She'd never been kissed this way. She'd never responded this way. Everything in her life had been slow and disciplined, well-planned and properly paced. Yet she felt alive now and decidedly reckless. She suddenly ached to know all it was that she's missed for so long. (p.201)
In search of a much needed escape this week, I immersed myself in a good ol' romance novel. And Moment To Moment by Barbara Delinsky did not let me down! Yes, it's the usual formula: girl meets boy, they try to fight their attraction to one another, they fall in love, they have obstacles to overcome, they overcome those obstacles with their new love for each other, and then they live happily ever after; but, ohhhhhh, it was just what I needed.
Dana has only been on her own for the past five years. Her asthma has caused her family to be overly protective all of her life. But now she leads her own life, runs on a regular basis, and seldom suffers from her disease. However, one night while running she has an attack and a handsome man stops to assist her. Enter into the story Russ, a confirmed bachelor who finds Dana to be everything he has ever wanted. After their brief encounter, he begins to court her very slowly per her directions. However, she keeps her asthma a secret from him because the condition makes her feel insecure, inadequate, and restrained. When their attraction is at its strongest and they finally profess their love for one another, Dana informs Russ of her medical condition as well as of her newest challenge, something that she has decided to accomplish in order to prove something to her family and others... but more importantly to herself.
Her voice grew tremulous. "I love you. But I won't be an invalid again. I want your love, your companionship, your protection, but not your smothering. At least not where my asthma is concerned." ... Finally he shook his head in defeat. "I don't know whether to throttle you or to hug you." Stretching one long arm up, he opted for the latter. "You have my love. You'll always have that. ..." (p.265)
Moment To Moment was a fast, dreamy, and (yes, sometimes steamy!) fun book to read. I recommend it to others looking for a brief romantic escape. Although technically this was my last book for the Romance Reading Challenge, I now plan to move on to my alternates list so that I can continue satisfying the romantic side of my reading adventures.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
Just Who Will You Be?
While sick for two days back in April, I found myself on the couch watching talk shows. I saw Carly Simon singing with her son on Good Morning America. I saw Ellen DeGeneres dancing to Madonna's newest tunes. And I watched Rachel Ray interview Maria Shriver about her latest book. Now this can be dangerous because when I began feeling better I found myself visiting Amazon.com for some goodies. The two CD's and book soon became a part of my personal collection.
Mini-challenge #10 is to read something inspirational and tell the group why it inspired you. Just Who Will You Be? Big Question. Little Book. Answer Within. by Maria Shriver is based on the commencement speech she gave at her nephew's college graduation. The slim book is divided into three parts: an introduction, the speech, and lessons learned. The question Just Who Will You Be? inspired Maria Shriver to think about the current and future direction of her life. Her message is that it is not what you do in life but who you are that really matters.
Although the book's overall tone and message were a bit lukewarm to me, I did find several passages inspirational:
But sometimes life happens to you, and --- bingo! --- your idea of who you think you are just goes up in smoke. (p.7)
I've learned that asking ourselves not just what we want to be, but who we want to be is important at every stage of our lives, not just when we're starting out in the world. That's because, in a way, we're starting out fresh in the world every single day. (pp.17-18)
I had told them "the only way to find a life of meaning and joy is to find your own voice, find your own path, follow your own heart, and live your own life, not an imitation of somebody else's." (p.65)
When I reflected on that question, I realized I'd been answering it wrong my whole life. I'd always answered it with my resume. But the true answer, I saw, is about my heart, my values, and my soul. Who I am, not what I am. (p.76)
I now realize that everyone I've ever met in my life who's interesting, who has a life of deep meaning and joy, is still open to new answers to that question, new opportunities for change and growth. (p.80)
I finally learned after all these years that I don't need to define myself with a certain job or a certain name or a certain role in order to tell myself who I am. I've learned that all my roles are simply a part of me --- but they're not all of me. (p.83)
The last three statements are most inspirational to me, as I am in my mid-forties, my children are slowly becoming adults, and my roles in family, job, and community are taking on new directions. Just Who Will You Be? reminded me that my heart, values, and soul are what make me who I am, not my roles or resume.
The book was worth the time reading but I did not really find anything new when it came to the book's main message. Reading it was not life changing, just slightly inspirational.
Mini-challenge #10 is to read something inspirational and tell the group why it inspired you. Just Who Will You Be? Big Question. Little Book. Answer Within. by Maria Shriver is based on the commencement speech she gave at her nephew's college graduation. The slim book is divided into three parts: an introduction, the speech, and lessons learned. The question Just Who Will You Be? inspired Maria Shriver to think about the current and future direction of her life. Her message is that it is not what you do in life but who you are that really matters.
Although the book's overall tone and message were a bit lukewarm to me, I did find several passages inspirational:
But sometimes life happens to you, and --- bingo! --- your idea of who you think you are just goes up in smoke. (p.7)
I've learned that asking ourselves not just what we want to be, but who we want to be is important at every stage of our lives, not just when we're starting out in the world. That's because, in a way, we're starting out fresh in the world every single day. (pp.17-18)
I had told them "the only way to find a life of meaning and joy is to find your own voice, find your own path, follow your own heart, and live your own life, not an imitation of somebody else's." (p.65)
When I reflected on that question, I realized I'd been answering it wrong my whole life. I'd always answered it with my resume. But the true answer, I saw, is about my heart, my values, and my soul. Who I am, not what I am. (p.76)
I now realize that everyone I've ever met in my life who's interesting, who has a life of deep meaning and joy, is still open to new answers to that question, new opportunities for change and growth. (p.80)
I finally learned after all these years that I don't need to define myself with a certain job or a certain name or a certain role in order to tell myself who I am. I've learned that all my roles are simply a part of me --- but they're not all of me. (p.83)
The last three statements are most inspirational to me, as I am in my mid-forties, my children are slowly becoming adults, and my roles in family, job, and community are taking on new directions. Just Who Will You Be? reminded me that my heart, values, and soul are what make me who I am, not my roles or resume.
The book was worth the time reading but I did not really find anything new when it came to the book's main message. Reading it was not life changing, just slightly inspirational.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
The Book Of Jane
"Look, Lee. My life is good. I know that. And I'm very grateful for it. God has really blessed me, and I'm ---"
"Oh please. You're always talking about God," he says, shaking his head. "What if you didn't have it so easy, Miss Religious? Would you still be so 'God is my best friend' all the time? I don't thinks so. You'd be down here in the trenches with the rest of us."
I take a deep breath. "I suppose the less you have, the more you have to trust God," I say, but it sounds a little hollow, even to my ears. ... "I have been very fortunate," I say and nod, thinking. "But you know, even if tomorrow it were all gone, I'd still be thankful for all that God has done."
"Would you?" Lee asks, narrowing his eyes.
"I would," I say sitting back down on the lounger. "Absolutely."
"I hope you never get the opportunity to test that statement," he says.
"I hope I do," I say, locking eyes with him. "Then you'd see." (p. 13)
The Book Of Jane by Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt is hailed as a contemporary retelling of the story of Job. Jane Williams lives in Manhattan and has it all: a wonderful boyfriend, an ideal job in PR, a cozy apartment, a doting family, and wonderful, supportive friends. That is, she has it all until her life takes an abrupt turn for the worse and she has to slowly determine what is really important in life.
Jane loses her job, her boyfriend informs her he is leaving, she has a fight with her mother, her friend's mother is dying of cancer, her apartment floods, her dog becomes seriously ill, and none of her friends seem to have time to come to her rescue... all in the course of 48 hours. After finding a cheap hotel to spend the night, she thinks she is about to figure it all out when her life is threatened and she gets mugged. Now she has a perfect opportunity to test the statement she just made the day before her life fell apart.
"And what do you plan to do about it?" he asks, turning back to me, squinting at the sun in his face.
"I'm still trying to figure that out," I laugh, looking around. "I'm sure if I sit here long enough inspiration will come to me."
"Perhaps," he says, nodding. "Or maybe," he says, brushing his damp hair back, "this isn't yours to figure out."
I look at him, lifting my eyebrows. "What do you mean?"
"I just mean, maybe this is bigger than you are, Jane. And maybe you are just supposed to trust."
He turns his face away from me, looking at the river. His profile is clean, even a little handsome. I have no idea how to respond, so I just nod.
"I'm sure it'll all work out," Coates says abruptly, then begins to stand up.
"Yeah, maybe," I mutter. (p. 116)
Jane experiences some life changing moments that include humility, grace, and reconciliation. These experiences help her put life into perspective as well as evaluate what is really important to hang on to and what is not. She also realizes that she has been lying to herself about many aspects of her life. And, she concludes that she is trying to control too many things in her life that need to be let go. With the help of Coates, Lee and his mother Mary Sue, and her friend Raquel and Brownie Troop 192, Jane finds a more balanced life, the true meaning of a good life, the deep ties of friendship, and the hope that better things will come in time.
The Book Of Jane is a simple and fun read with a strong message that is hidden under its disguise of chick lit. I loved its characters, humor, and "feel good" ending. I originally discovered this book from Lisa after she interviewed the authors when it was first released. I definitely recommend this book to others.
"Oh please. You're always talking about God," he says, shaking his head. "What if you didn't have it so easy, Miss Religious? Would you still be so 'God is my best friend' all the time? I don't thinks so. You'd be down here in the trenches with the rest of us."
I take a deep breath. "I suppose the less you have, the more you have to trust God," I say, but it sounds a little hollow, even to my ears. ... "I have been very fortunate," I say and nod, thinking. "But you know, even if tomorrow it were all gone, I'd still be thankful for all that God has done."
"Would you?" Lee asks, narrowing his eyes.
"I would," I say sitting back down on the lounger. "Absolutely."
"I hope you never get the opportunity to test that statement," he says.
"I hope I do," I say, locking eyes with him. "Then you'd see." (p. 13)
The Book Of Jane by Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt is hailed as a contemporary retelling of the story of Job. Jane Williams lives in Manhattan and has it all: a wonderful boyfriend, an ideal job in PR, a cozy apartment, a doting family, and wonderful, supportive friends. That is, she has it all until her life takes an abrupt turn for the worse and she has to slowly determine what is really important in life.
Jane loses her job, her boyfriend informs her he is leaving, she has a fight with her mother, her friend's mother is dying of cancer, her apartment floods, her dog becomes seriously ill, and none of her friends seem to have time to come to her rescue... all in the course of 48 hours. After finding a cheap hotel to spend the night, she thinks she is about to figure it all out when her life is threatened and she gets mugged. Now she has a perfect opportunity to test the statement she just made the day before her life fell apart.
"And what do you plan to do about it?" he asks, turning back to me, squinting at the sun in his face.
"I'm still trying to figure that out," I laugh, looking around. "I'm sure if I sit here long enough inspiration will come to me."
"Perhaps," he says, nodding. "Or maybe," he says, brushing his damp hair back, "this isn't yours to figure out."
I look at him, lifting my eyebrows. "What do you mean?"
"I just mean, maybe this is bigger than you are, Jane. And maybe you are just supposed to trust."
He turns his face away from me, looking at the river. His profile is clean, even a little handsome. I have no idea how to respond, so I just nod.
"I'm sure it'll all work out," Coates says abruptly, then begins to stand up.
"Yeah, maybe," I mutter. (p. 116)
Jane experiences some life changing moments that include humility, grace, and reconciliation. These experiences help her put life into perspective as well as evaluate what is really important to hang on to and what is not. She also realizes that she has been lying to herself about many aspects of her life. And, she concludes that she is trying to control too many things in her life that need to be let go. With the help of Coates, Lee and his mother Mary Sue, and her friend Raquel and Brownie Troop 192, Jane finds a more balanced life, the true meaning of a good life, the deep ties of friendship, and the hope that better things will come in time.
The Book Of Jane is a simple and fun read with a strong message that is hidden under its disguise of chick lit. I loved its characters, humor, and "feel good" ending. I originally discovered this book from Lisa after she interviewed the authors when it was first released. I definitely recommend this book to others.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Sophie's Heart
Sophie looked at him. "I was so lonely in Chicago that I had to seek out fellowship, so I went to this church and a woman named Janet was kind to me. And then she said there is a man who has children and his wife is dead and he is lost, would I go? I went. I came to take care of you and the children, but you end up taking care of me. When will I stop being amazed at how much God loves me?" (p.387)
Following a conversation almost a year and a half ago about Christian fiction authors, my friend Victoria recommended a book she had just finished. A few days later she handed me Lori Wick's Sophie's Heart. It sat on my bookshelf waiting its turn to be read. And now I ask myself, "Why did I wait so long?!?"
Sophia Velikonja has finally made the list, the list of people who are now able to leave Czechoslovakia to begin a new life in the United States. She leaves behind a cherished grandmother but slowly begins to make new friends. One morning on her way to work she stops into a church and briefly attends a women's bible study. There she meets Janet who feels an immediate closeness to Sophie. Janet and her husband David are soon moved to ask Sophie a very big favor. Janet's brother Alec Riley has recently lost his wife in a car accident, and he and his three children are still recovering from their loss. Janet and David believe Sophie just might be the person to help take care of this family by becoming their housekeeper. That is, if Alec and his family can trust God in opening their hearts to life and love once again.
I often become engulfed in the stories of the books I read, but occasionally I become so totally engrossed that I have to take a few minutes to return to reality after finishing each chapter. This is what happened while I was reading Sophie's Heart. The characters are so realistic and the setting is so ideal that I lost myself in the lives of Sophie and the Riley family for the past few days. A real page turner, the story is full of faith, hope, and new beginnings. Sophie's love for God, family, and life is alive with action and feeling. Alec's healing is slow and tender. And the kids are fun to watch as they heal, adapt, and move forward in their young lives. The story covers a lot of ground in the two years that it encompasses, but the details and length do not by any means slow down the reading of this book.
What a passage it had been, but surely the best was yet to come. Surely God would still guide. It wasn't every day they had this level of excitement, but then that was all right. They needed the everyday routine, too, the ups and downs, the busy times and the slow. It was all held so closely in the heart of a woman who had simply asked God to show her His way. It was Sophie's heart, yes, but more importantly, God's heart. Sophie knew there was no safer place to abide. (p.425)
A wonderful story of love, faith, growth and healing, Sophie's Heart by Lori Wick brought smiles, laughter, and tears to my reading experience. I only wish I had read this book sooner.
Following a conversation almost a year and a half ago about Christian fiction authors, my friend Victoria recommended a book she had just finished. A few days later she handed me Lori Wick's Sophie's Heart. It sat on my bookshelf waiting its turn to be read. And now I ask myself, "Why did I wait so long?!?"
Sophia Velikonja has finally made the list, the list of people who are now able to leave Czechoslovakia to begin a new life in the United States. She leaves behind a cherished grandmother but slowly begins to make new friends. One morning on her way to work she stops into a church and briefly attends a women's bible study. There she meets Janet who feels an immediate closeness to Sophie. Janet and her husband David are soon moved to ask Sophie a very big favor. Janet's brother Alec Riley has recently lost his wife in a car accident, and he and his three children are still recovering from their loss. Janet and David believe Sophie just might be the person to help take care of this family by becoming their housekeeper. That is, if Alec and his family can trust God in opening their hearts to life and love once again.
I often become engulfed in the stories of the books I read, but occasionally I become so totally engrossed that I have to take a few minutes to return to reality after finishing each chapter. This is what happened while I was reading Sophie's Heart. The characters are so realistic and the setting is so ideal that I lost myself in the lives of Sophie and the Riley family for the past few days. A real page turner, the story is full of faith, hope, and new beginnings. Sophie's love for God, family, and life is alive with action and feeling. Alec's healing is slow and tender. And the kids are fun to watch as they heal, adapt, and move forward in their young lives. The story covers a lot of ground in the two years that it encompasses, but the details and length do not by any means slow down the reading of this book.
What a passage it had been, but surely the best was yet to come. Surely God would still guide. It wasn't every day they had this level of excitement, but then that was all right. They needed the everyday routine, too, the ups and downs, the busy times and the slow. It was all held so closely in the heart of a woman who had simply asked God to show her His way. It was Sophie's heart, yes, but more importantly, God's heart. Sophie knew there was no safer place to abide. (p.425)
A wonderful story of love, faith, growth and healing, Sophie's Heart by Lori Wick brought smiles, laughter, and tears to my reading experience. I only wish I had read this book sooner.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Disney Literature Challenge
I told myself NO MORE CHALLENGES... but I can't resist! Besides, this one is perpetual and looks like a lot of fun! I am hoping to compliment my current and future challenges by sneaking in a book here and there for this creative challenge.
Sarah is hosting a Disney Literature Challenge: Let's dig up the uncorrupted originals, and see how these stories looked before Uncle Walt had his way with them, shall we?
I have to admit I don't think I have read many, if any, of the original books, but I have seen plenty of Disney's movie versions. (I have four kids!) Sarah has graciously created a list of books, so I am not going to post a reading list. Instead, as I read for this challenge I will post reviews and label them Disney Lit.
With it being perpetual I have all the time in the world!
Sarah is hosting a Disney Literature Challenge: Let's dig up the uncorrupted originals, and see how these stories looked before Uncle Walt had his way with them, shall we?
I have to admit I don't think I have read many, if any, of the original books, but I have seen plenty of Disney's movie versions. (I have four kids!) Sarah has graciously created a list of books, so I am not going to post a reading list. Instead, as I read for this challenge I will post reviews and label them Disney Lit.
With it being perpetual I have all the time in the world!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
It's Tuesday, where are you?
Are you on a real vacation or is reading your main way to get away?
That is the question posed this week by raidergirl3 who hosts Where are you? every Tuesday. Reading is my main way to get away, and this month has been a wonderful vacation! I started my July travels in the small prairie town of Manawaka (Canada). Next, I spent two weeks on Nantucket enjoying the sunshine and beach. I then took a road trip from Ohio to Idaho. This weekend I spent some time in Paris learning the language and meeting new people. And today I am in Middleton, Wisconsin meeting a new family that needs some help recovering from the loss of a loved one.
Ahhhhh, the places a book can take you on vacation! I can't wait to plan my next destination!
CR: Sophie's Heart by Lori Wick
That is the question posed this week by raidergirl3 who hosts Where are you? every Tuesday. Reading is my main way to get away, and this month has been a wonderful vacation! I started my July travels in the small prairie town of Manawaka (Canada). Next, I spent two weeks on Nantucket enjoying the sunshine and beach. I then took a road trip from Ohio to Idaho. This weekend I spent some time in Paris learning the language and meeting new people. And today I am in Middleton, Wisconsin meeting a new family that needs some help recovering from the loss of a loved one.
Ahhhhh, the places a book can take you on vacation! I can't wait to plan my next destination!
CR: Sophie's Heart by Lori Wick
Monday, July 21, 2008
Me Talk Pretty One Day
My fear and discomfort crept beyond the borders of the classroom and accompanied me out onto the wide boulevards. Stopping for a coffee, asking directions, depositing money in my bank account: these things were out of the question, as they involved having to speak [French]. Before beginning school, there'd be no shutting me up, but now I was convinced that everything I said was wrong. When the phone rang, I ignored it. If someone asked me a question, I pretended to be deaf. I knew my fear was getting the best of me when I started wondering why they don't sell cuts of meat in vending machines. (pp. 171-172)
My son was teasing me this past weekend while I was enjoying David Sedaris' book Me Talk Pretty One Day. He said, "There goes Mom again... giggling while she reads a book!" But there is no other way to describe this book other than a collection of funny yet simple essays about the life and times of David Sedaris as told by David Sedaris. The first section (one) recounts stories of Sedaris in the United States and the second section (deux) recounts stories of Sedaris in France. He covers many different topics during different times in his life, often times expressing or explaining the difficulties he has had in understanding people, things, and language. My favorite selections include Genetic Engineering, The Learning Curve, Today's Special, Nutcracker.com, The Tapeworm Is In, Make That A Double, and Smart Guy.
As a child I'd always harbored a sneaking suspicion that I might be a genius. The theory was completely my own, corroborated by no one, but so what? Being misunderstood was all part of the package. My father occasionally referred to me as "Smart Guy," but eventually I realized that when saying it, he usually meant just the opposite. (p. 241)
Me Talk Pretty One Day is a smart read, lots of fun, and a good introduction to David Sedaris, which is why it was recommended to me in the first place. I really enjoyed this book and pass along the recommendation to others.
My son was teasing me this past weekend while I was enjoying David Sedaris' book Me Talk Pretty One Day. He said, "There goes Mom again... giggling while she reads a book!" But there is no other way to describe this book other than a collection of funny yet simple essays about the life and times of David Sedaris as told by David Sedaris. The first section (one) recounts stories of Sedaris in the United States and the second section (deux) recounts stories of Sedaris in France. He covers many different topics during different times in his life, often times expressing or explaining the difficulties he has had in understanding people, things, and language. My favorite selections include Genetic Engineering, The Learning Curve, Today's Special, Nutcracker.com, The Tapeworm Is In, Make That A Double, and Smart Guy.
As a child I'd always harbored a sneaking suspicion that I might be a genius. The theory was completely my own, corroborated by no one, but so what? Being misunderstood was all part of the package. My father occasionally referred to me as "Smart Guy," but eventually I realized that when saying it, he usually meant just the opposite. (p. 241)
Me Talk Pretty One Day is a smart read, lots of fun, and a good introduction to David Sedaris, which is why it was recommended to me in the first place. I really enjoyed this book and pass along the recommendation to others.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Walk Two Moons
It seems to me that we can't explain all the truly awful things in the world like war and murder and brain tumors, and we can't fix these things, so we look at the frightening things that are closer to us and we magnify them until they burst open. Inside is something that we can manage, something that isn't as awful as it had at first seemed. It is a relief to discover that although there might be axe murderers and kidnappers in the world, most people seem a lot like us: sometimes afraid and sometimes brave, sometimes cruel and sometimes kind. (p.277)
In celebration of an author's birthday in July, I read Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech. This book was the 1995 winner of the Newbery Medal Award. A story within a story, the reader meets Salamanca Tree Hiddle, better known as Sal, as she is traveling with Gram and Gramps to Idaho to wish her mother, who left the family a year and a half ago, a happy birthday. Along the way she recounts the story of when her friend Phoebe's mother recently disappeared. Details included a possible murder, kidnapping, and lunatic. Also, mysterious messages were left on her porch, sharing such wisdom as: Don't judge a man until you've walked two moons in his moccasins. While traveling and retelling the story, Sal and her grandparents visit various locations along the way. The trio experience a week's journey that they will never forget.
Lately, I've been wondering if there might be something hidden behind the fireplace, because just as the fireplace was behind the plaster wall and my mother's story was behind Phoebe's, I think there was a third story behind Phoebe's and my mother's, and that was about Gram and Gramps. (p.274)
Beautifully written and tender to the heart, Walk Two Moons has you think about how we process our fears, losses, and thoughts of other people. With language that made me laugh out loud (pet names like gooseberry and chickabiddy), expressions that made me think (I still fish in the air sometimes.), and actions that made me scratch my head (kissing trees and wandering into other people's homes), I found myself lost in this wonderful book about discovery. Sharon Creech's book is one that should be read by adults as well as children. I highly recommend it.
In celebration of an author's birthday in July, I read Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech. This book was the 1995 winner of the Newbery Medal Award. A story within a story, the reader meets Salamanca Tree Hiddle, better known as Sal, as she is traveling with Gram and Gramps to Idaho to wish her mother, who left the family a year and a half ago, a happy birthday. Along the way she recounts the story of when her friend Phoebe's mother recently disappeared. Details included a possible murder, kidnapping, and lunatic. Also, mysterious messages were left on her porch, sharing such wisdom as: Don't judge a man until you've walked two moons in his moccasins. While traveling and retelling the story, Sal and her grandparents visit various locations along the way. The trio experience a week's journey that they will never forget.
Lately, I've been wondering if there might be something hidden behind the fireplace, because just as the fireplace was behind the plaster wall and my mother's story was behind Phoebe's, I think there was a third story behind Phoebe's and my mother's, and that was about Gram and Gramps. (p.274)
Beautifully written and tender to the heart, Walk Two Moons has you think about how we process our fears, losses, and thoughts of other people. With language that made me laugh out loud (pet names like gooseberry and chickabiddy), expressions that made me think (I still fish in the air sometimes.), and actions that made me scratch my head (kissing trees and wandering into other people's homes), I found myself lost in this wonderful book about discovery. Sharon Creech's book is one that should be read by adults as well as children. I highly recommend it.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Barefoot
When Josh knocked on the door, it swung open, taking him by surprise. He had never set foot inside of one of these little 'Sconset cottages, and he thought it might smell like a library book or a museum --- ancient, dusty, preserved. But instead the air was redolent of clean hair and perfumed shoulders, toenail polish and swinging skirts. This was the house of the three . . . the three what? The Three Bears? The three beers? Three women step off of a plane. Wasn't there some ancient tale about three sirens who led sailors astray? Josh knew what Chas Gorda would say: Listen. Observe. Absorb. Because Josh had finally found his story. The story of his summer. (pp. 104-105)
Not only is Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand a story of Josh's summer, it is also the story of the summer of the three women he was about to meet: Vicki, Brenda, and Melanie. All four main characters have their individual pasts, current problems, and future doubts. All four have significant others that have led them on their current courses of action. And all four will share their lives with one another for the next three summer months as they spend time on the island of Nantucket to discover life, love, and happiness.
One character is beginning her struggle with lung cancer. Her summer will entail coming to grips with her body and mortality while receiving chemo treatments so that a later surgery can be scheduled to save her life. One character has just lost her career as a professor due to having an inappropriate relationship with a student and then damaging a prized painting on campus. One character has just discovered she is pregnant after finding out her husband is having an affair with someone from his office. And one character has just been hired as a babysitter for the two young boys of one of these women. But he too has problems of his own with his longtime girlfriend and her latest crisis.
I loved getting involved with these characters and their personal journeys. The story is told by all four characters as they share their past histories, their current views on life and loved ones, and their dreams for the future. Full of chuckles, groans, smiles, and tears, Barefoot covers the gamete for a fun summer read. This was my second book by Elin Hilderbrand and I plan on more in the future!
Not only is Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand a story of Josh's summer, it is also the story of the summer of the three women he was about to meet: Vicki, Brenda, and Melanie. All four main characters have their individual pasts, current problems, and future doubts. All four have significant others that have led them on their current courses of action. And all four will share their lives with one another for the next three summer months as they spend time on the island of Nantucket to discover life, love, and happiness.
One character is beginning her struggle with lung cancer. Her summer will entail coming to grips with her body and mortality while receiving chemo treatments so that a later surgery can be scheduled to save her life. One character has just lost her career as a professor due to having an inappropriate relationship with a student and then damaging a prized painting on campus. One character has just discovered she is pregnant after finding out her husband is having an affair with someone from his office. And one character has just been hired as a babysitter for the two young boys of one of these women. But he too has problems of his own with his longtime girlfriend and her latest crisis.
I loved getting involved with these characters and their personal journeys. The story is told by all four characters as they share their past histories, their current views on life and loved ones, and their dreams for the future. Full of chuckles, groans, smiles, and tears, Barefoot covers the gamete for a fun summer read. This was my second book by Elin Hilderbrand and I plan on more in the future!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
It's Tuesday, where are you?
Yes, to be in Nantucket on the beach for another week... what a joy! I am on Shell Street, 'Sconset staying at Aunt Liv's cottage with three women, two young children, a dad who visits on the weekend, a local college boy who has been hired to babysit, and a crazy girlfriend. They all have their reasons for spending the summer on Nantucket... but, as one character's mother always swore: "... any ailment in the world --- physical or emotional --- could be cured by a little Nantucket sand between your toes." (p.10)
CR: Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand
(Where are you? is hosted by raidergirl3 every Tuesday.)
CR: Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand
(Where are you? is hosted by raidergirl3 every Tuesday.)
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Findings & Impressions
"It's not my business, I suppose, but I thought you were her doctor. I wouldn't have woken you. It said Dr. Sean so I thought we'd better call you."
"Well, I'm her radiologist."
"I see," says Ed, looking puzzled. "Like you take her x-rays?"
Stellar Kim's short story Findings & Impressions begins with an x-ray evaluation and ends with an unlikely friendship. Sean Miller meets Alicia Straninsky when she arrives to pick up the results of her recent mammogram. Sean is taken by surprise that a patient is questioning the results before receiving them from the doctor. Even though Sean has a hard time remembering names and faces, he hasn't forgotten what he wrote in her evaluation: breast cancer. A couple weeks later the couple run into one another as Alicia is leaving the hospital after her first radiation treatment. Sean offers her a ride home and they soon begin a routine of rides home after treatment which includes drives to the harbor, occasional hot dogs, and guarded conversations.
"Don't talk like that," I say, and Alicia looks at me with some expectation. "Don't ever think that again. You're beautiful," I add after a while. The way her face opens up, the way Alicia's eyes become liquid, suddenly make even the possibility of her disappearance unbearable. I think, maybe I've never realized the possible permutations of beauty.
However, Sean has a hard time becoming Alicia's friend due to a past loss of his own. When Nick, Sean's young son, meets Alicia and wants to see more of her, Sean withdraws from the friendship. Alicia says she understands and moves forward in her fight for life. Then one night Sean receives a phone call from Ed. And then one summer afternoon he receives a second call and, later, a special request.
I very much enjoyed the short story Findings & Impressions. Its presentation was unique, the characters seemed very true to life, and the message about the fear of moving on was written in a gentle and realistic manner. Which character to pin my hopes on was a difficult decision and changed often as the story unfolded. And I definitely enjoyed the twist at the end.
"Findings & Impressions" by Stellar Kim (from The Iowa Review) from The Best American Short Stories 2007 edited by Stephen King with Heidi Pitlor
"Well, I'm her radiologist."
"I see," says Ed, looking puzzled. "Like you take her x-rays?"
Stellar Kim's short story Findings & Impressions begins with an x-ray evaluation and ends with an unlikely friendship. Sean Miller meets Alicia Straninsky when she arrives to pick up the results of her recent mammogram. Sean is taken by surprise that a patient is questioning the results before receiving them from the doctor. Even though Sean has a hard time remembering names and faces, he hasn't forgotten what he wrote in her evaluation: breast cancer. A couple weeks later the couple run into one another as Alicia is leaving the hospital after her first radiation treatment. Sean offers her a ride home and they soon begin a routine of rides home after treatment which includes drives to the harbor, occasional hot dogs, and guarded conversations.
"Don't talk like that," I say, and Alicia looks at me with some expectation. "Don't ever think that again. You're beautiful," I add after a while. The way her face opens up, the way Alicia's eyes become liquid, suddenly make even the possibility of her disappearance unbearable. I think, maybe I've never realized the possible permutations of beauty.
However, Sean has a hard time becoming Alicia's friend due to a past loss of his own. When Nick, Sean's young son, meets Alicia and wants to see more of her, Sean withdraws from the friendship. Alicia says she understands and moves forward in her fight for life. Then one night Sean receives a phone call from Ed. And then one summer afternoon he receives a second call and, later, a special request.
I very much enjoyed the short story Findings & Impressions. Its presentation was unique, the characters seemed very true to life, and the message about the fear of moving on was written in a gentle and realistic manner. Which character to pin my hopes on was a difficult decision and changed often as the story unfolded. And I definitely enjoyed the twist at the end.
"Findings & Impressions" by Stellar Kim (from The Iowa Review) from The Best American Short Stories 2007 edited by Stephen King with Heidi Pitlor
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The Blue Bistro
"So you came here for a job," he said. "But you have no restaurant experience. None? Not even Pizza Hut?"
"Not even Pizza Hut," she said. She envisioned herself with a tray piled high with dishes and food, glasses and drinks. She would drop it. "I don't know what I was thinking." ... Since her mother died, Adrienne's life had been like a hotel. She checked in, she stayed for a while, she checked out. "I mean, don't get me wrong. This place is lovely and the food is amazing. I'll come back for dinner once I have some..."
"Money?" Thatcher said.
"Friends," she said. (p.11)
Last month, I received a wonderful birthday gift from my parents: a gift certificate to Amazon.com. A perfect gift for a book lover! A couple of weeks ago I sat down at my computer and shopped 'til I dropped, coming away with three books and a CD. (I'm a bargain shopper even at Amazon.) It was like having my birthday all over again when the mailman arrived with my box of goodies! I chose this past weekend to begin one of the new books for two reasons: first, because it was a holiday weekend and second, because I needed a break from my challenge reading.
The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand is a great get-away to Nantucket and the life of running a high-end restaurant while falling in love. Adrienne hasn't been able to settle down after the death of her mother. Now, after ending a very bad relationship in Aspen, Adrienne is heading for Nantucket in search of a job to replace her stolen life savings. A writer on the ferry points her in the direction of the Blue Bistro, a famous restaurant that is guaranteed to earn her big money.
Restaurant life makes for a fast paced setting and an engaging story. Thatcher is the owner of the restaurant and single. Fiona is the chef that everyone jumps for yet deeply respects. Duncan is the bartender who seems to know everyone and what they drink. Caren is one of the wait staff who also happens to become Adrienne's roommate. The Subiaco family from Chicago runs the kitchen under Fiona's direction. And the front staff slowly welcomes Adrienne as she learns the ropes of running a restaurant as assistant manager under Thatcher's direction. The variety of characters working and eating at the Blue Bistro adds to this story of friendship, love, and devotion.
He didn't think it was possible --- at age thirty-five, as solitary as he like to be, as devoted to his business and Fiona, as impermeable to romance --- and yet, one morning, just as he was wondering where he was going to find the kind of help that would enable him to make it through the summer, there she was. Adrienne Dealey. Beautiful, yes, but he loves Adrienne not because she is beautiful but because she is different. He has never known a woman so free from conceit, vanity, ambition, and pretense. He has never known a woman so willing to show the world that she is a human being. He has never known a woman with such an appetite --- literal appetite, but also an appetite for adventure --- the places she's been, unafraid, all by herself. Thatcher loves her in a huge, mature, adult way. He loves her the right way. Now he has to hope that God grants her patience and understanding and faith. (pp. 350-351)
A great summer novel with romance, food, and fun, The Blue Bistro was a great read and exactly what I needed to take a break from it all. This was my first time reading Elin Hilderbrand and I know it will not be my last. In fact, I may just continue my fictional vacation in Nantucket with her book Barefoot that was also a part of my birthday order!
"Not even Pizza Hut," she said. She envisioned herself with a tray piled high with dishes and food, glasses and drinks. She would drop it. "I don't know what I was thinking." ... Since her mother died, Adrienne's life had been like a hotel. She checked in, she stayed for a while, she checked out. "I mean, don't get me wrong. This place is lovely and the food is amazing. I'll come back for dinner once I have some..."
"Money?" Thatcher said.
"Friends," she said. (p.11)
Last month, I received a wonderful birthday gift from my parents: a gift certificate to Amazon.com. A perfect gift for a book lover! A couple of weeks ago I sat down at my computer and shopped 'til I dropped, coming away with three books and a CD. (I'm a bargain shopper even at Amazon.) It was like having my birthday all over again when the mailman arrived with my box of goodies! I chose this past weekend to begin one of the new books for two reasons: first, because it was a holiday weekend and second, because I needed a break from my challenge reading.
The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand is a great get-away to Nantucket and the life of running a high-end restaurant while falling in love. Adrienne hasn't been able to settle down after the death of her mother. Now, after ending a very bad relationship in Aspen, Adrienne is heading for Nantucket in search of a job to replace her stolen life savings. A writer on the ferry points her in the direction of the Blue Bistro, a famous restaurant that is guaranteed to earn her big money.
Restaurant life makes for a fast paced setting and an engaging story. Thatcher is the owner of the restaurant and single. Fiona is the chef that everyone jumps for yet deeply respects. Duncan is the bartender who seems to know everyone and what they drink. Caren is one of the wait staff who also happens to become Adrienne's roommate. The Subiaco family from Chicago runs the kitchen under Fiona's direction. And the front staff slowly welcomes Adrienne as she learns the ropes of running a restaurant as assistant manager under Thatcher's direction. The variety of characters working and eating at the Blue Bistro adds to this story of friendship, love, and devotion.
He didn't think it was possible --- at age thirty-five, as solitary as he like to be, as devoted to his business and Fiona, as impermeable to romance --- and yet, one morning, just as he was wondering where he was going to find the kind of help that would enable him to make it through the summer, there she was. Adrienne Dealey. Beautiful, yes, but he loves Adrienne not because she is beautiful but because she is different. He has never known a woman so free from conceit, vanity, ambition, and pretense. He has never known a woman so willing to show the world that she is a human being. He has never known a woman with such an appetite --- literal appetite, but also an appetite for adventure --- the places she's been, unafraid, all by herself. Thatcher loves her in a huge, mature, adult way. He loves her the right way. Now he has to hope that God grants her patience and understanding and faith. (pp. 350-351)
A great summer novel with romance, food, and fun, The Blue Bistro was a great read and exactly what I needed to take a break from it all. This was my first time reading Elin Hilderbrand and I know it will not be my last. In fact, I may just continue my fictional vacation in Nantucket with her book Barefoot that was also a part of my birthday order!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
It's Tuesday, where are you?
I am in Nantucket with Adrienne for the last season of the famous restaurant the Blue Bistro. She is learning the ropes at running a restaurant as the Blue Bistro's new assistant manager. She is falling in love with Thatcher, the owner and manager, who seems to also have a special friendship with Fiona, the chef. It's August and the weather is beautiful. Adrienne spends a lot of time on the beach, a place I really wish I was spending my Tuesday!
CR: The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand
(Where are you? is hosted by raidergirl3 every Tuesday.)
CR: The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand
(Where are you? is hosted by raidergirl3 every Tuesday.)
Sunday, July 6, 2008
New Classics Challenge
Entertainment Weekly recently published a list of 100 books from 1983-2008 that it considers to be the New Classics. Joanna at Lost In A Good Story decided this was cause for celebration by creating a new challenge! From August 1, 2008 to January 31, 2009 participants will read six books from the list that they have not already read. At the end of the challenge, a vote will be taken to see which book is everyone's favorite. Sounds like fun to me!
Here is EW's list (bolded books being the ones I have already read):
1. The Road , Cormac McCarthy (2006)
2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, J.K. Rowling (2000)
3. Beloved, Toni Morrison (1987)
4. The Liars' Club, Mary Karr (1995)
5. American Pastoral, Philip Roth (1997)
6. Mystic River, Dennis Lehane (2001)
7. Maus, Art Spiegelman (1986/1991)
8. Selected Stories, Alice Munro (1996)
9. Cold Mountain, Charles Frazier (1997)
10. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Haruki Murakami (1997)
11. Into Thin Air, Jon Krakauer (1997)
12. Blindness, José Saramago (1998)
13. Watchmen, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons (1986-87)
14. Black Water, Joyce Carol Oates (1992)
15. A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, Dave Eggers (2000)
16. The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood (1986)
17. Love in the Time of Cholera, Gabriel García Márquez (1988)
18. Rabbit at Rest, John Updike (1990)
19. On Beauty, Zadie Smith (2005)
20. Bridget Jones's Diary, Helen Fielding (1998)
21. On Writing, Stephen King (2000)
22. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, Junot Díaz (2007)
23. The Ghost Road, Pat Barker (1996)
24. Lonesome Dove, Larry McMurtry (1985)
25. The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan (1989)
26. Neuromancer, William Gibson (1984)
27. Possession, A.S. Byatt (1990)
28. Naked, David Sedaris (1997)
29. Bel Canto, Anne Patchett (2001)
30. Case Histories, Kate Atkinson (2004)
31. The Things They Carried, Tim O'Brien (1990)
32. Parting the Waters, Taylor Branch (1988)
33. The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion (2005)
34. The Lovely Bones, Alice Sebold (2002)
35. The Line of Beauty, Alan Hollinghurst (2004)
36. Angela's Ashes, Frank McCourt (1996)
37. Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi (2003)
38. Birds of America, Lorrie Moore (1998)
39. Interpreter of Maladies, Jhumpa Lahiri (2000)
40. His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman (1995-2000)
41. The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros (1984)
42. LaBrava, Elmore Leonard (1983)
43. Borrowed Time, Paul Monette (1988)
44. Praying for Sheetrock, Melissa Fay Greene (1991)
45. Eva Luna, Isabel Allende (1988)
46. Sandman, Neil Gaiman (1988-1996)
47. World's Fair, E.L. Doctorow (1985)
48. The Poisonwood Bible, Barbara Kingsolver (1998)
49. Clockers, Richard Price (1992)
50. The Corrections, Jonathan Franzen (2001)
51. The Journalist and the Murderer, Janet Malcom (1990)
52. Waiting to Exhale, Terry McMillan (1992)
53. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, Michael Chabon (2000)
54. Jimmy Corrigan, Chris Ware (2000)
55. The Glass Castle, Jeannette Walls (2006)
56. The Night Manager, John le Carré (1993)
57. The Bonfire of the Vanities, Tom Wolfe (1987)
58. Drop City, TC Boyle (2003)
59. Krik? Krak! Edwidge Danticat (1995)
60. Nickel & Dimed, Barbara Ehrenreich (2001)
61. Money, Martin Amis (1985)
62. Last Train To Memphis, Peter Guralnick (1994)
63. Pastoralia, George Saunders (2000)
64. Underworld, Don DeLillo (1997)
65. The Giver, Lois Lowry (1993)
66. A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again, David Foster Wallace (1997)
67. The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini (2003)
68. Fun Home, Alison Bechdel (2006)
69. Secret History, Donna Tartt (1992)
70. Cloud Atlas, David Mitchell (2004)
71. The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, Ann Fadiman (1997)
72. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon (2003)
73. A Prayer for Owen Meany, John Irving (1989)
74. Friday Night Lights, H.G. Bissinger (1990)
75. Cathedral, Raymond Carver (1983)
76. A Sight for Sore Eyes, Ruth Rendell (1998)
77. The Remains of the Day, Kazuo Ishiguro (1989)
78. Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert (2006)
79. The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell (2000)
80. Bright Lights, Big City, Jay McInerney (1984)
81. Backlash, Susan Faludi (1991)
82. Atonement, Ian McEwan (2002)
83. The Stone Diaries, Carol Shields (1994)
84. Holes, Louis Sachar (1998)
85. Gilead, Marilynne Robinson (2004)
86. And the Band Played On, Randy Shilts (1987)
87. The Ruins, Scott Smith (2006)
88. High Fidelity, Nick Hornby (1995)
89. Close Range, Annie Proulx (1999)
90. Comfort Me With Apples, Ruth Reichl (2001)
91. Random Family, Adrian Nicole LeBlanc (2003)
92. Presumed Innocent, Scott Turow (1987)
93. A Thousand Acres, Jane Smiley (1991)
94. Fast Food Nation, Eric Schlosser (2001)
95. Kaaterskill Falls, Allegra Goodman (1998)
96. The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown (2003)
97. Jesus’ Son, Denis Johnson (1992)
98. The Predators' Ball, Connie Bruck (1988)
99. Practical Magic, Alice Hoffman (1995)
100. America (the Book), Jon Stewart/Daily Show (2004)
There's a lot of good books to choose from for this challenge, but I think I have finally narrowed my list to the following six:
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Holes by Louis Sachar
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson
This will be a great challenge and I am definitely looking forward to it!
Here is EW's list (bolded books being the ones I have already read):
1. The Road , Cormac McCarthy (2006)
2. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, J.K. Rowling (2000)
3. Beloved, Toni Morrison (1987)
4. The Liars' Club, Mary Karr (1995)
5. American Pastoral, Philip Roth (1997)
6. Mystic River, Dennis Lehane (2001)
7. Maus, Art Spiegelman (1986/1991)
8. Selected Stories, Alice Munro (1996)
9. Cold Mountain, Charles Frazier (1997)
10. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, Haruki Murakami (1997)
11. Into Thin Air, Jon Krakauer (1997)
12. Blindness, José Saramago (1998)
13. Watchmen, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons (1986-87)
14. Black Water, Joyce Carol Oates (1992)
15. A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, Dave Eggers (2000)
16. The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood (1986)
17. Love in the Time of Cholera, Gabriel García Márquez (1988)
18. Rabbit at Rest, John Updike (1990)
19. On Beauty, Zadie Smith (2005)
20. Bridget Jones's Diary, Helen Fielding (1998)
21. On Writing, Stephen King (2000)
22. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, Junot Díaz (2007)
23. The Ghost Road, Pat Barker (1996)
24. Lonesome Dove, Larry McMurtry (1985)
25. The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan (1989)
26. Neuromancer, William Gibson (1984)
27. Possession, A.S. Byatt (1990)
28. Naked, David Sedaris (1997)
29. Bel Canto, Anne Patchett (2001)
30. Case Histories, Kate Atkinson (2004)
31. The Things They Carried, Tim O'Brien (1990)
32. Parting the Waters, Taylor Branch (1988)
33. The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion (2005)
34. The Lovely Bones, Alice Sebold (2002)
35. The Line of Beauty, Alan Hollinghurst (2004)
36. Angela's Ashes, Frank McCourt (1996)
37. Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi (2003)
38. Birds of America, Lorrie Moore (1998)
39. Interpreter of Maladies, Jhumpa Lahiri (2000)
40. His Dark Materials, Philip Pullman (1995-2000)
41. The House on Mango Street, Sandra Cisneros (1984)
42. LaBrava, Elmore Leonard (1983)
43. Borrowed Time, Paul Monette (1988)
44. Praying for Sheetrock, Melissa Fay Greene (1991)
45. Eva Luna, Isabel Allende (1988)
46. Sandman, Neil Gaiman (1988-1996)
47. World's Fair, E.L. Doctorow (1985)
48. The Poisonwood Bible, Barbara Kingsolver (1998)
49. Clockers, Richard Price (1992)
50. The Corrections, Jonathan Franzen (2001)
51. The Journalist and the Murderer, Janet Malcom (1990)
52. Waiting to Exhale, Terry McMillan (1992)
53. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, Michael Chabon (2000)
54. Jimmy Corrigan, Chris Ware (2000)
55. The Glass Castle, Jeannette Walls (2006)
56. The Night Manager, John le Carré (1993)
57. The Bonfire of the Vanities, Tom Wolfe (1987)
58. Drop City, TC Boyle (2003)
59. Krik? Krak! Edwidge Danticat (1995)
60. Nickel & Dimed, Barbara Ehrenreich (2001)
61. Money, Martin Amis (1985)
62. Last Train To Memphis, Peter Guralnick (1994)
63. Pastoralia, George Saunders (2000)
64. Underworld, Don DeLillo (1997)
65. The Giver, Lois Lowry (1993)
66. A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again, David Foster Wallace (1997)
67. The Kite Runner, Khaled Hosseini (2003)
68. Fun Home, Alison Bechdel (2006)
69. Secret History, Donna Tartt (1992)
70. Cloud Atlas, David Mitchell (2004)
71. The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, Ann Fadiman (1997)
72. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon (2003)
73. A Prayer for Owen Meany, John Irving (1989)
74. Friday Night Lights, H.G. Bissinger (1990)
75. Cathedral, Raymond Carver (1983)
76. A Sight for Sore Eyes, Ruth Rendell (1998)
77. The Remains of the Day, Kazuo Ishiguro (1989)
78. Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert (2006)
79. The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell (2000)
80. Bright Lights, Big City, Jay McInerney (1984)
81. Backlash, Susan Faludi (1991)
82. Atonement, Ian McEwan (2002)
83. The Stone Diaries, Carol Shields (1994)
84. Holes, Louis Sachar (1998)
85. Gilead, Marilynne Robinson (2004)
86. And the Band Played On, Randy Shilts (1987)
87. The Ruins, Scott Smith (2006)
88. High Fidelity, Nick Hornby (1995)
89. Close Range, Annie Proulx (1999)
90. Comfort Me With Apples, Ruth Reichl (2001)
91. Random Family, Adrian Nicole LeBlanc (2003)
92. Presumed Innocent, Scott Turow (1987)
93. A Thousand Acres, Jane Smiley (1991)
94. Fast Food Nation, Eric Schlosser (2001)
95. Kaaterskill Falls, Allegra Goodman (1998)
96. The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown (2003)
97. Jesus’ Son, Denis Johnson (1992)
98. The Predators' Ball, Connie Bruck (1988)
99. Practical Magic, Alice Hoffman (1995)
100. America (the Book), Jon Stewart/Daily Show (2004)
There's a lot of good books to choose from for this challenge, but I think I have finally narrowed my list to the following six:
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Holes by Louis Sachar
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson
This will be a great challenge and I am definitely looking forward to it!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
The Stone Angel
Things never look the same from the outside as they do from the inside. (p.249)
It's refreshing to read a book that seems timeless. By this, I mean that as you read it you feel like the story could be happening here and now even though it is actually an older book. This is the experience I just had with the book The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence. When I checked the copyright date I found that the book was originally published in 1964, and this surprised me because it felt like I was reading a modern book. I think this realization made it even more enjoyable.
Hagar Shipley is 90 years old. She is struggling physically and mentally because of her age. She lives with her son Marvin and his wife Doris. They are getting up there in years as well and are finding it increasingly more difficult to care for Hagar. They would like to place her in a nursing home where she would receive better care, but Hagar will not hear of it and fights the idea. After receiving some x-rays following a doctor's visit, it is discovered that Hagar is terminally ill. This will eventually make the final decision concerning her future care.
Meanwhile, Hagar takes the reader back in time by reminiscing about her childhood, marriage, and two sons. She grew up in the small prairie town of Manawaka (Canada) and lived there for several years until she made a decision that changed her life. She is a very proud woman who has made mistakes along her way in life. Her relationships with her father, husband, and two sons are remembered as both good and bad while she now reconciles them through her memories. The story and memories seem simple enough, but the story is deeper and the memories give proof to who she is now at age ninety, again making this a timeless story.
Hard to imagine a world and I not in it. Will everything stop when I do? Stupid old baggage, who do you think you are? Hagar. There's no one like me in this world. (p.250)
"She's got an amazing constitution, your mother. One of those hearts that just keeps on working, whatever else is gone."
A pause, and then Marvin replies.
"She's a holy terror," he says.
Listening, I feel like it is more than I could now reasonably have expected out of life, for he has spoken with such anger and such tenderness. (pp. 304-305)
I loved The Stone Angel. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters, the use of memories, and the descriptive writing. It is a classic story of aging, memories, and life's challenges. It appears a simple story on the surface but actually has several layers that are created by Hagar's choices and the people she meets along the way. Mini-challenge #11 is to read a book written by a "new-to-you" author and review it. I found this book while reading Kate's Book Blog earlier this spring. And I am definitely glad I took her recommendation to read the book!
It's refreshing to read a book that seems timeless. By this, I mean that as you read it you feel like the story could be happening here and now even though it is actually an older book. This is the experience I just had with the book The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence. When I checked the copyright date I found that the book was originally published in 1964, and this surprised me because it felt like I was reading a modern book. I think this realization made it even more enjoyable.
Hagar Shipley is 90 years old. She is struggling physically and mentally because of her age. She lives with her son Marvin and his wife Doris. They are getting up there in years as well and are finding it increasingly more difficult to care for Hagar. They would like to place her in a nursing home where she would receive better care, but Hagar will not hear of it and fights the idea. After receiving some x-rays following a doctor's visit, it is discovered that Hagar is terminally ill. This will eventually make the final decision concerning her future care.
Meanwhile, Hagar takes the reader back in time by reminiscing about her childhood, marriage, and two sons. She grew up in the small prairie town of Manawaka (Canada) and lived there for several years until she made a decision that changed her life. She is a very proud woman who has made mistakes along her way in life. Her relationships with her father, husband, and two sons are remembered as both good and bad while she now reconciles them through her memories. The story and memories seem simple enough, but the story is deeper and the memories give proof to who she is now at age ninety, again making this a timeless story.
Hard to imagine a world and I not in it. Will everything stop when I do? Stupid old baggage, who do you think you are? Hagar. There's no one like me in this world. (p.250)
"She's got an amazing constitution, your mother. One of those hearts that just keeps on working, whatever else is gone."
A pause, and then Marvin replies.
"She's a holy terror," he says.
Listening, I feel like it is more than I could now reasonably have expected out of life, for he has spoken with such anger and such tenderness. (pp. 304-305)
I loved The Stone Angel. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters, the use of memories, and the descriptive writing. It is a classic story of aging, memories, and life's challenges. It appears a simple story on the surface but actually has several layers that are created by Hagar's choices and the people she meets along the way. Mini-challenge #11 is to read a book written by a "new-to-you" author and review it. I found this book while reading Kate's Book Blog earlier this spring. And I am definitely glad I took her recommendation to read the book!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
It's Tuesday, where are you?
I am currently in Canada with Hagar. Today she is in Point Shadow and remembering her earlier days in Manawaka.
These are new places for me as I have not read many Canadian authors or settings in the past. I think I may need to expand my boundaries in the future.
CR: The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence
(Where Are You? is hosted by raidergirl3 every Tuesday.)
These are new places for me as I have not read many Canadian authors or settings in the past. I think I may need to expand my boundaries in the future.
CR: The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence
(Where Are You? is hosted by raidergirl3 every Tuesday.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)