Meggie's Book Club

Tiger's Wife - Tea Obreht

2011-09-16T11:11:00.003-04:00

My mom gave this book to my husband and I to read. I picked it up one morning off the dresser and dug in. As you know, I have a rule that I can't quit books. And that's probably why most of my reviews are positive. Because books always get better and lots of people quit them too early.
I am glad I finished Tiger's Wife. But I didn't love the book, just parts of it. And side note: it was beautifully written.
Natalia is a doctor who is providing medicine and care to orphans in an impoverished village. Raised by her grandfather who brought life to tall tales, she mourns his recent death by trying to uncover additional details of his stories. Namely, that of the Tiger's Wife and the Deathless Man.
As the story goes, a Tiger terrorizes a local community that her grandfather grew up in. But not by violence, by the mere fear and threat of what power the Tiger possessed. The only two that weren't afraid was Natalia's grandfather and the Tiger's Wife. The Deathless Man came into her grandfather's life as he was older. And then again two other times. And his namesake is quite literal. He can't die. Both of those stories were captivating. I wanted to read entire novels about them. But the book vascilated between those stories and that of Natalia's life as a doctor. If there was a cohesive theme, it escaped me. However, there is no doubt that death took a big role in this novel.
Maybe you should read it and tell me what you think?

Bel Canto - Ann Patchett

2011-09-16T10:31:00.002-04:00

An amazing vocalist performs at the home of the Vice President of an unnamed South American country. Various dignitaries are present and just as she completes a song, a group of 18 terrorists attack from the air conditioning ducts.

They immediately take control of the situation, yet remain primarily nonviolent. What happens next is the unexpected. The individuals, both captors and hostages alike, create their own ecosystem. Gen, the translator, becomes a filter in which all relationships must flow in order to communicate. The vocalist takes an apprentice under her wing. The captors play chess with the hostages. The Vice President becomes a mentor to a young terrorist. As their lives begin to intertwine, new roles emerge and reality seems to slip further away. The only contact they have with the outside world is through their messenger and Red Cross mediator, Messner.

Their world, closed within the four walls of this mansion starts to become their new reality. Love. Friendship. Family. But how long can it last?
I loved this book. Couldn't put it down. It's a reminder that circumstance can be the catalyst of new relationships. And that despite differences of upbringing, status and even language, the foundation of humanity is still our common denominator.
Read it. Take my word for it.

Cat's Cradle - Kurt Vonnegut

2011-09-16T10:04:00.003-04:00

My second book of the many Vonnegut has written, and I am starting to understand why people love him and his writing so much. Cat's Cradle was brilliantly written. It's depth and humor combine to make it enjoyable, yet thought provoking.
Where to begin to describe this plot!! The narrator of the book wants to write a novel about the day the first atomic bomb was dropped on Japan. As part of his research, he encounters the bizarre family of Doctor Felix Hoenikker, the genius scientist who fathered the atomic bomb. From there, his journey takes him to the island of San Lorenzo where he learns the religion of Bokonism, becomes president, and falls in love.

The characters he encounters are all so interesting and absurd that they alone could carry the novel. But then he weaves them in a tapestry which is funny and asks us all to reflect on the self-made problems our society has and the characters become even more complex. Oh, and did I mention that Felix has created a substance that turns liquid to solid and therefore could destroy the entire world?
I know there are so many more Vonnegut books to read, but I am now hooked.

Room by Emma Donoghue

2011-07-14T11:15:00.004-04:00

I can't tell you the last time I read through an entire book in less than 24 hours. Oh wait, I just did. With Room. Dear heavens this book is good. So much so that I bought it at Target 2 weeks ago and put it in the "on deck" pile. Then I bought it again in the Toronto airport, forgetting I had purchased it. I have two copies. I am not mad at it. It's that good.

You know the Jaycee Dugard story right? This is similar in some ways. Told from the view of 5 year old, Jack, this book follows the life of he and his mom. They live in a room. She was kidnapped at age 19. Raped almost nightly, eventually Jack was born. Jack believes that the room is the entire world. Nothing exists outside of it. He watches TV and thinks it's all make believe. He thinks anything "Old Nick" brings them actually comes from God. He is smart. He is loving. He is adorable. Ma makes up games and adventures for them to pass the time, to keep him safe, to provide fun and to educate him. Ma is an amazing ma.

And then, they come up with a plan for "The Great Escape."
Try to open this book, read a few pages and then put it down. You won't be able to. This book awakened a lot of emotions in me. I want more of it. I want to know Jack.
Read it. I can lend you a couple of copies.

Skeletons at the Feast - Chris Bohjalian

2011-07-14T10:13:00.002-04:00

I have been reading a lot of books that are based in the early to mid 1900's lately and have loved them all. Unbroken (MUST read). HeLa (the latest). And now a novel that explores WWII and the Holocaust not just from those that were persecuted as Jews, but also a German family forced from their home and a Scottish POW.

A well-off Prussian family becomes refugees as they flee west, trying to stay ahead of the Russian Army. The father and his two eldest sons leave their family to fight while the mother, Anna and Theo trek on with their Scottish POW. He was stationed at their estate to work and is accompanying them on the journey. They meet up with a Jewish escapee, Uri, who poses as a German soldier. He becomes their protector, forming a strong bond with the family and a friendship with the POW.

Parallel to this, the novel follows young Jewish women in a concentration camp and as they are marched and marched and marched. The barbarity they experience is unthinkable and ties well into Uri's desire to try to find his own sister who was taken away to a camp before he escaped.

The political complexities of being a wealthy family who at one time supported Hitler, to caring for a Jewish soldier as he protects them from the cruelties of war are captivating. The love story between Anna and her Scottish POW is sensual and inspiring. It is as easy to turn the pages as it is to difficult read the brutal words of war.
I loved it.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - Rebecca Skloot

2011-06-28T15:24:00.002-04:00

Back in February I taught a class at DePauw University. And as part of my "thank you," one of my former professors and mentors sent me this book. I love people that take initiative to send books. It's such a fun and personal gift.

The Immortal Life... is what happens when a curious science student learns about HeLa cells and decides to research. What Rebecca Skloot finds out could be the plot of a fiction novel. But instead, is every bit true. In the 1950's, Henrietta Lacks, a poor black woman died of cervical cancer. Doctors helped themselves to her cells for experimental purposes. What they found was that her cells were unlike any they had experienced before. They not only survived in the lab, they thrived.
They called them HeLa cells and their amazing sustainability gave scientists around the world the opportunity to test cures for all sorts of diseases, starting with polio. Henrietta's family had no idea any of this was happening. They didn't know why or how their mother died nor that doctors stole her cells. They lived in poverty barely being able to afford health insurance while their mother's cells were being mass reproduced and shipped across the world to solve the most complex scientific mysteries.
So Skloot starts to unravel the details to this strange but true tale and eventually earns the trust of the Lacks family. As she works with them to learn about the mother and wife Henrietta was, she explains to them what's been going on with her cells over the past decades. Their emotions range from anger, pride, resentment and paranoia.
This is Henrietta's story. Of her life. Her family. Her cells.
You'll love it.

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption - Laura Hillenbrand

2011-05-13T14:14:00.005-04:00

It's rare that a non-fiction book captures my attention the way Unbroken has. It's a story that both haunts me and inspires me. And it's a book you must read. Must.

Louie Zamperini was a pistol as a child and when he finally channeled that troublemaker energy into something productive, he became a superstar athlete. He competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics and was well on his way to breaking the world record by running the mile race in 4 minutes. And then WWII happened. He joined the Army and became a bombardier. After surviving some harrowing air combats, he went on a search mission for a lost plane. The engines on his plane failed and he was left stranded in the middle of the ocean with two other men.

The first scene of this book is Louie and his friends, dodging Japanese bullets as sharks circled their raft. From this point on, the intensity of this story never slows down.

I don't want to spoil the plot for you by telling you all the things Louie went through. But what I can tell you is that it is one of the best, most horrifying stories I have ever read. He proves that humans can endure almost anything and that the will of survival is stronger than any of us imagine.
You must read this book. Must.

The Piano Teacher - Janice Y. K. Lee

2011-05-13T13:50:00.003-04:00

When my local Borders went out of business, I scooped up as many good looking books as I could. Yes, I said good looking. Cover? check. Skim the bookcover summary? check. On sale? check. So this was one of my finds.

A calm slow start, the beginning of the book describes Englishwoman Claire as she first moves to Hong Kong in the 1950s. Her husband transferred there for his job and she soon picks up a part-time gig teaching piano to the privileged daughter of a prominent Chinese couple. While there every week, she meets their driver, Will Truesdale who takes an interest in Claire. And she returns the sentiment. As their affair unfolds, the story flip flops between the current state of affairs in the 50's to the 1940's, when WWII erupted. Before Japan occupied the country, Will and his girlfriend Trudy were inseparable. But when he is imprisoned by the Japanese, she is left to fight for survival by unfortunate means. Both are wrapped up in a governmental drama that has a fatal outcome. When the past starts to reveal itself to Claire, she too is brought into the mix, as are the family of the piano student.
The plot is always calm, yet somewhat addicting. The characters are complex as much between the lines as they are in their dialogue. And it opened my eyes to a historical situation I knew nothing about.

Galápagos - Kurt Vonnegut

2011-03-31T08:57:00.005-04:00

I live in Indianapolis. So did Kurt Vonnegut. We even have a memorial library here in honor of him. And people whose taste in books I respect have said good things. So I purchased "Galapagos."

The story is set "one million years ago", in 1986 AD and is narrated by a decapitated shipbuilder. He describes the decline of the human race through the eyes of some very interesting people, all of whom were to take the "Cruise of the Century" to the Galapagos Islands. Including a high school teacher, a Japanese scientist, an American con-artist, a blind woman, a diseased Captain and a few other gems, the cast of characters keeps this novel light-hearted. Bouncing back from past to future, however, I found it difficult to assess the present. I kept thinking that the novel was leading up to the current state of the world but instead, we learned about the pasts of the characters, how they came to be responsible for the continuation of humankind, and how our world evolved into that of "small brained" individuals with flippers.

Here's what I know. I like his writing. It's funny. And quirky. And there is depth between the lines. This book was interesting although I found the ecological details sometimes clouded the storyline.

But I am all in for more KV, and have a long way to go. Next!

Apologize, Apologize! by Elizabeth Kelly

2011-03-23T09:21:00.002-04:00

The summary on the back cover of this book is misleading. Yes, it revolves around Collie and his upbringing. The book focuses a lot on his crazy, wealthy, eccentric, alcoholic family. And yes, it's a coming of age novel about how Collie navigates all of this to become a grown man.

But it leaves out a really, really big plot point. And I am going to as well. Because it's not one that we can spoil for you. Just take my word on this - the book is better than even the summary suggests.

Collie doesn't want to rely on his grandpa's wealth. He's frustrated over his brother's lack of focus and ambition and has a love/hate relationship with his father. He fights with his hippie mother and doesn't want to race pigeons with his drunk uncle. Needless to say, his family is a huge part of his life, yet he wishes they would let him become someone else entirely. Someone who can go to the schools he wants, study what he wants and not have to live amongst 15 pet dogs. His journey comes with tribulations. And excitement. Laughter. Tears.

This book is funny. Poignant. Sad. And just plain bizarre. A perfect recipe for a good novel.

Snowdrops by A.D. Miller

2011-03-23T08:54:00.004-04:00

When Borders has a going out of business sale, mama stocks up on books.
And this was one I picked off a shelf with little evaluation. Pretty cover. Good length. Reasonable price. Interesting summary. Done.

What I found most fascinating about this book is that it feels as if we have known the main character for a very long time, and he is just sitting down to tell his an interesting story about his life.
Nick Platt is from England but moved to Russia years ago to follow his career. He's an attorney and works in some shady business - with oil companies, mafia-esque businessmen and dirty paperwork. But the money is there and he doesn't get involved enough to feel a moral conflict.
He randomly meets two beautiful Russian women and makes Masha his lover. Desperate to find someone he could consider "the one," Nick placates Masha's family and her strange relationship behavior. When she introduces him to her Aunt Tatiana and asks for his help in securing her a new apartment, he doesn't flinch.This isn't a suspenseful mystery. The ending is actually quite predictable but that didn't bother me. The story was told as a confession and it was entertaining and engaging. In the end, it's more about what Nick learned and how these events shaped his life rather than the actual logistics.
It's not the best book you'll ever read, nor one I would pay full hardback pricing for. But I'd loan it to you. And you'd like it.

The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman

2011-03-23T08:44:00.003-04:00

I picked this book up in an airport and was hooked instantly. So much that I considered pulling an all-nighter to finish it.
The story revolves around an English newspaper based in Italy. This paper, the newsroom and the constantly changing industry serve as a background in which we are introduced to a variety of characters. Each chapter presents their individual stories, all of them linking back to the common thread of the paper.
And each story is captivating. The editor, the foreign correspondent, the free-lance writer, copy-editor, obituary writer, the president of the paper - we learn about their lives, their trials and their occasional rewards.
I never wanted the chapters to end, they left me wanting more.
It's hard to believe that this is Rachman's freshman novel. His writing is brilliant and comes at a great time, when we all witness the demise of the printed newspaper.

I will say, I didn't love the ending. But after some time away from the emotions I conjured up for each of the characters, I realize that it ended with purpose. It may not be the outcome I wanted, but it was fitting.
You have to read this. It won't take you long, but you will be fully absorbed into the plot instantly.

Juliet - by Anne Fortier

2011-03-07T13:19:00.005-05:00

Toss in some historical fiction, a trip to Sienna, Italy, a bit of romance and a dash of The Da Vinci Code, and you come up with "Juliet." It's a recipe for success.
When Julie Jacobs learns that her Aunt Rose has passed away, she expects the will to rain fortunes down upon her and her twin sister, Janice. But instead, she is given a ticket to Italy and a key. When she arrives in Sienna, Italy the details start to unfold. Her real name is Giulietta Tolomei, a descendant of the Tolomei and Salembeni family struggle. The curse on both of the families is still alive and well, a mere 600 years later. As Julie/Giulietta navigates the pasts of her family, she learns that it was here in Sienna, not Verona, that the true Romeo and Juliet story unfolded.

She isn't sure exactly what she's searching for. Is is just to learn more about her family and the famous history surrounding it? What about the rumored treasure that lies at Juliet's grave? And is there a chance for her to find her own Romeo in the process?

I'm a big fan of historical fiction and I loved how not only this book stayed true to a lot of the Romeo & Juliet legend, but it also involved a mystery and some high action plot lines. Pick it up. You'll love it.

Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy O'Toole

2011-03-07T12:57:00.004-05:00

I was referred to this book by a friend and when I went to purchase it at Borders, the lady who helped me had just added it to the "Staff Picks" section. It's her favorite too.

Two recommendations and yet I still had no idea what to expect. And after reading it, I now understand why you can't really summarize this book succinctly. But, I am going to try.

Set in New Orleans, the main character, Ignatius J. Reilly, is quite possibly is the strangest character I have ever encountered. He's 30+ years old, lives with his mother, is well-learned and suffers from a testy valve (which is his term to describe flatulence). He's rude, loud, self-centered and a liar.

He spent his days writing down his ideas and theories while holed up in his bedroom, until he is almost arrested by Patrolman Mancuso while shopping with his mother. From there, his life takes a bit of a turn. His mother, who was quite traumatized by the patrolman, manages to drunk drive her way into a car accident and the dynamic duo realize that Ignatius must get a job to help pay off the debts.

Thus starts a series of events that can't really be described. I can tell you they involve Ignatius starting a factory riot, pushing a hot dog vendor cart, wearing a pirate's outfit and attempting to start a new political party. And the rest of the characters? Don't you worry. While Ignatius is definitely the standout, they don't disappoint. Darlene is a stripper that works the stage with the help of her talented parrot. Miss Trixie is the oldest person alive and manages to hold down a job despite her narcolepsy. Mancuso is forced to patrol the streets in various disguises. I could go on....but you get the point.

I wasn't sure how I felt about the book as I was reading it. In my opinion, it's not laugh-out-loud funny. But as I was talking to a friend, I caught myself grinning while discussing the details of the story lines. It's bizarre and strange and yet, hard to put down.

Enjoy.

Motherless Brooklyne - Jonathan Lethem

2011-03-07T12:40:00.006-05:00

This isn't your typical detective novel. The protagonist isn't your typical main character. He's not handsome. He didn't come from a career in the military or some swanky law firm. He doesn't have women at every port.

Lionel Essrog is an orphan with Tourette's syndrome. When he was growing up in a boy's home, Frank Minna enlisted the help of Lionel and three other orphans. He paid them $20 a week to help him with various tasks, all of which were illegal in some sort. As these boys grew up, they left the island of Misfit Toys and became Minna Men, operating as detectives out of a fake car service company.

When Frank is murdered, Lionel takes it upon himself to find the murderer. He is, after all, a detective. But doing this while suffering from Tourette's isn't easy. He is obsessive and compulsive. He shouts inappropriate sentences and spends a large portion of his day trying to reason with his impulsive brain.

In his quest, Lionel learns he can trust no one as he navigates the world of mobsters, Japanese money laundering and zen retreats.

This book is surprisingly heartwarming. You can't help but root for Lionell and his charming tics.

What This River Keeps - Greg Schwipps

2011-02-02T14:11:00.004-05:00

It's a totally different experience reading a book that's written by someone you know. Greg Schwipps is a professor at DePauw and though I never had him in class, my husband did. He and his wife came to our wedding. His wife worked with my husband. And I know, that if there is any one writer that my husband considers a mentor, it's Greg Schwipps.

JD bought the book as soon as it was published and I just recently finished it.
The story is based in small town Indiana. The main characters are an older couple and their friend, Chub, their son Ollie, his friend Coondog, and his girlfriend Summer. The relationships between these people are typical of midwest values. Strong family ties, long-lasting friendships and the desire to stick together through thick and thin. The bond in this small town will not be broken over hurt feelings or strained relationships.

When the government plans to flood the river, providing a reservoir for entertainment for the patrons, the city unites. Just one more obstacle in achieving a peaceful life of contentment.

If you've read any of Kent Haruf's books, or Driftless, you will see a similarity in Schwipps is writing. It's honest and respectful. It's calm and slow but with purpose. The book moves at a pace that's expected for something based in rural Indiana. And it's comforting. Add in a sweet dog named Catfish and it's a book that will stay with me for a long time.
I hope Schwipps has a long writing career ahead of him.

Night Fall - Nelson Demille

2011-02-02T13:55:00.005-05:00

In 1996, TWA 800 exploded into the sky. All passengers perished in the water along Long Island's coast and the plane was eventually ruled as having "mechanical failure." However, over 200 witnesses swear to seeing something resembling a missile launching through the night sky towards the plane before it exploded. As a result, many conspiracy theories have surfaced.

Demille takes on these theories as he introduces husband and wife, Kate and Corey. Both working for the government, Kate was assigned the crash investigation. At the five year anniversary of the tragedy, she enlists the help of her husband to research the theory that someone struck the plane, causing it to crash. Her main point of evidence is a picnic scene and a video camera lens cover, left at the beach the night the plane crashed. She believes that a couple was having an affair, videotaping themselves and witnessed the accident. As a result, the entire missile strike and plane crash could be captured on video.

Corey and Kate are met with extreme resistance by the FBI as they continue to look into the case. The only way they are going to get anywhere and locate this couple is if they do it behind the government's backs, putting both their careers and their lives at stake.

The story is fascinating and I have done some research on the TWA 800 crash since I completed the book. There are plenty of conspiracy websites out there, still rebutting the government conclusion of mechanical failure. Many people feel the real cause of the explosion is known and is just covered up by the government. Regardless, this fiction work by Demille will strike your interest and keep your attention.

Oryx & Crake - Margaret Atwood

2011-01-13T11:08:00.002-05:00

You know when you finish a book and you think to yourself, "Man, anything I read after this is going to be crap" because the book was just that good? Yeah... that's how I feel about Oryx & Crake. I loved it. Loved. I couldn't put it down.

It was referred by my mom. And my brother. And my husband. That's a good cheering section.

I don't know the year. I don't know the exact location. But Snowman is wrapped in an old sheet, living in a tree. Crake's Children are everywhere and they know so little about anything. He can't have a conversation with them without having to stop to explain what wind is, what pain feels like, what storms are. He is the only one left like him. Everyone else around him are perfect specimen who only eat vegetables, who can't catch disease and who are infinitely happy. As he navigates this new world, he flashes back to tell the story of when he was Jimmy and when Crake wasn't always Crake.

They were childhood best friends, living in a science community. Their parents all worked for a life science company that focused their efforts on extreme advancements in everything from food to disease. The two boys grew up together, playing video games, talking about girls, watching illicit things on the web. It was there that they first met Oryx, the pixie star of a pedophilic film. When they went off to college, Jimmy's experience was relatively "normal" while Crake spends his time developing "Crakers" - a new race of humans. He finds Oryx and hires her as his assistant.

It's soon after that an apocalyptic event occurs, leaving Snowman as the last remaining human.

The writing is smooth and the story tells itself. My husband hated the ending, but I liked it. I can't wait to hear what you think.

The Monster of Florence - Douglas Preston & Mario Spezi

2010-12-28T13:50:00.004-05:00

My brother gave this book to me after we returned from our trip to Italy. We loved Florence - such a beautiful and lively city. And Tuscany...dear heavens I could live there forever. He loved this book because it is a true story set in one of our favorite cities.
If you've seen Hannibal, you have heard of the Monster of Florence. A few scenes in Hannibal were derived from this serial killer who started his/her trade back in the sixties and continued well into the eighties. The killer preyed on couples, usually "parking" in the quiet Tuscany countryside. Carefully leaving little evidence, the killer eluded the investigators for years.
Douglas Preston moved to Italy with his family while he was writing a fiction murder novel. While there, he met Mario Spezi who brought him into the fold of the Monster case. It had been years since the last killing yet the case remained unsolved and open. As Preston and Spezi started to look at the evidence in new light, they felt confident they discovered who the murderer was. Unfortunately, this development cast shame on the Italian force who then turned the tides on Spezi. Two journalists, Preston and Spezi, became the main suspects in the killings.
Here's the thing. The book tells this story well...but it was slow moving. I kept thinking that had this been a fiction novel, it would have been more sensationalized and therefore a bit more interesting. However, it was fascinating to read about the crimes and even more so, how the police dealt with the many suspects over the years.
An epilogue talks about the Amanda Knox trial and how there too, a woman is subjected to the unfair and corrupt police force. I have followed her trials closely and never before has it seemed someone has been so unjustly dealt with. I hope that through the work of journalists like Spezi and Preston, she too can find justice.

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest - Stieg Larsson

2010-12-28T13:38:00.004-05:00

The final installment of Stieg Larsson's trilogy didn't disappoint. In fact, I think it was the best of the series. SPOILER ALERT - don't read this if you haven't read the first two!
Lisbeth, who was shot multiple times at the end of The Girl Who Played With Fire, remains hospitalized and yet still the main suspect of three murders. Mikael Blomkvist, her estranged lover and friend, vows to help prove her innocence. In the process, he must also reveal the buried secrets of her father, Zala which means going against the government and police force. The stakes are high and his allies must be trustworthy. Salander is protected at all times while in the hospital so Blomkvist's sister takes on her case to not only ensure her a fair trial, but also to liaise between Mikael and Lisbeth.
True to Larsson's form, the book moves fast with page-turning action and deep character development. As expected, I was gutted to see the last page as it signifies the final book we'll read from Larsson. For those who have heard mixed reviews on this series, I urge you to stick with it. The first book, though fantastic, pales in comparison to the other two. Brilliant.

The Girl Who Played With Fire - Stieg Larsson

2010-12-10T07:28:00.004-05:00

Lisbeth is back! The Girl Who Played with Fire is the sequel to The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2nd in the 3 book series). Starting right where the last one left off, we are brought into Lisbeth Salandar's dark life once again.

It's been about a year since she and Mikael took down a shady financial businessmen and solved the case of Hariett Vanger. Lisbeth has disappeared from everyone in her life. Gallivanting around the world, she leads her typical loner life in various countries. Mikael, after relentlessly (and unsuccessfully) trying to reach Lisbeth, continues his journalistic work back at The Millennium. After just a few weeks of working on a breaking story about sex trafficking with two freelance writers, Mikael finds himself embedded in another mystery. The two journalists are killed and Lisbeth is the main suspect. Having had no contact with her in over a year, Mikael resolves to clear her name and solve the homicide.

Meanwhile, Lisbeth must face the horrors of her past if she wants to convince the world of her innocence. Gangs, sex, deceit, corruption and edge-of-your-seat action makes this second book a thriller.

The other day, while eating lunch, I saw a man reading TGWTDT. I wanted to sit down and have an impromptu book club with him. These books are that fantastic.

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas - Hunter S. Thompson

2010-11-29T10:31:00.005-05:00

Anyone who knows me, knows that this book is not a typical pick-up at Borders for me. Centered around two men's journey to Las Vegas while on every possible drug known to man...it's just not something I would normally find interesting. But I was told to read it by a trusted source. So purchase it, I did. And I read it. And I liked it.

The first few pages are magnetic. A journalist and his attorney are driving to Vegas in a convertible. They have a trunk full of drugs. Mescaline. LSD. Pot. Ether. They are high as hell and while one sees bats flying at his face, the other decides to pick up a hitchhiker. It definitely sets the tone for a book full of obscure, crazy scenarios. Don't expect to read a novel about gambling, shows and shopping on The Strip. Instead be prepared for paranoia, theft, hallucinations, bears. Drives to nowhere. Interactions with policemen who fight the war on drugs. Stories about espionage.

I am the type of reader and movie watcher that loves a happy ending. That being said, though I love closure, I can very much appreciate the purposeful "open-ended" ending (i.e. Sopranos series finale.) As I read F&L, I naturally hoped that it would end with the two men in a good place. Whether that meant they have achieved success in finding the American Dream or were just sober...I wanted to see them taking control of the uncontrollable. But I knew from my start with this book that I needed to let go of my preconceived notions and go where the book took me. I can't say why exactly, but the book was captivating. The highs were described in such great, fantasized detail that it's hard not to feel a little light headed while reading.

This is heralded as the "best book on the dope decade" by NY Times and though I am no connoisseur of this genre, I do agree that it was a great book. Pick it up next time you are at a bookstore. Or borrow it from the Dials' library. It's worth it.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - Stieg Larsson

2010-11-03T15:38:00.003-04:00

You are living under a rock if you haven’t heard of these books. Stieg Larsson has written a 3-book series that has taken over the bestseller lists worldwide. I have seen them all over airports and bookstores and quickly judged a book by its cover and title. For some reason I assumed that it was a coming-of-age novel about a girl in Asia who had a tattoo. Ha! I was way off.

The main characters are Lisbeth Salander (the girl) who is single, in her mid-twenties and who works for a research and private investigating company based in Sweden. She has a troubled past, a guardian who looks over her finances, a sick mother and clearly some deep dark secrets. Alongside her is Mikael Blomkvist, a prized financial journalist who watches his career and reputation crumble after he loses a libel suit against a gangster businessman. He is sentenced to three months in jail, his publication faces bankruptcy and all hope seems lost until he receives a strange business proposition by an older man, Henrik Vanger of the illustrious Vanger Corporation. Henrik has spent the last 26 years trying to solve the mystery of his missing niece and wants Blomkvist to take on a well paying, year-long assignment to figure it out. In return, Vanger will provide him with the information needed to resurrect Blomkvist’s name and professional reputation. When Mikael moves out to the remote town to take on this mammoth task, he realizes that the secrets surrounding Harriet Vanger involve just about every family member, and to uncover these details, he must get past their silence and politics.
When Lisbeth and Mikael finally combine forces, the truth seems near. But not before they unearth family corruption and crime.

This is an exciting, fast-paced story. The complex characteristics of Mikael and Salander, along with the Vangers, Mikael’s business partners and Salander’s friends keep you coming back for more. Not to mention the plot of Harriett’s disappearance! I love, love, love recurring characters and have already purchased the second book of the series to hopefully start tonight. Unfortunately, Larsson passed away in 2004 which means that his literary legacy really does end when the final page is turned.

Freedom - Jonathan Franzen

2010-10-25T12:31:00.006-04:00

It's been 8 years since I read "Corrections" by Jonathan Franzen. Though I don't remember specifics (this is pre-blog), I know I was enthralled with his characters, their unique personalities and how they interacted. It was funny. And touching.
"Freedom," his first novel since, does not disappoint.

Patty is married to Walter. She came from a crazy childhood and escaped her damaging family by becoming a phenomenal basketball player. She met Walter in college. He, a very serious law-student, roomed with a rock star, Richard. Throughout their life, both Walter and Patty have a love/hate relationship with Richard.

As they raise their two children in Midwest suburbia, Patty loses herself. Her passion, drive, goals. Walter struggles as he has always been infatuated with his beautiful wife, and yet he can't reach her. Their oldest child, Joey, moves in with the neighbors which in her mind, defines Patty as a failed mother. Walter makes a career change and starts obsessing over the preservation of a rare bird while Patty spins out of control. Joey moves far away and continues to defy the boundaries set in front of him. A struggling marriage. Teenage children. Getting older. These themes resonate throughout the novel.

The family character development is so granular, that despite how crazy and dark they all seem to be, you love them just as you would your own family. I couldn't help but see some of my friends and loved ones in each of their personalities, including myself. That coming-of-age time when we think we have life figured out, only to learn that we really know nothing at all. It's painful to watch Patty, Walter, Richard and Joey go through these same realizations, yet almost comforting knowing that no one's life is always roses and sunshines.

I really liked this book. Oprah named it to her book club (and he accepted this time - whereas he asked her to rescind the offer for "The Corrections"). My family has all read this book which has sparked a healthy discussion at various dinner tables. The one thing I struggled with was understanding Patty. The other characters - I got them. I know their reasons and how they became the people they were. But Patty wasn't linear - I couldn't look at the end result and work backwards to determine what factors drove her to be that woman. Maybe that's what makes her the most interesting. She's unpredictable.

In the end, Franzen captured my attention. I finished the book over a week ago and yet have thought of the Berglund family often since then. That's a sure fire sign of a good book.

Still Missing - Chevy Stevens

2010-10-01T10:03:00.003-04:00

Haunted. That's the feeling that crept into me as I read and completed this book.

Annie, a young realtor, is closing up an open house and preparing to meet her boyfriend for dinner when a man approaches her. Believing he is interested in the house, she lets her guard down just long enough for him to pull out a gun. He forces her into his van. When she wakes up, she is in a cabin. All the doors are locked from the outside. The windows won't break. Cabinets are locked. There is no escape. There are no weapons. She's been kidnapped and has no idea why or how she'll survive.

As Annie works with her psychiatrist to work through the year+ she spent living with "The Freak," she tells the story of her abduction. How he controlled her. Hit her. Raped her. How she's embarrassed for what she did to survive. How she escaped. How she still doesn't feel safe and maybe for good reason.

This book is frightening. Graphic. Scary. Captivating. Haunting. I couldn't put it down, but didn't want to read it when I was alone. The details of what she went through are tough to read but the story sits with me. Maybe I'll think twice about running in the dark from now on.

The Hidden Man - David Ellis

2010-10-01T09:40:00.002-04:00

Jason Kolarich lost his wife and child in a tragic car accident. Still blaming himself for choosing work over his family, he spends his days going through the emotions in somewhat of a catatonic state. He's awoken from this when a man called Mr. Smith enters his office. He offers $30,000 for him to defend a man accused of murder. The defendant is Jason's childhood friend, Sammy, who is accused of killing Griffin Perlini, who was arrested for abducting and murdering his 2 year old sister.

Jason takes the case but has more than just this trial on his mind. Mr. Smith demands an acquittal and is willing to cause physical damage to Jason's brother to ensure his wishes are met. Jason must protect his family, defend Sammy and find out the identity of Mr. Smith. The best defense for Sammy is to prove that Perlini murdered his sister, gaining sympathy and justification from the jury. But the case been unsolved for 26 years...Jason has 3 weeks.

This is a good mystery novel. Ellis builds the story slowly with enough mini-climactic points throughout to keep the reader engaged. The ending is full of twists that though somewhat predictable, wrap the novel up nicely.

Ice Bath

2010-09-20T21:12:00.013-04:00

Yes, I realize that this is the 2nd running-themed post in a row. On what is supposed to be an exclusive book blog. If this keeps up, I'll have to start another blog. And get a new title. Decisions. Decisions.

But tonight I took an ice bath. And that, my dear, is blog-worthy. I'll start from the beginning.

The Nike Women's Marathon is less than a month away. I haven't been diligent in my training. The reasons sound like excuses so we won't get into them. But this last month is crucial. I am confident that I am in the best running shape of my life. But the same brain that possesses that confidence, also casts doubt on whether I can do 26.2 on October 17th. It's a mental game and in these last few weeks, I need to stick to my plan so that I am ready in both mind and body to complete the race.

This past weekend, my plan was to run a 4 mile tempo run on Friday, 5 miles on Saturday, 16 on Sunday. Normally my long runs are on Saturday, but I had a softball tournament that started at 10am, so I swapped for Sunday. Who knew that the tournament would be my demise.

I have played with this team for 4+ years. We do it for fun and usually aren't very good. But this year, we weren't just good, we were great. We dominated the league and had high hopes to take the tournament trophy. But in game 2, we lost our first game. Given the double elimination format, we had to play all day to make it out of the loser's bracket and into the championship game. Seven games later, we ended up losing to the champion team, taking home the Runner's Up plaque. Now I consider myself an endurance athlete. I have stamina. But 8+ hours of softball, with just a 30 minute break did not do my body well. Swinging the bat, sprinting around the bases, diving and playing catcher (bend down, pick up ball, throw back. Repeat 497 times) left me completely wiped out.

Sunday comes and I wake up, fully ready for 16 miles. And then I try to get out of bed. My hips won't move. My back hurts. My arm isn't strong enough to hold a toothbrush. My quads feel like someone swapped the muscles with cinder blocks. Sixteen miles was out of the question. But there was always Monday. I ran 5 easy miles on Sunday to try to warm up the muscles. I even went and got a massage (dear god I could make that a habit). Monday comes around and I feel no better. Joints hurt and muscles are tight. Did I run a marathon on Saturday or just play softball? What the hell is wrong with me?

After work, I embark on my 16 mile journey, only to stop after 4 miles in pure exhaustion. I come home in tears. I am frustrated. Discouraged. I feel weak and like a failure. These last runs are so important and I let a softball tournament get in the way. After some counseling from the hubby, we rationally determined that the 23 mile run I have this weekend is the most important goal for this week. Sixteen means nothing in comparison. So, it was time to take drastic matters. I had to take an ice bath.

I have heard many long distance runners do this to force blood to the muscles and help them heal. It is supposed to speed up the recovery process. I sure hope it works.

I fill the tub with cold water. I enter the tub, wearing my swimsuit and a towel over my shoulders. Then my husband starts pouring in the ice. I scream. I wiggle. My legs twitch and shiver and shake. I feel the sky tumbling down (tumbling down). I remember hearing stories about sports teams and fraternities that forced people to get in barrels of ice water as part of a hazing routine. I now understand the punishment. Ten minutes was all I needed to endure. Ten long, drawn out, freezing minutes. But I made it through and immediately jumped into a warm robe, my legs numb with chill.

So now I sit. In my favorite tee shirt, socks and under the covers at 9pm trying to warm up. Tomorrow and Wednesday I will do light runs and on Friday, after work, I will run 23 miles. I will complete this run with fresh legs (hopefully) and a clear mind. Somehow I will force the devilish voice that tells me I can't do it, to shut the hell up. I took an ice bath to prep for this run. If I have to crawl home, at 10pm, in the dark...I will clock 23 miles.

Runnin'

2010-09-13T10:31:00.015-04:00

I write about books. I think it's just about the only interesting thing in my life for people to read about.

But as I was running on Saturday, I had a conversation in my head. I once heard someone say that smart people talk to themselves. Or was that crazy people?

Anyway, on Saturday, I talked to myself about the relationship I have with running and how it's become such a constant in my life. So I decided I would stray away from the books for one post and talk about running.

I started running in June 2005. I had just started a new job and a lot of my coworkers ran. They did long runs on Saturday and mid-week runs every Wednesday. I wanted to impress them. I wanted to be like them. So I joined the fitness center in our building and started running on the treadmill during my lunch hour. I'll never forget that first run. One mile over fifteen+ minutes, I was gasping for breath. But I felt like all all-star. I just ran a mile.
I always think back to those days when someone tells me they hate running or can't run. I know those feelings all too well. But by combining my dedication and the support and expertise of my running friends, I started to get better. I got to the point where I could run 4 miles at a time and stayed at that distance for months. I remember thinking "how many other people run 10+ miles a week? Keep this up and I will have the running ability of a gazelle and look like Gisele." Silly little beginning runner.
But I felt better and on February 8, 2006, I ran 5 miles straight. In the snow. On April 10th, 2006, I ran my first half marathon. And did another in May of that year. My times were slow. My body didn't look a lot different, but I had done something no one ever thought I could. Most of all me.
In early 2008, I finally convinced my husband to run. He has always been an athlete but thought running sounded awful. Famous last words. Dammit if he's not just better than me at running, he's better than just about everyone I know. Running changed his life too. He became health obsessed. He now eats meals designed for runners. He completes weight training regimes designed for runners. He has bright green running shoes and has run 26.2 miles in 3:08. That's a 7:11 pace. He's amazing. Watching him complete his first (of now 3) marathons, I was inspired. I cried as I saw him do something so difficult - watching him as he crossed the finish line in so much pain, but so much pride. I wanted that.
I reminded myself of one specific person who told me I could never do a marathon and whenever I felt discouraged during training, it was her words that motivated me. I raised money for Team Fox in honor of my dad. When I crossed the finish line, 26.2 miles later, I was overjoyed. As I jumped into my husbands arms and hugged my family and friends who had all traveled to support me, I felt like I was floating. Truly. It was my first experience of runner's high and if drugs make you feel that fantastic, it's a really good thing I never tried them. I'd be hooked.
Running is the type of friend that everyone should have in their life. It pushes me. Challenges me. Rewards me. And only positive things come from this friend. Confidence. Pride. Accomplishment. Growth. It helped me change myself for the better, both physically and mentally. And as every distance runner can attest to, I have some great moments that have come along with my dedication to running. Here are just a few:

I have run 8 miles, on 2 inches of ice in 4 degree weather.

I have cussed out mother nature, loudly, during a marathon where the last 3 miles were against a head wind.

I have fallen off a treadmill.

I have drank water from the girls bathroom faucet at Burger King.

I have run 12 miles on a treadmill without dying of boredom.

After my first half marathon, I had no one there to support me so hugged one of the volunteers and sobbed into her shoulder after I crossed the finish line.

I have dunked my head in the fountain of the Eiteljorg Museum when it was 96 degrees out.

I finished a marathon after having to hobble through 2 miles before pain killer kicked in.

I have thrown away countless shirts, gloves, headphones, fuel belts because I don't always think rationally when running long distances.

I have been hissed at by geese, startled by chipmunks and chased by a dog.

I once encountered 4 deer, in the middle of a snowy Monon Trail while I was running 12 miles by myself. It was like I was running in Narnia.

I have laid on the men's bathroom floor at Bub's, feeling like I was dying because of low blood sugar after a marathon.

I have used port-a-potties more times than I can count.

I received news that one of my best friends gave birth to a healthy baby boy while in the middle of a run (Corey).

I have gotten in multiple verbal spats with bikers on the Monon Trail.

I have licked my sweaty fingers to refuel my salt deficiency while running.

I have run with ice crystals growing on my face and eye lashes.

I have lied on the kitchen floor, with horrible stomach cramps after taking Imodium before a half marathon.

When I first started running, I ran in old sorority tshirts and pajama pants. I now have enough running clothes to outfit a track team.

I once almost refused a medal at the end of the race because I felt my performance wasn't worthy.

I have lost one toenail per marathon.

I have swallowed bugs.

I have had chaffing in places I didn't know existed.

Every time I hear the Jackson 5 on my iPod when running, I dance.

So now I am on marathon 4. This one is different. It's in San Francisco and not only will I have about 10 times as many people running besides me, but it's hilly. Really hilly. I live in Indiana. A curb is a hill to me. But I am going into this marathon with the plan to really enjoy it. I am blessed to be able to run and this race is my reward. Sure, I have goals. I am way too competitive not to. But I also know that I will be proud of myself regardless. My husband, brother and sister-in-law ill be there to cheer me on. Their support humbles me.

After this race, I'll go wherever running takes me. I want to run the marathon in Rome. I want to beat Sarah Palin's marathon time. I want to continue to improve my times and my body. I want to meet new running buddies and continue to inspire new runners. And I'll probably have more running antics to share through each journey.

The Giver - Lois Lowry

2010-09-07T08:58:00.005-04:00

I first read this book when I was 11 years old in Mr. Berry's Reading Class. I remember it being a much loved book from my youth. When I was strolling through the bookstore the other day, looking for a book on chickens, I saw "The Giver." The impulse shopper I am, it came home with me.

The society is of sameness - no poverty, no pain, no color, no hills, no weather, no true feelings. Everything is regulated by the government to take away free choice from the inhabitants. A man and woman are "matched" together, given a boy and girl child to raise. At age 12, the children are assigned their career assignment. Unruly babies, people who repeatedly break the rules and old men and women are "released."

Jonas is a 12-year old who is complacent and happy. He follows the rules and believes in them. When he is assigned as the new Receiver of Memory, his world changes. The society has one person who holds all the memories of the past - of days when there was war, pain, colors, sunshine, happiness, love. As Jonas undergoes his training and starts to receive the memories from the Giver, he realizes how life could be. Though there is pain, there is also love. Though there is war, there is also sunshine. When he finally discovers what it means to be "released," he and the Giver take action to bring memories back to society.

I love this book. It is surely written for young adults, but the way Lowry describes this Utopian world is stunning. Courageous Jonas and his empowered relationship with The Giver make the ignorant nature of the people living in this community intriguing.

Read this book. For the first time, or the second. It's beautiful.

Mockingjay - Suzanne Collins

2010-09-07T08:41:00.003-04:00

I hungrily awaited this book. The third of the "Hunger Games" trilogy, it has been a long time coming. On the release date, I marched over to Borders and hugged my own copy - knowing that I was about to dive into another masterpiece by Suzanne Collins.

I hate to say this...but I was disappointed. Don't get me wrong - every page kept my attention. Her prose was as magnetic as the previous two books (check out previous posts for reviews on "Hunger Games" and "Catching Fire"). But the ending left me wanting more and questioning how much I really ever knew the main characters.

"Mockingjay" started right where the second novel ended. I don't want to give too much away from book two, so will talk in general rather than specific details. Katniss has been chosen as the Mockingjay which represents the people rebelling against the Capital. As the figurehead for this new found power the rebels possess, she must take responsibility for the war and death that will result. The Gale-Peeta-Katniss love triangle takes on new variables, forcing her to choose the man she truly loves.

This trilogy that has been part of my life for the past 2 years, ends abruptly. The climax is seemingly anticlimactic. Collins seems to wrap a little bow around the ending but I believe readers will be left with questions and feeling unsettled.

All that being said, I still recommend this trilogy. Its unique concept, characters and direction are worth it. For those who want more - the series is being made into a movie and you can join discussion groups through the twitter handle @HGT_fansite

The Last Child - John Hart

2010-09-07T08:26:00.004-04:00

I have a big bookcase and right next to it, a stack of books awaits me. These are my "on deck" books. Ones I have bought on a whim or ones I have stolen from my mom's library. When I picked up "The Last Child"from the stack - I was eager to begin a novel that was easy to read and hard to put down. It didn't disappoint.

Nestled in a small town in North Carolina, 13-year old Johnny Merrimon spends his days searching for his twin sister. One year ago, she disappeared. While he visits home after home, even of those sex offenders in town, Detective Hunt keeps a watch on him and his mother. She's turned to drugs, alcohol and to an abusive relationship. Hunt's loyalty to the Merrimon family is fueled by his constant guilt of never finding the little girl. When another girl is snatched, Johnny's resolve to find his sister escalates. He recruits his best friend, Jack, to help him. Jack, the son of a policeman, is somewhat of a misfit in their class. He reasons with Johnny that his sister is most likely dead and to let it go, but yet never let's Johnny go on his crazy search alone.

What they find is much more than he bargained for. Murders. Child-molesters. More murders. The main character, Johnny, is a fantastic creation. Bravery and courage. Innocence. Love. It's easy to root for him to find his answers and have a life that he deserves.

This book is very fast paced. Some of the twists and turns are unreasonable, but not enough to take you out of the story. I look forward to reading more of Hart's novels.

Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall

2010-08-19T14:56:00.003-04:00

This book came recommended by lots of people. (Including one of my managers and a running friend on Twitter (@brad_king).

I am training for my 4th marathon. Sometimes my body is stronger than my mind. It's funny how your legs and your lungs are prepared for endurance runs, but your mind can sabotage it all. I was hoping that reading this book would get me geeked up about running again. And it did.

Chris (the author) was a pretty good runner until injury struck. In an attempt to not only find out how he could circumvent his injuries but also learn how to run free, he went to find the lost tribe of the Tarahumara. A group of people living in the mountains of Mexico, they are truly born to run. They wear sandals. They run for hours and days. They eat chia seeds. They are superhuman athletes with superior health. Yet you know nothing about them because they don't enter races.
Chris met a friend of the Tarahumara, Caballo Blanco, who told him the story of the tribe, introduced him into their culture and took Chris along with him as he planned an ultra-marathon in the hills of Mexico.
I found this non-fiction book compelling. Hell! I may even give barefoot running a try someday in Vibram's FiveFinger shoes. The section that gave the scientific reasoning behind why humans are born to run had me talking to my non-running friends on a Saturday night about why we are meant to be better runners that cheetahs. As a runner, every page fascinated me. Chris does a fantastic job of weaving in history, science, and characters to create an intriguing tapestry of running. These amazing athletes are all unique - women, men, senior citizens, Americans, Africans, Mexicans. They all run because they love it. They are free.
As Caballo plans a 50-mile race, attracting the best trail ultra runners to the Tarahumara country, the comradely amongst the field of runners inspired me. I found myself cheering them on through each page.

I loved this book. I want to embody the spirit of running. I don't want to run to just get it over with. I want to run because I can and because I am free. Call me corny. I don't care. As I embark on this next marathon in the hills of San Francisco, I want to enjoy every one of those 26.2 miles. I want to smile and laugh and cry and truly feel the rewards that running gives me.

America, America - Ethan Canin

2010-08-09T10:51:00.003-04:00

My best friend told me about "America, America." She must know of my love for politics and character development.

Corey Sifter is a 16-year old soccer player. Raised in a middle-class family, he is hired to man the grounds of the most prominent family in town, and is immediately thrown into the world of the wealthy. He works for Liam Meteray whose family has ruled their small town for decades. Liam is an altruistic man who sets out to change the American culture by backing presidential candidate, Henry Bonwiller. In the era of Nixon, Bonwiller's civic-minded disposition represents the working man. Despite Liam's hard work, their presidential campaign gets derailed by Bonwiller's adulterous and tragic actions.

Corey grows up to be the editor of the lead newspaper in town. He is happily married with children and takes pleasure in mentoring the talented newspaper intern, Trieste. The story of Henry Bonwiller lives on in the communicty for years to come and as Trieste researches the past and tries to uncover the hidden secrets, Corey revisits his role in the debacle.

This book is written with an interesting timeline - shooting from past to present quickly. It's poetic cadence bodes well for the small surprises along the way. The characters embody what I imagine the seventies to be and it's so easy to see how the past repeats itself, especially in politics.

I highly recommend.

The Maze Runner - James Dashner

2010-07-14T10:56:00.003-04:00

I consider myself an avid reader with diverse tastes. Recently I have found myself reading (and loving!) young adult fiction. Harry Potter. Hunger Games. The Book Thief. All amazing books. The Maze Runner falls into line as its targeted audience is definitely a younger demographic. However, it's a quick read which engages the reader from page one.

Thomas wakes up in an elevator. He knows his name, but has no memories of his past. When the doors open, he is thrown into a world of approximately 60 teen boys who live in their own little ecosystem. Food and supplies arrive each week in the same elevator, a new boy arrives once a month, a maze exists outside the four walls of their compound and dangerous "grievers" stalk the maze each night. Through this chaos, the boys have created order which allows them to survive. None of them understand what has happened to lead them to this place, nor how to get out.

Thomas immediately decides his role at the Glade is that of a Maze Runner. These boys spend all day running through the ever-changing walls of the maze in an attempt to find an exit. In addition to the physical exertion and mental capability it takes to navigate the maze, they must also get back to the Glade before the walls close. Otherwise, they'll be hunted by the Grievers.

Things at the Glade change drastically after Thomas' arrival and the boys must unite to make a decision on how to survive the new conditions, and how to find their way home.

I loved the unique story line, political undertones and characters involved in this story!

The Help - by Kathryn Stockett

2010-06-23T07:58:00.003-04:00

This book was referred to me by many friends and luckily, I could find a copy in my mom's library of books.

It is the story of three women, living in Jackson, Mississippi in 1962:

Skeeter - a white woman, just home from college. She's unmarried and a bit homely looking. While her friends throw themselves into Junior League and Bridge Club, Skeeter wants to be a writer. She was raised by a black maid who was her best friend, yet has mysteriously disappeared from her family's lives.

Aibileen - she's an older black woman, working for Elizabeth (one of Skeeter's best friends). She has raised and nurtured 17 white children in her day, including Mae Mobley, Elizabeth's little girl.

Minny - a black maid, and Aibileen's best friend. She has a feisty mouth on her and as a result, has trouble keeping a job in a city that is plagued with racism and inequality.

The three of these women share in the narration of this story. When Skeeter finds herself burdened by her friend's idea to create a separate bathroom in their homes for the black maids, she decides to write a book. With the help of Aibileen and Minny, she spends hours learning about how it feels to be on the other side - to be a black women, working for white families. To raise their children to love and to accept, only to end up working for them once they grow up. In Jackson, talk like this can get a black woman killed as the KKK runs rampant, therefore, they must keep this project a secret.

The character development in this novel reminds me of why, despite how much I love the political or law-themed thriller, nothing beats a good story. This book doesn't shy away from the seriousness of this time in American history. However, there is enough levity and humor to keep the book rolling through.

This is Stockett's first novel and I hope not her last.

Jury of One – David Ellis

2010-06-09T08:05:00.002-04:00

Another Ellis novel completed – and more Paul Riley and Shelly Trotter to boot!
Shelly is a nonprofit lawyer, who specializes in helping children when she is reeled into a murder case. Her former client, 17-year old, Alex, is accused of killing a cop, and it is up to Shelly to defend him. The crime is complex – involving drugs and gangs - but nothing is more complicated than when Shelly realizes Alex is her son. Raped as a teenager, Shelly gave up the boy for adoption. Now, as she tries to keep him off death row, she must face the one question that haunts her – did he do it?
The story is somewhat difficult to follow as the segmented pieces of the story start to fit together: Shelly, estranged daughter of the governor, rape victim, defending a cop killer. Alex: 17-year old, father of one, dealt drugs to white collar clientele, shot a cop in the face? Paul Riley, acclaimed attorney that helps Shelly out by funding her case and having feisty sex on the side. Ronnie: Alex’s foster brother who is also his best friend and seems to be constantly hiding something. Put these main characters together and you have one pretty engaging novel. When Shelly finally goes to trial, the pages turned themselves as I got deeper into the plot. Add in what seems to be a typical pattern of Ellis’, a huge twist at the end that throws everything you thought you knew into question, and you have yourself a great read. I’ll be back for more.

Eye of the Beholder - by David Ellis

2010-05-18T08:41:00.003-04:00

I have never read any books by David Ellis until now, but after finishing "Eye of the Beholder," I am grateful that there are three more waiting for me in my "on deck" stack of books.

The brutal murders of 5 girls at Mansbury College in 1989 brings together a collection of characters: Terry Burgos (killer), Paul Riley (prosecutor) and the Bentley family (wealthy, daughter is one of the victims, mother and father seem to have a mysterious involvement). Fast forward to 2005 - Terry is executed for the murders which seems to ignite a copycat killer. People start dying and the connection to the Burgos killings is unmistakable.

Though Riley has moved on and is now a partner in a prestigious law firm, he can't help but to be brought into the fold of the murders - they all seem to be connected to him.

First a suspect, then an integral part of the investigation, Paul is faced with opening up the 16-year old Burgos case which could jeopardize his entire career. Did he miss something in what seemed to be such an open and shut case? And how does he figure out what he missed quickly enough to stop these brutal murders from continuing?

This book is very fast-paced and quite complex. I loved the characters and after starting another Ellis book, realize that some of them are recurring in other books. I will admit, that finishing this book and then watching the Season Finale of Dexter (season 4), caused me to have nightmares. Too much scariness for this girl to handle!

The Miracle of Castel di Sangro: A Tale of Passion and Folly in the Heart of Italy, by Joe McGinniss

2010-04-27T08:08:00.004-04:00

I love book referrals (hint. hint.) and especially ones that I wouldn't normally find in the bestseller section at Borders. This gem, The Miracle of Castel di Sangro, was referred to me by my twitter friend, Daniel Incandela (@danielincandela). We met through social media simply by living in the same city and loving soccer. As a result, he suggested this wonderful book for me to read.

This is the true story of the Castel di Sangro 1996 soccer (il cacio) season. In a town of 5500 nestled in Italy amongst crazy weather patterns, this soccer team spent 15 years moving up the ranks until they hit the pinnacle, Series B. (For those who don't understand the European soccer structure, each season, teams are promoted and relegated to different leveled leagues based on their previous year's team standing). For a team from such a tiny city, with so few resources and really very little talent to be able to play in Series B - just one tier down from the top league- was unheard of. It caught the attention of fifty-four year old, American writer, Joe McGinniss. A lover of the sport, he moved to Castel di Sangro for the 9-month season to write his book about this amazing team.

The team had one goal - to maintain their status in Series B so not to be relegated back to C1. What Joe could have only dreamed of became reality. He was brought into the folds of the team as if he was their 12th man on the field. He ate every meal with the team, went to every practice, cheered them on at every game. He befriended each player, the coach, the managers. His love for the sport only heightened, and his love for the team and community of Castel di Sangro grew with every passing day.

The season was not without hardships and Joe learned very quickly that the team and city were embedded deeply into a political structure that determined many of the team decisions. Deaths, heartaches, arrests, injuries, wins and losses - this book kept my attention with every page.

The ending was not what I had hoped for the team or for Joe, but it was a brilliant story.

Ballad of the Whiskey Robber: A True Story of Bank Heists, Ice Hockey, Transylvanian Pelt Smuggling, Moonlighting Detectives, and Broken Hearts

2010-04-12T15:04:00.002-04:00

As evidenced by my last blog posting, I am becoming a frequent participant in all things social media. My latest book came from one of my favorite Twitter friends @danielincandela. He and I have become fast friends given our shared love of English soccer, books, and well....Twitter! He referred me to this non-fiction book and I loved it!

It's the true story of Attila Ambrus - a Romanian who fled to Hungary at the end of Communist rule. Using his charm and hard work, he earned a spot on the national hockey team as 3rd string goalie, i.e. janitor. Never missing a single practice, his dedication surely made up for his lack of talent. Needing to bring in more money, however, he turned first to illegal pelt smuggling. But with border control laws becoming more strict, he impulsively decided to rob a post office for fast cash. Once successful, he never looked back.

Attila grew up without means and yet craved the lifestyle of fast cars, women and gambling. Despite his large "earnings" in the thievery field, he rarely was able to hold on to much money as he spent it quickly and unwisely. However, even with his addiction to whiskey, he was able to turn his new talent into a profitable career through meticulous planning, charm and by taking advantage of the incompetent police force. After many successful robberies where he said please and thank you, and even brought the bank tellers roses, he earned the public's sympathy and trust. He was stealing from "the man" and yet was polite to those in the way. In the Hungarian turmoil during the 1990's, the Whiskey Robber became infamous.

Told in a jovial, lighthearted way, this story is entertaining and engaging. Never before have I rooted a criminal on more! Attila certainly captured my heart...

Scotty's Brewhouse - Social Media Happy Hour

2010-03-22T21:30:00.003-04:00

Other than today, there has been only one time I have ever used this blog to discuss something other than books (and that time I talked about movies). I don't have kids and though my life consists of work, running, family, friends and dogs, I am not foolish enough to think that any of it is exciting enough for which people might tune in.

However, tonight I attended the Social Media Happy Hour at Scotty's Brewhouse in downtown Indy. Lately, I have taken a big interest in social media. I was always a big proponent of Facebook and Twitter but given the nature of my job, the fact that my company just made a major acquisition of a company dedicated to social, and that I gave a lecture at DPU about Social Networking, it's become a passion of mine. So when a Social Media Happy Hour was announced at one of my favorite bars downtown including free appetizers and a "Swarm" badge from FourSquare, I was committed. And anyone who knows me knows that when I commit, I don't just attend, I become a part of the event. After some strong recruitment efforts, we had a great group of individuals "checking in" at Scottys, drinking beer, networking, laughing and enjoying the company of other people that either loved social media, loved Scotty's 7 Tidals Dip, or just wanted to meet new people.

It was great fun and I hope that other organizations take the lead to host similar events. Nothing makes a Monday more fun than knowing a cold beer, good food and interesting people are waiting for you. I came. I saw. I swarmed. So if I wasn't dressed in my jammies and about ready to hit the sack, I would raise a glass to Scotty's, to Social Media Happy Hours, to Liz, Dawn, Megan, Daniel, and Nathan and to businesses everywhere who are making a commitment to invest their marketing budget into social media. It's not going away...and neither am I.

Vanished by Joseph Finder

2010-03-22T08:39:00.003-04:00

Nick & Roger Heller were born in a very privileged and wealthy family. Their father, however, was convicted of investment fraud when they were young and has spent the majority of his life in prison. Nick is a Special Forced trained operative turned investigator. It has been years since he and Roger got along, but he comes to the rescue when his nephew Gabe calls him begging for help. Roger and his wife, Lauren, were on a date when she was attacked. She wakes up in the hospital, concussed and her husband has vanished. There are no signs of him anywhere and it is up to Nick to put the puzzle pieces together.

On the surface, it appears that Roger has been kidnapped. But as Nick digs deeper, secrets of infidelity become apparent. In addition, it appears that Roger uncovered some unflattering information about his employer and threatened to blow the whistle. What follows is a series of twists and turns that were sometimes hard to follow.

Though I couldn't put the book down, I was a bit disappointed in the ending. It seemed slightly complicated and unrealistic. However, I think Finder does a great job building characters and complex plots that keep the reader coming back for more. I look forward to reading more of his novels.

Darkness Take My Hand - Dennis LeHane

2010-03-08T09:56:00.002-05:00

I loved the book & movie, "Shutter Island." I watched and loved "Mystic River" and "Gone Baby Gone." All stories by Dennis LeHane.

"Darkness Take My Hand" was written in 1996 and is part of a series LeHane wrote with two recurring characters - Patrick Kenzie and Angie Generro. Set in Boston, they are private detectives with a unique relationship.

When they are hired by Diandra Warren to help figure out who is threatening her and her son, they are catapulted into the path of a serial killer. When Kara Rider, a childhood acquaintance of both Angie and Patrick, is found crucified, the investigation intensifies. The main suspect is in prison and they are left with very little clues as to who is committing the murders. They bring in their mafia connections in an attempt to help solve the mystery but it isn't long before they realize that the murders and suspects are all tied to their childhood, families and hometown neighborhood. The clock is ticking and both Angie and Patrick are the killer's next targets.

Meanwhile, Angie struggles with her soon-to-be ex-husband and Patrick tries to save the relationship he has with Grace, a med student who is appalled by the amount of violence Patrick has brought into her life.

Suspenseful. Captivating. Thrilling. LeHane has done it again! Anyone who reads this blog knows I love books with recurring characters so I can't wait to read more of the Patrick & Angie saga.

Final Detail by Harlan Coben

2010-02-24T15:50:00.007-05:00

My boy, Harlan Coben, once again didn't disappoint in my latest installment of Myron Bolitar novels. (It appears that this book takes place just before "Darkest Fear" in case anyone wanted to read them in sequence). Myron is on a Caribbean island, sulking away with a gorgeous news anchor when the ever reliable Win, his best friend, appears on a yacht. There is trouble at home and it involves Esperanza.

Rewind - Myron and Esperanza run a sports agency. He is a charming, witty, former athlete that dreams of settling down with the right woman and can never say no to getting involved in detective work. She is a gorgeous woman, former wrestler, and is bi-sexual. Her past wrestling partner, Big Cyndi, works for the two of them and Win handles the finances. He is also never one to shy away from violence if it will protect "the family" during times of crisis.

This time, Esperanza has been charged in the murder of one of their biggest clients, baseball player and former fraternity brother of Myron's, Clu Haid. As if those story lines aren't interconnected enough, add in a lesbian affair with a married woman plus multiple appearances at a questionable dancing establishment with 10-year old secrets and you have the recipe for a perfect story. Fast paced, easy read, good twists and some of my favorite characters.

Darkest Fear by Harlan Coben

2010-02-16T20:45:00.004-05:00

When I told my mom that I needed to raid her bookshelves, it should have been no surprise to me that she presented me with a grocery bag full. Bliss.

First up, Darkest Fear by Harlan Coben. It's been awhile since I have read something from him but within a few pages, I remembered why I like him so much. I love mystery novels that have reoccurring characters. Even if I don't read the books in sequence, there is something engaging about knowing Myron Bolitar, Win and Esperanza. Myron used to be a star basketball player, worked for the government and now runs his own sports agency. When a past flame reenters his life, Emily, he knows it can be nothing but trouble.

Emily and Myron were in love in college but she left him and soon after married his biggest rival on the court. His heart was broken but the night before the wedding, they had one last fling. Now, 10 years later, Emily needs his help. Her son, Jeremy, has a rare disease and needs a bone marrow transplant. There is only one registered matching donor in the country and he has disappeared. It's a matter of life and death, and oh, by the way...Jeremy is Myron's son.

As Myron starts to investigate, he uncovers some very disturbing truths. The donor seems to be involved in a torturous murder plot that dates back years. The story is a quick read, unique and suspenseful. I loved trying to figure out the plot and twists and as always, love reading Myron's sarcastic quips.

The Secret of Everything by Barbara O'Neal

2010-02-08T09:50:00.002-05:00

My lovely colleague loaned this book to me. Set in New Mexico, it is the story of 30-something Tessa as she journeys through her past to make sense of her present.

Tessa was a happy, carefree hiking guide when she experience a horrifying accident that has left her both physically and emotionally damaged. After living with her beloved dad during recovery, she decided to travel to Las Ladronas, NM where she grew up as a child. She has very little memory of the town but thinks that it may be a good setting for a new hiking and cooking tour. As she explores the village and surrounding areas, she meets Vince. He is a single father of three and works in Search & Rescue. Their chemistry is undeniable but both are very hesitant about getting too involved.

When Tessa meets the owners of the Green Gate Gardens, she knows immediately that it is the place she lived up until age four. Memories come flooding back to her yet instead of answering her questions, they only give birth to new ones. Her past isn't what she thought it was and the quest for information seems too painful for her to go through alone.

I really liked this book. The characters were so engaging and I loved the relationships between Vince and Tessa, Tessa and her father, and Vince and his little girls. The book was a quick read and was somewhat magnetic. I kept coming back for more. Not to mention, there is a breakfast recipe in every chapter! Thanks, Karla, for the referral!

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

2010-02-03T16:12:00.004-05:00

It isn't often that I read a book that really touches my soul. I had this same feeling when I finished reading "The Road" and "Little Bee," and now can add "The Book Thief" to their exclusive club. I read the final pages while in the middle seat of a plane, strangers to both sides and tears streaming down my face. It is a beautiful story.

The narrator of The Book Thief is someone we are all familiar with but if you are reading this, you have yet to make its acquaintance. The narrator first met the main character, 9-year old Liesel, when he takes her little brother away. He runs into her a few more times throughout her life and despite wanting to stay away, he is drawn to her. When he attends her brother's funeral, he watches as she steals her first book from the gravedigger. Thus starts her successful career in thievery, specifically of the book variety.

Her father was carted away as a communist, her mother dropped her off at a foster home and she is all alone when she starts her new life in a suburb of Munich during the 1930s. Her foster father, Hans, holds her every night as she awakens from her nightmares. His wife, Rosa, puts her to work and despite her cold demeanor, she wants to shield Liesel from harm. As she starts to come into a somewhat normal childhood, she meets her best friend, Rudy. The two of them take her stealing habit to a new level as they steal food to stave off hunger. Liesel is painstakingly taught to read by Hans in the wee hours of the morning. As she finally starts to adjust to a relatively normal life, Hans brings home a Jew to live with them. Max becomes part of Liesel's family and one of her best friends. But his mere existence threatens everything important to her.

As Death narrates the novel, it is apparent how much he wishes he wasn't part of her life. Hitler keeps him very busy but he manages to bring pain to Molching, Germany and to Liesel's life. As the story unfolds, stolen books serve as the nucleus of the novel, bringing together families, friends and communities in a very tough time.

This book is wonderful. Supposedly, it was written for the young-adult demographic which surprises me. I think the dark subject matter and complex story lines would appeal more to adults. Regardless, read this book. It is a story I will keep with me for a long time.

Eating the Dinosaur by Chuck Klosterman

2010-01-26T19:46:00.005-05:00

It's hard not to think of Chuck Klosterman as a close, personal friend given that we met in Venice when he was on his honeymoon and we sat next to each other at dinner (see the back of his head to the right). After many glasses of wine, I finally spoke to him and told him that his novel Downtown Owl, was wonderful, yet quite tragic. We haven't kept touch since but I have been really busy and just hope he doesn't take it personally.

Eating the Dinosaur isn't fiction - it is a series of thought-provoking essays. The topics range from why people give interviews, Waco, TX, Nirvana, reality TV, ABBA, football plays, athletes and more. He researches his subjects, gives his own views, interviews people and then moves on to other topics without so much as a warning. The essays are fascinating and though some topics are more interesting than others (seriously, I really really tried to pay more attention to understanding the football plays but just couldn't get into it the way I could the ABBA chapter) each one leaves you pondering. It kind of reminded me of Malcom Gladwell's "Tipping Point" except not centralized around one theme. But like TP, I take away some key learnings and much to consider.

My good friend, Chuck, is a great writer and I look forward to the other things he will turn out in his (hopefully) long and illustrious career as an author.

The Last Promise by Richard Paul Evans

2010-01-15T07:54:00.005-05:00

My mother-in-law gave me this book for Christmas. Because of our recent trip to Italy, she thought I would enjoy reading a book set in Florence. She was right! I loved reading about the Uffizi gallery and the neighboring piazzas, the rolling hills and beauty of Tuscany, the wineries, the Arno River. I felt like I was back in my favorite Italian city and didn't want the story to end.

Eliana is a transported American living in Tuscany with her husband, sister-in-law and son. Her husband travels all of the time leaving her to care for her severely asthmatic boy alone. Her husband also has a mistress in every city. Though Eliana knows this and would like to leave him and return to the States, Maurizio threatens to take her child away from her if she does. She is living in a loveless marriage and feels imprisoned

Ross moves to Italy and ends up working for the Uffizi Gallery as an apprentice tour guide. He rents the open apartment at Eliana's winery. When he sees her for the first time, he is taken aback by her beauty and grace. The two forge a friendship at first, but the attraction and connection cannot be denied.

As their love story unfolds, it is not without obstacles. As Ross deals with being in love with a married woman, she must struggle with what's best for her son and what's best for her family. When Maurizio starts to uncover their secret, he learns a bit more about why Ross really left the U.S. to come to Italy. Is Ross really the man Eliana thinks he is?

This was a fun book, and a total change from what I normally read. I loved reading about Italy and it restored my love for that city.

Amazing Grace: A Dog's Tale by Dan Dye and Mark Beckloff

2010-01-11T09:27:00.006-05:00

This was one of my stocking stuffers from my husband. We are big fans of "The Three Dog Bakery" in Broadripple so I was thrilled to read about how the franchise started. Little did I know I would also fall in love with the main character, Grace the Great Dane.

Mark and Dan were roommates who knew they wanted to be entrepreneurs. Mark has two dogs, Dottie and Sarah and Dan had just lost his dog and best friend, Blue. When he happens across an albino, deaf, female Great Dane puppy, his heart immediately heals. He brings her home and calls her Gracie. The adventures of these three dogs are hilarious. It isn't quite like "Marley and Me" because these dogs just aren't quite as crazy and destructive. But the stories of their dog-dynamics, making friends with neighborhood pups, and learning how to function without the sense of hearing are adorable, funny and endearing.

As both Mark and Dan struggle with their jobs and a lack of money, they face another problem. Gracie won't eat. After trying everything, Dan decides to try his hand in the kitchen. Whipping up recipe after recipe to appeal to her sensitive palate, he finally hits his stride. Soon enough, they have dedicated their lives to making all-natural, homemade treats for dogs.

If you have ever been to the store, you know that their treats look edible enough for humans and their dog accessories are second to none. Harper and Dexter are currently wearing new collars from Three Dog and couldn't be any cuter.

This book is a quick read and one that warms your soul. It made me laugh and cry and made me hug my dogs a few extra times this weekend.

Crazy for the Storm: A Memoir of Survival by Norman Ollestad

2010-01-07T21:09:00.004-05:00

Amazon has some amazing technologies to track the types of books their subscribers are interested in. I understand these web analytic trends much better given my new career and am constantly impressed with how they hit the target so often. A few months ago, my husband got an email from them advertising this book, "Crazy for the Storm." He and my mom both have read this book and I closed the back cover myself this evening.

The premise would make anyone pick up the book - the true story of a 12-year old boy who survives a plane crash. Norman Ollestad is in a small plane with his dad, his dad's girlfriend and the pilot when the plane goes down on the side of a mountain. Covered in snow and ice, Norman must find a way to survive the elements and find safety.

The book is structured so that every other chapter describes the crash and the alternating chapters flash back to his childhood, his family, his friends and his talents. Norman is a true athlete - excelling specifically in surfing, skiing and hockey. His dad is his biggest supporter as well as the one that pushes Norm when he would rather be playing with his friends. It's no doubt that when challenged with the most difficult task in a lifetime, it is these lessons that propel Norman to fight for his life.

It's a great book - I read it quickly and was drawn to each page. Here is my one complaint. I am not a surfer, have been skiing once and the last time I even thought about the word hockey, I was getting the cheerleaders' autographs at a Peoria Riverman game while eating cotton candy. Ollestad writes as if we have all been down slopes with ruts and gates and gullys as well as understand tunnels and fall lines. I wanted so much to picture every move he made as he descended the mountain but had a hard time getting past the terms I didn't know. I wish he had spent a bit more time writing in layman's terms, or providing a glossary. Other than that, it is a great read and an amazing story.

Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks

2010-01-04T07:59:00.003-05:00

This is a lovely story. It is 1665 in Derbyshire Village, England. Anna Frith has lost her husband in a mining incident and supports her two children by working in the rectory. When the 17th-century plague is carried from London to this remote village, her life, as well as the lives of everyone around her, is changed forever.

Bonding with the rector, Michael, and his wife, Elinor, Anna sets out to do her part in caring for the sick and strengthening the healthy. When the lord of the village takes his family and runs from the village to avoid becoming ill, Michael calls upon the villagers to stay put and fight the disease rather than flee and potentially spread it further. When more neighbors lie in the ground than walk above it, the will and testaments of those that survive are challenged. Anna, Elinor and Michael must do what they can to control the spread of the disease whilst preventing those who have suffered the greatest losses from turning to violence, drink, superstition and witchery. As their relationships develop, Anna must evaluate the inexpressible feelings she has towards Michael and Elinor.

This is a book based on historical facts and the way that Brooks develops ordinary characters dealing with extraordinary circumstances is brilliant. It is the second book of hers that I have read and she is an author I will continue to follow.

Until The Real Thing Comes Along - Elizabeth Berg

2009-12-29T08:02:00.005-05:00

My mom loaned this book to me and after the last, long one I read, I was eager to start a short, quick read novel. As any follower of this blog knows, I never quit a book. Good thing that rule exists for this book because I was so frustrated with the main character through the first 70 pages, I wanted to throw the book across the room.

Patty is 36 years old, single and desperate to have a baby. Her biological clock is ticking so loud I am pretty sure I could even hear it. She is in love with her ex-boyfriend (Ethan -who is gay) and is depressed, whiny and the only parties she really seems interested in attending are her own pity parties. (Cut to me throwing the book across the room.) I wanted to scream at her and tell her to buck up, make a life for herself and stop wallowing!

However, the book gets better when Ethan agrees to have a baby with her. Certainly this comes with some obvious complications but as the two try to navigate pregnancy and the complex emotions going along with living together, preparing for a baby, and being totally incompatible (she just plays for the wrong team), the book becomes much more enjoyable to read. I'd hang in there if I were you - it is an easy read, sometimes quite witty and overall, a decent book. Just try not to strangle Patty when she is in one of her moods early on in the book!

I Know This Much Is True - Wally Lamb

2009-12-21T08:24:00.003-05:00

I have been absent for awhile and it isn't because I haven't had time to post, it is because I haven't had anything to blog about. I started "I Know This Much Is True" weeks ago. It isn't a short book but I attribute the amount of time it took me to finish this book to lack of time and lack of running (I get a lot of reading done on the treadmill).

Alas, I finished the book this weekend and so hopefully will get back to a more frequent blogging consistency.

This book is my friend Natalie's favorite book. The author, Wally Lamb, also is friends with my uncle. Two good enough reasons for me to embark on the journey alongside Dominick and Thomas Birdsey. Identical twins, yet living very different lives, this is the story of their life. It begins at the pinnacle moment when Thomas cuts his hand off in a library to try to stop the Persian Gulf War and as a sacrifice to God. Thomas is skitzophrenic and believes that God speaks through him. He also believes that the CIA is after him and has planted spy devices in his bloodstream. Dominick takes care of Thomas but after this incident realizes that he must first take care of himself.

All of the characters in their life (stepfather, Ray, their mother, Leo, Dessa, Dr. Patel, Dr. Sheffer, Joy, Angie, Ralph) are fully developed and you grow to be a part of their lives throughout the book. The story accounts for the present, flashbacks often to the past and even delves into the family history. It touches upon mental illness, domestic abuse, dark family secrets, racism. It is a book about family, love, parenting and finding the center to keep grounded. The characters are all flawed, but decent human beings and as a reader, I pulled for them throughout the book.

It may be a daunting book given the length but I recommend it to anyone.

Push by Sapphire

2009-11-20T08:46:00.002-05:00

You've heard of the movie "Precious." You may not know you have...but when Mariah Carrey gets raving reviews for a movie after her bust in "Glitter," you pay attention. The movie "Precious" is based on this book - "Push."

Told in first person by Clareece Precious Jones, this is the story of a 16 year old girl, pregnant with her second child by her own father and living in Harlem with her abusive mother. She is illiterate and obese. Her father rapes her. Her mother force-feeds her and molests her. Her first child has Down's Syndrome and she gets kicked out of school for being pregnant for the second time. She doesn't want to live, but doesn't know how to die.

Her only hope comes from an alternative school taught by Ms. Blue Rain. Here, Precious learns to read and she, along with the other students in the class, are encouraged to journal their lives. Precious finds a way to care for her newborn son, escape her family and finds refuge in the all too similar stories of her battered classmates. Ms. Rain becomes a motherly figure to these students and though life doesn't magically become bright, sunny and easy...it does become hopeful.

Written the way that Precious speaks, it is a bit difficult at times to get through some of the sentences (I found that reading them aloud helps - although don't recommend doing this on a treadmill in public as they are sometimes profane). But that isn't what my mom was talking about when she said that this was a hard book to read. The matter-of-fact way Precious describes the abuse is brutally honest and hauntingly disturbing.

It was a great book - a hard book - a dark book. I am eager to see the movie.

I'm Not Scared by Niccolò Ammanit

2009-11-17T07:55:00.003-05:00

I tweet. Truthfully, for those that don't tweet, I think Twitter is misunderstood. One thing I love about it is that I am able to "follow" news, sports, celebrities and of course, some of my favorite authors. Chris Cleave, author of "Little Bee" and "Incendiary," once tweeted about a book he read called "I'm Not Scared." If one of my favorite authors refers a book, I read it...and this one I read cover-to-cover in one night.

The main charactor is 9-year old Michele who lives in a very remote village in Italy with just 4 other families. All of the children play together and on one hot day, after losing a race, he must accept the "forfeit" handed down by the leader of their small group of friends. As they come upon a dark, scary abandoned house, Michele must go in alone and jump out the back window. He does what he must, but when he lands in the yard below the window, he sees a small boy at the bottom of a large hole. Afraid to tell the others of this discovery, he leaves only to return the next day to do some investigating alone. The boy is alive and is the same age as Michele. He is chained up, dirty, afraid and doesn't seem to be making much sense.

Michele isn't sure what to do but he knows that he definitely needs to talk to his father. However, before he can, he learns that his family is more involved with this boy than he would like to believe.

The book is so well written - the pages turn themselves and the characters are built so naturally. It is a wonderful book and one I recommend to anyone.

Driftless by David Rhodes

2009-11-11T08:16:00.002-05:00

I was referred to this book by my boss. You always read books that your boss tells you to and I am so glad I did.

Driftless was Rhodes' first novel in 30 years after a traumatic motorcycle accident. It is the story of a handful of characters in Words, WI. July Montgomery who, though private, seems to be an integral part of everyone's lives. Olivia who spends the majority of her life in a wheelchair with her sister as her caretaker. Winifred - the pastor who experiences a oneness with God, has very strict values and resents her father. Jacob - a loner who falls in love with Winifred. Gail, an aspiring musician that works in a plastic factory, plays in a band and questions her sexuality. Cora and Graham - a hardworking farm family who become whistle blowers against the American Milk Corporation. Rusty and Maxine - who learn to accept the Amish and face their family history.

Their lives intertwine with each other and each one must rely on another when faced with challenges. Add in a roving cougar, a blizzard, some break-ins, tragic financial losses at a casino and a miracle cure, this book keeps you engaged. The story isn't about one event, or even one particular character. It is about community and courage and kindness.

A Widow for One Year – John Irving

2009-10-16T13:24:00.003-04:00

My friend Lindsay recommended this book to me. I didn’t know what it was about when I picked it up but it didn’t take long for me to get hooked.
The book is divided into three parts – the summer of 1958 when Ruth Cole is 4 years old. Her parents are in a dysfunctional marriage that was never healthy, and certainly not after the tragic deaths of their two boys. Marion, Ruth’s mother, is truly a zombie and her husband, Ted, a famous children’s author, entertains many woman as his lover. Ruth walks in on her mother having sex with 16 year old Eddie O’Hare who is Ted’s intern for the summer. In the second part, Ruth is 36 years old and it is 1990. She is a well known author and Eddie has been asked to introduce her at one of her readings. It is the first time they have seen each other since she was 4 years old. Eddie’s love affair with Marion ended too soon, but she has never left his heart. Ruth is on a European book tour and is contemplating marrying her editor, an older man. Her relationship with her father is strained, but she loves him. The third part, age 41, Ruth and Eddie are a big part of each other’s life. Ruth is a widow and Eddie has still not gotten over Marion who neither has seen since 1958.
The book goes in many different directions and at times, I wondered what the author was doing. It wasn’t the fastest of reads, but I kept coming back to it. It wasn’t until I completed the book that I truly appreciated it. The way things came full circle and gave closure to many of the open story lines was perfect. It is a book I have thought of often since finishing.

People of the Book – by Geraldine Brooks

2009-10-16T13:21:00.002-04:00

I was referred to this book by one of my new coworkers and am so glad I read it.
At the nucleus of this novel is the Sarajevo Haggadah – which is one of the earliest Jewish religious books containing images. When this book is found in 1992, Hanna Heath, a book expert and restorer, is called in to examine it. Upon her first encounter with the book, she finds a few clues that help illuminate the journey this religious volume took to get to where it is now. Every other chapter is the story of Hannah as she tries to research what these clues mean, falls in love with a complicated librarian, and wrestles with her very dark relationship with her mother. The other chapters dive into independent stories of the book and how each clue (a white hair, a wine stain, an insect wing, etc) helps tell the story of this book. These narratives span from 1480 to 1940 and tell of the struggles Jews have had throughout every decade, and the harrowing tale of how this book survived.
It is a fascinating novel and the pages turn themselves. The story comes together at the end and brings together different religions as well as closes the book (sorry for the obvious pun) on the Haggadah’s long and difficult expedition to safety.

Sworn to Silence – by Linda Castillo

2009-09-22T15:38:00.003-04:00

This book is a thriller. It is fast-paced and suspenseful and downright scary (i.e. – I wouldn’t take the dogs outside at night by myself and made my husband go to the basement with me when I did laundry). But it is good. Very good.

Kate Burkholder is the Chief of Police in Painter’s Mill, OH – a town of about 5000 with a decent percentage of the population being Amish. Born Amish, she left when she was a teenager after a horrifying crime struck her and her family. Sworn to secrecy of what happened that day, Kate turned to law enforcement and never looked back until 16 years later, when similar crimes start popping up in the small community. A serial murderer is attacking her town and she must find a way to come to terms with her past and catch him before he strikes again and again. John is a veteran cop in Columbus, OH that has done something to rub his superiors the wrong way – namely that he went rogue after the murder of his wife and two girls. Now, a year later, he finds himself at a desk job barely holding onto a paycheck. As punishment, his boss sends him to Painter’s Mill to help solve the gruesome murders. In addition to John, many others surface to help the young, inexperienced, female, formerly Amish Chief of Police and Kate finds herself amongst a political mess. Meanwhile, women keep dying and she wrestles with revealing the secret she has kept for so many years – does she protect her family or does she risk everything to stop the killings?

Glover’s Mistake by Nick Laird

2009-09-17T16:17:00.004-04:00

Walking through Borders with my mom, she came in with a full list of books she wanted and I just perused the aisles. Being slightly more impulsive than my well-prepared mother, I saw this book, picked it up, read the jacket and bought it.
This is the story of three people in London: David, a thirty-five year old teacher who blogs, and at one point wanted to be an artist. He is a bit pudgy, very insecure and lives with James who is twenty-five, a bartender, very fit, a bit religious, more confident but hasn’t quite settled into his own yet. Enter Ruth – David’s former art teacher that he runs into while at a gallery where her work is represented. She’s a forty-five, mysterious, sexy, thrice divorced artist. David remembers the crush he had on her then and as they reconnect, ignites the old flame he held for her. When she meets James, she is immediately attracted to him and wants David’s advice on their future potential as a couple. The love triangle ensues.
As David struggles with being a friend to James and Ruth, while falling in love with Ruth and beginning to despise James, James relies on David to be the friend and roommate he always has been and Ruth deals with a past lover (Jess – female) as well as her hippie daughter while her relationship with young James blossoms. The book is filled with art references (over my head!) and though very interesting, also quite dark. While reading, the characters start to come apart and become worse people than they were in the beginning. I finished the book and though I liked it, wasn’t sure I’d give it a high recommendation. But days later, I was still thinking about it and how it reflects human character and the actions people are willing to take to get what they want. It demonstrates just how much love can blind you to reality. So I will recommend this book – not to those of you who are trying to get back into reading for the first time since college and need a fast-paced book to jump start you, but to those who appreciate an interesting story, unique plot line and of course, London.

Catching Fire – Suzanne Collins

2009-09-09T09:43:00.002-04:00

After over a year in waiting, Collins’ sequel to “Hunger Games” was released on September 1st. I pre-ordered it from Amazon thinking it would arrive in my mailbox exactly on that day and much to my disappointment, it was four days late. As soon as I read page one, however, my frustration was eliminated and I was fully back in the world of Katniss, Gale, Peeta, the 13 Districts, the Capital and the Hunger Games. The second installment of the trilogy starts exactly where “Hunger Games” left off and for those who haven’t read the first, I can’t say much about this book without giving away the ending of the first. What I can tell you is that this did not disappoint. Collins’ imagination only takes us further into the political climate of a government that continues to oppress its people for the sake of power and control. This time, however, the people are starting to rebel against the cruelty of the HG and how they affect families, children and the overall culture in which they must survive. When I tell people about this series, I notice a few grimaces as I describe the story of young adults who are forced to kill each other in a “only one can survive” game each year while the country watches in entertainment and horror as if they were watching the “Big Brother” reality series. But nothing I say can truly describe the unique plot, characters, political dynamics and social issues that Collins creates in these books. When I slapped the book shut last night after finishing the last page, I said out loud “She better not make me wait another 365 days until Book 3.” I am not sure I’ll survive.

Shoot Him If He Runs – Stuart Woods

2009-09-09T09:29:00.004-04:00

Whenever I need a quick mystery read, Stuart Woods is there. One of his more recent novels, “Shoot Him If He Runs” is another one of Stone Barrington’s escapades down in St. Marks. On a special mission from the President and First Lady, Woods accompanies his best friend, Dino and his girlfriend as well as his rekindled flame, Holly Barker down to the Caribbean island. Their goal is to locate Teddy Fay – a former CIA operative who went rogue and is believed to be responsible for multiple terror attacks throughout the United States. It's immediately clear that the First Family has more at stake than just locating a criminal. Back in the familiar territory of St. Marks, Stone reunites with his bartender friend and best informant, Thomas to get valuable information about the latest happenings on the island. Posing as tourists, the foursome starts to uncover what seems to be a very diplomatic political structure embedded with corrupt casinos and money laundering. Their trip only becomes more complicated when various members of the St Marks government end up murdered. A quick read and much better than the last Woods novel, this book falls into line with other works of this go-to author.

Paranoia - Joseph Finder

2009-08-26T07:34:00.001-04:00

Remember "The Associate" by John Grisham a few postings back? Well "Paranoia" is a better version of a similar tale. Adam Cassidy is a young engineer at a large telecommunications company that has just sealed his fate with a costly prank. After throwing a going away party on the company's dime, instead of being fired and charged with embezzlement, the CEO gives him another option - to become a spy at their biggest competitor, Trion. With intensive training and an overall makeover, they send him off to interview for a high paying, highly influential job. He lands it easily and thusly starts his new career in corporate espionage.

Keeping up the persona isn't easy as Cassidy is in way over his head and there are plenty of sharks waiting to see him fail, especially when he is promoted to becoming Jock Goddard, CEO of Trion's, personal assistant. As Adam starts to come into his own in this role, he is torn between the threats from his former employer, and the new life he leads at Trion. He and Jock strike up an odd, father-son relationship which only makes things more difficult. Adam has some decisions to make and none of them come easy.

Add in a dying, belligerent father, a new budding romance with a coworker and all the perks of living the corporate high-life, this book is a page-turner. The ending has enough twists to keep you guessing and I felt much more settled after reading this, than I did at the end of "The Associate." Good fun.

In the Heart of the Canyon - Elisabeth Hyde

2009-08-17T07:33:00.000-04:00

When I closed this book yesterday, I turned to my husband and told him I want to go on a two-week rafting trip down the Colorado River. Elisabeth Hyde's book, "In the Heart of the Canyon" has intrigued me.

Twelve people set off for a rafting trip - some are alone, others are with their family. There are three guides - JT who is in his early fifties and has done this trip 125 times, Dixie, an attractive fire-cracker who holds all the men's attention, and Abo who is funny, a bit sexy and always leads the paddling boat. Amongst the guests are a mother and her overweight, teenage daughter, a know-it-all man and his wife, a professor at Harvard, a husband and wife with their two, mischievous boys, and an older couple who has done this trip multiple times but this will be their last due to Lloyd having Alzheimer's.

The dynamics of these people is fascinating in itself and the character development by Hyde was brilliant. When you add in injuries, a stray dog, insecurities, and rapids, this book becomes a page-turner, not to mention a coming-of-age novel about all the characters, from those 17 years old, to 80.

I started and finished this book yesterday and as a result, felt like I watched a good movie. It's a great book, an easy read and something totally different from what I have been reading lately.

Incendiary - Chris Cleave

2009-08-11T13:51:00.001-04:00

Given that "Little Bee" was one of my top rated books in the past year, I was excited to start Incendiary by Chris Cleave. After doing some research, I found that this was released as a movie last year although I don't think it received much of a US following.

Similar to "Little Bee," this book is set in London and follows very troubled and interesting characters. Read as a letter from a broken mother to Osama bin Laden, this book follows the life of an adulterous woman as she grieves over the loss of her policeman husband and her 4 year-old boy. They were killed in a terrorist attack at the Arsenal vs Chelsea game along with 1,000 others. In the wake of such tragedy, London goes on high alert and the city changes completely. Soldiers walk the streets at night to enforce curfew, helicopters scan the skies and bridges are closed down indefinitely. The mother is grief stricken and on the verge of insanity as she wrestles not only with the loss of her "chaps" but also with the guilt as she watched the explosion on the telly while in throws of passion with her lover, Jasper Black.

What follows is a series of more heartbreak as all of London is suffering from the attack. Her relationship with Jasper can never shake the film of guilt overlying both of them and she manages to take up a new relationship with the police superintendent, which comes with its own set of troubles.

Though the book is dark and I felt a pit in my stomach every time she talked about Mr. Rabbit - the toy that her little boy loved and that was black with his blood - Cleave does a good job of mixing in enough banter and action to break up the sadness. It's tragic and it's political and it shows us how intertwined life and death really are with each other.

It's a must read.

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running – Haruki Murakami

2009-08-05T13:02:00.000-04:00

I was referred to this book by one of my favorite people, who is also a runner. This memoir describes the running life of Murakami – a Japanese novelist who has transcended transatlantic borders with his novels and published over 14 books worldwide.
He is a writer and a runner and each act sustains the other. His writing trains him to be able to focus for long periods of time, which helps his running. His running gives him time to sort through thoughts and an avenue to encounter people from across the world which inspire his stories. He claims that had he not started long-distance running, his novelist career would have stalled years ago.
I recommend this book to anyone who has run long-distance races. His stories of his 24 marathons, one ultra marathon and multiple triathlons are inspiring, but also humorous. Anyone who has trained for months for a race only to finish at a disappointing time, or who plays mental games with yourself when your body starts to give out during a long run can relate to Murakami. He describes, in detail, his thoughts as he is completing some of the toughest races known to mankind and many times I thought to myself “I have been there.” Don’t get me wrong – he is a much stronger and better runner than I and I would be disrespecting him to put us on the same plane. But he is right about one thing: despite the differences in age, country of origin, athletic ability and gender, all runners have something in common – a “warm emotion, like a vague, faintly colored mist over a late-spring peak” that we all share with each other as we line up at the start line.
I am not one to talk much about myself in this blog but given how this book relates to something that has become a significant part of my life, I am going to make an exception. I am training for my second marathon and am in my fifth week of training. I have been running since June 2005 fairly consistently and have completed 8 half marathons, multiple 5K and 10K races, one marathon relay and my first marathon since then. However, I don’t believe I became a “runner” until this past winter when I trained for that first marathon. Something changed about my relationship with running. I didn’t see it as something to help me lose weight, stay fit, or keep up with the people around me who loved to run. I started running for me. When I am out on the Monon Trail every Saturday morning, it is my “church.” The first four miles are tough as I struggle to loosen up my legs, regulate my breathing and hit my stride. But when I am out there, with athletes of all shapes, ages and sizes, running on my own with whatever podcast or playlist I have chosen for the day, it becomes very spiritual. It feeds my soul. Though I am always excited when I finish my run and can collapse on the deck, chugging G2 and letting the sweat roll off my forehead, within a couple of hours, I crave getting back out there again. I forget the pain and the struggle and remember the way the leaves looked or how I felt when the cute little old man clapped for me and gave me a high-five as I passed him. I am now not embarrassed when someone calls me a runner because I think I have earned it.

book recommendations

2009-08-05T12:50:00.001-04:00

Recently I have been informed that more than just one or two people actually read this blog. Who knew? This really started as a way for me to catalogue the books I read. At the rate of books passing through my head, I needed a way to document what I read and what I thought about each. I love that there are a few people who use this blog as a way to determine their next book buy!

In honor of them, I am making a list (I love lists!) of the best books I have read over the past 12 months. Here goes:

Overall picks:
1) The Road - Cormac McCarthy
2) Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins
3) Little Bee - Chris Cleave
4) The Shack - William Young
5) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night - Ed Haddon

Mystery/Thriller:
David Baldacci - Camel Club, The Collectors, Stone Cold, Divine Justice (4 book series)
Shutter Island - Dennis Lehane (Ok, I read this a few years ago but it is the best, most shocking book I have read and is about to become a movie so hurry and read it before you see the movie)

Chick Lit:
Anything by Jane Green (my favorites are still Mr. Maybe & Jemima J)
Anything by Emily Griffin

Story:
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle
Anything by Kent Haruf

Non-Fiction:
Under the Banner of Heaven
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

Enjoy!!

The Charlemagne Pursuit - Steve Berry

2009-08-04T09:46:00.000-04:00

Cotton Malone is back and true to character, is never one to walk away from an exciting, dangerous and very complicated adventure that will undoubtedly reveal truths that will change the way we view history.

Malone has always been desperate to understand how is father died in a submarine in Antarctica and works with his old friend, Stephanie Nelle, to uncover some of the hidden facts. Entering the equation this round are twin sisters whose father also died on that submarine and are competing with each other to get to the answers first. Meanwhile, bad guy Langford Ramsey, is at the heart of the scandal and hopes to keep it quiet during his quest to be appointed to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Murder-for-hire, Nazis, ancient societies, long-lost cities buried in mountains, historical and scientific puzzles and the occasional one-night stand - this book follows Berry's recipe for a thriller.

Anyone who knows my blog knows that once I start a book, I finish it. It's just a rule I have and truthfully, I can think of only one book that was a total waste of my time. Books tend to get better the more you read and I just refuse to give up early. That being said, it was a good thing my rule exists with this book. I found the first 150 pages pretty painful. Berry is very thorough in his research but the plot was so complex that I felt I was studying something rather than reading a novel. I managed to get through it and when things picked up, I was glad I did. That being said, be ready for a "thinker!"

Midnight Sun - Stephenie Myers

2009-08-03T09:52:00.000-04:00

So for those of you Twilight lovers - Stephenie Myers started writing the first Twilight book from Edward's perspective and titled it Midnight Sun. Unfortunately, the draft somehow ended up online. As a result, she posted the entire manuscript (well, what she had written so far) online for everyone to read. It isn't complete and she describes it as a true "rough" draft. It is, however, entertaining for those of us who crave more vampire literature in our life.

You can find it here: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/pdf/midnightsun_partial_draft4.pdf

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski

2009-07-28T09:43:00.000-04:00

My mom gave this book to me and before I read it, we also bought it for my mother-in-law. She didn't like it very much as she said it was very sad and depressing. As a result, I went into it thinking that there would be multiple heart-breaking moments. Though there were definitely some sad times, I never shed a tear. This book was touching and poignant and the characters were so well developed that the sad parts almost seemed natural through the course of their lives.

Edgar was born mute and lives with his parents on a farm. Instead of raising farm animals, however, they breed a very unique dog - the Sawtelles. Two generations old, Edgar's grandpa started this breed with a very strategic philosophy of dogs. The dogs were born on the farm, trained until they were eighteen months old, and then placed with the right family for a pretty steep price. Edgar is involved in this process very early on and has adapted to his disability by being able to sign with his parents, the dogs and the occasional ghost.

Tragedy strikes Edgar when he is a young teenager and he is convinced his Uncle Claude had something to do with it. When his mother and Claude start an unpredictable relationship, Edgar is forced to leave the farm and rely only on his dogs and his instincts to survive.

This book is utterly believable and for all dog lovers, it is a must read. The emotions and behaviors of the Sawtelle dogs were so aptly described that they became as imperative to the story as the humans.

It is a sad book in some ways, but the ending seemed to fit. It is a longer book and it took me a full week to get through, but it was well worth it. I hope you agree.

**Amendment: After hearing from a few sources that this book can be considered a modern-day Hamlet, I did a bit of research on the plot of Hamlet (yes, this avid book reader knows very little about the plots of most Shakespeare plays). Edgar Sawtelle is definitely an adaptation of Hamlet and it is amazing to me how well Wroblewski created this story out of the Hamlet plotline. It really defines why this book was so tragic.

A Reliable Wife, by Robert Goolrick

2009-07-14T16:23:00.000-04:00

Lucky for me, my parents just moved to Indianapolis and as a result, I have an entire library of new books to read, (i.e. - my mom's bookshelves!) She reads as much as I do, if not more, so there is a treasure cove of books just waiting for me to read at her place. I cannot wait.

I started 'A Reliable Wife" on Sunday and finished it on Monday (fast read.) Set in 1907 Wisconsin, Ralph Truitt has put an advertisement out for a wife. He wants someone reliable - a companion. Catherline Land answers his ad and from the moment she steps off the train and into his town, he knows she has deceived him. She comes from a sketchy background where she used her smarts and sexuality to propel her and her sister's life forward. She knows her beginning, and she knows her end (that she will have love and money, and Ralph can give her both.) What she can't predict, however, is the middle. Despite the fact that Ralph knows she isn't who she says she is, he enjoys having her around. His sexual hunger seems tamed by her and he loves having a companion again. Ralph asks for her help to bring home his estranged son, which gives her plot and con a chance to thrive. She starts to poison him with arsenic slowly, but he doesn't die. Both have agendas and yet the life they create for each other is not at all what either of them planned as their "middle." This book is a story of love, but is also of suspense and unpredictability. I won't say much more as part of the journey is reading some of the plot twists on your own and I definitely recommend you do.

Downtown Owl - Chuck Klosterman

2009-07-14T16:09:00.001-04:00

I typically know what my reading line up looks like and usually have at least a couple of books in reserve so that when I close one book, I can seamlessly open another. I had a moment of panic recently when I realized that I didn't have any books on deck. Husband to the rescue! He pulls "Downtown Owl" off the bookshelves and tells me I would like it. I don't have much of a choice here so dive in with reservations. I was pleasantly surprised.

Owl is a very small town nestled in North Dakota. This novel takes the perspectives of multiple characters living in Owl: Mitch - a high school student and athlete, Julia -the new history teacher in town, Horace - an older man who spends his time drinking coffee with the men in the diner everyday, debating various subjects; and a few other regulars including the football coach who knocked up a high school girl, an barfly who used to be the star football player when he was in high school, and another teacher that spends her evenings drinking her troubles away. We get to know these characters through their own thoughts - which are depicted in very plain speak. Not all of the stories and narratives that we hear have a place in developing the actual plot, but they do a great job of developing the true character of these individuals. All of their lives are intertwined and typical of most small towns, Owl has very little actual drama, but plenty of drama created out of pure boredom. The more I got to know these characters, the more I wanted to read about them.

The ending is poignant and somewhat shocking. This is Klosterman's first novel and his simple prose made me feel as I was sitting in the diner with Horace, the classroom with Mitch or at the bar, sipping cheap gin with Julia.

A very good book indeed - who knew this little gem lay waiting for me on my bookshelves and I didn't even know it?

-Oct. 27 note: ***When we were in Italy earlier this month, our first night we went to this great restaurant in Venice. Who sits right next to me but Chuck Klosterman himself! My husband recognized him first and begged me not to say something. But I did. He was on his honeymoon and was so nice and friendly. I wish we could have spent all night talking with him but thought better of interrupting his dinner. Our only Italy celeb sighting but what a good one!***

Girl Friday/Dune Road - Jane Green

2009-07-14T15:53:00.000-04:00

I picked up this book in the London airport and finished it less than 24 hours later (granted, I did have a 9 hour flight to dedicate to it). Yesterday, I was in Target and picked up a book called "Dune Road" by Jane Green, thinking it was a new one. Strangely, it is the same book, just titled differently in the US and the UK. Interesting.

Anyway, Kit is a recently divorced mother of two who moves into a small Connecticut town. She takes a job with a very popular and secluded author in town as his assistant and meets her new best friend and yoga instructor, Tracy. She and her ex-husband seem to be getting along and life seems to only get better when Steve, an attractive businessmen asks her out on a date. As her new romance takes off, things start going south quickly. Tracy starts to date Kit's boss, Robert, and is distant with Kit. Robert starts to divulge his past and the secrets he has been keeping for years and though Kit's relationship is going well, she can't seem to get past the feelings she still has for her ex-husband.

Jane Green rarely disappoints me. Her books are full of drama, great characters, love, sex and usually at least one person from England. This book held it's own and the drama alone kept me coming back for more. Enjoy!

Hot Mahogany - Stuart Woods

2009-07-14T15:39:00.000-04:00

Stone Barrington is back in Woods' most recent book, Hot Mahogany. I know that there are at least a few Barrington books that I have missed since the last one I read, Cold Paradise, but it didn't seem to impact my ability to follow along quite easily.

Stone meets Barton Cabot (older brother of CIA operative and friend, Lance Cabot) at he and Dino's standby hangout, Elaine's. Barton has recently been the victim of some random violence and as a result, has very little memory. Lance leaves him in Woods' care and with a bit of coaxing as well as utilizing Dino's resources, they determine that Barton is quite the antique furniture dealer. He buys, he sells, and he builds furniture that looks exactly like the centuries old originals. What follows is a series of mysteries being solved about how Barton ended up beaten up on the side of a road, why some of his prize furniture pieces are missing and how his military past may have something to do with it. For those of you who knows Stone Barrington, it wouldn't be complete with his sexual escapades with various women. I wouldn't say this is my favorite Stuart Woods book. It seemed a bit too complicated and the plot got lost amongst the different twists. It was, however, a fast read and kept me entertained while on the treadmill.

First Family - David Baldacci

2009-06-29T15:02:00.000-04:00

Few things in the book world excite me more than a new book published by Baldacci. Despite the fact that First Family was thrilling and intellectual, it left me a bit disappointed.

The book opens with two of my favorite characters - Sean and Michelle. They are involved in investigating a kidnapping that is tied to the first family. Willa, the first lady's niece, was kidnapped and her mother killed the night of a family birthday party. Michelle balances the investigation of her disappearance while also dealing with the sudden death of her mother.

We also meet Sam Quarry who lives in Alabama on a large piece of land which includes a runway, old mines and employs various people including his son. Sam is carrying a big burden (which we only learn fully about at the end) and is behind the kidnapping. The parallel plots move forward alongside each other throughout the book, only colliding towards the end. Typical of Baldacci, the plot is complex and the characters are well developed. The one thing that disappointed me is that one of the key parts to the storyline (involving the president of the United States) just doesn't seem plausible. It is a good book and one that I am glad I read. But it isn't one of his best.

The Associate - John Grisham

2009-06-29T14:49:00.000-04:00

John Grisham has been absent from my life for awhile. Nothing personal, we haven't been ignoring each other. I just haven't had the opportunity to dig into his work lately. As absence clearly makes the heart grow fonder, I couldn't wait to dive into The Associate. It was promised to be of "old Grisham quality" and I was prepared for greatness once again.

Kyle McAvoy is head of the Yale Law Review, a former basketball star and has accepted a position doing pro-bono law for his first few years upon graduation. However, all of these plans changed when two men in suits show up at a basketball game he was coaching. What follows in a night of shock and confusion for Kyle. They alert him that an incident he thought was far in his past has resurfaced and it could damage his life and career forever. The only way to avoid such devastation is by following their exact instructions. He is to take a job offered to him at the biggest law firm in the country and become ingrained to a federal law suit in the litigation department. While he works alongside partners dedicated to this case, he will steal confidential and defaming information to help further the case for the other side. If he refuses, proof of his involvement of such incident will become public. Kyle's a smart man, but is backed into a corner. He spends his first 6 months in the law firm and doing exactly what they say, until he finally reaches his breaking point and turns the corner. Now the hunters become the hunted.

I liked this book because it was fast paced, the characters were believable and the plot was interesting. I did not like it for one reason only - the ending. It was so ambiguous I truly think there will have to be a sequel. Top Grisham quality? Not quite - but he and I are on speaking terms again at least.

New Moon, Eclipse & Breaking Dawn - Stephenie Myer

2009-06-29T14:35:00.000-04:00

I knew that as soon as I started the Twilight series, I wouldn't stop. I never thought I could be obsessed with the books and though I wouldn't say I have stopped by Hot Topic to pick up a tshirt with Kristen Stewart's face on the front, I do love these books. And deep down, I wouldn't mind one bit if I was friends with a vampire (as long as they were from the Cullen family).
New Moon starts where Twilight left off - Bella and Edward are happily together and life seems safe and normal. However, when Bella's clumsiness causes a near miss at the Cullen household, Edward decides he must exit her life for safety reasons. This book, as a result, is really quite depressing. Bella is a heartbroken teenager who sees very little reason for existence. Then enters Jacob. We met Jacob in the first book but barely. Now he is older, more mature, better looking and becomes Bella's new best friend and personal savior. I won't go into too many details but of the four books, this is my least favorite. However, it sets the scene for the last two books so is necessary. To be honest, it isn't hard to read and get through, just doesn't hold up the excitement and edginess of the others.

Eclipse follows with more drama. Edward and Bella have reunited (sorry for any spoilers) but she is still very close with Jacob. The tension between Edward and Jacob pulls her in opposite directions. Meanwhile, mysterious killings in Seattle alert the Cullens to a rival coven of vampires - ones that eat more than just animals. It is soon learned that the vampires are not just around to thirst upon random humans in Seattle, but to come after Bella in revenge. (Refer to book one for the cause of such revenge). Edward and Jacob must unite to save Bella from the evil vampires. Bella, also must make a decision. She wants to live with Edward forever, but as he is immortal and she is only getting older each day, the only way is for her to become a vampire herself. As graduation rounds the corner, will Edward comply? Will she be saved from the vengeful vampires?

Lastly, Breaking Dawn. I can't go into a lot of detail here without spoiling everything. Let's just leave it that this book has some twists and turns that I wasn't expecting. A few things will be revealed: Could Bella be Jacob's true love in the same sense that Edward is hers? Will Bella become a vampire? Can Edward and Bella have a romantic relationship after all? Will they ever be safe from the Volturi coven?

If you are interested in the books and just can't decide if you want to commit, I urge you to. The movie is not nearly as good and truthfully, they are pure entertainment.

Twilight - Stephenie Meyer

2009-06-05T08:35:00.000-04:00

It's true. I am twenty-eight years old and I am reading the Twilight series. Typically, I hate to miss out on something that is taking over the airwaves the way Twilight has in the past year, so I indulged. And now I am hooked.

I am sure you have heard - teenage love story involving vampires. But there is more to it...it isn't the best literature but the story grabs you. The characters are well developed and real (well as real as a vampire can be) and the love the develops between Bella (human) and Edward (vampire) is deep and captivating. The first half of the book develops the plot while the second half involves some danger and action.

I finished the book in less than 36 hours and have moved on to New Moon. Stay tuned.

Tie That Binds - Kent Haruf

2009-06-05T08:08:00.000-04:00

My husband and I are big fans of Kent Haruf. We love "Plainsong," "Eventide" and now, "Tie That Binds."
Set in small town, Holt, Colorado, the story is told in first person by Sanders Roscoe and begins with the revelation that 90 year old, Edith Goodnaugh, has been charged with her brother's murder. Sanders tells the story as if you and he are sitting on his front porch, sipping lemonade with all the time in the world for the details to unfold. And unfold slowly, they do.
The Roscoe family is tied closely with the Goodnaugh family. His father did work on the Goodnaugh farm for Edith's father, and became close with both Edith and her brother Lyman. Roy Goodnaugh was a mean man - violent and aggressive. When Sanders was born, his father involved him in the farm work to give the Goodnaugh children a break from the work as well as from the father. The families intertwined over many decades and as Roscoe tells the story, it is clear that there is a lot of history and love between them. The characters are honest and real - with lovable qualities and imperfections. I find that all of his books tell of a simpler life, but one plagued with it's own problems. Haruf does an amazing job with storytelling and the book, though slow in nature, is one you don't want to put down.

Long Lost, Harlan Coben

2009-06-05T07:57:00.000-04:00

Though it took awhile for me to realize, I have met Myron Bolitar before. The main character of "Long Lost," he and I were first introduced in "Promise Me." Myron puts his sports agent/private investigator career on hold when his former lover, Terese Collins, calls him out of the blue. She is in Paris and needs his help. Her former husband, Rick, called her frantically and asked to meet with her to share earth shattering news. However, when she got to Paris, he disappeared. When Myron arrives in France, the news of Rick's murder has spread, flinging Terese and Myron into the thick of the investigation. As Myron begins to inspect the details surrounding his death and to determine what secrets he was keeping from his ex-wife, he relies on his trusty sidekick and bodyguard, Win. The chase around Europe begins and involves terrorists, politics and scientific social issues that go beyond most people's imagination. The characters are well developed and likable, the plot and journey are fast-paced and entertaining and I found this to be my favorite of the Harlan Coben's I have read. I hope Myron Bolitar and I meet again soon...

Divine Justice - David Baldacci

2009-05-15T09:59:00.000-04:00

The Camel Club is back! In Baldacci's fourth installment of Stone, Rueben, and Caleb, we pick up right where we left off. Oliver Stone had just dove into the Chesapeake Bay after his revenge on both Simpson and Gray. As he goes into hiding, his counterparts find themselves caught in the cross hairs of the CIA investigation to crimes Stone potentially committed. Worried about their friend they find themselves on a manhunt of their own. Meanwhile, Stone buries himself in a small mining town, Divine, VA. He befriends a young man and his mother and manages to make some extra cash working various jobs around town. Though he is mostly concerned about concealing his identity, he finds himself witnessing many crimes throughout this small city including murder, arson and beatings. Stone can't help but to get involved. As he does, the CIA has hired Joe Knox to find Stone, their lead suspect in the murders of Simpson and Gray. As Knox starts to uncover more truths about Stone, his sympathy for him grows. The Camel Club are on Knox's trail and it is only a matter of time before they all convene in Divine. Stone is embedded in the mysterious crimes and gets himself in trouble, bringing Knox down with him. It is up to the likes of Reuben, Caleb, Annabelle, Alex and Finn to save them.
I love the Camel Club books and hope there is a 5th coming. You just can't help but love these characters and especially when each book seems to add another to the mix!

Always Looking Up: Adventures of an Incurable Optimist by Michael J. Fox

2009-05-08T14:17:00.000-04:00

I am usually one that shies away from books about Parkinson's Disease. It just hits too close to home for me. (I have had "Saving Milly" on my bookshelf for over 7 years now and haven't even cracked it open). But this book isn't about Parkinson's Disease. In fact, it really is about MJF's adventures over the past 10 years. He breaks the book down into Work, Politics, Faith and Family. Each section includes details about his journey and the accompanying stories are laugh-out-loud funny. He very rarely, if ever, complains about his disease. Sure it comes up - but in ways such as describing himself as "shaky dad" or talking about sitting at a political event and worrying that he was going to kick Bono in the groin accidentally because he was unable to control his movements. An eternal optimist he is, and there isn't a single page in the book that you don't get the overwhelming feeling that MJF is a very grateful man - grateful for the life he has led, the success he has had, the people he has surrounded himself with and the love and support of his family. He is an inspiration to us all and as I finished this, I couldn't be more grateful for the support of my own friends and family as I raised money for Team Fox this past spring. Thank you again.

Queen of Babble in the Big CIty - Meg Cabot

2009-05-08T13:45:00.000-04:00

I have never read of any of these books but gather from the beginning, and the end, that this is a series.
Lizzie is an everyday girl. Not particularly pretty or rich or accomplished, she moves to NYC with her best friend Shari and their boyfriends, Luke and Chaz respectively. Luke comes from money and lives in his parent's apartment. When he asks Lizzie to move in with him, she insists on paying rent to him so she doesn't feel completely indebted to his family. Her dream in life is to design her own wedding line and to break into the business, she takes an unpaid internship with a small boutique doing wedding dress restorations. To make a bit of money, she operates as a receptionist each morning at Chaz's father's law firm. Apparently, Lizzie is known throughout these books to have a pretty big mouth and an appetite for gossip. (Hence the title?) Her role as receptionist lends itself to all the dirty secrets of some of the clients that come into the law firm, and she finds herself in a bit of trouble when she can't keep her mouth shut. As she spends every afternoon in the throws of brides and dresses, she finds herself starting to plan her and Luke's own wedding. She is disarmingly charming - she is sincere and modest and makes fun of herself. She's the type of person you want to be friends with and you want to succeed. It is an easy read and one that has enough drama to keep you coming back for more. I just need to find out what the next book in line is!

Second Chance - Jane Green

2009-05-08T13:37:00.000-04:00

For any of you who follow this blog, you'll know that I love Jane Green. Her books are very girly and usually involve subjects of love, friendship, marriage, children and sex. What's not to like?
My latest installment, "Second Chances" is set in London. Four schoolmates reunite after the tragic death of their friend, Tom. Saffron is an alcoholic actress, living in LA and having an affair with a well-known (and married) actor. Holly is a free-spirited woman who once loved Tom and who is now imprisoned in her home and life by her strict husband. Paul is a writer who married a fashionista entrepreneur. Their troubles exist only in that they seemingly are not able to have children. Olivia is a quiet, single woman who owns a pet shelter. As the four of them come together to mourn the loss of Tom, they all end up reevaluating their own lives. Through each other's support, they are able to ignite the old fire within each of them and lead a happier life.
I'll admit, this wasn't my favorite of hers. That being said, I finished it in less than 24 hours.

Gang Leader for a Day - Sudhir Venkatesh

2009-05-08T13:28:00.000-04:00

This book was on the "buy one, get the other 1/2 off" table at the bookstore and because of my obsession with "The Wire," I picked it up. This is a true story of Sudhir's 7+ year journey getting to know the Black Kings of Chicago. A sociology masters student, he was interested in learning about socio-economic influences of Chicago's poorest. He walked into one of the project highrises in Chicago with a clipboard in hand and questions to ask. He was immediately surrounded by a group of men who rummaged through his things and didn't allow him to leave for hours. When their leader, J.T., came through, he took an interest in Sudhir. After learning about what his purpose was, J.T. invited Sudhir to come back. Their very unlikely friendship emerged. Sudhir went back, day after day, to learn about how real drug dealers functioned, the intricacies of gang life as well as family life in the projects. He wrestles with the inclusion he has been granted and that he witnesses countless crimes while he is performing his study. His narrative is gripping - from the exciting violent scenes to the sadder ones, Sudhir dispels many of the common thoughts about gangs. When he is allowed to be "gang leader for a day," he is forced to mediate between rivals, make financial decisions and solve problems he never knew existed. He describes himself as a man with a lot of curiosity and little fear, and those two characteristics took him very far with this book. A must read!

Cold Paradise - Stuart Woods

2009-04-14T08:10:00.000-04:00

When I picked up Cold Paradise, I was hoping that it would pick up right where we left off with LA Dead. I was in luck! Stone is barely back from LA when he gets a new client, Thad Shames who has hired Stone to track down a beautiful woman he met at a party. The assignment takes Stone to Palm Beach and he hopes that not only can he find this mysterious woman, but also leave behind his crazy ex-wife (Dolce) and forget the troubles between his long-time love, Arrington. When he arrives, however, another old flame enters his world - Allison Manning (from Dead in the Water). She has resurfaced and needs Stone's help to resolve some past insurance disputes and to protect her from her ex-husband. Add Dino, Stone's ex-partner, and you have all the familiar characters of Woods' books and quite an entertaining and fast-paced story line. Not to mention, it wouldn't be a good Stone Barrington novel without a new woman to add to the mix, this time, young Callie who is Thad's personal assistant. I suggest if you are going to get into Stuart Woods, be sure to start at the beginning so that you can sail smoothly through each of these without missing a beat! The only thing that would have made this book better is if I was reading it on the beach!

L.A. Dead - Stuart Woods

2009-04-07T20:42:00.000-04:00

Picking right up where "Dead in the Water" left off, Stone Barrington is still reeling from his ex-girlfriend's sudden marriage to famed actor Vance Calder and has decided to drown his sorrows in an abrupt marriage with Dolce, his best-friend Dino's sister-in-law. When in Venice for the nuptials, he is interrupted with the news that Vance has been brutally murdered and his wife, Arrington is the lead suspect. He rushes to L.A. in her time of need and finds that she has no memory of the night in question. As Stone handles her legal affairs, he finds himself in a culture unlike one he is used to - beautiful (and often naked) women, throwing themselves at him and yet ready to back stab him in an instant. As he realizes his love for Arrington has never gone away and as a result must deal with the aftermath of his crazy ex-fiance, Dolce. The book is a great paced and easy to read. Stone never disappoints when it comes to his escapades in the bedroom and I love the friendship he and Dino has. My only issue with this book is that it doesn't really end. The mystery is drawn out throughout the book and within 10 pages is wrapped up without enough details to truly close the story. This only leads me to believe that I will only get answers if I continue the series. Next stop - another Woods book!

Little Bee - Chris Cleave

2009-04-07T20:29:00.000-04:00

I bought this book for one reason - the summary on the cover jacket. It gave very little information but definitely peaked my interest by telling that this is the story of two women who met two years ago and one faced a choice no person should ever have to make. When they meet again, it is very different circumstances and each has to find a way to start a new life for themselves.

I would love to tell you more - but truthfully, the journey of this book really is in its story and I don't want to spoil that for the potential reader.

I can tell you that the story is as beautiful as it is tragic and the writing truly spoke to my heart. I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

Love the One You're With - Emily Griffin

2009-04-07T20:17:00.000-04:00

I went to the bookstore on Friday night and needed to buy a few books to break me from the religious/political/CIA mysteries I have been reading. A couple of years ago, I picked up "Something Borrowed" in the airport. A true "girl" book, I fell in love with this author and the stories she tells. I know I have skipped one in her series (about babies) but was happy to reunite with Griffin with her newest book, "Love the One You're With."
Ellen and Andy are in their first year of marriage and things seem perfect. Ellen met Andy through his sister, her best friend, Margot. She has truly become a member of their family. Her career as a photographer is going extremely well and they are content in their life. Then, along comes her past love, Leo. Ellen and Leo's love was of pure passion - full of excitement, lust and longing. When she runs into him on a street corner, memories of their relationship come flooding back. As the two of them give friendship a go, she finds herself comparing her marriage with Andy to what life with Leo could have been.
The question of "is the grass really greener?" seems to be the main theme of this book. It was exactly the break I needed - a totally different book from the thrillers I have been sticking to and one that I could read in a weekend. If you like Jane Green books, Emily Griffin is another author to add to your list!

Act of Treason - Vince Flynn

2009-04-07T20:04:00.000-04:00

I have been told that if you are a fan of David Baldacci, Vince Flynn is a comparable author to add to my reading repertoire. I borrowed "Act of Treason" from a friend and though I don't think he replaces B.D. quite yet, I did really enjoy the book. Clearly not the first of the Mitch Rapp series, this is the story of a post-911 terrorist attack on the Democratic presidential candidates, killing 19, including the wife of the VP nominee. As the incumbent CIA director has a mere 3 months to try to find the sect responsible for this disaster, she goes to the ever-reliable operative, Mitch Rapp. As Rapp is clearly suffering from losing his wife (I assume this happened in a previous novel), he is not quite on his A-game as he goes from country to country trying to find the mysterious man seen in a red cap near the bomb site. The more he finds out, however, the more he realizes that this may not be an outside job and may have more to do with a personal nature rather than a political one. The plot involves a scandalous affair, the quest for power and the inner-workings of a political campaign.
After reading some other reviews, it seems that Flynn followers didn't think this one stacked up to past novels, specifically ones involving repeated character Rapp. I thought this was a quick read and one that held my attention so look forward to see what he has to offer in other books.

Dead in the Water - Stuart Woods

2009-03-17T15:46:00.000-04:00

Awhile back I read a book called New York Dead which I loved. One of my co-workers lent me Dead in the Water recently. I know I have missed a few key books involved Woods' main character, Stone Barrington, but it didn't seem to matter when reading this book. Stone lands in St. Marks where his girlfriend is supposed to meet him for a week of sailing and relaxation. When she gets stuck in NYC in a snowstorm, he looks for other ways of entertainment and ends up smack in the middle of a legal matter involving beautiful Allison Manning. Her yacht docks near his and she is immediately escorted by police to a courtroom where she is being tried for her husband's murder. Stone, former NY cop and current attorney, listens to the arraignment and volunteers to help Allison. He learns that Allison and her husband were sailing across the world when her husband passes away from a heart attack and she buries him at sea. The island prosecutor, however, uses Allison's story to further his political career and presses for a conviction and even worse, a hanging. Typical of Stone, he manages to squeeze in a little affair with his main client while trying to get her out of trouble.
I have been reading a lot of books lately where each chapter is a different character's perspective which requires you to piece things together as you go. Though it is fun and challenging, I was excited to read this book that starts one chapter right where the other left off and is a very fast read. If you haven't figured it out yet, I love series of books that bring back familiar characters and I am exciting to read more of Stone Barrington's adventures!

Venetian Betrayl - Steve Berry

2009-03-17T15:10:00.000-04:00

In my third installment of Steve Berry, I managed to land right where I left off with Cotton Malone, Cassiopeia Vitt and Stephanie Nelle. This time their villian is Irina Zovastina, the prime minister of Central Russian Federation. Her obsession with Alexander the Great has caused her to want full domination of not only her own country, but to also take down the Middle East. For years she has been prepping a bioweapon that will destroy Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. When Malone's team catches wind of this plan, they must stay one step ahead of her and will have to find the only antidote - which lies with Alexander's remains. The hunt for his burial site shapes this novel, along with Berry's typical twists and turns to keep the book moving at a fast pace. He does a good job of not derailing with too much in depth history of Alexander. This was an easy book to settle into knowing the characters already and the way it ended, it seems like we'll see them all again soon!

change of pace...

2009-03-02T16:44:00.000-05:00

This blog has always been about books, but in this post, I am going a different direction. I have seen the most amazing movies in the past two months and need to debrief. I can't rank them - trust me, I have tried. They are each unique and wonderful in their own way, but not at all similar.

MILK - This was the first one Josh and I went to see. It's no wonder that Sean Penn won the Oscar for his role as Harvey Milk. Based on a true story, Milk was the first openly gay individual to be elected to public office in California. His journey throughout his multiple campaigns, the family of people that surrounded him and supported him and his disposition on freedom and equality was more than just moving. What scared me - and I mean really scared me - is that these events happened in the 1970s. Over thirty years ago and yet this country is still talking about, fighting for and struggling with equal rights for all people. During Milk's time, it was Proposition 6 that was on the ballot. This initiative would mandate that all gay teachers and any school employees who supported gay rights, be fired. And in 2008-2009, we have Proposition 8. Anyway, this movie is amazing - the acting, the story and what Harvey Milk did for the gay community.

Curious Case of Benjamin Button - Switching gears completely to the story of Benjamin Button. A baby born with a condition - he ages backwards. Given up by his biological father, Button is raised by Queenie, a black women who runs a seniors home. Button fits right in with the guests and meets Daisy - a young girl that looks nothing like Button, but the share the same interests and build a friendship that lasts decades. As Button gets younger, Daisy gets older and their ages finally match. Their love affair is beautiful and the story of Button's life, as are the people he meets in life. This movie makes you laugh, and undoubtedly makes you cry. Brad Pitt was amazing as Button and Cate Blanchett as Daisy was equally stunning. Some say that this movie reminds them of Forest Gump - and I can see the comparison: the life story of a strange man who goes through life touching people all around him, having a fabulous love affair while taking note of world events. However, I liked Button much better.

Revolutionary Road - If you have seen the previews, it is obvious that this movie is going to be a bit dark. A couple - Leonardio deCaprio and Kate Winslet - are young, married and have two kids. Both are dreamers and wonder aloud how they came to find themselves in such a routine and boring life. As they quest for change and to resurrect the love between them, each make small choices that turn out to be monumental ones. There isn't much else to talk about without giving away key information so I'll leave it at that. The acting is wonderful (what did you expect with these two?) and the surprise role of Michael Shannon as the crazed neighbor's son adds some humor and depth to the story. This movie made me realize just how much work and constant attention a marriage needs to last.

The Wrestler - I didn't really know a lot about Mickey Rourke until after seeing this movie. It seems his story meshes very well with that of his character in The Wrestler. Once, a man in his prime with the world's attention; now a man who is alone, with a broken career and struggling with money, depression. Randy, "The Ram," still wrestles. He makes pocket change these days for putting his aging body through fights that leave him bruised, broken and bleeding. When he is forced with making a decision to continue to fight and risk his life, or walk away from the only thing in his life, he encounters two women that offer him hope: his estranged daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) and a compassionate stripper (Marisa Tomei). It seems as if this role was written for Rourke - he is Randy "The Ram" Robinson. As his life starts to right itself, the question always remains, will can he distance himself enough from his old ways to allow himself happiness?

Slumdog Millionaire - Despite my incessant need to see a movie weekly, my husband got sick of it. I think that the people working at the movie theater must find me a bit odd as I walk in every Sunday, alone, adorning pajama wear, for my Sunday flick. With all the hype, this was the first I ventured to see. Disclaimer - this is not a musical! Why the people who create movie trailers feel the need to show the choreographed dance number during the advertisements baffles me - that takes place during the credits! After the movie is over! Anyway, I digress. You probably know the plot line but I'll simply spell it out. Jamal is a boy that has grown up in the slums of India with his brother Salim on their own. Their mother was killed when they were very young and they raised themselves through strife and adventure. Later in life, Jamal finds himself on India's "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" and we learn about his life through the questions that he answers. As he grows up, his childhood friend, Latika, finds herself in trouble with Salim at the center. Jamal's love for both his brother and Latika collide and he is forced with choices, as well as the chance to win a million dollars. The children in this movie are precious - you'll want to reach through the screen and hug them. Seriously. These unknown actors depict these characters so well and this film is beyond moving.

Doubt - I wish I had gone into this movie with a bit more of an open mind of what I expected. Truthfully, I expected the priest/child molestation tragedy of the past decade to unfold in front of viewers. I should have just listened to the title of this movie - heck, I even had my timing wrong! Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Viola Davis are a community of amazing actors in themselves. Their portrayal of a Catholic church and school dealing with their first black student and the attention that follows is precise. The theme of this movie, however, is not a priest molesting a child...it's of Doubt. How each character deals with and reacts to doubt. Simple as that. I think if you know that going into it, you'll like it better than I did. Don't get me wrong, it was a great movie. I just had a predetermined ending that never happened. Let the movie lead you - I think it will make a difference!

The Reader - if you follow my blog (which I doubt (no pun intended) anyone does), you'd know that I read this book recently and felt just ok about it. I appreciate the plot but just couldn't attach myself to Hannah (Kate Winslet). It doesn't happen often, but the movie trumped the book in this case. Kate Winslet did such a fabulous job of depicting a woman whose life holds many secrets and emotions. Her love affair with a 15-year old is believable (I had trouble with it in the book) and Winslet shows how her reaction (or lack thereof) when she is accused of a Nazi crime is almost (almost) understandable. When Michael Berg falls in love with Hannah - the older neighbor, their love affair consists really of two elements: sex, and reading. Hannah always wants Michael to read aloud to her. Their affair ends when Hannah abruptly leaves town. Years later, they reunite as Michael studies a Nazi war crime case in law school and finds out that Hannah is one of the defendants. This story is one of love, shame, guilt, and of two people in very different stages of life trying to understand each other. One of my all time favorites.

Vicky Christina Barcelona - We rented this one. Compared to the ones I had seen in the theater, this was much lighter in nature. Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Christina (Scarlett Johansson) take off to spend the summer in Barcelona with Vicky's aunt and uncle. Vicky is engaged to marry a very practical man and Christina is a free spirit looking for purpose. They soon meet Juan (Javier Bardem) who is a painter in the city. He takes the two away to a little village and has an affair with both. Because of Vicky's upcoming nuptials, she removes herself from the situation leaving Christina and Juan to a romantic love affair. Then enters Maria Elena (Penelope Cruz) - Juan's crazed ex-wife, not just into the movie, but also into the relationship. Let me just say that Penelope can play a crazy woman better than most (hence the Oscar!) This is a story of adventure and has a good line of humor running through it.

Changeling - I rented this movie as well. If you have seen the trailer, you essentially know the plot. Christine Collins (Angelina Jolie) comes home one day from work and finds her 8 year-old son Walter missing. The LAPD has had scandal after scandal and is plagued with corruption. In an attempt to bring a positive story to their force, they return a boy to Christine that is not her son. Though she protests incessantly, they make her out to be crazy for not loving and caring for this boy that they claim is her son. She is befriended by a minister that has dedicated his weekly radio show to broadcasting the pitfalls of the LAPD. I won't reveal much more. This is based on a true story which adds an interesting element to it. The movie runs a bit long (I was ready to be done with 20 minutes left in the movie) but Jolie deserves her Oscar nod and the story does hold your attention.

The Alexandria Link - Steven Berry

2009-03-02T16:34:00.000-05:00

Little did I know that Berry's 5th novel would pick up right where the last one I read left off. Malone is back in Denmark, hoping to get to a state of normalcy when his ex-wife shows up. Their son has been kidnapped, his bookstore is soon after burned to the ground and he has a decision to make. Give up the secret to the Library of Alexandria, or risk never seeing his son again. He is the link to the lost library which supposedly holds ancient texts that could undermine Israel's holyland but could also uproot the religious worlds of the US and Saudi Arabia. Berry again does a great job of challenging the cornerstones of multiple religions whilst keeping readers on the edge of their seats through a thickening and global reaching plot of corruption. I found this book a bit easier to digest than the Templar Legacy - there were fewer history lessons and enough visuals for me to truly understand the implications of the library of Alexandria without having to slow down too long to miss something in the plot or characters. Another fast paced religious thriller!

The Templar Legacy - Steven Berry

2009-02-16T10:06:00.000-05:00

This is my first of Steven Berry's - and I am lucky enough to have two more sitting on my bookshelves courtesy of Jason Walker.

Ex US Department of Justice agent, Cotton Malone, moved to Copenhagen to run a rare book shop. His life is peaceful and content until his former boss, Stephanie Nelle comes to visit him. Before she even makes it to the meeting spot, her purse is snatched and Cotton goes on a chase to recover it. Though he retrieves the bag, the purse snatcher dives to his own death off the top of a tall building. From that point on, Cotton and Stephanie join forces to figure out who this guy was and what he wanted from Stephanie. The investigation leads them to Southern France to a few remote villages and to the legacy of the Knights Templar - a medieval religious order. Stephanie's late husband, Lars Nelle, spent the majority of his career researching the Knights Templar and the Great Devise - a hidden secret and treasure that is supposed to expose the truth of Jesus' death and disproving the Resurrection. He died hanging from a bridge 10 years ago and left his journal and notes to he and Stephanie's son, Mark. Somehow, it ends up in the hands of Stephanie years late. Malone and Nelle must also sidestep the efforts of de Roquefort - the current Master of the Knights Templar whose team of gun-wielding religious men want to get all of Lars' knowledge from Malone and Nelle whilst reaching the Great Devise first. Malone and Nelle meet up with various others to help them in their journey to discover the truth behind Lars' death and to find what the current Templars still search for - the Great Devise.
This book is heavy with history, anagrams, cryptic codes and clues and has a definite Da Vinci Code flavor to it. It's fast paced plot gets slowed down by some of the description but Berry does a good job of solving the anagrams for the reader at a realistic pace rather than forcing the reader to figure it out.

Stone Cold by David Baldacci

2009-02-16T08:17:00.000-05:00

I finally got a chance to read Baldacci's third novel from his "Camel Club" series. I know that the fourth one has recently been released so I hope to get my hands on it soon. My amazing friends bought Borders/Barnes & Noble gift cards for my birthday so I am ready to do some book-shopping damage.

This one starts off where the Collectors ended - Annabelle, their beautiful, con-artist friend, is still in trouble. The "victim" of her biggest scam, Jerry Bagger, is after her and if he finds her, she will undoubtedly not survive the encounter. The Camel Club is ready to help with their unique personalities and skills. We are also introduced to the suburbanite Harry Finn who to his family is a normal dad and husband who works for the government. His job, however, is to infiltrate highly secure areas the same way a terrorist might to determine if the security measures in place are enough to stop a potential massive breach. He also lives another life that only his mother knows about. Harry's father was murdered by CIA assassins who staged it to look like suicide. He has investigated each person involved in his father's murder and has killed them, one by one in revenge. On his list are Carter Gray, former director of the CIA (also a character in Baldacci's last book, The Collectors) and John Carr. Finn believes Carr to be dead and buried in Arlington National Cemetery and has no idea that he is living as Oliver Stone now. When Stone starts to figure out what Finn is doing, the two plots merge and the Camel Club is determined to help Annabelle while figuring out how to resolve Finn's problems without more murders occuring.
Politics, CIA, assassins, scam artists and the Camel Club - the perfect recipe for a great book!

It's Always Something - Gilda Radner

2009-01-30T08:38:00.000-05:00

It's not very often that I would read a non-fiction book, published in 1989 about a woman I have barely heard of. But desperate times (not having a book to read) call for desperate measures and so I picked this one off my book shelf and dug in.
Gilda Radner was a famous comedian in her time - starring in Saturday Night Live and in movies with her husband, Gene Wilder. A woman full of joy and energy, when she started to feel sick, it took the wind out of her sails. For 10 months, she went to multiple doctors to try to understand why she felt flu-like symptoms for many days at a time. No one had any answers for her. Finally, they decided to do a CAT scan and found she had ovarian cancer that had spread to other organs. She started 6 months of chemo, followed by 6 months of radiation.
This book is her story - about how she endured the endless treatments and side effects, went through deep depression, the love between her and her husband, and how she got her joy back. It's a sad story because it is apparent that had she been diagnosed earlier, or had doctors looked back into her family's history (which is plagued with cancer) they may have been able to stop the progression sooner.
I didn't know anything about the woman or her illness. I have done some research later and realized that it is because of her that many woman have since gotten early detection for Ovarian cancer and her husband never let up on his plight to continue fighting her cause.

To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee

2009-01-30T08:18:00.001-05:00

I have read this book now at least three times. I decided to re-read it recently because my husband just finished reading it for his first time and I couldn't resist pulling it off the shelf to bury myself in the story of Scout, Atticus, Jem and Boo Radley.
Side note: If you haven't read this book, don't let my mom know. Within a few days you'll have a package from Amazon sitting at your door with the book inside. That's exactly what happened to Josh.

Set in a small Alabama town many years ago, this book follows the lives of 8-year old Scout, her older brother, their lawyer father and the mysterious neighbor Boo Radley. Everything in the town is slow moving, neighborly and with a severe undertone of racism. The story starts off mostly in character development of tomboy Scout, older and wiser Jem and their funny little summer neighbor, Dill. The spend the summer trying to learn more about their absent and mysterious neighbor Boo Radley. When school starts up, other families and characters are introduced and Scout learns the hard way about the right way to treat others and how to act like a lady. Over the summer, times get a bit tougher for the Finch family. Atticus takes on the case of Tom Robinson, a black man who is accused of raping a young white woman. Most people in the community rage against the kids and Atticus for being "negro lovers" and as the trial begins, Atticus continues to fight for what he knows is right and Scout and Jem are forced to live with things beyond their understanding.

Atticus Finch may be the most upstanding fictitious character in any book I have read. The story makes you laugh aloud but is also touching and heartbreaking.

Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog - John Grogan

2009-01-13T13:20:00.000-05:00

I have had this book for over a year and just couldn't bring myself to read it. The ending is about as surprising as that of the Titanic's and I just wasn't sure I was ready for that kind of emotional involvement. With all the movie hype, I took the plunge and started and finished the book the same day.
Marley - sweet, adorable and crazy Marley. And I thought we had dog problems!
John and his wife adopt Marley early into their marriage. Throughout his life, he is right in the thick of things as they bring three more (human) children into the family, move twice, and change jobs. There is no way I can tell the stories the way Grogan does, and truthfully, I'd ruin the pure comic relief of this book by trying. Plainly stated, Marley is nuts. The stories of his life are laugh-out-loud funny and if you are a dog owner...it is so easy to relate to some of them.
Yes, the story is immensely sad at the end. But that knowledge shouldn't stop you from reading this book, the way it did me. It was well worth the read. Unlike, The Reader, I think I will stay away from this movie. My own images of Marley bounding through the back yard after a bunny and escaping from his cage are enough.

(And of course I had to post me with my two pups, Dexter and Harper, and their best friend Peanut)

American Wife - Curtis Sittenfeld

2009-01-13T12:41:00.000-05:00

Though I read the prologue and the reviews on the back of this book, I was well into the novel before I realized that this is a book loosely based on Laura Bush. After the realization, it was obvious and still makes me curious as to what parts are real, and what parts are fiction.

Alice Lindgren is brought up in modest means in Riley, WI. She lives a fairly normal life until she is involved in a car accident that kills her first crush. This event scripts the next few years of her life. Every relationship and every decision seem to be hinged upon the guilt she carries with her and the constant question of what would have happened between her and Andrew Imhoff had he not perished in that crash. Years later, she meets Charlie Blackwell. He is lovingly pompous, funny, and the life of the party. Alice can hardly believe how interested he is in her. Their relationship escalates quickly and within months, they are engaged. Her life as an elementary school librarian is replaced by being the wife of a man running for congress. Though Charlie loses, her role becomes that of his wife. His family is wealthy, in charge of a large meat producing company, and very involved in both state and national politics. Though Charlie has a great wife and daughter and a good job, he never feels like he stacks up to his father or brothers' legacies. As his Princeton 20 year reunion approaches, he becomes more and more anxious of doing something that he can be proud of. It is then that he purchases the Brewers. He drinks every night, is rude to Alice and at the reunion, falls back into habits that Alice refuses to live with. When she threatens to leave him, he finds God and is born again into a man that she can love.

Fast forward to the White House (that's essentially what happens in the book). Alice is first lady, Ella (their daughter) is in investment banking and there is a very unpopular war going on. Any of this sound familiar?
Anyone who knows me knows that I am not a fan of GWB and have never really had much of an opinion of Laura Bush. If this book truly depicted her life, my opinion of Laura would elevate. I love Alice Lindgren - from her upbringing, to her ability to maintain her own beliefs, even if they don't support her husband's. Her story is so interesting that despite its length, the book flies by. I think it's time for me to Wikipedia Laura Bush to see if I can learn more about her life before she become first lady.