When Crickets Cry

When Crickets Cry
by Charles Martin
Thomas Nelson Publishing, 2006, 336 pgs. Fiction

Set in a small southern town, this is the story of a man trying to hide from his past and a young girl clinging as hard as she can to life. They meet one afternoon at the lemonade stand where she is trying to earn money for her mounting medical bills. Little do either of them realize that their lives will be forever changed after this small encounter.

This novel takes readers on a journey to discover the capacity and resilience of the human heart. Strong Christian values are woven beautifully into the everyday lives of the characters as they struggle to overcome their individual challenges and as broken hearts are mended in unexpected ways.

I really enjoyed this book. It is about having hope or finding it again once it has been lost. The characters were very realistic and I felt like I was experiencing everything right along with them. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a heartwarming, inspirational book.

AL

The Secret Journal of Brett Colton

THE SECRET JOURNAL OF BRETT COLTON
Kay Lynn Mangum
Deseret Book, 2005. 334 p. Young Adult

Kathy’s brother is dead. But, he’s all anyone ever talks about and it infuriates her. Don’t they realize dead means gone? She was only two years old when he died and consequently doesn’t even remember him. However, any and all family occasions always end up in hours of reminiscing about how great Brett Colton was—which definitely leaves Kathy out. And the distance between her and the rest of her family only grows as Kathy enters high school.

But, on her sixteenth birthday Kathy's mother gives her a present which Brett left behind with specific instructions. Inside the chest she finds an old journal he wrote specifically for her before he died. Through the journal she meets her brother again--reawakening long forgotten memories--and begins to discover why everyone thought he was so special and why he was so interested in the Mormon church. Through Brett's perspective she starts to realize just how important her family truly is. Now all Kathy needs to do is convince them that Mormons aren’t bad people. Ironically, the super handsome football star she tutors is also Mormon and with his help maybe the Colton family can discard their prejudices and start loving again. A nice coming-of-age novel with a faith promoting conclusion.

• Book Club sets available

DAP

The Elegance of the Hedgehog

THE ELEGANCE OF THE HEDGEHOG
Muriel Barbery / trnsltd by Alison Anderson
Europa Editions, 2008. 325 p. Fiction

With a title of such exquisite perfection, what follows can either be esoteric nonsense or an ambrosial cocktail of language the very gods of literature would weep to hear--and I venture it is the latter. Moreover, it’s funny--the most delirious joy of humor. At first I despaired and believed I would need another course in Philosophy to understand it, and I’ve done that—twice. But still I needed a dictionary and a google search and more brain than I can find currently. But persevere and as in all good things, your patience will be rewarded.

Oh yes, the story. Well, it has to do with a middle-aged, French concierge named Madame Michel and a very intelligent little girl who lives in her oh-so exclusive building and is possessed of an existential angst and in the middle of living in their separate worlds along comes a Japanese gentleman called Monsieur Oku who brings them together. Because he understands them. That is all. But it is everything--the crux of our desire. And of course there is the hedgehog, which either plays a very small role or a very large one depending on how you look at it. It's an award-winning international best-seller.

Within a book where on every page you find a beautiful line, and almost always two and usually three, it was difficult to choose, but “…the aristocracy of the heart is a contagious emotion,” is merely one such sublime example of syntax to whet your appetite.

Maybe Barbery is the reason words were created as the luscious quality of her writing is akin to poetic brilliance. What could only have made the experience more lovely would be to have read it in the original French, but perhaps the already "silken" syllables would have rendered it too beautiful to bear. Please…read this book. And then call me and we’ll have a cup of tea with some patisserie and look at a camellia. Remember it is French, a people who do not believe in happy endings.

DAP

Shane

Shane
By Jack Schaefer
Houghton Mifflin, 1954. 214 pgs. Western


When a mysterious man rides onto his father’s farm, young Bob Starrett feels a strange combination of fear and admiration. Joe Starrett invites the traveler, who introduces himself simply as Shane, to stay on for a while as hired help on the small farm. Shane stays and becomes involved in the valley’s land war which eventually becomes deadly.

This is a seminal western novel. Complete with a mysterious and lonely hero, a lawless wild west setting, and don’t forget a little gunplay. I can’t say this was my favorite book ever, the author does seem to ramble on a bit, but it was quick and entertaining.

CZ

On Writing

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
By Stephen King
Scribner, 2000. 288 pgs. NonFiction

This book consists of three sections. The first is a highly entertaining autobiography of King’s early life and road to publication. The second consists of blunt but valuable advice for aspiring writers. A short third sections describes the author’s recovery after being struck by a van while walking near his home in 1999.

I listened to the sound recording read by Stephen King himself, which, I believe, added a lot to the experience. I would recommend this to readers and writers alike. I think my favorite words of advice dispensed by King are that great writers read extensively and write constantly. I completely agree!

CZ

Angel's Game

Angel’s Game
By Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Doubleday, 2009. 531 pgs. Fiction

Taking place at an earlier time but in the same dark Barcelona that was introduced in The Shadow of the Wind, Angel’s Game takes its readers on a gothic tale of impossible love, impending doom, and intriguing mystery. David Martin has locked himself within an abandoned mansion deep in the heart of Barcelona. His troubled youth and the dark atmosphere he surrounds himself in feed his imagination and produce sensational and popular novels. But the dreary house begins to seep into his consciousness. Martin finds himself becoming a part of its mystery and races to find an escape before he loses himself completely.

It is always fun to read about the magic and power of books. Both of Zafon’s recent novels are set in a world of literature that I find captivating. I recommend reading them in the order they were published since some characters and settings are revisited.

CZ

Sold

Sold
By Patricia McCormick
Hyperion Books, 2006. 263 pgs. Fiction

Thirteen-year-old Lakshmi leaves in the mountains of Nepal with her mother and step-father. Their family is so desperately poor that when poor weather and the gambling habits of her step-father threaten their very survival, Lakshmi has to leave their small town and work in the city. Although she was told that she would be working as a maid, she actually is forced into prostitution, owned by a ruthless woman who is determined to lie and cheat her way into keeping Lakshmi from returning to her home.

Told as a series of vignettes, this is a heartbreaking yet hopeful story based on extensive research by Patricia McCormick. Through short passages, Lakshmi provides enough narration to show the desperation she and her mother feel, trying to scrape up enough of living to survive. Lakshmi's pain, fear, and strength also come through clearly. Although not explicit, the book doesn't shy away from conveying the necessary aspects of prostitution. Beautifully written, this is a story that one hopes will be read and make readers aware of the horrible situation so many children in the world find themselves stuck in.

AE

Thanks for the Memories

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
Cecelia Ahern
Harper, 2009. 371 p. Fiction

After a life-saving blood transfusion, Joyce isn’t feeling quite herself. Well, naturally—given the tragedy of her disastrous miscarriage and eroding marriage. But she’s spouting off random architectural factoids of unknown origin and experiencing memories she’s never made. This seems beyond the normal grief pattern. And then there’s that handsome American man who keeps crossing paths with her. Could his blood donation of similar date have something to do with it? The coincidence seems…absurd, right?

With a premise that’s knowingly ridiculous, this story has modern-day fairy tale flavor. There’s something more here than the usual chick-lit fare. It’s a fun read, with lots of laughing-out-loud, but the saving grace is Joyce’s father. With an appealing eccentricity, he steals the show and this dearly odd Irishman and his bits of stored up wisdom will warm the cockles of your heart. Expletives included.

DAP

Hunger: a Gone novel

Hunger: a Gone novel
By Michael Grant
HarperTeen, 2009. 590 pgs. Young adult fiction.

In this gripping sequel to Gone, food shortage in the FAYZ, or Fallout Alley Youth Zone, is becoming a problem that desperately needs solving. The children have now survived 3 months in the strange state that consists of no person older than 14, a 20 mile barrier, and strange mutations that are affecting both children and animals. Caine and his followers are still vying for complete dominance and a rift between "mutants" and "normals" has begun to form, increasing the stress and frightening violence. On top of everything, the mysterious, terrifying presence is calling people to its aid with irresistable force.

This follow-up to Gone is every bit as action-packed and interesting. The drama and danger are both increased with all the new issues that have cropped up. As in the first book, there is much violence and death in Hunger. As with the first, I whipped through this novel--it's a dark, inventive adventure.

Gone

Gone
By Michael Grant
HarperTeen, 2008. 558 pgs. Young adult fiction.

Imagine a world that has snapped in a second from the world we know now to a world composed of no one older than 14. Even further, children are exhibiting strange powers, or mutations, many proving very dangerous. All of this world is contained within a small area that was Perdido Beach, California. As bullies and would-be dictators emerge, a hero is also reluctantly forced to step up. The resulting struggle between two groups of children, both with enormous powers on their side, is something both frightening and fascinating.

This book is a gritty, fast-paced, intense adventure. The characters are well-developed and many manage to endear themselves to the reader. There is strong violence in the story, much of it disturbing, so beware to sensitive or younger readers. Recommended for older teens and up.

Book of a Thousand Days

Book of a Thousand Days
By Shannon Hale
Bloomsbury, 2007. 305 pgs. Young Adult

On Dashti's first day as a lady's maid to Lady Saren, she swears to serve Saren no matter what. Even when she discovers Saren is to be shut up in a tower for seven years as punishment for refusing to marry Lord Khasar, Dashti remains true to her promise. Saren is a trying mistress--she's frightened of everything, incapable of being independent, and even irrational at times. However, Dashti, who has some talent as a healer, is determined to not only keep her lady alive but also to heal her of whatever hidden fears she has. Throughout their time in the tower and after they are free and head to the kingdom of Saren's betrothed, Khan Tegus, Dashti looks out for the best interest of Saren and demonstrates an inspiring resourcefulness.

Dashti's loyalty, practicality, and determination make her a charming narrator. Saren, on the other hand, can be frustrating, at least until Dashti finally discovers the very real cause for Saren's fears. Written in the format of Dashti's diary, the book can move somewhat slowly at times, but also remains true to Dashti's voice. A strong character, some twists and turns, and a handsome young man to boot all add up to a story worth reading.

AE

River Secrets

River Secrets
By Shannon Hale
Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2006. 290 pgs. Young Adult

Although the war between Bayern and Tira has ended, there is still unrest between the two kingdoms. In attempt to establish peace, the two countries exchange ambassadors, and Razo finds himself as part of the military accompaniment assigned to the Bayern ambassador as she heads to Tira. Razo struggles with doubting himself and why he was even chosen for the assignment, as he's small and not as skilled as the rest of the soldiers. Yet when problems arise--and big ones do quickly surface--Razo's captain trusts him to help figure out who is behind these actions that threaten to lead to war once more.

The third book in the Bayern series by Shannon Hale keeps the series fresh by turning to a different character and his struggles. Although Razo has played a role in The Goose Girl and Enna Burning, he gets his chance for center stage in this work. He's a lovable character with an enjoyable sense of humor. His struggle to figure out his own self-worth may be a common theme in Young Adult books, but as he goes about it while trying to save his country and his friends, it still has a fresh feel.

I listened to this book on CD and thoroughly enjoyed it. Of all the Bayern characters, Razo is one of my favorites, and the actor who provides the voice for Razo on the CDs is the one I like the most.

AE

Makeover

Makeover
By Shannon Guymon
Bonneville Books, 2007. 253 pgs. Romance

When hairstylist Sophie Reid goes to meet her missionary at the airport, only to find that he is engaged to someone else and didn't bother to tell her, she decides she needs some changes in her life. She starts with getting a new hairstyle and then tries to pump a little excitement into her life. While dealing with horrible relatives who scorn her for being beneath them, she finds happiness--and complications--when she meets Sam. He's handsome, successful, and seems interested in her, but he has a crazy ex-girlfriend determined to keep Sophie away from him at any cost.

As tends to happen in Shannon Guymon's novels, the resolutions to the conflict come a little too quickly and easily and the way that every single detail works out perfectly could be hard for some readers to stomach. However, it's a quick read that is light and happy and maybe will inspired readers to get a new hairstyle.

AE

Breathe

BREATHE: A NOVEL OF COLORADO
Lisa T. Bergren
David C. Cook, 2009. 400 p. Fiction

Consumption has taken the lives of nearly all the St. Clair family. Racked with the disease, Odessa barely manages to keep breathing on the train ride from Philadelphia to Colorado Springs. It’s 1883 and her last two remaining siblings, Dominic & Moira, are transporting their sister to this wild frontier town--which boasts a sanatorium famous for its success with consumptive patients. The future is uncertain, but the frontier seems to proffer new life for more than just Odessa. Saloon fighting, a new opera house and a handsome rancher are more than enough to consume the time and talents of all three St. Clair children. But several mysterious deaths surrounding the town's mining industry ensure the family will have to stick together in order to survive.

With a basis in historical fact, the 1st in the Homeward Bound trilogy offers adventure, mystery, and the promise of love within the framework of a gentle, Christian ideology.

DAP

Let the Great World Spin

Let the Great World Spin
by Colum McCann
Random House, 2009. 349 pgs. Fiction

Colum McCann begins this novel with a prescient quote from Aleksandar Hemon: "All the lives we could live, all the people we will never know, never will be, they are everywhere. That is what the world is." And indeed, McCann's glorious work is filled with voices--authentic voices--of people on the ground in New York City on the day Phillipe Petit was in the sky, walking a tightrope between the not-quite-completed twin towers of the World Trade Center. Petit's story weaves in and out of the other's: Corrigan, the Irish monk whose felt call is to the streetwalkers of the Bronx; the prostitutes themselves whose lives are richer and more terrible than one could know; the support group of women whose sons have died in Vietnam, linked to the judge in what will become the Petit case, and so on. How McCann brings all these people to life and makes their separate lives into one story is incomprehensible to me, but he does. If this book doesn't win the Pulitzer, someone needs to be smacked. (Caveat lector: The language and experiences are as raw as they need to be from time to time.)

Blood and Chocolate

Blood and Chocolate
By Annette Curtis Klause
Delacorte Press, 1997. 264 pgs. Young Adult

Vivian is a teenage werewolf whose pack is out of control. Following the murder of a human by a member of their pack, they are burned out of their home, and Vivian's father, the pack leader, dies in the fire. The pack has to relocate, and they're divided over who will be the new leader. Feeling frustrated with the reckless behavior that many pack members seem to accept, as well as the fights among one another over who will be the leader, Vivian feels isolated and turns to Aiden, a human who she can't help falling in love with. He's interested in magic and the mysterious, and Vivian hopes she can reveal her true identity to him. Although the pack disapproves, she is sure she can be her true self with him, even more than she can be with the pack. Life gets extra complicated for Vivian when someone in the pack murders a human, risking their exposure.


Fast-paced and intense, the descriptions and the violence, while realistic to a werewolf group, may be too descriptive for some readers. However, this might be a title that Twilight fans enjoy. It's an interesting take on forbidden love and discovering your own identity.

AE

Hard Love

Hard Love
By Ellen Wittlinger
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 1999. 224 pgs. Young Adult

John Galardi, Jr. has locked his emotions away, protecting himself from the pain of his parents' divorce. Although the divorce occurred six years before, he has a strained relationship at best with his father, and his mother refuses to touch him, edging away from any physical contact with him. Apathetic toward life in general, John does enjoy reading zines (homemade magazines) and even writing his own. When he gets a a chance to meet Marisol, a self-proclaimed Puerto Rican Yankee lesbian and the writer of his favorite zine, he jumps at the opportunity. As a strange and complicated friendship ensues, Marisol helps break down some of John's barriers.

Although a lot of the book centers on John's friendship with Marisol, I thought some of the most interesting aspects of the book were the aspects dealing with his relationships with his parents. As the title indicates, it deals with the complications of love and the recognition that things don't always work as desired.


AE

Robinson Crusoe

Robinson Crusoe
by Daniel Defoe
Modern Library, 2001. 320 pgs. Fiction.

Classic adventure with philosophical & theological musings. This is a great story. Everyone knows the story of Robinson Crusoe, but there are many interesting details in the story with which few are familiar. Crusoe takes to sea against the wishes of his father, who prophecies that his life will be one of misery and woe. He has several adventures before becoming deserted on an island for 28 years. If you've enjoyed the survival aspect of the film Castaway or the television series Lost, you may enjoy this novel.

Another aspect to the novel is the theological perspective presented by Crusoe's private ruminations as well as his conversations with "Friday"--a native whose life he saves.

I actually listened to this on CD (read by Jim Weiss) and was surprised at the colloquial language--it seemed more modern that I expected from something originally published in 1719.

SML

Sackett's Land

Sackett's Land
by Louis L'Amour
Saturday Review Press, 1974. 198 pgs. Fiction.

Barnabas Sackett is a farmer of the fens (agricultural lowlands in Eastern England) who has a run-in with a member of the minor nobility. Fortunately, he has also just discovered several ancient Roman coins and seeks to parley them into trading opportunities in the New World. Unfortunately, his first trip to the New World is as a prisoner. From the Fens to London, out to sea, and in the New World, Barnabas' trianing and education from his father stay him in good stead.

Not your typical western, Sackett's Land is the start of a saga that stretches through 17 novels by Louis L'Amour. A quick, enjoyable read.

SML

True Believer

True Believer
By Virginia Euwer Wolff
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2001. 264 pgs. Young Adult

LaVaughn's life has been pretty stable for years. She has been friends with Annie and Myrtle since they were little, and LaVaughn and her mother have been planning since fifth grade that LaVaughn will go to college and get away from their run-down, dangerous neighborhood and be able to have a better life. Life starts to have some unpleasant surprises, though. LaVaughn's mother begins dating, Annie and Myrtle are becoming distant and condemning as they join a fanatical club dedicated to Jesus, and while taking the classes and learning the skills that she needs to succeed in life, LaVaughn is accused of being "uppity." One of the biggest obstacles she faces is Jody, a former friend who has moved back into the neighborhood. Only this time, LaVaughn's feelings go beyond friendship, and her struggle to deal with her feelings for him could get in the way of her other goals.

A novel-in-verse about triumph and overcoming obstacles, this book is inspirational without being preachy. It's a good book about persevering, recognizing your mistakes, figuring out what you believe in, and dealing with other people. Although it's the second book in a trilogy (following Make Lemonade), readers will likely be able to follow the story line even without having read the first book.


AE

The First Part Last

The First Part Last
By Angela Johnson
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2003. 131 pgs. Young Adult

When sixteen-year-old Bobby finds out that his girlfriend, Nia, is pregnant, his life changes. Unprepared for parenthood, visits to the doctor, and all else that the pregnancy entails, Bobby and Nia are planning to give their baby up for adoption. However, Bobby ends up keeping their daughter, Feather, and raising her as a single parent while trying to finish high school.

Readers will appreciate the emotional honesty of this book. Highly acclaimed author Angela Johnson shows the difficulty of teenage parenthood as Bobby tries to raise his daughter but also wishes someone would rescue him on the days when he's tired and worn-out and feeling too young to have a baby. It's a book that gives the reader a lot to think about.

AE

Why We Buy

Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping
By Paco Underhill
Simon & Schuster, 2000. 255 pgs. Nonfiction

Why do people pick up this shampoo and not that one? How does the layout of a store affect the purchase patterns of its customers? How do men’s shopping habits differ from women’s? Underhill approaches topics such as these, trying to explain the consumer mind and how corporations can use that information to improve their effectiveness and increase their profits.

I listened to the audio production of this work which was produced in 2008. I really enjoyed the first few disks but was confused several times when technology was discussed in a way that seemed a little dated. For example, the author predicted that sometime in the future, everyone would have a cell phone and it would no longer be considered a yuppie gadget. After a while, I looked at the packaging a little closer and found the actual copyright date of 2000, which all of the sudden made a lot of things make a lot more sense. Though some of the later predictions and recommendations are dated, Underhill still has some excellent points that many businesses would do well to incorporate into their retail practices.

CZ

The Devil's Company

The Devil’s Company
By David Liss
Random House, 2009. 369 pgs. Fiction

Benjamin Weaver is back in this third installment of his adventures as thieftaker extraordinaire. It is 1722, just a few months after the events recorded in “A Spectacle of Corruption” and Weaver finds himself once again at the center of intrigue and deception. His closest friends and family have been threatened with ruin if he doesn’t infiltrate the mighty British East India Company. Benjamin Weaver is not the type of man to be made a pawn in someone else’s schemes but he is also desperate to keep those he loves from harm.

If you enjoy historical fiction and spy adventures, David Liss may be an undiscovered treasure. His attention to detail and historical accuracy is impressive and his intricate plots are filled with unexpected twists and turns. I recommend reading this series in order, beginning with “A Conspiracy of Paper” which won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel.

CZ

Eat This, Not That!

EAT THIS, NOT THAT!: The Best (& Worst!) Foods in America!
David Zinczenko w/ Matt Goulding
Rodale, c2009. 420 p. Non-Fiction

The latest compact book in this popular series offers enjoyable, readable text in bite-sized packets of information. Easy on the brain’s digestive system and with its claim to save you up to 30 pounds a year or more, what’s not to love? I learned that eating popcorn right before bedtime helps your slumber (I knew it!) and that the Hostess Chocolate Pudding Pie is the absolute worst pastry on the planet—go figure. All the best ‘stealth health’ and superfoods included.

But shock, dismay and gastrointestinal disorder are only some of the effects you’ll feel after reading this tasty little volume. You might find out your preferred restaurant and/or favorite treat is propelling you towards an early grave. Calorie, fat, and sodium counts given for beloved menu items at all the big mainstream chains. And lots of grocery store items are examined too. But, the bonus is in the food swaps section--you’ll learn which is the better burger to buy at your favorite, local joint. A useful guide to keep in the car.

Great for foodies, it's not a volume to read before dinner. This little guy is replete with delectable color photos of all the ‘worst’ foods and your brain might not win out against your stomach in a war with impending starvation.

DAP

Endpoint and Other Poems

Endpoint and Other Poems
by John Updike
Knopf, 2009. 97 pgs. Poetry

Updike's final volume of verse begins with his nearing death. In birthday poems to himself he wryly laments his lost youth, the joys, beauties, and sorrows of a life rich in living and in letters. What must have been his last poem, written in December of 2008 (he died in January) is the hardest to take " . . . The tongue reposes in papyrus please,/saying, Surely--magnificent, that "surely"--/goodness and mercy shall follow me all/the days of my life, my life, forever. After that opening, the book lightens as he wonders in a tightly knit sonnet how tool manufacturers ever turn a profit (". . . Their stubborn shapes pervade the cellar,/ enduring with a thrift that shames our wastrel lives") or what the Mars Rovers might signal to one another: "'There's life, by all the stars above,/On Mars--it's you and I!'/Blithe Spirit cried, 'Let's rove, my love,/And meet before we die!'" Another great one gone, alas.

LW

Lonesome Dove

Lonesome Dove
By Larry McMurtry
Simon & Schuster, 1985. 945 pgs. Fiction.

Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call are former Texas Rangers who own a cattle company in south Texas. Having hunted Indians and tamed most of Texas in their younger years, the two regard this time in their life differently—Gus is content to drink whiskey and spend time with the local prostitute, Lorena, while Call only works all day long. Restless and ready for a new opportunity, Call decides to steal cattle from Mexico and drive them to Montana (where he’s never been) to establish a ranch and see a new country. Gus and Call recruit local cowboys for their journey and set off, having many adventures and meeting old and new friends along the way. During the journey, Call confronts harsh truths about himself and Gus deals with the two women in his life.

I had never read a western before this, but I loved it. I loved the friendship between the two men and their adventure. The writing was incredible (it won a Pulitzer Prize) and the story great. I wasn’t ready for the book to end when it did. And the ending was memorable, concluding with a story and a word that was unexpected, touching, and funny.

MN

The Chocolate War

The Chocolate War
By Robert Cormier
Pantheon Books, 1974. 253 pgs. Young Adult

Trinity, an all-boys school, is ruled by a secret society, the Vigils--a group of ruthless boys who enjoy making other boys complete "assignments." When the school has its annual chocolate sale, the Vigils pledge their support to a teacher, and although it's a secret, the school seems to know. So when freshman Jerry Renault refuses to sell chocolates, he has pitted himself against the Vigils, who are determined not to let anyone undermine their authority.

Although this book is highly acclaimed and many consider it a modern classic, I personally did not enjoy it. It had somewhat of a Lord of the Flies type feel to it, and the cruelty and violence of the Vigils, while believable, was repulsive to me. Even Jerry as the protagonist wasn't very appealing to me; I never really developed any sort of connection to him. However, some readers may find the plot intriguing and get more out of it than I did.

AE

The Help

The Help
By Kathryn Stockett
G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2009. 451 pgs. Fiction.

This wonderful debut novel by Kathryn Stockett takes place in Jackson, Mississippi in the early 1960s during the civil rights movement. The story in narrated by three different women.

Aibileen is a black maid who has raised 17 white children, but something changed inside her after she lost her own boy, who had wanted to write a book about being black in Mississippi.

Minny, another black maid, has never been able to control her mouth around the white women she works for and has lost yet another job. She finally gets a new job with a women named Celia who doesn’t know about Minny’s reputation because of her own ostracism from society.

The only white narrator is Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelen who having recently graduated from college and returned home to her parents’ cotton farm hopes to become a writer. Somewhat an outsider because she is not married, Skeeter is at first unaware of the racial tensions in Jackson. But after Skeeter is forced to write a column for the local women's league about the need to build separate bathrooms for black help because of the diseases “colored” people carry, she seeks out Aibileen to help write a book told from the black help’s perspective on working for white women.

One of the best parts of this novel is watching the trust develop between Skeeter and Aibileen and Minny and Celia.

This novel is very well written. There were a few times I paused just to marvel at the language of the novel. It is also surprisingly a page-turner (a rare thing for literary fiction). I would particularly recommend listening to this novel, the southern accents of the three narrators enhance the already pitch-perfect characters.

AJ

Against All Odds

Against All Odds
By Barbara Riefe
Forge, 1997. 286 pgs. Fiction

Lucy Scott Mitchum wasn’t sure how she felt about California. But that’s were she was going. Ever since they’d left the security of their life back east…ever since they’d packed all their belongings, taken their little family, and started on the trail west, Lucy and her husband, Noah, had talked of nothing but their future.

California was paradise, and unlimited opportunity, and untold riches. But before the promise of California, there would be endless miles of prairie and mountain, swollen rivers and Indians, disease and madness.

This was an interesting gold rush story. At times I felt like I was on the trail with this family as they experienced long days, heartache, and the exhilaration of reaching the Sacramento Valley.

AMM

Parade of Shadows

Parade of Shadows
By Gloria Whelan
HarperCollins Publishers, 2007. 295 pgs. fiction

Adventurous, but naïve, Julia Hamilton embarks on a journey with her father through Istanbul, Damascus and other cities of the Levant. Her widowed father, Carlton Hamilton, traveling undercover for the British government is willing to have her come as a “cover” for his journey but also discovers how very much he needed this trip to strengthen his relationship to her. Julia’s sheltered life has ill-prepared her to fathom the motives of her companions, she is quick to trust but slow to see the consequences of her actions.


Set one hundred years ago in the Middle East, Whelan’s writing about the area is accurate and atmospheric. In spite of the intrigues surrounding the journey and the secret goals of the travelers, this book is not a fast-paced adventure. But Julia is headstrong and likeable and there is a touch of romance along with the intrigue which adds another layer of appeal to this teen historical fiction.

Shadow of the Wind

Shadow of the Wind
By Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Penguin Press, 2004. 486 pages. Mystery

Daniel Sempere was raised by his father in a small book store in the middle of Barcelona. He learns early the power of books and finds great joy in losing himself within their pages. One book in particular captures his heart and mind and as he grows, so does his desire to discover the fate of the book’s author, Julian Carax, and uncover the identity of the strange phantom-like figure whose sole purpose seems to be the destruction of all Carax’s works.

Part thriller, part mystery, part romance and part historical fiction, this book has a little bit of everything. It did take me a little bit to really get into the story, but once I did, I was completely hooked. The plot is twisted and at times dark though it is equally humorous and entertaining. I can’t say the end was completely unexpected, but the path getting there was filled with surprises.

CZ

Helen of Troy

Helen of Troy
By Margaret George
Viking, 2006. 611 pgs. Historical Fiction

This book follows the life of Helen, born Helen of Sparta though known throughout history as Helen of Troy. Her legend is well known as the woman whose face launched a thousand ships and whose beauty caused the 20 year siege and eventual fall of Troy. George gracefully presents this epic story and the larger than life heroes that fought during the legendary battle including Achilles, Paris, Hector, and Menelaus.

Margaret George truly is a master of her art. The incredible amount of research necessary to present this sweeping story with such a detail alone is impressive. I was not that familiar with this legend, beyond the basics, and enjoyed watching the plot unfold. The novel is told in Helen’s voice and I did grow tired of her illogical passion for Paris and their constant justifications of their actions despite the fatal consequences. But, I would still recommend this book to historical fiction fans.

CZ

A Northern Light

A Northern Light
By Jennifer Donnelly
Harcourt,Inc., 2003. 389 pgs. Young Adult

Mattie Gokey has the talent to be a writer and a scholarship to help her go to college. However, with her mother dead, her father needs her to help with her younger sisters and the farm in the Adirondack region of New York. Neighbor boy Royal Loomis, handsome but uninterested in books, further complicates things for Mattie when he begins courting her. Mattie spends her summer working at the Glenmore hotel, and one day, a guest winds up dead--a guest who left some letters with Mattie, asking her to burn them. As Mattie deals with this young woman's death and the letters she possesses, she also has to face some realizations about her own life.

Well-written and inspiring, this book takes place in 1906, incorporating facts from a murder that actually happened in upstate New York. Although the murder plays a part in the book, the driving reason to read this book is the wonderful protagonist. Mattie so realistic--her hopes and disappointments and struggles so well-portrayed. The organization of the book, which starts on the day of Grace Brown's death and then has flashbacks to early points in Mattie's life, sets up its own kind of mystery; beyond just wondering what will happen with Grace Brown, the reader also gets to piece together what Mattie will do about her dreams and the obstacles in her way. This was a book I didn't want to put down and definitely want to read again.

AE

The Time Traveler's Wife

THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE
Audrey Niffenegger
MacAdam/Cage Pub., 2003. 518 p. Fiction

Henry (time traveling Librarian boy) and Claire (a Boticelli look-alike paper artist) simply want what everyone wants—love. But Henry has a rare disease known as “chrono-displacement disorder” which makes living a normal life impossible. His disorder causes him to time travel involuntarily and there is no cure. Sounds kitschy? Not even close. ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ is both a mathematical and literary work of art. The intricacies of constant time travel could be confusing, but Niffenegger handles the back and forth of each chapter with genius and melds past and present situations with elegant ease. It has everything a great work should include: comedy, drama, humanity and tragedy with characters of endearing and enduring substance. One of the most thrilling and disparate love stories I’ve ever read. Beautifully written.

It might be hyperbole to say this is a romance to rival Romeo and Juliet, but it's close. And yet, I cannot recommend it to any but the more liberal readers. Use of strong language and frequent love scenes make it a mature selection. I didn’t want to love it, but I think I do. Can the forthcoming movie ever do this novel justice? Unlikely, but here’s hoping it comes close.

DAP

The Blessing Way

The Blessing Way
By Tony Hillerman
HarperTorch, 1970. 284 pgs. Mystery

The first book in the Joe Leaphorn/Jim Chee mystery series has Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn, of the Navajo Tribal police, investigating a murder with seemingly no clues. The murder victim turns up hundreds of miles from anyone, with no suspects, no tracks, and no clues. At the same time, Bergen McKee visits the area to do academic research regarding Navajo myths involving the Navajo Wolf-Witch. While Bergen is doing his research, talking to the Navajos about suspicious activity in their area, some of the Navajos are preparing to go on a witch hunt. Joe Leaphorn has to piece together his case and find the suspected witch before someone else winds up dead.

Characterization is a weak point in this novel; you never really get a clear picture of the main characters. The plot, however, is interesting, and Hillerman successfully mixes Navajo beliefs with skepticism, making the reader wonder if things previously believed not to exist--like Navajo Wolves--really do exist. The book seemed to end a bit abruptly, and some background in Navajo rituals and ceremonies might make the book more meaningful, but all in all, the book is enjoyable. A combination Western and mystery, the book provides adventure in the outdoors as well as the creepy feeling down your spine that makes a mystery good.

AE

Catalyst

Catalyst
By Laurie Halse Anderson
Viking, 2002. 232 pgs. Young Adult

Kate Malone has a lot to live up to--she's the preacher's daughter, family caretaker, and a science and math whiz who has applied to her deceased mother's alma mater, MIT. She's also an expert at organizing her life and pushing her feelings aside. Having been wait-listed at MIT, though, makes her stress out about whether or not she'll be accepted, and then her enemy, Teri Litch, has to move in with her when Teri's house burns down. Suddenly, life is spinning out of control for Kate, and she just might not be able to handle it all.

Catalyst is an excellent book. Kate is genuine character and Anderson portrays human emotion well. The plot is gripping; the twists and turns and the way Kate deals with them are realistic. Subject matter and themes may be difficult for some readers, but they're ones that well-worth reading about and discussing.

I listened to this book on CD and would recommend that as well. Samantha Mathis was a great narrator and made the story one I wanted to keep listening to.

AE

Black Water Rising

BLACK WATER RISING
Attica Locke
HarperCollins, 2009. 427 pgs. Mystery

Jay Porter, former firebrand in the civil rights movement, lost his stomach for the fight when he was betrayed and nearly sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit. In Attica Locke's new character study/thriller, "Black Water Rising," Jay is forced out of his meager, under-the-radar life when he saves a woman from drowning in the bayous near Houston. Soon Jay and his wife are threatened by a thug who works for someone powerful and frightening who may or may not be involved with an upcoming dockworkers' strike. Complications multiply and Jay, in spite of his fears for himself, his wife, and their soon-to-be-born baby, fights back, at first tentatively, and then as his true self against corruption in high political and economic places. Grounded in rich character development and a firm sense of place, Black Water Rising is a thoughtful and suspenseful book, a perfect transition from beach reading to the deeper waters of autumn.

LW

On the Road to Royalty

On the Road to Royalty
By Diane Crabtree

Spring Creek Book Company, 2205. 212 pgs. Young Adult

Sixteen-year-old Lisa has to deal with a normal teenage roller coaster ride of emotions: frustration when she has to give up her room and share a room with her little sister when their great-grandpa moves in; elation when her crush, Jared, asks her on a date; and jealousy when beautiful Whitney becomes friends with Lisa's two best friend and seems to be attracting some of Jared's attention.

This is a feel-good, happy-ending book for the LDS market. Lisa is an enjoyable protagonist, with a mixture of good qualities as well as some hints of stubbornness, selfishness, and self-absorption. The plot is somewhat predictable, but this book is a good one for an afternoon of light reading.

AE