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Reviews by Diane H. (Leawood, KS)

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Mighty Justice: My Life in Civil Rights
by Dovey Johnson Roundtree , Katie McCabe
True Inspiration (9/18/2019)
I am so grateful to have received an advance copy of "Mighty Justice". The story of Dovey Roundtree is one that will stay in my memory for years to come. Dovey Roundtree was a pioneer who overcame so many obstacles to accomplish the things she did as a teacher, a lawyer and a minister.
The story is beautifully written and, in my opinion, should be compulsory reading in every history class. Katie McCabe, through her writing, brings to life the story of Dovey Roundtree. This book would make an excellent selection for any book group as the issues contained in it are ones that are still prevalent in society today.
Great story!
The Last Romantics
by Tara Conklin
Totally Engrossing (12/10/2018)
This book is amazing!!! I very much enjoyed "House Girl" and was looking forward to this read. I honestly had a hard time putting the book down and went to bed thinking about the characters. Tara Conklin is a superb writer and draws you into her family and all of its issues. There are so many themes that, probably each of us, can relate to. Love, forgiveness, security, hope and awareness of self are all brought to the forefront of this book. It belongs on book club lists.
Listen to the Marriage
by John Jay Osborn
Totally Engrossing Read (5/27/2018)
This book captured my attention right from the first page. I felt like an interloper during the marriage counseling sessions of Gretchen and Steve There were times that I grew quite impatient with each one of them but I could also empathize with their struggle.The importance of honest communication in a marriage is highlighted amazingly well.

Having been a counselor, I could relate to many of the scenes in the book.

Start to finish, it is a great read
The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After
by Elizabeth Weil, Clemantine Wamariya
Eye Opener (2/5/2018)
For me, this book was a huge eye opener. I knew very little about the massacre in Rwanda.

In this memoir Clementine exposes the reader to the horrors of the Rwandan massacre and draws us into her reality. We feel her fear, insecurity and anger. It is heartbreaking to learn that even today she struggles with her identity and her place in society. Her anger is palpable on the pages.

I liked the fact that she also showed us the ways in which Claire and her mother dealt with their horrendous pain and loss. I found myself haunted by Claire's comment near the end of the book; "When I remember our experiences, I'm alone".
Each family member has her own reality.

This is an engrossing book and one I had a hard time putting down. Worth the read!!!
Happiness: The Crooked Little Road to Semi-Ever After
by Heather Harpham
Heartwarming Story (5/28/2017)
I could not put this book down! This memoir is, at times funny, at times sad, but always captivating.
Heather Harpham draws the reader into her story and, it is as if you are there with her family during the good times and not so good times. Always I was absorbed by this heartwarming story and finished reading it with tears running down my face.
Thank you Heather for sharing this story
The Resurrection of Joan Ashby
by Cherise Wolas
Totally Engrossing (5/19/2017)
This is an amazing book! If I could think of other superlatives to describe it, I would use them.
The book drew me in immediate and I was constantly in awe of Wolas' superb mastery of the English language.
There are stories within stories and all, ultimately, come back to Joan Ashby: author, wife, mother and searcher of inner peace and happiness.
The reader is caught up in the family life of Joan and all it entails. She struggles with her feelings for Martin and her sons, Daniel and Eric, and fights against losing her personal identity.
I loved this book and am amazed that it is a debut novel by Cherise Wolas. There has to be more!!!
No One Is Coming to Save Us
by Stephanie Powell Watts
Lives LIved (4/7/2017)
I was sorry to reach the end of this book as I had become so involved in the lives of the characters.
"No One Is Coming To Save Us" is, in my opinion, a book that will be read and studied for years to come.
The themes of the book, failure, shame, grief, and disappointment, are highlighted in each of the characters.
On the one hand the reader sympathizes with the characters and , on the other hand, you find yourself hoping and cheering for them.
I was deeply touched by this book and look forward to reading more by this author.
Home Sweet Home
by April Smith
Engrossing Read (12/7/2016)
"Home Sweet Home" follows the lives of Calvin and Betsy Kusek and their children Jo and Lance.
As they undertake the difficulty of leaving New York City to take up farming in rural South Dakota,we, as readers, share in the story of their dreams, disappointments, love, politics, courage and commitment.
April Smith writes beautifully and I found myself totally engrossed in this story.
"Home Sweet Home" would be a great movie and will be a very satisfying read for those fortunate enough to purchase it
Rise: How a House Built a Family
by Cara Brookins
Inspirational (10/12/2016)
The story of Cara and her family is one that is inspirational, uplifting, informative and frightening all at the same time.
The tragedy of living with an abuser who is schizophrenic is truly scary. I admire Cara's determination, resilience and strength as she protects herself and her family.
The house represents freedom, safety and courage.
The closeness of the family is touching.
I loved this book!!!
The Secret Ingredient of Wishes
by Susan Bishop Crispell
A Very Pleasant Read (7/12/2016)
Be careful what you wish for as it may come true. This theme predominates the story line. The book was thoroughly enjoyable and would be a great beach read. It is a really nice story of wishes, secrets, pleas and love.
The characters are ones the reader can relate to.
Overall, a great read
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things: A Novel
by Bryn Greenwood
Amazing Read (5/2/2016)
Wow! Greenwood has presented the reader with a truly mesmerizing cast of characters. Her style of writing allows you to feel as if you are inside of the skin of Wavy and Kellen and sharing their experiences.
The book is raw, sensual and touching. I could not put it down.
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