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Reviews by Sue D. (Hudsonville, MI)

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The Family Izquierdo: A Novel
by Rubén Degollado

Family (9/5/2022)

The format of this book was a little off putting at first, but I grew to love the connected short story format, as that seems to be representative of this family's dynamic. They are a large and disparate bunch, but love each other fiercely, and even though they have difficulties, they persevere.

Beirut Hellfire Society
by Rawi Hage

Chaos Reigns (6/5/2019)

This is my first Rawi Hage, but not my last. The absurdity and chaos of trying to live in a city in the midst of war is brilliantly conveyed through a writing style that is frenetic, poetic, often energetic, and insane. Pavlov is a relatable, somewhat unreliable, sometimes lovable, main character. I highly recommend this disturbing, important novel.

Golden Child
by Claire Adam

Twins (12/3/2018)

Golden Child is set in Trinidad and the descriptions of the country, culture, and environs engulf the story. The father of twin boys is ultimately faced with an impossible decision, and they all must deal with the consequences. Claire Adam is an exceptional writer. Her style is spare and succinct and clear and heart wrenching.

The Family Tabor
by Cherise Wolas

Another Triumph (6/4/2018)

Cherise Wolas follows The Resurrection of Joan Ashby with another wonderfully written novel. I was engaged from page one to the end with this family's secrets, past and present. The characters are well drawn and true to life. I love this author's way with words.

The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After
by Elizabeth Weil, Clemantine Wamariya

Brutally Honest (5/14/2018)

This is one of the most difficult books I have read, yet it is an essential read. It is at once a memoir and an expose. How can I ever relate to Clemantine’s life? I will never know her tragedy. The terrible genocide that was visited upon the Tutsi by the Hutu majority government becomes more than real in Clemantine’s telling. I will never think of a refugee camp again with anything but horror.

Tin Man
by Sarah Winman

Heart Breaking and Healing (5/14/2018)

I loved this book. It is sweet and tender and ruthless and heartbreaking. As I read the last page and realized it was the end, I actually said, “No!” Out loud. This book broke my heart and healed my heart.

The Resurrection of Joan Ashby
by Cherise Wolas

My friend, Joan Ashby (6/10/2017)

I fell in love with this book from the very first word. Cherise Wolas is my new favorite author. I love books about author's writing processes, and this is the best book of that genre that I have read. It makes me wish Joan Ashby was my best friend. I highly recommend it.

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