Philosophical Baby: What Children’s Minds Tell Us About Truth, Love, and the Meaning of Life

Philosophical Baby: What Children’s Minds Tell Us About Truth, Love, and the Meaning of Life
By Alison Gopnik
Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2009. 288 pages. Nonfiction

Gopnik begins this fascinating work by reviewing the place of infants and young children in philosophical literature and how it has radically changed from the days of Jean Piaget and Sigmund Freud. The field of cognitive science is exploding as new advances in science and technology make us rethink time honored traditions about how the mind works. Gopnik takes the viewpoint of an evolutionary biologist as she tries to answer fundamental philosophical questions about how babies’ minds develop. Gopnik also emphasizes the difference between the minds of adults and children. Babies, of course, are more impressionable and pliable and that has advantages and disadvantages. Adults have more neural pathways that are specific and specialized which allow us to focus on tasks. To prove her point Gopnik describes watching a three year old try to get dressed, everything from the color of his socks to a speck of dusk on the carpet can be distracting. Gopnik and others in her field have even done experiments which prove that babies use types of statistical analysis and are even capable of pretend thinking, or to coin her more scientific turn of phrase, “counterfactual thinking.”

This was an absorbing read although it was definitely a jargon heavy book. At times I felt as if I was reading an especially interesting textbook. I enjoyed the fact that Alison Gopnik is a mother of three children and thus brought in various personal anecdotes to prove her points. Her enthusiasm for the subject shines through. In a way it was amusing to read about scientists validating what mothers have known for years, babies really are smart.

ALC

The Portable Dad

The Portable Dad: Fix-It Advice for when Dad’s Not Around
Steve Elliot
Running Press, c2009. 240 p. Nonfiction

Ever wanted to carry Dad around in your pocket? Well, now you can with the new Portable Dad—nope, not the latest action figure but a handy volume designed to help out when the handiest Dad is not to be found. You’ll find loads of basic advice for the times when you just need someone with a bit of practical wisdom. Chapters cover ‘Car Maintenance’, ‘Yard Work’ and ‘Computers’—there’s even a section devoted to ‘Plumbing’, the dreariest of home maintenance chores. Do you know what's the best thing for a sticky bike chain, how to fix a flat or whether you really need to bother with anti-virus software? Dad does. I learned how often to water the lawn. Elliot says, “If the grass bounces back up in your footprints it’s fine. If it doesn’t, it needs a drink.” It’s a fun, friendly read with a chatty, hipster style and some simple and useful diagrams. Great for college students, new home owners or those without a practical fix-it bone in their body.

DAP

Devil's Trill

Devil's Trill
Gerald Elias
Minotaur Books, 2009. 306 p. Mystery

The Devil’s Trill opens with a slightly lurid tale relaying the origins of the infamous ¾ length, 18th century Stradivarius violin known as the Piccolino. From there we’re off on an adventure that centers around the violin’s present day whereabouts and its startling theft from Carnegie Hall. Jacobus, a crotchety violin teacher whose blindness facilitates his exquisite musical ear, is the novel’s ingenious protagonist and recalcitrant detective. His leitmotif is that of an irreverent, sharp-tongued, philosophical music purist with an odd sense of humor and an interesting moral compass. Jacobus will uncover a number of mysteries during his frantic search for the 8 million dollar instrument but the most troubling is deciding whether his talented and lovely young Japanese student is somehow involved.

Bravo! As the Associate Concertmaster of the Utah Symphony, we’re proud to claim Elias as one of our own and a smattering of Utah references throughout the book will have the locals clapping. Some suggestive passages and a few lusty innuendos will make a tender reader blush, but mystery buffs and classical music lovers alike will delight in Gerald Elias’s performance--fine writing and some lovely musical expositions. After this rousing debut with shouts of Encore ringing in his ear, we’re hoping Elias’s second piece is soon finished. And as the author himself says of music, perhaps the book’s minor flaws will add to the work’s overall beauty instead of offering too-cold perfection.

DAP

Over a Thousand Hills I Walk with You

Over a Thousand Hills I Walk with You
By Hanna Jansen
Carolrhoda Books, 2006. 342 pgs. Young Adult

In this story of the Rwandan genocide, Jeanne is child enjoying life with her parents and siblings in Rwanda. However, political unrest disrupts their lives, and the Hutus begin masscacring the Tutsis and looting their property. Jeanne's family seeks shelter, but they instead find themselves surrounded by their enemies, and Jeanne witness the murder of several of her family members, as well as other Tutsis.

This book is based on a true story, written by Jeanne's adoptive mother. It alternates between first person commentary from Hanna Jansen and a third-person account of Jeanne's experience in Rwanda. I wasn't particularly drawn in by the style, but I think this is an important book to consider along with books about genocide in other areas of the world.

AE

Half Broke Horses: a True Life Novel

Half Broke Horses: a True Life Novel
by Jeannette Walls
Scribner, 2009. 272 pgs. Fiction/Nonfiction

Not quite busted broncs do indeed fill the pages of Walls' first-person retelling of her grandmother's life story, some equine, many human. Lily Casey Smith grew up in the still-quite-wild West in a dugout that dripped mud and spiders from the ceiling. Breaking horses at age six, she soon served as de facto foreman of her father's ranch since he had a speech impediment caused by a brain injury and her mother was more the retiring (read: shrinking violet) type. When she was fifteen she left home to teach school. When returning soldiers took all the teaching jobs she went to Chicago, met and married a "crumb bum" who was already married to someone else. Coming back home she married Big Jim Smith, one of fifty-two of Lot Smith's sons by eight wives and they raised two children, Little Jim and Rosemary, who is the Rose Mary of Walls' The Glass Castle. Lily is a poker-playing, bootlegging, bronc-busting schoolmarm who takes what comes and goes on. An authentic voice of the high desert country.

LW

Leviathan

Leviathan
by Scott Westerfeld
Simon & Schuster, 2009. 440 pgs. Young Adult

Westerfeld's latest is a steampunk, alternate history version of the beginnings of World War I. The female protagonist (Deryn) pretends to be a boy (Dylan) in order to join the British Air Corps and the male protagonist, Alek, is the fictional offspring of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and wife Sophie, who, without rights of inheritance after his parents are killed in Sarajevo, is pursued by both Austro-Hungarians and Germans though he seems to himself powerless. Here's the fun part: the Germanic forces come to battle in Clankers, elaborate machines, not unlike Star Wars' imperial walkers, while the Brits use darwinists--genetically engineered and formulated animals as their "engines" of battle. As you might expect, the Leviathan is a whale filled with hydrogen-generating entities, message-bearing lizards, and hydrogen sniffing creatures for leak detection. Alek and Deryn meet as presumed enemies under extreme circumstances and have to get past hostage situations, a breakneck slide down a zip line, and a last-minute retreat under enemy fire before forming an alliance which will continue in Book Two when the Leviathan escapes to the Ottoman Empire on an ultra-secret mission. Adventure abounds! Romance soon to follow!

LW

Double Take: A Memoir

Double Take: A Memoir
By Kevin Michael Connolly
HarperStudio, 2009. 227 pgs. Biography

Kevin Connolly was born without legs. His parents never treated him with kid gloves or allowed him to pity his situation. While trying to find a sport that he could enjoy and excel at, he discovered mono-skiing and eventually competed internationally. While traveling through Europe, Kevin found himself the object of many staring eyes sometimes filled with surprise, sometimes with curiosity, and often with pity. These looks fueled a type of passive revenge as he started photographing the looks from those passing him in streets around the world. Besides the cathartic therapy these pictures gave Kevin, they also resulted in a unique photo collection that has toured museums and galleries around the world.

This was a quick biography of a fascinating individual. Connolly’s honest appraisal of his feelings and actions are refreshing. He describes his difficulties without self-pity but doesn’t brush past his frustrations or insecurities. The photos included at the beginning of each chapter are as telling as his narrative. An inspiring look through the eyes of a uncommonly perceptive young man.

CZ

Superfreakonimics

Superfreakonomics: Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance
By Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner
William Morrow, 2009. 270 pgs. NonFiction

In this fascinating and entertaining follow-up to their bestselling book Freakonomics, Levitt and Dubner introduce more findings discovered through their study of microeconomics. Their irreverent investigations include statistically based advice on when is the best month to have a healthy baby or one who will play professional sports, whether to hope for a male or female ER doctor, how to keep your child safe in a car, and much more.

This is the best kind of nonfiction out there. It’s fun, engaging, gripping and completely surprising. Much like Malcolm Galdwell, Levitt and Dubner have a way of educating and entertaining so effectively they deserve the success they have enjoyed. I believe this second helping will be just as popular as their first. I enthusiastically recommend this book to anyone.

CZ

Her Fearful Symmetry

Her Fearful Symmetry
By Audrey Niffenegger
Scribner, 2009. 406 pgs. Fiction

When their all but unknown Aunt Elspeth dies of cancer, 20 year old twins Julia and Valentina inherit her entire estate. The inheritance is dependent on them living in Elspeth’s London flat for an entire year. The girls soon make friends with their neighbors. Upstairs is Martin, a brilliant man suffering from acute OCD and whose wife recently left him after years of tolerating his compulsive behavior and agoraphobia. Downstairs is Robert, Elspeth’s young grief stricken boyfriend. And finally, within their own apartment, Elspeth herself who, is now a ghost whose powers to interact with the world around her continue to grow.

After loving Niffenegger’s first novel, The Time Traveler’s Wife, I was extremely disappointed in her second. This book went from boring, to disturbing, to downright creepy. I had a very hard time relating to any of the characters. My favorite storyline turned out to be Martin, his OCD, and his attempts to reunite with his sweet wife. I doubt I will ever recommend this book to anyone.

CZ

Bed in a Tree and Other Amazing Hotels from Around the World

Bed in a Tree and Other Amazing Hotels from Around the World
By Bettina Kowalewski
DK. 2009. 239 pgs. Nonfiction

A handpicked selection of 27 extraordinary hotels from around the world. Every hotel offers an unforgettable and original place to stay. Hotels spotlighted include the Ice Hotel in Sweden, an actual bed in a tree, a room underwater, a wine barrel and even a night in a suitcase! Each hotel entry suggests three interesting, and often unusual, things to do nearby.

A few years ago I slept in a wigwam in Holbrook, AZ on Route 66. So when I saw this book, I knew I needed to check it out. I love the idea of staying in an unusual hotel and enjoyed “traveling” from Canada to Germany to South Africa as I explored this picturesque volume.

AMM

One Perfect Day: The Selling of the American Wedding

One Perfect Day: The Selling of the American Wedding
By Rebecca Mead
Penguin Press. 2007. 234 pgs. Nonfiction

In its nascence in the American lexicon, the term "Bridezilla" has inspired articles, reality television and watercooler tales of brides gone mad. This phenomenon piqued New Yorker staff writer Mead's interest, sending her on a three-year investigation of the current American wedding and the $161-billion industry that spawned it. "Blaming the bride," she writes, "wasn't an adequate explanation for what seemed to be underlying the concept of the Bridezilla: that weddings themselves were out of control." Interviewing wedding industry professionals and attending weddings in Las Vegas, Disney World, Aruba and a wedding town in Tennessee, Mead ventures beyond the tulle curtain to reveal moneymaking ploys designed around our most profound fears as well as our headiest happily-ever-after fantasies. Goods and services providers alter marital traditions—and even invent new ones—to feed their bottom line. Stores vie for bridal registry business in hopes of gaining lifelong customers. Women swoon for what retailers call "the 'Oh, Mommy' moment" in boutique fitting rooms—an unsettling contrast to the Chinese bridal gown factory workers who make them possible, sleeping eight to a room and scraping by on 30 cents an hour. Part investigative journalism, part social commentary, Mead's wry, insightful work offers an illuminating glimpse at the ugly underbelly of our Bridezilla culture.

This book was completely fascinating! I really enjoyed learning about the inner workings of the wedding industry. Mead takes us on a journey that often made me laugh out loud and at other times cringe at the way “Bridezilla” culture is taking over traditional American weddings.

AMM

The Forest of Hands and Teeth

The Forest of Hands and Teeth
By Carrie Ryan
Delacorte Press, 2009. 310 pgs. Young adult fiction.

Raised in a small, isolated village amidst a veritable forest of flesh-eating people who died and Returned after infection, Mary is driven by her curiosity and desire to go beyond the fenced boundaries. After her mother is infected and joins the Forest, Mary's whole world is turned upside down as she is forced to join the Sisterhood, the zealously devout organization that runs the village. Through her constant struggle to discover truth and find happiness, Mary finds herself and those she loves in the greatest danger imaginable.

This story was dark, consuming, and elegantly written. I was reeled in from the first page and kept in a constant sense of tension. Although I wished some of the story's aspects had been further developed, I truly enjoyed the book. I was very impressed with Ryan's captivating prose--I loved that she abstained from ever using the term "zombie;" I felt it was an excellent move and made the book far more intriguing. I am looking forward to further literature from this talented author.

CW

Confessions of a First Daughter

Confessions of a First Daughter
By Cassidy Calloway
HarperTeen, 2009. 214 pgs. Young Adult

Morgan Abbott has some problems—her boyfriend is moving too fast for her, her grades are pretty bad, and her mother is the President of the United States. Being the First Daughter throws Morgan in an unwanted spotlight and this problem is compounded by Morgan’s tendency to mess things up often. After several embarrassing situations, Morgan’s mom has had it with Morgan and Morgan is distressed by her mom’s lack of time for her. A new, cute Secret Service agent is assigned to Morgan, which causes further problems. When Morgan learns that her mom’s mission to Africa has been cancelled, she steps forward with a plan to help her mom out.

This was a great, fluffy, fun read. Morgan is a likeable heroine and her troubles ring true for every teen, daughter of the president or not. Fans of Meg Cabot’s will enjoy this as well. Although one particular issue was not cleared up, an in-the-works sequel might clear it up.

MN

A Curse Dark as Gold

A Curse as Dark as Gold
By Elizabeth C. Bunce
Arthur A. Levine Books, 2008. 395 pgs. Young Adult

In this retelling of Rumpelstiltskin, Charlotte Miller's father has died, leaving her and her younger sister Rosie to try to keep their mill running. The Stirwaters mill has always seemed to have bad luck--and villagers talk of a curse on the mill--but Charlotte is determined to save the mill. Even though she vehemently disbelieves the rumors of a curse, bad things keep happening at the mill, and Charlotte, facing the loss of the mill if she defaults on her mortgage, turns to the help of a stranger who can spin straw into gold. While the dark and unnatural Jack Spinner does help them, Charlotte soon finds herself risking life, love, and family to save the mill from the grasp of evil.

This was a deliciously chilling fractured fairy tale. Charlotte and her friends are delightful--spunky, funny and charming. Jack Spinner sent a chill up my spine, and the elements of magic and romance were intriguing. This is definitely one for fans of fractured fairy tales to check out.

AE

Feed

Feed
By M.T. Anderson
Candlewick Press, 2002. 237 pgs. Science Fiction

In a future time, where most people have computer implants called feeds in their heads, Titus and his friends escape the boredom of earth life by taking a trip to the moon. While there, Titus meets a new girl, Violet, who is different from the rest of his friends. As they begin to get to know each other, a hacker hacks into their feeds. While this ends up giving Titus more time to interact with Violet as they are in the hospital recovering, it also leads to unexpected--and tragic--results.

Anderson's futuristic novel is an excellent look at how technology impacts our lives; it gives plenty to consider as far as what our future may be. However, this may be a difficult book for those who are not true scifi fans to digest, and the slang, while necessary to demonstrate how extensively the feed has limited people's ability to think for themselves, can be overwhelming. Watch for strong language.

AE

The Miles Between

The Miles Between
By Mary E. Pearson
Henry Holt, 2009. 266 pgs. Young Adult.

Destiny believes in numbers and coincidences. She also believes that her parents don’t want her anymore; her parents are so detached that they ship her to a new school when the school wants something from them. So Destiny doesn’t make any friends; it’s too hard to get attached. However, Destiny believes that this day, Oct. 19, might be different, although it is the day she was sent away ten years ago.

The difference is in the old-fashioned pink convertible that sits running on the lawn as Destiny ditches class. And in the way that three of her classmates, including smooth Seth, are around and available as she is ready to leave the school in the car. The difference is also in the small lamb they find on the road and dub “Lucky.” It is also in the chance encounter one of them has with the president of the United States. And in the way the four are reaching out and becoming friends. Can all of these differences add up to the perfect and fair day that Destiny needs? Can this fair day help her confront her parents?

Some readers might feel that all these chance and perfect parts of Destiny’s day are too unbelievable and strain the plot. But I think, knowing what I know now, that they enhance a lovely redemption tale.

MN

The Siege

The Siege
by Stephen White
Dutton, 2009. 394 pgs. Fiction

When several students from prominent families go missing towards the end of Yale University's pledge week for secret societies, the police are soon involved, but no one knows where the kids have gone until one appears on the steps of a society's "tomb" with a red rectangular box strapped to him that says "BOMB." When the authorities don't bring local cell phone towers up within five minutes of the young man's appearance, his kidnapper detonates the bomb and the young man dies. What follows is a hostage situation where the hostage taker runs almost totally counter to true--makes no public demands; kills some students and releases others apparently willy nilly, but always anticipating each move and response by law enforcement. Told from both first and third person perspectives, The Siege is a cerebral thriller both plot and character driven, with immensely likeable characters working (and thinking) frantically as they try to figure out how to save the remaining students. Boffo!

LW

The House of the Scorpion

The House of the Scorpion
By Nancy Farmer
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2002. 380 pgs. Young Adult

To most people, Matteo Alacran is sub-human, a monster. Created from the DNA of El Patron, a powerful drug lord who rules Opium, a country between the U.S. and the former Mexico, Matt is a clone. For the early years of his life, Matt was hidden away from everyone except for Celia, his caretaker and the cook at the Alacran estate. Later, though, he is moved to the Alacran house, where most people hate him and some even try to harm him. As Matt learns more about the estate and the Alacran family, he also learns more about himself and El Patron--and what exactly it is that El Patron has planned for him.

This futuristic dystopia is well-grounded in today's reality; although it takes place sometime in the future, Farmer has built on our known world in a way that makes this book accessible even to those like me--admittedly very reluctant to read Science Fiction. Matt and his friends are likable characters and there are many interesting discussion points that arise from this book, such as what it means to be human.


AE

Warbreaker

Warbreaker
By Brandon Sanderson
Tor, 2009. 592 pgs. Fantasy

Princess Vivenna’s entire life has been spent preparing to comply with her father’s peace treaty with the powerful neighboring nation of Hallandren. Her task will be to marry the Hallandren God King and provide an heir. But when the time comes for the wedding to take place, her younger sister Siri is sent in her place. Vivenna quickly decides to follow Siri to protect her from her unexpected fate. Both sisters are quickly drawn into a world of intrigue and deception which neither are prepared to navigate.

My favorite aspect of Sanderson's work is his ability to create characters that are relatable and endearing. And though this was not my favorite of his books, I felt the magic was a bit difficult to envision and the narration had a tendency to drag in places, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this stand alone work to readers looking for a good fantasy.

CZ

The Burning Bridge

The Burning Bridge
By John Flanagan
Philomel Books, 2006. 262 pgs. Young Adult

Will and Horace are traveling through neighboring villages on Araluen business when they realize that the villages have been abandoned. They come across Evalyn, a girl who escaped capture from the Wargals, who tells them the truth of the villages. Morgarath is on his way to attack Araluen, and he is making sure no one will be able to come to their aid.

The cliff hanger ending makes me glad that the third book in the Ranger’s Apprentice series has already been published.

KK

In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger: a behind-the-counter look at the fast-food chain that breaks all the rules
Stacy Perman
Collins Business, c2009. 345 p. Nonfiction

And you thought it would never happen. Well, rumors have been confirmed and it’s all true. In-N-Out Burger’s iconic, yellow arrow is pointing directly at our friendly neighbors in Orem, Utah (which means passionate fans will no longer need to road trip down to Vegas to get their In-N-Out fix). Now as we wait for the mass hysteria to die down, let me tell you about the latest book I read featuring the history of this famous California landmark.

The story begins with a modest, hard-working immigrant couple in their late thirties. When entrepreneurs, Harry and Esther Snyder, began their family-owned burger joint they never dreamed it would reach the cult-like following it enjoys today. In fact, for some people, these burgers are a religion and Perman tells why. In-N-Out is a unique entity in a culture devoted to profit and the book describes how the company managed to remain the anti-thesis to everything the fast-food industry has become. “Quality food at a reasonable price” and “fresh ingredients, shipped in daily” was Harry’s two-fold vision and he vowed never to change; the company attributes that policy to their phenomenal success. The burger joint is known for several key features but the trio of virtues the company lives by: “Quality, Cleanliness, and Service” is foremost. Along with their original three item menu, “keeping it simple” has always been an In-N-Out mantra and with only burgers, fries and shakes (okay, they serve soda too) the family has never varied. Esther’s refrain, “Do it yourself and do it right, believe in the Lord and everyone will be happy” is a testament to the strong Christian roots the company espouses and perhaps the well-kept secret to their vast achievements—that and their special sauce of course.

The book is sometimes repetitive and could have used some tighter editing, but it’s sure to please those who’ve always wanted to know more about this notoriously private, media-shy company. Recommended for business owners and all those who worship the hamburger mavens. All I can say is Yum...I’m hungry. Fire up that grill ‘cause my tummy’s rumbling. Sign me up for a double-double, Animal Style (those familiar with the secret menu will know what I’m talking about and those who don’t might want to read up) and I’ll see you all on opening day.

DAP

A Touch of Dead

A Touch of Dead
By Charlaine Harris
Ace Books, 2009. 192 pgs. Mystery

This is a collection of the 5 previously published short stories starring Harris’s telepathic waitress, Sookie Stackhouse. If you are craving a taste of your favorite southern vampires, this compilation gives you just that, and nothing more. Not that I didn’t enjoy them, they just left me wanting more and I have to wait until the next novel comes out before getting it.

I was a little confused by the arrangement of the stories and how they fit into the Sookie’s saga and I really wish I could have read them in order as they were published. My advice for anyone diving into this great vampire series is to incorporate these stories into your chronological reading list. I really wish I would have been able to do that myself.

CZ

Falling Off the Edge: Travels Through the Dark Heart of Globalization

Falling off the Edge: Travels Through the Dark Heart of Globalization.
By Alex Perry
Bloomsbury Press, 2008. 352 pgs. Nonfiction

Journalist Alex Perry develops Thomas Friedman’s metaphor that “the world is flat,” suggesting that if so, someone somewhere is falling off the edge. Perry takes the reader to several global economic hotspots such as Bombay, India and Shenzen, China; and on a tour of violent locations from Afghanistan to Africa. He demonstrates that in spite of some economic improvements brought by globalization, most developing nations still have far too many poor, far too little education, and far too much corruption. The result is millions of losers in the global economy who are very dissatisfied and unhappy.

Perry is a journalist who has traveled widely. He has a flair for storytelling but as a Publisher’s Weekly reviewer said, “Perry is sincere but his analysis is simplistic…” If you enjoyed “The World is Flat” you would probably like this book. Even seasoned armchair travelers will view new scenery and discover a new litany of world problems needing to be solved. SH

Fire

Fire
by Kristin Cashore
Dial Books. 2009. 461 pages. Young Adult

In the Dells there are normal animals and then there are monster creatures. These creatures look just the same as a horse or bird might, but they are painted in brilliant hues. They also have strange powers to mesmerize their prey. Fire, named for her hair color of flaming oranges and reds, is the last of the human monsters. She has lived a life of solitude because she fears the control she has over other people’s minds. Her father enjoyed using his powers and nearly destroyed the kingdom because of it. Now with the Dellian realm on the brink of war with its neighbors, Fire has been asked by the young King Nash and his brother Brigan, the commander of the king’s army, to travel to King City to use her powers to help the kingdom against its enemies. Fire knows she is despised by the royal family for the part her father played in the collapse of the kingdom and is afraid if she uses her powers, she might become like her father.

I quite enjoyed reading this book. The world and people Kristin Cashore creates are so fascinating that I had a hard time putting the book down. I think it is very misleading to call this book a companion to Graceling because there is only one tiny connection between the two. They are set in vastly different realms (although still in the same world) and the magical elements are completely different. I would also give a warning that this book is more appropriate for older teens. There is a lot of sleeping around going on in the book although it is only mentioned, not described.

AJ

Jane Brody's Guide to the Great Beyond

Jane Brody’s Guide to the Great Beyond: a Practical Primer to Help You and Your Loved Ones Prepare Medically, Legally, and Emotionally for the End of Life
By Jane Brody
Random House, 2009. 284 pgs. Nonfiction

You’d like to think you don’t need to read this book. But no matter what stage of life you are in right now, you could face issues which this book addresses. You may face decisions about the care of a loved one who is aging or dying. You may face the sudden death of someone close to you and have to plan a funeral. You may realize that you need to make decisions about the process and time of your own demise – do you have a living will? Do you understand advance directives? Do you have the skills to deal with a doctor during a health crisis?

Jane Brody’s book is sensible, quite thorough or, if not, helpful at suggesting other resources. You don't want to, but you should do it. Promise yourself that sometime in the next year you’ll read this book – and mean it. SH

The Path Between the Seas

The Path Between the Seas
David McCullough
Simon and Schuster,1977. 704 pgs.or 8 discs. non-fiction

I truly admire David McCullough, his research and time spent on each book is incredible. “The Path Between The Seas” is no exception. The events that led up to the 44 year building of the canal are overwhelming. Lives were destroyed by scandal, disease, greed and tragedies. Mankind benefited from medical advances in fighting yellow fever, malaria and other tropical diseases but not until entire families had been wiped out. Engineering feats are still marveled at today. Determination, grit and perseverance made heroes out of ordinary men.

I listened to the Simon & Schuster, 8 disc, 9 hour abridged version (there currently is no unabridged version) read by a very able Edward Herrmann. The first part of the book had too many names, financial and technical facts for my personal liking but the last third of the book picked up the pace and was fascinating. I looked through the book afterward and I didn’t notice much missing in the abridgement except it would have been interesting to have been able to see the pictures and maps that are included in the book. I would recommend this book to American history buffs or anyone lucky enough to be going on a Panama Canal cruise. mpb

Monster

Monster
By Walter Dean Myers
HarperCollins, 1999. 281 pgs. Young Adult

Sixteen-year-old Steve Harmon is on trial for a murder. Accused of being the lookout for a robbery that ended in murder, Steve is incarcerated and scared as his case goes before judge and jury. In order to deal with the horrible situation he finds himself in, Steve, an amateur film maker, transcribes his trial as a movie script.

Walter Dean Myers has created an interesting and enlightening book. The movie script format makes it a quick read and invites the reader to read between the lines to determine Steve's guilt or innocence. This book raises questions of moral behavior and guilt and innocence, as well as those about the American justice system. This first-ever Printz-award winner is one to read and discuss.

AE

Confessions of a She-Fan

Confessions of a She-Fan: The Course of True Love with the New York Yankees
By Jane Heller
Rodale, 2009. 262 pgs. Nonfiction.

When the New York Yankees had a rocky start to their 2007 season, lifetime Yankees fan Jane Heller wrote a piece announcing her decision to divorce the Yankees. When that article was published in the New York Times, she got intense reactions from baseball fans and decided to examine her devotion to her team by following the Yankees around the country as they finished out their season. From the end of the All-Star break through the play-offs, Jane sets out to write a book about her journey, but she also finds out what it means to be a baseball fan, for better or for worse.

This is funny memoir from a Yankee-crazed woman. Readers without a knowledge of baseball or the Yankees in particular might get lost in the names (and nicknames) of all the players, but even without a full knowledge of the 2007 Yankees roster, readers can appreciate an amusing, emotional fan, who starts out intending to write a book and ends up finding deeper insights into what it means to love a team. Heller combines her skill as a novelist with her passion for baseball to create a funny and amusing story about true love.

(GO YANKEES!)

AE

Courting Trouble

Courting Trouble
By Deanne Gist
Bethany House Publishers, 2007. 330 pages. Romance

Esther Spreckelmeyer hates her last name and the annual 4th of July town picnic where she feels like everyone in the world goes by two by two, except her. At age thirty in 1894 Corsicana, Texas, Esther is considered long past the marriageable age. Exasperated with her situation, Esther makes a list of all the eligible bachelors in town and decides to court them herself. Many of the people in town think Esther is a little too much. Esther has a penchant for wearing flamboyant hats and riding her modern bicycle through the main streets of town. Although Esther thinks all men are blind to her charms, three different men are indeed interested: Hamilton Crook, a shop owner, who runs from her bold advances, Adam Currington, a handsome blond and blue-eyed drifter, and Ewing Wortham, former childhood best friend. Esther is naive about men, having been sheltered from them most of her life by her influential judge father. As a consequence, her dealings with them range from the comedic to the tragic.

This novel is different from Deanne Gist’s other works. It is more heavy-handed in its Christian themes. The novel is less a straightforward romance and more of an exploration of Esther’s life journey. Also, there is no dramatic, stand-out male hero. I felt like although Esther’s personality certainly is exuberant, she is slightly less complex than some of Gist’s other protagonists. To be fair, this is the first of a two part series. The second book is titled, “Deep in the Heart of Trouble”, where I’m sure Esther will learn from the mistakes she made in the first novel.

ALC

Revenge of the Witch

Revenge of the Witch
By Joseph Delaney
Greenwillow Books, 2005. 344 pgs. Young Adult

Tom is a seventh son of a seventh son, giving him the special gift of being able to become the Spooks Apprentice. His job is to learn how to protect the county against boggarts, ghosts, witches, and other things that go bump in the night. First he just has to overcome his own fears before he can protect others.

This is a great series for those who enjoy The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman and the Monster Blood Tattoo series by D.M. Cornish.

KK

Fatally Flaky

Fatally Flaky
By Diane Mott Davidson
William Morrow, 2009. 323 pgs. Mystery

Goldy Shultz is losing her mind catering Bridezilla Billie’s wedding. Two days before the wedding, Billie calls to say that there will be 100 more guests at the reception so they will need to change the venue to Gold Gulch Spa. While setting up for the wedding, Goldy suspects that things may not be on the up and up at Gold Gulch Spa. Confirming her thoughts, her godfather is attacked during Billie’s wedding. It’s up to Goldy and her catering friends to solve this mystery.

This is a fast, a bit predictable, clean mystery to pass the time.

KK

The Last Olympian

The Last Olympian
By Rick Riordan
Disney/Hyperion Books, 2009. 381 pgs. Young Adult

Percy is settling in for a quite weekend when he is summoned back to Camp Half Blood to prepare for the final battle against Kronos. Kronos, who has taken on the body of a fellow demigod Luke, is determined to destroy Olympus (which by the way you access through the Empire State Building). So while the Gods are busy defending their own lands, it is up to Percy and his fellow demigods to defend New York City.

The action never stops and all the prophecies are answered in this final installment of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I will miss reading this series and learning about Greek Mythology.

KK

Max: a Maximum Ride Novel

Max: a Maximum Ride Novel
By James Patterson
Little, Brown, and Co., 2009. 309 pgs. Young Adult

Max and her flock (genetic engineered kids with wings) continue their work with the “Stop the Madness” organization that promotes environmental friendly living. While en route to their next event, Max’s mom, who headed up the organization, is kidnapped. It is up to Max to save the day and according to the voice in her head, the world.

Patterson has toned down the environmentalism and picked up the action from his last book. There is hope that the next book will return to how the series began with great action and snarky attitude without an agenda, but to entertain.

KK

Inkdeath

Inkdeath
By Cornelia Funke
Scholastic, 2008, 683 pgs. Young Adult

This final book in the trilogy finds Mo, Meggie, and Resa living in world of Inkheart. Mo has taken on the name The Bluejay and joined the Black Prince and his robbers fighting against the evil in the kingdom. But the evil will not end unless the Aderhead dies. And for him to die, Mo must find a way to write just three words in the Aderheads white book of immortality that will kill him.

I would recommend rereading the first two books in the series before starting Inkdeath. I had forgotten some of the characters (and there are a lot) and so it can be confusing at times remembering how they all fit into the story.

KK

The Awakening

The Awakening
By Kelley Armstrong
HarperCollinsPublishers, 2009. 360 pgs. Young adult fiction.

In the vivid sequel in the Darkest Powers series, Chloe, along with fellow supernaturals Simon, Derek, and Rae manage to escape from Lyle House to find Simon and Derek's father. Chloe and Rae, however, are captured by what they discover to be the Edison Group--people who ran Lyle House as a pretense to find supernatural children. Chloe and Tori both escape from the Group's clutches, once again, and make an uneasy alliance as they join Simon and Derek. As the Edison Group tries to track them down, the escapists are forced to live on the streets, constantly running. The relationships between the teens become even more complicated as their various feelings for each other ebb and flow. Throughout this experience, Chloe's powers are further manifested in dangerous and horrifying ways, upping the urgency for her to master them.

An excellent, fast-paced sequel to The Summoning, this book was just as great as the first. Highly suspenseful, it will keep you flipping pages and dying to read the next book, The Reckoning, to be published in April of 2010.

CW

The Summoning

The Summoning
By Kelley Armstrong
HarperCollinsPublishers, 2008. 390 pgs. Young adult fiction.

When teenaged Chloe starts seeing ghosts, she is sent to Lyle House, a group home for mentally disturbed youth. Diagnosed as schizophrenic, she does her best to accept her condition and cooperate with the doctors to be "cured." Making both friends and enemies there, she discovers there is something strange about the home and its inhabitants. As Chloe investigates the secrets of Lyle House, her world becomes increasingly complicated and her return to normal society seems less and less of a reality.

This book was fascinating. I was completely absorbed in it from the first page and I sped through the whole 390 pages in a day. Luckily, I had the sequel already and zipped through that right after as well. Robust characters, twisty plot, and a plucky main character all contribute to a wonderful read. This series would certainly appeal to fans of Twilight looking for paranormal literature. An excellent beginning to what seems to be a promising series.

CW

Birth Day

Birth Day: A Pediatrician Explore the Science, the History and the Wonder of Childbirth
By Mark Sloan
Ballantine Books, 2009. 370 pages. Nonfiction

Although the author, Mark Sloan, practices pediatrics, not obstetrics, he writes about childbirth with wonderful insight and compassion. Dr. Sloan has helped deliver more than 3,000 babies. In addition, he is an assistant professor at the University of California, San Francisco. It is easy to believe because the book is written in the informative, easy going manner of a favorite college professor. The book is divided into several sections that cover: being born, pain and politics, significant others, and looking at babies. The author approaches the possibly offensive path of writing about childbirth from a man’s perspective with an easy, self-defacing humor. He often cites experiences with patients or his wife Elizabeth. Often authors fall into the trap of being either too clinical or maudlin when describing the intricacies of birth, but Sloan does an excellent job of capturing its wonders. He writes from both a scientific point of view and a personal one. I especially enjoyed the section on the first precarious five minutes of life - when baby transforms from fetus to an air breathing human.

Although I've delivered three children I still learned from this book. This is a wonderful resource for both men and women to read. It might be especially applicable before an impending birth. I agree with the authors advice on preparing for labor. You have to be flexible and prepared for different options and put people you love near you to help out.

ALC

The Awakening

The Awakening
By Marley Gibson
Graphia, 2009. 338 pgs. Young adult fiction.

After a move to the quaint town of Radisson, Georgia, odd things begin happening to Kendall. First of all, her room is haunted--she keeps hearing a ghostly voice that seems to be communicating with her. After a run-in with the town psychic, Kendall gathers the tools she needs, including a teen ghost hunting team, to understand and properly use her gift for good--most importantly, to protect her father from a vengeful spirit.

The first book in the Ghost Huntress series, this book was an interesting, entertaining read. There were moments when the 16 year old narrator's voice switched a bit too abruptly from typical colloquial teen to lofty English graduate, which I found a bit forced, but otherwise I enjoyed the story. I especially liked the scientific aspect of "ghost hunting" in this book; it was a different twist from other ghost stories I've read and gave it a more grounded, realistic feel. Although this book has scary moments, overall it wasn't a frightening book.

CW

Homeless Bird

Homeless Bird
By Gloria Whelan
Harper Collins, 2000. 186 pgs. Young Adult

Koly is 13 years old and lives in India. As is custom, she is married off for her dowry so that her husbands’ family may have the money. They want the money to journey to the holy waters of the Ganges to heal their dying son who is her husband. Soon after their trip, her husband dies leaving Koly a young widow and now considered unclean. She is abandoned in Vrindavan to live in the streets and fend for herself.

This interesting novel gives a quick glance into the customs of India and makes me appreciate the freedoms I am allowed to have in my society.

KK

The Naming

The Naming
By Alison Croggon
Candlewick Press, 2005. 492 pgs. Young Adult

Sixteen-year-old orphan Maerad leads a miserable life as a slave, until a mysterious man named Cadvan appears in her prison and offers to take her with him to freedom. As they escape together, it becomes clear that Cadvan is in possession of special abilities, and to their surprise, they discover that Maerad has the same abilities - to an intense degree. As Maerad begins to learn about the world around her - the world she never knew as a slave - her true identity begins to unfold and she realizes that her place in the world is more vital than she ever thought.

This is a classic young adult fantasy that I enjoyed from start to finish. The main character is likable and easy to identify with, and although some elements seem a bit cliche, it was easy to get swept away in the story. In the tradition of Tolkien, a whole history of an ancient language and culture undergirds the story, which unfolds to Maerad slowly as we follow her on her journey. I think this is one for the die-hard fantasy fans and young adult fiction fans alike.

BHG

Need

Need
By Carrie Jones
Bloomsbury, 2009. 306 pages. Young Adult

Zara White is obsessed with phobias ever since her beloved step-father died in front of her. She feels knowledge of her fears will help her cope with them. To help Zara deal with her grief Zara's mother sends her to live with her grandmother in Maine. Zara hates cold, snowy Maine until she meets Issie, her boyfriend Devyn, and their gorgeous friend Nick. Nick immediately befriends Zara although she wonders at his overly protective attitude. After her arrival in Maine Zara suspects a man is stalking her, a man who leaves gold dust in his wake. She believes he is a pixie and for some reason her friends believe her. In addition, several young men from the community have gone missing. Zara tries to unravel the mysterious occurrences and at the same time learns a startling secret about her own past.

The tone of Need is set immediately by both the title and Zara’s internal musings about life’s unfairness. The stark and dangerous landscape of icy Maine provides a classic backdrop for the suspenseful plot. The serious flirtation between Zara and Nick adds to the story as Nick is superlative high school boyfriend material. Fans of Twilight will like this quick read. The ending certainly leaves room for a sequel.

ALC

The Measure of a Lady

The Measure of a Lady
By Deanne Gist
Walker Large Print. 2007. 503 pages. Historical Fiction.

Rachel van Buren is literally stuck in 1849 Gold Rush San Francisco when her father unexpectedly dies on the passage there. Her father was hoping to make his fortune and described the streets as paved with gold. The streets, however, are paved with mud. There are no ships leaving the harbor as all the men have jumped ship in an effort to find their fortunes. There are no places for Rachel and her younger teenage sister Lissie, and brother Michael to stay. Johnnie Park, a disillusioned former missionary, who runs the City Hotel saloon and gambling hall, takes pity on the three orphans and allows them to stay with him. Rachel soon discovers that the wild west of San Francisco has a much different moral climate from her hometown. There are no “proper” ladies in the town of San Francisco. All the “sunbonnets”, as they are called, are in the mining camps with their husbands. As Rachel and Johnnie fall in love, almost against their wills, Rachel must reexamine her ideas about morality and right and wrong.

This novel received the Christy Award for excellence in Christian Fiction. In addition to being a step above most Christian Fiction, there are also many interesting historical tidbits about San Francisco. I found the descriptions of the complexities of relationships to be above average, particularly as Rachel battles wills with her beautiful and rebellious younger sister Lissa. The romance is genuine and not forced.

ALC

Fablehaven

Fablehaven
By Brandon Mull
Shadow Mountain, 2007. 359 pgs. Young Adult

For centuries mystical creatures of all description were gathered into a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite.

Kendra and her brother, Seth, have no idea that their grandfather is the current caretaker of Fablehaven. Inside the gated woods, ancient laws keep relative order among greedy trolls, mischievous satyrs, plotting witches, spiteful imps, and jealous fairies. However, when the rules get broken — Seth is a bit too curious and reckless for his own good — powerful forces of evil are unleashed, and Kendra and her brother face the greatest challenge of their lives.

I enjoyed Fablehaven and the magical feel it has. I loved seeing how Seth and Kendra’s characters developed throughout this book. In addition to this being a great book, Brandon Mull is visiting the library on October 22, 2009 so I’m looking forward to meeting the author of this series!

AMM

Daniel X: Watch the Skies

Daniel X: Watch the Skies
By James Patterson
Little, Brown, and Co., 2009. 251 pgs. Young Adult

In this second installment of the Daniel X series, Daniel is working his way up the aliens most wanted list. This time Daniel’s target is alien number 5 who has invaded the sleepy town of Holliswood. The aliens mission is to direct the best season of “Endertainment” that is broadcasted intergalactically. His show consists of controlling the humans through their electronics making them dance till the show stopper finale- death. It’s up to Daniel and his friends to use their extraordinary powers to save the world.

This is an action packed adventure that never lets up and is filled with sarcastic humor that I love. The short chapters make it great for reluctant readers.

KK