Cart
|
|
my account
|
wish list
|
help
|
800-878-7323
Hello, |
Login
MENU
Browse
New Arrivals
Bestsellers
Featured Preorders
Award Winners
Audio Books
See All Subjects
Used
Staff Picks
Staff Picks
Picks of the Month
Bookseller Displays
50 Books for 50 Years
25 Best 21st Century Sci-Fi & Fantasy
25 PNW Books to Read Before You Die
25 Books From the 21st Century
25 Memoirs to Read Before You Die
25 Global Books to Read Before You Die
25 Women to Read Before You Die
25 Books to Read Before You Die
Gifts
Gift Cards & eGift Cards
Powell's Souvenirs
Journals and Notebooks
socks
Games
Sell Books
Blog
Events
Find A Store
Don't Miss
15% off new books on Powells.com!*
Spring Sale
Big Mood Sale
Teen Dream Sale
Powell's Author Events
Oregon Battle of the Books
Audio Books
Get the Powell's newsletter
Visit Our Stores
Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
(0 comment)
Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
Read More
»
Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
(0 comment)
Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
(0 comment)
{1}
##LOC[OK]##
{1}
##LOC[OK]##
##LOC[Cancel]##
{1}
##LOC[OK]##
##LOC[Cancel]##
Customer Comments
njcur has commented on (166) products
The Heron's Cry: A Detective Matthew Venn Novel
by
Ann Cleeves
njcur
, October 19, 2021
You can't go wrong with Ann Cleeves! I'm sorry to be completely caught up on all of her series. I love every one of them. She really creates characters you care about and a puzzle that is fun to pursue. Wonderful sense of place. Jack Holden is a good steady reader, not too dramatic to distract from the story. Very captivating and engaging. I highly recommend!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Heron's Cry: A Detective Matthew Venn Novel
by
Ann Cleeves
njcur
, October 19, 2021
You can't go wrong with Ann Cleeves! I'm sorry to be completely caught up on all of her series. I love every one of them. She really creates characters you care about and a puzzle that is fun to pursue. Wonderful sense of place. Jack Holden is a good steady reader, not too dramatic to distract from the story. Very captivating and engaging. I highly recommend!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Apples Never Fall
by
Holt Author to Be Revealed Fall 2021
njcur
, October 19, 2021
What a splendid book! Caroline Lee is an excellent narrator! Great accent, brings Australia to life but doesn't distract. I was totally captivated by the characters and the mystery. Delighted with the wrap up! Splendid insight on a prickly situation. I really could not wait to get back to this book. It was long, but not long enough. I would have loved to follow these fine folks on the rest of their journeys. Great writing excellently delivered! After just finishing Vanity Fair I was thrilled to find a book so absorbing. I'm sorry that it is finished. Highly recommend it to lovers of Lianne Moriarity, Jodi Picoult and Kate Morton. My thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review. This is my honest opinion. This is one of the best books I've read this year.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Hot to Trot: An Agatha Raisin Mystery
by
M. C. Beaton
njcur
, November 14, 2020
Agatha Raisin is not my favorite of MC Beaton's characters. I decided to try her again now that we have lost this wonderful author. I found Hot to Trot to be enjoyable. I didn't quite understand the role RW Green had in this book. I'm not sure if he wrote it, finished it, or collaborated on it. He did introduce the novel and describe his relationship with Ms Beaton. I still don't love the Agatha Raisin character and found way too much fashion description for my taste, but it was a good mystery with a satisfactory solution. Penelope Keith is an excellent narrator, really gives life to the story. My thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Audiobooks for sharing an advance copy of this title in exchange for my honest review. I will say Blackstone Audiobooks is one of my favorite publishers of Books on CD and downloadable titles. They have a fabulous editorial staff and great readers.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Miracle Country: A Memoir
by
Kendra Atleework
njcur
, September 29, 2020
Cassandra Campbell is a wonderful soothing reader of this fine book. Wonderful descriptions of a wild place. Lots of history. It felt like it bounced back and forth in time some which confused me a little. A good look at grief and the variety of ways different people handle it. I loved her memories and the way they saved her through tough times. I found the book bringing back wonderful memories of my Daddio, reminding me of our forever connection. I received this book as a gift from Early Reviewers at LibraryThing. This is my honest opinion. I have always been impressed with the quality of Algonquin Books. This is no exception!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(0 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor
by
Layla F Saad
njcur
, July 18, 2020
Excellent book! but only if you work at it. Layla Saad really invites you to look deep and be honest. It is a great learning experience. I was impressed that she gave resources and ways to continue to work beyond the 28 scheduled days of the program. It can't stop here. Thank you for an eye opening experience. I hope I can do it justice. I'm trying. I'm glad I own it. I will need to review periodically. I was given an advance copy in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(8 of 9 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Address Book: What Street Addresses Reveal About Identity, Race, Wealth, and Power
by
Deirdre Mask
njcur
, March 02, 2020
What a fascinating book! I was blessed to receive an advance copy in exchange for my honest review. I have to say I was totally captivated. Deirdre Mask is a good storyteller and her research is grand. I found this to be eye-opening. Who knew!?! I have always taken addresses for granted. I did know about the wildly different way of addressing in Japan and was glad to hear a couple of interesting explanations. I learned a lot.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Miracles of the Namiya General Store
by
Keigo Higashino
njcur
, November 27, 2019
Wow! This was totally extraordinary! I come away from it thinking it the best book I've read this year. So many threads to tightly woven. A real joy to read. Not a mystery in the way that the other Keigo Higashino books have been. A touch of time travel, a sprinkle of magic, a wholly heartwarming tale. I loved it. I have really enjoyed all of this author's books and look forward to having more translated. Thank you to Yen Press and NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review. This really is my honest opinion!!! For what it's worth, I went immediately and purchased a copy to give as a Christmas gift. I highly recommend this author and this book in particular! I think this is the best book I've read all year!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Important Thing About Margaret Wise Brown
by
Mac Barnett, Sarah Jacoby
njcur
, June 17, 2019
This is a truly wonderful book! I am carrying it around with me forcing it on everyone I see. They all agree with me. A really beautiful book! I love Mac Barnett and this one tops them all. It has real heart. I am now trying to get my hands on all of Margaret Wise Brown's books. I highly recommend! Please find this book and read it!!!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Himself
by
Jess Kidd
njcur
, June 17, 2019
Himself is a wonderful read! The magical aspect is grounded enough in reality that I didn't fall off the deep end. I loved the characters. This book made me smile and made me laugh. It is full of heart. Great use of the language. I read the print book and listened with my husband to the audio edition. We loved both equally. Wonderful narrator with delightful Irish accent for the audiobook. I am now following Jess Kidd. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next! Thank you to Atria and NetGalley for giving me an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review. I can honestly say I haven't been this excited about a book in some time.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Place to Belong
by
Cynthia Kadohata, Julia Kuo
njcur
, June 17, 2019
A Place to Belong is a story to rock your world. I'm grateful for this look into a time and place I could never visit. It is a difficult subject and I really felt for Hanako. A child should never have to experience what she went through. There are numerous places where I really wondered what I would do if I were in her shoes. A great book for discussion. I found the ending to actually be a beginning and hope that Ms Kadohata will continue the story so we can find out how all these wonderful characters fare in the future. This book has a lot of depth. I think I would want to read it with my child. It might be challenging for a child on their own. They should definitely have someone to turn to with questions. Thank you to Edelweiss and Simon&Schuster for giving me an advance copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Newcomer
by
Keigo Higashino, Alexander O. Smith
njcur
, September 04, 2018
Detective Kaga is a terrific guy to watch work. I really loved this mystery. Keigo Higashino is masterful. I really liked the way this played out. The murder and its victim were not the central focus. It was interesting to see how Detective Kaga solved all the minor mysteries that pop up as clues and theories are tested. A great read! Totally captivating! Thank you to Edelweiss & NetGalley for sharing an advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
A Long Way Home: A Memoir
by
Saroo Brierley
njcur
, June 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this. Just couldn't put it down. I was impressed with Saroo Brierley's attitude towards life. Very inspirational. A truly amazing story, well told, good narrator, too.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Story Girl
by
L. M. Montgomery
njcur
, June 18, 2018
The Story Girl is a wonderful slice of life in a quieter more relaxed time. It is wonderful to read of the fears and triumphs of these great kids. I was touched by how they loved one another through arguments and forgiveness. I was surprised by some of the vocabulary. I think it might be a challenge for modern readers. A lovely book. I'm very glad that it has been brought back to print. Thank you to the publisher for the gift of an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Elsie Piddock Skips in Her Sleep
by
Eleanor Farjeon
njcur
, April 21, 2018
This was a quick and delightful read. I read it in an hour. An older story repackaged with wonderful illustration for a new generation. I loved it. I light sweet magical tale as relevant today as it ever was.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Holy Solitude: Lenten Reflections with Saints, Hermits, Prophets, and Rebels
by
Heidi Haverkamp
njcur
, April 21, 2018
This is one of the best Lenten devotionals I have read in years. Really gives one lots to ponder. Excellent pre-Lent preparation (something I had not seen before). Wonderful, thoughtful practices, engaging questions to deepen the season and give it the purpose that has often been forgotten. I really appreciated the idea of a Friday fast that differed each week. I brought more awareness to the fast and a new way of looking at fasting as a practice. I am grateful to NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press for giving me a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Book of Emma Reyes A Memoir
by
Emma Reyes, Daniel Alarcon
njcur
, April 21, 2018
This is quite an amazing story. I was very sorry that it ended just as she left the convent. This wonderful artist went on to have an extraordinary life. I would have liked to learn where she went from here and how she managed to rise above this troubling childhood. I hope the publisher is listening and will give us more!!!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
White Nights: Shetland 2
by
Ann Cleeves
njcur
, February 12, 2018
I am so impressed with Ann Cleeves. I have read both her Vera Stanhope series and this Shetland series. They are quite different than one another, but both fine mysteries. Wonderful sense of place in these Shetland mysteries. Great characters with real depth. It really feels like making friends. A good story that keeps you turning pages. And a very satisfactory mystery. I highly recommend. Check out the audiobook too! Gordon Griffin is the perfect reader of this series.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
White Nights: A Thriller
by
Ann Cleeves
njcur
, February 12, 2018
I am so impressed with Ann Cleeves. I have read both her Vera Stanhope series and this Shetland series. They are quite different than one another, but both fine mysteries. Wonderful sense of place in these Shetland mysteries. Great characters with real depth. It really feels like making friends. A good story that keeps you turning pages. And a very satisfactory mystery. Gordon Griffin is the perfect reader of this series. I highly recommend.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Home Is A Roof Over A Pig An American Familys Journey to China
by
Aminta Arrington
njcur
, February 12, 2018
A wonderful way to learn about China. I really appreciated the way Aminta talked about the written characters and the language as a way of understanding the Chinese point of view. She also shared her student's opinions which broadened the scope of the book. I would have liked to learn more about what went on in the children's classrooms but that would have made for a much longer book. More depth than a travelogue. A very enjoyable read. Kept me turning the pages.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Racing Manhattan
by
Terence Blacker
njcur
, January 01, 2018
Great story of a girl and a horse. I enjoyed the relationship she had with the horses. I worried for her as problems beset her. I couldn't turn pages fast enough during the races. I was glad to see her growth as a person and her development of a forgiving nature. A very fun book. I would highly recommend. I won my copy from LibraryThing and am grateful to the publisher for the gift.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Letters of Note
by
Shaun Usher
njcur
, December 30, 2017
This is a beautiful book and certainly "Deserving of a Wider Audience". An amazing colllection of letters from all sorts of folks. From Virginia O'Hanlon (of Yes Virginia there is a Santa Claus fame) to the Queen. There are letters carved in stone, on birchbark and coconut, typewritten, handwritten and illustrated. Notes dashed off and lengthy tomes from famous, infamous and unknown authors. Try as I might I was unable to find any system of organization, but I love dipping in and seeing what I will stumble across this time. Terrific facsimile letters are there with complete transcription. Sidebars accompany each correspondence with background and explanation. There is a good index if you are looking for someone in particular. A wonderful gift idea for just about anyone. I am truly grateful to LibraryThing from whom I won a copy of my own. It is a treasure that I will read again and again.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Poem a Day Volume 3 366 Poems Old & New to Learn by Heart & Take to Heart
by
Bowen, Retta
njcur
, December 30, 2017
An extraordinary book. I went out and bought all the other editions that I could find. I loved reading these wonderful poems each evening. I bookmarked many, shared with friends and grabbed this as we prepared to evacuate ahead of the fires. A wonderful collection annotated on each page with notes about the poets and how the poem came to be written or what the poet thought of it. A broad range of poets from around the world and throughout time. Excellent indexes help me to go back and find my favorites. A complete bibliography helped me find the works of authors that moved me. I can't speak highly enough of this treasured tome.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Just One Damned Thing After Another The Chronicles of St Marys Book One
by
Jodi Taylor
njcur
, November 06, 2017
Good adventure story. Fast paced and engaging. I enjoyed it. This had a little more sex and violence that I'm used to, but it didn't detract from the story. I had hoped for more about the paradoxes inherent in time travel, but that was not the focus of this novel. Kept my interest and I'm ready for the next in the series.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Achtung Baby An American Mom on the German Art of Raising Self Reliant Children
by
Sara Zaske
njcur
, October 03, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I found it fascinating to compare cultures of child rearing. Much like Bringing Up Bebe, but with more studies to back up her findings. I appreciated hearing about her return to the US and learning to re-adapt to the culture she left. As with Bringing Up Bebe much of this was how I was raised (in the US, but many years ago). My thanks to the publisher for sharing and advance copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Moo
by
Sharon Creech
njcur
, September 25, 2017
A wonderful blend of poetry and prose. This is a touching new book from a truly remarkable author. I was delighted to see a new book from Sharon Creech. She really captures full characters and interesting situations. I felt for everyone in this story. The blending of formats propels you forward as you read. If you liked Love That Dog or Hate That Cat you will be thrilled with this new offering. What a cow!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
This Victorian Life Modern Adventures in Nineteenth Century Culture Cooking Fashion & Technology
by
Sarah A Chrisman
njcur
, September 23, 2017
Really fascinating. A lot of history in a very entertaining format. Really opens up a new world. For those of us that read Victorian fiction it is wonderful background. It helps to put me more completely in those Victorian settings. I am going to search out her book about wearing a corset. I think it will be fun if it is anything like this. I hope she will write another, I look forward to hearing how she manages with her new wood burning cook stove.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Uniform Justice
by
Donna Leon
njcur
, September 23, 2017
Once again the Donna Leon and David Colacci team give us a winner. I really appreciate the way this series addresses the grey areas in policing. The Brunetti family relationships are also treasures. I have not read these in order, but I still feel like I know everyone like a friend. With all the wonderful characters and Venice as a setting Ms Leon still writes a terrific mystery and Mr Colacci is a magnificent reader. I really love these.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Losers Club
by
Andrew Clements
njcur
, September 23, 2017
Excellent! as are all of Andrew Clements books. I really enjoyed this a lot. I just fell in and wallowed in a wonderful story. I like the thoughtful central character. I think everyone can relate to his worries and be inspired by his solutions. I loved hearing all the titles of books the club members were reading. There is a great list at the back for those like myself that want to read the ones we missed. A fun read. Highly recommended!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Six Four
by
Hideo Yokoyama, Jonathan Lloyd Davies
njcur
, September 23, 2017
Wow, what a wild ride! I stayed up waaay too late getting to the end of this page turner. I found this to be a fascinating look inside the politics of the Japanese police force. I was interested by some of the turns of phrase and the detail concerning the depth of bows. I enjoyed the twists and turns in the plot. I read this in print and listened to parts when my husband was listening. I found the narrator to be frustratingly slow in his delivery. My husband chose to speed up the recording but that was less than entirely satisfactory.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Spineless: The Science of Jellyfish and the Art of Growing a Backbone
by
Juli Berwald
njcur
, July 10, 2017
There is so much to learn from this and it is told in such an entertaining way. I was captivated. There was more about Juli Berwald's personal life than I would expect, but it didn't detract from the fascinating information she shares. I'll be talking about this one for a long time. Thank you to Edelweiss and Riverhead Books for sharing a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
One Memory of Flora Banks
by
Emily Barr
njcur
, July 03, 2017
Read this in a day. Quite the page turner with some twists to keep you on your toes. I'm not sure how I felt about the parents role in this YA book. I think this would be enjoyed by anyone who liked Forgotten by Cat Patrick. Some similarities.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
A Stitch of Time: The Year a Brain Injury Changed My Language and Life
by
Lauren Marks
njcur
, July 03, 2017
Definitely food for thought. This memoir of stroke and recovery was very interesting. Sometimes leaned toward the philosophical sometimes toward a questionable romance. I found it fascinating to hear what it is like inside the head of an aphasic. This is just one person's story, though she does try to fill in some of the science around what she was experiencing. Mostly memoir. Tavia Gilbert had a sweet voice. I can easily imagine her reading young adult or children's books. For me she didn't have the gravity I expected for this material. Just my personal preference. I am grateful to Edelweiss for sharing a copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City
by
Matthew Desmond
njcur
, June 26, 2017
Excellent book. I'm very glad that Matthew Desmond wrote it. It must have been a struggle to live with this dysfunctional system for so long. I was glad for his explanation of how he did the research. Really well done, with great notes. This book explores the lives of several people in Milwaukee, both landlords and tenants. It was maddening and heartbreaking. I had to read it just bits at a time. I would get depressed and frustrated and need to read something else. Which just points up the hardship these people live with in that they cannot get away from it. This is an understudied area of poverty and really needs addressing. Mr Desmond does have some interesting ideas on how to mitigate the problems. An important book, a must read in my estimation. My thanks to Random House/Crown and NetGalley for sharing this book with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir
by
Thi Bui
njcur
, June 19, 2017
Another graphic novel addressing a challenging issue. This is the way I like my graphic novels. Simple coloring (black, white and sepia) drawings both simple and complex as the story requires. A real exploration of motherhood as well as a personal look at Vietnam. I found the Vietnam piece to be complicated and muddled. I was quite young during the war and really didn't understand what was going on. Reading this history from a personal point of view I see that it was complicated and muddled for everyone. The impact on the people of Vietnam harder than anyone should have to endure. I felt adrift as I read. This is a book that needs discussion. There is so much to digest. Thank you to Thi Bui for sharing this intimate tale.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Restart
by
Gordon Korman
njcur
, June 19, 2017
I really liked this wonderful book. I hope a lot of kids pick it up and check it out. It has a lot of depth and nuance without losing the pacing. A challenge to put yourself in Chase's shoes. Imagine waking up with no memory and not liking the person you seem to have been. Great to see him try to rebuild a life in a better way. Also interesting to watch the folks around him adjust to the new Chase. I think it would be a great book group book. I am grateful to Scholastic and Edelweiss for sharing an advance copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Celias House
by
D E Stevenson
njcur
, June 19, 2017
Another lovely book from DE Stevenson. I really enjoy these old fashioned stories. The characters feel real, but nothing really terrible ever happens. A great escape from the political world of today. It is wonderful to see these coming back into print. Thank you to Sourcebooks, NetGalley and Edelweiss for giving me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Otherwise Known as Possum
by
Maria D. Laso
njcur
, April 27, 2017
This is a wonderfully touching story. It has much depth. A great book for discussion. I loved all of the characters. I felt their sadness and rejoiced as they found their way. Lovely lyrical writing. A terrific sense of place. I am crushed to know that this is all we will ever have from this talented author. I feel very lucky to have found it. I am forever grateful to Scholastic for sharing this beautiful book with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Bowls
by
Molly Watson, Nicole Franzen
njcur
, April 27, 2017
Fascinating idea. Quite a page turner. Seems like it would make a good choice for a reading group. So many issues to delve into. I found it remarkable to have such a thoughtful theme and still with the action that compelled me forward. This is not really a dystopia, but a similar feeling. I'm grateful for Rachel's recommendation. This is a title I will share with others.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(0 of 3 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Arc of a Scythe 01 Scythe
by
Neal Shusterman
njcur
, April 27, 2017
Fascinating idea. Quite a page turner. Seems like it would make a good choice for a reading group. So many issues to delve into. I found it remarkable to have such a thoughtful theme and still with the action that compelled me forward. This is not really a dystopia, but a similar feeling. I'm grateful for Rachel's recommendation. This is a title I will share with others.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds
by
Michael Lewis
njcur
, April 27, 2017
Michael Lewis is a wonderful writer and Dennis Boutsikaris is an excellent narrator. I really enjoyed this book. A wonderful look into this friendship and the insights that these fascinating men uncovered. More about the men and their friendship than the research, though their relationship revolved around their findings. I felt like an eavesdropper. Exquisite ending!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
H Is For Hawk
by
Helen Macdonald
njcur
, April 07, 2017
Really a wonderful book! It captivated me from the very first paragraph. Much different than I had imagined. I listened to the audio version. It is read by the author and she does a really fantastic job! Ms Macdonald has a lovely accent. She felt like a friend telling me a story over the kitchen table. I was fascinated by the hawk and her training tales. I was surprised and delighted to learn so much about TH White. Her grief was present, but not really a character as I had thought it would be. I was touched by the moments when she was startled by a memory. I remembered times like that with my own father's passing. This is a treasure of a book, unlike anything I have read before. I am so very grateful to Helen Macdonald for sharing her journey. I look forward to anything more by her.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
H Is for Hawk Lib/E
by
MacDonald, Helen
njcur
, April 07, 2017
Really a wonderful book! It captivated me from the very first paragraph. Much different than I had imagined. Read by the author and she does a really fantastic job! Ms MacDonald has a lovely accent. She felt like a friend telling me a story over the kitchen table. I was fascinated by the hawk and her training tales. I was surprised and delighted to learn so much about TH White. Her grief was present, but not really a character as I had thought it would be. I was touched by the moments when she was startled by a memory. I remembered times like that with my own father's passing. This is a treasure of a book, unlike anything I have read before. I am so very grateful to Helen Macdonald for sharing her journey. I look forward to anything more by her.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness
by
Sy Montgomery
njcur
, April 07, 2017
Fascinating book, well written and really interesting look at octopuses and their fellow sea creatures. I also enjoyed reading about the inner workings of a public aquarium. I'm ready to go visit my nearest aquarium and volunteer. I want to look for other books by this author now. She really drew me in. I was grateful to receive an advanced reader's copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 4 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
How This Book Was Made
by
Mac Barnett
njcur
, April 05, 2017
As always with Mac Barnett, this is a wonderful book. Lots of good information interspersed with whimsy and fantasy and illustrated frustration. Delightful artwork from Adam Rex. I highly recommend this for all ages. Read it to a child you know! You'll have a terrific time!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Hillbilly Elegy A Memoir of a Family & Culture in Crisis
by
J D Vance
njcur
, April 05, 2017
This audiobook was really wonderful. Read by the author it had a great sense of immediacy. This is another title that liberals should be reading to see another side to this issue. JD Vance has lived through this remarkable life and shares the views of folks with whom we don't really have contact. This book really opened my eyes. Thank you very much for sharing! Thank you also to Harper Collins for sharing the print edition in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Naoko
by
Keigo Higashino
njcur
, April 05, 2017
This is a remarkable book. Fascinating premise well developed. Strong sympathetic characters. Very thought provoking. Great book for a group discussion. I enjoyed the insight into a Japanese way of looking at things. Beautiful ending. I have really liked everything I have read by this author. I hope the translations keep coming. An added note. I read this some years ago and it still haunts me. I work at a library and recommend this often.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Cutting Back My Apprenticeship in the Gardens of Kyoto
by
Leslie Buck
njcur
, April 05, 2017
An interesting book about apprenticing in Japan. We Americans are sure wimps compared to Japanese workers. I enjoy inside looks at parts of Japan. This one centered mostly on Ms Buck's work. (An apprentice really doesn't have time to see the sights.) Though the book centers on her job, it does not go into technical detail about pruning. Made me want to track her down to work on my garden. Very readable. One really feels for her. At the same time one can intuit the frustration of her coworkers and mentors as she struggled to learn without really knowing the Japanese language. I do wish that there had been some illustration of the wonderful gardens she describes. I was grateful to Workman Publishing and Timber Press for sharing this title with me in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Name of the Game is a Kidnapping
by
Keigo Higashino
njcur
, April 05, 2017
Higashino is a master of the twist and turn. This was great. A fascinating premise. Really caught me up and pulled me along. Not much of a mystery for three quarters of the book. Then the plot twists. A captivating read.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Art of Beatrix Potter
by
Emily Zach, Eleanor Taylor, Steven Heller
njcur
, April 05, 2017
I hate to click, "I'm finished" for this book. It is truly a treasure. I will go back to it again and again. I am grateful to have received a copy as a gift from LibraryThing. Beatrix Potter's artwork has so much more scope than just the children's books with which we are so familiar. My husband loves her wonderfully detailed mushroom watercolors. I love to fall into her delightful landscapes and cozy interiors. This book is so beautiful. I could wish for any of the illustrations to be framed for my home. The spare text provides interesting anecdotes and insight into her work. Not a biography it still opens up her life to us. A wonderful book for art lovers of all stripes and a special treat for Beatrix Potter lovers.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(0 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Balls It Takes Some to Get Some
by
Chris Edwards
njcur
, November 01, 2016
Fascinating book. I'm so glad that Chris Edwards wrote this. I found it interesting that as I was reading I always felt like it was written by a man. It was, of course, but I was sometimes startled to read his reaction to his female body because I was hearing a man speaking. A courageous book. An eyeopener for those of us lucky enough to be born into the right bodies. Hopefully an inspiration to those not so fortunate. I'm glad that Chris was very clear that he was exceptionally lucky to have the funds and the support to get all the surgery he needed. I do wish that there were photos. Mr Edwards explained why he had included no before pictures, but I would have liked them anyway. I did have to look online to find current pictures of him. He is a very attractive man. I wish him well. I'm grateful to have received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Beauty and Chaos
by
Michael Pronko
njcur
, September 06, 2016
I really liked this a lot. It took me a long time to finish because I only dipped into it when I had not much time to read. This book works well for those that want to just read a little at a time. Lots of good stopping places, though the material is so interesting it is hard to put down. These short essays are a wonderful look at a very different society. Michael Pronko does a terrific job of observing without strong prejudices for or against what he sees. A very good reporting job and a fascinating topic. I will definitely be looking for more by Mr Pronko. My thanks to NetGalley for sharing an advance copy of this title with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Strangers in Their Own Land Anger & Mourning on the American Right
by
Arlie Russell Hochschild
njcur
, July 12, 2016
This is a must read for all us liberals who are wondering what is going on in the thinking of the Right. Arlie Hochschild went to Louisiana and visited with a variety of folks down there. Most have been adversely effected by pollution and environmental disasters of many kinds. A huge number are Tea Party members. It is really interesting to get to know these people and see how they have come to believe as they do. They are thoughtful and caring people with a different way of viewing the US political situation. I am very grateful to Ms Hochschild for sharing this journey with us. I hope that our politicians will read Strangers in Their Own Land. I think that it would begin to break down the walls that have divided our country for so long. Thank you to Edelweiss and The New Press for sharing this book with me in exchange for an honest review. I am so glad they have put this out. It is an important book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(7 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Mark Bittmans Kitchen Matrix Visual Recipes to Make Cooking Easier Than Ever
by
Mark Bittman
njcur
, May 13, 2016
What a fun way to lay out a cookbook! Beautifully illustrated with delicious recipes and lots of variations to explore. The recipes are great and there are recipe generators to help you create your own new dishes. Endless possibilities is an understatement! Thank you to Blogging for Books for offering me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Gratitude Diaries How a Year Looking on the Bright Side Transformed My Life
by
Janice Kaplan
njcur
, December 02, 2015
Really interesting and thought provoking. Ms Kaplan has put together a good mix of storytelling and research studies. I felt it was a little heavy on the name dropping, but I still enjoyed it. I had fun trying some of her ideas and fell in love with my husband all over again. I think this is one of the better books on gratitude that I have read. I would have liked there to be a bibliography to some of the sources she used, but you can't have everything. Thanks to Dutton/Penguin and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Year Without a Purchase One Familys Quest to Stop Shopping & Start Connecting
by
Scott Dannemiller
njcur
, November 25, 2015
Interesting idea, but not carried out as I had expected. Since food can be purchased it seems that dining out and fast food are okay purchases. Candy and fast food gift cards become the gifts of choice for the children. This book is clearly written for Christians. I'm afraid it will lose a lot of people with this bias. It is not so much an indictment of consumerism as a call to spend more time with family and friends and to be more aware of our prosperity and privilege as Americans. As a Christian book advocating more awareness of our buying habits it works quite well. Each chapter starts with a bible verse and the chapters tell stories of the Dannemiller family's triumphs and failures as they proceed through the year. Scott is very self deprecating and acknowledges the problems I mentioned before. I had thought it might be more like Barbara Kingsolver's book where she pledges to eat locally for a year. My husband and I are not typical consumers. We don't buy very much and so some of the problems the Dannemillers faced didn't seem like a big deal to me. I'm sure such a challenge would be more difficult with children and the peer pressure they face. But again my parents taught us, "Not to follow the common herd." I appreciated the summing up at the end and the several appendices that offered suggestions on how to become more mindful consumers ourselves. Thank you to Edelweiss and Westminster John Knox Press for sharing this title with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
So Anyway
by
John Cleese
njcur
, October 28, 2015
Great fun! lots of laughs! fascinating look at John Cleese's life. Not a straight path, but a very enjoyable one. I could hear his voice in the telling of his early life. Just what I had hoped for, a wonderful evening of laughter. I'm grateful to BloggingForBooks for sharing this title with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
So Anyway
by
John Cleese
njcur
, October 28, 2015
Great fun! lots of laughs! fascinating look at John Cleese's life. Not a straight path, but a very enjoyable one. I could hear his voice in the stories of his early life. Just what I had hoped for. A wonderful evening of laughter. I'm grateful to BloggingForBooks for sharing this title with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Michael Symons 5 in 5 for Every Season 165 Quick Dinners Sides Holiday Dishes & More
by
Michael Symon
njcur
, September 23, 2015
I have always loved the idea of five ingredients in five minutes. These take a little longer and don't count spices as ingredients so the title is a little misleading. There are some very tasty ideas here (no macaroni or velveeta need apply). More meat than I usually eat, but great for a last minute meal when I'm pooped. I greatly appreciated his pantry chapter which lets you know what you need to keep on hand. Arranged by season, Mr Symon makes it easy to find recipes with ingredients I just got at the Farmer's Market.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Week in Winter
by
Maeve Binchy
njcur
, September 23, 2015
Nanny, my grandmother, loved Maeve Binchy. I'm glad I finally tried her writing. I really enjoy her books. This is my second and they were both wonderful. Rosalyn Landor has a beautiful voice and lovely accent for these stories. I appreciate the depth of character. Each person feels like someone I might meet. A nice relaxing read. Obstacles are overcome, people are built up, peace and happiness are found. One character was lost (she went home) and we didn't hear how her life might have changed or if it did. Makes me ponder. Probably more realistic that one gets away. Everyone is so real that I would love to follow them all into a new book, but there is a very satisfactory ending should that not happen. I will look forward to any new book by Ms Binchy.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Astounding Broccoli Boy
by
Frank Cottrell Boyce
njcur
, September 23, 2015
I think the real message of this book is that we are all Super in some way. It is a wild and crazy romp with two, then three children who have turned green, as green as broccoli. I would not recommend it as a way to deal with bullies. While the bullying problem does get solved, it doesn't get solved in a way that could be duplicated. I like the fact that the puny guy ends up strong and the big guy is revealed as scared. Fun, funny and astounding adventures. A real page turner. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Religious Body
by
Catherine Aird
njcur
, September 15, 2015
Interesting mystery taking place in a convent. Made me curious about Catherine Aird's experience of convents and nuns. Nice light cozy mystery. Quick read. Glad to see Catherine Aird's books back in print. I was given an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Greenglass House: A National Book Award Nominee
by
Kate Milford
njcur
, September 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this. A really delightful pageturner! The ending startled me. I might need to go back and see if I should have seen it coming. A fun mystery with curious characters and an unusual atmosphere. A captivating read. I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Simply Ancient Grains Fresh & Flavorful Whole Grain Recipes for Living Well
by
Maria Speck
njcur
, August 27, 2015
I love this book for its delicious breakfast recipes. I needed some new ideas. I especially liked the two step method to cut down on cooking time for busy mornings. But that is just the start! Maria Speck has given us wonderfully complete introductions to each of the grains. Letting us know about the texture, flavor and nutritional pluses of every one. She includes a cooking table for a quick look at grain to liquid ratios and ideal cooking methods. Her recipes are delicious and the fine points after each recipe offer gluten free and vegetarian options as well as variations of the dish. At the end there are listings of sources for these more unusual grains. Simply Ancient Grains is beautifully illustrated which inspires me to get into the kitchen and try something new. Thank you for a very special addition to my cooking library. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend
by
Katarina Bivald
njcur
, August 18, 2015
Lovely comfortable read. Made me happy to just curl up and enjoy it. Generous characters, nice sense of place. A bit of romance and lots of books. Funny and touching. Light and quick read. Nice for a hot summer afternoon.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Mrs Sinclairs Suitcase
by
Louise Walters
njcur
, August 07, 2015
This book grabbed my attention right away. Great description and wonderful characters. I really felt for everyone in the story and wanted everything to work out for them. The puzzle was intriguing. I was captivated by the items found in books and appreciated the way they tied to the narrative. I have worked in bookstores and libraries and love to find these sorts of treasures. I felt like I could move into the cottage and wanted to visit the bookstore right away. Stayed up late to finish, but sorry to have the book end.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Uprooted A Canadian War Story
by
Lynne Reid Banks
njcur
, July 28, 2015
Great insight into Canada's war, the plight of evacuees and the beauties of Saskatchewan. The characters are very real, the writing is delightful. I learned a lot about the difficulties in leaving Britain that I hadn't known before. This is the author's own story and it is wonderful how she follows up in the end. Thank you to Harper Collins for sharing an advanced copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry
by
Gabrielle Zevin
njcur
, July 02, 2015
Very enjoyable, quick read. Sweet book. A book for readers. I especially enjoyed the fact that most of the books mentioned were ones I knew. Good characters. Made me want to visit Alice. I had some trouble following the passage of time, but it didn't disrupt the flow too much.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Good Shufu Finding Love Self & Home on the Far Side of the World
by
Tracy Slater
njcur
, July 01, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. It captured me right away. Not as much of a view of Japan as I had expected, it is more the story of one person's search for identity while moving between Japan and Boston. This is a wonderfully engaging memoir. Ms Slater is very honest in sharing her worries and fears and triumphs. Her love for her husband and his for her really shine through. I was surprised that she was so slow to learn Japanese, though I know it is a very difficult language. Her relationship with her father-in-law is especially touching. I hope Tracy will write more about how life continues for her family once the baby is born. I was very sorry it ended so soon. Thank you to Edelweiss for giving me a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
A Modern Way to Eat: 200+ Satisfying Vegetarian Recipes (That Will Make You Feel Amazing)
by
Anna Jones
njcur
, June 02, 2015
I have explored many vegetarian cookbooks. This is the most exciting one I have read in some time. There are some really unusual and delicious smoothie and hummus recipes. These two dishes are pretty common in vegetarian cookbooks, but A Modern Way to Eat has really stepped outside the box to come up with some truly unique ideas. I love the sections on soups and salads where Anna Jones opens to our own creativity. She shows columns and suggest you choose an ingredient from each. She explains what the role the ingredient might have and how to add it to create your own signature dish. I haven't seen anything like this since the Tassajara Cookbook back in the late 70s or early 80s. Lovely presentation. Great illustrations. This book really makes me want to get in the kitchen and cook. Thank you Blogging For Books for giving me a copy in exchange for my honest review. It will be a treasure on my shelves.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(5 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Pirate Hunters Treasure Obsession & the Search for a Legendary Pirate Ship
by
Robert Kurson
njcur
, May 27, 2015
This is an amazing book. A little more violence than I expected. Some parts made me a bit squeamish. Great adventure, a real page turner. I look forward to anything Robert Kurson writes. I like the trouble he takes to provide background information in addition to the excitement of the story he tells. I have enjoyed all of his books. I'm grateful to Edelweiss.Above the treeline for providing me an advance copy in return for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
In Her Kitchen Favorite Recipes from Grandmas Around the World
by
Gabriele Galimberti
njcur
, May 17, 2015
This is an extraordinary coffee table book. It will make you hungry as you browse its pages. Wonderful photography. An exceptional tour of the world. Some of the recipes are quite simple, others very complicated and requiring exotic ingredients. (Hard to find iguana in the US!) Lovely stories of these beautiful women, though shorter than I would like. It really points out the diversity on our planet, in food and culture and living conditions. Makes me very grateful for my home and family and curious to explore the world. I'm wowed. I think I will purchase several copies as gifts. Thank you to bloggingforbooks for giving me a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster
by
Scott Wilbanks
njcur
, March 28, 2015
A very fun time travel book. I loved the beginning and was hooked right away. Good characters, lots of action, twists and turns. A wonderful vacation getaway. I'm delighted that the publisher shared a copy of this with me in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Soul of an Octopus A Joyful Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness
by
Sy Montgomery
njcur
, March 28, 2015
Fascinating book, well written and really interesting look at octopuses and their fellow sea creatures. I also enjoyed reading about the inner workings of a public aquarium. I'm ready to go visit my nearest aquarium and volunteer. I want to look for other books by this author now. I was grateful to receive an advanced reader's copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Listening Valley
by
D E Stevenson
njcur
, February 07, 2015
I found this one a little slow at the start, but once Tonia found her love and then got her own home I just fell into the book. I loved the atmosphere and the characters. I enjoyed the sweetness. I will keep looking for more by this author. I hope publishers will continue rereleasing her older titles. My other favorites of hers have been Mrs. Tim and Miss Buncle. I know there are others I should try.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Charlotte's Web
by
E. B. White
njcur
, January 21, 2015
This is one of the most wonderful children's books of all time. It is amazing to me that it did not win the Newbery Award. Fabulous illustrations by Garth Williams. It is a treasure from my childhood and I love it still.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Deaf & Hearing Siblings in Conversation
by
Marla C Berkowitz, Judith A Jonas
njcur
, December 27, 2014
This is a good book for those working with the deaf. It gives a view of deaf culture and of family dynamics outside of that culture. I was saddened at times and heartened by different family tales. Much of the book is very academic, but there are well told stories to illustrate the authors' points. It does a good job of getting inside the heads of siblings both hearing and deaf, to understand each person's personal struggles. Good explanations of the problems, but no real suggestions on how to overcome family difficulties. I think anyone with deaf family members would profit by hearing the other side of the story as presented here. I won this in a LibraryThing giveaway and was grateful for the opportunity to read it in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Tamales Fast & Delicious Mexican Meals
by
Alice G Tapp
njcur
, December 05, 2014
Well, I'm not actually finished with this book. A cookbook like this I will use over and over. It is a great book for beginners as well more experienced cooks. It includes everything from making masa to rolling and tying the tamales as well as delicious fillings and sauces. I was surprised to see how much fat is in tamale masa. And glad to see that a polenta masa recipe was included that cut the fat dramatically. Recipes for traditional fillings as well as more unusual ones are in this wonderful book. Also for sweet tamales which are often overlooked. Quite a variety of yummy sauces as well. The beautiful as well as instructive illustration really inspire me to get cooking. Thank you to the publisher for providing me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Joy of the Gospel: Evangelii Gaudium
by
Pope Francis
njcur
, November 05, 2014
This beautiful hardcover edition is a great addition to any spiritual person's library. The pope's thoughts are laid out in nice bite size chunks. Just right for meditation. This would be a good choice for a worship sharing group to read together and discuss. Very challenging and uplifting.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Etta Maes Worst Bad Luck Day
by
Ann B Ross
njcur
, October 25, 2014
A high energy frolic. Not the Southern accent that I had hoped for in the reader, but she was very engaging and I warmed to her at once. This story takes place in Miss Julia's town, but she has just a cameo appearance. Etta Mae is really from the other side of the tracks. Lots of laughs as the plots twist and turn and jump all over one another. I liked it a lot and hope that there will be more Etta Mae stories. I am grateful to have won this audiobook from LibraryThing.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Asian Pickles Sweet Sour Salty Cured & Fermented Preserves from Korea Japan China India & Beyond
by
Karen Solomon
njcur
, October 18, 2014
This book is a feast for the eyes as well as the mouth. The photography really invites you to jump in and try the terrific recipes. Organized by region, I was easily able to find the Japanese pickles we fell in love with while traveling there. Each country has its own basic techniques described to help those who like to experiment on their own. The glossary, resources and index make it easy to access the information and to expand on what is offered. I think Karen Solomon has hit a home run with this one.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
36 Views of Mount Fuji: On Finding Myself in Japan
by
Cathy N. Davidson
njcur
, September 30, 2014
A really good view of Japan. Cathy Davidson describes being in Japan as a gaijin and its difficulties and rewards. She has some very interesting stories of people and places she visits. She and her husband live on a professor exchange for a couple of years. They return home to the American Midwest and they find that they pine for Japan. A return trip causes them to rethink their desire to return permanently to Japan. They make many trips over a number of years. I appreciated the tide-like push and pull that Ms Davidson felt for Japan and its customs. She articulated it very well. Good insights into her own thinking and that of her friends (Japanese and gaijin).
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Sisters
by
Raina Telgemeier
njcur
, September 16, 2014
I'm not really into graphic novels. This was the best that I have read yet. Good illustration, very appropriate for the material. Sisters moves back and forth in time. I had some trouble recognizing where in time I was, but I enjoyed it anyway. A very real story of sisters growing up. I could see my sister and myself in the story. I will look for others by this author. Thank you to NetGalley for offering me an advanced copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Reluctant Detective
by
Charles Nettleton and Martha Ockley
njcur
, September 02, 2014
A good cozy mystery. I liked Faith Morgan. I appreciated the challenges of faith that she faces. Good characters, engaging story, satisfying mystery. I look forward to reading more Faith Morgan mysteries. I hope they will expand upon her relationship with Inspector Shorter. I also look forward to getting to know the parishioners better. There seem to be some interesting folks in the congregation. Some religion more real and not so sweet as the Jan Karon books. This felt like a very promising beginning for a series. I was glad to have won this book in the LibraryThing giveaways. Thank you very much!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
99 Blessings
by
David Steindl Rast
njcur
, August 27, 2014
This is truly a wonderful book. Each blessing so beautifully worded. A great place to start meditation. These prayers of gratitude really touch my heart. I use them to start my day right and to end it peacefully and gratefully. It makes for relaxed, productive days and wonderful restful nights. These lovely meditations are easily accessible to folks of all religious backgrounds. Thank you to Image Publishing for sharing this beautiful book with me.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Archetype
by
M D Waters
njcur
, July 15, 2014
I like the tension as the main character tries to figure out what is happening. It moves along at a good pace. The solution is surprising yet inevitable. Archetype is obviously setting you up for a sequel. I'm not sure that I am interested enough to look for the next book. I'm glad I read it. I have lots of patrons at the library that will enjoy it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Stubby the Dog Soldier: World War I Hero
by
Blake Hoena
njcur
, July 15, 2014
Great introduction to a heroic dog. Wonderful illustration. It is good to have nonfiction titles available for our younger readers. Get them started early reading true stories. Lots of young boys will really like this one. An excellent choice for our selective readers.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Richard Scarrys Best Storybook Ever
by
Scarry, Richard
njcur
, July 05, 2014
I recommend this book all the time. It is a wonderful book for a child to grow with. It has everything from the alphabet and colors to easy reading stories to bedtime stories to read to the little ones. Good to carry everywhere for those times when the kids are getting cranky. Lots to occupy their busy minds.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Love by the Morning Star
by
Laura L. Sullivan
njcur
, July 05, 2014
Fun book. The old switched roles idea, well executed. Good laughs and a happy ending. I enjoyed it a lot. Quick, light read. Good summer beach read.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Answer to the Riddle Is Me A Memoir of Amnesia
by
David Stuart MacLean
njcur
, January 29, 2014
I have handed this to my husband to read because I need someone with whom I can talk about it. It is an amazing story. Nice short chapters that drew me in immediately. I was astonished at some of his choices. This really causes one to question what makes us who we are? It is quite a journey. I am grateful that Mr MacLean chose to share it with us. Thank you to edelweiss.abovethetreeline for giving me a copy to review. It will be a great addition to my library's collection. I was surprised to see that Rayna Gellert had written a song based on MacLean's experience. It is on her new CD. Apparently they are friends. Small world!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
A Medal for Leroy
by
Michael Morpurgo
njcur
, November 30, 2013
I love Michael Morpurgo. He is a wonderful writer. I was captivated at once and sadly finished the book in a flash. I really wish it had lasted longer. A great choice for kids looking for an historical novel for their report.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Bead & a Prayer A Beginners Guide to Praying with Beads
by
Kristen E Vincent
njcur
, November 01, 2013
This is a wonderful book about a new way of praying from an old tradition. It gives a good history of the use of beads for prayer. It has an excellent explanation of the symbolism in the Anglican prayer beads. Ms Vincent offers many different ways of using the beads, from group activities to individual prayers. She gives detailed instructions for making your own set of beads. She also sets out a group study program with weekly meditations and activities. A small book it is not too daunting and very welcoming. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a new spark in their prayer life. Thank you Upper Room for sharing this book with me. I will have to purchase several copies for my Quaker Meeting library, the public library where I work and for the group of friends I want to share this with.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Living the Quaker Way: Timeless Wisdom for a Better Life Today
by
Philip Gulley
njcur
, November 01, 2013
I'm glad to see this very approachable book. Philip Gulley is a popular author and a wonderful storyteller. His personal stories really enhance the experience of this book. As Mr Gulley says there is great diversity in Quaker theology and thus it is very difficult to describe. I am a Quaker and I think that he has done a lovely job with this. I like the fact that he has queries throughout and a section of queries at the end of the book for people to ponder. This does give a real flavor of the Quaker experience.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Pullman Porter: An American Journey
by
Vanita Oelschlager
njcur
, October 30, 2013
Wonderful children's book about the Pullman Porter. I learned a lot. I had known that the Pullman Porter was held in very high esteem in the black community, but this explained why. I didn't realize that they were named after the creator of the first sleeping cars on trains. I think this will be a wonderful addition to the library's juvenile collection.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
All Girl Filling Stations Last Reunion
by
Fannie Flagg
njcur
, October 19, 2013
Four and a half stars! Very funny. Kind of a slow start, but really grew into a wonderful book. I love Fannie Flagg and this is one of her best. I love her depth of characters, her sense of humor and the wonderful stories she tells. This one was hard to put down and I was very sorry to have it end. I was given a galley of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
To the End of June The Intimate Life of American Foster Care
by
Cris Beam
njcur
, October 15, 2013
This is a well written and carefully researched look at the foster care system in the United States. It focuses mainly on New York, but does share what is happening in other states as well. Cris Beam illustrates the problems with stories of individuals and families. We see their hopes and dreams and the crushing realities that they face. A heartbreaking book. A difficult read just because I felt so helpless. I wish that there were more solutions. Thank you Ms Beam for opening our eyes to this issue in such a compelling way.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Boys in the Boat Nine Americans & Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics
by
Daniel James Brown, Edward Herrmann
njcur
, October 15, 2013
What an amazing book! The prologue brought tears to my eyes. We know from the title that this team wins gold in Berlin, and yet the suspense Mr Brown creates is wild. My heart was beating so fast, I was leaning into the beat and cheering and encouraging. I just loved these guys and felt for them with my whole heart. A wonderful story of building a crew and the power of trust and teamwork. Edward Herrmann does a masterful job reading this one.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Night Swimmers
by
Betsy Byars
njcur
, September 03, 2013
I often was sad to see adults come to the rescue of kids that had been doing fine on their own. This book didn't give me that feeling. The three children were never okay. They didn't work together and their love for each other never showed. As an adult, I was horrified at their meals and at their father's lack of attention. I did see myself in the older girl's desire to run the show and be in charge. I also related to the younger boy's desire to be in on everything. I was sorry for the lack of cooperation between siblings. I didn't trust the ending. I would like to see how this family fares as time goes by. Disclaimer : I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
100 Year Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window & Disappeared
by
Jonas Jonasson
njcur
, August 29, 2013
A delightful and crazy book! I received a free copy from Edelweiss and am very grateful for the gift. Reading it was a great vacation from everyday life. I agree with reviewers who likened parts of it to Forrest Gump only with vodka instead of chocolate. The story moves back and forth from telling the 100 year old man's life story to the present day escape through the window. All parts are full of laughs. Very satisfying ending. Fast and fun read!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Keeping It Civil the Case of the Pre Nup & the Porsche & Other True Accounts From the Files of a Family Lawyer
by
Margaret Klaw
njcur
, August 07, 2013
Margaret Klaw is a good storyteller. This was a very enjoyable book. I liked seeing behind the scenes of family law. It read a little bit like a serialized novel in that the main case narrative was interrupted with interesting facts about how the courts work. These asides did not appear to relate to the case however. They were very interesting tidbits and I was startled to learn about them for the first time. It did keep me turning pages. I'm grateful to Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to review this book before publication.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
30 Day Praise Challenge
by
Becky Harling
njcur
, July 27, 2013
I found in reading and practicing with this book that Praise is very close to Gratitude. I have always agreed with Meister Eckhart when he said "If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice." So this was right up my street. It would be nice if it came packaged with a CD containing the music suggested for each day. I was not able to participate in the musical part of the meditations because I couldn't easily access the songs. Online sources are listed at the back of the book to help, but I had trouble integrating them into my quiet time. The prayers and thoughts for the day were helpful. A lovely book. I received this as a gift from Netgalley.com.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Saffron Cross
by
J. Dana Trent
njcur
, July 26, 2013
I did like this book even though I was shocked to find that they have only been married just over two years. I was frustrated by the fact that Fred was allowed to mock Dana's beliefs during a worship service (laughing at hymn #666). Dana, however, was chastised for making errors in ignorance during Hindu retreats. I had hoped that Fred would accompany Dana on a Christian retreat as she went to so many Hindu events. I was also saddened that Dana seemed to perceive Christianity as a Sunday religion and not as a daily practice. That has not been my experience. The bible does instruct us to "pray without ceasing". This was an interesting look at Hinduism from a Christian perspective. I hope that Dana will consider sharing more after they have celebrated a 10th or 20th anniversary. I'd love to hear how this lovely partnership weathers the years. I hope it grows, flourishes and mellows.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Praying for Strangers: An Adventure of the Human Spirit
by
River Jordan
njcur
, July 26, 2013
Lovely book. Very inspiring. I liked the short chapters that made it a perfect bedtime read. Each chapter is a story of one of the strangers she met. She recounts the challenges and triumphs. I did wonder if she ever ran into someone who was upset or angry at her approach. She never mentioned anything like that. The uplifting message made for a pleasant night and encouragement for the morning. I definitely want to try my own resolution. What a gift River Jordan has given the world if just a few of us continue her challenge to pray for strangers that cross our paths!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore
by
Robin Sloan
njcur
, July 25, 2013
Five and a half stars! What a delight! Ari Fliakos really brought this book to life with his reading. The perfect voice for this wonderful story. I would put on my earbuds and a smile would fill my face. I just couldn't wait to get back to the tale. Robin Sloan's writing is wonderful, creative, funny, down to earth and high flying all at the same time. My husband and I both listened. We were delighted when one of us would get ahead of the other. We would then have a chance to listen to the previous chapter a second time. So fun to laugh out loud together. Really a lovely uplifting book. Pick it up! It will make your day!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Three Graves Full
by
Jamie Mason
njcur
, July 25, 2013
What a romp! It had some moments at the beginning that reminded me of Woody Allen and made me uncomfortable as his movies often do. But then it took off! Quite a boisterous laugh filled page turner. The comparison with the Cohen Brothers films is apt. I would highly recommend to anyone who's not too squeamish and looking for escape. I'm still puzzling over my feelings about the end.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Afternoon of the Elves
by
Janet Taylor Lisle
njcur
, July 13, 2013
This is a book that I remember from childhood. I was so impressed as a child at all that Sara-Kate was able to do (as was Hillary). As a kid I was disappointed that Sara-Kate was rescued, as an adult it was clear that someone needed to help. I'm sorry that there was not an epilogue that would tell us how Sara-Kate is doing. This book was wonderful both times I read it. This is remarkable for a book to work so well in childhood and as an adult. It is a good book to read with a child.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Watching The English The Hidden Rules Of
by
Kate Fox
njcur
, July 06, 2013
This book was great! I kept having to go into the other room and interrupt my husband's music to read passages to him. I got great laughs throughout. I read a lot of English fiction and enjoy English television. This opened up these worlds and gives new depth to what I'm reading and watching. I highly recommend it!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Astronaut Wives Club: A True Story
by
Koppel, Lily
njcur
, July 02, 2013
Here is a first attempt at reality television. These women were on center stage as the world watched their husbands risk their lives in the US quest for the moon. It was great to get to know these powerful women in a time before Women's Liberation. They were expected to be perfect housewives and role models. The early years were fascinating as these women stepped from obscure military wives to wives of mega stars. I was a little disappointed in the coverage of the later years and especially Apollo 13. It is a captivating story that really kept me turning pages.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Dog Called Homeless
by
Sarah Lean
njcur
, June 06, 2013
What a dear sweet story! A quick read with short chapters that gather you in. Lovely characters. A young girl who has lost her mother to a car accident stops talking. This is her story and that of her family and friends and an Irish Wolfhound named Homeless. I was really touched. It had me in tears.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Glimpses of the Moon 9 Gervase Fen
by
Edmund Crispin
njcur
, June 05, 2013
This was a very fun book. It took me a little while to get into it, but it was worth the trouble. Great characters, good story, lots of laughs. I was very glad to have it on my eReader. Edmund Crispin uses a lot of archaic language. Having a dictionary at my fingertips was really helpful. I really enjoyed this book and am ready to read it again. My enthusiasm convinced my husband to read it. I'll be glad to have someone to share it with. Thank you to NetGalley for introducing me to this delightful book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Saddest Girl in the World: The True Story of a Neglected and Isolated Little Girl Who Just Wanted to Be Loved
by
Cathy Glass
njcur
, June 04, 2013
Cathy Glass is a foster parent in Britain. I really liked Tory Hayden's books about her experiences as a teacher of emotionally disturbed children. This was great to see how these children are treated in another country. It was a very good read. I love the way the British use language. It was fun to notice the differences in American and British English. I really felt for this lovely and troubled child. It was nice that she included an epilogue so we could see how this child had grown. I'm very glad to have found this new author. I will look for more by her.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Last Dragonslayer 01 Chronicles of Kazam
by
Jasper Fforde
njcur
, June 04, 2013
I have loved Jasper Fforde's adult books and am delighted to see him branching out to children's books. This book was fabulous. I loved the characters and the wild and wacky world. Fforde has a logic of his own and he is a master storyteller. I have added it to the library's collection because I know kids will love it. A wonderful book for a rainy day! I hope there will be more!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Anton and Cecil, Book 1: Cats at Sea
by
Lisa Martin and Valerie Martin
njcur
, May 28, 2013
I'm not a big fan of books with anthropomorphic animals, but this was great fun. The language is lovely and the descriptions are delightful. The animals do very animal like things, but we are privy to their thoughts. These two brothers are very lovable. The adventure very real though at points it stretches into the fantastic. Thank you Algonquin for sharing this wonderful title with me through NetGalley. It is great to see this wonderful publisher branching out into children's books.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Little Leftover Witch
by
Florence Laughlin
njcur
, May 25, 2013
I loved this book as a child. It is very sweet and comforting. I appreciated the fact that the family loved the little witch even if she did bad things she would be forgiven. The parents were so matter of fact about the little witch's sudden appearance. This will be a good book to recommend to some of the homeschooling parents that come into my library. I am grateful to Edelweiss for giving me a review copy of this book. It was really wonderful to relive this story as an adult. It made me curious about Seven Cousins another title by Florence Laughlin that was mentioned at the end of this book. I will be looking for it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Into the Silence the Great War Mallory & the Conquest of Everest
by
Wade Davis
njcur
, May 23, 2013
A stunning book worthy of its topic. Wade Davis's writing is exquisite. His research is impeccable. He spent ten years researching and writing this book and it shows in the excellence of the book. I was sorry that there were not better maps on the end papers. But we dragged out the atlas and followed along. My husband and I were both listening to this book and were happy to listen twice when one of us got ahead of the other. Enn Reitel is a wonderful reader. We did feel like we wanted the print book available to look back and sometimes to follow along. The notes and index are extensive and worth taking the time to read. I'm so glad that I picked up this book. It is a treasure.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Jayber Crow
by
Wendell Berry
njcur
, May 21, 2013
This book is so full and so rich that I just wanted to wallow in it. I have never read a book so full of Life. I loved the writing, the characters, the atmosphere, the relaxed pace, the beauty, the sadness and the joy. I really wanted to sit on the porch and have a conversation with this man. Thank you Wendell Berry. You are amazing.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Not Just Anybody Family
by
Betsy Byars
njcur
, May 21, 2013
This book takes off like a rocket and what a ride! Kids that fly and break into jail. A dog on his own and a family reunion. A great group of characters. I can't wait to meet them again.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Three Ring Rascals 01 The Show Must Go On
by
Kate Klise, M Sarah Klise
njcur
, May 16, 2013
Three and a half stars. Very quick read with great illustrations that draw one into the story. A great mean baddie who learns his lesson. Wild adventures on a circus train and a lovely reunion and all is well. I look forward to more from this series. I think they will be loved by kids. Algonquin keeps it high editorial quality as it moves into children's books. I'm delighted to see this new expansion and wish them well. Thank you to NetGalley for offering me a chance to read this new title.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Finding Your Voice in the Psalms: An Invitation to Honest Prayer
by
Elizabeth Canham
njcur
, May 15, 2013
This is a small but Mighty book. I really found great depth in the exercises Ms Canham offered. Her writing is very accessible and her ideas refreshing. I found new ways of approaching the Psalms and new avenues to communion with the Divine. I would highly recommend this to anyone seeking more breadth in their personal worship. She also offers practices for small groups. I look forward to trying these with small groups from my Quaker Meeting. I can see I will need multiple copies for family and friends. I'm grateful that NetGalley gave me a digital copy to introduce me to this wonderful author.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Help Thanks Wow the Three Essential Prayers
by
Anne Lamott
njcur
, March 27, 2013
Wow! They say good things come in small packages and this is it! I have been recommending this book to all of my friends. I think it will be a great Help for everyone who picks it up. Anne Lamott has written a classic with this lovely title. I was really touched by the depth of this small book. And yet it has a lightness and a humor that makes it an easy and wonderful read. Thanks!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Scent of Water
by
Elizabeth Goudge
njcur
, March 07, 2013
I am very sorry for this to end. It was really wonderful. It is very sweet and old fashioned with a spiritual atmosphere and it really touched me. Elizabeth Goudge has some great insights and several quotes that I don't want to forget. I read an old library copy and actually liked some of the notations that were written by a previous borrower. I may need to own this one. I see the paperback reprint has the subtitle... "A Captivating Story Filled With English Charm, Luminous Wisdom, and Astonishing Spiritual Insight" which says it nicely. Amazon thinks Miss Read lovers would enjoy it. I think there is more depth to this book than in Miss Read's writing, though I love her too. More soul searching in the characters than I remember in Miss Read. I'll have to read another Thrush Green book next and see.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Watching the English The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour
by
Kate Fox
njcur
, February 22, 2013
This book was great! I kept having to go into the other room and interrupt my husband's music to read passages to him. I got great laughs throughout. I read a lot of English fiction and enjoy English television. This opened up these worlds and gives new depth to what I'm reading and watching. I highly recommend it!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Miss Buncles Book
by
D E Stevenson
njcur
, January 16, 2013
This is my favorite book of the year. I loved the world and was sad to see it go. I'm so glad to see this series back in print.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Eighty Dollar Champion Snowman the Horse that Inspired a Nation
by
Elizabeth Letts
njcur
, January 16, 2013
I won this as a First Reads book. I feel very lucky to have won. It is a wonderful book of loyalty, love and working together to achieve a dream. The background information was enlightening and didn't detract from the tale. I loved the suspense she built at the shows. The story of this family working together is touching. There were some great laughs and the relationship between man and horse brought tears to my eyes. This will be a terrific gift for all the horse lovers in your life. I'm going to look and see what else I can find by this author.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Forgotten
by
Cat Patrick
njcur
, December 19, 2012
I found Forgotten to be a real page turner. It was hard to put down. Fascinating idea to have one's mind wiped clean each night. Though it was repetitive I liked the idea of her meeting her boyfriend again for the first time each day. I would have liked a clearer resolution of the mystery within the story. Maybe the author plans another book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Chomp
by
Carl Hiaasen
njcur
, December 19, 2012
I am delighted to see a new book from this wonderful author. May he live and write a very long time. This is Hiaasen at his best. Fun plot, great laughs, thrilling suspense, wildlife avenged, and bad guys get their due. As a librarian I will be sure to add this to my collection with multiple copies. The kids will love it!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Meeting God Bible-NRSV: Growing in Intimacy with God Through Scripture
by
Upper Room Books
njcur
, December 13, 2012
I contacted Timothy Jones because I was brokenhearted that the Spiritual Formation Bible had gone out of print. He was kind enough to let me know that it is now available as the Meeting God Bible from Upper Room Books. I am delighted. Now if only I could get this electronically. This bible has by far the best notes I have ever read. They really take you deeper into the scriptures and help you to come closer the the Divine. I have given many copies to friends and family. I have both the NIV translation as well as the NRSV. They are both terrific. I wish I could get this as an ebook. It would be great to be able to always have it with me.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Great Unexpected
by
Sharon Creech
njcur
, November 04, 2012
What a writer! Sharon Creech is amazing. I will highly recommend this book to readers of all ages. Ms. Creech creates really full and believable characters. They are people you hope to meet in person. She has written a wonderful page turning mystery with lots of laugh out loud moments. Her short chapters and dueling storylines really kept me captivated while not sacrificing a terrific depth of feeling. I really hated for the story to end. I hope she will let us know more about these endearing characters in future books.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Altar in the World A Geography of Faith
by
Barbara Brown Taylor
njcur
, January 01, 2011
Very thoughtful book. A great read for the New Year. It gave me directions to make my life more meaningful without being sappy or impossible. Try it. You'll find joy and peace where you least expect it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Remember Me A Lively Tour Of The New American Way of Death
by
Lisa Takeuch Cullen
njcur
, May 12, 2010
Such a fascinating book! Who knew there were so many choices. Lively reading and a real conversation starter. I was asking everyone I knew if they had heard or one method or another to handle the loss of a loved one. I lost my father this year and this was wonderful, funny, poignant, and completely captivating. Great to share.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Treasure
by
Uri Shulevitz
njcur
, January 24, 2010
Where is your treasure? This is a great book to discover with a child. Together you can find the real treasures in your lives. Take a beautiful trip through the pages of this wonderful book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
How I Learned Geography: (Caldecott Honor Book)
by
Uri Shulevitz
njcur
, January 24, 2010
Uri Shulevitz has done it again. He creates the most beautiful books. This wonderful story comes from his own life. It is charming and haunting. I just want to runaway into the pictures. Truly a delight.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
William S. and the Great Escape
by
Zilpha Keatley Snyder
njcur
, January 24, 2010
Zilpha Keatley Snyder is a wonderful writer. This is her latest book. A wonderful adventure and a fresh look at Shakespeare all in one. If you haven't read her before you can start with this one. It is wonderful and will leave you wanting to read everything she has written.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Classic Starts Pollyanna
by
Eleanor Porter
njcur
, January 24, 2010
With all the books promoting gratitude, it is time to go back to the original. Pollyanna has been a favorite of mine since childhood. It is the perfect book when I'm feeling down. There is always something to be "glad" about. I am forever grateful that this book came into my life. I'm sure you will be too.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 8 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Raney
by
Clyde Edgerton
njcur
, January 24, 2010
What happens when a liberal Episcopalian marries a conservative Baptist in a small southern town? laughter, wit, tears and deep pondering. What a fun and full read. You'll love it as much as I did. I've shared it with many friends and we talk of it all the time.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 5 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Rain of Gold
by
Victor Villasenor
njcur
, January 24, 2010
Economic times are hard right now. This book will give you a wonderful new way to look at the world when things feel bleak. The characters will fill you with light and joy. I really loved this book. You will too. Pick it up and find a fresh start. It will make your day!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Sunlight Cafe Breakfast Served All Day
by
Mollie Katzen
njcur
, December 23, 2009
This book has not only great recipes, but also hints for altering and improving the basics. Really delicious and creative. Beautifully laid out. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but we often race off with just coffee. This book will inspire you and give you a reason to get up in the morning.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(5 of 8 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Executed on a Technicality: Lethal Injustice on America's Death Row
by
David R. Dow
njcur
, August 15, 2009
You've heard of criminals that "got off on a technicality" Did you know that people can get killed the same way? This is a very thought provoking book written by a lawyer that had been a death penalty supporter until he came to see the flaws in our system. It is very different from the usual stories about the death penalty. A very readable and very real look at how our courts work. Executed on a Technicality is a must read that points out a problem that we must fix.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Heart in the Right Place
by
Carolyn Jourdan
njcur
, August 15, 2009
This book is perfectly named. It is a really wonderful story of a woman struggling to find the right place for her heart. It is roll-on-the-floor hysterical and very touching at the same time. I have been reading small pieces of it to all of my friends and family. I'll have to get a bunch for Christmas presents too. It was truly a joy to read.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(5 of 9 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Theres No Such Thing As Ghosts
by
Emmanuelle Eeckhout
njcur
, August 08, 2009
What a delightful little book! A very fun story told with such wonderful illustrations I love to read it over and over. If you aren't sure if ghosts are real after this book I recommend that you read "Ghosts in the House!" by Kazuno Kohara. Another wonderful children's book that will show you what you can do with a ghost.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Anguished English An Anthology of Accidental Assualts Upon Our Language
by
Richard Lederer
njcur
, August 03, 2009
Need a laugh? Here it is! We bet our friends a free dinner that they cannot read aloud without laughing "The History of the World According to Student Bloopers". We haven't had to pay out yet! Get it! It will make your day! Remember laughter is the best medicine.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Ghosts In The House
by
Kazuno Kohara
njcur
, August 03, 2009
Kids wish that every day would be Halloween. Here is a book that will make you wish the same. This beautiful and surprising book about a house full of ghosts made me laugh out loud. I read it aloud to everyone and they all loved it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Unquiet Mind
by
Kay Redfield Jamison
njcur
, July 18, 2009
What is it like to be inside the mind of a person with bipolar disorder? Do you know someone that suffers with the problem? Ever wonder why they don't seem to want to take their meds or seem in denial of their disease? Here is the real story from someone who has been there. This book is a real eye opener. I highly recommend it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of Western North America
by
National Geographic Society, Jon L Dunn
njcur
, July 18, 2009
This is a beautiful as well as very useful book. Very nicely bound trade paperback. It has wonderful illustration with descriptions and maps right across from the plates. Great tabs allow quick access to sections. The plates show birds in flight as well as at rest and often include small close ups of feathers or beaks or other small areas where a slight variation can really help identification. The index is clear with Latin and common names for birds. Really easy to use. A must addition to any birder's library.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(5 of 5 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Island Of Horses
by
Eilis Dillon
njcur
, June 19, 2009
This is a ripping good yarn! Filled with great atmosphere and lots of adventure. I couldn't put it down! Try it ... you'll be glad you did!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 3 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Swallows & Amazons 01
by
Arthur Ransome
njcur
, June 17, 2009
This is a perfect summer read for everyone. A great book to take on a road trip and read with the whole family. Lots of fun and adventure and mystery. I can't wait to read the next one.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 4 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Shadow Divers The True Adventure of Two Americans Who Risked Everything to Solve One of the Last Mysteries of World War II
by
Robert Kurson
njcur
, June 17, 2009
What a fascinating world! Learn about deep sea diving and puzzle over the mysteries they uncover. It was a whole new world for me. Great read!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Kitchen Table Wisdom & My Grandfathers Blessings
by
Rachel Naomi Remen
njcur
, May 26, 2009
What a treasure to have both of these wonderful books together in one package! I read these over and over. The stories her grandfather told her are really inspiring. Her work with chronically ill patients gives us all hope.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
School Story
by
Andrew Clements
njcur
, May 04, 2009
How can children find a way to communicate with busy parents? Here is a unique solution! It is also a fascinating look at how publishing works. A jewel of a novel. Fun for all ages.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 3 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Sarahs Key
by
Tatiana de Rosnay
njcur
, May 04, 2009
A stunning first novel. It really grabs you and sucks you in. Two intertwined stories that really touch your heart and fill you with hope for us all.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog & Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrists Notebook What Traumatized Children Can Teach Us about Loss Love &
by
Bruce Perry
njcur
, April 21, 2009
How resilient are small children? This book will give you an insight. A good storyteller shares his experiences and research. If you liked A Child Called "It" you will really enjoy this and learn from it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(0 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Wild Trees A Story of Passion & Daring
by
Richard Preston
njcur
, April 14, 2009
What a fascinating world there is at the tops of trees! Who knew?! Very entertaining, informative,suspenseful, and captivating. I highly recommend it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(3 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Maisie Dobbs: Maisie Dobbs 1
by
Jacqueline Winspear
njcur
, April 14, 2009
This is a very entertaining mystery and a wonderfully in depth look at a forgotten past. Well written and a great book on many levels. One of my favorite books of the past couple of years.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 7 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Ender Quartet 4 Volumes
by
Orson Scott Card
njcur
, April 08, 2009
Orson Scott Card has created a fascinating new world. All of his books made me think in new ways about topics that I had not considered in depth. I love these books that challenge our preconceived notions and help us to stretch our imaginations. Each time I read them I find more to explore! I hope he keeps writing for a long time.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 4 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Feed
by
M T Anderson
njcur
, April 08, 2009
This is a really good look at advertising and where it is going. Technology and its consequences and what happens to those who try to buck the system. Very disturbing. A great conversation starter!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(8 of 15 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
End of the Beginning Being the Adventures of a Small Snail & an Even Smaller Ant
by
Avi
njcur
, February 05, 2009
What fun! What giggles! What joy! Such great adventures! Everyone will love this wonderful book!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Persian Pickle Club
by
Sandra Dallas
njcur
, January 28, 2009
A quilting club with a new member gradually reveals a mystery. Great story. Fun read.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 4 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian
by
Sherman Alexie
njcur
, January 28, 2009
Really amazing book. Good to hear the story of an American Indian told by Native American. Funny sad amazing.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(16 of 26 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Seasons of Grace: The Life-Giving Practice of Gratitude
by
Alan Jones and John O'Neil
njcur
, October 24, 2008
A wonderful book to open your eyes to all that you have to be grateful for in any circumstances.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 2 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society
by
Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Shaffer
njcur
, October 16, 2008
What a delicious book. It takes you to a place you don't want to leave. I highly recommend this for everyone.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(15 of 21 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
5 In 10 Cookbook 5 Ingredients In 10 Minutes
by
Paula J Hamilton
njcur
, October 13, 2008
Finally a cookbook with great recipes that I feel like cooking after a hard day at work! It really is 5 great ingredients in 10 minutes. No velveeta and macaroni here. Really delicious recipes with fine ingredients
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(2 of 3 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
New Kings Of Nonfiction
by
Glass, Ira
njcur
, September 23, 2008
Ira Glass of "This American Life" has collected some fascinating essays in this volume. An inside look at many things. Really a great read!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 14 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Girl of the Limberlost
by
Gene Stratton Porter
njcur
, September 08, 2008
This is a wonderful book. A beautiful world and an intriguing story. I just love this book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(4 of 6 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Edens Outcasts The Story of Louisa May Alcott & Her Father
by
John Matteson
njcur
, August 22, 2008
This is a fascinating book about the Alcott family. Louisa based her book Little Women on her family. A family way ahead of their time. Bronson Alcott was an educator who taught children with the Socratic method, encouraging children to have conversations about all sorts of topics. He lost his school in 1839 because he allowed a black child to enroll. He was also great friends with many well known transendentalists most notably Ralph Waldo Emerson. The relationship between Louisa and her father is very interesting. They died within days of each other.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 3 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Singing Creek Where The Willows Grow The Mystical Nature Diary of Opal Whiteley
by
Opal Whiteley
njcur
, August 06, 2008
This is a really wonderful diary of a young girl growing up in a logging town in Oregon in the early 1900s. Her views and insights are remarkable. She has a lovely view of nature and the world around her. It has long been a favorite of mine. I'm sure you will love it.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(8 of 12 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Little White Horse
by
Elizabeth Goudge
njcur
, August 06, 2008
This was a truly delightful book. It was brought back into print when J.K.Rowling the author of the Harry Potter books said that it was her favorite book as a child. Elizabeth Goudge created a world I didn't want to leave.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(6 of 14 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment