At the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s bAt the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s book as their group’s book discussion selection. I thought it was a fascinating coincidence. Especially, when they started to get into their own discussion about birds. As a side note, I finished, but decided not to review “The Summer Guests.” Sometimes books are just for reading.
Let me first start by sharing my admiration for this book cover. It is the only painted color illustration offered of a bird in the whole book. Which is a shame. But it is absolutely stunning. The spectacular blue and gray feathers of this California Scrub Jay comes through vibrantly. Look at the claws as it clutches onto the stem of the plant/tree. And, the serious look in the eye with the white streak above it, is just gorgeous. Unfortunately for me, I really had hoped there would be more color illustrations of birds throughout the book. Still, the black and white bird illustrations that were offered at the beginning of each chapter are a nice treat. But this book cover illustration by Eunike Nugroho is something to be truly acknowledged, and that is why I am mentioning it.
Now let’s talk about the title of the book. I love the way the author starts this book. She is very clear that birds have gotten the short end of the stick, so to speak, when it comes to perception about their intelligence.
To be honest, any of us who are animal lovers, probably believe our pets are intelligent and have an innate ability to communicate with us. I already get this from my corgi dog Oliver with the way he can either shame face me into submission, or soften me because he is telling me everything, I need to know about what he needs from me in any given moment. So, those of us who have pets, obviously already believe in their abilities to creatively interface with us.
So, it is not surprising to any of us who have an affinity for animals, that we might wonder about ‘birds’ intellectual abilities to communicate, and especially their ability to communicate with humans. The more that science can bridge this gap, the more aware we can be in understanding them, their needs, and meeting and appreciating those needs. Or, at least appreciating what they bring to humans and nature, overall.
This is the beauty of this book. Helping readers reimagine our understanding of “bird brains.” To see and appreciate them differently. And, readers can certainly appreciate the author’s sense of wonder about birds.
Last minutes notes for consideration…
Throughout the book, Ackerman provides many explanations in layman’s terms of complex studies done on birds. Those birds with language skills are captivating. The studies are easily translatable, making them understandable for readers. Also, this book can be read at a slow pace, if desired. I chose to read this book in-between my novels, thus the slow pace worked well for me. I also appreciated that the book could be utilized as a teaching tool…especially for those who enjoy birdwatching, or are fascinated with birds in general....more
There were moments I thought I would like this book. I had read about the use of magical realism, and that usually is a go-to-escape read for me. BecaThere were moments I thought I would like this book. I had read about the use of magical realism, and that usually is a go-to-escape read for me. Because who wouldn’t be intrigued about the possibility that a perfume made especially for them could change their life, and manifest everything they ever thought they needed or wanted?
“…This is no ordinary perfume. …It is extraordinary. It will change your life. It is untitled. It is your story to write.”
And, I loved that Iris, our main protagonist, the receiver of said perfume, also had a cute dog, named Hugo that everyone seemed to adore and gravitate to – of course! But Iris, just seemed to find herself in so many situations and circumstances that were questionable at best, that even magical realism couldn’t seem to save the storyline from being a bit exasperating (for me).
And, even as I went back to the point of how the perfume could make a difference, I really wondered if she would have eventually found her confidence on her own, by just believing in herself in the first place.
“I want you to feel your power and to show the world what you’re capable of. But above all, I want you to get what you want.”
At what price, Iris? At what price, readers?
Because, the number of subplots with difficult social issues – sexual harassment, drug use, sexual abuse, jealousy amongst women, seemed a bit over-the-top, as well. Still, having said all this, I could be an outlier.
Also, on the possible good side, with these kinds of topics, it certainly opens the door for great discussions in book groups. And, sometimes, even books that don’t get the greatest star ratings, are still extraordinary discussion books.
“This book is dedicated to a simple idea: to have the future we want, we need to build and invent more of what we need.”
I’m not sure this book has wha“This book is dedicated to a simple idea: to have the future we want, we need to build and invent more of what we need.”
I’m not sure this book has what it will take to achieve that simple idea, but I appreciate both authors intentions.
I really admire Ezra Klein. Especially as a commentator and journalist. I first appreciated his book, “Why We’re Polarized.” If interested, I have included a link to my review below.
So, when I heard he had a new book out, I immediately ordered a copy from my local library in April of this year. It just came through this month (August 2025).
I’m not sure what I expected, but this wasn’t an easy read, especially as I attempted to read this while witnessing before me, my country being toppled down by the current Trump administration and the GOP. Yes, I realize this is my opinion. And, I sadly own it. ...more
“If imagination is the rocket, then books are the rocket fuel. They supercharge the mind and help it see beyond what it can conceive on its own.”
Ther“If imagination is the rocket, then books are the rocket fuel. They supercharge the mind and help it see beyond what it can conceive on its own.”
There is an interesting little backstory between this book, my local library and me. I originally ordered this book for check-out on October 4, 2024. Yes, you heard me right. Last year. And then, my library cancelled the order on December 4, 2024 and said the book was no longer available. What? I guess that meant they decided not to include it in the library system. Or, did they?
Recently, I noticed it on Goodreads, which reminded me of how much I had wanted to read the book. So, I decided to do an online search of it at my library. And, sure enough it was in the system. What? So, I ordered it again on August 8, 2025. I was happy to receive it on August 12, 2025. I will never understand the mystery of what occurred last year, and why they did not notify me that it was available again for order. Oh well. I am just pleased to have the opportunity to finally read it.
To be honest, I did not know what this reading experience would be. I just wanted to read it, because I enjoyed Noah’s audio book, “Born a Crime.” So, when I was treated to this splendidly illustrated fable of a young boy and his teddy bear, I knew I was in for a different version of Noah’s imagination.
For anyone who has read, “Born a Crime” they will know he had a complicated relationship with his mother. For those who haven’t, please consider listening to the audio version. He is the narrator, and he is amazing in the telling of his own story.
With this one, he lets readers know immediately in the introduction that this story is “inspired by a conflict” with his mother. And, thus we are off and running to learn why through this lovely illustrated adventure that is not necessarily a children’s book for kids but “a book for kids to share with parents and for parents to share with kids.”
What happens when the boy chooses to defy his mother’s rules on this particular Saturday? And, instead heads out on his own with his teddy bear, Walter? Will there be lessons to learn on the way? What could possibly happen when he chooses to play and adventure amongst the “uncut grass?”
This is a story of imagination and exploration – of rules and freedom and the power of connection for a young boy. It is thoughtful and engaging and easy-to-read for readers of all ages. With a particularly different and discussable ending.
And, it is especially encouraging in the way it can bring families together to discuss the importance of why parents/adults might set rules, and why children might want certain freedoms. Which is why this would make a great discussion book for families and teachers/kids in school.
“What’s the best thing about being a storyteller? That’s easy. You get to cheat…to live many lives, not just the one you’re born to.”
Sometimes reading “What’s the best thing about being a storyteller? That’s easy. You get to cheat…to live many lives, not just the one you’re born to.”
Sometimes reading certain books are like having conversations with best friends. Where we can talk so openly with each other. Like sharing about our greatest fears, or the sensitivities we have about our families.
This book of essays is called ‘Life and Art.’ And, that in a sense is the beauty of what this book is all about – Russo giving his readers an inside view into his writing process. How many authors do this for us? Giving us the feeling that we are his best friends. Important people to him, because we are his readers. The ones he intends on pleasing. Telling us about…
Life.
And, the art of the story.
How they both relate. How they both come to be. For him. And, in so doing, how it relates to us. The reader. Him essentially breaking down his writing process. For us. And, maybe for himself, too.
I loved being in the midst of “Life and Art” where he is telling it like it is in his honest and in-your-face kind-of-way. And, I love the way he shares with his open heart, too. So much so, that I have to believe his essays – stories, were cathartic for him.
I have been reading this book, in-between novels. And, as I finished the last page, I couldn’t help but be amazed by a sea of sticky notes staring back at me. Where was I going to place all the ‘quotes’ of what he said that stood out to me?
Well, as it so happens, I decided to add a few to the famous author’s Goodreads quotes pages. Please check out some of those below. Maybe some will have meaning for you, too? If so, click on the ones you like, and they will be added to your profile page, too.
So much of what he shared resonated with me. His discussion of his feelings, thoughts, observations, experiences, life in general, observations of others, America – yesterday – today – a probable future? …wow. I was so there with him.
So much about what Russo writes in his fiction I have truly appreciated. But certainly, this discussion in his essays were so – real and raw.
Of course, be-ing an open-minded reader helps. And, even if he isn’t writing from a political point-of-view, his writer’s perspective helps to showcase his observations with an open heart and directness. Which really is the first part of his essays – the life of the story.
I need to pause for a moment.
Interestingly enough, as I am reading this book on essays, Oprah just shared that his book, “Bridge of Sighs” was announced as her August 2025 book pick. Not that he needed her attention for anyone to read his book or books, but I am glad she chose him. “Bridge of Sighs” https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... was originally published in 2007. It centered on small-town life in upstate New York. And, it certainly deserves a re-release. One I haven’t yet reviewed, but remember was a hit with our library book discussion group when we discussed it years ago.
Back to this book.
To be honest, I could feel everything he was discussing in his ‘life’ section as if it had personally happened to me, too. I think as readers connect with the subjects in his essays (particularly his discussions about the pandemic), I have a feeling it will hit some personal notes for some, too.
And then, there are the subjects of:
Anxiety. Family life experiences. The impacts of family life decisions on him as a person and his role as an author and playwright. And, how it affected him, and the creation of his characters. The perspective he brought to his stories/characters because of these observations/experiences.
And, then there is the second half of the book… the art of the story. What he refers to as “the lives of others.”
The character development.
“…The how of writing a story that requires some degree of transcendence: how do you go about bridging the gap between what you know and what you don’t and sometimes can’t?”
In other words, he may create a character based on someone he met, but now he embellishes that character so that it fits his narrative. And thus, a story is born.
The art. Of the story.
There is so much to appreciate about what Russo shares within these pages. It is like a masterclass in fiction writing for anyone who loves to write, or even read.
And, as we consider his words, we can be reminded about how much we are all touched by words and conversations. And, our humanity in feeling things. Deeply.
When we read books, we connect to characters for so many different reasons. Why not connect to an author, and appreciate their innerworkings, too.
Russo opened his personal door to readers through his essays by inviting us in. I recommend this book as a wonderful invitation into the mind of an author.
A couple of last notes.
Especially touching was his discussion about Paul Newman. Completely heart-felt. For all the right reasons. And, lastly his words about George Floyd. There is so much more for us to grow and learn as humans caring about others.
If you are unfamiliar with Richard Russo the author, or haven’t read him yet, consider picking up one of his books. Certainly, now that Oprah is recognizing him this month, might be a good time to start! My favorite will always be, “Straight Man.” Certainly, reading his book of essays is always recommended, too. Like this one....more
E. Jean Carroll. She told the truth. Twice. She was believed. Twice. She won a lot of money. Twice. And the justice awarded to her continues to rise iE. Jean Carroll. She told the truth. Twice. She was believed. Twice. She won a lot of money. Twice. And the justice awarded to her continues to rise in value. ($100 million and counting.)
And, her intentions for that money are perfect! All the things he hates.
And, she has the best sense of humor. Throughout this memoir, trial tell-all.
I listened to the book along with reading the hardcover copy. As much as I hated what this man, the future and current President of the United States put her through, I absolutely loved her for her courageousness and brave sense of self. Even if she didn’t always see herself that way.
This is mostly her story about the sexual assault and defamation trials. It also is her story of what may not have been shared at trial. And, for those of us who detest men who think they can sexually assault women and get away with it, the sad part is that even though he was held accountable through this assault against her – there are still many in this country that voted for this rapist to be President. There is something very sad about their choosing to do so.
Still, E. Jean Carroll is to be celebrated for her pluckiness and voice. And, because of her case, New York re-visited and expanded the “rape is rape” bill.
For those interested in reading her side of the story, this is a compelling, enjoyable, and, thoughtful look at a woman not afraid of bullies, or taking a stark look at herself. A new kind of she-ro.
“During the darkest times, not only is it possible to feel joy, it is your duty to embrace it fully, to share it far and wide, and to never lose hope “During the darkest times, not only is it possible to feel joy, it is your duty to embrace it fully, to share it far and wide, and to never lose hope that joy, along with compassion and love, will win in the end.”
How can a quote like this not give us hope in today’s world?
This book follows a typical epistolary style storytelling in which two strangers “meet” through letters in the early 1990’s. It follows a very similar format as “84, Charing Cross Road” by Helene Hanff and “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer. This author also wrote “Love & Saffron” in which she told her story of friendship through correspondence. If interested, see links below for reviews of the books just mentioned.
From the moment readers enter the pages, it is as if we are a voyeur to the intimate conversations of two playful twenty-somethings (Kate & Frida). We witness them enjoying life, books, food, people and figuring out what they want to be in their own personal self-discovery. And, as they chatter away in their rambling discussions, they encourage each other to be more – live loud, write their novels, travel, live-outside-the-box, and enjoy what life has to offer.
Kate works at The Puget Sound Book Company bookstore in Seattle, Washington. Frida, a transplant from Los Angeles is currently living in Paris, France seeking books to read while finding herself. It was suggested Frida find a book through The Puget Sound Book Company, and that is how Kate happened to find her first letter. And thus, this is how the correspondence between the two began.
Sometimes book recommendations are offered, which open doors for more books to be considered by many other readers/reviewers, like ourselves. As an example, did you ever hear of “Moon Tiger” by Penelope Lively? Or the American journalist, Martha Gellhorn, who wrote, “The Face of War?” Other books that I have also considered because of their discussions include:
“The Big Rock Candy Mountain” by Wallace Stegner “The Debut” by Anita Brookner “A Slipping Down Life” by Anne Tyler “Happy All the Time” by Laurie Colwin
(Side note: since they all are older books, none of them are available at my local library. Darn. ...more
In this first in the series, what happens when a riverboat cruise ends up stranded because it has crashed into the rocks? This becomes the challenge oIn this first in the series, what happens when a riverboat cruise ends up stranded because it has crashed into the rocks? This becomes the challenge of new county Sherriff Hank Worth in fictional Branson County, Southern Missouri. How to get all the passengers and crew off the boat to safety.
But what happens when a young girl is also found dead on board? And, she is discovered in the Captain’s locked private dining room? Does this become a locked room mystery?
And, even if everyone does make it to shore safely, how does anybody explain the crash and the murder? Or if, these crimes could be connected?
With many questions, and possible witnesses and suspects to consider, Sherriff Worth has a huge task ahead of him. Especially when people in high places want a say in how this investigation should be conducted.
What will the Sherriff discover during his investigation?
As a resourceful, family man, not-into-politics kind of Sherriff, readers will find themselves in the midst of an easy-to-read, page-turning mystery, with a likable lead character. This may be the beginning of a compelling series.
There is a new book out about this President. But this one was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, so I thought I would take my time reading itThere is a new book out about this President. But this one was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, so I thought I would take my time reading it.
Many may recognize the author from his role as host of “Hardball” on MSNBC. He also professes to be an admirer of John “Jack” F. Kennedy, our 35th President of the United States. And thus, this seemed the perfect way for Matthews to display his love and appreciation of Jack Kennedy’s story. And, it just isn’t his admiration that leads him to write this book. It is also the many conversations he experienced with others that allowed him to find a way to provide more of an insider’s view and perspective of this President.
Matthews roots this story in family. And, how family foreshadowed Kennedy’s life. If anyone has read anything about his dominant father, it would be no surprise that Kennedy’s own life would take the path it did. Matthews highlights this relationship well.
There is also a humanness to the telling of this version of Kennedy. His flaws show. His vulnerability. His bravery. And, his visionary approach to leadership.
In delving into his life, Matthews gave us the ‘real’ person, as well as the leader. For anyone interested in stepping back in history, Matthews provides us with a Kennedy in which we can be reminded of why a lot of the ways in which he approached his role in politics and civic service could be considered inspirational. And, why we still may mourn the loss of him, too soon, for our country. ...more
Each has a backstory. It begins and ends at the train depot. Heart-felt. Heart-wrenching. Interwoven. Thoughtful.Lincoln. Vera. Violet. Evelyn. Anna.
Each has a backstory. It begins and ends at the train depot. Heart-felt. Heart-wrenching. Interwoven. Thoughtful. Unique.
Modern day 1970. As readers are transported back and forth in time, we are reminded that…
“If the train arrives at 5:39 then it is too late.”
Most importantly, as pages turn, we can’t help but want to dole out hugs and love to characters that may feel broken, deserve attention and compassion in a world that doesn’t always understand those that are different. But there is something about them that makes us want to know them and care. And, hope for a better world.
The author shares a masterfully told character-driven story, that was thought-provoking and heart-warming. The author’s historical investigative background brings a thoughtful warmth and dimension that brings the characters to life while adding heart and soul to the story. Readers can’t help but root for the characters. May we be so fortunate to have more neurodivergent people that guide us to see the world from their point of view.
One last thing…the book cover. It has special meaning. As you read, you will understand. Pay attention.
Publication Date: August 26, 2025
I want to thank the author and Vine Leaves Press for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
The book begins in present day 2023 and continues backwards until its conclusion in 1984. Our main protagonists are Thom and Wendy. And, as readers arThe book begins in present day 2023 and continues backwards until its conclusion in 1984. Our main protagonists are Thom and Wendy. And, as readers are first introduced to them in 2023, we learn quickly that this is a couple who is not particularly happy with their lives or each other.
So, what happened to them?
What will one of these characters do to find a way forward beyond 2023? A simple divorce? Or, perhaps murder?
Swanson takes readers on a different who-dunnit path, in which the who-dunnit is already known. We, as readers, just don’t fully know the why.
And, what will readers feel as they descend into the past to learn more about this couple?
As more is revealed, the less connected one might feel to this couple. But can it be possible that the best revenge for one of them, is the one they don’t realize, until the readers reach the end of this story?
And, it really is that twist of an ending that lends some credence and satisfaction to a book that takes readers out of its comfort zone, i.e., reading a book in reverse year date order. The problem is that it is the story along the way that may feel a bit awkward and tedious to read.
Still, if readers are willing to be patient, with some very unlikable characters, for that unexpected ending, it might at least be worth reading.
I was at my weekly local library visit, and in the mood for finding first in the series mysteries. This one stood out, so I thought I would give it a I was at my weekly local library visit, and in the mood for finding first in the series mysteries. This one stood out, so I thought I would give it a try.
This isn’t a typical mystery that I would find myself in, as it is historical fiction, set after WWI. (I am mostly attracted to contemporary mysteries. Although, being a fan of Agatha Christie opens me up to this time period!)
Interestingly enough, Charles Todd, the ‘author’ is actually a pen name for the American mother-son writing team of Carolyn Todd and David Watjen. Carolyn used the pen name Caroline Todd, but was born Carolyn Watjen. She passed away in August, 2021. This book was originally published in 1996 and is, as mentioned, the first in the series, I was looking to read.
Readers meet deeply flawed, battle-scarred Inspector Ian Rutledge who is still recovering from his war-time traumatic experiences. This has left him with a ‘ghost’ in the name of Hamish who speaks to him throughout.
The case involves the brutal shooting of a Captain Harris, and concerns that it may involve other persons of high rank. Thus, Scotland Yard is quite happy to have a ‘scapegoat’ investigate, should any embarrassment come from having to ‘arrest’ persons of interest in ‘high positions.’
But Inspector Rutledge, their ‘scapegoat’ is only concerned at finding the truth.
The story is well-plotted with good character development. The author does an incredible job of infusing the landscape and post-war England into the storyline.
As readers are led toward the end reveal, it may feel a bit confusing with the many psychological twists that lead to the final conclusion. Still, it was an interesting premise that highlighted the devastation that war places on its veterans, which made the story fairly compelling....more
This is Ruth Ann’s story about her family with her parents and her sister. The focus is the year 1967 when she was 11 and her sister Annie was 8. And,This is Ruth Ann’s story about her family with her parents and her sister. The focus is the year 1967 when she was 11 and her sister Annie was 8. And, as readers, we will wonder if evil could possibly have walked through the door of the home that year to try and taint the innocence.
So, what does evil look like? And, how could it possibly be dressed in the likes of family, too?
Especially when children are supposed to trust their grandfather, right?
As readers, we wonder, how Ruth Ann will be able to protect her younger sister, Annie from their cruel and prejudice grandpa and his blue truck.
What? How can we as readers possibly look at the blue truck as anything else other than transportation? Well, when it is in the hands of evil…
Enter Dr. Molly, a compassionate veterinarian, whose love and guidance provides a lot of what the girls come to want at a time of need.
They are also surrounded by the love and companionship of their dog, named Buddy, and cat, named Beets, and some other kittens, and puppies who happen to be under the care of Dr. Molly.
But when the hatred, vile, prejudice and unkindness of Ruth Ann and Annie’s grandpa threatens their stability, and loving home, will they all be able to eventually find their voice, redefine family and feel a true sense of community?
The author shares a compelling, character-centered story about a complicated family, that also focuses on the struggles, sexism, and difficulties within, including LGBTQ+ issues for the times.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
For those who may or may not be aware, this author has some interesting resume credentials. She started as a Hollywood producer. She has worked on theFor those who may or may not be aware, this author has some interesting resume credentials. She started as a Hollywood producer. She has worked on the Academy Award-nominated ‘Trumbo,’ starring Bryan Cranston and Helen Mirren, and Apple TV + ‘Dads’ also produced by Ron Howard.
This is actually her debut novel that starts off leading readers to believe something is amiss. What did our main character, Mimi do that would force her to attend a neighbor’s upcoming event? And, what did Mimi do in her past that would cause her to be blackmailed by the event’s host?
Now, Mimi isn’t your ordinary protagonist. She is a grandmother leading a rather comfortable, quiet secluded lifestyle quite happy with her plants. So, what is this past that she doesn’t want revealed?
Feeling a bit rattled, Mimi calls her estranged granddaughter Addie to attend this event with her. Addie agrees, believing this invitation by her grandmother is meant to reconcile their distant relationship.
But soon chaos ensues when the host is found dead. Oh no!
Before long, Mimi and Addie find themselves fully vested sleuths at the mansion amidst a snow storm, with more dead bodies and other possible blackmail victims. What is going on here? What secrets are at play here? And, who is the killer?
With an intriguing cast of characters, and some puzzle-like twists, this fun pair should keep readers engaged. And, with Mimi’s Gibson Martini recipe at the end of the book, do you think you might need a drink, to try and figure this one out? Cheers....more
If you want to know the truth about me, there is this one little fact. I am usually a fan girl of Josie Silver. Every time I find out she has written If you want to know the truth about me, there is this one little fact. I am usually a fan girl of Josie Silver. Every time I find out she has written a book, I want to read it. I love to get lost between the pages of one of her stories. I typically find myself engaged with her lovable, and deserving characters who are usually in the midst of second chances or something life-changing in their lives.
Silver has a way of telling her story that allows readers to step right in and want what is best for her characters, too.
With this book, Silver introduces readers immediately to her protagonist Kate. Readers learn that about 20 years ago, Kate gave up a promising acting career for love. Only to be burned by her husband and his pre-nup, about 20 years later. Can Kate hope that maybe her former agent might take her back?
As it so happens, her former agent died. But, his son, Charlie who has taken over his father’s business (reluctantly) may have a job for her. A different kind of job.
Never could Kate imagine that this “acting” job would be serving as the “ghost author” of a romance novel that the established author does not want to be associated with because it does not “fit their brand.” Could this be the beginning to something that Kate actually wants for herself?
But most importantly, can Kate pull off this acting fete? Can Charlie step comfortably into his father’s shoes as an agent? Are these the roles these two were meant to have? And, let us not forget the original author. Because readers don’t know who this author is, either! What mystery surrounds them?
As a ‘slow-burn’ romance it is a pleasant, witty, and heart-felt charmer. Not perfect, or my favorite of Silver’s, but still an easy read that most readers will most likely gravitate to this summer!...more
I wouldn’t have even noticed this book, hadn’t I been waiting for her latest one, “Heartwood” which is on the hot waitlist at my local library. So, I I wouldn’t have even noticed this book, hadn’t I been waiting for her latest one, “Heartwood” which is on the hot waitlist at my local library. So, I thought I would check-it out on one of my recent local library visits since it mentioned it was a psychological suspense thriller.
So, what did I think?
Something is terribly wrong. Why is Juliet hanging out in her closet? And, that is how readers first meet Juliet, the ‘sea wife’ who has retreated from her family. It will take a while before readers understand exactly what is going on or what has happened.
In Juliet’s present-day narrative, she regains family life with her two children and begins to recount the experience of living with her family on a 44-foot sailboat. Thus, giving readers a sense of what constitutes a sea wife. (Hence: the title of the book.)
We also get Michael’s point of view from his ship’s logs. And, sometimes we hear from Sybil’s young voice, their 7-year-old.
Readers learn that it is Michael’s desired bliss to have a year-long odyssey sail to Panama before returning home to Connecticut.
It becomes clear to readers that this is clearly not Juliet’s dream, but she wants to support her husband. Their children, Sybil (7) and George (2) thrive on this adventure, but there is no escaping whatever ailed Juliet and Michael’s marriage.
The author gives readers a strong sense of the scenic challenges of life at sea.
Clearly, this isn’t the trip that this couple had hoped for, and readers will feel dread almost immediately through a series of unfortunate events. And, as the family found themselves adrift, it was easy to be adrift as a reader without quotation marks around the author’s characters’ dialogue.
Whatever eventually happened to the characters, (no spoilers from me) it was hard to know how to feel about it. The story is definitely, tense, awkward, compelling, multi-layered and unsettling. But to be honest, I am still shaking my head wondering about what I just read. I may be an outlier, so please read other reviews.
This is a rather different mystery with two timelines depicting two artists around a mural centered in the town of Ederton, NC.
The first story takes This is a rather different mystery with two timelines depicting two artists around a mural centered in the town of Ederton, NC.
The first story takes place in 1939. It tells the original beginning of the mural, being designed and painted by an artist named Anna. And then, Anna mysteriously disappears. Why?
Fast forward to 2018 when Morgan, a former art student who is a current prisoner is offered an early release if she will restore the mural. But as she is working on it, she becomes curious about Anna and begins to want to find answers to her disappearance. Could those answers be in the story that the mural tells?
Readers will go back and forth in time to learn more about these women’s lives. Their voices will be captivating and compelling capturing readers attention along the way. Will Morgan be able to unravel the mystery and find herself, as well?
The author weaves an interesting historical mystery with fascinating characters that will keep readers engaged.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end....more
Some of my neighbors call me the Book Whisperer. When they come by my Little Free Library Shed and I am present, they ask me to suggest books to read,Some of my neighbors call me the Book Whisperer. When they come by my Little Free Library Shed and I am present, they ask me to suggest books to read, and I usually will hand them a book that I think might appeal to them, and they go off hopeful that I selected the right book. And, I go back in my house hopeful that I did the same.
In this case, with this book, my 77-year-old neighbor brought this book to me. He said he had a love-hate relationship with this author, and was anxious to hear what I thought about it. He felt because I loved dogs, that I might like her stories about the dogs. (No spoilers from me.)
Willow, an Asian transgender, comes to my LFL at least once a week. The other day we had the opportunity to talk about books and how much they appreciated all the variety of books I made available in my LFL. Will they like this one perhaps for all the questions about life it brings up?
The reason I am sharing my thoughts and ‘role’ as a Book Whisperer, is that this is what I love about my LFL. The experience of what books bring to our neighborhood. Discussion. About all kinds of books. And, a sense of community. We need more books, and connection, and the ability to just have civil discussion about life in general with each other in our crazy, mixed-up world these days. Right?
This book won the English-Speaking Union’s Ambassador Book Award for Fiction in 2007. It was also named one of “The Ten Best Books of the Year” by the New York Times in 2006 and was a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award in 2007. Hempel won the Rea Award for the Short Story in 2008 and she received the PEN/Malamud Award for Short Fiction in 2009.
Hempel’s “Collected Stories” is made up of four slim volumes of previously published stories: ‘Reasons to Live,’ ‘At the Gates of the Animal Kingdom,’ ‘Tumble Home,’ and ‘The Dog of the Marriage.’
In many ways the stories are weird, unsettling, disquieting, and yet, amazingly expressive. They epitomize the true short story, by being blissfully short. Sometimes humorous, but even when they are, it takes a moment to get the joke.
And, who exactly are Hempel’s narrators? Do we want to know them? How can we even describe them? If readers eventually get them, through her story “Offertory” maybe it will make sense. And, that is all that will matter. Because that is what is so interesting about her – to read her is an experience. An individual one. Just like what my 77-year-old neighbor was describing. He felt different things about her work. And, so did I. I have a feeling if you give her a chance, you will, too. ...more
Poe Webb is the host of a popular true crime podcast series that gets people to confess their crimes on her show. So, why would her guests put themselPoe Webb is the host of a popular true crime podcast series that gets people to confess their crimes on her show. So, why would her guests put themselves at such risk? Let alone Poe?
She can’t guarantee the police won’t come after her “guests.” But her show grants anonymity and instant fame – which could be a very dangerous combination that is also hard to resist.
There is also one slightly terrible problem with what Poe is doing. She is harboring a terrible secret. And, when Hindley comes on her show appearing oddly familiar, it soon becomes clear to Poe that he knows her terrible secret. What is she going to do?
What does Hindley know about Poe? And, what is Poe going to do about Hindley now?
This heart-pounding, gripping, page-turning psychological thriller will keep readers thoroughly engaged wanting to know the truth....more
It was local library day for me. I always love this day because I get to walk around the stacks and pick and check-out books to read. I haven’t been dIt was local library day for me. I always love this day because I get to walk around the stacks and pick and check-out books to read. I haven’t been doing this lately, especially since we had been busy with our grandsons. So, now that they were back home with their parents, this was a long over-due personal activity.
It was also a few days before #NOKINGSDAY, so having this book staring out at me, seemed like a perfect read.
I found myself loving this author and all that she stood for in service to this country. For those who may want a reminder to her famous 4 minute+ speech in 2022, here is a link: Hate Won’t Win: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mxWL...
I also loved the title of the book. I really want to believe it and promote the idea of it everywhere. Maybe if we say it enough times, it CAN become true.
Because so far, every indication of what is happening from top/down tells me differently.
As an example, very recently, our California citizens learned of an unwarranted assault and arrest of our own Senator Alex Padilla.
And, consider the morning of Saturday, June 14, 2025 when a lone gunman while posing as a police officer, shot and killed a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband, and their precious pet dog, Gilbert; and, wounded two more who are currently in stable condition.
Even if these events I mention above seem separate, we could always count on Presidents in the past to say something. Not so with this one. A sitting president refusing to call the governor of a state after two elected officials were shot, one fatally, is beyond words. A typical president, regardless of politics, would pick up the phone. Offer condolences. Ask what the federal government can do to help and show leadership. The horrific violence that seems to be celebrated and encouraged by this President is reckless, troubling, dangerous and dehumanizing.
So, reading books like this one feels significant in moments of political discontent. The title of this book, as mentioned earlier, is taken verbatim from a speech that launched the author in to political notoriety. Something she didn’t initially desire for herself. See link above.
I also love the subtitle: “Find your Power & Leave this Place Better than you Found It.” We need a lot more of this too, don’t you think?
The book is divided into three areas: Memoir, Call-to-action, and a Workbook.
Of course, it is nice to learn more about the author’s life, and what makes her such a motivational role model. But the book could also be considered inspirational for anybody who wants to make a difference in their community and beyond. And yet, what makes this book really work is the workbook section which provides many actionable steps towards building community and creating change.
For anyone looking for a way out of the divisiveness of politics, this book provides credible insights. It can also be utilized as a viable textbook....more