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If your preferred genre is humorous mystery, suspense, character driven novels set in & around San Francisco, be sure to discover the 'Trail of the Spellmans' by Lisa Lutz. It's difficult for me to believe that this is the sixth book in the Spellman series since I have come to know this wildly dysfunctional, highly hysterical family ever so well over the past five books & can highly recommend this book collection. BRAVA--4 stars!

Although Jennifer duBois' "Cartwheel" is loosely based on an Italian murder scandal (Amanda Knox) a few years ago, this book is fictional & oh so fascinating! Set in Buenos Aires, this tale is about main character Lily Hayes & will provide hours of discussable themes for book review clubs. I thought that this novel is not a "did she do it & is she guilty?" story but rather, it beautifully explores the 'prisons of our own making & how perceptions can sometimes create reality'.... Highly recommended - BRAVA!

I'm not sure it was worth waiting seven years for Diane Setterfield to write a new novel, no less a ghost story ... in her Bellman & Black, a coming-of-age tale, we meet young William Bellman as a boy & follow his colorful life through adulthood. This talented author has created a well researched story filled with vivid Victorian detail, a touch of fantasy, too much gothic horror and more than the average person needs to know about crows, ravens & rooks. "The Thirteenth Tale" is still my favorite!

Thank you, Penguin Group, for the ARC of the novel "419", winner of Canada's Giller Literary Prize. Author Will Ferguson had me on the 'edge of my seat' as I read this ambitious thriller with an intricate plot & four story lines ... trust me, I will never open emails from the Nigerian government as I learned that "419" refers to the section of the criminal code which pertains to obtaining goods or money under false pretenses ... not my usual genre, but thought provoking and a worthwhile read.

When I read the line "It's the best city to wander around alone because it's so beautiful you feel like it's hugging you" I already knew I was going to enjoy Hilary Reyl's "Lessons in French." Through the eyes & ears of main character, Katie, an American, the author brought Paris to life for MOI, the reader ... the vivid descriptions & sparkling witty dialogue took me on a virtual romp through the City of Lights. We are treated to some 1989 world history as the Berlin Wall is tumbling, reminders of the 'fatwa' on Salman Rushdie & beyond. The complicated Schell residence where Katie lives is 'dysfunction on steroids' with its colorful characters!! Don't miss this novel ... savoir vivre!!

As I am a voracious reader myself & have a dedicated adult son, I reacted very emotionally to Will Schwalbe's "The End of Your Life Book Club" and can highly recommend this book to one and all!

As an avid reader myself plus the parent of a loving, dedicated adult son, I could identify with the story line of "The End of Your Life Book Club" distinctly which was written so creatively! Bravo to author, Will Schwalbe & the beautiful tribute to his mother - five big stars *****

"The Last Runaway" by Tracy Chevalier I laughed, cried & cheered main character, Honor Bright, a demure English Quaker as she arrives in Ohio via a tumultuous boat ride from "across the pond". Set in the 1850's, the author presented a vividly-detailed colorful, informative fictional history highlighting the town of Oberlin & the freedom movement along the Underground Railroad. As my husband is a graduate of Oberlin College Music Conservatory, we are frequent visitors to this midwestern area.

"Love Anthony" is a fictional tale about a young boy with autism as well as epilepsy. Once again, author Lisa Genova created a heartrending novel with similar emotional piercing topics evident in her "Still Alice" and "Left Neglected" ... both not to be missed. This story is not only about autism but about motherhood, friends, relationships, healing, accepting and moving on, as well as unconditional love. It is the dramatic presentation of two women on Nantucket whose lives have been pulled apart by events unimagined by them ... and how those lives are reconstructed after pain and loss. I laughed, cried and learned so much which is always a welcome bonus for us voracious readers. Kudos & bouquets ~ highly recommended for female book review clubs.

Great debut novel which grabbed my attention from the first page ... many themes presented in this psychological fiction including siblings, musical ability (organ), music therapy to heal illness, religion, science, life/death, hypnotherapy & beyond. I learned plenty about NPD "Narcicistic Personality Disorder. Lots of twists & turns with interesting characters all the way around!

A novel that could also be titled "Dysfunctional Family #1" ... In Carol Anshaw's "Carry the One" we, the readers explore "what and whom we carry through life and the events that shape us as we mature in age." Book review clubs will find many hours of discussion with themes including complex relationships, i.e., siblings, woman to woman, man to woman, mother to daughter, and beyond. This excellent author has written a beautiful creative family saga incorporating love, loss, addiction and passion.

What could be better than a fictional history blended with an exquisite family saga such as the one I just completed. Maria Duenas' "The Time in Between" is a literary journey which takes the reader along with main character, Sira Quiroga, a young Spanish seamstress, to Morocco, Tangiers, Madrid & beyond...the book involves the Spanish Civil War & captures the atmosphere of the tumultuous 30's & 40's accurately. Like Sira, I, too, love needlework, sewing, fabric & yarn...the vivid colorful descriptions of design were thrilling & came to life in my critical eyes as I read this novel based on betrayal, loss, love, survival in the years preceding and during WWII. Brava!!

Lori L. Tharp's "Substitue Me" which reminded me somewhat of "The Help" could also be entitled "Desperately Seeking A Nanny!" This talented author (so capable of tackling womens issues as she accomplished in her memoir, "Kinky Gazpacho") explores beauty standards, family expectations and sexuality all through the prism of race. Stress galore! How well I remember attempting to balance a young marriage, children, a competitive job with a bit of time leftover for myself & girlfriends -- female book clubs will find plenty of discussable themes in this novel.

"Day After Night" is not an easy read, although the historical fiction novel is well written by the talented author, Anita Diamant. The main characters, Shayndel, Leonie, Tedi & Zorah will crawl into your heart & soul. I was "spooked" by the story long after finishing it, thinking of the challenge that these four courageous friends will have re-building their broken lives after surviving being prisoners. This book is based on the amazing true story of the October 1945 rescue of more than 200 men, women & children from the Atlit internment camp, a prison for "illegal" immigrants run by the British military close to the Mediterranean coast south of Haifa, Israel.

Those of us readers who read and enjoyed Jeannette Walls' The Glass Castle know that this talented author can only be called "exceptionally riveting!" Her Half Broke Horses helps us understand where some of the authors gumption and wit came from as we meet main character, Lily Carey Smith. This amazing grandmother whose life story prepares both the author's mother and herself for the harsh unforgiving world they were about to inhabit. A master of storytelling, we cruise along with Lily through some extremely bittersweet events. Ms. Walls writes her novel so vividly in detail that you feel she is talking to you alone. There were times I felt I honestly could identify with Lily, occasionally I wished I had been an acquaintance in real life. She was such a strong and couragous woman, in an era when women were preferred to be kept as "barefoot and pregnant", she wasn't broken by anyone ... she thrived & survived. This book will certainly be reviewed by my own book club and will be a perfect holiday gift selection for my friends and family. Kudos once again!!

"A Happy Marriage" by Rafael Yglesias tells the story of a mostly companionable 27 year marriage of Enrique & Margaret Sabas. The novel is very autobiographical—Enrique, like Yglesias, is a literary prodigy, having quit school @ 16 after the publication of his first novel. The story opens five years later, and Enrique, now 21 years old, is living the despondent life of the "midlist" novelist in a fifth-floor walk-up in Soho (which was a fun "virtual visit" to NYC). Through an aspiring writer friend, Bernard, he meets the lovely Margaret Cohen (Yglesias’s wife in "real life" was named Margaret as well), a cheerful playful young lady with whom Enrique falls abruptly & agonizingly in love. Each tiny step toward intimacy—a late night spent talking until dawn, a phone call that yields not a date but an invitation to a large holiday dinner at Margaret’s studio apartment, a meal on the cheap at a neighborhood dive—moves them closer to happy relationship. You can parctically "feel" the characters thinking & developing, such vivid descriptions which are interwoven with merciless details of Margaret's untimely passing from symptoms of bladder cancer complete with surgeries & treatment. I was reminded of my dear ones who suffered with similar agonies, knowing that usually cancer wins. I wept but am celebrating this courageous literary masterpiece which should be "required reading" for all couples ... in sickness & in health!

Thank you Simon and Schuster for sending me a copy of Jennifer Vanderbes's "Strangers at the Feast!" I could not put it down ... a great family saga ... although NOT a typical Thanksgiving gathering! If you have parents, siblings or children ... struggled with or against "liberal guilt" ... if your politics have changed since your first job out of college... if discussions of cities v. suburbs have rocked your marriage, this is the next book for you. This novel is a moving look at life and relationships among the haves and have-nots & about the very slim line dividing the two ... my book review club will have many hours of discussable issues!

"If you are a "foodie" or just love a new recipe, absolutely take a look at Molly Wizenberg's blog, Orangette. But also give yourself the pleasure of reading this talented author's book "A Homemade Life" (stories and recipes from my kitchen table)as well. The writing is young, fresh & full of depth and energy. I loved the tribute to her father, lovingly named "Burg" Without straining for connections, and with a natural generosity, Molly Wizenberg uses her writing as well as her cooking to give full attention to Life. She tells us easily in funny, lyrical and tender tales which center on something savored, that feeding people is loving them and that by "the simple acts of cooking and eating, we are creating and continuing the stories that are our lives." BRAVA for her unique additions of chocolate! Bon Appetite!"

For someone that would not go out of her way to pick a "thriller" ... Stieg Larsson's "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" kept me up at night, turning the pages of this unique, creative novel with great anticipation & a pounding heartbeat - loved it ***** 5 stars!

For those of us music lovers who adore fictional history with a touch of mystery ... Gerald Elias' "Devil's Trill" has got to be your next read! This debut author transported me into the refined world of the most gifted musicians along with their instructors, agents & instrument dealers. There are several questions at the crux of this mysterious tale based on the fabled Piccolino Stradivarius. From a music conservatory to an elegant home of a child prodigy and a crooked NYC talent-booking agency, this talented author kept me guessing all night long as to who stole the instrument, who committed the murder & WHY? I already cannot wait for the next in a hopeful series. Don't miss this 5 star novel!

An Upper East Side Soap Opera Date: December 21, 2009 This review is for the Print format. "The Girl Next Door" (looking forward to the movie) by Elizabeth Noble takes place over the course of eight months, as we, the readers, become acquainted with the New York City apartment-building dwellers ... loving, losing, weeping & laughing with the residents & staff. They all change, grow & mature through birth, death, marriage, childbirth, friendship, infidelity, jealousy & many more thought-provoking themes which will provide numerous hours of discussion for female book review clubs. This book could also be named "An Upper East Side Soap Opera!" Personally, I preferred this author's "The Reading Group."

As I was raising my young family, I always thought that when "a gate at the stairs" was installed, the purpose was to protect children from accidentally falling! After reading Lorrie Moore's "A Gate at the Stairs" I now realize that this new novel's title refers to a meditation on the meaning of life, death, race, in addition to parenting. It's a unique tale of growing up, meeting new people & getting to know your own family better. This book is narrated by main character Tessa, a 20-year old, who was raised in a farming town & goes to the "big city," where she is surprised to discover Asian restaurants, dishonest men & a roommate with as much energy for life as she possesses. Tessa is hired as the nanny to an African American little girl adopted by caucasian parents, who have some significantly odd ideas about parenting plus a colorful history. Though "A Gate At The Stairs" takes many sorrow-filled heartrending twists & turns, Tessa is not maudlin or maddening. She seems very real, crawls right into your heart & soul. I really enjoyed this book but gave it only 4 stars based on some chapters of endless "overheard" dialogue, mostly addressing race, which ended up sounding like a lecture or a rambling TV talk show. My other concern is that Ms. Moore lets Tessa have just a little bit too much fun with puns & rhymes albeit amusing & inventive. Still, I give this book my personal thumb's up as a beautiful, challenging work of character, plot & graceful, descriptive language, which will provide numerous issues for discussion. Do not miss this author's short stories!

"As the daughter of a family practioner who began treating patients in the late 1930s (pre-penicillin) when ether was the preferred method of anesthesia, I could truly relate to the dedication of the medical profession that is so effectively presented in Carol Cassella's "Oxygen." The author's precise narrative style perfectly mirrors the workings of a gifted physician’s mind. With blade-sharp insight, she lays bare the failings of a well-run but flawed hospital & the larger health-care system. When a routine procedure goes horribly wrong & leads to the death of an innocent child which includes the horror of a single mother, Dr. Marie Heaton, anesthesiologist, finds herself in the midst of a storm that threatens her career, her self-confidence & the choices she’s made inside & out of the Operating Room. The ending is deeply emotional, resonating with powerful sentiment yet never sentimental. This fiction will provide several quality hours of discussion in book review clubs. Do not miss this new book!"

I very much enjoyed debut novel "Remedies" by Kate Ledger. As a daughter of a physician & a jewess, I could identify with many of the "balancing acts" that were going on within this bittersweet book. I am reminded of the warning about the fragility of marriage as I read the phrase: "There was the ugliness hanging over, the resolute cracking of that perfect egg, their marriage together as they balanced it on a spoon between them." Brava to Ms. Ledger as she presents colorful characters, vivid descriptions of Dr. & Mrs. Simon Bear and their crabby teenager Jamie in this family saga ... book review clubs will fill many hours discussing sensitive issues including sexual harassment, greed, infidelity, parental & offspring relationships, lack of communication, loss of an infant child as well as priorities in life beyond busy medical & public relations practices. I laughed from one eye & cried from the other! Brava - 4 big stars!

If you are a fan of unforgettable historical fiction like "The Red Tent" and "People of the Book" your very next book to read should be Zoe Klein's debut "Drawing in the Dust." I've had the pleasure of visiting & working in Israel, even the unique experience of participating in a archeological dig! "Drawing in the Dust" is the story of Page Brookstone, an American female who spends her days uncovering the past. Although she's a talented & dedicated archaeologist in Mediggo, she "bites the bullet" & begins searching out her options. An Arab couple comes to her in need of help ... wanting Page to excavate beneath their house in Anatot, Israel, claiming "they see love making ghosts" in their home. As Page is skeptical but curious, she makes a visit to their abode and sensations overcome her that she thought were buried. She leaves in a hurry but is drawn back to this home and decides to help this couple. Will Page find the meaning of life in the area beneath this couples home or will she just find herself? Read it! This masterpiece of a book (which includes an adventurous love story that goes back to ancient times right up through to the modern world) made me think & feel! I can recommend this novel highly to book review clubs with its thought-provoking themes. BRAVA to Rabbi Klein ... looking forward to her next gorgeous writing! Five stars *****

The fact that I was privileged to visit India for almost a month last year has truly enhanced my reading & reviewing of Julia Gregson's "East of the Sun." I found this fictional historical novel, set in the intriging setting of 1926 Bombay (now Mumbai), during the era of Ghandi truly intelligent writing ... I could joyfully relate to some of the customs, foods, dress, & phrases! With the vivid descriptions, I "felt" like I was riding on the train, visiting the Indian cities from North to South, East to West. I am already looking forward to hosting my book review club this fall with Indian delicacies & drink, so readily available at local area restaurants. This talented author offers readers a different perspective on the three English women who journeyed to India from England & made it their home in the 1920s and 30s. This book is her tribute to the many British Memsahibs who for a variety of reasons travelled to India and fell in love with the country and the people as I did. Do not miss - 5 stars!" Namaste`!

"Now this was a fun book! "Gold of Kings" is quite adventurous and easily can be visualized as an action film much like National Treasure or the Da Vinci Code films in theory. The reading of this book gives off a similar vibe to Matt Bronleewe's August Adams series, although it is not quite as cool in my opinion as I just loved those books, but really like this one. There are really three main characters that you are following through out the book in their physical, mental, and spiritual battles. The adventure is laid out for the reader to enjoy right along with the characters. The only flaw points that draw me back are the parts where a character figures something out, but it is hidden from the reader. That makes me feel like an outsider, and I love the stories that are as if you are right along side them, and not viewing from a window, you know? One of the best parts about this book are the historical facts and images that are brought to life and explained through out. As the characters are learning some historical pieces of the puzzle the explanations are given to the reader as well in an intriguing manner. Maybe it is because I have a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and this is just my thing, but over all I was thoroughly impressed and plan to look for more titles like this from Davis Bunn in the future."

"Still Alice" by Lisa Genova should be required reading for all families! A deeply moving & heart-rending story narrated by the victim, a Harvard University professor ... Alice tells us about her frustrations & fears as she experiences the devastating effects of early onset Alzheimers Disease (in her 50s). As both of my parents passed away of ALZ related illnesses, I can highly recommend this book for clubs as the impact on spouses, siblings & children is universal. READ IT!

I have read all of Anita Shreve's books and have liked every one of them. However, I believe "Testimony" is her best novel yet as this great author provides the reader with thought provoking scenarios to make them do some thinking as each person gives their "testimony". The subject matter of this novel is very serious and Ms. Shreve handles it in a way that makes it an educational experience for the reader to see how something like this could affect so many lives. As a mother of one son & seven grandsons, (two in college) "Testimony" kept me awake one full night turning pages, thinking: wow! this could be "one of my boys!" The characters, whether they were students, faculty or parents were compelling. Be sure to add this novel to your reading list which also would be an appropriate selection for book review clubs - at least 4 stars ****

Having had the awesome opportunity to meet author Eileen Pollack at the JCC Book Fair in W. Bloomfield, MI recently truly enhanced my reading of her "In The Mouth" Stories & Novellas. As a grandmother of six grandsons, I especially laughed & cried as I inhaled "The Bris" which was selected for "The Best American Short Story in 2007." I found her writing to be funny & sad, an examination of family life & its complexities. 4 stars!! Brava!

Besides being beautifully written, the characterization is brilliantly written in Evan Fallenberg's "Light Fell!" The conflicts are so realistic you can physically feel them as you to turn the pages ALL NIGHT LONG. I was so drawn into the complexity of the parent/child relationships, that even after I put it down, I continued to contemplate them, as if they were people I actually knew. In addition, I was impressed with the energy it took to write something that could be considered controversial. When I read the last word of the novel, I held it closely and said, “I love this book & I want to share it with my book review club.” I had the pleasure to meet the talented young author at the JCC Book Fair, W. Bloomfield, MI.

Diane Ackerman's "The Zookeeper's Wife" is a book that I have read more than once & each time, the novel seems to touch a different nerve in my heart & soul! Excellent fictional history which begins with Germany invading Poland, devastating & horrifying Warsaw. As most of their animals are now dead or severly injured, zookeepers Antonina Zabinski & her husband Jan begin smuggling Jewish people into empty cages ... you will not believe how this tale develops! This creative author keeps my attention with vivid, descriptive detail through her elegant prose & delicate sensitivity to the natural world. I would recommend this unique war story for mature adult book clubs.

When Maryam Mazar leaves the safe quiet comfort of her London home to confront secrets of her troubled past on the riotous streets of Iran, she does not have a clue that her actions will result in tragic consequences for her pregnant daughter, Sara, and her orphaned nephew, Saeed. A notable well-crafted first novel about mothers & daughters!

I have had the pleasure of reading an Advanced Reader's edition from HarperCollins. If you loved Dennis Lehane's "Mystic River" and "Shutter Island" ... "The Given Day" is your next read! Fictional history at its best, a BIG book with interesting characters galore that is set in Boston, about 1919, post world war one. You will meet soldiers coming home from overseas, complete with the horrors of the Spanish flu. I found the sub-plot about the unionizing of the police department of interest ... already anticipating a Sam Raimi directed film - bravo!!

"Dough" is delicious! I laughed, I cried, I had a tour of the old neighborhoods of lower eastside New York ... author Mort Zachter has written his biography/memoir in such a fun creative humanistic nonfiction format that I hated to finish the book. With family members of "that generation" I could identify with the situations, the phrases of yiddish and OH, what a $$$ windfall ... as I discuss the theme with others ... "it's not such a unique ending." Don't miss "Dough" which is certainly a story about more than bread or money.

As one who lived with a person who had a "double identity" I could truly relate to the story presented in Santa Montefiore's "Sea of Lost Love" which was absolutely not another 'chic lit." The heroine and main character Celestria is jarred into adulthood by her father's untimely death/disappearance in a romantic mystery-filled adventure that takes you from Cornwall, England to Puglia, Italy. Very vivid life-like descriptions - a pleasurable read with a unique story line! I was reminded of novels written by Maeve Binchy and Rosamunde Pilcher.

Well, author Joanne Harris has done it again with her YUMMY sequel to "Chocolat" ... It's fun to get re-acquainted with master confectioner and benevolent witch Vianne Rocher (as well as Anouk & her imaginary rabbit, Pantoufle) who now trades the quiet quaint village of Lansquenet for a very contemporary colorful Paris — complete with le métro, bohemian Montmartre, iPods, and YES! identity theft....a magical tale !! 4 delicious stars! "V'la l'bon vent, v'la l' joli vent!" "A Cool story" as Zozie would say.

I decided to visit India after I read the book & saw the film "The Namesake." During my journey, I read Jhumpa Lahiri's "Interpreter of Maladies" and now, another fresh collection of eight beautiful stories entitled "Unaccustomed Earth" which addresses the issues of old fashioned Bengali customs, traditional Indian arrangements, loss, love & family life. It's a do not miss, already #1 on the NY Times best seller list. The opening story (which is my most memorable) assumes its title from a Nathaniel Hawthorne quote ... "roots into unaccustomed earth" rather than replanting succeeding generations "in the same worn-out soil." BRAVA !!

Although I did not enjoy Daniel Mason's "A Far Country" as much as "The Piano Turner," I can recommend this unique novel set in an unamed part of South America. I cheered main character Isabel in her adventurous haunting search for her beloved older brother, Isaias. The book is written in beautiful prose & is quite a different story of family bonding.

At 64 years of age & a grandmother of eight, I guess I am just "too old & too past the years of being a young mother who is out of the workforce" to totally being able to identify with Meg Wolitzer's "The Ten-Year Nap." I found myself taking a nap for most of the novel. I did, however, rather enjoy the attitudes of the four main characters & look forward to hearing that they have successfully "survived the phase of young children & being a stay-at-home Mom" ... alas, (sigh!) and have returned to their professional & social standards. I promise "there is a life after raising a family!" You will find yourself smiling as we watch our own young offspring (now parents) raise their little ones which does not come with a "how to booklet."

Historical fiction at its best - 4 bravo stars **** "Pravda" by Edward Docx had me hooked from the first chapter but aaaah, the last 50 pages are absolutely the best! The multi-generational characters starting with Grandpa Max (or is he really who he claims?), the twins, Gabriel & Isabella ... enter Arkady, a sibling? the parents? Truly a unique family saga, set between St. Petersburg, Russia & London & back again. I laughed, cried, felt loss & the celebration of discovery through the vivid descriptive language! Cannot wait to read The Calligrapher by this same talented author!

Historical fiction at its best ... 4 stars! Edward Docx's "Pravda" had me hooked right from the first chapter but aaaah, the last 50 pages are the best! I enjoyed the multi generational characters from Max, the grandpa who turns out to be .... ooops, not telling the secret ending ... the twins, Gabriel & Isabella, Arkady .. is he a sibling? This adventure takes you from St. Petersburg, Russia to London and back again ... don't miss this description-rich novel filled with secrets & discovery! I now want to read "The Calligrapher" by this same talented author.

In my "first chapter of married life," I was a political spouse and oh, can I ever commiserate with main character Delia Naughton in Sue Miller's "The Senator's Wife!" This author's keen descriptions of highs, lows, infidelity, friendship, moving on, Washington DC life & death are precise, insightful and make for a good read.

As a major fan of author, Charles Baxter, I was mesmerized & glued to his latest novel, "The Soul Thief." His unique characters Nathaniel Mason & family, Theresa, Jamie and most of all, Jerome Coolberg plus intriguing story line had me into an all night read. I had the pleasure of hearing Mr. Baxter speak at Univeristy of Michigan, Ann Arbor campus, Hopwood Award Ceremony and only wish he was still on faculty to enlighten and teach the English Literature students. Bravo!

"Orange Mint and Honey" by Carleen Brice could also be titled "Forgiveness," which to me is the central theme in this novel. The author in her debut book discusses close friendships that may have shifted since attending college, the challenges & delicate balancing act of motherhood, sibling relationships & more issues including alcoholism/treatment that will provide many hours of discussion in our book review clubs.

It's been a long time since I finished a book in one sitting & faced an urge to "read it again!" C. S. Richardson's "The End of the Alphabet" is sheer joy ... G is for "glazed eyes" and S is for "my smiles" as I inhaled this tender poetic love story of Ambrose and Zipper Zephyr. And what would you do if the doctor gave you 30 days to live? Don't miss this 119 page masterpiece of literature! The author's "stacato" choice of language is most effective as he takes you on a world tour.

When I first considered reading this book, I said that "I would either love it or hate it!" Well, I not only loved it, I thoroughly liked it too!! This time period--1412-1417 is not often written about in historical fiction from this point of view. The connection in Prague with the Jewish community, and the connection in England with Harry V and John Wycliffe was intricately woven and very interesting to read about. It was a very refreshing point of view. The copying of books, and Bibles in the 'people's languages' in specific, sure caused a great stir. Yet today this is still the biggest best selling book ever! All readers and book lovers should find this really interesting. Then the love story between the book copier's daughter and the 'Spy' was fabulous!! They were such rich and deeply thoughtful and tender characters. I have already told two of my book groups that we will be reading this book. I also want to read her earlier work--THE ILLUMINATOR--as I assume that it is the beginning of this book with the book copier being called 'the Illuminator' in this story. Also, I have only read one previous book that goes into the lives of Kathryn and Jerome before . Their lives are fascinating also. So much enjoyment in such a fine book ... historical fiction fans, this should be your next read for yourself & book review club!

I read this charming book in one sitting! Between the very comical clients & typical family tensions, Miriam (a closet phone psychic in a posh upscale NY neighborhood) struggles to make sense of her mind-reading gift & the delicate relationships of her husband, daughter, neighbors & beyond. A Bubbie myself, I laughed & cried while I read "Miriam the Medium" by Rochelle Jewel Shapiro. As this first time author would say ... "A beautiful future shimmers before you!" Don't miss this fun new novel!

If you found "Makes Me Wanna Holler" worthwhile, do not miss "THEM" by Nathan McCall. In it, the author explores issues of race and gentrification through the story of Barlowe, a middle aged black man who lives in Atlanta's Fourth Ward. When a white couple moves in next door, Barlowe eventually forms a friendship with the wife while continuing to experience tension over the ways that white people are changing the neighborhood. Them is not only a page turning story with well developed characters and voice, it is also a thought-provoking look at race relations in 2007 America & would provide many discussable issues for adult book review clubs.

"Identical Strangers: A Memoir of Twins Separated and Reunited" is a fascinating true account of identical twins lost from each other for years after being separated at birth during a secret study - you will be glued to this non-fiction book, reading about the women being reunited when they were 35 years of age! "Not as easy and simple as it sounds ..."

"Triangle" by Katharine Weber is a novel about the last remaining survivors of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire which begain toward the end of March 28, 1911 in NY. The characters Esther and Ruth Zion are courageous & wise ... I read this story in one sitting!

Now that I have had a rare chance to hear author Michael Chabon speak, his rare "genre writing syle" makes more sense to me. In "Gentlemen of the Road: A Tale of Adventure," he recreates 10th century Khazaria, the fabled kingdom of wild, red-haired Jews on the western shore of the Caspian Sea ... terrific fun!

Although I have been to the State of Israel on business as well as pleasure, I would have loved to be a member of Yair Hendelsohn's tour! In Meir Shalev's "A Pigeon and a Boy," this author tells a tale of a homing pigeon handler, known as the Baby. As the tour guide "speaks," the narrative provides vivid interesting detail on the relationship between the birds & the keepers. This love story~novel is an opportunity to read & learn!

I have read all of the National Book Award-winning novels by Alice McDermott and am just as mesmorized with her 6th book "After This." It tells the heartbreaking story of an Irish-Catholic family who is strugging to deal with the challenging after effects of the Vietnam War.... a moving chronicle of the shattering realities of such loss experienced ... very emotional saga with many excellent issues for discussion. The Keane Family characters will crawl into your very soul!

As an artist, a frequent visitor to Venice, Italy and raised in a small town, author Richard Russo has captured my fascination in his new novel "The Bridge of Sighs." The descriptions of those in this complex family saga are vivid & colorful - I can close my eyes & envision the "milk delivery truck" and riding a vaporetto on the Venice canals under the Bridge of Sighs! Bravo - 4 stars!

Well, author Rick Beyer has done it again with the third in his series of non-fiction books. His "The Greatest Presidential Stories Never Told" are presented with a "one-two punch of history" ... you'll laugh and learn with tales from 1610 through the year 2000. Perfect gift for all the history buffs in your life ... even the selected sources at the back of this volume is of interest. Four big stars!

If you loved Ursula Hegi's "Stones From the River" as well as her "Sacred Time" ... run to your local library or better yet, order this new novel from Powells! Once again this wonderful author gives us a rich story dealing with issues of love, death, friendship, loyalty & sorrow set into a disturbing "triangular relationship!" I pulled an all nighter!

Although Robert Hellenga's "The Sixteen Pleasures" is my all time favorite ... his sequel "The Italian Lover" is a fun interesting read following main character, Margot's continuing adventures throughout beautiful Florence, Italy! As an avid reader, art history major, lover of fictional history & frequent visitor to Italy, you cannot miss with these books that have so many discussable issues! This material would be perfect for a film.

Albeit a bit long & oh so much detail ... Gail Tsukiyama has done it again with her new novel "The Street of a Thousand Blossoms!" I know when this author publishes, I will have an opportunity to learn something new about Japan ... this time its sumo wrestling plus a beautiful family saga about two orphans & their dedicated grandparents who raise the boys.

Oy Vey! Naomi Ragen has done it again with her latest novel "The Saturday Wife" which is a unique & creative peek into the modern orthodox Jewish community! You'll laugh from one eye & cry from the other as you follow the antics of main character Delilah, the Rabbi's wife - I really enjoyed this book and it might be a fun read for the Jewish Book Review Clubs!

I am signed up for a trip to visit the country of India December 2007 - January 2008 ... Rohinton Mistry's "A Fine Balance" is suggested reading. It was a pleasure re-reading this astonishing novel once again, should be read by everyone who loves books! "A Fine Balance" is THE India novel which transforms our understanding of life! The main characters will crawl into your heart - 4 stars!

If you loved "Dreaming Water" & "The Samurai's Garden" be sure to read Gail Tsukiyama's beautiful & fascinating novel "The Street of a Thousand Blossoms" ... you will quickly find yourself absorbed in the world of Japanese culture this author has created. Hiroshi & Kenji will crawl into your heart, orphans who live with their maternal grandparents on the Street of a Thousand Blossoms in Tokyo. A family saga, historical fiction that deserves 4 stars!! Many discussable issues for your book review clubs!

Margaret Forster is a master at authoring fictional history with an emphasis on the world of art (my personal favorite) ... her memoirs and biographies are so accurate set beautifully in the UK and France ... you will love her "lady's Maid" and don't miss "Keeping the World Away!"

"A Woman in Jerusalem" by A. B. Yehoshua is to be read & reviewed by my book review club this fall ,,, so many discussable issues including the crossing of borders and cultures -- fictional history at its best by one of Israel's leading authors!

If you enjoyed The Red Tent, "Water from the Well ... Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel and Leah" by Anne Roiphe is your next book! You will find that the matriarachs had to overcome some of the same devastating obstacles that women face today - excellent discussable issues for female book review clubs!

A compelling debut novel about the relationship between Mamah Cheney & architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, who built her home in 1904. "Loving Frank" by Nancy Horan touches on the background and inspirations of Wright's designs while delving into the lesser story of his complicated personal & tres` colorful life -- fictional history at its best! Also you get a peek into the Feminist Movement of the 20th century - awesome discussable issues for book review clubs!

An elegant tapestry of East and West, peppered with food and ceremony, wisdom and sensuality, this luminous novel breathes new life into timeless themes...and an excellent book review novel for women's clubs, many discussable issues. As a mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, wife & friend, I could identify with the universal struggles plus with a scheduled trip to India late this year, I loved the descriptions, language, customs & more!

I have re-read The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri and am ready for the film. This book exquisitely discusses family issues including multicultural relationships, traditions & conflicts, birth, death, divorce, marriage & more from Calcutta to Boston -- perfect for book review clubs!

This action-packed, comic book-style guide, presented in "Does This Cape Make Me Look Fat?" by Cain, Mohan and Miternique gives great hilarious advice ... well beyond the question of 'what shall I wear?' Tres` clever!

Need a good laugh & a hearty chuckle at this wild and crazy stressful holiday season? Christopher Moore's "The Stupidest Angel: A Heartwarming Tale of Christmas Terror" is the answer. Waaaay creative & fun!

I read this story years ago, now read it to young grandchildren and have purchased copies (still available used) for their personal libraries ... author Anita Loebel's message is timeless! The plot is just great as "Potatoes, Potatoes" emphasizes the importance of family. This illustrated book is a MUST READ people of all ages! 5 stars!

Our family is unique, I love sugar & my husband is a diabetic. I found that I can substitute a "splenda type" product successfully in many of the recipes featured in Nancy Baggett's "The All-American Cookie Book!" The photographers enhance this excellent volumn.

All five characters in this novel along with their creative narration can be classified as magical! The Famished Road is the Booker Prize-winning novel written by Nigerian author Ben Okri & you should not miss it! The book, written in 1991, follows Azaro, an abiku or spirit child, living in the Nigerian city of Lagos on the eve of independence. Order it today - perfect holiday gifts for the sophisticated readers on your list.

"From the Shadows" by Robert M. Gates should be required reading for every person in the United States that is qualified to vote - fascinating!

WHAT A COURAGEOUS AUTHOR DAVE KING WAS TO CONQUER HIS FIRST NOVEL WHICH DEALT WITH THE TOUGH THEMES OF DRUG ABUSE, A DAMAGED MAN ILLUSTRATING HIS LIFE DURING A BRUTAL WAR - BRAVO TO THE LEAD CHARACTER, HOWARD! BE SURE TO READ AND RE-READ "THE HA-HA!" CHEERS! 5 STARS!

WITH FIVE GRANDSONS, AGES 8 TO 18, I THINK I HAVE FOUND THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT IN CHRIS CRUTCHER'S "ATHLETIC SHORTS: SIX SHORT STORIES". HIS STORIES SOUND FRESH WITH ENOUGH CHALLENGE TO KEEP THESE BRIGHT MINDS OCCUPIED!

"Adverbs" is a novel about love & I know you will love it, I did!! You'll read about all kinds of people who are in & out of love. In the beginning, Andrea is in love with David -- or is it Joe, etc. At the end of the book, it's Joe who's in the taxi, falling in love with Andrea, or it might not be Andrea... get it? "Adverbs" by David Handler has to be read to believe its uniqueness - don't miss it!

Heart-warming and sometimes humorous remembrances, make Ruth Reichl's memoir, Tender at the Bone: Growing Up at the Table, a memorable account that reads like a novel. In it, the author presents her life story as it relates to her fascination with food. The memoir recalls childhood time spent with her mom, who was "taste blind" but "could make a trip to the supermarket sound like an adventure"; teenage fun with friends, including a non-Jewish boyfriend, who referred to her scrumptious matzoh brei as "fried cardboard"; dinner parties & a growing dedication to civil rights activism during college; experiences as a restaurant owner, chef, & cookbook author; Complementing these recollections are some of Reichl's own delicious recipes. Bon Appetite, happy Reading! I have this book in my personal library & have given it successfully as a gift many times! While "Tender at the Bone" is a celebration of food, Reichl notes that "food has always meant more to me than just eating & recipes. It's about people. And I wanted this book to be about people."

With an emphasis on LA,CA, authors Faderman & Timmons speak to readers about gay history. Archivists dating back to the 19th century; interviews of 250 people; recovered court transcripts; private mementos; scrapbooks; many other public & private resources provided raw materials for their informative, detailed account. This research indicates that "historically, more lesbian and gay institutions started in Los Angeles than anywhere else on the planet." A worthwhile enlightening read!

In The Politics of Bones, Canadian journalist Timothy Hunt relates a tragic but courageous tale of Ken Saro-Wiwa through the eyes of his younger sibling, Dr. Owens Wiwa. Saro-Wiwa, killed in 1995, was an internationally important author, environmental & human rights activist; he organized to fight the rampant environmental destruction caused by Shell Oil in the Niger Delta. This story is a heart-stopping saga of personal courage, official corruption, corporate greed, family struggle & determination to honor his brother.

A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian is set in Peterborough, where 84-year old Ukranian immigrant Nikolai Mayevskyj announces to his daughters that he's in love and will remarry. The object of his affection is Valentina, a 36-year old old Ukranian woman with a visa about to expire and a pair of marvelous breasts. She's determined to use Nikolai to achieve the Western lifestyle she's assured she deserves, and he's willing to let her while he works on his book about the history of tractors. Meanwhile, his daughters, although tres` different in outlook rivals, band together to thwart Valentina's ambitions. Valentina's turns their family home inside out, plenty of tumult, digging up old family secrets in the process. It's a battle of wills with all the participants shaped by their own pasts through recent Eastern European history. Author Lewycka's novel is a comic look at family bonds & Western lifestyles. Much more happens but the plot is really a vehicle for social satire, some good jokes & an overdose of slapstick. It adds up to a unique, touching family saga with lots of discussable issues for book review groups. A PERFECT HOLIDAY READ & GIFT GIVING SUGGESTION!

This poignant collection, compiled from Kingston?s healing workshops, contains the distilled wisdom of survivors of five wars, including combatants, war widows, spouses, children, conscientious objectors, and veterans of domestic abuse. Vetrans of War, Vetrans of Peace includes accounts from people that grew up in military families, served as medics in the thick of war, or came home to homelessness. All struggle with trauma ? post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and other consequences of war and violence. Through their extraordinary writings, readers witness worlds coming apart and being put back together again through liberating insight, community, and the deep transformation that is possible only by coming to grips with the past.

Just like Louis Sachar's previous book "Holes" ... his latest "Small Steps" has a very meaningful story line ... perfect holiday gift for young readers!