cknightkc
Johnson County Library
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Life in A JarLife in A Jar, BookThe Irena Sendler Project : A Novel
by Mayer, H. JackBook - 2011Book, 2011
cknightkc's rating:
Added May 01, 2017
cknightkc's rating:
Added Apr 26, 2017
Comment:
In SMALL GREAT THINGS author Jodi Picoult tackles the subject of racism. This is an absorbing page-turner with articulate dialogue and three-dimensional, relatable characters. The title is inspired by a speech by Martin Luther King, Jr., “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” Despite its brilliance, the book is not without flaws, namely a tone that at times comes off as earnest and preachy and a plot twist that’s a bit too pat and melodramatic. However, if the story causes readers to examine their own preconceptions, Picoult has achieved her goal, and I think most would agree that’s a great thing.In SMALL GREAT THINGS author Jodi Picoult tackles the subject of racism. This is an absorbing page-turner with articulate dialogue and three-dimensional, relatable characters. The title is inspired by a speech by Martin Luther King, Jr., “If I…
Quotations
- “Freedom is the fragile neck of a daffodil, after the longest of winters.” - p. 449
- “The only time people who look like us are making history, it’s a footnote.” - p. 119
- “The best lies are the ones that are wrapped around a core of truth.” - p. 113
cknightkc's rating:
Added Apr 24, 2017
Comment:
What a disappointment! Instead of focusing on the compelling real-life story of Jan and Antonina Zabinski and their heroic efforts to rescue Warsaw Ghetto Jews during WWII, the plot line of THE ZOOKEEPER’S WIFE meandered and took far too many detours to keep this reader engaged. Author Diane Ackerman obviously did her research, but her overly descriptive, flowery (purple) prose and penchant for including an excessive amount of irrelevant detail were distracting and interfered with the narrative flow. As a result, the Zabinskis and their Guests came off as flat and somewhat one-dimensional while the zoo animals and family pets were depicted with more personality. I managed to finish the book, but it frequently was a slog. The only reason I’m giving THE ZOOKEEPER’S WIFE 2.5 stars instead of 2 is because the Zabinskis’ story is so worthy of remembering, but they certainly deserved much better than this!What a disappointment! Instead of focusing on the compelling real-life story of Jan and Antonina Zabinski and their heroic efforts to rescue Warsaw Ghetto Jews during WWII, the plot line of THE ZOOKEEPER’S WIFE meandered and took far too many…
Quotations
- “Dozens of statues and monuments grace Warsaw's streets, because Poland is a country half submerged in its heavily invaded past, fed by progress, but always partly mourning.” - p. 322
In This Grave HourIn This Grave Hour, BookA Maisie Dobbs Novel
by Winspear, JacquelineBook - 2017Book, 2017
cknightkc's rating:
Added Apr 11, 2017
Comment:
Every year I eagerly await the next installment in the Maisie Dobbs series, and IN THIS GRAVE HOUR does not disappoint. It’s particularly fitting that the last 6 books in this series have been published in March, which is International Women’s History Month. Author Jacqueline Winspear’s Maisie is a complex feminist heroine and one of the most original characters in fiction today. IN THIS GRAVE HOUR begins in 1939 and Great Britain has just declared war on Germany. The title itself is taken from a speech by King George VI (see Quotes). As England prepares for war, psychologist and investigator Maisie must solve some grisly murders as well as identify and find the home of a young evacuee from London. Maisie once again demonstrates her wisdom, common sense, and compassion while taking on these challenges. Much of the plot involves the issue of war refugees which I find especially relevant for today’s world. Besides Maisie, I have come to care about the richly drawn secondary characters introduced in previous books and many of them return in this novel while 1 new endearing addition to the cast will no doubt influence the course of Maisie’s life. Alas, I’ll have to wait another 12 months to find out. To fully appreciate how Maisie, her family, and acquaintances have evolved over time, I highly recommend this series be read in order from the beginning.Every year I eagerly await the next installment in the Maisie Dobbs series, and IN THIS GRAVE HOUR does not disappoint. It’s particularly fitting that the last 6 books in this series have been published in March, which is International Women’s…
Quotations
- “In this grave hour, perhaps the most fateful in our history… for the second time in the lives of most of us, we are at war.” - King George VI, September 3rd, 1939 The Epigraph
- “Coincidence is a messenger sent by Truth.” - p. 87
Mrs. Lincoln's DressmakerMrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker, BookA Novel
by Chiaverini, JenniferBook - 2013Book, 2013
cknightkc's rating:
Added Apr 04, 2017
Comment:
For lovers of historic fiction, be forewarned, MRS. LINCOLN’S DRESSMAKER is heavy on the history and much lighter on the fiction. Its subject matter (the friendship between Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley, seamstress and former slave, and her patron, Mary Todd Lincoln) is intriguing and has such potential, unfortunately the story suffers in the execution. The telling by author Jennifer Chiaverini is frequently dry and flat with so much listing of Civil War events and leaders I felt I was reading a textbook. It seemed Ms. Chiaverini attempted to emulate the time period’s manner of speaking in her writing and word choice but often it came off as awkward. What I missed was a deep connection to the characters. I was already familiar with many of the details of the Lincoln White House years, but it was interesting to learn what happened to these two women following the President’s assassination, however this isn’t conveyed until the final third of the book and the saga of selling Mrs. Lincoln’s wardrobe goes on way too long. While not awful, MRS. LINCOLN’S DRESSMAKER is certainly underwhelming, and I can’t help but think it would’ve made for a more powerful and engaging book in the hands of a different author.For lovers of historic fiction, be forewarned, MRS. LINCOLN’S DRESSMAKER is heavy on the history and much lighter on the fiction. Its subject matter (the friendship between Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley, seamstress and former slave, and her patron, Mary…
The Last GoodnightThe Last Goodnight, BookA World War II Story of Espionage, Adventure, and Betrayal
by Blum, HowardBook - 2016Book, 2016
cknightkc's rating:
Added Mar 27, 2017
Comment:
THE LAST GOODNIGHT provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of espionage during WWII. It covers the life and career of the until now little-known socialite, femme fatale, and spy, Betty Pack. Author Howard Blum takes an unsympathetic look at this complex, morally bankrupt heroine while documenting her missions/exploits, and ultimately recognizing her invaluable contributions toward the Allied victory. A little slow at the beginning and a little too long, this well-researched work of non-fiction reads like a suspense novel with just enough “sensationalism” to keep one engaged. Can a feature film be far behind?THE LAST GOODNIGHT provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of espionage during WWII. It covers the life and career of the until now little-known socialite, femme fatale, and spy, Betty Pack. Author Howard Blum takes an unsympathetic look at…
cknightkc's rating:
Added Mar 20, 2017
Comment:
For lovers of books, book clubs, and family drama, THE BOOK THAT MATTERS MOST was a pleasant enough read if one overlooked its shortcomings, namely a contrived plot, some underdeveloped/frustrating characters, and a sudden ending that relied too heavily on coincidence. The theme of this novel, people’s personal connections to literature, was intriguing, and author Ann Hood’s prose was easy to follow. I came away with a whole new appreciation for the “classics” as well as some titles to add to my “for later shelf”. Although THE BOOK THAT MATTERS MOST didn’t quite live up to my expectations, I could think of worse ways to spend one’s time.For lovers of books, book clubs, and family drama, THE BOOK THAT MATTERS MOST was a pleasant enough read if one overlooked its shortcomings, namely a contrived plot, some underdeveloped/frustrating characters, and a sudden ending that relied too…
Quotations
- “When you read a book, and who you are when you read it, makes it matter or not.”
cknightkc's rating:
Added Mar 15, 2017
Comment:
In SHIP OF BRIDES author Jojo Moyes offers a fascinating glimpse into a little-known period of history. The year is 1946, and this fictional story follows 4 Australian war brides traveling aboard a British aircraft carrier to reunite with the husbands they married, but hardly spent time with, during WWII. Throughout the 6-week journey from Australia to England the narrative also provides insights into several British servicemen ending their tour of duty. The plot has it all - secrets, intrigue, joy, friendship, romance, despair, and loss - and by the end, all lives have changed. Once again, Jojo Moyes creates well-balanced, believable characters. Her writing appears well-researched, especially regarding life aboard ship and the social mores of the time. My only criticism is that it took me longer than usual to get into the story, but the ending was worth it and several characters stayed with me long after I turned the last page.In SHIP OF BRIDES author Jojo Moyes offers a fascinating glimpse into a little-known period of history. The year is 1946, and this fictional story follows 4 Australian war brides traveling aboard a British aircraft carrier to reunite with the…
Quotations
- “the only people who still have all the answers are those who have never been faced with the questions”
cknightkc's rating:
Added Mar 08, 2017
Comment:
It’s been a couple days since I finished MY BRILLIANT FRIEND, and honestly I felt I had to allow myself some time for reflection before commenting. Keeping in mind the many fans of author Elena Ferrante and the glowing reviews this novel has received, I wondered: Were my initial reactions to this book faulty? Did I miss something? Sadly, after careful consideration, I’ve come to the conclusions: No, they weren’t and no, I didn’t. MY BRILLIANT FRIEND is neither a quick nor easy read so I would not advise starting it unless you have plenty of time and patience.It’s been a couple days since I finished MY BRILLIANT FRIEND, and honestly I felt I had to allow myself some time for reflection before commenting. Keeping in mind the many fans of author Elena Ferrante and the glowing reviews this novel has…
Quotations
- “Her quickness of mind was like a hiss, a dart, a lethal bite.” - p. 48
cknightkc's rating:
Added Feb 06, 2017
Comment:
NINE WOMEN, ONE DRESS is the “perfect fit” for a holiday or weekend read. Short chapters make it easy to put down and pick back up. I must admit for me it was a little slow at first but by chapter 3, I was hooked. A smart, diverse, and engaging ensemble cast of characters, male and female, youthful and mature, tell their own alternating storylines all of which revolve around the season’s “must have” little black dress. It is as much a light romance novel as it is a love letter to it’s major setting, New York City and its iconic sites like Bloomingdales, Grand Central Station, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park, to name a few. Author Jane L. Rosen’s background in film and television is quite evident in her narrative flow and craft. NINE WOMEN, ONE DRESS is a delightful modern-day adult fairy tale with multiple happy endings. “Chick Lit” at its best!NINE WOMEN, ONE DRESS is the “perfect fit” for a holiday or weekend read. Short chapters make it easy to put down and pick back up. I must admit for me it was a little slow at first but by chapter 3, I was hooked. A smart, diverse, and engaging…
Quotations
- "What is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it." -Yves Saint Laurent The Epigraph
cknightkc's rating:
Added Jan 23, 2017
Comment:
Deservedly on a par with Tatiana de Rosnay’s SARAH’S KEY and Kristen Hannah’s THE NIGHTINGALE is Martha Hall Kelly’s LILAC GIRLS, historic fiction inspired by real people and events from the WWII era. Told from differing perspectives and in alternating chapters, the story revolves around 3 women: a New York socialite, a Polish teenager, and a German doctor. Author Kelly has done impeccable research in writing this, her debut novel. Her descriptions of Ravensbruck, the infamous female concentration camp, and what went on there are disturbing and may be difficult for some readers. My only criticisms are the frequent references to NYC high society, fashion and celebrity seem a bit much, likewise the fictional romance between the socialite and a French actor is not essential to the plot. These faults are minor though and do not diminish the overall powerful themes of “sisterhood”, family, love, courage, endurance, and resilience presented in this thoughtful work. Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the conclusion of LILAC GIRLS for further information on it’s inspiration, it’s characters, and Martha Hall Kelly’s journey in writing the book.Deservedly on a par with Tatiana de Rosnay’s SARAH’S KEY and Kristen Hannah’s THE NIGHTINGALE is Martha Hall Kelly’s LILAC GIRLS, historic fiction inspired by real people and events from the WWII era. Told from differing perspectives and in…
Quotations
- “But it’s fitting in a way - Father loved the fact that a lilac only blossoms after a harsh winter.” - p. 440
cknightkc's rating:
Added Jan 17, 2017
Comment:
Agatha Christie meets GIRL ON THE TRAIN. Author Ruth Ware’s new mystery/thriller, THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 has all the essential ingredients: an atmospheric setting - a boutique luxury cruise liner in the middle of the North Sea; a colorful closed cast of characters; a murder; a complication - with the internet/wifi down, those on the ship are cut off from the rest of the world; and an unreliable protagonist. With plenty of clues sprinkled throughout the plot, the main character Lo Blacklock and the reader must discern between truth and deception. Who among the passengers and crew can be trusted and who had opportunity to commit the crime? Are tricks being played on us? As paranoia sets in, the lavish, yet eerily claustrophobic setting only enhances the suspense. Ruth Ware has done it once again with another stay-up-all-night page-turner!Agatha Christie meets GIRL ON THE TRAIN. Author Ruth Ware’s new mystery/thriller, THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 has all the essential ingredients: an atmospheric setting - a boutique luxury cruise liner in the middle of the North Sea; a colorful closed cast…
Quotations
- "I love ports. I love the smell of tar and sea air, and the scream of the gulls. Maybe it's years of taking the ferry to France for summer holidays, but a harbor gives me a feeling of freedom in a way that an airport never does. Airports say work and security checks and delays. Ports say... I don't know. Something completely different. Escape, maybe.” - p. 34"I love ports. I love the smell of tar and sea air, and the scream of the gulls. Maybe it's years of taking the ferry to France for summer holidays, but a harbor gives me a feeling of freedom in a way that an airport never does. Airports say work…
cknightkc's rating:
Added Jan 10, 2017
Comment:
In HOMEGOING during a chapter set in the mid-20th century, Yaa, a teacher in Ghana writes “History is Storytelling” on the board in his classroom. This is the theme of author Yaa Gyasi’s monumental work, an ambitious family saga, which has been hailed in some circles as this generation’s ROOTS. Gyasi takes the African oral history tradition to new levels by giving voice to those suppressed, not those with power (see Quotes) beginning with 2 half sisters separated at birth, and follows their descendants across 7 generations (14 characters), 2 continents, and 200+ years. That she does so, and so effectively and eloquently in an economical 300 pages, is stunning! HOMEGOING isn't an easy read emotionally, and can be brutal in its depictions of what happens to its characters, BUT IT IS a powerful and essential read with the potential to open minds and spark further discussion.In HOMEGOING during a chapter set in the mid-20th century, Yaa, a teacher in Ghana writes “History is Storytelling” on the board in his classroom. This is the theme of author Yaa Gyasi’s monumental work, an ambitious family saga, which has been…
Quotations
- "Weakness is treating someone as though they belong to you. Strength is knowing that everyone belongs to themselves." - page 38
- “History is Storytelling… This is the problem of history. We cannot know that which we were not there to see and hear and experience for ourselves. We must rely upon the words of others. Those who were there in the olden days, they told stories to the children so that the children would know, so that the children could tell stories to their children. And so on, and so on. But now we come upon the problem of conflicting stories… Whose story do we believe? We believe the one who has the power. He is the one who gets to write the story. So when you study history, you must always ask yourself, Whose story am I missing? Whose voice was suppressed so that this voice could come forth? Once you have figured that out, you must find that story too. From there, you begin to get a clearer, yet still imperfect, picture.” - pages 225 & 226“History is Storytelling… This is the problem of history. We cannot know that which we were not there to see and hear and experience for ourselves. We must rely upon the words of others. Those who were there in the olden days, they told stories to…
cknightkc's rating:
Added Jan 05, 2017
Comment:
If you’re a fan of the Golden Age of Hollywood, you may enjoy STARS OVER SUNSET BOULEVARD which begins during the filming of “Gone With the Wind”. I liked the behind-the-scenes detail about the making and release of GWTW that author Susan Meissner incidentally throws into the plot - wish there had been more. The story is about friendship, secrets, choices, their consequences, and ultimately, forgiveness. It follows two women over the span of 25 years. Meissner skillfully presents us with attractive characters who are well-rounded, “warts” and all. I did find one of the principals to be particularly annoying, which probably affected the novel’s “likability” for me. Also, at times the plot dragged and was heavy on the drama, taking on the qualities of a soap opera. Still, this was a mildly entertaining read, appropriate for a vacation or weekend, but one easily forgotten once finished.If you’re a fan of the Golden Age of Hollywood, you may enjoy STARS OVER SUNSET BOULEVARD which begins during the filming of “Gone With the Wind”. I liked the behind-the-scenes detail about the making and release of GWTW that author Susan Meissner…
The Boys of '36The Boys of '36, DVD
DVD - 2016DVD, 2016
cknightkc's rating:
Added Jan 04, 2017
Comment:
THE BOYS OF '36 is the perfect complement to Daniel James Brown's book, THE BOYS IN THE BOAT. The use of vintage film footage and commentary by surviving family of the winning team make this remarkable story come to life. Highly recommended, but read the novel first.THE BOYS OF '36 is the perfect complement to Daniel James Brown's book, THE BOYS IN THE BOAT. The use of vintage film footage and commentary by surviving family of the winning team make this remarkable story come to life. Highly recommended, but…
The Boys in the BoatThe Boys in the Boat, BookNine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Olympics
by Brown, Daniel JamesBook - 2013Book, 2013
cknightkc's rating:
Added Jan 02, 2017
Comment:
THE BOYS IN THE BOAT is the inspiring true account of the 1936 US Olympic rowing team from the University of Washington who overcame adversity and achieved the improbable through perseverance, sacrifice, and teamwork. As the story progresses, while the group as a whole finds its “swing”, so do it’s individual members find themselves, in particular Joe Rantz, the central character of the story. Having known nothing about crew (competitive rowing) before reading this, I gained insight and appreciation for what it takes to excel in this sport. Set during the dark days of America’s Great Depression and Germany’s rise of Nazi power, THE BOYS IN THE BOAT is the perfect blend of human interest, history, and sport. What a terrific book! I hope one day it’ll be translated to the big screen.THE BOYS IN THE BOAT is the inspiring true account of the 1936 US Olympic rowing team from the University of Washington who overcame adversity and achieved the improbable through perseverance, sacrifice, and teamwork. As the story progresses, while…
Quotations
- "To defeat an adversary who was your equal, maybe even your superior, it wasn't necessarily enough just to give your all from start to finish. You had to master your opponent mentally. When the critical moment in a close race was upon you, you had to know something he did not - that down in your core you still had something in reserve, something you had not yet shown, something that once revealed would make him doubt himself, make him falter just when it counted the most. Like so much in life, crew was partly about confidence, partly about knowing your heart." - page 106"To defeat an adversary who was your equal, maybe even your superior, it wasn't necessarily enough just to give your all from start to finish. You had to master your opponent mentally. When the critical moment in a close race was upon you, you had…
- “It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down,” he told his daughter, Marilynn. “What matters is how many times you get up.” - page 233
cknightkc's rating:
Added Dec 23, 2016
Comment:
I liken Fannie Flagg’s books to comfort food - enjoyable, sweet, but not too filling. Once again we return to Flagg’s idealized Elmwood Springs, Missouri in THE WHOLE TOWN’S TALKING with many of the same characters from her earlier novels, but this time the focus is on the town as the author traces its history and people from the 1880’s to 2021. As usual Flagg populates her tale with some quirky, mostly likable individuals (family trees would’ve been helpful to keep track of them all), sprinkles it with little intrigues and dashes of humor while conveying the importance of personal relationships in all phases of life. Surprisingly, there is little depth to the characters and story, most likely because of the long time span covered and Flagg’s choice to write largely in a 3rd person expository manner with little interaction between characters. In fact after the first third of the book, most of the dialogue is between and among the “residents” of Still Meadows Cemetery as they bring the reader and others up to speed with their comments about what’s been happening in the town - an interesting technique, but one I grew a little weary of with repeated use. My biggest issue is with the epilogue, but won’t say more to avoid spoilers. In spite of these criticisms, I found THE WHOLE TOWN’S TALKING to be an easy, pleasant read - perfect for a weekend or snow day - just prepare yourself to suspend reality for a time as you enjoy the “comforts” this book has to offer, including Elner Shimfissle’s buttermilk bisquits and fig preserves.I liken Fannie Flagg’s books to comfort food - enjoyable, sweet, but not too filling. Once again we return to Flagg’s idealized Elmwood Springs, Missouri in THE WHOLE TOWN’S TALKING with many of the same characters from her earlier novels, but this…
Quotations
- "She didn't know it, but she had changed so many lives just by being there year after year, and by saying the right things at the exact right time." - page 227
Video: Fannie Flagg: A Southern Storyteller
Fannie Flagg discusses her Southern background, inspiration, and latest and reportedly last novel, THE WHOLE TOWN'S TALKING.
cknightkc's rating:
Added Dec 19, 2016
Comment:
Gibson Vaughn, the flawed but “oh so likeable” hero of THE SHORT DROP, returns in author Matthew FitzSimmon’s newest thriller, POISONFEATHER. Whereas the first book was more a character driven suspense story in which the legendary hacker and former Marine took center stage, POISONFEATHER seems more an action thriller with Gibson relegated to the sidelines at times, and that wasn’t as appealing to me. With a whole new set of characters (almost too many) and a new storyline, this latest addition to the series could almost be read as a standalone, but there are enough references to people and events from the previous novel, that reading THE SHORT DROP first is recommended. While for me POISONFEATHER was not quite on par with its predecessor, it’s still a page-turner and is yet another example of author FitzSimmons' talent for ratcheting up the suspense with a topical, complex plot, this time full of greed, treachery, and violence including a cliffhanger ending that all but guarantees Gibson Vaughn will be back for a third installment.Gibson Vaughn, the flawed but “oh so likeable” hero of THE SHORT DROP, returns in author Matthew FitzSimmon’s newest thriller, POISONFEATHER. Whereas the first book was more a character driven suspense story in which the legendary hacker and former…
The Underground RailroadThe Underground Railroad, BookA Novel
by Whitehead, ColsonBook - 2016Book, 2016
cknightkc's rating:
Added Dec 08, 2016
Comment:
I must admit having finished it, I had mixed feelings about THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. First, and what I admired most was author Colson Whitehead’s brave decision to take an unflinching look at the horrors of slavery and racism and how they permeated antebellum society. This is all the more relevant as recent elections, not just in the US but across the globe, have proven we’re experiencing the repercussions of this immoral institution and the persistence of this vile belief even in today’s world. I also liked Whitehead’s imaginative and inventive depiction of the underground railroad as an actual physical railroad running below the ground. The length of the book felt just about right. Scenes such as when the main character, Cora is working in the South Carolina museum, traveling along the Freedom Trail, and observing daily life outside the North Carolina attic where she hides, were so effectively written - chilling and disturbing - that they reminded me of horror films and the old Twilight Zone tv series. Naming the major chapters after states where the heroine happens to be as she journeys north was inspired and helped move the plot forward, however, the story seemed to “derail” or take unwelcome detours for me in alternate chapters which were devoted to providing background on supporting cast members. My biggest struggle with THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD was with the characterization or lack there of. I never really felt connected to Cora, even finding her unlikable some of the time. Similarly other major and minor characters didn’t seem “fleshed out”, quickly passing in and out of the storyline, but upon further thought, perhaps this is part of Whitehead’s genius in that his treatment of the characters merely reflects the dismal reality of the time period when slaves were seen only as property, not as fellow humans, and were so frequently bought and sold throughout their lives that it made it nearly impossible for them to rely on anything permanent (in terms of personal connections or sense of “home”). Despite my criticisms, I found THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD to be a powerful work that only improved after careful consideration. At so many levels it’s worth rereading and discussing. Apologies for this lengthy critique, however like all great books should, THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD challenged this reader to “think”.I must admit having finished it, I had mixed feelings about THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. First, and what I admired most was author Colson Whitehead’s brave decision to take an unflinching look at the horrors of slavery and racism and how they permeated…
Quotations
- "Slavery is a sin when whites were put to the yoke, but not the African. All men are created equal, unless we decide you are not a man." - page 182
- "Yet when his classmates put their blades to a colored cadaver, they did more for the cause of colored advancement than the most high-minded abolitionist. In death the negro became a human being. Only then was he the white man's equal." - page 139
Murder on the Ballarat TrainMurder on the Ballarat Train, BookA Phryne Fisher Mystery
by Greenwood, KerryBook - 2006Book, 2006
cknightkc's rating:
Added Dec 04, 2016
Comment:
MURDER ON THE BALLARAT TRAIN is another quick, entertaining period mystery (third in the series) featuring the "unflappable" flapper and sleuth, Phryne Fisher, a woman definitely ahead of her time. Set in one of my favorite countries, Australia, this is the kind of book I like to sandwich between longer, “weightier” reads. Keep handy a dictionary of local slang/terms to get the most out of this series - go to phrynefisher.com for a helpful glossary.MURDER ON THE BALLARAT TRAIN is another quick, entertaining period mystery (third in the series) featuring the "unflappable" flapper and sleuth, Phryne Fisher, a woman definitely ahead of her time. Set in one of my favorite countries, Australia,…
And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and LongerAnd Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer, BookA Novella
by Backman, FredrikBook - 2016Book, 2016
cknightkc's rating:
Added Dec 01, 2016
Comment:
Good things come in small packages. AND EVERY MORNING THE WAY HOME GETS LONGER AND LONGER is a poignant novella about life, family, memories, and letting go as told by Fredrik Backman with his characteristic insight into the human spirit. Anyone touched by Alzheimer’s will relate to its simple message - tissues recommended.Good things come in small packages. AND EVERY MORNING THE WAY HOME GETS LONGER AND LONGER is a poignant novella about life, family, memories, and letting go as told by Fredrik Backman with his characteristic insight into the human spirit. Anyone…
Quotations
- Isn't that the best of all life's ages, an old man thinks as he looks at his grandchild. When a boy is just big enough to know how the world works but still young enough to refuse to accept it. - page 1
cknightkc's rating:
Added Nov 30, 2016
Comment:
I was totally mesmerized by the masterfully crafted CHURCH OF MARVELS - hard to believe this is a debut novel! It is unique and totally different from the books I usually read. There are 4 main characters, all damaged and living on the margins of turn-of-the-century society, but each seeking family, belonging, and acceptance in his or her own way. Suspense slowly builds as 3 distinct storylines are followed until by means of a series of cleverly plotted twists and turns, secrets are revealed, and the lives of these 4 seemingly disparate individuals converge. Of interest too are the interconnections between and among the various supporting players. Very atmospheric and rich in detail (sensitive readers beware!), their tales are told against the background of 1895 New York City with the dark, gritty underbellies of Coney Island and Manhattan on full display. To be best enjoyed, I recommend reading this book in long sittings (if time permits) in order to keep track of the various and intricate story threads. With CHURCH OF MARVELS author Leslie Parry has written a very engaging mystery and created some of the most memorable characters I’ve ever encountered in fiction. I look forward to reading more by Ms. Parry.I was totally mesmerized by the masterfully crafted CHURCH OF MARVELS - hard to believe this is a debut novel! It is unique and totally different from the books I usually read. There are 4 main characters, all damaged and living on the margins of…
Quotations
- There were streets named Mulberry and Orchard and Cherry, streets bright and tart, streets with a color and a taste. But Ludlow sounded heavy and numb, like a mouth with a bitten tongue. - page 59
cknightkc's rating:
Added Nov 22, 2016
Comment:
For me, the strength of FAITHFUL is the characterization including the very flawed but fully realized central figure of the story, Shelby (who initially may be very off-putting for some readers), as well as the well-rounded supporting cast of people and animals (yes, animals) she encounters on her episodic journey to redemption and self-forgiveness. The plot really drew me in. I found it to be a relatively easy read, almost like the author intended this for Young Adults, despite the heavy themes explored in the story: loss, depression, suicide, mental illness, addiction, homelessness, betrayal, infidelity, but ultimately love and moving on. I especially liked the poignant mother-daughter relationship between Sue and Shelby. While I found the mystery of the postcards and who sent them a little contrived, overall this story stayed with me long after I finished the final page. This is my second Alice Hoffman novel, having read THE MARRIAGE OF OPPOSITES last year, and it definitely won’t be my last.For me, the strength of FAITHFUL is the characterization including the very flawed but fully realized central figure of the story, Shelby (who initially may be very off-putting for some readers), as well as the well-rounded supporting cast of people…
Paris for One and Other StoriesParis for One and Other Stories, Book
by Moyes, JojoBook - 2016Book, 2016
cknightkc's rating:
Added Nov 19, 2016
Comment:
PARIS FOR ONE & OTHER STORIES represents a departure for best-selling author Jojo Moyes. It consists of 1 novella which lasts slightly more than half of the novel and 8 short stories, averaging 13-14 pages each. Every tale involves a woman at a pivotal moment in her life. Some are better than others, and while the brevity of each selection precludes fuller character development (a Jojo Moyes trademark), most are entertaining with just enough charm and plot twists to keep your interest. Moyes has a real talent of drawing the reader into a story, and for me this book is no exception. If you’re looking for a quick, light read - just right for a lazy weekend or airplane trip, PARIS FOR ONE & OTHER STORIES may be for you. Also if you’re a Jojo Moyes fan like me, this may tide you over until her next full-length blockbuster is published.PARIS FOR ONE & OTHER STORIES represents a departure for best-selling author Jojo Moyes. It consists of 1 novella which lasts slightly more than half of the novel and 8 short stories, averaging 13-14 pages each. Every tale involves a woman at a…
The Bookshop on the CornerThe Bookshop on the Corner, BookA Novel
by Colgan, JennyBook - 2016Book, 2016
cknightkc's rating:
Added Nov 17, 2016
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As it turns out THE LITTLE PARIS BOOKSHOP by Nina George and THE BOOKSHOP ON THE CORNER have a lot in common - I am not a fan of either one. In fact, I've now vowed for the foreseeable future not to read anything with “Book” in the title, for fear I’ll be bitterly disappointed. Like PARIS BOOKSHOP, this new novel by Jenny Colgan has an intriguing but misleading title and cover art. The “shop” is actually a van called “Little Shop of Happy-Ever-After”, nuff said. In truth I did connect slightly more with this story than that of Nina George’s. I appreciated the beautiful setting and descriptions of Scotland, as well as learned a little about its people and culture, but for a novel that was clearly written by a book-lover, it soon became a silly romance and I didn’t come away with a lot of book ideas. This is a quick, predictable and inconsequential read, with emphasis on the “light” and “fluffy”.As it turns out THE LITTLE PARIS BOOKSHOP by Nina George and THE BOOKSHOP ON THE CORNER have a lot in common - I am not a fan of either one. In fact, I've now vowed for the foreseeable future not to read anything with “Book” in the title, for fear…
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