Book Review: Enna Burning

Enna Burning by Shannon Hale
This is listed as fantasy/ young adult fiction. Sometimes my tastes lean towards the Harry Potters and what not so I htough I would give this book a try. I found it delightful. Enna is a girl from the forest who is friends with Issi the princess of Baeyern. She discovers that she has a power that if not careful she could lose herself from using. I could not put this one down. It is apperently a sequel to a book called Goose Girl. I am on the audiobook waiting list for that one.

Book Review: Fordlandia:The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford's Forgotten Jungle City

Greg Landin's "Fordlandia:The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford's Forgotten Jungle City" is a familiar cautionary tale of western civilization's hubris, specifically the American can do and know how sub genre. It features phenomena observed in similiar stories, the clash and misunderstanding of cultures, human greed and stupidity, the inherent conflicts of liberal capitalism and its impulses and the futility of imposing things from above.Professor Landin's recounting of Henry Ford's 1928 purchase of a 6200 square mile tract of the Amazon rainforest in northeast Brazil and his attempt to transplant his ideals, prejudices and philosophies of society and business into one self sustaining, profitable, economically and morally uplifting American community/factory town is as interesting as it is ultimately depressing in its inevitable denouement to post modern readers. In order to contextualize his recounting of this enormous undertaking the author coterminously explains to the reader in sufficient detail both the history of world wide rubber production and the even more fascinating, and to my mind maddening, life and ideas of Henry Ford. The often puzzling contradiction of Ford's actions and strongly professed beliefs as played out during this time both in America and Brazil, complicate further the seemingly insurmountable cultural, economic and scientific problems of his plan for Fordlandia. The book makes manifest the folly of Ford's unfortunate tendency to eschew the opinions of experts in favor of his home grown cadre of self taught and field proven managers and engineers.
August 13, 2009 10:08 AM

Book Review: The Bellarosa Connection

The Bellarosa Connection
by Saul Bellow
This is a story about a subject not often covered-Jews who escaped the occupation. It is an interesting topic, and the characters are well developed and make the story enjoyable. Although this story is fiction, I imagine that a lot of the circumstances are based on events similar to those that actually happened. I would definately recommend this book.

Book Review: Franchise

Franchise by Isaac Asimov
Although I very much enjoy this author's stlye of writing, I was disapointed by this book. There really was no ending, and there was seemed no point to the book. The idea behind the story was interesting, but it needed more development.

Book Review: Through The Tunnel

Through The Tunnel
by Doris Lessing
The style of the writer leads you along. It was a simple story, but you want to see what will happen. It is always interesting to see things from the mind of a child. I was disapointed by the ending though.

Book Review: The Happy Prince

Diane said...
The Happy Prince
by Oscar Wilde
A very nice story of compassion, and giving, of need and generosity by two unlikely comrads. This book will leave you feeling good. It is refreshing to experience a happy ending.

Book Review: Broke

Broke by Brandon Adams
A good book, but you will get more out of it if you are a serious card player. Explores the social as well as the mental aspects of a fictional group of high stakes professional card players. There could be a sequel.

Book Review: I'm So Happy for You

TeamAniston! said...
I'm So Happy for You, by Lucinda Rosenfeld....The true, and often unspoken, jealousy between Best Friends...female friendship at its most honest.

Book Review: Commencement

TeamAniston! said...
Commencement, by Courtney J Sullivan...What a perfect beach read; light, quick and fun. "Commencement" follows the lives of 4 friends during their college years and Smith and after; proving that friends last long after graduation.

Book Review: Perils of Certain English Prisoners

Diane said...
Perils of Certain English Prisoners
by Charles Dickens
The fact that this book is written in that "old world style" makes a good story even more engaging. This is an interesting account of one incident in particular, and the feelings and emotions of those involved. I recommend you give this book a try.

Book Review: The Old Man & The Sea

Diane said...
The Old Man & The Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Even if fishing is not your thing, it would be impossible to not be deeply moved by Hemmingway's description of the old man's reverence and harmony with the sea and the fish in it, and in return, the town's respect for him. This is a must read.

Book Review: Glitz of The Hamptons

Glitz of The Hamptons
by Janet Berg
This is a perfectly sweet book. It will draw out your emotions. A perfect summer time read. You will be surprised by the ending (I certainly was!).

Book Review: Julie & Julia

Julie & Julia

by Julie Powell

I love to cook and love Julia Child. I thought the book was a fast read, quite entertaining and inspirational. Who doesn't want to feel like they've accomplished something at the end of the day?? elugo

Book Review: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Other Stories
by F. Scott Fitgerald
I did not see the movie, but I was pleasantly surprised by this main story. The clever descriptions of the situations made me laugh. The other stories on these CDs go in different directions, and were equally engaging. I would definitely recommend this interesting collection.

Book Review: The Visitor

The Visitor by Maeve Brennan

This book could not have a better title. This is a story about a young girls search for the love of her family and the need to belong. She can not overcome, however, the lingering anger and bitterness. I was surprised by the rash action she takes.

Book Review: Of Mice and Men

Of Mice and Men
by John Steinbeck
I find my self enjoying the classics this summer. This book is a touching protrayl of friendship and loneliness, of hope and dispair, of courage and fear. Reading and relating to this book as an adult, I was very moved.

Book Review: State Scarlet

State Scarlet
by David Aaron
This book had WAY too many characters, and, as this was a book on tape, was read way too quickly. It was very difficult to follow who was who. Basically just a "he went here, he did that" book with no description of emotion or surroundings.

Book Review: Loving Frank

Loving Frank
By Nancy Horan
In her debut novel, Nancy retells the story of the love affair between acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Borthwick Cheney, then a married woman. Their affair takes place in the 1900's, and sparked curiousity, and controversity. Nancy mixes A blend of fact and fiction, to create captivating characters that are filled with emotion. A very good read Jean Forrest

Book Review: Freakin' Fabulousby

Priscilla said...
Freakin' Fabulousby: Clinton KellyOkay I admit it! At first I only picked up this book because I recognized the author: the guy from the TV Show "What Not to Wear" ... you know that show right? With Stacey London?! Well listen up, this guy and Stacey insult and tear to pieces unsuspecting victims of their choosing just to wake them up from their fashion-stupor and make them over to look great after a treatment or two of their medicinal "fashion-lessons".Well, this book is that and more. It is actually very practical, very useful and a real eye opener. Even I got some pretty good tips that I started applying to my everyday life.The second you open to the first page you get the sense this book is like no other. For starters,the chapters are very well organized and cover every subject in life, from how to dress and speak in public to how to behave in public, eat in public and drink in public. It also lists tips on how to pick the best wine that would complement your Poultry, Pork,and Fish Dinner. There are good pointers on how to decorate certain rooms in your house to make them more inviting and also how to throw the best entertainment party in your block!In my humble opinion, the best part of this book is the way Clinton Kelly shows you visually with photos and actual case studies how to do all these fabulous things. When you finish reading this fantastic book you will indeed be "better than everyone else"... or not. But read it anyway.... who knows ... you might be elevated, as I was, to a new degree of "fabulosity"!Priscilla Grant-Owens

Book Review: Merriwether Lewisby

Priscilla said...
Merriwether Lewisby: Thomas C Danisi & John C Jackson Remember Lewis & Clark the explorers? These two brave American explorers decided to "open-up" the southern frontier back in the wild west days. Lewis & Clark, famous for their adventures while traveling along the Missouri River and its western territories. Well, this book is all about Lewis, Merriwether Lewis, who actually became the governor of Lousiana for a while and then died mysteriously at a young age. I won't give away too much detail on this book because it is best for all you readers out there to... you know... read it yourselves.Sign this book out and take it home with you. Sit in your favorite spot and start reading. This book's got everything: history, suspense, description details that just puts you right there in the middle of uncharted territory next to Commander Lewis. The writing team of Danisi & Jackson is great, they really captured the culture and the "air" prevalent during that time period of Lewis' life when he was the Governor of the Louisiana Territories!. This time is even before the famous (or infamous?!)Louisiana Purchase "thingy".You will feel the anxiety Lewis felt while making difficult political decisions that affected Native Americans in the Louisiana area and beyond. You will feel the hurt he felt when his contemporaries, including those belonging to his own religious and political affiliations, rejected and mocked most of his ideas. And finally you will feel enlightened when you read about the amazing facts and details surrounding his final moments on Earth!This is a good read, a bit long, but go ahead and reserve this book today and read it, you will not be dissapointed ... I wasn't!Priscilla Grant-Owens

Book Review: Douglas Fairbanks

Priscilla said...
DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS by: Jeffrey VanceI joined the club this year because I spend so much time at the library anyway, I might as well get some "free" candy while at it! I have the bad habit of reading "in-situ", meaning while I'm still standing in the isle looking for books to read!... I guess is a "good" bad habit yes?!I picked up this wonderful book, DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS by Jeffrey Vance. This book describes Douglas Fairbanks' personal life, his incredible body, his "drop-dead-gorgeous" eyes and his contributions to the film history and culture of Holywood during the silent films era. Almost all 367 pages contain reavealing photographs of "Doug", as he was popularly known then, throughout his short life, he died at the age of 56 years old of heart problems. You gotta see these photos, there are a few of him scantily clad, showing off his near-perfect physique and others showing off his family and famous friends. Ahh those were the days just before, during and just after the Great Depression. The grand impact that WWI and WWII had on American Film is clearly documented in every page in this book. It certainly makes for very enjoyable reading for those of us who love history and how it relates to human behavior.I loved this book, the writing style of Jeffrey Vance, while not my favorite, was very readable and full of facts all masterfully included in every chapter of this book.I recommend this book to everyone, even those who do not like biographies! Just open the first page in the introduction and you'll see what I mean... you won't be able to put down the book, trust me.Priscilla Grant-Owens

Book Review: Living with the Dead

Rhianna said...
"Living with the Dead" by Kelley Armstrong.This book is one in a series called women of otherworld. I found it intriguing and will be reading more of the series in the near future. I tend to gravitate towards supernatural stories and strong female characters and this book had both. Hope Adams is a half Demon, Adele Morrissey is a clairvoyent and Robin is a human with a lot of spunk. All in all a fun read

Book Review: DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS

I joined the club this year because I spend so much time at the library anyway, I might as well get some "free" candy while at it! I have the bad habit of reading "in-situ", meaning while I'm still standing in the isle looking for books to read!... I guess is a "good" bad habit yes?!I picked up this wonderful book, DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS by Jeffrey Vance. This book describes Douglas Fairbanks' personal life, his incredible body, his "drop-dead-gorgeous" eyes and his contributions to the film history and culture of Holywood during the silent films era. Almost all 367 pages contain reavealing photographs of "Doug", as he was popularly known then, throughout his short life, he died at the age of 56 years old of heart problems. You gotta see these photos, there are a few of him scantily clad, showing off his near-perfect physique and others showing off his family and famous friends. Ahh those were the days just before, during and just after the Great Depression. The grand impact that WWI and WWII had on American Film is clearly documented in every page in this book. It certainly makes for very enjoyable reading for those of us who love history and how it relates to human behavior.I loved this book, the writing style of Jeffrey Vance, while not my favorite, was very readable and full of facts all masterfully included in every chapter of this book.I recommend this book to everyone, even those who do not like biographies! Just open the first page in the introduction and you'll see what I mean... you won't be able to put down the book, trust me.Priscilla Grant-Owens

Book Review: Freakin' Fabulous

Freakin' Fabulous
by:Clinton Kelly
At first I picked up this book because I recognized the author: the guy from the TV Show What Not to Wear... you know that show right? Stacy London and this guy insult and tear to pieces unsuspecting victims to make them look great after a treatment or two of their medicinal "fashion-lessons".Well, this book is that and more. Is actually very practical, very useful and really, even I got some pretty good tips that I started applying to my everyday life.The second you open up to the first page you get the sense this book is like no other. For starters,the chapters are very well organized and they cover every subject in life, from how to dress and speak in public to how to behave, eat and drink while in a formal gathering. It also lists tips on how to pick the best wine that would complement your Poultry, Pork,and Fish Dinner. There are good pointers on how to decorate certain rooms and how to throw the best entertainment party in your block!In my humble opinion, the best part of this book is the way Clinton Kelly shows you visually with photos and actual case studies how to do all these fabulous things. When you finish reading this fantastic book you will indeed be "better than everyone else"... or not. But read it anyway....

Book Review: Merriwether Lewis

Merriwether Lewis

by Thomas C Danisi &John C Jackson

Remember Lewis & Clark the explorers? These two brave American explorers decided to "open-up" the southern frontier back in the wild west days. Lewis & Clark, famous for their adventures while traveling along the Missouri River and its western territories. Well, this book is all about Lewis, Merriwether Lewis, who actually became the governor of Lousiana for a while and then died mysteriously at a young age. I won't give away too much detail on this book because it is best for all you readers out there to, you know, read it yourselves.Sign this book out and take it home with you. Sit in your favorite spot and start reading. This book's got everything: history, suspense, description details that just puts you right there in the middle of uncharted territory next to Lewis. The team of Danisi & Jackson is great, they really captured the culture and the "air" prevalent during that time period of Lewis' life when he was a Governor.You will feel the anxiety Lewis felt while making difficult political decisions that affected Native Americans in the Lousiana area and beyond. You will feel the hurt he felt when his contemporaries, including those belonging to his own religious and political affiliations, rejected and mocked most of his ideas. And finally you will feel enlightened when you read about the amazing facts and details surrounding his final moments on Earth.This is a good read,reserve this book today and read it, you will not be dissapointed ... I wasn't!Priscilla Grant-Owens

Book Review: FREE MONEY to Pay Your Bills!

Priscilla said...
FREE MONEY to Pay Your Bills!by: Mathew Lesko & Mary Ann MartelloThis book basically lists loads of information on thousands of government programs designed to help out the average, and also not-so-average, person out there living in Recession-Riddled America.Be prepared to read about how to apply for these programs, tips on how to qualify and properly submit these forms to the different government entities. In other words, this does not make for exciting reading ...so don't take it home and open a bottle of your finest vintage wine,no. This is more like just take it home and brew some coffee and read and take notes!Nevertheless,this is a good reference book to look over and jot down the websites and other useful information to keep handy this year and the next. Especially in this economy and the global recession we are going through right now. This book is like a small light at the end of the tunnel for many of us who have been deeply affected by the economic downturn around here.Priscilla Grant-Owens

Book Review: True Colors

jlucjen said...
"True Colors" by Kristin HannahWinona strong character, but ending was lacking finality, (unless theres a sequel)

Book Review: Paradise Lost

jlucjen said...
"Paradise Lost"by JA JanceI guess a book in a series about Joanna Brady, who became the county Sheriff after her hubby was killed on the job. back jacket makes the plot sound more mysterious than it actually is, but it has an ok amount of the character's personal drama mixed with the twists and turns of the crime, ok for its genre.

Book Review: Odd Hours

jlucjen said...
"Odd Hours" by Dean Koontz-Not my favorite out of the Odd Thomas series- and wanted to know more about Annamaria

Book Review: The Swallo & The Tom Cat

Diane said...
The Swallo & The Tom Cat
by Jorege Amado
A very simple story, but this book is all about the way it is told. The description of the animals with unique human characteristics made me laugh out loud. The author takes a lot of chances with his unusual writing style, but he definatley makes it work. Just a fun book to read.

Book Review: The Yellow Wallpaper & Other Stories

Diane said...
The Yellow Wallpaper & Other Stories
by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
This is a collection of stories by a womans rights activist dating back to 1897. This is a fascinating look at the state of woman's affairs early on. Very interesting stories even if you are not interested in the topic. All in all a very positive uplifting collcetion of stories.

Book Review: Blasphemy

Blasphemy
by Douglas Preston
Definitely one of my favorite authors. A gripping account of a frightening set of circumstances that could actually occur. Lends a interesting look into human nature. Well developed characters and a thoroughly developed plot. If you read this book, you will be looking for more of his work.

Book Review: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
by Agatha Christie
This is my first Agatha Christie, but it's not going to be my last. The characters were well-drawn and the ending came as a complete surprise.Kathy Carter

Book Review: Plum Spooky

Plum Spooky
By: Janet Evanovich
Yet another thrilling and adventurous Stephanie Plum novel. This was one of the between the series novels that I read while waiting to get my fingers on the fifteenth one. As all of the other books, this one had me hooked from cover to cover! You never know whos going to end up involved in the plot, or what trouble Stephanie gets into next. These Stephanie Plum novels are a mix of murder mystery, and comedy. But don't take them lightly because once you pick up the book you won't be able to put it back down.

Book Review: Banshee Cries

I have been hooked on C.E. Murphy whom I came upon on accident. I am just finishing up Banshee Cries which is a novella. This series is about a woman names Joanne Walkingstick who has shamanistic abilities. Love the sarcasm and the storyline!

Book Review: The Other Boleyn Girl

LaMaestra33 said...
I have also read The Other Boleyn Girl and loved every piece of the series. Philippa Gregory has made me hungry for more historical fiction!

Book Review: Who Killed Swami Schwartz?

Who Killed Swami Schwartz?

By Nora Charles

I didn't realize this was a "Senior Sleuth Mystery" when I checked it out, but it really didn't matter. 2nd Book in a series, it is a light easy read about a Long Island transplant widower who solves mysteries is sunny Florida. Quick read, fun characters and a good 'ol who-dun-it! This book is about the murder of a yogi instructor who is murdered at a dinner in his honor. The list of suspects is long and colorful. I read it in under 8 hours. Great beach series!Loking forward to the next book.

Book Review: Pleasure Unbound

Pleasure Unbound by Larissa Ione was quite a surprisingly pleasant find. The perfect Summer reading material. If you're in to Vampires, Werewolfs, contemporary city settings, and oh yea, love; you'll enjoy this. Can't wait to read the sequel.
July 5, 2009 9:14 AM

Book Review: The Iron Hunt

The Iron Hunt
by Marjorie M. Liu
Maxine Kiss is the only hunter of her kind. Her job is an inherited one - it passes from mother to daughter. Covered with protective tattoos that she calls "the boys," she knows that she will soon be called upon to defend the earth. But on whose side?

Book Review: Rococo

Rococo
by Adriana Trigiani
A very funny look at an Italian-American family who live in NJ. B is the interior decorator for this small town and his secret dream is to be chosen to design the renovation of his church - Our Lady of Fatima. The characters, especially his family, are what the book a delight.

Book Review: Gaudy Night

Gaudy Night
by Dorothy L. Sayers
This 1936 mystery featuring Harriet Vane and her sometime love Lord Peter Wimsey has the ability to take the reader to those uncertain times when women were just barely allowed to get a college education. Set in a fictional all-women's college, this mystery doesn't have a murder, but it does have charm. Not a page-turner but loaded with atmosphere and character.

Book Review: The Help

Career Counselor said...
The Help by Kathryn StockettIn Jackson, Mississippi, in 1962, there are lines that are not crossed. With the civil rights movement exploding all around them, three women start a movement of their own, forever changing a town and the way women--black and white, mothers and daughters--view one another.

Book Review: Still Life

Still Life - by Joy Fielding
A woman, while in a coma, gets to listen to those close to her and discovers more about her friends and family than she bargained for!A quick, thrilling ride that you hate to see end! A must read for fans of the thriller/mystery and of Joy Fielding!
June 3, 2009 9:19 AM

Book Review: Handle with Care

Handle with Care - Jodi Picoult
Once again the author visits a moral dilema......should a mother sue her obstetrician, and best friend, with a wrongful birth suit to provide for the future of her sickly child? A quick and riveting read from the author of My Sister's Keeper.- Jennifer Matelski

Book Review: The Secret River

The Secret River
byKate Grenville
Fascinating novel about a London family who are deported to New South Wales for stealing a load of wood. They soon make a home for themselves there, with William Thornhill growing corn and transporting other people’s crops and products to Sydney on his boat. The author gives the reader a sense of what it means to be a pioneer in an alien environment and the courage and hope it demands. The story was inspired by the author’s search for her convict ancestor.
Kathy Carter

Book Review: The White Tiger

The White Tiger
by
Aravind Adiga
Balram Halwai comes from the impoverished village of Laxmangarh, in India. He secures a job chauffeuring a rich landlord’s nephew around Delhi. Balram tells his story through a series of letters written over seven nights to the Chinese premier who is expected to visit India. We see the story through his eyes and we know right from the beginning that he has killed his employer, his master. He then takes the money that was intended for bribing Indian officials and uses it as a nest egg for his own entrepreneurial activities. Balram is a clever and resourceful narrator with a witty and sarcastic edge that endears him to readers, even as he rails about corruption, allows himself to be defiled by his bosses, spews coarse invective and eventually profits from moral ambiguity and outright criminality. Even when does bad things, we can’t help but pull for him. 2008 Man Booker Award Winner
February 18, 2009 12:16 PM

Book Review: Blossom Street Series

Linda said...
I read the entire Blossom Street series by Debbie Macomber over the course of a couple of months. I loved all of the books but the first one was my favorite. Check them out! The Shop on Blossom Street A Good Yarn Back on Blossom Street Twenty Wishes
I hear the next one will be out this summer, I can't wait!