American Wife: A Novel
by Curtis Sittenfeld
Very interesting story (11/5/2009)
No sense in being vague, this is a fictionalized(?) story of Laura and George W. Bush. I have read so much about the Bush's, I wasn't expecting to get so wrapped up in the book. I felt tremendous compassion and empathy for the Laura character from beginning to end. As I expected, I enjoyed and liked the George character, except for his drunk and partying years. Even though I did not enjoy the Bush years politically, I have always thought they were good, decent people. This book was very well written and was interesting from beginning to end. I plan to pick up the next book written by Curtis Sittenfeld.
The Help
by Kathryn Stockett
I loved this book (10/12/2009)
For years I have been looking for a book that would make me feel the same emotions as I felt when I read "To Kill and Mockingbird", and this book is definitely it. I laughed, I cried, I felt deep concern for the characters, I could not put it down until it was finished. I grew up in the South without a maid, but was aware of them through friends and other family members. To say I fell in love with Skeeter, Abilene and Minny does not seem to describe how much I wanted to share time with them during the book. Unlike Harper Lee, I hope Kathryn Stockett will continue to write more and more stories. I can't wait to read the next thing she puts out. Great job, Kathryn!!
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
by Mary Ann Shaffer, Annie Barrows
Loved this Book!! (7/30/2009)
The title is a little of a turn-off, but don't let it turn you away. It is a wonderful, enjoyable book. I literally laughed on one page and had tears in my eyes within another 20 pages. The characters are so wonderfully developed, even though the book is based on letters they have written to each other. I knew nothing about Guernsey or the occupation during WWII until I read this book. The authors introduced some very difficult subjects in a way that made it readable. Get this book right now!
Agent Zigzag: A True Story of Nazi Espionage, Love, and Betrayal
by Ben Macintyre
Very interesting read (11/9/2008)
Could this have been the original inspiration for James Bond? Maybe, but not probable. However, Eddie Chapman is someone you admire for his incredible bravery and pull for throughout the book, but wouldn't trust with your personal possessions. I have always wondered how countries recruited spys and double spys during wars and other internal crises. The book is very well researched and fascinating. Some of this information is only recently discovered. I have never heard these World War II stories.
 (1).gif)
