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Reviews by Penny P. (Santa Barbara, CA)

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Things We Didn't Say: A Novel
by Kristina Riggle
Things We didn't say (5/18/2011)
I thought this was a pretty good quick read. I think it dealt with the issues in both blended and dysfunctional families. The characters were not quite as developed as I would have liked them to be, but still I think it is worth reading. Its appeal may be greater with teens or young adult readers. I am not sure if my book club would enjoy it because lately we have been looking for more unusual topics.
The Sweetness of Tears: A Novel
by Nafisa Haji
Time for Tears (3/9/2011)
This was an interesting book that covered family,religion and tradition. It gave readers a view of the Pakistan culture.I found the writing style which included the interchange of generations,to be interesting but a bit difficult to follow. I did spend some time re-reading a section just to make sure I knew who was speaking. In this regard, the book was not as fluid as other books I have read. All in all, I do feel it is worth a read and I will recommend it to my book club.
The Philosophical Breakfast Club: Four Remarkable Friends Who Transformed Science and Changed the World
by Laura J. Snyder
A look at science (12/31/2010)
Not having much background (or interest) in science, it took a couple of attempts to get into this book. Once I did,it was fairly easy to understand and was pretty interesting.The writing was good and did a good job of providing a historic perspective. I know more about the subject than I did before so that is a good thing. I have a friend that is interested in science and I know she will appreciate the book.
Ever By My Side: A Memoir in Eight Acts Pets
by Dr. Nick Trout
Love our pets (12/31/2010)
I loved this book. It is a book every animal lover should read. Dr.Nick is a wonderful author who writes so colorfully about the special relationships we share with our furry friends. Any one who has loved and lost a pet will appreciate this book
Three Seconds
by Anders Roslund & Borge Hellstrom
An Intriging Read (12/12/2010)
I really liked this book.The characters were well developed and interesting. It may be a bit far fetched,but still makes for a good read.I have become a fan of Swedish authors as I also enjoy Mankell and Larsen. I did not anticipate the ending. I would recommend his to those who enjoy mystery and crime novels. It will make for a good discussion at book clubs.
A Box of Darkness: The Story of a Marriage
by Sally Ryder Brady
A Memoir of A Marriage (12/8/2010)
This book was a difficult and fascinating read. It made me think about how we may feel we know everything about our loved ones, but may in fact, do not. This story also showed that while the marriage certainly had its ups and downs, there was still a bond that kept this couple together for 46 years.
This book is worth the read. It makes one think.
Raising Wrecker: A Novel
by Summer Wood
Wrecker......worth a read (11/9/2010)
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a very descriptive story with characters that seemed to come alive. The little boy had parts of any little boy I have ever known. The other characters in the book were truly unique. While it was sad to see the boy taken from his mother, he probably had a much better (certainly more interesting life) with his "adopted family". I think almost anyone who reads the book will like it.
An Amish Christmas: A Novel
by Cynthia Keller
An Amish Christmas (8/28/2010)
This was an enjoyable and interesting read. The author did a good job of developing the characters. I laughed out loud at times because the attitudes of two of the children (teenagers) were so believable. Given today’s economic climate, the situation the Hobart family found themselves in was also believable. The story described a family who found out that having the best and most is not always the happiest. It also addressed how technology can drive us apart as well as keep us in touch. I enjoyed the information presented about the Amish culture. I have done a lot of reading on this subject and what was presented in an Amish Christmas was very consistent with what I have read. It is an easy read that will leave you feeling good.
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