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I am drawn to nonfiction and fiction about the first half of the twentieth century for some reason, and in particular World War II. "The German Woman" is a well-written haunting novel centered on an English nurse (Kate) married to a German doctor who finds herself in a ragtag hospital in eastern Germany during World War I. She and her husband are accused of being spies for the Russians, so the only choice is to try to get to safety. Some of the most horrific descriptions of warfare and utter cruelty almost had me stop reading at times. As the story moves beyond the escape from the horror to Kate settling in London, it takes a different turn. It is the time of World War II. Kate gradually becomes friends with Claus, a filmmaker and an American with Irish and German roots, who is fascinated by her. Their lives, and their relationship, amidst the Nazi bombings of London, are complex and troubling. Griner places you right inside this world so effectively that for the first time I could imagine the horror felt by Londoners as air raid sirens blasted and the Nazis attacked from the skies. I loved this book, and could not put it down. In fact, I will re-read "The German Woman" in a few years (knowing, the second time, that it is ok to gloss over some of the scenes of gut-wrenching cruelty). I will definitely read more of Griner's works, though not at night right before I go to sleep. "Just saying."

I am always intrigued by music and how it originates in people. Musicians like Mozart seemed to have a muse feeding them notes, chord patterns, melodies, and beauty. I read this book also to see what parts of the brain are involved in the creation of music. It is interesting - filled with anecdotes on prodigies, how people with certain ailments (like Parkinson's) are helped with music, the result of brain injuries with respect to musical skills, and so forth. I'm not sure I came away with anything to answer my query other than some knowledge of the parts of the brain involved, but nevertheless it's a book that was worthy of my time.

This review is based on reading the book, not listening to the CD.I am always intrigued by music and how it originates in people. Musicians like Mozart seemed to have a muse feeding them notes, chord patterns, melodies, and beauty. I read this book also to see what parts of the brain are involved in the creation of music. It is interesting - filled with anecdotes on prodigies, how people with certain ailments (like Parkinson's) are helped with music, the result of brain injuries with respect to musical skills, and so forth. I'm not sure I came away with anything to answer my query other than some knowledge of the parts of the brain involved, but nevertheless it's a book that was worthy of my time.

I am always intrigued by music and how it originates in people. Musicians like Mozart seemed to have a muse feeding them notes, chord patterns, melodies, and beauty. I read this book also to see what parts of the brain are involved in the creation of music. It is interesting - filled with anecdotes on prodigies, how people with certain ailments (like Parkinson's) are helped with music, the result of brain injuries with respect to musical skills, and so forth. I'm not sure I came away with anything to answer my query other than some knowledge of the parts of the brain involved, but nevertheless it's a book that was worthy of my time.

I am always intrigued by music and how it originates in people. Musicians like Mozart seemed to have a muse feeding them notes, chord patterns, melodies, and beauty. I read this book also to see what parts of the brain are involved in the creation of music. It is interesting - filled with anecdotes on prodigies, how people with certain ailments (like Parkinson's) are helped with music, the result of brain injuries with respect to musical skills, and so forth. I'm not sure I came away with anything to answer my query other than some knowledge of the parts of the brain involved, but nevertheless it's a book that was worthy of my time.

I read Jeffrey Archer books when I just want to be lightly entertained. He tells a good story, and the Clifton Chronicles have been an interesting look over decades at the Barrington family and all of those connected to it. I liked the previous book, "Sins of the Father," better, in part because of parts of the story that took place in New York City and a nearby prison. It's a nice trip through historical events as well (which I enjoy since I read a lot of nonfiction and seem to prefer reading about the first half of the twentieth century for some reason). It's a quick read and, yes, there's another book coming to continue this saga.

Sometimes I just need to laugh. I read a few reviews of this book and figured it might allow me to do so. Did it ever! Jenny's writing is crisp, chatty, and communicates as if she's sharing with you on the phone or over coffee at her kitchen table. Her early years were unique yet years many of us can relate to as well (those who were shy, shunned, teased). Experiences with a taxidermist father and tolerant mother are peculiar yet there is a lot of love there. Her difficulties with personal issues were turned into insightful and often LOL stories. It's amazing to me always to read of the lives of those who rose above difficulties with a laugh. For those with sensitivity to some raunchiness, well... be prepared. The only complaint - I read it too quickly!

Sometimes I just need to laugh. I read a few reviews of this book and figured it might allow me to do so. Did it ever! Jenny's writing is crisp, chatty, and communicates as if she's sharing with you on the phone or over coffee at her kitchen table. Her early years were unique yet years many of us can relate to as well (those who were shy, shunned, teased). Experiences with a taxidermist father and tolerant mother are peculiar yet there is a lot of love there. Her difficulties with personal issues were turned into insightful and often LOL stories. It's amazing to me always to read of the lives of those who rose above difficulties with a laugh. For those with sensitivity to some raunchiness, well... be prepared. The only complaint - I read it too quickly!

It isn't surprising that battles of today (preserving nature versus corporate profits, manipulating government processes, controlling government through lobbying) have taken place throughout American history. But after the past few years of observing our stagnant legislative branch in particular, it has been fascinating to look back a century at times of the first Roosevelt president and his battle to open up nature to the people. This fascinating book by Timothy Egan takes us into the world of people who fought for the purity of the national forests. We learn about John Muir's influence on Teddy Roosevelt, the intriguing personality of Gifford Pinchot, and the assortment of people settling in the deep forests of Idaho, Montana and Washington. The early forest rangers were mostly hated by the people and many in the government, and it is a testament to Pinchot and others that the National Forest Service ever got off the ground. A massive fire in 1910 showed how important forest rangers were (and are). Because there were so few rangers, new immigrants, Buffalo soldiers, and an odd assortment of recruits joined the battle. The recounting of individual stories makes the story of this disaster come alive. Whether this monstrous fire in fact, "saved America" is questionable since big business got a lot of control of these lands after-the-fact. The way the injured and dead were treated afterwards is appalling as well.

I finished this book too quickly. I couldn't put it down. While yes, I read a lot of historical fiction as well as nonfiction about WW II, "The Book Thief" is a unique look at the horror of that war from the perspective of a young German girl, her foster family, Max, whom they sheltered as long as they could, and others in a small German town near Munich. And, of course, from the view of the narrator, Death. Uniquely told, this story draws the reader into the life of a clever frightened girl and her gradual awakening to the reality surrounding her that eventually intrudes directly in her life. Don't miss the chance to delve into Liesel's world, her love of language, and her attempts to make sense of the terrible times even as she finds moments of joy.

I finished this book too quickly. I couldn't put it down. While yes, I read a lot of historical fiction as well as nonfiction about WW II, "The Book Thief" is a unique look at the horror of that war from the perspective of a young German girl, her foster family, Max, whom they sheltered as long as they could, and others in a small German town near Munich. And, of course, from the view of the narrator, Death. Uniquely told, this story draws the reader into the life of a clever frightened girl and her gradual awakening to the reality surrounding her that eventually intrudes directly in her life. Don't miss the chance to delve into Liesel's world, her love of language, and her attempts to make sense of the terrible times even as she finds moments of joy.

I finished this book too quickly. I couldn't put it down. While yes, I read a lot of historical fiction as well as nonfiction about WW II, "The Book Thief" is a unique look at the horror of that war from the perspective of a young German girl, her foster family, Max, whom they sheltered as long as they could, and others in a small German town near Munich. And, of course, from the view of the narrator, Death. Uniquely told, this story draws the reader into the life of a clever frightened girl and her gradual awakening to the reality surrounding her that eventually intrudes directly in her life. Don't miss the chance to delve into Liesel's world, her love of language, and her attempts to make sense of the terrible times even as she finds moments of joy.

It took me time to read this book, close to 1000 pages. This epic takes the reader from the gold rush in the Yukon to America's incursions in Cuba and then the Philippines, with lengthy stays in Wilmington, NC, New York City, and other parts of the United States around the turn of the 20th century. Sayles captures the lives of regular people, communicating in authentic voices and reflecting their times. I can only say that it is an incredible look at history through individuals and families caught up in the times. I particularly was intrigued by the Lunceford family. Driven from Wilmington by racists, Dr. Lunceford attempts to start life anew in New York peddling cures door-to-door, while his son Junior joins the Army, and pianist Jessie ends up working in a factory in dehumanizing conditions. Grimness, pain, and sorrow abound, but there is some joy as well. As I read the final chapters, I was sorry these tales of many were coming to an end. The final pages of the book shock and lead to much reflection about what was just read. For those interested in authentic historical fiction peopled by well-rounded characters (interspersed with true figures from history), this book is highly recommended.

It took me time to read this book, close to 1000 pages. This epic takes the reader from the gold rush in the Yukon to America's incursions in Cuba and then the Philippines, with lengthy stays in Wilmington, NC, New York City, and other parts of the United States around the turn of the 20th century. Sayles captures the lives of regular people, communicating in authentic voices and reflecting their times. I can only say that it is an incredible look at history through individuals and families caught up in the times. I particularly was intrigued by the Lunceford family. Driven from Wilmington by racists, Dr. Lunceford attempts to start life anew in New York peddling cures door-to-door, while his son Junior joins the Army, and pianist Jessie ends up working in a factory in dehumanizing conditions. Grimness, pain, and sorrow abound, but there is some joy as well. As I read the final chapters, I was sorry these tales of many were coming to an end. The final pages of the book shock and lead to much reflection about what was just read. For those interested in authentic historical fiction peopled by well-rounded characters (interspersed with true figures from history), this book is highly recommended.

There are times when I miss litigation, so I thought reading "The Litigators" would remind me of the world of my first career. What I loved about this book was that it also brought me back to the world of the small practitioner. So, while I was not in a firm like Finley & Figg, I remember the struggle for clients, waiting for someone to walk in the door, and hoping for a case beyond the bread-and-butter domestic, traffic, accident, or petty criminal case. The personalities of the four main characters, Oscar Finley, Wally Figg, David Zinc, and Rochelle Gibson, are crafted with care and precision. I remember attorneys like Finley and Figg -- and backbones of the office like Rochelle. David Zinc is the most rounded character, though, as he transitions from a highly paid drone in a mega law firm to an odd new addition in Finley & Figg. Will David stick it out with this firm despite the appalling behavior of the partners? Is there really any hope that the major pharmaceutical class action will give the firm memers the cash boost they have been pining for? How in the world will the firm handle a class action against David's former firm and one of the top attorneys in the country? The courtroom scenes and legal strategies employed by all the attorneys brought back memories of this stage play in which all engage. I enjoyed seeing it recounted in Grisham's words. I have to say the ending was a bit expected, but overall the book is a great read. "The Litigators" is good storytelling and a pretty quick read as well.

After reading the laugh-out-loud "This Is Where I Leave You" last year (actually - listening to an audio book while driving across the country), I had high hopes for this book. Since it focused on the man's perspective during divorce, it had more sadness and fewer laughable moments. Nevertheless, Tropper writes with much insight into the human psyche and the troubled world of relationships. I read it quickly and pretty much anticipated the ending, but that's okay. "One Last Thing Before I Go" is a good read for taking oneself out of a stressful world for a while and experiencing the life of a 21st century family trying to make it work. It also makes one think about one's own mortality and choices one makes, and doesn't make, that may be the last choices.

This is an intriguing quick read from maverick film director David Lynch. For fans who are not aware that he has been practicing transcendental meditation for decades, this book is an introduction to his thoughts about it. Lynch describes about what led him to this practice, how it has benefited his creativity, and why he has set up a foundation to share this practice with students, inmates, veterans, the homeless, Native Americans and others. Fascinating to me were his thoughts on developing his idea for "Lost Highway," one of my favorites. One will also see some of the creative process behind "Twin Peaks," including how Frank Silva came to play a pivotal role. The creation over years of "Eraserhead" and his collaboration with Jack Nance is fascinating. And woven throughout bits and pieces of Lynch's insights into his works are the influences of transcendental meditation. This book may lead the reader to the David Lynch Foundation, where one can see how this practice is growing. For a glance at the interior Lynch, this book is highly recommended.

In many ways, two worlds co-exist when families hire maids (live in or otherwise), gardeners, childcare workers, and others of Latin American origin. There can be intimate involvement with live in "help" since the workers live side by side with their employers. Yet, there is a gulf between the lives of the two groups of people. Héctor Tobar's wonderful novel shows us both points of view. Araceli and the sons of Scott and Maureen are unknowingly caught in a predicament caused by Scott and Maureen's marital strife. Araceli does the only thing that makes sense, trying to find a safe place for the boys. Cultural differences and cultural norms (where those who hire staff keep them at arm's length) result in an unfair predicament for Araceli. Life in Los Angeles and the responsibility for others' children are filtered through Araceli's intelligent eyes. How the boys, Keenan and Brandon, interpret Los Angeles and the surrounds is also insightful. Ultimately, postponed dreams become more realized as the story concludes, and there is a sense of optimism. Tobar effectively expresses the unique voices of all the characters, and I was sorry that the story ended. I plan to read more of his works very soon! He is a brilliant writer.

In many ways, two worlds co-exist when families hire maids (live in or otherwise), gardeners, childcare workers, and others of Latin American origin. There can be intimate involvement with live in "help" since the workers live side by side with their employers. Yet, there is a gulf between the lives of the two groups of people. Héctor Tobar's wonderful novel shows us both points of view. Araceli and the sons of Scott and Maureen are unknowingly caught in a predicament caused by Scott and Maureen's marital strife. Araceli does the only thing that makes sense, trying to find a safe place for the boys. Cultural differences and cultural norms (where those who hire staff keep them at arm's length) result in an unfair predicament for Araceli. Life in Los Angeles and the responsibility for others' children are filtered through Araceli's intelligent eyes. How the boys, Keenan and Brandon, interpret Los Angeles and the surrounds is also insightful. Ultimately, postponed dreams become more realized as the story concludes, and there is a sense of optimism. Tobar effectively expresses the unique voices of all the characters, and I was sorry that the story ended. I plan to read more of his works very soon! He is a brilliant writer.

In many ways, two worlds co-exist when families hire maids (live in or otherwise), gardeners, childcare workers, and others of Latin American origin. There can be intimate involvement with live in "help" since the workers live side by side with their employers. Yet, there is a gulf between the lives of the two groups of people. Héctor Tobar's wonderful novel shows us both points of view. Araceli and the sons of Scott and Maureen are unknowingly caught in a predicament caused by Scott and Maureen's marital strife. Araceli does the only thing that makes sense, trying to find a safe place for the boys. Cultural differences and cultural norms (where those who hire staff keep them at arm's length) result in an unfair predicament for Araceli. Life in Los Angeles and the responsibility for others' children are filtered through Araceli's intelligent eyes. How the boys, Keenan and Brandon, interpret Los Angeles and the surrounds is also insightful. Ultimately, postponed dreams become more realized as the story concludes, and there is a sense of optimism. Tobar effectively expresses the unique voices of all the characters, and I was sorry that the story ended. I plan to read more of his works very soon! He is a brilliant writer.

"One Man's Meat" is a classic by a master writer and teacher about his life on a Maine farm. It is a collection of essays he wrote for Harper's Magazine (though three first appeared in the New Yorker according to an editor's note). White writes of every day life on a farm and its surrounds: contemplating putting an inbox on his desk, hot weather, the annual town meeting, song birds. His clear spare style communicates perfectly. White places us in his farm house, living this new life. I think he would have been a fantastic photographer. His eye for detail is phenomenal. He writes: "This is a day of high winds and extravagant promises, a day of bright skies and the sun on the white painted south sides of buildings, of lambs on the warm slope of the barnyard, their forelegs folded neatly and on their miniature faces a look of grave miniature content. Beneath the winter cover of spruce boughs the tulip thrusts its spear. A white hen is chaperoning thirteen little black chicks all over the place, showing them the world's fair with its lagoons and small worms." (p.124) Of course, this writing also shows the genesis of his thoughts that led to "Charlotte's Web" and "Stuart Little" and other wonderful books. It is a look into the thoughts of a man who made a drastic change in his life and thrived. It is a look into the world from July 1938 until January 1943 as a world war loomed and then began. It is a glorious read when one wants to relax and enter this incredible part of Americana.

This is a poignant collection of poems of John Updike written towards the end of his life (over his final seven years). It is a reflective book, one in which Updike waxes poetic about his childhood, family, travels, and the end of his life. The opening lengthy poem, "Endpoint," is broken into sections. It begins in March 2002 and ends in December 2008, just a month before he died. In "The Author Observes His Birthday, 2005," he reflects: "A life poured into words - apparent waste intended to preserve the thing consumed. For who, in that unthinkable future when I am dead, will read?...." (p. 8) Many writers, I believe, can relate to this beautifully expressed reflection on the impermanence of life and the value (or lack thereof) of the written word. After "Endpoint," Updike has other categories: "Other Poems," "Sonnets," and "Light and Personal." My favorite is "Saguaros" in "Other Poems" and its ending line: "Mute mobs of them throng the desert dusk." (p.62) This is a book of poetry that I occasionally pick up and thumb through as I look for a thought that seems apt for the day. I read "Colonoscopy"(p.48)(part of "Endpoint") on, yes, the day before I had one. Who else would write a poem about this process? "Madurai, India" (p.69) takes us into that city for the moment and was read as I imagined I would travel there one day. Reading "Thunderstorm in Dorset, Vermont"(p.82) places us right in the middle of that storm and beautifully captures the force of nature. In the drought of the desert, it is nice to imagine such a storm.

This is a great book to introduce children (and adults) to beautiful writing and unique artwork. Maya Angelou's wonderful words succinctly describe the imagery of Jean-Michel Basquiat's art in this story book about overcoming fear. Basquiat's large graffiti-inspired art pieces are dark and scary in the beginning, filled with blacks and reds and sharp lines as Angelou writes: "Shadows on the wall, Noises down the hall, Life doesn't frighten me at all." As this picture book moves to conclusion, colors lighten up. We see pinks, greens, light blues, and white. Angelou writes: "Don't show me frogs and snakes, And listen for my scream, If I'm afraid at all, It's only in my dreams." We next see a strong looking character, and then a lovely painting with a simple drawing of the world and the words "Birth of the Earth" as Angelou writes: "I've got a magic charm, That I keep up my sleeve, I can walk the ocean floor, And never have to breathe." This magical book not only is a great story for children, but a fine coffee table book as well.

I purchased this book because one of my favorite places is Mono Lake. I read (and looked at it) from cover to cover because it shows and provides information about so much more. So, now, when I visit this region of the country, my eyes are open to even more beauty. Old highway 395 is a good road to use to begin to explore this region. The book starts with history - geologic and human. It then reviews the various regions in detail, providing information, photos and maps, with suggested driving routes and hikes. My favorite chapter is the one on Mono Lake / Bridgeport Region. It is wonderful to read quotes of John Muir and other nature lovers. If you can't get to this region, the book is great for the armchair traveler.

This is a fun book. Carla Sonheim, an wonderful mixed-media artist and instructor, helps the hesitant artist explore creativity in a seven chapter book. Each chapter covers a different source of inspiration for drawing: animals, people, well-known artists, children, the imagination, nature, and books and culture. There are the 52 different exercises, and each one has a list of supplies needed, instructions, and samples. And, these exercises don't require spending a lot of money on art supplies. The list of supplies that Sonheim uses is listed on page 12, but she notes that you can improvise and just work with a number 2 pencil and paper. I purchased this book to help me come up with ideas for an animated video, but this book opens my eyes to all kinds of other creative outlets as well. Enjoy!

I consider this the best book I have read on lighting. It is written in a clear style, has exercises to take you step-by-step into using light in different ways, and explains the nature of light in a way that is understandable to me. The chapter on the arsenal of lights has proven invaluable since most of my experience had been shooting outdoors, not in the studio. The chapter explains the use of main, fill, hair, rim, background lights and kickers, and also reviews using window light and sunlight. One of the best aspects of the book is that it is a "how-to" book. Various techniques are suggested and illustrated with drawings showing camera and light placement. Photographs show the results of certain suggested efforts.

I can't imagine what it would be like to live in a town anticipating an invasion by an occupying army, and then later, living with the presence of that army. Irene Nemirovsky was there, in Paris and later in a small village. Already established as a well-respected author, Irene wanted to write about World War II as experienced by the French, and began writing a "Suite" - a planned five section book (using Beethoven's 'Fifth Symphony' as a model). Unfortunately, she was killed in Auschwitz in August 1942, just 5 weeks after she had been arrested for being Jewish. It is miraculous that her young daughters carried around various hiding places the suitcase holding her writings. Eventually daughter Denise transcribed the notes, resulting in this book, two of the five planned sections. It is a clear-eyed look at how Parisians of all classes acted as they evacuated from Paris, anticipating the invasion of German troops. Behavior was at times cruel, selfish, selfless, heroic, dignified, stupid, cowardly, brave. The return to Paris is covered, but then the focus shifts to a small village occupied by the Germans. Day-to-day life involves dealing with this occupation, and the novel focuses on several families and their attempts to go on living. There are those who collaborate with the Germans, and those who detest and fear them. As the Germans finally leave after about a year for the Russian front, there are mixed feelings of both the soldiers and the French. Irene faced the possibility of her death with bravery, writing: To lift such a heavy weight, Sisyphus, you will need all your courage. I do not lack the courage to complete the task But the goal is far and time is short. (p.392, from Preface to the French edition.) "Suite Francaise" shows the terrible results of war not from the battleground or the horrifying concentration camps, but from the points of view of a majority of the people, from the wealthy to the poor, urban resident to farmer. It adds another level of understanding to the impact the war had on people in the European continent. Following the conclusion of this novel there are two appendices, one Irene's notes for her planned future research and writing of this "Suite," the second, a series of letters written by Irene, her husband, and others. Reading these appendices further highlights her life, her bravery, and her persistence in making sure this story was told.

Ansel Adams is considered a master of black-and-white photography. It is an awesome experience to see his photos in galleries and museums. If one does not have that opportunity, Pritzker's "Ansel Adams" is a worthwhile substitute. It has photos of some of his most memorable images from national parks, other natural settings, and portraits as well. I enjoy the process of having an oversized book in my lap so that I can look at an image for a long time and study the light, shadows and composition. There is also narrative that reviews his life and his photography.

Keep in mind that this book was published in 1981, so some of the places and structures have changed. Jim Varney traveled about the state to document the remaining "ghost towns," places where people once lived and businesses thrived. For those who like to travel about to the towns-of-the-past, Varney has done a great job of organizing his book since it divides the sites into geographical regions. He provides suggested trips, including directions, and has photos of some of the historical structures. Since it is now over 30 years from the book's publication, I doubt every structure still exists, but for those who love open road trips, it's worth a search. I used it in a recent photography project and was very pleased with the book's suggestions and secrets. There's a great appendix covering topographical maps, driving, walking & cycling in New Mexico, and even a pronunciation guide of the various towns' names (many of which are Spanish-based). For those who are armchair travelers, this is a wonderful look at these dusty old towns.

Many of us take a countless number of photos, and with Facebook and other websites, we also now view many more photos than in the past. Susan Sontag thoughtfully explores the meaning of photos and photography in a series of essays published over years in "The New York Review of Books" in the 1970s. The book opens with "Plato's Cave," one of my favorite topics and certainly relevant to photography. She posits: "Humankind lingers unregenerately in Plato's cave, still reveling, its age-old habit, in mere images of the truth." (p.3) Interesting, as she writes in these early years about the growing popularity of photography, she anticipates an "image-choked world." (p.15) This series of essays explores the value of photos in showing us places we will never see in person (creating a "substitute world" -p.162), its role in desensitizing viewers to horrors, and its essence of being an image of reality - not reality (Plato's cave). Sontag analyzes cultural and historical views of the nature of photography, and explores how certain filmmakers captured the art of image-making. This is a fascinating collection. Her thoughts resonate even more loudly today.

If one loves film, one should read this masterpiece of Perez. I came across it when I was writing my master's thesis and was thrilled to find such a gem. Educated at M.I.T. as a physicist, Perez also wrote film reviews while there. His first chapter, "Film and Physics," briefly reviews film theory from its beginning through the late 90s, and concludes with a discussion of the physics of light: "If Einstein taught us that light falls like any other body, Bazin taught us that light leaves a track like any other body, am imprint the camera makes into an image....The images on the screen carry in them something of the world itself, something material, and yet something transposed, transformed into another world: the material ghost." (p. 28) In the balance of this book, Perez analyzes films from the early days (Keaton, Eisenstein) to current times (Scorsese, Lynch). Some films are even analyzed frame by frame, and he not only discusses classics, but also looks at less well-known films. This is a wonderful reflection on the nature of this art form, beautifully written and inspiring.

Young Milo is bored. One day he receives a mysterious package and it is not even Christmas or his birthday. He opens it up and finds parts of a turnpike tollbooth. Instructions begin: "Easily assembled at home, and for use by those who have never traveled in lands beyond." Since Milo has nothing else to do,he puts it together. With some skepticism about whether he will have fun, he enters the tollbooth and passes through to incredible places. Published in New York City in 1961, and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, "The Phantom Tollbooth" has been enjoyed by parents and children for over 50 years now. Milo encounters a watchdog, a large creature perfectly normal except for his body - a ticking clock. In Dictionopolis, Milo goes to the Word Market where five "tall, thin gentlemen regally dressed" talk one after the other: "Greetings!" "Salutations!" "Welcome!" "Good Afternoon!" 'Hello!" Later, as Milo asks whether the words they are saying mean the same thing, they respond: "Of course." "Certainly." "Precisely." "Exactly." "Yes." Readers will find the Humbug, the Gorgons of Hate and Malice, the Demons of Ignorance and other smart and funny characters in this fantastical world. Enjoy, as a young person, and again as an adult.

Young Milo is bored. One day he receives a mysterious package and it is not even Christmas or his birthday. He opens it up and finds parts of a turnpike tollbooth. Instructions begin: "Easily assembled at home, and for use by those who have never traveled in lands beyond." Since Milo has nothing else to do,he puts it together. With some skepticism about whether he will have fun, he enters the tollbooth and passes through to incredible places. Published in New York City in 1961, and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, "The Phantom Tollbooth" has been enjoyed by parents and children for over 50 years now. Milo encounters a watchdog, a large creature perfectly normal except for his body - a ticking clock. In Dictionopolis, Milo goes to the Word Market where five "tall, thin gentlemen regally dressed" talk one after the other: "Greetings!" "Salutations!" "Welcome!" "Good Afternoon!" 'Hello!" Later, as Milo asks whether the words they are saying mean the same thing, they respond: "Of course." "Certainly." "Precisely." "Exactly." "Yes." Readers will find the Humbug, the Gorgons of Hate and Malice, the Demons of Ignorance and other smart and funny characters in this fantastical world. Enjoy, as a young person, and again as an adult.

Film noir is a beloved style for many. For readers who want to know the history of film noir, this is an excellent source. I loved the style before I understood it was a style, and "The Dark Side of the Screen: Film Noir" has many still shots from films that help one understand the techniques used to create a film noir look. Hirsch thoroughly explains the hows and whys of the noir films, enhancing one's experience when one watches a noir film. Best of all is the "selected filmography" at the end of the book, providing information about the screenwriters, directors, DPs and cast for these several hundred films.

A co-worker of mine knows I love to hike and admire mountain climbers tremendously (though I would never be that brave). She gave me "Paths of Glory" as a gift, and I delved into it immediately. It is based on George Mallory, a climber who wanted to conquer Mt Everest in the years before Sir Edmund Hillary did so. Any book that can describe the actual experience of climbing so effectively - the difficulty, the strain, the bitter cold, the danger, the lack of breathable air - is worthy of a read to those of us who will never dare. Since this "historical novel" is based on a real person, it might be interesting to research how accurately Archer stuck to the facts. I, however, didn't read this to learn about Mallory. I read it to go along on a climb up this awe-inspiring and frightening mountain. The book succeeded in allowing me to join in, and reinforced my respect for those who actually do climb mountains.

The recent film, "In Darkness," brought me back to my memory of reading "Mila 18" in my 20s. It was my first experience of learning about the individual horrors of WWII because Uris took me right into the lives of families and heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto. The thought of creating a life in the sewers and staging battles from there was one of the shocks of the book since I'd not learned of that in my classes in high school and college that addressed WWII. Nor had I ever learned about the resisters, their bravery, cunning and sacrifices. It is a difficult book to read from the emotional perspective, but the experience of stepping in to this world of courage and cruelty, fictionalized by Uris but based on real people and events, is highly recommended.

Oscare Wilde's grandson spent two decades researching Wilde's life. One result - this book. It is truly an insider's look at this controversial man and includes an amazing collection of photos, caricatures, and posters. There's also a double-page image of a watercolor painted by Wilde in 1876 , a beautiful blend of blues and greens (inserts between page 16 and 17). His love of fashion, and his focus on the importance of image, is apparent in the number of posed shots. But oh...his words: ""The little note of individualism that makes dress delightful can only be attained nowadays by the colour and treatment of the flower that one wears." page 145. This is an amazing album, and anyone wanting a personal look at Wilde's life should check out this little gem.

This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it in the early 70s and re-read it recently. Before "Criminal Minds" and other current TV shows where there is an attempt to explore the nature of criminality, Dostoyevsky delved into the subject. He takes us in to the mind of Raskolnikov while he contemplates and tries to justify murder. After the killings, he behaves more and more like a guilty man, so when police officer Petrovich and Raskolnikov have encounters, he is a suspect. This is a fascinating psychological and political study of crime and, yes, punishment.

This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it in the early 70s and re-read it recently. Before "Criminal Minds" and other current TV shows where there is an attempt to explore the nature of criminality, Dostoyevsky delved into the subject. He takes us in to the mind of Raskolnikov while he contemplates and tries to justify murder. After the killings, he behaves more and more like a guilty man, so when police officer Petrovich and Raskolnikov have encounters, he is a suspect. This is a fascinating psychological and political study of crime and, yes, punishment.

This is one of the funniest, laugh-out-loud books that I have read in a long time! I'd not heard of Jonathan Tropper, but this book was recommended by a friend and I thought, "why not." Little did I know that there would be hilarity and insight into family dysfunction when I entered the world of the Foxman family through the eyes of son Judd. This family is grieving the loss of the patriarch and are to sit shiva for a week. This "time out," if you will, gives Judd plenty of time to reflect on his family, failures and hopes. Tropper creates three dimensional characters that are so real, I wonder if they are fully drawn from the people around him. The tale is not just funny - it is sad and enlightening as well about human behavior and the individuals who comprise a family. Of course, after reading "This is Where I Leave You," I will now delve in to all of Tropper's books.

This is one of the funniest, laugh-out-loud books that I have read in a long time! I'd not heard of Jonathan Tropper, but this book was recommended by a friend and I thought, "why not." Little did I know that there would be hilarity and insight into family dysfunction when I entered the world of the Foxman family through the eyes of son Judd. This family is grieving the loss of the patriarch and are to sit shiva for a week. This "time out," if you will, gives Judd plenty of time to reflect on his family, failures and hopes. Tropper creates three dimensional characters that are so real, I wonder if they are fully drawn from the people around him. The tale is not just funny - it is sad and enlightening as well about human behavior and the individuals who comprise a family. Of course, after reading "This is Where I Leave You," I will now delve in to all of Tropper's books.

This is one of my favorite books. I re-read it recently. It is a timeless story of friendship, fairness, and honor. It always amazes me, when I read older literature, how these themes prevail. It is a story that brings forth the horrors of war, and shows how innocent people are caught in the net of revenge. "A Tale of Two Cities" is a permanent part of culture. How many of us have said: "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times...."? That classic beginning is only topped by the classic ending: "It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known." Dickens is a master of the written word, and it is worthwhile to go back to his words again and again. Each time, I gain something new.

This is one of my favorite books. I re-read it recently. It is a timeless story of friendship, fairness, and honor. It always amazes me, when I read older literature, how these themes prevail. It is a story that brings forth the horrors of war, and shows how innocent people are caught in the net of revenge. "A Tale of Two Cities" is a permanent part of culture. How many of us have said: "It was the best of times; it was the worst of times...."? That classic beginning is only topped by the classic ending: "It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known." Dickens is a master of the written word, and it is worthwhile to go back to his words again and again. Each time, I gain something new.

If you want a glimpse into low budget independent film-making, check out Christine Vachon's book. Anyone who has produced or been on a crew of a low budget film will relate to the stories and insights offered. Though a bit dated, it still offers advice and information about dealing with low or no budgets, finding actors and crew, and the festival route. For those who don't know, she has worked with Todd Haynes on films such as "Velvet Goldmine" (my favorite), "Safe," "Poison" and the more recent televised "Mildred Pierce" -- as well as other productions. She continues to produce films and documentaries (including the 2012 documentary on the LCD Soundsystem's final show at Madison Square Garden). I worked on a year (Sundays) on an independent film in Baltimore and definitely related to a lot of the experiences reiterated in "Shooting To Kill."

In 2011, Anthony Shaddad, a New York Times reporter, was captured in Libya. He was beaten and his interpreter was killed. When he was freed, he headed to his ancestral home in Marjayoun, Lebanon. He had been working on renovating his great grandfather's home, and wanted to complete the work. "House of Stone" is the story of his efforts, and blended in this story of reconstruction are reflections on his family, his country, his neighbors, and the Middle East. Reading this poignant memoir, filled with hope about this house of stone, is particularly sad since Shaddad died in Feb 2012 while in Syria (of acute asthma). His death is a loss to his family, his country and the world.

Have you seen the fascinating film based on Reginald Rose's writing? If so - or if not - reading this classic on which the film was based is an incredible experience (as is the film). Having practiced law for several decades, I spent a lot of time trying persuade people of the "rightness" of my side of the case. In this story, Juror Number Eight sees beyond stereotypes and, on first vote, says "not guilty." Can he persuade eleven others to see the case the way he does?

I've not met a writer who also isn't a reader. And, I've not met a writer who hasn't read at least one "how to write" book. I've read quite a few, including this one (a recent purchase). It suggests a Zen-like approach to writing, a focus on mindfulness. It is inspiring to hear from other writers and to be reminded that once we have put our thoughts on paper (well, some still use pen and paper), we have added something of value to the world.

In this book, Irving takes us into a world of a cook (Dominic), his son (Daniel), and a rascal of a friend who stayed behind in the town of Twisted River after Dominic and Daniel flee. Like Dickens, we follow these characters, and those who enter their lives, through several decades of joys and sorrows wondering if and when the "elephant in the room" will reappear. The book is self-reflective as well. Through the character of Daniel (who becomes a writer), the process of writing, including this book, becomes part of the story. It causes one to think a lot about how much of a novel is about the writer, and how much is drawn only from the imagination (if that distinction can, in fact, be made). This book revived my love of Irving's literature, which had been dormant for a while. I am now catching up on two from his past works I haven't yet read ("The Fourth Hand," "Until I Find You") and then will read his newest, "In One Person."

In this book, Irving takes us into a world of a cook (Dominic), his son (Daniel), and a rascal of a friend who stayed behind in the town of Twisted River after Dominic and Daniel flee. Like Dickens, we follow these characters, and those who enter their lives, through several decades of joys and sorrows wondering if and when the "elephant in the room" will reappear. The book is self-reflective as well. Through the character of Daniel (who becomes a writer), the process of writing, including this book, becomes part of the story. It causes one to think a lot about how much of a novel is about the writer, and how much is drawn only from the imagination (if that distinction can, in fact, be made). This book revived my love of Irving's literature, which had been dormant for a while. I am now catching up on two from his past works I haven't yet read ("The Fourth Hand," "Until I Find You") and then will read his newest, "In One Person."

I read this book quickly because I wanted to know how it ended (not usually the case). The Piano Teacher was interesting to me from the historical perspective. I knew little about Japan and the Chinese during WWII, and this book, set in Hong Kong, was an eye-opener. I liked the fact that the book moved between the early 1940s and 1950s, showing certain characters in both time frames. What fell flat for me was the development of Claire. Had there been more of a back story to explain her restlessness, pilfering, and her life after Will, I think it would have been more meaningful to me.

This book took me back to my days of teaching at the Maryland House of Correction (before I became a public defender). One learns the good and bad about folks in prison, and sees that "corrections" is the least concern of the facility. There are folks sincere about working on their cases, learning, being positive. There are folks plotting, scheming, hurting themselves and others. Light shines on the officers as well, some well-intentioned, others with a cruel streak. Steinberg has an interesting experience one night taking a shortcut through a park. He is robbed, and the assailant recognizes him as the "book guy." But, there's no Hollywood moment, no remorse, just a bit of a laugh as the robber leaves with the bit of cash he scored. For those who have never entered a prison, take a look at this story of the accidental librarian. You may be surprised at what you find in this land of books and prisoners.

I was curious about the Vince Flynn series featuring Mitch Rapp since the books do well on the NY Times Bestseller list and I like thrillers. I was less than thrilled to see endorsements by folks of the Glenn Beck ilk. Nevertheless, I read this book, and likened it to a "less well-written-than-the Bourne-series" book. In other words, I prefer the writing of Robert Ludlum. This is a spy versus spy story, with the requisite close calls, seemingly impossible dilemmas, and shoot-outs. A bit too much torture for me, and I think the characters are two-dimensional. I also didn't like the fact that virtually all the Russians and Arabs are super-evil and all the Americans are the white-hat guys and gals. Stereotypes and nationalism are to be expected, but I would have found this book to be better if the characters and cultures weren't portrayed in such a cardboard manner. That being said, it did pass the time and was mildly entertaining. I hear that this book is the basis of an upcoming film. I hope the film avoids such broad sweeps.

Sometimes I just need to read something light. A co-worker gave me "Paths of Glory" last year, and I enjoyed reading about climbing Mt. Everest. That book put me right there on the mountain, and I was captivated by the difficulty of the climb and the drive of the climbers. "Only Time Will Tell" follows the life of a young Henry Clifton, born into poverty with the gift of an amazing voice and curiosity about life. This is entertaining light reading for me, and I will read the next in the series.

Since I love road trips, I was interested in this book which is, essentially, about the history and psychology of travel. I loved the analysis of early walkers (the first bipeds) to those who first walked on the moon. Time, space, human development, culture - they're all brought in to this discussion of the experience of travel.

This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it in the early 70s and re-read it recently. Before "Criminal Minds" and other current TV shows where there is an attempt to explore the nature of criminality, Dostoyevsky delved into the subject. He takes us in to the mind of Raskolnikov while he contemplates and tries to justify murder. After the killings, he behaves more and more like a guilty man, so when police officer Petrovich and Raskolnikov have encounters, he is a suspect. This is a fascinating psychological and political study of crime and, yes, punishment.

This book placed me right back in the 1960s. No, I wasn't living in the south. I lived in Maryland, outside Baltimore, a state which had soldiers on both sides of the Civil War and even today still has a bit of a "north/south split." The house had "help" but only once a week or so. I was a child and recall wondering about this wonderful woman, to whom my mother only spoke about cleaning chores. As I aged and began taking buses to get into town, I wondered about the morning buses coming from the city with black women, while buses going into the city were filled with white folks filling most of the downtown jobs (except for cleaning, of course). I digress. In "The Help," the reader experiences the gross insensitivity and cluelessness of those who hired "help." One also shares in the lives of the these hard workers, intelligent, humorous and the backbones of some of the families. I haven't seen the film yet because I have concerns that it might not rise to the level of this necessary story.