Little Bee: Chris Cleave
I'd heard of it before, but nothing intrigued me more about this book than the synopsis that was posted on Amazon . . .
"We don't want to tell you too much about this book. It is a truly special story and we don't want to spoil it. Nevertheless, you need to know something, so we will just say this: It is extremely funny, but the African beach scene is horrific. The story starts there, but the book doesn't. And it's what happens afterward that is most important. Once you have read it, you'll want to tell everyone about it. When you do, please don't tell them what happens either. The magic is in how it unfolds."
That being said, it's very difficult to recommend it to someone without going into any details. I will attempt said difficulty here.
Little Bee is a great book. One of the smartest things I did, was go into this book knowing absolutely nothing. I loved it from start to finish, and there were so many parts of the story that paralleled my life. I was lucky enough to have my own copy, because I dog-eared and highlighted a lot of quotes that were so poetic and beautiful. Not necessarily beautiful in the traditional sense of Shakespeare, but beautiful in the raw and human quality that they possess. I don't think I need to tell you that I recommend this book, but if you're a little daft, a little drunk or even both, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!! A+ (April 27, 2012)
"We don't want to tell you too much about this book. It is a truly special story and we don't want to spoil it. Nevertheless, you need to know something, so we will just say this: It is extremely funny, but the African beach scene is horrific. The story starts there, but the book doesn't. And it's what happens afterward that is most important. Once you have read it, you'll want to tell everyone about it. When you do, please don't tell them what happens either. The magic is in how it unfolds."
That being said, it's very difficult to recommend it to someone without going into any details. I will attempt said difficulty here.
Little Bee is a great book. One of the smartest things I did, was go into this book knowing absolutely nothing. I loved it from start to finish, and there were so many parts of the story that paralleled my life. I was lucky enough to have my own copy, because I dog-eared and highlighted a lot of quotes that were so poetic and beautiful. Not necessarily beautiful in the traditional sense of Shakespeare, but beautiful in the raw and human quality that they possess. I don't think I need to tell you that I recommend this book, but if you're a little daft, a little drunk or even both, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!! A+ (April 27, 2012)
Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers: Mary Roach
I've never contemplated my mortality more than I did during this book. Talking about corpses and whether you want your "remains" cremated, donated to science, plasticized, composted or even eaten will definitely make you pause to think.
Apparently when this book came out in 2002, it was to some resistance. I don't know why talking in detail about the one person who doesn't and can't care, brings up such strong emotions. I'm not saying that I'm immune to those feelings, but let's get some perspective.
I am a sucker for Non-Fiction, so this book was right up my alley. I found all the information and history absolutely fascinating! I had never considered that actual corpses were used as crash test dummies, I always pictured those horribly obnoxious crash test commerial dummies from the 80's. The fact that a woman in Sweden is working toward a future where loved ones are frozen and composted into a living plant, is a testament to how ignorant I was about anything post-mortem.
For anyone who has ever considered death, not just those angsty, emo teenagers, this book is the corpse's cacophony! A- (February 24, 2012)
Apparently when this book came out in 2002, it was to some resistance. I don't know why talking in detail about the one person who doesn't and can't care, brings up such strong emotions. I'm not saying that I'm immune to those feelings, but let's get some perspective.
I am a sucker for Non-Fiction, so this book was right up my alley. I found all the information and history absolutely fascinating! I had never considered that actual corpses were used as crash test dummies, I always pictured those horribly obnoxious crash test commerial dummies from the 80's. The fact that a woman in Sweden is working toward a future where loved ones are frozen and composted into a living plant, is a testament to how ignorant I was about anything post-mortem.
For anyone who has ever considered death, not just those angsty, emo teenagers, this book is the corpse's cacophony! A- (February 24, 2012)
The Unit: Ninni Holmqvist
Imagine a world where women over the age of 50 and men over the age of 60 are sent to "The Unit", an isolated community, until their organs are ready to be "donated."
This is the backdrop for Ninni Holmqvist's book. Dorrit, is a woman who has just entered The Unit at the ripe old age of 50. The Unit isn't your usual retirement home. Housed within a glass dome, where it's always Spring or Summer, there is an entire community. Movie theatres, library, restaurants and the best medical care you can buy.
The only catch is . . . if you aren't being tested on by a pharmaceutical company or participating in a stamina study, you are expected to "donate" organs every few months. These organs go to those outside the Unit, who are younger, and have important careers or children.
Other than the occassional loss of a part of your small intestine, or a kidney, life goes on as normal. People make friendships, fall in love, even host an art show or write a book. This book brought up so many questions about what a person deserves at the end of their life and what should be sacrificed for the greater good. I am still figuring out how I feel about the idea of the Unit, if it were to become an actual place. I absolutely loved this book and the idea was so unique and original. Definitely a must, for those looking for a page-thinker. A- (January 5, 2011)
This is the backdrop for Ninni Holmqvist's book. Dorrit, is a woman who has just entered The Unit at the ripe old age of 50. The Unit isn't your usual retirement home. Housed within a glass dome, where it's always Spring or Summer, there is an entire community. Movie theatres, library, restaurants and the best medical care you can buy.
The only catch is . . . if you aren't being tested on by a pharmaceutical company or participating in a stamina study, you are expected to "donate" organs every few months. These organs go to those outside the Unit, who are younger, and have important careers or children.
Other than the occassional loss of a part of your small intestine, or a kidney, life goes on as normal. People make friendships, fall in love, even host an art show or write a book. This book brought up so many questions about what a person deserves at the end of their life and what should be sacrificed for the greater good. I am still figuring out how I feel about the idea of the Unit, if it were to become an actual place. I absolutely loved this book and the idea was so unique and original. Definitely a must, for those looking for a page-thinker. A- (January 5, 2011)
Shelter: Harlan Coben
This was one of the books that I got through Librarything.com's early readers program. Each month a list of new books comes out, you can volunteer to receive a copy of the books that you find interesting. Your name is placed in a drawing, and you can receive these books in the mail for absolutely free and before they're even available in stores. They do this so that they can get feedback and reviews for the book's release.
I've never read Harlan Coben before, so this was my first introduction to the author and I'm so glad that I was able to find him.
Mickey Bolitar is a high school kid whose mother is a drug addict and whose Dad was recently killed in a car accident. However, this isn't your typical sob story, or tale of teenage wasteland mishaps. Mickey's uncle has taken him in while his mother is in rehab. He meets another newbie and they instantly make a connection only for her to disappear a week later with no trace.
While the scenario seems overplayed and overwritten, the outcome and writing of this book is not what you will expect. I read this in a little over 24 hours, I couldn't put it down and the style and dialogue had me actually chuckling out loud. If you're looking for a great read that will have you flipping pages and smiling and cringing then Shelter is for you. I'm looking forward to Harlan's next Mickey Bolitar novel. A (October 1, 2011)
I've never read Harlan Coben before, so this was my first introduction to the author and I'm so glad that I was able to find him.
Mickey Bolitar is a high school kid whose mother is a drug addict and whose Dad was recently killed in a car accident. However, this isn't your typical sob story, or tale of teenage wasteland mishaps. Mickey's uncle has taken him in while his mother is in rehab. He meets another newbie and they instantly make a connection only for her to disappear a week later with no trace.
While the scenario seems overplayed and overwritten, the outcome and writing of this book is not what you will expect. I read this in a little over 24 hours, I couldn't put it down and the style and dialogue had me actually chuckling out loud. If you're looking for a great read that will have you flipping pages and smiling and cringing then Shelter is for you. I'm looking forward to Harlan's next Mickey Bolitar novel. A (October 1, 2011)
Turn of Mind: Alice LaPlante
I read about Turn of Mind on The Book Lady's Blog, which is a wonderful blog, and was immediately intrigued. I became even more interested when I found that she would be speaking and reading at The King's English Bookshop in Sugarhouse on August 24.
My last journey to the King's English brought me to meet Christopher McDougall the author of "Born to Run." He was so incredibly nice and down to earth and I immediately wanted to hear and meet more authors.
Turn of Mind is about Jennifer White, an orthopedic surgeon in her late 60's who has had to retire due to Alzheimer's. When her best friend and arch nemesis, turns up dead with 4 fingers surgerically removed, the mystery ensues.
While this book was definitely thought provoking, and a little depressing at times, I didn't finish reading it with a sense of foreboding or overwhelming sadness. I loved that it took me right into Jennifer's mind, and I realized that if I was confused at what was going on, then so was Jennifer. This book made me want to take extreme measures (like dance with a black cat under a full moon, or sacrifice a hampster) to make sure that I nor anyone I love ever contract Alzheimer's. What an awful disease, but what an amazing book to come from such decayed mental ashes. B+ (August 16, 2011)
My last journey to the King's English brought me to meet Christopher McDougall the author of "Born to Run." He was so incredibly nice and down to earth and I immediately wanted to hear and meet more authors.
Turn of Mind is about Jennifer White, an orthopedic surgeon in her late 60's who has had to retire due to Alzheimer's. When her best friend and arch nemesis, turns up dead with 4 fingers surgerically removed, the mystery ensues.
While this book was definitely thought provoking, and a little depressing at times, I didn't finish reading it with a sense of foreboding or overwhelming sadness. I loved that it took me right into Jennifer's mind, and I realized that if I was confused at what was going on, then so was Jennifer. This book made me want to take extreme measures (like dance with a black cat under a full moon, or sacrifice a hampster) to make sure that I nor anyone I love ever contract Alzheimer's. What an awful disease, but what an amazing book to come from such decayed mental ashes. B+ (August 16, 2011)
Blind Your Ponies: Stanley Gordon West
I got this Audio Book as a pre-release through LibraryThing.com. I've been straying from my typical reading genres, and I've been pleasantly surprised by all the gems that I've come across.
Blind Your Ponies is about a tiny town in Montana with a losing basketball team, which can't seem to win a single game. They're on a 5 year losing streak when they get some new blood and a new outlook. I think that this book would make a great movie. As I listened to it, I could vividly picture the small town in my head, and see the townspeople in great detail. The dialogue was rather cheesy and cliche. It was a little frustrating that I couldn't read it, as I read much faster than the reader did, but I think it also brought it to better clarity.
C- (July 21, 2011)
Blind Your Ponies is about a tiny town in Montana with a losing basketball team, which can't seem to win a single game. They're on a 5 year losing streak when they get some new blood and a new outlook. I think that this book would make a great movie. As I listened to it, I could vividly picture the small town in my head, and see the townspeople in great detail. The dialogue was rather cheesy and cliche. It was a little frustrating that I couldn't read it, as I read much faster than the reader did, but I think it also brought it to better clarity.
C- (July 21, 2011)
The Grand Sophy: Georgette Heyer
Expatiate, punctilious, rubicund and obsequiously are just small sampling of the words I came across in The Grand Sophy. (Offhandedly, they mean; a long description, strictness of formalities, ruddy, and being obedient.)
That being said, I also really enjoyed this read. Sophy is sent to live with her Aunt and her family while her frequently traveling father is in Brazil on holiday. It was laugh out loud funny, and the eccentric habits and abnormal adventures of Sophy will have you wide eyed and smitten.
I haven't read an "old school" book in a long time. It took me a couple chapters to get into the refinement of the language, but once my brain wrapped around it I really liked it. It was definitely a departure from the types of books I frequent, but a welcome break from the normal, just like Sophy.
While the plot was predictable (what Victorian novel isn't) it was still a pleasant read, and I think I may see some more Georgette Heyer in my future. B (July 12, 2011)
That being said, I also really enjoyed this read. Sophy is sent to live with her Aunt and her family while her frequently traveling father is in Brazil on holiday. It was laugh out loud funny, and the eccentric habits and abnormal adventures of Sophy will have you wide eyed and smitten.
I haven't read an "old school" book in a long time. It took me a couple chapters to get into the refinement of the language, but once my brain wrapped around it I really liked it. It was definitely a departure from the types of books I frequent, but a welcome break from the normal, just like Sophy.
While the plot was predictable (what Victorian novel isn't) it was still a pleasant read, and I think I may see some more Georgette Heyer in my future. B (July 12, 2011)
Mr. Peanut: Adam Ross
Mr. Peanut is not typically the kind of book that finds its way onto my "To Read" list. I had read many positive reviews on several trusted websites and the premise intrigued me.
The story follows two men, David Pepin, who is accused of killing his wife and Sam Sheppard the detective assigned to investigate David's case.The story examines their marriages and the parallels and differences that create such unique individuals and such dramatic relationship dynamics. I repeatedly found myself getting introspective while reading this book and was constantly thankful for the relationship I have with my husband.
With the divorce rate having climbed to 45 - 50% of marriages (that's right I just Googled it), it wasn't a stretch reading the fantastical and absurd details about each of these couples' marriages. While I'm sure every person in a marriage occassionally wonders "What if I hadn't gotten married? "& "How could things be different?"; these couples take regrets and marriage misnomers to a whole new level.
During parts on the book I became depressed, shocked and downright flabbergasted; but it never lost my interest and it gave me an incredible feeling of self worth to know that Nick and I have survived the odds. A different read, but definitely one that brought my own life and relationship into perspective.
A lot of sex, swearing and violence. B (July 2, 2011)
The story follows two men, David Pepin, who is accused of killing his wife and Sam Sheppard the detective assigned to investigate David's case.The story examines their marriages and the parallels and differences that create such unique individuals and such dramatic relationship dynamics. I repeatedly found myself getting introspective while reading this book and was constantly thankful for the relationship I have with my husband.
With the divorce rate having climbed to 45 - 50% of marriages (that's right I just Googled it), it wasn't a stretch reading the fantastical and absurd details about each of these couples' marriages. While I'm sure every person in a marriage occassionally wonders "What if I hadn't gotten married? "& "How could things be different?"; these couples take regrets and marriage misnomers to a whole new level.
During parts on the book I became depressed, shocked and downright flabbergasted; but it never lost my interest and it gave me an incredible feeling of self worth to know that Nick and I have survived the odds. A different read, but definitely one that brought my own life and relationship into perspective.
A lot of sex, swearing and violence. B (July 2, 2011)
Jane Bites Back: Michael Thomas Ford
Who knew that Jane Austen was alive and well as a vampire? Michael Thomas Ford did.
Jane Austen was turned into a vampire over 200 years ago. Not only has she watched all her family die, but she's also watched the only fame she's ever known come to a head after she had died. She now lives in Upstate New York and owns Flyleaf Books, a small book store. Jane is trying to get back in the book business as an author, but is unsure about her long dormant potential.
I don't want you to get the impression that this book is in any way a downer. I genuinely chuckled through parts of it, and had my eyes wide in shock for others. It was a completely enjoyable book, and I became emotionally attached to each of the characters. Jane, who still craves the affection of her adoring fans. Walter the quiet carpenter who pines for Jane. Lucy, the enthusiastic employee and friend. And Byron, the dark horse.
I thought it was so awesome that the author could write so convincingly as a Vampire Authoress. I'm excited to read the sequel, and I hope it's as great as the first.
Some minor swearing, and brief sexual content. A+ (June 23, 2011)
Jane Austen was turned into a vampire over 200 years ago. Not only has she watched all her family die, but she's also watched the only fame she's ever known come to a head after she had died. She now lives in Upstate New York and owns Flyleaf Books, a small book store. Jane is trying to get back in the book business as an author, but is unsure about her long dormant potential.
I don't want you to get the impression that this book is in any way a downer. I genuinely chuckled through parts of it, and had my eyes wide in shock for others. It was a completely enjoyable book, and I became emotionally attached to each of the characters. Jane, who still craves the affection of her adoring fans. Walter the quiet carpenter who pines for Jane. Lucy, the enthusiastic employee and friend. And Byron, the dark horse.
I thought it was so awesome that the author could write so convincingly as a Vampire Authoress. I'm excited to read the sequel, and I hope it's as great as the first.
Some minor swearing, and brief sexual content. A+ (June 23, 2011)
Room: Emma Donoghue
From 9:00 pm-2:00 am, 5 hours, Room held me tightly in it's little 5 year old grasp and refused to let go.
Jack is turning 5. He's like most other 5 year old boys; he likes to play games and he loves Dora the Explorer. But Jack has grown up in the same room his whole life. All he knows is Room, his Ma and Old Nick who once a week brings food and occassionaly treats.
The book is told from Jack's perspective and was so accurately child-like. He takes turn of phrase literally, and is overly inquisitive.
I quite literally couldn't put this book down. I crawled onto the couch and didn't leave till I read the last page. I highly recommend this book and I'm so excited to discuss it in our June Book Club.
Click on this link to see a floorplan of Room, it will really help while you're reading the book. http://www.roomthebook.com/inside/re..._floorplan.pdf
There was some swearing, but mostly just adult themes. A+ (June 15, 2011)
Jack is turning 5. He's like most other 5 year old boys; he likes to play games and he loves Dora the Explorer. But Jack has grown up in the same room his whole life. All he knows is Room, his Ma and Old Nick who once a week brings food and occassionaly treats.
The book is told from Jack's perspective and was so accurately child-like. He takes turn of phrase literally, and is overly inquisitive.
I quite literally couldn't put this book down. I crawled onto the couch and didn't leave till I read the last page. I highly recommend this book and I'm so excited to discuss it in our June Book Club.
Click on this link to see a floorplan of Room, it will really help while you're reading the book. http://www.roomthebook.com/inside/re..._floorplan.pdf
There was some swearing, but mostly just adult themes. A+ (June 15, 2011)
A Dirty Job: Christopher Moore
At the Semi-Annual Used Book Sale at the Main Library Downtown, I picked up this title for .50 cents. I'd read Christopher Moore's "You Suck" and while it was entertaining I wasn't expecting a whole lot from "A Dirty Job." Holy twisted cheese doodle, was I wrong!!
Charlie Asher is an average "Beta-Male" who has the unlucky fortune of receiving the calling of "Death Merchant." He's basically a soul-reclaiming Repo Man. As people die their souls are stored into one of their treasured possessions and it's Charlie's job to reclaim these soul items from the family of the deceased .
This book was memorable because I laughed out loud the whole way through. Whether it was the Gothic employee Lily, with her charitable sexing; the squirrel people creatures in complete time-period costumes; or Sophie and her set of 400 lb. Hell Hounds; there were laughs to be had through all 384 pages.
There was a fair amount of sex, a lot of swearing and copious amounts of violence. Like I said, fun for the whole family!! A (May 30, 2011)
Charlie Asher is an average "Beta-Male" who has the unlucky fortune of receiving the calling of "Death Merchant." He's basically a soul-reclaiming Repo Man. As people die their souls are stored into one of their treasured possessions and it's Charlie's job to reclaim these soul items from the family of the deceased .
This book was memorable because I laughed out loud the whole way through. Whether it was the Gothic employee Lily, with her charitable sexing; the squirrel people creatures in complete time-period costumes; or Sophie and her set of 400 lb. Hell Hounds; there were laughs to be had through all 384 pages.
There was a fair amount of sex, a lot of swearing and copious amounts of violence. Like I said, fun for the whole family!! A (May 30, 2011)
