life will never be the same.
The structure of the book is very clever: each chapter begins with a quick review of sorts of a short story that is particularly meaningful for Fikry. He is clearly writing these reviews for someone (Maya) but it takes us a long time to learn who Maya is and why he is writing these reviews for her. The chapter that follows, then, connects Fikry's life to the plot of the short story or the particular idea from the short story that Fikry found relevant to his life. It's all very clever, really, and it reminds the readers how impactful books and stories can really be upon our lives.
As I read this brilliant story, I felt in a way that Fikry and I would be rather good friends if he were not a character in a book, because he and I share the same feelings about books. For instance, when Fikry realizes that the publisher's representative that he has worked with for years has passed away and that he knew very little of the man despite that, "he had spent hours with the man over the last half-dozen years. They had only ever discussed books but what, in this life, is more personal than books?" (pg18) What is more personal than books? I can think of very little, to be honest. I read a lot of books and I get asked by a lot of people what I would recommend to read and I often have a hard time passing along a title because what appeals to me may/may not appeal to others. What I find compelling could bore other people. What moved me to tears might make someone else laugh. Books are personal.
And Fikry, so nice of him, goes on to explain why in a later short story review: "...the things we respond to at twenty are not necessarily the same things we will respond to at forty and vice versa. This is true in books and also in life." (pg 41) This is so true! We read and fall in love with certain books sometimes because they are brilliant works but sometimes because our brain and our hearts are ready for the words and emotions evoked by the words. I can't tell you how many books I have read in high school and college that I think back on with such fondness, but am terrified to read again knowing that I am in a different place in my life and the book may not have the same impact upon me again. I have not read many a book because I am terrified of destroying the memory of greatness certain books have inside my head and heart.
I marked one other passage from this amazing book, and not because of it's relevance to books and reading. I marked it because it's excellent advice to give to my girls: "Someday, you may think of marrying. Pick someone who thinks you're the only person in the room." (pg 159) A.J. Fikry is a wise man. I wish his bookstore were real and that I could work there with him.
This book has touched my heart and my mind. I recommend it to anyone who loves books, who loves the feelings they evoke, and who knows that just because I loved it, it doesn't mean they will and yet they want to read it anyway.
Happy reading, friends!
-Dodie
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
#15 and #16 The Kitchen House and Glory Over Everything: Beyond the Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
My dear friend Pam suggested that I read The Kitchen House last year. As I always do when anyone recommends a book, I immediately pulled up my Amazon account and added the book to my cart (and then clicked "save for later") so that when I need a book, or when someone asks me what I want for Christmas or my birthday, my list is ready! Unfortunately, sort of, I never got to The Kitchen House because I have been so wrapped up in Outlander that I rarely read anything else these days. I say "unfortunately" because I had the amazing opportunity to attend this years' Junior League Book and Author Dinner and Kathleen Grissom was one of the author's who came to speak. At the time I wished I had read her book, but after listening to her speak, in a very cryptic, and teasing sort of way, I realized that I did not have to have read it before hand and found myself to be even more excited to read it than before. So, now that I am done with the 4th Outlander book, and my friend who reads them with me is still reading away at that one, I tackled both The Kitchen House and Glory Over Everything: Beyond the Kitchen House and loved them!
The Kitchen House is the simultaneous story of Lavinia (Abinia) and Belle. Lavinia is a white girl, around the age of seven when she comes to the Plantation as an indentured servant. Belle is a seemingly white girl who runs the kitchen house. What we soon learn is that Belle is actually half white and half black (the product of the relationship between the master of the plantation and a servant who's mere presence drives the mistress of the big house insane which is why she is now running the kitchen house) but she is fair and often passes for white. Their stories are told in alternating chapters and function in my mind to set up all sorts of paradoxes throughout the story: young versus old, child versus adult, white versus black, kitchen house versus big house, and I'm sure there are others that I missed.
As Lavinia and Belle tell their stories, we meet so many other characters, both from the big house and beyond, that are larger than life and remarkable (for better or for worse) in so many ways. At one point I remember thinking as I read that The Kitchen House would make a great mini-series on TV, like a 19th century The Thornbirds. There is so much drama and so many moments that make you gasp, I just could imagine it all coming to life on the screen. I also remember thinking as I was reading that no matter who you were in this time in history, if you weren't the white male in charge, and even sometimes if you were, your life was going to be just plain hard. Again I say, I am glad I was born in 1972.
When the book started coming to a close, I quickly ordered Glory Over Everything and was glad that I could literally close one and open the next. But what I quickly discovered, as I have often suspected, is that sequels are never as good as the originals.
Glory Over Everything is the story of James, Pan, and Sukey (also told in alternating chapters but sometimes James gets more than his fair share and will tell several chapters at a time). While The Kitchen House focused mainly on telling the story of life on the plantation, both in the kitchen house and in the big house, Glory Over Everything tells the stories of slaves on the run as they are helped to freedom (or death in some cases) by The Underground Railroad. Again, we have a contrast created by the characters: James is the wealthy white man, raised by white parents; Pan and Sukey are both runaway slaves. Of course, James is the grown-up Jamie that we met from the first book (and is of mixed race which causes all sorts of issues in this new story). It is really fascinating, and heart-warming on most cases, to see how he turns out, what he has made of his life, and ultimately what sort of man be becomes.
What I found to be the biggest difference between these two stories is the cast of characters. While I found The Kitchen House to be mini-series material, the action and drama in Glory over Everything wasn't quite as large. Now, please do not misunderstand. Glory Over Everything is still an amazing story and one that needed to be told. We needed to know what happened to Jamie (although I would've liked knowing what happened to everyone from The Kitchen House) and telling the story of The Underground Railroad is a natural progression from the plantation story that came first. I just felt that The Kitchen House was more powerful and told a more powerful story.
If you get a chance to read anything about Kathleen Grissom before reading these books, you should try to find her telling the story of how Lavinia and Belle came to be. She shared this story at the Book and Author event and it really is interesting how these characters spoke to Grissom and made their stories known. Or better yet, perhaps you might run into her one day (she lives close in Southern/Southside, VA), and she could tell you the story herself. I'm sure she would if you just ask! It's a good story!
I hope she plans to write more, this lady from Canada with a knack for telling Virginia History.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
The Kitchen House is the simultaneous story of Lavinia (Abinia) and Belle. Lavinia is a white girl, around the age of seven when she comes to the Plantation as an indentured servant. Belle is a seemingly white girl who runs the kitchen house. What we soon learn is that Belle is actually half white and half black (the product of the relationship between the master of the plantation and a servant who's mere presence drives the mistress of the big house insane which is why she is now running the kitchen house) but she is fair and often passes for white. Their stories are told in alternating chapters and function in my mind to set up all sorts of paradoxes throughout the story: young versus old, child versus adult, white versus black, kitchen house versus big house, and I'm sure there are others that I missed.
As Lavinia and Belle tell their stories, we meet so many other characters, both from the big house and beyond, that are larger than life and remarkable (for better or for worse) in so many ways. At one point I remember thinking as I read that The Kitchen House would make a great mini-series on TV, like a 19th century The Thornbirds. There is so much drama and so many moments that make you gasp, I just could imagine it all coming to life on the screen. I also remember thinking as I was reading that no matter who you were in this time in history, if you weren't the white male in charge, and even sometimes if you were, your life was going to be just plain hard. Again I say, I am glad I was born in 1972.
When the book started coming to a close, I quickly ordered Glory Over Everything and was glad that I could literally close one and open the next. But what I quickly discovered, as I have often suspected, is that sequels are never as good as the originals.
Glory Over Everything is the story of James, Pan, and Sukey (also told in alternating chapters but sometimes James gets more than his fair share and will tell several chapters at a time). While The Kitchen House focused mainly on telling the story of life on the plantation, both in the kitchen house and in the big house, Glory Over Everything tells the stories of slaves on the run as they are helped to freedom (or death in some cases) by The Underground Railroad. Again, we have a contrast created by the characters: James is the wealthy white man, raised by white parents; Pan and Sukey are both runaway slaves. Of course, James is the grown-up Jamie that we met from the first book (and is of mixed race which causes all sorts of issues in this new story). It is really fascinating, and heart-warming on most cases, to see how he turns out, what he has made of his life, and ultimately what sort of man be becomes.
What I found to be the biggest difference between these two stories is the cast of characters. While I found The Kitchen House to be mini-series material, the action and drama in Glory over Everything wasn't quite as large. Now, please do not misunderstand. Glory Over Everything is still an amazing story and one that needed to be told. We needed to know what happened to Jamie (although I would've liked knowing what happened to everyone from The Kitchen House) and telling the story of The Underground Railroad is a natural progression from the plantation story that came first. I just felt that The Kitchen House was more powerful and told a more powerful story.
If you get a chance to read anything about Kathleen Grissom before reading these books, you should try to find her telling the story of how Lavinia and Belle came to be. She shared this story at the Book and Author event and it really is interesting how these characters spoke to Grissom and made their stories known. Or better yet, perhaps you might run into her one day (she lives close in Southern/Southside, VA), and she could tell you the story herself. I'm sure she would if you just ask! It's a good story!
I hope she plans to write more, this lady from Canada with a knack for telling Virginia History.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
#14: Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon
Well, I did it! I've read 4 of the 8 Outlander books! And my house is clean, my family is fed, and no one has been running around naked. In other words, don't be afraid of these books taking over your life. Balance is possible! I promise!
Drums of Autumn picks up where Voyager (a book whose details I can barely recall at this point...time to re-read the summary in the Outlandish Companion...yes I bought it. It's a great reference for this epic story) leaves off. And, if I may be so bold, with Outlander (the first book in the series) being first, I think Drums of Autumn may be my second favorite book in the series. I love the story line, the time travel, the new characters, and the Colonial American history that is present in the book. It was wonderful!
I must admit, however, that reading DOA while watching Season 2 of Outlander on STARZ was a bit much for me. It's hard to keep each individual story straight, much less to watch one part of the story while reading the story two books ahead. I found that I was always going back to the text of DOA to remind myself of the storyline, and even then I have been confused on certain parts of the plot (which I feel certain is because I know things from reading books 3 and 4). Oh well. I am sure that I am not the only Outlander fan overwhelmed by immense amounts of details present in this story.
I am taking a break between books 4 and 5 to catch up on other reading. It's nice to know that Jamie and Claire will be waiting for me when I am ready to resume reading. I can't believe there are still 4 more books, and a 9th is being written now. What else could happen to this family?
I can't wait to find out!
Happy reading everyone!
:)Dodie
Drums of Autumn picks up where Voyager (a book whose details I can barely recall at this point...time to re-read the summary in the Outlandish Companion...yes I bought it. It's a great reference for this epic story) leaves off. And, if I may be so bold, with Outlander (the first book in the series) being first, I think Drums of Autumn may be my second favorite book in the series. I love the story line, the time travel, the new characters, and the Colonial American history that is present in the book. It was wonderful!
I must admit, however, that reading DOA while watching Season 2 of Outlander on STARZ was a bit much for me. It's hard to keep each individual story straight, much less to watch one part of the story while reading the story two books ahead. I found that I was always going back to the text of DOA to remind myself of the storyline, and even then I have been confused on certain parts of the plot (which I feel certain is because I know things from reading books 3 and 4). Oh well. I am sure that I am not the only Outlander fan overwhelmed by immense amounts of details present in this story.
I am taking a break between books 4 and 5 to catch up on other reading. It's nice to know that Jamie and Claire will be waiting for me when I am ready to resume reading. I can't believe there are still 4 more books, and a 9th is being written now. What else could happen to this family?
I can't wait to find out!
Happy reading everyone!
:)Dodie
#13: The Secret Language of Sisters by Luanne Rice
I bought The Secret Language of Sisters at my school's book fair in an attempt to keep up with new children's literature. Although, I suspect that this particular book falls into the Young Adult category and, as a result, will soon be passed on to my girls for summer reading.
This book made an impact upon me for a few reasons. First, the story centers around two sisters who happen to be the exact same ages as my girls. Second, there's a car accident resulting from texting while driving (my greatest fear). Third, I had never heard of "locked-in syndrome" and wanted to know more.
Ruth Ann (Roo) and Mathilda (Tilly) are sisters and best friends. They really do know each other better than anyone else in the world and are connected in a way that only sisters can be. When Roo is involved in a tragic car accident, Tilly's world is shattered. With time and the secret language she and Roo share, she is able to move forward.
The novel is told in alternating chapters between Roo and Tilly-- a style I particularly enjoy as it gives readers a depth of information we would not get any other way. Roo's chapters after the accident are hard to read, as she is "locked-in" with a fully functioning brain, thoughts, and feelings; she simply is paralyzed with no means to communicate (how amazingly terrifying this must be). I can honestly say that reading her chapters made me uneasy. You can feel her fright and panic over her situation. These chapters are very well written. Very.
While this book does not have a traditional happy ending, I think it's realistic in the sense that many tragic accidents can't possibly have a happy ending. However, the people involved can learn to be happy again. And Roo and Tilly are able to do just that by the end of the book.
This is a great read. It did not read like a child's (teenager's) book yet it was still a quick read. I needed to know what happened to these girls and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. If you have daughters, or even teenagers who text (haha--what teenager doesn't text?), this book should be on your reading list. It serves as a poignant warning to all.
Happy reading everyone!
:)Dodie
This book made an impact upon me for a few reasons. First, the story centers around two sisters who happen to be the exact same ages as my girls. Second, there's a car accident resulting from texting while driving (my greatest fear). Third, I had never heard of "locked-in syndrome" and wanted to know more.
Ruth Ann (Roo) and Mathilda (Tilly) are sisters and best friends. They really do know each other better than anyone else in the world and are connected in a way that only sisters can be. When Roo is involved in a tragic car accident, Tilly's world is shattered. With time and the secret language she and Roo share, she is able to move forward.
The novel is told in alternating chapters between Roo and Tilly-- a style I particularly enjoy as it gives readers a depth of information we would not get any other way. Roo's chapters after the accident are hard to read, as she is "locked-in" with a fully functioning brain, thoughts, and feelings; she simply is paralyzed with no means to communicate (how amazingly terrifying this must be). I can honestly say that reading her chapters made me uneasy. You can feel her fright and panic over her situation. These chapters are very well written. Very.
While this book does not have a traditional happy ending, I think it's realistic in the sense that many tragic accidents can't possibly have a happy ending. However, the people involved can learn to be happy again. And Roo and Tilly are able to do just that by the end of the book.
This is a great read. It did not read like a child's (teenager's) book yet it was still a quick read. I needed to know what happened to these girls and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. If you have daughters, or even teenagers who text (haha--what teenager doesn't text?), this book should be on your reading list. It serves as a poignant warning to all.
Happy reading everyone!
:)Dodie
Friday, April 22, 2016
#12: The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
I found this book at my school's book fair this week and bought it, wondering what a book told by a gorilla in the first person would be like. Well...much like Charlotte's Web, an all-time favorite of mine where talking animals are the main characters, The One and Only Ivan was amazing!
Ivan is a silverback gorilla who is the main attraction at The Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. He's not the only animal there--there is a talking parrot, Stella the elephant, and Bob, a dog who is a stray but who loves Ivan and sleeps with him at night while making himself scarce during the day. In a desperate attempt to bring more people to the mall, a baby elephant named Ruby appears and Stella, an older female, is so excited to have a baby to care for. But when Stella dies and Ruby is left alone, Ivan is faced with a problem: how does he make his promise to Stella for Ruby to have a better life a reality? Ivan is no ordinary silverback and he quickly hatches a plan, a plan that you will have to read the book in order to find out. I will ruin nothing here because it's quite spectacular.
There are a few humans in this novel: Mack, who runs the mall, George, who cleans the mall, Julia, George's daughter, and Maya, who we meet towards the end of the book. But they are all secondary characters to the animals.
This book is truly a gift and if you've ever read Charlotte's Web and loved it, The One and Only Ivan should be on your list of must-reads. This book makes me wish I was still teaching full-time so I could add it to my read-aloud rotation.
Happy reading, everyone!
:)Dodie
Ivan is a silverback gorilla who is the main attraction at The Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. He's not the only animal there--there is a talking parrot, Stella the elephant, and Bob, a dog who is a stray but who loves Ivan and sleeps with him at night while making himself scarce during the day. In a desperate attempt to bring more people to the mall, a baby elephant named Ruby appears and Stella, an older female, is so excited to have a baby to care for. But when Stella dies and Ruby is left alone, Ivan is faced with a problem: how does he make his promise to Stella for Ruby to have a better life a reality? Ivan is no ordinary silverback and he quickly hatches a plan, a plan that you will have to read the book in order to find out. I will ruin nothing here because it's quite spectacular.
There are a few humans in this novel: Mack, who runs the mall, George, who cleans the mall, Julia, George's daughter, and Maya, who we meet towards the end of the book. But they are all secondary characters to the animals.
This book is truly a gift and if you've ever read Charlotte's Web and loved it, The One and Only Ivan should be on your list of must-reads. This book makes me wish I was still teaching full-time so I could add it to my read-aloud rotation.
Happy reading, everyone!
:)Dodie
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
#11: A Girl's Guide to Moving on by Debbie Macomber
Despite what the title implies, this is not a self-help book. It is a cleverly written novel by one of my favorite authors that describes the healing process of two women, Nichole and Leanne, after their divorces. What makes this duo particularly unique is that Leanne is Nichole's mother in law. The two became such great friends during Nichole's marriage to Jake, Leanne's son, that they have now turned to each other for unconditional support as they work to build their lives once again.
Anyone who has ever read Macomber's books knows that they are filled with great, believable characters--characters you wished you knew in real life. A Girl's Guide is no different. We meet Rocco and Nikolai and Shawntelle, and we are reacquainted with Nichole's sister and family from a previous novel. I love how Macomber brings back beloved characters for a quick glimpse into their lives as she writes new stories. It's like getting all the benefits of a sequel without the story actually being a sequel.
I will admit that I cried at the end of this book. Well...for the last 50 pages or so. This story had a plot twist that I didn't see coming and one that tugged at my heart strings. Leanne's relationship with her ex-husband is a complicated one, as you'd expect when a divorce occurs after 35 years of a marriage, but Macomber creates a situation for them that makes their relationship even more complicated. One that left me crying and praying for a love like theirs, complications and all.
I used to think that one day, after reading all that Debbie Macomber has written, that I would get bored with her stories or her characters. Turns out, as I read each one of her latest novels, I am reminded of why I fell in love with her stories 10 years ago and still run to the bookstore today when a new one is released. It will be a sad day for me, indeed, when she stops writing books. I suppose I will just have to start re-reading them all, one by one.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
Anyone who has ever read Macomber's books knows that they are filled with great, believable characters--characters you wished you knew in real life. A Girl's Guide is no different. We meet Rocco and Nikolai and Shawntelle, and we are reacquainted with Nichole's sister and family from a previous novel. I love how Macomber brings back beloved characters for a quick glimpse into their lives as she writes new stories. It's like getting all the benefits of a sequel without the story actually being a sequel.
I will admit that I cried at the end of this book. Well...for the last 50 pages or so. This story had a plot twist that I didn't see coming and one that tugged at my heart strings. Leanne's relationship with her ex-husband is a complicated one, as you'd expect when a divorce occurs after 35 years of a marriage, but Macomber creates a situation for them that makes their relationship even more complicated. One that left me crying and praying for a love like theirs, complications and all.
I used to think that one day, after reading all that Debbie Macomber has written, that I would get bored with her stories or her characters. Turns out, as I read each one of her latest novels, I am reminded of why I fell in love with her stories 10 years ago and still run to the bookstore today when a new one is released. It will be a sad day for me, indeed, when she stops writing books. I suppose I will just have to start re-reading them all, one by one.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
Sunday, February 28, 2016
#10: The Choice by Nicholas Sparks
After re-reading this book because I could not recall reading it, I still don't remember reading it but I can't imagine how I could forget reading this book; it was so moving and touching. It has been a long time since I have sobbed when reading a Nicholas Sparks book, but this one had me sobbing. I will NOT go to the movie theatre to see this movie, either, because if I was sobbing at home, I'll be sobbing in the movie theatre and quite honestly I'd rather cry at home in front of people who love me versus people who will just think that I am crazy.
The Choice details the love story of Travis and Gabby from their first meeting to the day when Travis is faced with a choice that no none should ever have to make. I was surprised by his choice at first, and am completely positive my husband would choose in the opposite direction, but after reading the end, I'm not so surprised anymore. You'll have to read the book to discover his choice and why he was faced with the decision in the first place, but when you love like Travis, it's no wonder that he made the choice he made. Travis and Gabby make me believe in true love. Real true love.
Read this one. But with tissues.
-Dodie
The Choice details the love story of Travis and Gabby from their first meeting to the day when Travis is faced with a choice that no none should ever have to make. I was surprised by his choice at first, and am completely positive my husband would choose in the opposite direction, but after reading the end, I'm not so surprised anymore. You'll have to read the book to discover his choice and why he was faced with the decision in the first place, but when you love like Travis, it's no wonder that he made the choice he made. Travis and Gabby make me believe in true love. Real true love.
Read this one. But with tissues.
-Dodie
Monday, February 15, 2016
#9: Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Every West End parent should receive this book when they register their babies for Kindergarten. And in some extreme cases, pre-school. I am fairly certain there are other regions of the US and even the world where the parents of small children could benefit from reading this book, too. And, sadly, it's not a book about small children. It's a book about teenagers, but it serves as a warning for parents and could, if parents read this soon enough, save lives of teenagers and young adults. Teenagers and Young Adults who have not been able to live their own lives, who are not able to pursue their own passions, but are instead forced to live out the unrealized dreams of their parents.
Everything I Never Told You is the story of Lydia Lee and her family. Lydia is a sophomore who goes missing on page one. The rest of the story functions to explain her disappearance. The book, in effect, becomes what she never told anyone. Of course, it also becomes what her entire family never told anyone, as they all have lethal secrets.
Themes abound in this small, well-written, fully developed book: Asian vs. American, Man vs. Woman, Girl vs. Boy, Smart vs. Stupid, Mom vs. Daughter, Dad vs. Son, Gay vs. Straight, Dead vs. Alive.
This book terrified me from page one. And I spent the rest of the book second guessing my role as parent. Does Abigail real want to teach or has this been forced upon her because everyone says she's so good with children? Does Emily really want to take Latin or does she feel compelled because if she does pre-law in college (3 years away), she will have to? What presents have I given them over the years that are things I wanted myself and not really things they wanted at all? And, the biggest question of all--is what I see/hear from my girls the truth? Or the truth they want me to see?
See. This book is scary.
But, if you are a parent, I think this is a must-read. It will make you think about your kids and how you parent them, for sure.
In the end, when we learn what really happens to Lydia, my heart ached for her and for her family. Every disaster is preventable. You just have to be alert and aware.
And for God's sake, please teach your children how to swim. Please.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Everything I Never Told You is the story of Lydia Lee and her family. Lydia is a sophomore who goes missing on page one. The rest of the story functions to explain her disappearance. The book, in effect, becomes what she never told anyone. Of course, it also becomes what her entire family never told anyone, as they all have lethal secrets.
Themes abound in this small, well-written, fully developed book: Asian vs. American, Man vs. Woman, Girl vs. Boy, Smart vs. Stupid, Mom vs. Daughter, Dad vs. Son, Gay vs. Straight, Dead vs. Alive.
This book terrified me from page one. And I spent the rest of the book second guessing my role as parent. Does Abigail real want to teach or has this been forced upon her because everyone says she's so good with children? Does Emily really want to take Latin or does she feel compelled because if she does pre-law in college (3 years away), she will have to? What presents have I given them over the years that are things I wanted myself and not really things they wanted at all? And, the biggest question of all--is what I see/hear from my girls the truth? Or the truth they want me to see?
See. This book is scary.
But, if you are a parent, I think this is a must-read. It will make you think about your kids and how you parent them, for sure.
In the end, when we learn what really happens to Lydia, my heart ached for her and for her family. Every disaster is preventable. You just have to be alert and aware.
And for God's sake, please teach your children how to swim. Please.
Happy reading, everyone!
-Dodie
Friday, February 12, 2016
#8: Orphan by Kim van Alkemade
Orphan #8 is a novel based on real events from the author's extended family. While at times this book is just flat out frightening (because who ever thought that doctors would do experiments on orphaned children) it is a uniquely moving story.
Rachel Rabinowitz is four years old when she and her brother become orphans and move to live in a Jewish orphanage in NYC. During her time in the Hebrew Infant Home, Dr. Mildred Solomon uses Rachel, and other children, for a series of medical experiments. The effects of these experiments, mostly done with x-rays, change Rachel's life forever. Through alternating chapters, past then present, we learn Rachel's story and how she has now come to be the hospice nurse for Dr. Solomon. The tables have turned and Rachel has to decide if she will forgive Dr. Solomon, or if she will do some experimenting of her own.
I could not put this book down. It was hard to read at times, due to the themes explored in the text, but, what I left this book feeling was a sense of hope regarding the ultimate nature of man/woman. If ever there was a girl who could be mad and angry and who would want to give up on life, it was Rachel. Yet she refuses to do this. She is a strong woman and her story is a worth-while read.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
Rachel Rabinowitz is four years old when she and her brother become orphans and move to live in a Jewish orphanage in NYC. During her time in the Hebrew Infant Home, Dr. Mildred Solomon uses Rachel, and other children, for a series of medical experiments. The effects of these experiments, mostly done with x-rays, change Rachel's life forever. Through alternating chapters, past then present, we learn Rachel's story and how she has now come to be the hospice nurse for Dr. Solomon. The tables have turned and Rachel has to decide if she will forgive Dr. Solomon, or if she will do some experimenting of her own.
I could not put this book down. It was hard to read at times, due to the themes explored in the text, but, what I left this book feeling was a sense of hope regarding the ultimate nature of man/woman. If ever there was a girl who could be mad and angry and who would want to give up on life, it was Rachel. Yet she refuses to do this. She is a strong woman and her story is a worth-while read.
Happy reading, everyone!
:) Dodie
Thursday, February 4, 2016
#7: The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty
The Last Anniversary is a wonderfully original, feel-good novel that made me smile big smiles at the end, and that I couldn't put down once I started. Liane Moriarty never fails to please.
And just so you know, this novel is not about the last anniversary of a marriage, or a relationship, but of a murder-mystery. See--totally original. And, yes, still a feel-good kind of book. You're going to have to read it to understand, but it will be worth it, I promise.
Enjoy!
:)Dodie
And just so you know, this novel is not about the last anniversary of a marriage, or a relationship, but of a murder-mystery. See--totally original. And, yes, still a feel-good kind of book. You're going to have to read it to understand, but it will be worth it, I promise.
Enjoy!
:)Dodie
Monday, February 1, 2016
#6: The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
I absolutely could not read The Thorn Birds fast enough, yet at the same time I also did not want the story to finish. I have heard of this book since the 80's when it was a mini-series, and I have also heard my husband wasn't allowed to even be in the room when it was on because it was so scandalous, but never read it. I then heard it mentioned on a TV show recently so I took it as a sign that I needed to read it so I ordered it. I am reading random books in between Outlander volumes so I picked this one and couldn't put it down. It is quite brilliant and I totally understand why it was turned into a mini-series, which I have purchased and plan to start watching today.
The story is long and spans roughly 75-100 years (it is just shy of 700 pages long) as it follows the life of the Cleary family who live first in New Zealand and then move to Australia. The details are rich and, as a result, you get to know these characters intimately. The book is divided into sections, named for the main characters, but within the sections you get to meet the entire Clearly clan along with friends and neighbors. Their saga is dramatic, scandalous, and is the perfect story to center a college level course around. The themes and parallels amongst family members from one generation to the next abound. This is the sort of book that sticks with you and that you will want to talk about with other people. It is a perfect book club book. Really.
I understand the scandal now. If you are bothered by the notion that a Catholic priest might slip and might not be as pure as he should be, you should not read this book. It will be too much for you. But, if you want to read a story that explores money, feminism, religion, and love, this is the book for you. It's truly amazing. One friend of mine said it was the first "grown up romance " novel she read and that it changed her life. I suspect that had I read this 20 years ago, I could say the same. I also suspect that had I read it 20 years ago, I might not be where I am now as it certainly makes one think about gender roles and expectations of and for women. Where was this book in my Feminism in Literature Class??
Read this. You won't be disappointed. I promise.
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
The story is long and spans roughly 75-100 years (it is just shy of 700 pages long) as it follows the life of the Cleary family who live first in New Zealand and then move to Australia. The details are rich and, as a result, you get to know these characters intimately. The book is divided into sections, named for the main characters, but within the sections you get to meet the entire Clearly clan along with friends and neighbors. Their saga is dramatic, scandalous, and is the perfect story to center a college level course around. The themes and parallels amongst family members from one generation to the next abound. This is the sort of book that sticks with you and that you will want to talk about with other people. It is a perfect book club book. Really.
I understand the scandal now. If you are bothered by the notion that a Catholic priest might slip and might not be as pure as he should be, you should not read this book. It will be too much for you. But, if you want to read a story that explores money, feminism, religion, and love, this is the book for you. It's truly amazing. One friend of mine said it was the first "grown up romance " novel she read and that it changed her life. I suspect that had I read this 20 years ago, I could say the same. I also suspect that had I read it 20 years ago, I might not be where I am now as it certainly makes one think about gender roles and expectations of and for women. Where was this book in my Feminism in Literature Class??
Read this. You won't be disappointed. I promise.
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
#5: Finding Fraser by KC Dyer
Finding Fraser by KC Dyer is a must read for any self-respecting Outlander fan. If you've never heard of Outlander, read the books, or watched the series, skip it. None of it will make sense to you and you'll find it not only confusing but silly. If you have read or watched, reading this is a must. Because if you have read Outlander, it is certain that you, like Emma, have wondered if there's really a Jamie Fraser out there somewhere and have thought long and hard about trying to find a Fraser of your very own.
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
#4: Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes
If you are interested in reading an original take on the events of WW2, read Ship of Brides. The book details the trip from Australia to England that 654 war brides took aboard the HMS Victoria, a naval aircraft carrier, to be reunited with their husbands. I always like to read books about WW2 that cover the personal stories of the ordinary people impacted by this great war. This novel, based loosely on real events, fits that bill perfectly.
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
Happy reading everyone!
:) Dodie
Friday, January 15, 2016
#3: Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
If you liked Gone Girl, read this other Flynn novel that was written before Gone Girl. It's not quite Gone Girl caliber, but it does make you wonder about what goes on in Gillian Flynn's mind. It's the story of Libby Day, a now 30 year old woman who lived through a mass killing of her family. Her brother Ben went to jail for the murders, but now 22 years later, Libby starts asking questions that may prove that Ben was not, in fact, the killer. It's intense for sure, but not quite as over the top as Gone Girl.
I laughed when I was reading her Thank You section at the end of the book--she thanked her husband for knowing what goes through her mind AND still wanting to sleep next to her each night. Hilarious!
A good read. Now I can watch the movie!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
I laughed when I was reading her Thank You section at the end of the book--she thanked her husband for knowing what goes through her mind AND still wanting to sleep next to her each night. Hilarious!
A good read. Now I can watch the movie!
Happy reading!
-Dodie
#1: Dragonfly in Amber and #2: Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
I said that I wasn't going to blog about books in 2015 unless they moved me in some way, or I felt the need to write about a particular book. Well, I do intend to keep that promise, mostly to myself because I began to dread writing about each and every book I read. But, I do plan to list the books I read in this blog so that I can continue to have a record of what I read.
Dragonfly in Amber and Voyager are the second and third books in the Outlander series, to which I have become addicted. I have watched the entire first season of Outlander twice, I now own the CD's for season one and listen to the beautiful music in my car, and Rob gave me a page-a-day calendar that sits on my bedside table. I have not yet begun book 4, although I did buy it and it's just waiting for me, because my good friend Scottie has not yet finished Voyager and I don't like to read when I can't talk to her about what I am reading, so I am waiting until she starts reading book 4 to begin it myself.
Outlander is the greatest epic love story I have ever read. It makes you think and feel and it has caused my relationship with Google to expand, as I look up places and historical events that I never dreamed of learning about. I can't not wait to begin book 4 and I really can't wait for the second season of Outlander to start on Starz in April. Rob even watched the first season with me, so this isn't just a girlie story. Now, I doubt he'd read the books (they are insanely long--Voyager is 870 pages--dense, long pages), but he will watch it with me when it comes back to TV.
This is a great series to pick up if you aren't afraid of long books and want to read an amazing story.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
Dragonfly in Amber and Voyager are the second and third books in the Outlander series, to which I have become addicted. I have watched the entire first season of Outlander twice, I now own the CD's for season one and listen to the beautiful music in my car, and Rob gave me a page-a-day calendar that sits on my bedside table. I have not yet begun book 4, although I did buy it and it's just waiting for me, because my good friend Scottie has not yet finished Voyager and I don't like to read when I can't talk to her about what I am reading, so I am waiting until she starts reading book 4 to begin it myself.
Outlander is the greatest epic love story I have ever read. It makes you think and feel and it has caused my relationship with Google to expand, as I look up places and historical events that I never dreamed of learning about. I can't not wait to begin book 4 and I really can't wait for the second season of Outlander to start on Starz in April. Rob even watched the first season with me, so this isn't just a girlie story. Now, I doubt he'd read the books (they are insanely long--Voyager is 870 pages--dense, long pages), but he will watch it with me when it comes back to TV.
This is a great series to pick up if you aren't afraid of long books and want to read an amazing story.
Happy reading!
-Dodie
2015 Top Ten List
This year, unlike other years, I am actually going to rank my Top 10 Favorite Books. I had not planned on doing this, but since I just read one of my original posts and am now in tears, I figured that because one book moved me so much and allowed for such intense personal growth and reflection, it didn't deserve to just be stuck ion the middle of a random list. It rocketed its way to the top of the list.
So, if you can't find time to read 52 books this year (and I know for a fact that with my new addiction to the Outlander series I won't come close to reading 52 books this year), take a look at this list of my Top 10 Favorites and maybe you can find something from this list to read.
Enjoy!
10. Still Alice by Lisa Genova
9. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
8. On the Island (series) by Tracey Garvis Graves
7. Five Brides by Eva Marie Everson
6. Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger
5. Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
4. Who Do You Love by Jennifer Weiner
3. Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult
2. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
and my favorite book of the year is....
1. The Comfort of Lies by Randy Susan Meyers
So, if you can't find time to read 52 books this year (and I know for a fact that with my new addiction to the Outlander series I won't come close to reading 52 books this year), take a look at this list of my Top 10 Favorites and maybe you can find something from this list to read.
Enjoy!
10. Still Alice by Lisa Genova
9. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
8. On the Island (series) by Tracey Garvis Graves
7. Five Brides by Eva Marie Everson
6. Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger
5. Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
4. Who Do You Love by Jennifer Weiner
3. Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult
2. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
and my favorite book of the year is....
1. The Comfort of Lies by Randy Susan Meyers
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