"A Book is Good Company"

The Postmistress (by Sarah Blake)

2011-03-23T10:03:00.000-07:00

I picked this book up in the book shop at the airport on my way to NYC. I love buying books at the airport, I don't know why. Its a bad habit, well bad habit for my wallet. In any case, I really enjoyed this book, and I finished it by the time I made it back to Texas. This book is about a small town during World War II (before the U.S. became involved), and reporters who were covering The Blitz in London. Their lives of course end up mixing in the end. I thought the book was a well written fictional novel about life during World War II before we entered the war. The small town was located in Massachusetts, and there was a lot of fear of a German invasion during this time. I also learned more about The Blitz than I knew before reading the book. The book really dived into many different lives and perspectives during that time. It is not a "happy" book per se, but rather a character study. I recommend this book if you like to read about WWII (which I do) and if you like romance and relationships.

Up next: Sarah's Key (another WWII book)

Fear not for I have returned....

2011-01-04T09:01:00.000-08:00

Hello Bloggie friends. I realize its been almost three months without a book review post. Do not dismay, I have been reading in the past three months. Quite a lot actually. I'll start posting reviews of those books today and throughout this week! First up:

The Hunger Games (by Suzanne Collins)

Let me preface this by saying - one books that are "series" I don't think I'll post reviews about the following books in the series. I don't want to ruin anyones journey through the first books in the series by posting what happens in the later books...

I read all three books in the Hunger Games series in one week, on my Kindle, which gives you immediate satisfaction for buying books (a good and a bad thing). I could not stop reading these books. Seriously. I was intrigued and the suspense was killing me.

The Hunger Games is a three book series, which begins with the book entitled "The Hunger Games" (go figure). The second book is called "Catching Fire" and the third book is called "The Mocking Jay." The last two names make sense after you read the first book.

These books are set in a Country called "Panem" which is basically North America, but is a post apocalyptic North America. So, now the country is called Panem. It has a central government called "The Capital" which I think is based in Colorado..and the rest of the country is broken into "Districts," there are twelve districts, with a thirteenth that was allegedly wiped out. In any case, there is a rebellion some 75 years ago - because well The Capitol basically sucks (this is not a democratic society). The Capitol uses the Districts to provide sustenance for itself, so each District has its own Industry. The one that is at the heart of these books is District 12 and the mine for coal. As a result of the Rebellion, to punish the Districts, each year one boy and one girl (between the ages of 12 - 18) are picked from each District to compete in a Hunger Game. The downside is, only one child can survive the Hunger Games. So, basically 23 kids are killed each year to punish the Districts for their rebellion and to ward off any future rebellions (which it doesn't seem like that actually wards off anything). In any case, the Hunger Games is in a big arena and basically you have to fight to the death. Not entirely sure how this constitutes a Young Adults book..pretty scary. In any case, that's the premise, and then the book follows this chick named Katniss, who is 16 years old, and all her antics and relationships. See, the Hunger Games is like the Olympics for the residents who live in the Capitol. A big skeptical, televised, with parties and dances and then the actual Hunger Games is shown live on TV and each contestant has "sponsors" who can send things to them during the Games - like food and medicine.

I really liked this series. I thought that the characters were really well developed, and it caused you to root for them throughout the book and in the Games themselves. There is also some romantical parts to the book too for those romantic lovers out there. Kept it interesting. I thought that the themes throughout the book of struggle, perserverence, and courage were really well played out. I recommend this book if you like adventure, suspense, and romance.

Review up next: The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance: A Memoir (by Elna Baker)

Sidenote - In the past three months, I also read 2.25 more books in the "Outlander" series. Those books are really long - like 900 - 1,000 pages long, so maybe I won't have as many reviews as I thought... and in keeping with my no reviews of series books past the first one rule, let's just say - they are as good, if not better, than the first Outlander books.

Outlander (by Diana Gabaldon)

2010-10-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

As I have mentioned before, my mom is a lover of books that come in "series". Her bookshelves at home are lined with series - murder, mystery, romance, witches, if its a series, she owns it. Which, I have to say, benefits me also, especially if I want to start reading the series, because she has all the books already. Good for the pocketbook. Well - two years ago (or thereabouts) when I went home for some holiday, she bestowed upon me the Outlander series, and said, and I quote "you will no be disappointed." Hesitant to get wrapped up in a series of books with each book at a meager 800 pages each, I put it on my bookshelf and didn't look back. That was until last month, when after reading "In cold blood" I needed a fast/lighthearted read. Something to take my mind of the reality of civilization. So why not read about a time travelling nurse in the 1940s? I opened the first book of the series - "Outlander" and began my journey. Oh My Gosh. I quickly realized how ADDICTING this book was. I would think about it at work, and be excited to get home to read it at the end of the day. We aren't talking a literary masterpiece here, but it is damn good. It has all the makings of the perfect chick book - love, time travel, romance, scottish warriors, love, romance, ... love, romance... you get the point. Basically, the book is about a main character - Claire Randall aka Claire Beauchamp. She is visiting Scotland with her hubby in 1940s (after WWII) - Frank Randall - and while on a hike to look at some rocks, she gets hurled back into the 1700s, in Scotland. She gets swept up in the life and times and love of the 1740s and basically the book follows her story from that point on. Its a guilty pleasure to read this book, and luckily for me there are 7 more books in this series to carry me onward. I just started the second book - Dragonfly in Amber, and it is not disappointing either (and it is also 800+ pages). I recommend this book if you are looking for an easy, entertaining, and addicting read. It won't take you long to power through the 800 pages, and it will definitely leaving you wanting more at then end, and luckily there is more!

In Cold Blood (by Truman Capote)

2010-10-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

I have a fascination (albeit strange) of true crime stories. So, when I was reading about a sad sad story on CNN the other day, my co-worker suggested I read In Cold Blood. And I did. And I liked it. Can you really say you like a nonfiction story about a family that gets murdered? In any case, I didn't "enjoy" it, but found it intensely interesting. And, well, Truman Capote was just an amazing story teller. I was thoroughly engaged and felt like I knew every side of the story of what happened to that tragic family. If you don't know what this book is about, it basically, in detail, describes the before, during, and after of the murder of a family in Kansas, from the perspective of everyone involved - the killers, the towns people, and the police/detectives. Yea, a very happy book. But apparently, Truman Capote went to Holcombe and researched heavily into the murders, and, according to some stories, striked up a friendship with one of the killers. I recommend this book if only that it is in and of itself a "classic." But, if you get scared easily, I would not recommend it. It is very real.

Up Next: The Hunger Games (by Suzanne Collins)

The Art of Racing in the Rain (by Garth Stein)

2010-09-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

I just finished this book last week. It was for book club. I think at book club we spent approximately 5 minutes, maybe, talking about the book. But the point of book club is to drink wine and chat, didn't you know that? In any case, I liked the book. It was a book about a man and his family, told from the perspective of the man's dog - Enzo. Interesting and creative idea. At times I found myself forgetting that I was reading from the perspective of the dog. Very clever writing. The main guy - the owner of the dog - Denny Swift, is a race driver. Not a Nascar driver, but a race driver on courses around the world in fancy shmancy cars. The book uses the racing as an analogy to life throughout the book. Basically, the dog falls in love with the racing also. Denny meets a woman, gets married, has a kid, and it goes on from there. This book definitely had its sad moments (not quite as sad as Marley & Me where I bawled like a little girl at the end), but definitely sad. And it also deals with the struggle between your dreams and the realities of those dreams. All in all a good read. Especially if you like dogs. I'm a cat person myself, but I found this entertaining.

Up next: In Cold Blood (by Truman Capote) - I'm trying to mix in a few more classics into my reading repertoire.

One Day (by David Nicholls)

2010-09-09T09:36:00.000-07:00

I picked this book up at B&N on a whim. I was trying to find "The Art of Racing in the Rain" (for book club) and stumbled upon this book, as it was a pick of one of the employees at B&N. My, am I glad I found this book. What a thought provoking, emotional, and creative novel. This book follows the lives of two people - Emma and Dexter, and is set in England. Em and Dex meet on their last day of college after graduation. Em, after having a crush on Dexter for almost all of college, finally lands him at a party that night. What follows is a dramatic and yet delightful trip through the next 20 years of their lives, but only told on one day of the year - July 15th (hence the title "One Day"). Each chapter is July 15. Each chapter discusses what is going on that day in Emma's life and in Dexter's life. Each of the characters has an impact on the other's life. This book read fast, was immensely addicting, and hard to put down. I'm glad I read it on vacation because I had extended periods of time to read. This isn't a happy go lucky chick lit book. It deals with real struggles throughout the book, but it also unravels a genuine love between the two main characters. I felt myself relating at times to the struggle to "find yourself" and establish yourself as a woman in her 20s, and I also related to the quest to find love, and the obstacles along the way. I recommend this book. It is quite enjoyable. Make sure you have tissues handy throughout the book.

Up Next: The Art of Racing in the Rain (by Garth Stein)

Commencement (by J. Courtney Sullivan)

2010-08-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed this book. It was a light reading until the very end when it turned into a mystery. Kind of threw me for a loop. This book follows 4 women, from when they first meet at the all girls - Smith College, to when they are in their late twenties in respective different areas of the world/life. It's told from each of the 4 girls perspectives, which is interesting because it also talks about events that happened in their lives from different point of view. There's the feminist girl, the snob, the rich girl, and the laid back chick. I related to a lot of the book, as in relationships I formed in College and how life is like for the relationship four years later. It read really fast, and kept you pretty enthralled. It dealt with love, dreams, growing up, not wanting to grow up, losing touch, and also when its a good time to be opinionated about a friend's choices and when you should just keep your mouth shut. I recommend this book for a light end of summer read, but watch out for the last 100 pages, will surprise ya.

Up next: The Likeness (by Tana French) and The Art of Racing in the Rain (by Garth Stein) (for book club)

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake (by Aimee Bender)

2010-08-10T07:54:00.000-07:00

I read this book a few weeks back, on recommend from one of my besties. I liked it. I didn't loveee it. But I liked it. This book concerns a girl, who ate the age of 9, realizes that she can feel the emotions of the person who made the food she is eating when she eats the food they made (got that?). She quickly realizes how sad her mom is, despite her mom's peppy exterior. The book then chronicles her teenage years having to learn to deal with the ability to tell what someone is really feeling inside. There are some relationships thrown in there, as well as some heartbreak. If anything, this book made me think about what its like to "mask" your emotions if you will. How often do we do that? Pretend to be happy when we are crying inside? Or pretend to love something when in fact you hate it? I would have loveed this book if there hadn't been this weird, unexplained thing with the brother, I didn't feel like there was an adequate explanation. But I'll let you be the judge. I recommend it if you don't mind reading about super human powers, and are able to suspend reality for about 300 pages.

Up next: Commencement (by J. Courtney Sullivan) - already finished this, currently reading The Likeness (by Tana French)

The Girl who Kicked the Hornet's Nest (by Steig Larssen)

2010-07-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

This book is the third and final book in Steig Larssen's series. And what a good series it was! The third book was my favorite. It might be because everything comes to a climax and resolutions, and it also might be because it seemed to read at a faster pace. Once again, as with all his books, there is a lot of description of everything - such as "now we are drinking coffee", "he walked up the stairs", etc. If you have read these books then you know what I am talking about. This particular book deals with the protection of Zalachenko, Salander's dad, and the secret section of the Security Police who used every tactic it could to protect itself and Zalachenko, to the detriment of Salander. This book was interesting because it got a little Bourne-y - spies, stalkers, crime, murder, etc. I enjoyed this book, and like I said it was a good conclusion to this series. I recommend it!

Up next: Winter Garden (by Kristin Hannah) - I think this book has been on my "to read" list for about 6 months.

After that - if anyone has an good recommends let me know!

Just Don't Call Me Ma'am: How I Ditched the South, Forgot My Manners, and Managed to Survive My Twenties with (Most of) My Dignity Still Intact (by Anna Mitchael)

2010-07-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

I read this book in less than 24 hours. It was just that good. This is a non-fiction memoir about a chick named Anna (the author). She is in her late twenties. It was very witty and relatable. At times I felt like I was reading about my own life. She's a Texan, from Houston who moved from Boston to Seattle to New York. The book starts in her apartment in Brooklyn, and at the end of a relationship, and continues on from there. Its an introspective look at the mind of a late twenties woman who is forging on through adulthood. I thoroughly thoroughly enjoyed it, and cannot wait to discuss it at book club in a month!

Up next: Still reading The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, keep getting sidetracked, but plan on finishing it up soon!

A Space Between Us (by Thrity Umbrigar)

2010-06-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

I just read this book for my June book club meeting. It took me a while to get through it, but it was interesting nonetheless. This book is set in India, Mumbai to be exact. This book is centered around two main characters - Bhima and Serabai. Bhima is a maid for Serabai and lives in the slums with her granddaughter Maya, and Serabai is a member of the middle class and lives in an apartment in a high rise building in Mumbai. The book details the two women's lives and how they intersect and effect one another. I learned a great deal in this book about the Indian culture and the class system. This book also deals with the power of ignorance in your life and how it can mold who you are and the decisions you make in your life. It also deal with the issue of prejudice, and how even if you care about someone so much, the prejudice you feel towards their class of people overrides any care you might feel for them. This is not a happy book. Its realistic and deals with difficult topics, including abortion (just to forewarn ya).

I won't lie and say that I didn't skim it the last 100 pages, mostly because I had only read half the day of our book club. But it is a good book, well written, and worthy of your time if you are looking for a more serious book.

Up next: The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Next (by Steig Larssen)

The Carrie Diaries (by Candace Bushnell)

2010-05-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

I was given this book by a best friend of mine, and I took it with me to read while on vacation in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. That was the best decision! This was a perfect "beach read". It's an easy read - I read it in 3 days (much of which were interrupted by floating on a raft in a pool and drinking Pina Coladas, among other things). This book is a prequel if you will of the Sex and the City book by the same author. In this book, you read about Carrie Bradshaw's senior year of high school and all the antics, drama, romance that comes along with it. I really enjoyed it. It was entertaining and read fast. I learned all about Carrie's senior year - her friends in high school, the boys she dated, her decision to become a writer, and why she ended up in NYC. I definitely recommed this book if you are a fan of Sex and the City, gives ya a glimpse of Carrie pre NYC. Still the same spunky girl though as she is on the show! I wouldn't mind reading a book like this about Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha. A little back story is always good, and I hear in the upcoming movie (to be released this week!) we get a glimpse of the ladies back in the Eighties!

Up next: The Host (by Stephanie Meyer) - about 1/4 in right now, AND The Shack (by William Young) - about 1/2 through.

Little Bee (by Chris Cleave)

2010-05-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

What an interesting book. This one did not take me long to get through. I won't divulge too much of what this book is about because it'll ruin it for you and I don't want to do that. But, what I will tell you is this - read it. This book is not "easy" emotionally. Its not a romantic book. It is a love story though. This book centers around a character named "Little Bee" who is a Nigerian Refugee and a British woman named Sarah and how their lives impact each other's lives. This book will take you through the emotions of anger, fear, compassion, gratitude, frustration and happiness. That's all I will tell you about it thought - I definitely recommend you read this one for yourself! And then let me know what you think!

Up Next: The Shack (William P. Young)

In the Woods (by Tana French)

2010-04-30T08:48:00.000-07:00

I just finished this book for book club (which meets tonight). This is a mystery novel, similar in a way to Steig Larrsons "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo". I enjoyed this book, although it took me a while to get through (it might have been more of my busyness at work, then the book itself). It takes place in Ireland (Dublin and Knocknaree - a small town in Ireland). It was interesting to learn a lot about Ireland and the fictional police force that the author made up. This book follows two Murder Squad detectives, Cassie and "Rob" Ryan, as the seek to uncover who murdered a teenage girl in what is called "The Woods" located in Knocknaree Estate. Knocknaree also happens to be where "Rob" Ryan (the quoatation marks are added because his real name is Adam, which plays a key part in the book) grew up and was part of a disappearance of two of his best friends back in the 80s, a crime that is still unsolved. The book was a little heavily worded at times for my taste (I did some skimming of descriptions of things), but the dialogue was well written between the characters. The author does a good job of exploring the dynamics of a "partnership" between Rob and Cassie, and the role this partnership plays in each of their lives, and how one incident can cause repercussions for the rest of your life. I'm excited to discuss this book tonight at book club, and I recommend it to all those mystery lovers out there. The ending will surprise you and surely lead to discussions. I have mixed feelings about the ending, just to put that out there. Let me know what you think!

Rating: Could put down but enjoyed it while i was reading it.

Up next: Little Bee (by Chris Cleave)

The Monster of Florence (by Douglas Preston)

2010-04-21T11:10:00.000-07:00

This books was good in many ways and not so good in many ways. This books is non-fiction and details the story of "The Monster of Florence" - a person who killed couples as they messed around in cars in the Florence country-side. The book is very descriptive about the crimes and the investigations concerning the crimes. This book follows Douglas Preston - a journalist who moves to Florence and meets Mario Spezi (another journalist in Florence who had been following the Monster of Florence case from the beginning). The author describes Mario Spezi's investigation and personal dealings with the Monster of Florence. The book also beautifully describes the Florence country-side and gives you a glimpse into Italian culture, police work, and societal norms. That part was very interesting. The part which became a little tedious was the descriptions of the on-going investigations and false accusations that ran rampant during the 30 year pendency of the case (which remains unsolved). As far as historical non-fiction goes it was pretty enlightening, other than the slow parts which were easliy skimmable.

Rating: Good

Up next: Columbine (by Dave Cullen) and In the Woods (by Tana French - for book club!)

Oh and if you're wondering...

2010-03-24T07:40:00.003-07:00

I am reading "The Monster of Florence" right now. So far so good!

Posts

2010-03-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

I have been reading books my faithful readers! Its been a busy two three months for me in lawyer land but things are starting to slow down so hopefully I will have reviews written this week for these books:

- The Piano Teacher
- The Year of Fog

Both very good books (and both read for book club).

Much love.

Her Fearful Symmetry (By Audrey Niffenegger)

2010-01-20T10:10:00.000-08:00

I received this book as a Christmas present from one of my besties - Elaine (she has a book blog too - http://alittlebookworm.blogspot.com/). This book is from the author of the famed "Time Traveler's Wife" so I knew I was in for twists and turns. The setting of this book takes place in London's Highgate Cemetery and an apartment building which overlooks the cemetery. The characters in this book are two sets of twins, one of the sets is in their 20s, and the other is in their late 40s/50s. One of the 40s twins is the 20s twins mom (got that?). The story follows the series of events that occurs after one of the 40s twins passes away and bequeths her apartment overlooking the cemetery to the 20s twins. They move into the apartment, and are met with the presence of their dead aunt, and form a relationship with her, and the odd neighbors of the building. I enjoyed this book as it explored the relationships between twins and the jealousies and dependency that occurs between them. And no worries, you'll get your Niffenegger twist in there.

Naked in Death (JD Robb)

2010-01-20T10:02:00.000-08:00

Did I mention my mom is WAY into reading series upon series of mystery novels? Whether its Sue Grafton, Nora Roberts, or Patterson, she LOVES these things. Which means she trys her hardest to get me into these series. The problem is that once I start reading the series, they are on book a hundred million of the series (okay, maybe not quite that many, but enough to seem overwhelming). So, I generally end up giving up after book 2. Well, she got me to read the book to the left of this post, which is a part of the "In death" series by JD Robb (aka Nora Roberts). And well, I'm hooked. I'm not sure what it is about this particular book but I really enjoyed it. The "In Death" series follows Eve Dallas, a futuristic detective, and her relationships, mysteries, and struggles. It is an easy to read, engaged crime novel. Each book apparently has its own mystery to solve in which it appears (after reading 1 1/2) that Eve always solves. This particular book (Book 1 of about oh I think 20), we get introduced to Eve and the futuristic world she lives in (I believe its NYC in about 2065 or something like that, far away enough that cars fly). This mystery deals with the death of "licensed companions". It was entertaining and I enjoyed the witty writing of Nora Rober... er JD Robb. There is also a little bit of romance thrown in there to titilate the taste buds.

The Girl Who Played with Fired (by Steig Larsson)

2010-01-12T08:03:00.000-08:00

Well, with the holidays and everything, I was able to read a few books. The first one - the book to the left - I received as a present from one of my friends. This is the sequel to the Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. It was just as good, or better. The upside of this book was you didn't have the 100 pages of explanation of characters like the last book, which is understandable since it is a sequel. This book dealt with the issue of sex trade in Sweden (I'm not sure if this is a real issue in Sweden, by Swedish knowledge is a bit lacking). In this sequel we have the same characters from the last book - Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander. There is less interaction between the two in this novel. This sequel focuses on the life of Lisbeth more than the first book. We get a glimpse into her back history and the reasons why she is the way she is, while also watching her character mature and grow into a better version of herself. This book hooked me more then the last book (don't get me wrong, I really liked the first book). There are a lot of twists and turns in this novel as they seek to discover who murdered two people investigating the sex trade and the major players. It's once again, a mystery, and a very well written one at that.

Rating: Hard to put down.

Up Next: Naked in Death (by JD Robb)

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (by Stieg Larsson)

2009-12-16T14:45:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed this book. This book is the first book in a new series (I'm hoping to get the second book for Christmas - The Girl who Plays with Fire!). I won't lie, it took a little bit to get into this book. The storylines are a bit complex, and the author is very detailed in his descriptions. And all the characters have Swedish names. After I got through the back stories and preliminary information, I had a hard time putting it down. So, if you start this book, push through the first 100, it'll be worth it in the end. This book is about a Swedish journalist, a Swedish Private Investigator, and a Swedish Financier. An investigation brings the three together. This book has elements of mystery, romance (albeit not the lovey type of romance), suspense, and murder. It throws curveballs at you, and kept me entertained after the first 100 pages. I definitely recommend this to anyone who is interested in a good mystery.

Rating: CPD (after 100)

Up Next: The Pillars of the Earth (by Ken Follet) (this one is a mammouth (1,000 pages), so I am intermixing other books in as I get tired of it)

The Story of Forgetting (by Stephen Merrill Block)

2009-11-17T11:21:00.000-08:00

This book is very intellectually stimulating. The Story of Forgetting is mainly centered around early onset familial Alzheimers. But the way the Author tells the story makes it what it is. He weaves the stories of two men, one is in his 70s and the other is in his teens. Both men (or boys) experience the ramifications of alzheimers in their families in different ways. In the midst of these two separate stories, a sense of unity forms. This book details what alzheimers is, how it effects the mind, and the genetic contributions. It also details the human side of the disease, and its effect on the people it infects and the family members who care for those people. It is a tough book in the sense of the topic and how hard it is on the families, but it the story is presented in such a good way that it lessens the tragic effect of the disease. I recommend this book. I was particularly interested in it because of my psychology/neurology back ground from college, but I think anyone will enjoy this tale of two human spirits and the adversity they overcome.

Rating: CPD.

Up Next: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (by Stieg Larsson)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN (a day early)

2009-10-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

I know what you're thinking, Silly Sara, Halloween is tomorrow! Well friends, I won't have time to blog till Sunday because of my fantastically fun weekend. Tonight starts off with a dinner, and Mary Poppins! Tomorrow is our spooky halloween party! Hope everyone has a ghoulishly delicious weekend.

The Help (by Kathryn Stockett)

2009-10-28T14:35:00.000-07:00

This was a great book, as is evidenced by the fact that it is a National Bestseller. This books concerns 1950s, Jackson, Mississippi. And is told from the perspective of three women - Miss Skeeter, Aibeleen, and Minny. The age range of characters in this book is primarily 23-30 year olds, and 50-60 year olds. This book centers around the interactions between women, whether black or white, whether friends or maids. It catalogues the relationship dynamics between all different types of women. It focuses also on the dynamics of the societal times during the 1950s and the different race relationships. It centers on a white woman, Miss Skeeter, who decides to write a book upon the urging of an editor in NYC. She decides to write the book about how "The Help" are treated in Jackson, Mississippi, and is helped by several maids/nannies in Jackson who contribute with their stories of working for women in Jackson. It was a well written book that gives a different perspective to the 1950s. I wasn't thrilled with the ending, but I understand why it was written the way it was. If you read the authors own personal story in the back of the book it makes a lot more sense why she chose to write about this topic.

Rating: Altogether good.

Up Next: The Story of Forgetting (by Stephen Block) (its for my book club).

Dead Until Dark (by Charlaine Harris)

2009-10-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

Okay, who doesn't enjoy a little juicy/easy read every once in a while? I know I thoroughly enjoy it! After reading Same Kind of Different As Me, I needed a lighter book to enjoy. (oh, I forgot to mention, when you read Same Kind of Different As Me make sure you have a kleenex box next to you towards the end of the book, just saying...). I went home to visit the mom and wound up with the whole Dead Until Dark series loaded into my SUV to take back with me to Houston. Dead Until Dark is the book that is the basis for "True Blood" on HBO. A fave of mine. I was interested to see how closely the show stuck to the book and well it does a pretty good job (now granted I've only read the first book, there are about 8 more to go). This book is about Sookie Stackhouse, who lives in the fictional town of Bon Temps, Louisiana. Vampires have just entered the human world, and some are strikingly handsome. Like I said, if you have seen the first season of True Blood, then you know what this book is about. For those that don't watch it or don't have HBO, it is about Sookie meeting the vampire Bill who is trying to go "main stream" into society and live among humans. The book follows their love story, and other trial/tribulations/murders that take place along the way. Its enjoyable and an easy read. Now I just need to tackle the other 8 books (i'm bad at keeping up with series).

Rating: Good, but could put down.

Up Next: Sisters (by Danielle Steel) (yes you read that right, I even checked it out from the Public Library!)

Same Kind of Different As Me (by Ron Hall and Denver Moore)

2009-10-08T13:39:00.001-07:00

This book was INCREDIBLE. It is an inspiring story that grips you from the moment you start reading it. At first I enjoyed it because it is based in the F-dub (that's Ft Worth for those Non-texans out there), and well I grew up right next door to F-dub, and knew all the places described in the book. The book is a true story written by two men (Ron Hall and Denver Moore) who meet in the most unusual of places (at a gospel mission in downtown f-dub). The story chronicles each men's lives throughout the period before, during, and after they meet. It is inspiring to read about the depth of their relationship, the impact of Ron's wife on the gospel mission, and the growth that occurs for both men throughout the book. It is a book about faith and belief. I recommend this book to anyone who needs a little inspiration/encouragement in life. It really makes you think about your life and the blessings in it and how you can impact the world.

Rating: CPD

Up Next: well...i already read the up next book for this post (i've been a bit slow in my blogging lately) - I read Dead Until Dark (by Charlaine Harris).

American Wife (by Curtis Sittenfeld)

2009-09-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I read this on a recommendation from Elaine and it was well worth it. I had a hard time putting it down. This book is loosely based on the life of Laura Bush. The main character is Alice, and it chronicles her life growing up from small town Riley, Wisconsin, to big town Washington, D.C. The book includes stories of love, happiness, sadness, friendship, and trials and tribulations I found relatable (well except for marrying the president of the U.S.). I didn't know much about Laura Bush's life, and would have to ask friends for information about her or to verify a storyline from the book. Its about 50/50 I would say. And it doesn't matter whether you like her or not, its just a good, girly story.

Rating: CPD

Up Next: Same Kind of Different as Me (about half way through right now).

The Hour I First Believed (by Wally Lamb)

2009-08-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

I finished this book this weekend. It took me three weeks to read this for many reasons. One, it was long with small type, two, I had a hard time getting through, three, too many characters. This was a well written, dynamic, and complex book. It starts off with the Columbine shootings, and ends on a farm in Connecticut. This book is about one man - Caelum Quirk, and the aftermath and emotional turmoil of the Columbine shootings, and its effect on his wife Maureen, who suffered PTSD from the shootings (she was in the library (this is ficitional character)). It also goes into Caelum's family and ancestors. I had a hard time with characters that were mentioned in the beginning and then not mentioned again until page 400 and had to refresh my memory. Its very historical and sometimes I felt a bit slow. It wasn't a can't put down book, but if you are in the market for a very developed, character driven book, this one is for you. But if you are looking for a light read, I'd pass.

Rating: Just okay.

Up next: American Wife.

Julie and Julia: My Year of Cooking Dangerously (by Julie Powell)

2009-08-12T07:34:00.000-07:00

I read this book in three days. It was a funny, witty memoir of Julie Powell's year long adventure to cook through Julia Child's "Master the Fine Art of Cooking". If you haven't been living under a rock, then you know what this book is about because the movie was released last week. I wanted to finish the book before I saw the movie (its generally how I like to do things, minus Harry Potter). It was an entertaining look at Julie's life while she attempted to cook all 600 or so recipes from the book. I related in a lot of ways to a lot of her stories and I think that made it more enjoyable. Let's face it, who doesn't get bored with their life and want to find a way to spice it up? Atleast every now and again. I can't wait to see the movie, because I have heard it is really fun! Julie's book is inspiring for all of us out there that like to cook, but have no training, and only have minimal space to cook, and not a lot of time.

Rating: CPD

Movie: Yes, out last week, with THE Meryl Streep and Amy Adams (who I adore)

Up Next: The Hour I First Believed (by Wally Lamb) (this is a long one, so a review might not come for a week or two).

Vision in White (by Nora Roberts)

2009-08-10T08:08:00.000-07:00

This was a fun/easy read. If you love weddings and romance, you'll love this book. Its the first of four books in a series by Nora Roberts. I like Nora Roberts series (I read the Garden Series a few years back). I'm not sure when the 2nd one "Bed of Roses" is due out, but I heard in October. A group of four women, who have been best friends forever, start a wedding business at an estate that belongs to one of the four women. One woman is a photographer, one is a florist, another a baker, and another wedding planner. Each book is about each different woman. As you might tell from the title of this book, this book talks about the photographer - Mac. She is fun, witty, a little bit messed up, and easily relateable to. I recommed this book to anyone who wants a good, quick, light read. And, you'll find yourself wondering if there is another Carter Maguire out there for you too!

Rating: CPD the last half, it was a litte slow at the beginnig.

Movie: Nope.

Up next: Julie and Julia: A Year of Cooking Dangerously (by Julie Powell)

A little bit book crazy-

2009-08-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to the bookstore, Borders. And as this blog can attest, I love books. I'm not sure what it is about bookstores but something just calms the soul when I go into one. Maybe its the thought of the endless adventures, stories, love, heartache, relationships, that I will be able to encounter by the books. Whatever it is...it consumes me. Which is why I don't let myself go into bookstores too often (and by too often, I mean I go probably 1/2 a month). I went crazy last night. I bought 4 books, at one point I had 6 books in my arms. Now, keep in mind, these are in addition to the already 5 book long list on the right side of this blog. I just felt an itch to get some books. Maybe its my mom who I inherited that from, she and I can do some serious damage together at B&N. Anways, the books I added to my collection, and will surely be reviewed on this blog are as follows: An American Wife; Julie and Julia; An American Wife; Julie and Julia; Same Kind of Different as Me; and I Know this Much is True (Wally Lamb). I'm excited to read all four of those. The other two I put down were "The Help" and "Twenties Girl" by Sophie Kinsella. I'll save those for next time. And trust me, there will be a next time, and I'll probably still have 5 books on the list to read.

Vision in White review coming up shortly (about 100 pages left to read...)

The Pact (by Jodi Picoult)

2009-07-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

I swear I don't always just read good books. I know it seems that way from all my CPD reviews as of late. This is another one of the CPD. I read this book because it is for my gal friends and I's monthly "book club" in August. I really liked it. If you are in the mood for a light hearted read, this isn't for you. It tackles a full range of aspects - friendship, love, commitment, legal, ethics, family, and the impact one person can have on another. Jodi Picoult always tackles the sensitive issues, and this one is definitely in that realm. It made me think about the implications of deep relationships and what it really means when you put someone above your own needs. I recommend this book, but only if you are in the mood for a thought-provoking dive into the human psyche.

Rating: CPD

Movie: The front of the book says it was made into a Lifetime Movie, I'll have to check that one out.

Up Next: Vision in White (by Nora Roberts)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (by JK Rowling)

2009-07-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

I don't need to put a picture of this book on here because I'm going to go ahead and assume everyone knows what it looks like. I have to admit, I did not read any of the other Harry Potter books (well I read bits and pieces of the first one a while ago). I have just seen the movies over the past 7 or so years and I enjoy them. Well, after watching the last movie at the theater, I decided I didn't want to wait a year to find out how it all ended. So, I bought my first harry potter book, which happened to be the last one, and dove in. Man, was I hooked. I could not put this thing down. Everywhere I went I took the book with me in my oversized purse (even to the play I saw last week). I finished it this past weekend. It took me a week to get through all 750 pages. It was awesome, gripping, intriguing. It wrapped so many things up and made me wish I had read them all along. I definitely appreciated the characters a lot more. Maybe next summer I'll tackle the two prior to this last one. We shall see!

Rating: CPD x a million

Movie: Part one and two next year.

Up Next: The Pact (by Jodi Piccoult)

One For the Money (by Janet Evanovich)

2009-07-17T13:23:00.000-07:00

I also read this book while on vacay (took me a total of one day). My mom is a big fan of this series and gave me the first five books to read, and then to return for the next 5. I think there are a total of 15 books now. I know I'm a bit late on the bandwagon, considering this book has been out since the lat 90s, but sometimes it takes me a while.

I really enjoyed this book. It was an easy read, entertaining, and addictive. Its a mystery book about a female bounty hunter and her escapades. The writing is witty, just the way I like it. This story line was her first adventure, her being the main character Stephanie Plum, as a bounty hunter, because she needed some extra money. Its qutie humorous to read about her adventure with this new job and no experience. I look forward to reading books 2-15!

Rating: CPD.

No movie, although a tv series would be pretty cute!

UP Next: Still Harry Potter and The Deathly Hollows.

Firefly Lane (by Kristin Hannah)

2009-07-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

I read this book while on vacay in Mexico last week. I picked it up on a recommend from a fellow bookworm. Best recommend ever. If you are a girl, best friend, wife, daughter, woman, and mother, you'll enjoy and relate to this book. Firefly Lane follows a thirty year friendship of two girls that meet in the awkward throes of junior high, one seemingly outgoing girl and one seemingly insecure girl, both lonely. I think I related to both women throughout the book as they dove through different facets of life, whether its a crush, or choosing a career path or family, or accepting that the most important people in your life is the girl sitting next to you letting you cry on their shoulder, that you often times take for granted. This book has a realistic ending, and I won't say you won't need a box of tissues (just a hint). I got through this book in about 3 days. Granted, I was on vacation, with nothing to do but read this book, lay by the pool, and sip fruity drinks, but I think you will find yourself wanting to read it at every free moment you have.

Rating: CPD

I don't think a movie is being made about this book, but think "Beaches".

Up next: Harry Potter and The Deathly Hollows

The Memory Keeper's Daughter (by Kim Edwards)

2009-06-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading this wonderful book. This book took me a little while to get through but each time I picked it up I was hooked. This book contrasts two separate lives bound by one decision that occurrs at the beginning of the book by one of the main characters. To me, it symbolized the power of one decision on the the entirety of a life, about how one secret can change the course and direction of lives for not just the secret keeper. The title evidences this symbolism - the husband has a camera called the "memory keeper", and he is also the "memory keeper" for the choice/secret he made. This book also highlights the struggles and joys of a child with down syndrome, and the unconditional love shown by the childs "mother" and the child itself. It is a deep and thought provoking book. Definitely not a light summer read. But well worth it.

Rating: CPD.

Movie: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0955298/, It was apparently turned into a lifetime tv movie in 2008. I definitely am interested in watching this!

Currently reading: The Virgin Lover (by Philipia Gregory)

I'm going on vacay in two weeks, anyone recommend some good light summer reading to read while laying by the beach/pool, sipping a rita?

The Reader (by Bernhard Schlink)

2009-06-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading this book. It was intense, to say the least. It is full of ideas and messages that truly make you think. The basic plot line (as most know because of the release of the movie), is that a boy gets sick and taken in by a woman twice his age. A love affair occurs between the two for a summer. They meet again under entirely different circumstances at the Nazi war crime trials. She being the Nazi war criminal. It really made me think about the implications of all the horrible things that the Nazis did and the ramifications it had on future German generations. I recommend reading this book when you have the time to give it a good read. It is very thought provoking in more ways than one.

Rating: CPD.

Up Next: The Memory Keeper's Daughter (by Kim Edwards).

Something Borrowed (By Emily Griffin)

2009-04-16T14:24:00.000-07:00

I know I said I was reading Sarah's Keys, but instead I chose to read this because it has been sitting on my shelf for a while. And man am I glad I read it. I could. not. put. it. down. This book is about an attorney, she is thirty years old, and single, and has this best friend from childhood that is very selfish and consuming, yes consuming. I won't go into too much detail for fear of spoiling the book, but let's just say it's really about the struggle to please other people above yourself, what you sacrifice when you do that, and how to regain your ability to put yourself and your needs first, especially when it comes to love. I recommend this book to anyone and everyone who happens to be a romantic. It also helped being an attorney and relating to the character in that way as well, although you don't have to be an attorney to relate. Just fyi.

Rating: CPD x a trillion.

Up next: Something Blue, the sequel to Something Borrowed. I feel attached to the character, so might as well pick up the next book in the series asap.

The Lucky One (by Nicholas Sparks)

2009-04-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

In true Nicholas Sparks tradition, this book is set in North Carolina. It concerns an ex-marine and his quest to find a girl in a photo that he found in Iraq. What unfolds is a story of love between the girl in the photo and the ex-marine, the relationship between the girl and her ex-hubby, and the relationship between the girl, the ex-marine, and the girl's son. Its set in a quiet NC town called Hampton. This was an easy read, slow at first but picked up towards the middle. It could have done without all the description and detail in the beginning, but I suppose it needed that to really understand the plight of the characters. I didn't cry at the end, like I do with most Nicholas Sparks books, but the characters remain with you even when you finish the book. (I thought about the characters this morning when I heard a commercial about ice cream (you'll have to read the book to understand)).

Length: about 300 (can't remember exactly)

Rating: LNL

Currently Reading: Sarah's Key (by Tatiana de Rosnay)

My Sister's Keeper (by Jodi Picoult)

2009-03-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

I finished this book last week. I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book concerns a family in the midst of decisions. One sister is sick, the other has been her donor for her entire life, a decision must be made and this book is about the varying thoughts and consequences and interactions that take place concerning this decision. It is told from the perspective of all the different characters. It examines the different family dynamics and personal struggles of all the characters. I read it in about 3 days.

Length: About 400 pages.

Movie: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1078588/ - to be released this year!

Rating: CPD.

Currently Reading: The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

Ratings Explained:

Here are my ratings -->

CPD = Can't Put Down

HTR = Hard to Read

ETPD = Easy to put down

LNL = Like not love

The First Post -

2009-03-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends...

I have decided to, with the inspiration from http://alittlebookworm.blogspot.com/ (Elaine's blog), create my own book review blog. I love to read, its one of my most favorite things to do! I will share the books i'm reading on this and a little review. Keep in mind my opinions are my own, are not professional opinions by any means, but only opinions of a fellow book worm. (can you tell the lawyer in me, ha).

First book discussion to come later...

Much Love.