Customer Comments

Such a gorgeous book! The Christmas Mystery is appropriate for all ages, and focuses on the story of the birth of Christ. The tale unfolds in the form of chapters that correspond with a child's special Advent calendar. I'm having a hard time putting it down, but it would make a lovely family experience to read a chapter a day up to Christmas. Beautifully written and full of faith, mystery, and fun- a top notch holiday read.

With her third book in the Madame Chic series, Jennifer L. Scott has again created a volume full of inspiration.In a literary world chock full of Francophile style books, she sets herself apart by offering content with substance. Scott's books emphasize cultivating a true sense of one's self. She advocates arriving at "style" via experiences, self improvement, and exploration of integrity in all daily life experiences.

The Oh She Glows cookbook is an absolute gem whether you are vegan or not. Every single recipe I've tried has been delicious, and many have been added into permanent kitchen rotation. Angela Liddon's recipes are elevated enough that seasoned home cooks will find their creativity sparked, and at the same time, even beginner cooks will find the instructions and ingredients accessible. The dishes are extremely healthy and hearty. Many freeze well or multiply to feed a party as easily as small family. I just can't rave enough. As a longtime cookbook fan, it's rare now to find a new volume that really delights. Oh She Glows fits the bill exceptionally.

The hype around this book is hard to escape. While reading it, I vacillated between thinking the author was a bit of a nut, and alternately jumping out of my chair to go tidy something. Marie Kondo's methods are very specific and, as many reviewers have noted, somewhat obsessive at times. That being said, she is extremely motivational and can communicate her intentions with quite a bit of warmth and personality. I'd say this book is most definitely worth a read, whether you decide to go "KonMarie" full force, or simply pick and choose a few useful tenets of the tidying magic.

I picked up Everybody Rise after seeing it mentioned in several different book reviews. Blurbs included reference to Edith Wharton's literary world, and the setting of socialite Manhattan circa 2006 was too much to resist. Stephanie Clifford takes readers on quite a ride with main character, Evelyn Beegan. Evelyn is a twenty-something young woman from a wealthy but odd family. The story follows her as she navigates career, relationships, and the choices we all must make as we establish who we are. The plot and characters are not always likable, but the story draws readers in so that putting down the book unfinished becomes unthinkable.

As with all of Sarah Waters' novels, I absolutely could not step away from The Night Watch. It's beautifully written, and the seamless way the author ties the story together is thrilling as it progresses. Set in WWII era London, the cast of characters is a diverse assortment of women with whom readers will very quickly engage. Highly recommended reading for war buffs, historical fiction fans, and lovers of a good story.

Audrey Hepburn, An Elegant Spirit, is a beautifully written memoir and biography from a son's perspective. As a Hepburn fan, it was a relief to read Ferrer's assurances that though his mother was a human being with her own struggles, she truly embodied the kind and loving spirit assigned to her public persona. This book is a lovely balance of text and photos, including snippets of letters and other interesting documents. It's a fun read, even for Hepburn fans who feel like they've seen it all, and a quality addition to any home collection.

"Above and below stairs, we all share the duty of keeping the house in good order..." Downton Abbey, Rules for Household Staff is a delightful little book. Penned in the voice of Mr. Carson, Butler to the Earl of Grantham, this volume is both a treat for television fans and a great insight for lovers of history and bygone customs. The chapters are fun and informative, providing an approachable look into the day to day existence in the great houses of Britain's yesteryear. A top notch read!

Holistic Beauty is a really lovely book. There are tons of natural beauty guides available these days, but Julie Gabriel has really created a new collection of information and recipes. She emphasizes, correctly, that Holistic Beauty is not just a reprise of the standard home remedies. The science, research, and tone of the book is truly for today's culture and lifestyle. This is a terrific guide to keep close by for a full spectrum beauty and health routine.

I loved Redefining Realness. Janet Mock's story is very easy to identify with, which may sound odd at first since the crux of this biography is something many people will never experience: life as a transgender person. It doesn't take long within the pages of the book to recognize the experiences of gender, identity, acceptance, love, family, and growth that are universal. Mock presents her journey beautifully, with compelling personal words alongside some hard-hitting factual realities about the lives of LGBT youth in our society. A detail that drew me in further is Mock's powerful use of quotes from her favorite authors and books. She has woven together an eloquent, vulnerable, and amazingly powerful story with courage and some crying/laughing moments along the way. I am truly thankful that this book exists to educate and create much needed connections for all people alike.

An absolute revelation from one of my favorite writers! Michelle Tea is the author of several memoirs, novels, and poetry books. How To Grow Up picks up on the memoir end of things to continue her story into adulthood. This book is a gift and a resource for all of us semi-adults who identified with the author's experiences in Valencia, The Chelsea Whistle, The Beautiful, and so on. When we last read her biographical words, Tea was scrounging around San Francisco and beyond, writing and engaging in the general twenty-something chaos of drugs, partying, and wild women. This book shares the journey into full fledged grown-up land, with all of Tea's characteristic honesty and dark humor. It's truly a gift from the author, a book to be savored when you want to just gobble it all up in one reading. The adult Tea would be proud of such restraint...

Reading this books is like biting into a sweet treat and realizing that not only is it beautifully frosted, it's full of exotic and special ingredients. I actually stopped and reread whole sections just to soak in the descriptions of Youthquake era life. The characters are developed well, and the locales from rural English countryside to Swinging London are intoxicating. This book is also a delight for any fans of Rice's The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets, as some key characters turn up again. The Misinterpretation of Tara Jupp is a book to savor, a thick novel in which to get blissfully lost.

At Home With Madame Chic, the follow up to the well-received Lessons From Madame Chic by Jennifer L. Scott, is a delightful read. Scott advocates a return to more dignified living, but presents her case with refreshingly modern and thoughtful twists. This pretty little book's pages cover everything from meditation to recipes, with stops off on wardrobe, parenting, confidence, and even music recommendations. The author has her own distinct and classic style, but offers versatile templates for anyone seeking to add ease, beauty, and a sense of personal satisfaction to daily life. My favorite aspect of this book is that through all the discussion of finer things, better wardrobes, and sophisticated tastes, the author gently but continually emphasizes that gratitude and wellness from within are the true keys to je ne sais quoi.

"Glorious" would not be too high praise for this book. Maeve Binchy's way of weaving together a story is nothing short of masterful. The residents of Shancarrig are each given a chapter, with the story forming along the way. The Copper Beech is a beautiful story of humanity, family, and hope. The only negative to express is regret that Binchy passed away, leaving no more stories for her many fans.

Summer at Tiffany is a delightful read. Written some sixty years after the events it's based on, the book is a gorgeous recollection of Marjorie Hart's summer as one of the first female employees to work on the Tiffany's floor. Her personal experiences are rich, and the backdrop of 1940's New York is simply irresistible. Hart, now 90, is an accomplished musician as well as an enchanting writer who certainly brings the past to life. Summer at Tiffany is a treasure trove of both personal memories and tales of a bygone era in one of the most iconic cities in the world. Just lovely!

The Professor's House is stunning in it's description and insight. Willa Cather is able to set seemingly mundane scenes, then turn perceptions upside down with sharp observations and the subtly cutting wit. I found myself laughing, re-reading, and then laughing again when presented with the characters and their very palpable humanness. St. Peter and his wife, who remind me somewhat of Gabriel Garcia Marquez's couple in Love In The Time Of Cholera, epitomize the dance of a maturing relationship. Their daughters and sons-in-law represent a younger generation's successes and stumbles. This book is a treasure in it's complete summation of dreams and the realities woven within our desires.

There are so many "How To Be..." books out there, especially along the lines of femininity and charm. This little volume really stands apart as a well-researched and beautifully written book full of real inspiration. Audrey Hepburn's life experiences and stories are presented in an entertaining way, and the author goes a little deeper into what made Hepburn so timeless. This is a perfect read for biographical interest as well as lovely life lessons, and the enchanting pictures just top it all off. Highly recommended!

Francesca Lia Block's writing held me enthralled as a teenager, and remains intoxicating to me now as a 36 year old. I loved this prequel to the Weetzie Bat series. The Dangerous Angels characters, all so well thought out and layered, feel like old friends. Pink Smog tells the story of the early adolescent Weezie, and the effect is totally charming. As Weetzie would say, the book is slinkster cool!

Courageous, inspiring, and down to earth! View Albertine' s book is chock full of good stories- especially for fans of fashion and music. She goes into delicious detail about the people and experiences in her life, and provides the soundtrack and wardrobe to go along. Recognizable cultural names like Sid Vicious, Biba, The Clash, Vivienne Westwood, Poly Styrene, Patti Smith, and many more are covered, but the story never loses its very approachable and personal quality. Highly recommended for music fans, culture junkies, and anyone appreciative of the transformative power of reinvention.

This is a lovely little book of erotica. The excerpts are thoughtfully chosen, creating a diverse collection whose quality and sensuality are the common factors. Erotic Stories, with its variety and focus on well-written pieces, is definitely a standout among erotica anthologies.

Francesca Lia Block has written another lush novel set in her classic enchanting yet dark Los Angeles. Julie is a girl finding her way after a great loss, and the path she takes, while painful, allows for a beautiful rebirth. Block offers her signature style while still creating a fresh excitement in her writing. Literally spellbinding enough to be a one-sitting read, Teen Spirit is a full sensory experience for teens and adults alike.

Lauren Myracle's Shine is a YA fiction book that overall transcends it's genre. Part social commentary, part teen story, it comes together to address the issue of violence against gay teens in a very personal way. Myracle works in culture, social class, religion, and opportunity (or lack thereof) to offer a seamless story of coming of age in small town America. Shine combines a little Dorothy Allison and a little Millenial commentary. Myracle offers a satisfying balance to the sensitive issues of hate crime, teen sexuality, and rural poverty while somehow creating a very uplifting story.

Cavedweller is just a stunning read. I've been a longtime fan of Dorothy Allison's non-fiction, and this is my first foray into her much celebrated work as a novelist. Delia Byrd is a character you can't break away from, and her friends and family are as real as any walking around you while you hold this book. A layered tale, a generational legacy, and a very palpable experience all reside within the pages of Cavedweller.

Stir Fry is a gorgeous novel full of rich characters and description. Part coming of age, part coming out story, Stir Fry is laden with tactile description and universal experiences. The characters are treasures and the story memorable. Great read!

An inspirational read, this book walks readers through lifestyle simplification in a very accessible way. Tammy Strobel strikes just the right tone with fact-based information and the inclusion of real life stories. There are so many books out there on decluttering, simplifying, and minimalism, but this one really stands out as a useful and engaging read. It's worth keeping for reference and motivation in the process of taking control of your life experiences and letting go of all the extraneous stuff.

Elizabeth Cline weighs in on "fast fashion" with a fresh voice and frame of reference that is highly appealing to me as reader and consumer. She explores the history of the fashion trade in depth and presents it alongside the state of design, manufacturing, and sales today. Lots of eye opening names and numbers are discussed in terms of the changes both behind the scenes and in our spending and wearing trends. Overdressed is a truly valuable read whether you are looking to invest in high quality pieces or change your consumption based on ethics and human welfare. Cline presents the facts without getting preachy, and without presenting much of an agenda beyond clarifying many aspects of the clothing industry- definitely a worthwhile read.

Lessons From Madame Chic is a lovely little read. Perfect for fans of Mireille Guiliano and other authors who have offered books for American women looking to add a little French style into daily life. What sets Madame Chic apart is Jennifer Scott's very contemporary and approachable tone. Certainly she lays down some non-negotiables regarding style, etiquette, and so on. The charm is that she delivers these guidelines with humor, grace, and some giggle-worthy personal anecdotes to make them digestible and applicable (Keep an eye out for the underwear dinner party story!)This books is educational reminder of how to create a more elegant and enjoyable life, all while being a treat and a pleasure to read.

I sat down with Fairyland early this morning, and am writing this review at 4:30 p.m. the same day. Alysia Abbott instantly pulled me in with her perfectly balanced mixture of thoughtful observation and emotionally drenched description of life with her father in the San Francisco of decades past. I couldn't put the book down today, but I know I'll reread it for the sake of exploring all the names and events mentioned throughout the story. Abbott tells an honest and unique story that will hopefully take it's place among the body of work addressing the cultural and personal experiences of a community tragic in it's losses, but indelibly beautiful at it's core.

Just gorgeous! I first encountered Gabriel Garcia Marquez in the form of One Hundred Years of Solitude, a book I reread regularly. Its magic stayed with me, so I was delighted to begin another book by the author. Love in the Time of Cholera is just as magical, witty, layered, and memorable. The characters are deeply explored, with the settings and plot given just as much loving attention. This book is a journey you will want to take again and again.

Veganist is a great book full of solid information, anecdotes from real people, and workable solutions to the challenges of converting to a plant-based life style. Kathy Freston writes in a personable voice and backs up her talking points with facts from well respected researchers and activists. Veganist is a terrific resource to have in the pursuit of a healthier life!

A gorgeous book! The Apothecary is billed as young adult fiction, but will satisfy imaginative readers of any age. The story is part snapshot of post-war London, part social commentary, and part modern day fairy tale. Vibrant description, memorable character, and a truly unique plot make The Apothecary a truly satisfying read.

Carry The One is a top notch novel from start to finish. Anshaw weaves together a rich story that spans years and generations. The tale follows the lives of a group of family and friends linked by one bittersweet and tragic night. The book was hard to put down and definitely made me interested in reading more of the authors work. Anshaw's writing is rife with thick description and conveys a tone eloquent and approachable at once.

7 is a life changer! Jen Hatmaker set out to address seven life areas over seven months to suss out areas of excess, situations of confused priorities, and just to clarify/simplify life in general. Her commentary is honest and hilarious as she traverses everything from Chick-Fil-A withdrawal to the heartwrenching process of adopting babies from Ethiopia. She conveys her experience and the takeaways in a compassionate, non-judgmental tone, create a wild desire in me as a reader to embark on my own 7 experiment. Avoid this book if you aren't ready for some awesome shifts in perspective and habit!

This book perfectly captures the essence the tug o' war of emotions otherwise known as the mother/daughter relationship. Alison Bechdel intersperses her own coming to terms/coming out experiences with her relationship with her mom, all funneled through years of therapy. It's weighty stuff that all comes together to create a crisp and pleasing tale of growing up and growing into the layered people we are.

Fun Home is absolutely a "desert island" book. This one will be in my core collection, and life definitely doesn't look quite the same after experiencing it through the talented Alison Bechdel's eyes. Her presentation of her life and family is at once frank, engaging, and completely relatable. The book is like a long greedy glance into the windows of that house you were always curious about, right at dinner time when everyone's true colors are on display- it's a gem and an amazing reading experience!

Crazy Sexy Diet is an absolute bookshelf must for readers in search of enlightening health info. It is part diet, part lifestyle, all inspiring! Kris Carr speaks from a vibrant and authentic place, having experienced her own healing journey through health and nutrition. CSD includes recipes, a cleanse plan, and tons of top notch nutrition and health info- a forever favorite in my health book arsenal.

"A Novel Concerning Life, Death, Sex and Recipes in Limoges, Louisiana"... She Flew The Coop is perfect summer reading, full of all the innuendo, gossip, and good food you'd expect from a great Southern novel. The characters are at once hilarious, pitiable, and intriguing. The story will hold you until the very last page!

Go Further is a great read, especially as we enter Spring. Perfect timing for downsizing, garden-growing, and making changes to our relationship with the Earth and the people and creatures with whom we share it! The book is full of down-to-earth talk and tips on making true changes in your life to support sustainability. The fact that it is written by a celebrity fades into the background as you soak up info on food, resources, consumption habits, and more.

Notes on a Life is a really enjoyable read. Eleanor Coppola presents a vivid picture of her life as both a creative individual and a wife and mother within the famed Coppola family. She writes descriptively and with emotion. The book is a nice balance of behind the scenes looks at film-making and heartfelt discussions of personal experiences. I've gained a new appreciation and admiration for the entire family!

I picked this book up out of curiosity and began it with minimal knowledge of Diane Arbus or her work. When I turned the last page, I had absorbed a world of information not only about Arbus, but about the cultural world in which she lived and created art. Bosworth tells a very personal story of an incredibly talented and troubled artist, while accurately presenting a dynamic time in American art as well. Highly recommended, and probably one I'll read again!

Picked this book on a whim and was pleasantly suprised to find myself immersed in a pitch perfect coming of age tale. Summer somehow conveys the whismy of youth and exhaustion of adulthood with equal deftness as she tells the tale of Paige, a teenager navigating her way through high school, tense family life, and a hard-to-define relationship with an adult woman. The Silk Road sharpened my mind, entertained me, and left just the right amount of mystery untold.

Stone Butch Blues has both everything and nothing to do with sexuality and gender experiences. The character, Jess, is so utterly human and easy to relate to for anyone who has ever struggled with self vs. other. This book is absolutely beautiful from start to finish. Beauty is a strange currency to use when describing a story that includes so much pain, hatred, loneliness, and heartache, but it's the only halfway accurate way to describe the effect Feinberg's writing has on a reader. Recommended reading for anyone and everyone.

Sing You Home is just a beautifully written story. It encompasses multiple viewpoints and reflects each with compassion and sincerity, despite the fact that the characters are warring over major idealogical and emotional issues. The story is believable and touching while also being challenging and informative. The inclusion of a music CD to enrich the story just makes this book a complete pleasure to experience.

Ahh gorgeous!! This book, from the cover to the final page, held me completely entranced. Somehow Patti Smith can convey passion, pitifulness, and everything in between with grace and respect for herself and her contemporaries. This books makes you want to lay on the floor with a stack of 45's to play and just revel in all that is art and creation.

A day in the life? A snippet of time? The IHOP Papers offers an intimate glance into one girl's life, complete with troubled romance, workaday weariness, and the struggles of becoming an adult. Set in San Francisco and written in a personal tone, The IHOP papers is a wholly satisfying read.

This book is a really interesting mix of the stories of the Chicago World's fair and serial murderer H.H. Holmes. It's written in a tone that pulls you in for more, and the stories intertwine well. Makes me want to go back to Chicago and explore all these historical places and people!

Seeking Sara Summers is a great novel that deftly explores those places that all women come to in our lives. Sara explores her memories, fears, and hopes as she navigates changes occuring in her life. This novel is not only a terrific and universal story, but the setting and story are lush and well-written.

Vegan Soul Kitchen is a spot-on collection of delicious soul food favorites translated into modern vegan presentations. The flavors are familiar and memorable, made with healthy and accessible ingredients. Bryant Terry writes with warmth and personality, and the end result is an impressive cookbook filled with recipes you'll want to make again and again.

In this book, Ensler somehow has the ability to take the most heart-wrenching subjects and compile them into a book that I can't stop picking up. Insecure At Last is composed of universal subject matter honed with a very personal touch.

This book is wonderful! It's got that upscale food appeal while offering really accessible and homey recipes. Dorie Greenspan is a great storyteller as well. I can personally vouch for the fact that the Chocolate Chocolate Chunk Muffin recipe is magical!

Do yourself a favor and get a copy of this book to enjoy over and over. The Learning To Love You More website, a project of Miranda July and company, is now closed for submissions. This print version includes a sampling of the assignments from people all over the world...from photographing strangers holding hands to writing your life story in one day. The LTLYM project can be truly life changing to read about and look at.

Strange Pilgrims is a concise and enjoyable compilation of short stories Marquez wrote over several years. In the the author's own inimitable style, the foreward is just as engaging as the stories! Marquez explains the chronology of the stories and then allows the reader to each one with context in mind. The stories are complete with plots that pull the reader in with laughs, thoughts to ponder, and a lasting satisfaction once the tale has ended.