Customer Comments

I was quite skeptical of this book. Like many, I grew up with Pluto as a planet, but I never gave it much thought after that. I knew there was some controversy, but I didn't really pay attention. But then a trusted friend suggested this book, so I decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did! The author was able to draw me in to the story and make me understand why it was important. Along the way, I learned space and general physics concepts that I had heard of, but had never understood. And it was funny. How many science books are funny?

This book rather defies categorization. It is sort of historical fiction and travel writing, with a bit of philosophy and religion thrown in. It was extremely interesting to read how a person in the 1920s thought about life in the 1850s. And of course Will Cather is an amazing writer!

I read somewhere that President Obama was seen buying this book. I think that is a good thing. In some ways, I'm not sure what to think of this book. It was incredibly well written and exposed me to a world I only vaguely know about. But that world is a sad, sad place and I'm not sure I really wanted to go there. I guess it is a good reminder of how lucky I am to have been born here rather than there...

What does it mean to be a person? Can we leave it all behind and reinvent ourselves? Would a mother act like that? These are some of the questions you'll be left with after reading this slim book. It's perfect for a book group! The setting also makes it perfect for a hot summer day!

Some of my favorite authors, plus many new to me, write about motherhood in wonderful and unexpected ways. This book entertained me and made me think.

I've read her other books, but there is new and life changing stuff in here.

This is a great book about things you know about -- but not really. You'll live a different life after reading it.

I read this book wishing it wasn't true, but knowing that it is. The author really captures the horror of the lives of the people of North Korea, but without sensationalizing or dramatizing. This important book puts a human face on current (and past) news.

I love reading books about farmers and this is one of the best I've read. It is a well-written glimpse into the lives of 3 very different farmers. The reader is allowed to draw conclusions about their choices, while gaining a greater appreciation for them.

I picked up this book in a used bookstore in Sydney, but I didn't have a chance to read it until returning home. I wish I had read it before the trip! I think it would have given the trip a different flavor and would have increased my understanding and enjoyment. I understand it is controversial in Australia -- all the more reason to read it!

This lovely little book gives a glimpse into what life was like for a little girl in Japan during World War 2 and after. I found myself smiling, nodding, and crying at her stories.

This is simply a book that everyone should read. They may not agree with the author, but it will expand their thinking.

I loved this book! I did have a couple of "would that really happen" questions, but I think in the end those made the book better and more interesting. I think this would be a good book to read and discuss with anyone age 10 or so and up. So many important ideas...

I read this historical fiction book to give a clearer picture of this time. The action mostly takes place in the years after the Civil War. While it mostly focuses on the Beecher family, other historical events and people are included in a way that seems natural and not contrived. I found it to be an enjoyable read and it met my goal.