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I don't like all of Lillian Hellman's work, but I did enjoy reading this book. It is a collection of short stories and diary entries that give a glimpse into the live of creatives from the late 1930s to the late 1960s.
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Book 662: An Unfinished Woman
An Unfinished Woman, by Lillian Hellman, 1969.
I don't like all of Lillian Hellman's work, but I did enjoy reading this book. It is a collection of short stories and diary entries that give a glimpse into the live of creatives from the late 1930s to the late 1960s.
I don't like all of Lillian Hellman's work, but I did enjoy reading this book. It is a collection of short stories and diary entries that give a glimpse into the live of creatives from the late 1930s to the late 1960s.
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Book 661: George vs. George
George vs. George, by Rosalyn Schanzer, National Geographic, 2007.
I bought this book for my fourth-grade son, but the book looked so darn intriguing I had to read it first.
I spend five years, from age 10 to age 15, living in England. In History class in England, we covered the "Rebellion" in about a day. It meant the loss of some colonies with a mostly criminal element to the British. Of course, to the Americans, it was the forming of a new country -- our country.
This book doesn't romanticize the war or gloss over some of the barbaric performed by both sides. It does show Washington as a hero, but it also shows the humanity of George III.
I bought this book for my fourth-grade son, but the book looked so darn intriguing I had to read it first.
I spend five years, from age 10 to age 15, living in England. In History class in England, we covered the "Rebellion" in about a day. It meant the loss of some colonies with a mostly criminal element to the British. Of course, to the Americans, it was the forming of a new country -- our country.
This book doesn't romanticize the war or gloss over some of the barbaric performed by both sides. It does show Washington as a hero, but it also shows the humanity of George III.
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Book 660: The Most of John Held, Jr
The Most of John Held, Jr, The Stephen Greene Press, 1972.
I have loved John Held, Jr's work since I first encountered it in my late teens. I loved his clean, spare lines and the overt humor in his drawings. I knew who he was; I knew his work; but I didn't know there was a book about him and his work.
Now I have an almost-ten-year-old son who loves to draw comic maps in a style not dissimilar to Held's. When I was researching Held's maps to show my son, I discovered this book. Of course I bought it, although I don't know if it for me or for my son.
I have loved John Held, Jr's work since I first encountered it in my late teens. I loved his clean, spare lines and the overt humor in his drawings. I knew who he was; I knew his work; but I didn't know there was a book about him and his work.
Now I have an almost-ten-year-old son who loves to draw comic maps in a style not dissimilar to Held's. When I was researching Held's maps to show my son, I discovered this book. Of course I bought it, although I don't know if it for me or for my son.
Sunday, November 4, 2018
Book 659: Common Sense
Common Sense, by Thomas Paine, 1776.
I've owned a copy of this book for about twenty years, and I may have read it twenty years, but re-reading it now made it feel especially fresh and apropos. Maybe we are lacking common sense these days as a nation or maybe we no longer know what causes are worth the fight, but it does seem we've lost a lot since Thomas Paine wrote this book.
I've owned a copy of this book for about twenty years, and I may have read it twenty years, but re-reading it now made it feel especially fresh and apropos. Maybe we are lacking common sense these days as a nation or maybe we no longer know what causes are worth the fight, but it does seem we've lost a lot since Thomas Paine wrote this book.
Monday, October 29, 2018
Book 658: Strega Nona
Strega Nona, by Tomie dePaola, 1975.
This book is a classic, and deservedly so; Tomie dePaola is a national treasure. This book is beautifully illustrated, and the story, which is not dissimilar to The Sorcerer's Apprentice, is told with gentleness and humor. Tomie dePaola by no means rested after his early achievements: He has another book coming out this year.
This book is a classic, and deservedly so; Tomie dePaola is a national treasure. This book is beautifully illustrated, and the story, which is not dissimilar to The Sorcerer's Apprentice, is told with gentleness and humor. Tomie dePaola by no means rested after his early achievements: He has another book coming out this year.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Book 657: 100 Ghastly Little Ghostly Stories
100 Ghastly Little Ghostly Stories, 1993.
Some of these stories are perfect little gems (I'm looking at you, Oscar Wilde); some are diamonds in the rough; and some are pyrite. Overall, this book was well-worth the less-than-$10 I paid for it, and the three evenings I spent reading it.
Some of these stories are perfect little gems (I'm looking at you, Oscar Wilde); some are diamonds in the rough; and some are pyrite. Overall, this book was well-worth the less-than-$10 I paid for it, and the three evenings I spent reading it.
Saturday, October 20, 2018
Book 656: Great Tales of Suspense
Great Tales of Suspense, Troll Books, 2002.
Some of the tales are great; some are not so great. Some of the tales are suspenseful; some are not so suspenseful. This book is pretty much representative of any collection of stories.
Some of the tales are great; some are not so great. Some of the tales are suspenseful; some are not so suspenseful. This book is pretty much representative of any collection of stories.
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Book 655: The Tiger Rising
The Tiger Rising, Kate DiCamillo, Candlewick Press, 2015
Kate DiCamillo writes such heartbreaking fiction. That doesn't mean it is bad. That doesn't mean it isn't worth reading. In fact, quite the opposite of those two ideas would be true. But, although this book is rather a fast read, it is not a very easy read. And it does end with both a sacrifice and a redemption.
Kate DiCamillo writes such heartbreaking fiction. That doesn't mean it is bad. That doesn't mean it isn't worth reading. In fact, quite the opposite of those two ideas would be true. But, although this book is rather a fast read, it is not a very easy read. And it does end with both a sacrifice and a redemption.
Monday, October 8, 2018
Book 654: The Arabian Nights
The Arabian Nights, illustrated by Maxfield Parrish.
This book is gorgeous, thanks to Maxfield Parrish. But the stories themselves are interestingly-told, with a quaint old-world wiseness that seems to be missing from modern writing. Some I liked better than others, but that is true about any collection of stories.
This book is gorgeous, thanks to Maxfield Parrish. But the stories themselves are interestingly-told, with a quaint old-world wiseness that seems to be missing from modern writing. Some I liked better than others, but that is true about any collection of stories.
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
Book 653: Fear
Fear, by Bob Woodward, Simon & Schuster, 2018.
I finished reading this book on Thursday, while checking in with the Kavanaugh hearing. Thursday was a rough and scary day.
Because I read this book, I understand Senator Graham's outburst at the hearing. I knew exactly what he was doing. I also knew exactly why, on Friday, Graham had the job of telling Trump about the wanted investigation.
I hardly need say Bob Woodward is a brilliant writer -- he is. He wrote what happened in the White House, without judgment, and with various degrees of sympathy. Even so, this book is perfectly named.
I finished reading this book on Thursday, while checking in with the Kavanaugh hearing. Thursday was a rough and scary day.
Because I read this book, I understand Senator Graham's outburst at the hearing. I knew exactly what he was doing. I also knew exactly why, on Friday, Graham had the job of telling Trump about the wanted investigation.
I hardly need say Bob Woodward is a brilliant writer -- he is. He wrote what happened in the White House, without judgment, and with various degrees of sympathy. Even so, this book is perfectly named.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Book 652: The Good, the Bad, and the Goofy (Time Warp Trio)
The Good, the Bad, and the Goofy (Time Warp Trio), by John Scieszka, 1992.
This book was indeed goofy, and rather fun, and very quick to read. There is a lot of action and dialogue and silly situations. So, pretty much perfect for a nine-year-old boy.
This book was indeed goofy, and rather fun, and very quick to read. There is a lot of action and dialogue and silly situations. So, pretty much perfect for a nine-year-old boy.
Monday, September 24, 2018
Book 651: Barn Storm
Barn Storm, written by Charles Ghihna, illustrated by Diane Greenseid, Random House, 2010.
This is a fun easy-to-read book for emergency readers. Both the text and the illustrations are delightful.
This is a fun easy-to-read book for emergency readers. Both the text and the illustrations are delightful.
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Book 650: A Tale of Two Cities
A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens, 1869.
Of course this book is a classic.
It deserves to be a classic just based on its opening paragraph. But the story doesn't stop there. Through a series of twists and tangles, the reader is transported to the very confusing time of the French Revolution. And through a series of twists and tangles, both the darkest and the best natures of man (and woman) are revealed.
Of course this book is a classic.
It deserves to be a classic just based on its opening paragraph. But the story doesn't stop there. Through a series of twists and tangles, the reader is transported to the very confusing time of the French Revolution. And through a series of twists and tangles, both the darkest and the best natures of man (and woman) are revealed.
Monday, September 3, 2018
Book 649: Tombs
Tombs, edited by Peter Crowther, 1994.
This book is an anthology of stories about 'tombs', some literal, some figurative. Like all stories collections, this book is good, bad, and indifferent. I skimmed through about one-third of the stories because they didn't interest me at all. Of those I read thoroughly to the end, some were OK, but nothing memorable. A few, however, were so intriguing that I was led to research other books by those authors. So, all in all, this book is a pretty successful anthology.
This book is an anthology of stories about 'tombs', some literal, some figurative. Like all stories collections, this book is good, bad, and indifferent. I skimmed through about one-third of the stories because they didn't interest me at all. Of those I read thoroughly to the end, some were OK, but nothing memorable. A few, however, were so intriguing that I was led to research other books by those authors. So, all in all, this book is a pretty successful anthology.
Thursday, August 30, 2018
Book 648: Of Enemies and Endings
Of Enemies and Endings, by Shelby Bach, Simon & Schuster, 2015.
This book, the final book, is the best book of the entire excellent series. This book has everything a middle-grader/YA could possibly want. It even has a not-entirely-settled ending, so the characters can live on and have adventures in the readers' minds.
This book, the final book, is the best book of the entire excellent series. This book has everything a middle-grader/YA could possibly want. It even has a not-entirely-settled ending, so the characters can live on and have adventures in the readers' minds.
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Book 647: The Runaway Jury
The Runaway Jury, by John Grisham, Doubleday, 1996.
This book reads like a screenplay... probably for very obvious reasons. The story itself is not nearly as intriguing nor as plausible as you might expect from Grisham.
This book reads like a screenplay... probably for very obvious reasons. The story itself is not nearly as intriguing nor as plausible as you might expect from Grisham.
Sunday, August 19, 2018
Book 646: The Bravest Dog Ever, the True Story of Balto
The Bravest Dog Ever, the True Story of Balto, by Natalie Standford.
This book is excellent for young readers who may not be entirely confident in their reading ability yet. The story is quick-paced and exciting (and true.)
This book is excellent for young readers who may not be entirely confident in their reading ability yet. The story is quick-paced and exciting (and true.)
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Book 645: Dewey's Nine Lives
Dewey's Nine Lives, by Vicki Myron, Penguin Group, 2010.
The original Dewey, and Dewey story, was charming and memorable. I read the book years ago, and it has stayed with me. These short stories are sweet -- as almost all cats can be -- but they match up to the original.
The original Dewey, and Dewey story, was charming and memorable. I read the book years ago, and it has stayed with me. These short stories are sweet -- as almost all cats can be -- but they match up to the original.
Saturday, August 4, 2018
Book 644: The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, by William Kamkwamha, HarperCollins, 2009.
This is a pretty remarkable book. It is a story about starvation and deprivation. But it also a story about curiosity and imagination, and their power to end starvation and deprivation.
This is a pretty remarkable book. It is a story about starvation and deprivation. But it also a story about curiosity and imagination, and their power to end starvation and deprivation.
Monday, July 30, 2018
Book 643: The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson and Those Extraordinary Twins
The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson and Those Extraordinary Twins, by Mark Twain
The first story, The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson, is quite good, if rather dated in ideals and speech. The second story, Those Extraordinary Twins, was written with the throwaway bits from the first story, and it feels like it. My recommendation: Stop after the first story. The second story does tackle the nature/nurture debate, but so do many other books that are worth reading.
The first story, The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson, is quite good, if rather dated in ideals and speech. The second story, Those Extraordinary Twins, was written with the throwaway bits from the first story, and it feels like it. My recommendation: Stop after the first story. The second story does tackle the nature/nurture debate, but so do many other books that are worth reading.
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Book 642: Stormy Weather
Stormy Weather, by Carl Hiaasen, Knopf, 1995.
This book is good -- if you like Carl Hiaasen's writing. They tend either to be an acquired taste, or a perfect fit for those with a frenetic, dark, and irreverent sense of humor -- although those two may turn out to be the same thing.
This book takes place during the hurricane "Storm of the Century", and intersects the seemingly normal of society with those on the fringe. Of course, in typical Hiassen fashion, those lines blur, too.
This book is good -- if you like Carl Hiaasen's writing. They tend either to be an acquired taste, or a perfect fit for those with a frenetic, dark, and irreverent sense of humor -- although those two may turn out to be the same thing.
This book takes place during the hurricane "Storm of the Century", and intersects the seemingly normal of society with those on the fringe. Of course, in typical Hiassen fashion, those lines blur, too.
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Book 641: Heart of Darkness and The Secret Sharer
The Heart of Darkness and The Secret Sharer, by Joseph Conrad, originally published 1902.
Heart of Darkness is a classic, and justifiably so, but The Secret Sharer is the story that haunted me. I guess that was the purpose of the story -- to confront oneself and to be haunted. Where Heart of Darkness is heavy-handed, The Secret Sharer is much lighter, even venturing into humor, and that is what makes it the more effective story.
Heart of Darkness is a classic, and justifiably so, but The Secret Sharer is the story that haunted me. I guess that was the purpose of the story -- to confront oneself and to be haunted. Where Heart of Darkness is heavy-handed, The Secret Sharer is much lighter, even venturing into humor, and that is what makes it the more effective story.
Monday, July 16, 2018
Book 640: Riverboy
Riverboy, by Billy Clark, originally published 1958, this edition by The Jesse Stuart Foundation, 1997.
The writing for this short story is clunky and choppy, and very repetitive, but the story itself is quite good.
The writing for this short story is clunky and choppy, and very repetitive, but the story itself is quite good.
Sunday, July 15, 2018
Book 639: Elegy for Iris
Elegy for Iris, by John Bayley, St. Martin's Press, 1999.
This was a hard book to read, but not for the reason I thought it would be. It wasn't Iris Murdoch Alzheimer's disease that was so hard to read about. It was John Murdoch's response to it that was hard. My father died of Alzheimer's disease last June; he had been an aerospace engineer, and had had a sharp, quick sense of humor. It was very hard to see my father regress into himself, but my interaction with my father wasn't about me. It wasn't about trying to make my father understand who I was, or to make him give me a smile, or to force him to confront a semblance of reality. My relationship with my father in his final days was about him. Although John Murdoch can disguise his selfishness with beautifully crafted language, his relationship with Iris in her final days was all about him.
This was a hard book to read, but not for the reason I thought it would be. It wasn't Iris Murdoch Alzheimer's disease that was so hard to read about. It was John Murdoch's response to it that was hard. My father died of Alzheimer's disease last June; he had been an aerospace engineer, and had had a sharp, quick sense of humor. It was very hard to see my father regress into himself, but my interaction with my father wasn't about me. It wasn't about trying to make my father understand who I was, or to make him give me a smile, or to force him to confront a semblance of reality. My relationship with my father in his final days was about him. Although John Murdoch can disguise his selfishness with beautifully crafted language, his relationship with Iris in her final days was all about him.
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Book 638: Poirot, the Post War Years
Poirot: The Post War Years, by Agatha Christie, collection published by HarperCollins, 2005.
I would give the entire book five stars, even though I would give some of the individual stories only four stars, because, when taken as a whole, these four stories tell a fifth story, and that fifth story is worth reading.
Poirot is older -- elderly, in fact -- and long-retired. Hastings is in South America. Japp is out of the picture. Only Miss Lemon remains to make an appearance. An elderly attorney named Endicott becomes Poirot's foil in this set of stories, sometimes willingly and sometimes less willingly. But Poirot is every bit as sharp as ever.
I would give the entire book five stars, even though I would give some of the individual stories only four stars, because, when taken as a whole, these four stories tell a fifth story, and that fifth story is worth reading.
Poirot is older -- elderly, in fact -- and long-retired. Hastings is in South America. Japp is out of the picture. Only Miss Lemon remains to make an appearance. An elderly attorney named Endicott becomes Poirot's foil in this set of stories, sometimes willingly and sometimes less willingly. But Poirot is every bit as sharp as ever.
Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Book 637: Something Special
Something Special, by Iris Murdoch, Norton, 2000.
This was a short story that Iris Murdoch didn't write. The story was put together from her notes after her death, so it probably wasn't in a final form she would have written. Does this matter? Maybe
The writing is a bit clunky, and the characters are one-dimensional. Had Murdoch developed this story, these two issues might have been overcome. As it stands, the story is a sad one of a young woman who hasn't many prospects in life.
This was a short story that Iris Murdoch didn't write. The story was put together from her notes after her death, so it probably wasn't in a final form she would have written. Does this matter? Maybe
The writing is a bit clunky, and the characters are one-dimensional. Had Murdoch developed this story, these two issues might have been overcome. As it stands, the story is a sad one of a young woman who hasn't many prospects in life.
Thursday, July 5, 2018
Book 636: The Complete Short Stories
The Complete Short Stories, by Anton Chekhov.
So much of Chekov's writing could be summed up with 'be careful what you wish for', only, of course, why sum up his writing? Why miss out on the beautifully-rendered heartbreak and achingly gorgeous settings and whip-smart, startling dialogue?
So much of Chekov's writing could be summed up with 'be careful what you wish for', only, of course, why sum up his writing? Why miss out on the beautifully-rendered heartbreak and achingly gorgeous settings and whip-smart, startling dialogue?
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Book 635: Weird But True, The Human Body
Weird But True, The Human Body, National Geographic Kids, 2017.
My nine-year-old son's favorite word is 'weird', and he will read anything that is science-based, so he loved this series. He really enjoyed sharing with me his newly-acquired facts about the human body.
My nine-year-old son's favorite word is 'weird', and he will read anything that is science-based, so he loved this series. He really enjoyed sharing with me his newly-acquired facts about the human body.
Monday, July 2, 2018
Book 634: Dewey, the Small-Town Library Cat
Dewey, the Small-Town Library Cat, by Vicki Myron, Grand Central Publishing, 2008.
This book is perfect for anyone who loves books and cats. Dewey was found as a kitten in the book return, and his life, and the lives of the those in the library, were changed and enriched.
This book is perfect for anyone who loves books and cats. Dewey was found as a kitten in the book return, and his life, and the lives of the those in the library, were changed and enriched.
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Book 633: The Three-Penny Opera
The Three-Penny Opera, by Bertolt Brecht, opera date 1928.
I'm giving this book five stars because of the opera. The text is amusing and wry, but you need the music to fully appreciate it. Fortunately, with Google and Youtube, it is not hard to find sung versions of the songs, including ones by Lotte Lenya (who later turned Bond villain).
Sunday, June 24, 2018
Book 632: Tenth of December
Tenth of December, by George Saunders, Random House, 2013.
George Saunders is a master of the modern short story. Alas, he may be too good. These stories were a little too brutal, too honest for me to enjoy them too much. These days, I read to escape. These stories, although fiction, will not allow you to escape, but rather will force you to confront.
George Saunders is a master of the modern short story. Alas, he may be too good. These stories were a little too brutal, too honest for me to enjoy them too much. These days, I read to escape. These stories, although fiction, will not allow you to escape, but rather will force you to confront.
Saturday, June 16, 2018
Book 631: How to Write Poetry
How to Write Poetry, by Nancy Bogen, Prentice Hall Press, 1991.
The first few chapters were not especially helpful, but once you reach the examples of the styles of poetry, this book does become more useful. In fact, this book could form an excellent class on how to READ poetry.
The first few chapters were not especially helpful, but once you reach the examples of the styles of poetry, this book does become more useful. In fact, this book could form an excellent class on how to READ poetry.
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
Book 630: The Forsyte Saga
The Forsyte Saga, by John Galsworthy, original publication 1920, this edition Scribner's 2002.
This story collection includes the Forsyte trilogy, plus the two intermission short stories. The short stories should not be overlooked, especially the first one.
I remember reading this book about ten years ago and feeling almost sympathetic for Soames by the conclusion. That still happened when I read it again this month. Fleur, however, seems far more tragic at the conclusion of the book this time. Either I'm turning romantic, or I can see how Fleur's marriage will end up. It's probably the latter.
This story collection includes the Forsyte trilogy, plus the two intermission short stories. The short stories should not be overlooked, especially the first one.
I remember reading this book about ten years ago and feeling almost sympathetic for Soames by the conclusion. That still happened when I read it again this month. Fleur, however, seems far more tragic at the conclusion of the book this time. Either I'm turning romantic, or I can see how Fleur's marriage will end up. It's probably the latter.
Monday, June 11, 2018
Book 629: Sir Cumference and the First Round Table
Sir Cumference and the First Round Table, written by Cindy Neuschwander, illustrated by Wayne Geehan, Charlesbridge, 1997.
I remember first discovering this books over ten years ago when I was working as a children's librarian. At the time, I thought they were clever and were a fun way to introduce elementary school children to mathematical terms and ideas. I still think all that. The story isn't exactly brilliant, but it isn't bad, either. And I do wish the book had taken the idea a little further to incorporate actual math, such as finding the circumference and the area of the circle. But overall, this book still holds up quite well.
I remember first discovering this books over ten years ago when I was working as a children's librarian. At the time, I thought they were clever and were a fun way to introduce elementary school children to mathematical terms and ideas. I still think all that. The story isn't exactly brilliant, but it isn't bad, either. And I do wish the book had taken the idea a little further to incorporate actual math, such as finding the circumference and the area of the circle. But overall, this book still holds up quite well.
Sunday, June 10, 2018
Book 628: The Same Sky
The Same Sky, by Amanda Eyre Ward, Random House, 2015.
This book does not have the tightest writing or the best character development. Flipping between two people and their points of view caused me to lose interest in the book for a while. BUT, the topic is timely and heartbreaking. The contrast between the undocumented child coming to the US from Honduras, not for a better life or the "American dream", but for a life or at least a chance at life, and the averagely-successful American woman who longed for a child was staggering and eye-opening.
This book was so well-researched that the descriptions became vivid and painful. And the quote at the end: "These children have the spiritual capital that Americans need" made me see my own life a little more clearly.
This book does not have the tightest writing or the best character development. Flipping between two people and their points of view caused me to lose interest in the book for a while. BUT, the topic is timely and heartbreaking. The contrast between the undocumented child coming to the US from Honduras, not for a better life or the "American dream", but for a life or at least a chance at life, and the averagely-successful American woman who longed for a child was staggering and eye-opening.
This book was so well-researched that the descriptions became vivid and painful. And the quote at the end: "These children have the spiritual capital that Americans need" made me see my own life a little more clearly.
Saturday, June 9, 2018
Book 627: The Cocktail Party
The Cocktail Party, by T. S. Eliot, Harcourt, Brace, 1949.
This is one of the books (plays) where you are laughing at the foibles of everyday, although rather privileged, people living everyday, although rather privileged, lives. Then the story turns rather mysterious and sinister, only to end up with a 'what-just-happened' moment. Altogether, the book/play was jarring and thought-provoking.
This is one of the books (plays) where you are laughing at the foibles of everyday, although rather privileged, people living everyday, although rather privileged, lives. Then the story turns rather mysterious and sinister, only to end up with a 'what-just-happened' moment. Altogether, the book/play was jarring and thought-provoking.
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Book 626: Martha Speaks, Sniffing for Clues Collection
Martha Speaks, Sniffing for Clues Collection, based on characters created by Susan Meddaugh, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015.
This was a fun three-in-one collection of Martha mysteries. The stories were based on the television show (which was based on the original picture book), but they still worked surprisingly well.
Monday, June 4, 2018
Book 625: Young Naturalist's Pop-Up Handbook, Beetles
Young Naturalist's Pop-Up Handbook: Beetles, by Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart, Hyperion Books, 2001.
I bought this book because... well... POP-UP BOOK! For the record, this book is awesome. Not so much for the subject matter -- I don't especially like beetles -- but for the paper engineer and the colorful and detailed illustrations.
I bought this book because... well... POP-UP BOOK! For the record, this book is awesome. Not so much for the subject matter -- I don't especially like beetles -- but for the paper engineer and the colorful and detailed illustrations.
Monday, May 28, 2018
Book 624: The Book of Gold
The Book of Gold, by Bob Staake, Schwartz and Wade Books, 2017.
I am lifting my review of this book from a letter my third-grade son wrote for a writing assignment. (He received 100%).
"(The Book of Gold) is a wonderful book. I've read it three times already.
I liked The Book of Gold because it starts in the old days. I also liked it because it was a world-traveling, time-traveling book. My favorite part was when Isaac learned to love reading books.
I am interested in the world and vintage times, and I also like to read books. I really liked how the illustrations turned from sepia to color."
I am lifting my review of this book from a letter my third-grade son wrote for a writing assignment. (He received 100%).
"(The Book of Gold) is a wonderful book. I've read it three times already.
I liked The Book of Gold because it starts in the old days. I also liked it because it was a world-traveling, time-traveling book. My favorite part was when Isaac learned to love reading books.
I am interested in the world and vintage times, and I also like to read books. I really liked how the illustrations turned from sepia to color."
Friday, May 25, 2018
Book 623: Obedience, Simple Solutions
Obedience: Simple Solutions, by Kim Campbell Thornton, illustrated by Buck Jones, Bowtie Press, 2003.
This super-simple, super-fast-to-read book is great for new owners of dogs (and maybe even owners of new dogs). It wouldn't replace an obedience training course, though.
This super-simple, super-fast-to-read book is great for new owners of dogs (and maybe even owners of new dogs). It wouldn't replace an obedience training course, though.
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Book 622: The Song of the Lark
The Song of the Lark, by Willa Cather, 1915.
This book may be part of a trilogy, but it stands just fine on its own.
Thea is a magnetic character. I mean that in the sense that she does attract lesser spheres into her orbit. But I also mean that in the sense that a magnet has two opposite poles. She repels those who are most like her, and she swings from passion to passion.
I am an ordinary person with a small stable of talents. After reading this book, I am grateful for my ordinariness.
This book may be part of a trilogy, but it stands just fine on its own.
Thea is a magnetic character. I mean that in the sense that she does attract lesser spheres into her orbit. But I also mean that in the sense that a magnet has two opposite poles. She repels those who are most like her, and she swings from passion to passion.
I am an ordinary person with a small stable of talents. After reading this book, I am grateful for my ordinariness.
Thursday, May 17, 2018
Book 621: Algebra & Geometry, Anything But Square
Algebra & Geometry, Anything But Square, by Dan Green, Basher Book 2011.
My third-grade son loves these Basher books. I know he likes them mostly because of the quirky illustrations. But I also know he has learned facts from them -- facts that may not have made sense to him at the time he learned them, but later he was able to relate what he had learned from these books to what he was learning in school.
My third-grade son loves these Basher books. I know he likes them mostly because of the quirky illustrations. But I also know he has learned facts from them -- facts that may not have made sense to him at the time he learned them, but later he was able to relate what he had learned from these books to what he was learning in school.
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Book 620: A Cup of Comfort for Mothers and Sons
A Cup of Comfort for Mothers and Sons, edited by Colleen Sell, Adams Media, 2005.
This book was a bit gorpy and a bit sweet -- exactly what I expected it to be. It also made me a bit sad, which I did not expect.
I have a young son. We have special rituals and special activities and a special bond. I'm not sharing any of it here, and that kind of is the point. What makes all of them so special is that it is between only us.
This book was a bit gorpy and a bit sweet -- exactly what I expected it to be. It also made me a bit sad, which I did not expect.
I have a young son. We have special rituals and special activities and a special bond. I'm not sharing any of it here, and that kind of is the point. What makes all of them so special is that it is between only us.
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Book 619: Prelude For War
Prelude for War, by Leslie Charteris, 1938.
This book was written before the start of World War II, yet the world clearly is on the brink of war. Perhaps that is why this book is an uncomfortable read -- we all know what will happen. Even the Saint could not save the world from war.
This book was written before the start of World War II, yet the world clearly is on the brink of war. Perhaps that is why this book is an uncomfortable read -- we all know what will happen. Even the Saint could not save the world from war.
Saturday, May 12, 2018
Book 618: More Ghost Stories
For a ghost story anthology, this is not a bad collection. A few stories are a bit shiver-inducing, but not nightmare-causing, a few are classics, and a few are just sweet. Almost all are well-written. My nine-year-old son wants to read some ghost stories. I'll let him start with this book.
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Book 617: Thieves' Picnic
Thieves' Picnic, by Leslie Charteris, 1937.
This book isn't the best or the brightest of the Saint series. In fact, if I had read this book first and didn't know anything else about the Saint, I wouldn't like him very much. Nor would I like the author very much. So, if you are new to the series, don't start with this book.
This book isn't the best or the brightest of the Saint series. In fact, if I had read this book first and didn't know anything else about the Saint, I wouldn't like him very much. Nor would I like the author very much. So, if you are new to the series, don't start with this book.
Monday, May 7, 2018
Book 616: Why a Son Needs a Mom
Why a Son Needs a Mom, by Gregory Lang, Cumberlane Press, 2007.
This book is a sweet -- although at times TOO sweet -- reminder of what is important in life. It is also a good book to read on the day your third-grade son has a meltdown and screams that he doesn't like you anymore.
This book is a sweet -- although at times TOO sweet -- reminder of what is important in life. It is also a good book to read on the day your third-grade son has a meltdown and screams that he doesn't like you anymore.
Saturday, May 5, 2018
Book 615: The Saint in New York
The Saint in New York, by Leslie Charteris, 1934.
The Saint is a pretty durable character, in every sense of the phrase. This book feels like a slice of history where organized crime in New York City controls the city and most of the government. Oh, wait... Maybe not so 'historical' after all.
The Saint is a pretty durable character, in every sense of the phrase. This book feels like a slice of history where organized crime in New York City controls the city and most of the government. Oh, wait... Maybe not so 'historical' after all.
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Book 614: The Adventures of Baron Munchausen
The Adventures of Baron Munchause, by Terry Gilliam and Charles McKeown.
This book is a rather uninspired version of a delightful movie. Very rarely can I say the movie is better, but, in this case, the movie is better.
This book is a rather uninspired version of a delightful movie. Very rarely can I say the movie is better, but, in this case, the movie is better.
Monday, April 30, 2018
Book 613: Birthday Letters
Birthday Letters, by Ted Hughes, Farrar, Straus and Girouox, 1998.
If you want to feel some sympathy for Ted Hughes, this would be exactly the right book to read. All I got out of it was that Hughes was acutely aware of his own emotions, and yet vaguely, or not at all aware, of the emotions of others.
If you want to feel some sympathy for Ted Hughes, this would be exactly the right book to read. All I got out of it was that Hughes was acutely aware of his own emotions, and yet vaguely, or not at all aware, of the emotions of others.
Saturday, April 28, 2018
Book 612: The Last Tycoon
The Last Tycoon, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Scribners, 1941.
This, the unfinished final novel of F. Scott Fitzgerald, would probably have been his finest novel. I don't use that phrase lightly. Fitzgerald turned out many fine, thought-provoking novels, but this one draws the reader in, and, even before reaching the heart-wrenching, drafted conclusion, leaves the reader aching for both the narrator and the titular character.
This, the unfinished final novel of F. Scott Fitzgerald, would probably have been his finest novel. I don't use that phrase lightly. Fitzgerald turned out many fine, thought-provoking novels, but this one draws the reader in, and, even before reaching the heart-wrenching, drafted conclusion, leaves the reader aching for both the narrator and the titular character.
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Book 611: The Winged Cat
The Winged Cat, by Deborah Nourse Lattimore, HarperCollins, 1992.
This book is perfect for any child who loves cats, beautiful artwork, history, and different cultures -- in other words, my child. My son LOVED this book because he always wants to know not only 'why', but 'when', 'what', 'where', and 'how'.
This book is perfect for any child who loves cats, beautiful artwork, history, and different cultures -- in other words, my child. My son LOVED this book because he always wants to know not only 'why', but 'when', 'what', 'where', and 'how'.
Sunday, April 22, 2018
Book 610: The Turquoise Bee
The Turquoise Bee, poems by the Sixth Dalai Lama, translated by Rick Field, Harper Books, 1994.
I'm not sure what I expected when I bought this book of poetry. I guess I was intrigued by the idea. Anyway, I put it in a bookcase and forgot about it for several years. Now I'm culling through my books, and found it.
It is an intriguing book. The history of the Sixth Dalai Lama is found in the opening pages, and could in itself make an interesting film. The poetry itself was charged with energy and sensuality, and the very last poem was heartbreaking.
I'm not sure what I expected when I bought this book of poetry. I guess I was intrigued by the idea. Anyway, I put it in a bookcase and forgot about it for several years. Now I'm culling through my books, and found it.
It is an intriguing book. The history of the Sixth Dalai Lama is found in the opening pages, and could in itself make an interesting film. The poetry itself was charged with energy and sensuality, and the very last poem was heartbreaking.
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