Category: In The Library

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Important Things in Life

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Top Three

Three items top the list of what I think is important to learn in life. First is reading. Once a child can read the door is open to academia and every day how-to instructions. The second is swimming. Even for those far away from the ocean. Finally, everyone needs to learn how to cook. Did the last two surprise you?

Reading is Most Important

As a parent, I stressed the importance of reading and thus books. Bookshelf wealth is now a thing, but our house has always had a plethora of books. Children’s books, cook books, gardening books, novels and how-to books and many, many text books fill a multitude of bookshelves.

My belief is once reading is mastered, any skill or subject matter could be learned. One can literally become a jack or jill of all trades. Instructional books abound and of course every subject taught in school can be learned if one feels the subject is important.

Swimming

My parents prioritized learning to swim before I even started kindergarten. We lived in Florida and water was everywhere! The Red Cross lessons taught floating and diving in addition to several basic swim strokes. In turn, I also felt swim lessons were important even though my kids lived on the high plains and not a hundred yards or so from the Atlantic Ocean.

My insistence that they learned was based on a tragedy from my junior high years. A classmate lost her youngest brother when the preschooler drowned in a neighbor’s pool. Bodies of water are everywhere. Swimming, floating and treading water are necessary skills for everybody.

Cooking is Important Too

Hopefully times have changed enough that learning to cook is important for all. However, I belong to a generation where many males grill burgers and steaks and not much else. Fortunately, my in-laws taught all their kids to cook, and I am married to a man that could be a master chef if he wanted to change careers.

I do not remember the age my kids were when they first started fixing food for themselves. But they needed chairs to reach the counter or the stove top. It was quite important to supervise them in the early years.

Now my grandchildren are picking up skills in the kitchen. All three have multi-functional furniture called learning towers or kitchen helpers depending on the manufacturer. These cool pieces can act as a chair and table/desk when on the side or serve as a very sturdy stepstool when standing on end. The sides provide extra support when they are helping in the kitchen either cooking or at the sink.

The oldest helps grandpa make scones and grandma make brownies. Cooking skills are important to develop from an early age. We just make sure we also emphasize safety.

Enjoying a snack at the kitchen counter.
Learning Tower is in the background.

Basic Skills

Reading, swimming, and cooking are all basic skills. However, each is critically important for living a full healthy and happy life. At first glance all could be placed toward the bottom of Maslow’s Hierarchy. Yet each offers an individual a chance to grow toward the pinnacle of self-actualization. Hence, they are important things for all to master.

We Must Not Think of Ourselves Book Review

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Warsaw

A recent trip to the public library yielded We Must Not Think of Ourselves by Lauren Grodstein. Historical fiction, especially any involving World War II interests me. Mostly because I fear a repeat. Those who refuse to learn from history tend to repeat its’ sorrows.

Grodstein’s novel offers a glimpse of life inside the Warsaw Ghetto through the eyes of protagonist Adam Paskow and his journal. He was recruited by Emanuel Ringelblum to participate in the Oneg Shabbat. Both Ringelblum and the Oneg Shabbat existed. For more information on the group, click here.

Protagonist of We Must Not Think of Ourselves

The story unfolds from Paskow’s point of view. Journal entries and flashbacks build the history. Paskow explains what has long been a mystery. Why did so many remain in the year between the German invasion and the relocation to the Ghetto? Why the acquiescence?

Adam Paskow is a teacher and a non-practicing Jew. And a widower. He still visits his wife’s grave and finds comfort in the surroundings they shared. He stays behind in 1938 when the rest of his immediate family relocates to Palestine. Then, it is too late to go.

Paskow is an appealing character even though the detention wears down his morals. He becomes the lover of a woman who shares an apartment with him. Her husband, two children and another family also squeeze into the same small space.

Takeaways

We Must Not Think of Ourselves offers much to the reader. Well researched, the backdrop of the ghetto and its’ inhabitants shares the story of how genocide builds slowly and then happens all at once. The book highlights the importance of documentation. Without historical records, history can be forgotten or even worse-rewritten.

This reader has mixed reactions to the love story. In some ways, the relationship is believable and needed for the ending. However, conducting an affair in such close quarters…this stretches the imagination. Surely there would be more scenes of tension.

Recommendation for We Must Not Think of Ourselves

I found the novel well written and informative. A check-out from your library or an addition to your personal library is highly recommended. Individual cultures and ethnicities are still threatened today. Indeed, the cultural clashes are as responsible for today’s wars and disagreements as the age-old cause of war-land and resources. If world peace is ever to occur, this hatred and fear of those different or merely from different backgrounds must cease.

Hidden Potential Book Review

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Another Winner from Adam Grant

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things written by Adam Grant was one of the books I gifted to a family member this past Christmas. Now that I have read the book, more family members will become recipients. I found that much value in the tome.

Grant pens a book that is not an easy read self-help book. In fact, I slogged through some of the early parts. But it was worth the effort. Hidden Potential inspires. I found the work insightful, thought provoking and educational.

Layout of Hidden Potential

The author separates the book into three main sections sandwiched between a prologue and epilogue. Grant grabs the reader’s attention with a tale of successful high school chess players hailing from a high school in Harlem. Then he arrives at the heart of the work. The first section is Skills of Character.  Focus of the unit is on the need to experience setbacks in order to improve and gain success. Key takeaways include operating outside one’s comfort zone, and learning as much as one can from a wide variety of sources and individuals. Perhaps the most difficult for a perfectionist is the notion that excellence and perfection can be polar opposites.

The second segment is Structures for Motivation. Grant introduces the concept of scaffolding. Many educators will be familiar with the concept. Others will benefit from discovering this learning strategy. This section will take work to comprehend.

Finally, Systems of Opportunity provides a blueprint for educators, managers and motivated individuals to follow. This last part of the book offers the greatest motivation. I found Grant’s anecdotes rejuvenating. His theories have merit. The answers to many contemporary problems are out there, we just need to work together to find them. Teamwork is vital.

Recommendation for Hidden Potential

This is the second work from Grant that I have read and reviewed. Option B co-authored with Sheryl Sandberg was just as powerful albeit different in tone. I encourage anyone in education or management to read this book. Furthermore, individuals with a thirst for knowledge will also benefit. Finally, Hidden Potential is the perfect gift for those stuck in a rut or anyone underperforming due to fear of success.

 

Fake Famous Book Review

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Young Adult

Fake Famous by Dana L. Davis is a delightful novel. A blend between a sweet romance and a coming-of-age novel, the story will appeal to a wide range of readers. Even though the concept of strangers switching identities is not new, Ms. Davis offers a fresh, contemporary take.

This selection is a library check-out. The back cover described a prior Davis novel as a YA or Young Adult. Since I am trying to expand genres in my reviews, I quickly picked up Fake Famous. I am happy I did.

Red Morgan-Star of Fake Famous

Red Morgan is a hard-working Iowa farm girl. Her ginger hair is passed down through a Creole ancestor. The opening scenes depict her loyalty to her family and their farm. Additionally, the author provides glimpses of the difficulties farm families have in making ends meet.

The protagonist hits her 15 minutes of fame when her younger sister’s video goes viral. Red is singing when a fence gives out and she falls into a large pile of manure. She doesn’t miss a beat and poses like the famous diva Zay-Zay Waters. Unbeknownst to Red, Zay-Zay has just dyed her hair red and sees the viral video. And, hatches up a scheme. Zay-Zay needs some alone time.

Fake Famous Plot

Harkening back to Mark Twain’s The Prince and The Pauper, Zay-Zay suddenly appears on the farm with a monetary deal Red can’t pass up. The pop star wants Red to fill her shoes for a week of glamorous appearances. Meanwhile, Zay-Zay will go on a soul-finding retreat. The only catch is Red must interact with Koi Kalawai’a, a fellow singing sensation and boyfriend to Zay-Zay. Except, he’s not.

Apparently Hollywood romances are fake too. But the chemistry between Koi and Red is real and so the complications begin. In addition to romance, Davis provides an insiders look into the lives of the rich and famous. Between the paparazzi and the fakeness, it is a different kind of hard work.

Recommendation

Fake Famous is an enjoyable read. The attraction between Red and Koi moves the story forward as each provides growth for the other. The secondary characters are well-developed and add to the story line. The romance is sweet, and the coming-of-age story is insightful. This is the first novel I have read from Dana Davis, but it won’t be the last. A great novel for young teens to adults.

Lessons in Chemistry Book Review

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Chemistry 101

Lessons in Chemistry is a melon-colored book cover with a sketch of a female scientist with a No. 2 pencil sticking out a topknot.Lessons in Chemistry has been out for over a year and I am late to the party of fandom. A Christmas gift from one of my family members and one I treasure. The novel earns a place in the permanent home library. The delay in reading is attributed to the difficult year of 2023. So, I am very appreciative of the book as it is a great start to 2024.

Debut novelist Bonnie Garmus impresses with her wit and the depth of her writing. Depending on the individual reader’s experiences, the soul-searching Lessons in Chemistry will evoke feelings running the gamut from regret to resolve. And many stages in between.

Setting of Lessons in Chemistry

The United States of America, specifically the state of California, with a time period of the late 1950s, early 1960s serves as a backdrop of this delightful novel. Protagonist Elizabeth Zott is a chemist. Unheard of for the time period. Very few women earned science degrees in this era.

She is also a feminist. Author Bonnie Garmus does a great job painting a picture of the early years of women fighting for equality. Some of the obstacles and confrontations remain today. However, it is good to note the positive changes that we take for granted, such as wearing slacks to work and a narrowing wage gap.

Lessons in Chemistry Plot

Zott does not fit in. Yet she finds her soulmate in fellow chemist Calvin Evans. Evans is a misfit. Their relationship is told in retrospect. They share work, home and a dog with the appropriate name of 6:30. Zott is teaching the highly intelligent animal English. Not since Remarkably Bright Creatures, have I been so engaged with anthropomorphism.

Unfortunately, Zott ends up as an unwed single mother. And life begins.

Supporting Characters

Garmus uses a wide cast of characters to tell the story of individuals fulfilling their purpose. In addition to Zott, her daughter Madeline, Harriet Sloane and Miss Frask provide an array of positive female personalities. However, mean girls and women were a thing way back when.

Then there are the men.

Calvin Evans, Pine, Dr. Mason and the preacher Wakely line up on the good side while Donatti, the Bishop, Phil and a few others make you wonder why some men walk the earth. Lessons in Chemistry isn’t just about allowing women to reach their potential. Evil is present in both sexes and Garmus provides examples to ponder.

Entertaining

I found the book to be very entertaining with one particular chapter bringing forth loud laughter. A true paradox since the story itself is bittersweet. And yet I think that piece is intentional. As is the discussion on the role of religion between both Wakely and Evans and Wakely and Zott. Thus, Lessons in Chemistry provides food for thought.

Recommendation

I join many, many others in highly recommending Lessons in Chemistry. A few of us are fortunate enough to have our own E. Zott in the family. For the rest, Garmus has provided a glimpse of such a role model. All youth need encouragement and the chance to grow- physically, mentally and spiritually. This debut novel should be required reading somewhere at the high school level. However, senior year is too late.

Truly this book will be another long-term favorite much like Where the Crawdads Sing.

 

Dirty Thirty Book Review

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Latest in Stephanie Plum Series

Dirty Thirty Book Cover, fuchsia colored with gold necklace of the word thirty.Janet Evanovich’s latest Stephanie Plum novel, Dirty Thirty, is a treat for long-time series fans. The bad guys are really the good guys and plenty of sucker punches for characters and readers alike. Once again Evanovich leaves the reader hanging over a cliff waiting for yet another Plum novel.

Dirty Thirty Plot Line

The focus on this latest series entry is capturing skips. Stephanie, aided by the always colorful Lula, is after a wide range of bail jumpers. Some are dangerous and others hilarious. Furthermore, Stephanie is moonlighting for Martin Plover owner of Plover’s Jewelry store and an apparent victim. He was robbed twice. His request is for the recovery agent to also find his missing security guard.

As usual, things are complicated in the Burg. The missing security guard may have ties to the jewel thief, and they may or may not have the goods. Both these characters will be new to faithful readers.

Returning Characters

Dirty Thirty has a wide host of characters. At times I would mix the new characters up. Fortunately, the supporting cast remains constant-much like an old sitcom. Stephanie’s boyfriend Joe Morelli makes brief appearances but for the most part the romantic tension is sparked by Ranger.

Comic relief is provided by Lula, Grandma Mazur and Bob, Morelli’s shaggy dog. Evanovich is still golden with her quips and actions. Many smiles as well as laughs keep the reader engaged. Not to mention the double entendres all the way through Dirty Thirty. But even the foreshadowing will leave readers (like I was) surprised at the outcomes of the various plot lines. I will have a tough time waiting for the next in the series.

Recommendation for Dirty Thirty

I love this series and this book is no exception. However, I do not see it as a stand-alone. Dirty Thirty will be enjoyed the most by readers engaged in the series. Indeed, the biggest surprise will fly over the head of a reader brand new to the series. So, if you have read previous books featuring Stephanie Plum, this is a shouldn’t skip. If you are a novice, find the original-One for the Money and proceed from there.

Thanks for the entertainment, Ms. Evanovich.

Econogal’s Top Book Selections of 2023

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The Best of 2023

The top book selections of 2023 are broken into three categories, fiction, non-fiction and children’s books. The non-fiction selections were few and far between. And the top selection in the category actually hails from late December 2022. But recent events make it imperative to include.

As usual, the fiction list is the most difficult to produce as more than ten vie for just ten spots. And the children fiction list contains holiday specific titles so Christmas buying might not be appropriate. However, books for kids tend to stand the test of time. And at least one is appropriate for gift-giving this holiday season.

Non-Fiction Book Selections of 2023

My top selections in Non-Fiction:

  1. Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry
  2. Home Grown Herbs-A Complete Guide to Growing, Using and Enjoying More than 100 Herbs by Tammi Hartung
  3. Adrift: America in 100 Charts by Scott Galloway
  4. More Twist-and-Turn Bargello Quilts by Eileen Wright
  5. The Great Displacement: Climate Change and the Next American Migration by Jake Bittle

 

Of the above books, the most impactful was Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing. The reading will be even more poignant in light of the author’s recent death. I consider this an incredibly important read. Both Home Grown Herbs and More Twist-and-Turn Bargello Quilts have become handy reference guides for my hobbies. Clicking on each title will direct you to the individual review.

Children’s Book Selections of 2023

Again, click on the link for the individual review.

  1. Thank You, Omu by Oge Mora
  2. Con Pollo by Jimmy Fallon and Jennifer Lopez
  3. The Great Eggscape! By Jory John
  4. Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie by Jack Bishop
  5. Thanksgiving Here I Come by D.J. Steinberg

 

The Childrens’ books reviewed in 2023 are all geared toward the younger set. Con Pollo is a board book and the remaining titles are story books for preschoolers through early grade school. All tested and loved by my trio of grandkids.

Fiction Book Selections of 2023

The fiction category always serves as a challenge and the book selections for 2023 could have included top reads such as Livid by Patricia Cornwell. The following books moved me the most. Warning- a few are tear jerkers.

  1. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
  2. The Escape Artist by Jonathan Freedland
  3. Zero Days by Ruth Ware
  4. Exiles by Jane Harper
  5. Nightwork by Nora Roberts
  6. Dead Mountain by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
  7. Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea
  8. Bright Lights, Big Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
  9. The Recovery Agent by Janet Evanovich
  10. The Downstairs Neighbor by Helen Cooper

 

I made it through my personally horrendous year of 2023 by reading fiction. Some escape in front of the television but I turn to books. The fiction book selections of 2023 list includes a variety of genres. Each individual review can be accessed by clicking on the title of the book. I hope you can find something of interest as well as gift ideas on these lists.

Bright Lights, Big Christmas Book Review

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Christmas Time in the City

Cover of Bright Lights, Big City novel featuring outline of city buildings and a string of Christmas lights as a backdrop to title and author name.I found Mary Kay Andrews’ Bright Lights, Big Christmas on the new release table at my local library. The book is perfect for getting one in the mood for Christmas. A heart-warming story of friendship and new love, you won’t want to put it down. In fact, I read it cover to cover even though I started the novel just after supper.

Setting for Bright Lights, Big Christmas

The novel takes place in New York City, specifically the West Village. Each year for decades, the Tolliver family from North Carolina sells their Christmas trees in the same spot. Fixtures of the neighborhood from the Saturday after Thanksgiving until the trees are gone.

However, this year there is a late start. Old Jock Tolliver is ill. His somewhat estranged daughter, Kerry, is roped into helping her older brother. Her brother Murphy is like a stranger. Both are casualties of divorce, each raised by a different parent. However, Kerry and Murphy grudgingly form a bond in a neighborhood known for creating ties. Much of the story focuses on the pair discovering the talents of the other.

Storyline and Characters

Multiple challenges complicate this year’s sales. In addition to the late start, competition has moved in bringing pitfalls. But as the siblings overcome the obstacles thrown their way, they also forge new bonds.

Key to the story are the many residents of the street. Most know Murphy and befriend Kerry as well. Another thread to the tale is the budding relationship of Kerry and divorcee Patrick. He and ex-wife Gretchen move in and out of their flat while young son Austin stays put. Thus, providing stability for the precocious kid.

The final piece is the mysterious Heinz. Scruffy and possibly homeless, Heinz captures the devotion of Austin and the respect of Kerry. The cantankerous old man constructively critiques her artwork, pushing her to improve. Heinz disappears and everyone in the neighborhood contributes to the search.

Feel Good Novel

Bright Lights, Big Christmas is an uplifting novel perfect for reading during the Christmas season. Caring characters serve as a reminder the importance of family and friends. Andrews skill weaving plot and persona results in a page-turning novel sure to please both her long-time fans and those just discovering her writing. I highly recommend Bright Lights, Big Christmas.

 

Thank You, Omu! Book Review

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Learning the Importance of Unselfishness

Book cover of Thank You, Omu! Showing Omu holding a big bowl of stew.One of the recipients of the 2019 Caldecott Honor Book awards, Thank You, Omu! written and illustrated by Oge Mora tells the story of giving. Since sharing can be difficult for youngsters, this is a perfect book to illustrate the importance of unselfishness. Furthermore, readers will be entranced by the original artwork. The illustrations are collages of acrylic paint, printed materials and waxed pencils. Thank You, Omu! was Mora’s capstone project while a student at Rhode Island School of Design.

Plotline of Thank you, Omu!

Omu lives on the top floor of a tenement. She has a pot of delicious smelling stew simmering on the stovetop. As the fragrant aroma wafts out the window, Omu sits to read a book. Then a loud knock and a little boy from down the hall appears. Naturally, he asks about the savory smell.

Omu barely hesitates before offering to share the stew meant for her evening meal. This scene is repeated throughout the day as everyone from the mayor to the hot dog vendor stops by drawn by the delectable scent of the stew.

Even the youngest listener will not be surprised by the outcome-no more stew. And then the giver becomes the recipient.

Oge Mora

The author/illustrator Mora achieved success with her first picture book. In addition to the Caldecott Honor, she earned awards from Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent and Ezra Jack Keats. Her mixed media illustrations garner praise from multiple sources including The New York Times, The Boston Globe and Forbes.

In addition to Mora’s second release, Saturday, the gifted artist has illustrated a number of books including I’m From and Everybody in the Red Brick Building. Click here for her website.

Recommendation for Thank You, Omu!

I loved this story of giving and included it in my gifts of Thanksgiving books for the oldest grandchild. Even though the book is not holiday related, it carries a similar theme of sharing. This world we live in needs more books showing kindness and love. Thank You, Omu! Belongs in every library and is highly recommended.

Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie Book Review

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A Thanksgiving Celebration

America’s Test Kitchen produced Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie as a complement to their many cookbooks. This wonderful story geared towards young grade school kids was written by Jack Bishop with illustrations by Michelle Mee Nutter. Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie is a multi-layered tale rich with life lessons. And the story is a perfect fit with the message of Thanksgiving-food, family and friends gather to give thanks and share.

The Picky Eater

Peyton doesn’t consider herself picky, she is just rather particular about her food. For example, she doesn’t like her foods touching. Nor does she like certain colors of food. But most of all, she doesn’t like “gooey, or gummy, sticky or slimy, frosted or flaky…chunky or lumpy” foods. However, she’s decided to try one new food at Thanksgiving dinner–pie.

Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie

Open pages from the story book Peyton Picks a PieExpanding one’s food likes is the foundation of the story. However, Bishop kicks it up a notch. Peyton has a wide range of choices because all the dinner guests arrive with a different kind of pie. No cookie cutter pies and neither are the guests. The all-inclusive message is subtle and as rich as the desserts. So, while Peyton is having second thoughts about leaving her comfort zone, readers will glimpse the message of inclusiveness.

Multi-layered Message

At heart, the story is about trying new things. In this case new food. But the story and illustrations provide so much more. Harkening back to the first Thanksgiving, friends and family with different backgrounds and experiences are gathering together to celebrate another year. Food, family and friends is what Thanksgiving is all about.

Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie is author Jack Bishop’s first picture book. However, I hope the veteran cookbook author and editor, considers writing another. I love the wittiness of the story and Michelle Mee Nutter does an outstanding job with the paired drawings. Each pie coming in the front door made me hungry. As a bonus, the book includes the recipe for the pie Peyton decides to try. Consider giving this book to a youngster this Thanksgiving.

Illustration of a Thanksgiving gathering passing food around the dinner table.

Thanksgiving Books for Toddlers and Preschoolers

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Three Thanksgiving Books

Three Thanksgiving Books geared towards preschoolersI am on a reading jag. My current interest is Thanksgiving books for kids. The board books reviewed in the previous post are geared towards infants and toddlers. Now, this review showcases books geared for a slightly older age range of toddlers and preschoolers. All three are delightful storybooks geared for longer attention spans. And all three include interactive components.

Thanksgiving Here I Come

D.J. Steinberg pens the delightful aggregation of story-telling poems themed around Thanksgiving. The opening entry entitled The Biggest Turkey in the World is perfectly illustrated by Sara Palacios. Steinberg engages the audience with the comic prose of each story and all vary in length. The humor carries through Thanksgiving with titles including Wacky Friday and Turkey Again? Finally, the book includes a page of stickers.

Pete the Cat-The First Thanksgiving

Pete the Cat lovers will delight in this contribution to Thanksgiving books. Kimberly and James Dean mix traditional lore into a lift-the-flap book. So, a story highlighting Pete’s role as a pilgrim in the school Thanksgiving play is also an early history lesson. I found the presentation of historical facts well done. Kids will delight in discovering the illustrations hiding behind each flap. At the end, Pete and his family share how they are thankful.

Thanks for Thanksgiving

Finally, Thanks for Thanksgiving is the last of the three Thanksgiving books. Julie Markes writes the simple story of thankfulness. And I was enchanted by the beautiful illustrations of Doris Barrette. The details bring the pictures to life. Plus, the final page records what the reader is thankful for in successive years. Unlike the previous two books, Thanks for Thanksgiving is not part of a series.

My youngest was upper grade school when this delightful book was published. So, this 2004 book focusing on gratitude is new to me. I am thankful for the grandkids-so many books to discover! Unsurprisingly, I highly recommend this trio of Thanksgiving books geared toward toddlers and preschoolers.

Thanks for Playdates

Thanks For School

Two Board Books for Thanksgiving

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Celebrating Thanksgiving with Books

Thanksgiving display with two board books, cornucopia and ceramic figures of Pilgrims and Indians.I love giving books to the little ones and here are two board books for giving this Thanksgiving. The first is You’re My Little Cutie Pie by Nicola Edwards with illustrations by Natalie Marshall. The pair have released a series of books which I classify as peek-a-boo instead of lift-the-flap.

The second book is Where is Baby’s Turkey by Karen Katz which is a traditional lift-the-flap board book. These two board books are perfect for the chubby fingers of the sixteen-month-old in the family. And they celebrate one of my favorite holidays. Thanksgiving is about family.

You’re My Little Cutie Pie

At first glance, I thought You’re My Little Cutie Pie was the similarly titled You’re My Little Pumpkin Pie. However, the latter-a Halloween book- was still on display. Both books feature fall-themed covers, however the Cutie Pie version features the squash as a pie topped with whipped cream.

Rhyme and cadence make these books by Edwards favorite bedtime books. Plus, the cut-outs highlighting the raised illustrations pull the prose together as well. Marshall’s artwork is perfect for the little ones. Even though this book will go to the youngest, I am sure the toddler and preschooler will also enjoy the Thanksgiving themed book.

Where is Baby’s Turkey?

Karen Katz writes a delightful tale of a baby searching for his toy turkey on Thanksgiving morning. This lift-the-flap book reveals all the delightful “ingredients” which comprise the traditions of the day while hunting for the plush toy. My grandchild will delight in lifting the flaps and discovering the clever illustrations. This is the first Katz board book I have read.

Two Board Books

Both of these Thanksgiving themed board books are sure to delight the youngsters in your family. The two board books have different approaches to entertaining the reader. The pages of You’re My Little Cutie Pie have cutouts that allow the reader to peak ahead. The raised area peaking through is the focus of the rhyme for those pages.

Where is Baby’s Turkey has a simple plot aided by the lift-the-flap technique. In this release, the flaps are quite sturdy although supervision of young children is still a good idea. These two board books will make a great addition to the little guy’s home library. I can’t wait to read them to him!

Sanibel Flats Book Review

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Action Adventure Series

Three paperback books including Sanibel Flats by Randy Wayne White

Randy Wayne White penned Sanibel Flats over thirty years ago. This first in a long series is an action adventure featuring Doc Ford as an ex-operative returning home to focus on marine biology. His hopes for a quiet life are shattered by a request from an old high school buddy. The author creates plausibility for a return to action along with a gorgeous description of Florida’s barrier islands.

Key Characters Introduced

To be honest, I have read other entries in this series out of order. And I enjoyed them without the back story. However, if you have not read any of White’s novels, I suggest you begin with this one. He does an outstanding job of building character. After reading Sanibel Flats, I realize the depth of the various personalities throughout the series. And I understand how the serious character of Doc Ford and the laid-back hippie Tomlinson (one of my favorites) become so tight.

Furthermore, the author gives you a glimpse of Doc Ford’s double-standard thinking with respect to love interests. Every character needs a flaw. And each also needs hope.

Plot of Sanibel Flats

Doc Ford is newly returned to Sanibel Island. He is contacted by his long-ago best friend for help. Apparently, high school buddy, Rafe Hollins, kidnapped his son from a drunken druggie ex-wife only for the boy to be kidnapped by a Central American crime lord. Then Ford finds Hollins dead and knows rescuing 8-year-old Jake Hollins is his duty.

Convincing fellow marina dweller Tomlinson to come to the jungles of Central America is easy. And the action adventure begins. Moreover, the author introduces the many grey areas of a moral life. Sanibel Flats is not a novel for those who see the world as black and white. However, good and evil are easy to decipher.

A Descriptive Sanibel Flats

White excels at bringing locales to life. The descriptions of coastal Florida ring true for this former inhabitant. Thus, his jungle scenes of Central and South America are given credence. If a few readers get bogged down by the settings, action awaits at the turn of a page.

Sanibel Flats does not shield one from descriptions of violence and gore. Between the gunfights and the bedroom scenes, this book belongs in the hands of a mature audience. Since the book takes place in an area known for growing drugs, there are those who may find that objectionable as well. However, the story of rescue from a foreign locale without military aid merits the above-mentioned scenes.

Recommendation

The Doc Ford series is pure entertainment with moralism thrown in. The characters are human and very relatable. While I may not read the entire series as my spouse has, I know Sanibel Flats will not be the last. However, I do think I will go back and read the series in order.

 

Save What’s Left Book Review

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Debut Novel

Book cover of Save What's Left depicting a small beach house next to a cubical McMansion.The debut novel, Save What’s Left by Elizabeth Castellano is hard to pigeonhole. The story is set in a beach town and yet more than a summer beach novel. The main character, Kathleen Deane, is a newly retired, middle-aged woman recovering from the shock of being dumped after thirty years of marriage.

Candidly, the protagonist lets the reader know that the marriage wasn’t bad but it wasn’t good either. So, after decades of muddling through life, her husband Tom decides to travel the world to discover the meaning of life.

Meanwhile, Kathleen decides a change of scenery will get her life back on track. She buys a beach house. Sight unseen except through a grainy video. Then the “fun” begins. Environmental activism stirs the growth of the lead character as she struggles to reshape her own identity.

Many Levels of Save What’s Left

The characters in Save What’s Left were quite unique. Some were likeable. And a few were grating. However, most perplexing is Kathleen. She becomes a strident advocate to save what’s left of the natural beachscape. Thus, much of the story is told through her numerous complaint letters concerning the McMansion materializing just outside the window of her humble home.

Castellano does justice to this theme of urban growth crowding out natural landscape in former rural areas. So, those from coastal areas grasp the dilemma immediately. Furthermore, the activism of the lead character and the roadblocks she encounters ring with truth.

Plot

Save What’s Left does have a storyline. Local corruption circumvents covenants protecting the seashore. Furthermore, the misconduct goes beyond the boardroom complicating Kathleen’s advocacy. And involving secondary characters important to the growth of the protagonist. Tangling matters more, Tom reappears. Their tenuous relationship weaves its’ way into the plot. Tom’s character is quite interesting.

Recommendation for Save What’s Left

I picked up Elizabeth Castellano’s novel at the bookstore for multiple reasons. First, the name jumped out at me. One of my favorite East Coast based jockeys shares the same surname. (Highly doubtful they are related, but one never knows.) Then, the fact it was a debut novel. I love giving new authors support. Finally, the cover design. A small beach house much like I grew up in juxtaposed with a sugar cubed McMansion.

I didn’t quite like a few of the characters, nor the plot structure. The numerous complaint letters often interrupted the action flow. (However, the letters are integral to the story.) Yet I could not put the book down! A key win for Ms. Castellano. I can’t wait to see what she publishes next.

 

Dead Mountain Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

New Release

Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child pen a new winner in the 2023 release Dead Mountain. The latest in the Nora Kelly series involves a cold case mystery.  How did nine veteran climbers perish under unusual circumstances? Of course, Halloween as the date of the event adds to the eeriness.  Furthermore, only six bodies were recovered in the aftermath.

For those unfamiliar with the series, Dr. Kelly is an archaeologist frequently contacted by young FBI agent Corrie Swanson to either give expert opinion or handle ancient finds uncovered during investigations. Previously, the two teamed up in several Preston & Child novels including The Scorpion’s Tail. Both women are strong likeable characters. Neither gives up until the truth is found.

Dead Mountain- A Cold Case Never Closed

Two young men stumble over human remains inside a cave. In the process of verifying the remains as ancient, Kelly and Swanson stumble upon more skeletons. But these remains were much younger. Thus, the Dead Mountain case becomes active once again.

The story line is actioned packed. The FBI takes a lot of heat for never discovering the truth from the 2008 event. Backstories of the families and former agents create a nice subplot. Additionally, Dr. Kelly’s brother Skip lands in hot water once again. This subplot mostly serves to show the corruptness of Sheriff Hawley. The bones were discovered in his county. To be honest, Skip is a character that grates on one’s nerves, even if he’s with the good guys.

Top Secret Bunker

At the heart of the mystery is a secret bunker originally built to protect President Eisenhauer. Agent Swanson surmises the scared hikers were headed for the safety of the bunker. Perhaps the remains of the still missing final member of the expedition will be found there. Unfortunately, she cannot gain access. Instead, she is ordered to cease and desist with the investigation. Furthermore, she is ordered to pretend to continue investigating. Naturally this does goes against her moral compass.

So, Agent Swanson pushes on with the help of Dr. Kelly. They discover the missing hiker and his journals and camera-only to be ambushed. Fortunately, Swanson’s new mentor Agent Sharp and Sheriff Watts arrive just in time. Watts reveals his feelings for Swanson adding just the right touch of romance for the end.

Terrific Duo

Preston & Child the talented duo behind Dead Mountain are prolific authors. And they work well as a team. Each also writes solo books. Both have a long list of impressive credentials. So, it is not surprising how well researched their books are. This is important to me because nothing encourages me to stop reading a book more than inaccurate details.

Praise for this duo is found in the previous blog posts Library Book Sale and City of Endless Night. To be honest I have read more of Mr. Child’s work since supernatural thrillers are often read in this household. For anyone with a non-fiction preference, Mr. Preston brings fine detail to all of his work. Needless to say, I enjoyed Dead Mountain and highly recommend this novel.

 

The Recovery Agent Book Review

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New Evanovich Series

I first encountered recovery agent Gabriela Rose in Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series release Going Rogue. I was delighted to spot the book on the new release table at my local library. Gabriela Rose promises to be a character worthy of a spin-off series. As the first in the sequence, The Recovery Agent proves delightful with strong characters able to support a new direction for Evanovich’s writing.

Plot of The Recovery Agent

Altruism is the motive for finding hidden treasure. In a straightforward plot, Gabriela Rose and ex-husband Rafer Jones crisscross the continents of North and South America. Encountering danger and dangerous people, the two remain true to the idea of saving their hometown, Scoon, South Carolina with any found fortune. Devastated by a hurricane, Scoon needs rebuilding. Naturally, opportunistic developers are swooping down on the seaside hamlet creating a time crunch. Can Gabriela and Rafer set aside differences for a shared goal?

Since action scenes dominate Evanovich novels, readers will find plenty of scenes reminiscent of the type of adventure found by swashbucklers on screen as well as in print. Ms. Rose is quite skilled and delightfully unique from many of author Evanovich’s previous heroines. The quick-thinking protagonist more than her carries own weight. However, Mr. Jones does get to play the role of the rescuer upon occasion. (And sometimes he needs rescuing.)

Secondary Characters

One of Evanovich’s greatest talents is fleshing out secondary characters. She creates a strong supporting cast with The Recovery Agent. Indeed, the seriousness of the primary character is complemented by the (sometimes) unintended humor of those surrounding her.

Best of all, bad and evil are differentiated. Lots of grey areas in The Recovery Agent. Drug dealers are favored over psychopaths. Readers can decide just how often to look the other way, much like Gabriela Rose must.

Chemistry in The Recovery Agent

True to Evanovich form, the novel includes romance. So, sparks fly between the exes. And the two seem more compatible than most. Perhaps they married too young. Furthermore, the reader keeps wondering if or when something will happen. Just the right amount of tension.

Unlike recent attempts at new series, Evanovich penned this refreshing story alone. Her distinctive style makes The Recovery Agent a fun book to read. I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful story with appealing characters.

Exiles Book Review

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Cold Case

Australian author Jane Harper’s 2022 release Exiles once again features federal investigator Aaron Falk. However, in this recent release financial gain does not seem to factor into the disappearance of Kim Gillespie.

The cold case comes to the forefront as the one-year anniversary arrives and a teenager is desperate to locate her missing mom. But Falk has more than one motive for returning to the Maralee Valley Festival. In addition to helping long-time friend Greg Raco and his family find their missing relative, Falk seeks to reconnect with the festival director, a widow still grieving the unexpected loss of her husband-missing and then found dead.

Are the two cases related?

Life’s Exiles

Harper instills great meaning in her titles and Exiles is true to form. Readers of the Aaron Falk series know the background to his ‘exiles’ status. However, the missing mother becomes an exile from her own family. Estrangement from family and friends creates its own form of aloneness. Thus, suicide is a plausible outcome.

However, Harper writes murder mysteries. So, Falk sets out to find the truth behind the disappearance. And the truth should give anyone experiencing alienation from family members great pause. Does that family member really want severed ties? In Gillespie’s case the answer was no. But too often family are blind to reality.

Recommendation for Exiles

Since Jane Harper has been a favorite ever since reading The Dry, naturally I enjoyed Exiles. However, for new readers, her writing style is one that unwinds at a measured pace. The action is tempered by the protagonist’s point of view as well as provoking dialogue and thoughtful character development.

The best part of Harper’s writing are the twists and turns of the plot and yet after the reveal everything falls in place. No loose threads from this talented author. Plus, as alluded to above, Jane Harper gives the reader ‘something’ to think about long after closing the book. I highly recommend Exiles with a caveat that her message may leave anyone with an estranged family member more than just a bit uncomfortable.

 

The Sweet Goodbye Book Review

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Danny Barrett Series

Ron Corbett writes the Danny Barrett series and The Sweet Goodbye is the 2022 release featuring the undercover man. The setting is the area surrounding the North Woods of Maine. Long forgotten, has-been mill towns and the people struggling to make a living in a changed world. Now, the easiest way to make money is making and distributing illegal drugs. And then laundering the cash.

Danny Barrett is working undercover as a tree marker. A job learned from growing up in Michigan. His knowledge saves him. But will he figure it all out before it is too late?

Good Guys and Bad Guys

It is hard to tell the good from the bad in The Sweet Goodbye. Even harder to define competence among the authorities. A major SNAFU through and through, with a story to touch the heart of the most hardened FBI agents.

Beau Lafontaine is the lead bad guy. Drug runner extraordinaire with his only soft spot, Cousin Pearl, a diner waitress and a key character in the story. Beau is in business with Travis and Tucker Lee. His drug money is laundered through their timber company. Neither brother is stellar in character, one is a glutton and the other a drunk. All become implicated in the murder of a banker.

In The Sweet Goodbye, Pearl is a long-standing mistress of Travis Lee. The relationship of the hard-working waitress and the drunken lawyer dates to their teenage years. And his marriage to Amanda Lee.

Danny Barrett is undercover trying to find evidence to convict the Lee brothers as well as their handler. He answers to two other Feds. Special Agent Paul Linton is ambitious and angling for a management spot in Boston and the legendary FBI agent Jim Flanagan. Complicating the action, the two senior agents are at odds with each other.

The Sting of The Sweet Goodbye

Barrett’s role expands from surveillance to setting up a sting. But everything backfires as bad guys drop like flies. Before long the authorities only have Pearl and Travis to pin all the charges on. Neither seem capable of being a mastermind. But someone needs to pay. After all, the FBI has been building a case for the better part of a year.

Flannagan, Linton and Barrett press each of the lovers to turn on the other. In the end, love conquers all.

Recommendation for The Sweet Goodbye

This murder mystery was anything but cozy. And the ending has a bit of an Agatha Christie type twist. A few things are not spelled out or were missed by this reader. Most notably, how and why Amanda Lee disappears. Yet The Sweet Goodbye is truly a page-turner and I couldn’t put it down, stopping only to eat. Upon finishing, I put it atop my husband’s pile of to be read books, I enjoyed the characters, the plot, the scenery…the everything! Find a copy and enjoy this suspenseful novel.

Homegrown Herbs

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Gold Standard Garden Book

Book Homegrown Herbs for sale at Mel's MillsOn my recent trip to Cañon City, I bought Tammi Hartung’s Homegrown Herbs: A Complete Guide to Growing, Using and Enjoying More than 100 Herbs from Mel’s Mills. The book, most recently published in 2011, is an excellent choice for serious gardeners wanting a complete resource manual on herbs.

Tammi Hartung

Ms. Hartung takes the reader through the process of establishing an herb garden. The ten chapters cover everything from soil testing and plant propagation to cooking and concocting medicinal and personal care herbal recipes. Even though I have been gardening for decades, I learned several new things from this book. For example, growing rosemary from seed has eluded me. But I am not the only one. Apparently, the best method for propagating this essential herb is with cuttings.

Homegrown Herbs Layout

The book emphasizes the need to plant herbs with similar needs close together. An almost four page guide details preferred location and growing climate. Both common and Latin names are provided. Furthermore, types of gardens are discussed ranging from apothecary to food and subdividing into themes.

Multiple guides such as for the above are found throughout the chapters. The one on propagation methods was a favorite. Finally, Chapter 10 is a listing from A to Z of every herb one could think of. Each herbal listing provides plant traits, companion planting, medicinal and/or culinary use and harvesting tips among other facts.

Beautiful Photos

Perhaps the best part of Homegrown Herbs is the beautiful, inspirational photos. (Although the recipes are a close second.) In addition to showcasing entire gardens, the photos allow for individual identification of plants, pests and even diseases. Plus the photos in Homegrown Herbs illustrate techniques such as spreading straw across the garden.

Growing Herbs

Gardening is a demanding exercise. But in my experience herbs are a bit easier than vegetables. My dill forest on the back patio self-seeds every year. Some would consider this a weed patch but we love the smell and use the dill in many of our dishes. Not to mention their necessity in canning pickles.

Other herbs in my garden are perennials such as oregano, sage, horseradish and horehound. Armed with Ms. Hartung’s Homegrown Herbs, I am anxious to try Gotu Kola, chamomile and catnip. This wonderful resource guide will be invaluable to my efforts. Serious gardeners need to add this book to their home library.

Homegrown Herbs-Dill

Meg & Jo

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Remake of a Book

Virginia Kantra’s Meg & Jo is a contemporary re-write of the classic Little Women. Same character names but key differences in the characters. Especially in the treatment of the parents. There are many other parts of the book that not just stray but totally ignore the original. So, why keep the character names? I am not sure. But I did enjoy the romance between Jo and Eric as well as the relationship between Meg and her husband. And if movies can have remakes, why not books?

Focus on Meg & Jo

True to the original, Kantra focuses on the oldest of the sisters. Meg is a young mother struggling to adjust to her new identity. Jo is working in New York City in the restaurant business. The contemporary relationship is quite strong. Both make sacrifices to support their mother through her crisis.

Beth & Amy

The younger two sisters play a much different role in the modernized Meg & Jo. For starters, Beth lives to adulthood. Her character is as heartwarming as expected. Plus, she is successful. And Amy’s character isn’t as spoiled (nor as developed by the author.)

Greatest Change

The treatment of the character of Meg & Jo’s father was quite original in interpretation. He leaves a lot to be desired in the contemporary version. Kantra does not portray him as a military hero. Instead, his commitment to the shell-shocked returning men from the Mideast destroys his marriage. He fails to support his wife in her time of need.

If there was a similar message in Little Women, I missed it each time I read the book.

Recommendation for Meg & Jo

I enjoyed reading this contemporary version of an old favorite. And I am quite happy I stumbled upon it on the “New” table at my hometown library. Perhaps the name served its’ purpose as I instantly recognized and connected with the title. However, this is not a linear remake. The theme varies from the original. Kantra emphasizes the concept that duty begins at home. I concur. Look for a copy in your library.

The Great Displacement Book Review

Posted on by Econogal

Climate Change

Climate change is the current topic of the day and The Great Displacement: Climate Change And The Next American Migration certainly addresses related factors. Jake Bittle concentrates on the impact natural disasters have on the world today. His work is well annotated, which is always a good sign. But his hands-on knowledge of at least one subject is lacking. Multiple statements about the cattle industry were a bit off. So, this reader wonders what other factors may not be quite accurate.

Layout for The Great Displacement

The first seven chapters of the text visit various parts of the United States impacted by natural disasters linked to climate change. The information provided was both interesting and concerning. Especially his description of the Florida Keys which I have not visited since the early 2000’s, many years prior to the destructive force of Hurricane Irma.

However, I can easily identify with Bittle’s descriptions and points. The numerous tidepools and marshes I grew up with along the Atlantic Coast have been replaced by McMansions. Certainly, I can agree and understand the cause and effect the author lays out.

Flooding

The Great Displacement focuses a good deal on the problems of flooding the country is experiencing. Bittle covers both coastal and inland flooding and focuses on the damage to affordable housing. His points make sense. New home buyers and lower income areas suffer the most. Those with more experience and more wealth can mitigate the losses from climate change influenced natural disasters.

Fire

Most interesting to me were the fire disasters of the Western states. High winds are capricious. Mitigation must be done well in advance and when towns burn down, lower and-middle-income families do struggle more to find replacement for housing. I felt like the author did an outstanding job showing the whys and hows in this section.

Drought

The topic of drought, including drought-stricken Pinal County, Arizona bothered me a bit. I agree that drought is a big part of climate change. For the first time in many years, I am not living in drought conditions. And I know drought can and most likely will return. So, I understand the topic. Water rights are a complex matter. Perhaps too difficult for just one chapter. And truthfully, I did not grasp the concept of owning water before I moved west from the East Coast.

Furthermore, I live in a region that produces beef. The author and the interviewee in Arizona present the idea that cattle can take care of themselves on pasture year-round. Nothing could be farther from the truth. At best a rancher could hope for six months of grazing and that is from an area receiving 15 inches of annual rainfall. Furthermore, I would like to see the “…footage of factory farms that house thousands of cows or chickens in a single sweltering room…” (p. 270.) Chickens…yes. Thousands of cows in one room? Maybe at the processing plant-but at that point the cattle are becoming hamburger.

Solutions From The Great Displacement

Book Cover of The Great Displacement black background with chunks from a US Map distributed across.My motivation for buying the text was to see what solutions were offered as well as where migration would lead to. What will happen to the industries operating in areas suffering the most from climate change? Will the northern states become temperate enough? Or will climate change bring even colder winters? These questions and many more can’t be answered now. The author does address them to a certain extent. Furthermore, his analysis on the insurance systems addressing both fire and flood were spot on. Current rules and regulations compound the problem.

Climate change is a controversial subject. For the most part, The Great Displacement covers the topic fairly. But naturally, with few answers to share. No one can see into the future. Yet, we need to address present concerns so the future will include a habitable planet for our children’s children.

This book is worth reading and discussing.

 

 

Con Pollo Book Review

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Bilingual Books

Book cover of Con Pollo Bold red print with a chicken for the first "o"Con Pollo is a bilingual story book penned by Jimmy Fallon and Jenifer Lopez and illustrated by Andrea Campos. It is a perfect find for a child who is being raised bilingual. Such as my grandson who just turned one. Naturally, books are the go-to gift for this little guy born much earlier than expected. However, he is catching up quickly due to his parents’ love, persistence, and dedication. His little book collection includes those written in English, Spanish and a handful like Con Pollo which blend the two languages.

Vocabulary Building

In addition to the rhyming text, the authors present simple examples of vocabulary building. For example, soccer and futbol, dancing and bailar. This exposes children outside of bilingual households to other languages in a fun way. And the character of Con Pollo is perfect to interest the little ones.

A Day in the Life of Con Pollo

As a storybook, Con Pollo is geared toward the English-Spanish translations versus a plot. But there is an attempt to appeal to a toddler’s sense of an active day. So, the story presents lots of playtime, trips to school, store and the biblioteca and of course at the end of a long day-bedtime. And best of all, the authors pop out a surprise at the end of the book. Kids love surprises.

Illustrations

I love the style of illustration for Con Pollo. The simple drawing of Pollo will appeal to the minimalists in the crowd. And she will be very easy to identify if the authors find time in their busy lives to write another. As an illustrator, Campos reminds me of Charles Schultz. Simple strokes creating complex characters. I concur with this Forbes article that Andrea Campos has quite a future in front of her.

My Recommendation

Con Pollo is a cute book. At heart, the authors are introducing Spanish vocabulary at a children’s interest level. Pollo, as the main character, lives the way children used to, playing all day long. A fun book for both public and private libraries to acquire.

Fun at the Biblioteca/Library

Page of Con Pollo illustrating a little chicken at the biblioteca

Zero Days Book Review

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Another Winner from Ruth Ware

Book Cover of Zero Days white background with large print for title and author nameRuth Ware highlights the dangers of software hacking in her latest suspense novel Zero Days. The term represents the release of hidden malware or spyware in seemingly innocent apps or programs. But the heart of the story is the anguished resilience of the protagonist and her quest to find her husband’s attacker.

Jacintha “Jack” Cross is testing the onsite security of a company by breaking into headquarters, penetrating through physical barriers. Each step of the way, husband Gabe guides her via earpiece as he tries breaking into the security systems network from the safety of their home. In reality, Jack is in the safer spot.

Things go wrong for the “pen” testers. Horribly wrong.

Compelling Heroine

Jack comes to life through Ware’s writing. Her backstory is divulged through action and dialogue. She has misgivings about the police from past experience. So, Jack becomes a fugitive. On the run she is mistrustful of strangers and cut-off from family. But turning to a friend of Gabe’s helps her in her push to find information before Zero Days commences. Helps and hurts. In the end she must rely on her instincts.

Zero Days as Backdrop

The author uses the dark web and the threat of hidden code in software to move the plot forward. Jack does not have the same computer hacking skills as her husband. So, she unravels the mystery on her terms; breaking and entering along with some misdirection.

However, Jack is also battling both emotional distress and a physical injury. So, her race against time brings a sense of heightened tension to the reader. And creates empathy for the character.

Supporting Characters

Most of the book focuses on Jack and her relationship with Gabe. But minor characters pop up to aid or hinder Jack as she counts down each day to the arrival of Zero Days. As time passes, the secondary characters actions and dialogue make it clear to the reader that Jack is living on borrowed time. Will she succeed before her body gives out?

Recommendation for Zero Days

Ruth Ware is an excellent writer. Zero Days is quite different from The Woman in Cabin 10, but every bit as compelling. Readers looking for suspense novels featuring strong female leads can’t go wrong with this 2023 release from Ware. Find a copy and enjoy!

 

The Downstairs Neighbor Book Review

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Secrets

The danger of keeping secrets drives the plot(s) of The Downstairs Neighbor. British author Helen Cooper weaves multiple story lines into one suspenseful search for a missing teenager. Freya Harlow has disappeared without much to go on. The story spins forward with a simple piece of dialogue-an officer asking if either parent has enemies. Both Paul and Steph are shaken by the question as both have buried their respective pasts.

The Harlow’s live above two other apartments. Emma has her own past to hide including the recent departure of Zeb. The young man many believe is her partner, is her son, just fifteen years her junior.

In the basement, nurse Vicky and husband Chris live unhappily. His tie to the missing girl is the strongest of the downstairs neighbors. As her driving instructor, he was the last to see Freya alive.

Layout of Downstairs Neighbor

Cooper uses all of the major players to tell the story. The rotation between characters draws the readers into the multi-faceted plot. The individual narratives leave one hanging, wanting more details of the current thread. Yet, each intrigue pulls the plot forward.

Furthermore, the secrets the characters carry create a need to uncover the truth. Adding to the mystery is a storyline from twenty-five years ago. The theme is strongest in Kate’s narrative as a parent’s desire to protect her child from the truth takes on horrendous consequences. But who is Kate?

Rebellious Teens

Freya and downstairs neighbor Zeb are both rebellious teens. On the cusp of adulthood, neither can understand the complexities of life. They have reached the age where truth is shrouded in grey. And so, the disappearance of Freya is muddied by the secrets of her parents and of each of the downstairs neighbors.

Recommendation for The Downstairs Neighbor

I thoroughly enjoyed The Downstairs Neighbor. And any American reader will have no trouble absorbing the British elements of the story. This suspenseful book is for anyone high school aged and up who enjoys mysteries.

Star Flight Book Review

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A Little Bit of Romance and a Whole Lot of Suspense

Star Flight, an intriguing suspense novel from Phyllis A. Whitney was published thirty years ago. Somehow, I missed it then and in all the years since.  Because Whitney penned seventy novels in her lifetime, there may be others I have yet to discover. She is a master in the genre of romantic suspense.

Setting of Star Flight

Chimney Rock in North Carolina is the setting for the novel. The area is beautiful, yet the rugged outcropping adds a sense of danger, at least for those with a fear of heights. Whitney’s description of the land and waters around this popular Appalachian destination will stir memories of past visitors and ignite interest in those who have yet to visit.

The history of the area serves as fictional background. A sensational setting for modern day movies could easily have attracted long ago Hollywood magnates. Reality gives plausibility to all novels.

Protagonist

Lauren Castle travels to Lake Lure and the Chimney Rock area for closure. Deaths of both her husband and maternal grandmother occurred in the vicinity separated by generations. She discovers neither one was accidental. And her quest to find the truth places her in danger.

But another draw to the area is a long-ago love, Gordon Heath. Years ago, she chose the safe path and still regrets the decision. Lauren seeks a second chance.

A further complication is the aging grandfather who chose to remain with his wife instead of leaving with the mistress pregnant with his child. The complexities of the various relationships play a large part in complicating Lauren’s search for the truth.

Plot of Star Flight

Star Flight is the story of a long-ago Lover’s Triangle, two beautiful women vying for the attention of a Hollywood Star. Adulation, from secondary characters, complicates untangling the past as memories are compromised by loyalties. The author throws in otherworldly occurrences adding mystery and pushing the readers suspension of disbelief. Recent stirrings of alien life in the press gives the novel a timeliness often lost in modern fiction.

Recommendation

Star Flight is the title of several novels, so including Phyllis Whitney is imperative in an online search. The book is still available in ebook form as well as on sites such as Etsy and Amazon. Perhaps libraries still have copies as well. I found this copy as I was inventorying the personal library of my late parents. Still puzzled as to how I could have missed it for the last thirty years, I enjoyed a few hours of escape from reality with a favorite author not read in a long time.