Being an avid birder I wanted to read this book with the cute Screech Owl on the cover. I thought that it would be an interesting and entertaining story of a man and his relationship with a young owl that he rescued. He certainly loves his owl and it is a great story,
yet it turns out to be about so much more than his time raising this owl. The book is insightful, thoughtful and even spiritual at times.
His writing is sometimes poetic. It is not a light read and it provides much to ponder. Looking back over many centuries of thinkers, philosophers, and scientists, readers are shown that what we in the West have come to believe, does affect our relationships with other people and the planet. Safina's book has stayed with me and kept me thinking about it after I finished the last page. Those who are interested in western philosophy and ecology would enjoy this book.

This book was hard for me to get into as I found it to be slow and quirky. At times I felt detached from the characters. The ending was wonderful, sad, full of heart and hope that pulled it all together in a satisfying, but tearful way. Cat lovers wanting a tender story about the deep connections we make with our feline friends may enjoy this heartfelt tale.

I enjoyed, America For Beginners, and found it to be a pleasant and satisfying read. Traveling across America together are 3 people from completely different cultural backgrounds. Their friendships and clashes lead them each to an awakening of who they are, what they want and how to find satisfaction and happiness. The book is emotional, but still an easy read infused with humor. Having spent time in India only made this story more charming to me.

It was fascinating to learn more about the seldom discussed Spanish Flu of 1918, in Susan Meissner's historical fiction, As Bright as Heaven. This well told story is explained through the eyes of 3 sisters in a family who run a funeral home in Philadelphia. The subject matter is not always easy, yet there is much warmth, and excellent character development. The resiliency of the human spirit, despite
huge set backs, and doing the best with what life hands you are the primary themes of this book. I looked forward to my time spent reading this one and am glad I chose this selection to review. I whole-heartedly recommend it to those curious about the Spanish Flu who want a feel good book with a love story to boot!