You really should not be able to vote unless you’ve read this book. The history and analysis it contains are foundational for citizenship in America. Seriously, move this to the top of your TBR list.

I absolutely love this book! I saw similarities to "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime" and "Room", but with so much more depth and compassion. I loved Budo's wisdom and insight. Most surprising to me was the way I accepted the imaginary characters; I normally dislike stories about supernatural beings. The simple explanation that the imaginary friends were each endowed with the powers bestowed upon them by their human creators worked for me - and I particularly enjoyed this element of the story.

I appreciated the shout-out to the world's truly good teachers, and the simple observation of what differentiates those who "act" from those who "teach". Max's whole situation was handled so compassionately and realistically , both from his perspective, and that of the people who come in contact with him, that the book could be required reading for those who parent or work with special-needs children.

In addition to the above, there was a page-turning suspense story, a murder, much adventure, and a happy ending. The pacing was perfect, and the story flawless. I loved every page of this book. Nothing has impressed me this much in the last 500 books I've read. Truly outstanding. I recommend to everyone!

This book just seemed way off to me. The historical context was a little shaky, as the book was set in a year when the Shakers may or may not have been a nascent presence in Maine, but surely had not had time to develop the reputation to outsiders that was depicted in the book, nor many of the traditions and organizational hierarchies referenced. Likewise, a pervasive reference to toothpicks being spit out and replaced was distracting, as disposable toothpicks were not invented until the 1830's, about 40 years after the setting in the book.

Historical context aside, I thought the author needlessly developed too many peripheral characters, creating confusion as to their significance. The conflict relating to the main character's sister's family being removed from the farm was never resolved (did they go quietly? did a fight ensue? was a relationship preserved or destroyed?), although the conflict was developed and referenced many times throughout the book.

The ending's social situation was predictable. The convoluted explanation of bloodlines really muddled the whodunit aspect. The plot never pulled me in or held me in suspense. I really had to force myself to finish.

If you can suspend your belief in science and reality and embrace two characters who exist in an imaginary world where they can see their physical bodies and communicate between themselves without ever encountering other beings like themselves, this is a good novel. The story and mystery and its resolution are satisfying, but the angel narrator and her similarly challenged daughter were too much for my sensibilities. Readers who embrace the idea of angels and ghosts will enjoy this book.

This is a very palatable way to learn about cancer. The book covers the history of its diagnosis and treatment, in all its many forms, and efforts that currently exist to identify and treat modern cancers. About 80 of this book is in layman's terms, and several specific cases are included to humanize the information. It does not admonish or instruct, but rather provides useful knowledge about the disease and potential cures and treatments. Read it if you want to learn what cancer is/does and how it's currently being treated. Knowledge is power, right?

A good psychological study of a dad whose son is accused of killing a popular political figure. It kept me reading, although it didn't really go in the direction I was expecting. Since finishing, I've really spent some time reflecting on the subject; it's not one you soon forget. Bordering on profound; definitely captivating.

A solid teen book with a bit of a twist at the end. I thought the situation - a summer book club forced on a small group of unrelated girls by their moms - was unrealistic, but once I accepted that as a given, the rest of the story worked. A little different take on the "book club" novel.

Sort of creepy and supernatural occurrences mixed in with corrupt killing cops, a bank robbery, and a disappearing kid. Creative, somewhat humorous, very entertaining. I thought the ending was weak and rushed, but I enjoyed reading this book.

How can a book about the narrator's impending suicide make you laugh? Ashley Ream pulls it off with her sharp wit and incredible voice. There are life lessons here, but so much humor, you don't really realize it 'til the end. What a great read!

This was a well-written book that I want to give 5 stars to. Something about it just didn't work for me, though. I have a sense that the outrage over the selection of a Muslim to design a 9/11 memorial just would not play out the way it is depicted in this novel. I got the feeling throughout my reading that it didn't feel real. Worth reading to examine your own opinions on the matter, though.

This was described as a "courtroom thriller". I would call it a courtroom drama. It languishes significantly, then presents a satisfying twist at the end to redeem itself. Like Picoult's "Nineteen Minutes", "Defending Jacob" provokes a parent's introspection. How would it feel as a parent to experience this particular set of circumstances? Could this be my child? How would I/my teen respond? If you're going to read this book, you have to commit to finishing it.

Although I read that "The Dovekeepers" was inspired by a biblical story, this atheist was able to appreciate the historical and narrative qualities of the writing. The characters have enough depth and development to make this a very satisfying piece of historical fiction. The author does a good job of intelligently weaving the stories of four women with enough just enough suspense to keep you interested to the end.

While there were some intriguing ideas expressed in this book, it just didn't have enough clarity for me to "get" the author's message(s). The commingling of actual and fictional history and geography really threw me for a loop. I never could get my bearings in either realm. Too much metaphor/parable also left me guessing about what direction the author was trying to get me to follow her in. And the ambiguous "girlfriend"? I suppose it doesn't really matter if it was a lesbian relationship or not, but why the ambiguity? I think this author has something to say, but I don't think she has really said it in this book.

I'm not generally a fan of suspense/thrillers, but I got a free copy of this book and, well, you know, couldn't put it down. Since I don't read a lot of this genre, I may be unduly impressed, but I thought the content was original (although horribly gruesome in parts), the writing intelligent, and the pace almost more than I could take. It stayed good right up to the last page. Don't start it late at night - you'll never get to sleep.

The title evokes images of destruction and abandon, but the story is about repair and acceptance and comfort and wholeness. The intelligence and warmth and depth of this book were a pleasant surprise. I have no reservations in recommending it.

Although this book focuses on the coming-of-age of a hermaphrodite, its message is relevant to many parent/teen relationships. Its themes of love, acceptance, and friendship are universal. Unlike "Middlesex" (the other popular hermaphrodite-based novel), "Annabel" is not weighed down with family issues and historical themes. It's readable, poignant, and satisfying. Give it a try.

I really enjoyed the main character in this book, and the fact that her experiences derive from those of the author, Victoria Brown. The narrator, Grace, behaves with dignity and character (and, yes, grace) in the face of incredible challenges and setbacks. She has created a very difficult situation for herself, coming to America alone as a 16-year-old, determined to make a life for herself in a country purported to be brimming with opportunity. Her story is at times crushing and sad, at other times hopeful and inspiring, but always compelling.

This book is very readable, while giving insight into parts of America that many of us are unfamiliar with. My only reservation about the book is its failure to resolve the issues of most of the satellite characters. But I would still recommend it as an enjoyable, compassionate read.

I found this book in my local bookstore's home improvement section, obviously placed there by someone who hasn't read it. As a fan of history, I absolutely loved "At Home". Bryson's voice is the best I've found for conveying historical information, and the home is used in this effort as an organizational tool for all the historical data he has packed in his head. Like many, I've loved Bryson since "A Walk in the Woods", and have read many of his travel essays, but "At Home" is a departure from the hilarious romps he's taken us on in previous books. Not as dry as "A Short History...", but a serious research effort told in a light, enjoyable voice. Fascinating read.

I read this book in two sittings. As in "Still Alice", the author immediately draws you in by relating familiar situations and feelings. Then when a traumatic injury leaves Sarah brain-damaged, Genova continues to relate Sarah's tale in a way in which we can all imagine, enduring her difficult circumstances. Lisa Genova is a very educated and compassionate author whose ability to convey the horrors of brain injury are valuable and compelling. This book is not depressing and scary, but hopeful, resilient, and realistic. Educate yourself while enjoying a great read.

What an awesome story! I love that the subject of this book is still alive. (I marveled throughout the book at how that is possible, though). This was one of the most vivid accounts of survival I have ever read. Also very educational - we all know about the horrors that the Germans committed during WWII, but what about the Japanese? I was truly enlightened and moved reading "Unbroken", and would recommend it to anyone. If this doesn't make a best-seller list soon, I'd be very surprised. Widespread appeal to all of humanity.