Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: December

I know some of you find these entries boring, but, hey, whatever! With this one, I'm finally done, anyway! BTW, I've been told by some that my reviews are funny

:-)

The Murder of King Tut: The Plot to Kill the Child King - A Nonfiction Thriller by James Patterson (CD): Hated It/1 Star

Oh,where do I begin to chronicle how stupid this book was? I'd give it a big fat GOOSE EGG, if it were allowed!

Seriously, had it been an actual book instead of a (borrowed from the library) CD, I would have thrown this piece of trash across the room.

"So", my husband said to me, "If you dislike James Patterson so much" (which I do, I truly do) "why did you even check this out?"

Well, let's see.

Momentary lapse of reason, perhaps?

No.

1st. I'll never forget studying ancient Egypt in 6th grade. I even made a pyramid with a little mummy inside as a class project. So, I've been entranced with it ever since. I also saw the traveling Tut show in Chicago many, many moons ago.

2nd. This book was advertised as NONFICTION, so, I thought, it would be NONFICTION. Meaning, FACTUAL.

3rd. It was short.

This "nonfiction" book is laid out in three periods of time. Ancient Egypt (1300s BC), early 20th (1900s-1930s) and present day.

So, Tut's time (and a bit before and a bit after), Howard Carter (the dude who eventually discovered Tut's tomb) and Patterson's.

Patterson talks about his "great idea" to solve the mystery of who murdered King Tut. He gets his publisher to agree and then sends the guy who co-authored the book off to Egypt to do research (it seems Patterson never gets off his butt from behind his desk in his office in his lovely FL home where he is, as he constantly reminds us, surrounded by manuscripts of all his other multitude of projects).

From what I can tell, there really wasn't much new discovered. All of the stuff regarding Carter is well documented. The speculations about what happened to Tut are as well.

Somehow, though, Patterson weaves this decidedly NOT nonfiction tale about Tut, his wife (also his half-sister), his royal scribe and his general; in addition to Tut's mistress and various other characters who I'd like to know how the hell Patterson knew, in a factual way, what they did or didn't do. Based on some drawings on the walls of Tut's tomb?

Patterson lost all credibility in my opinion when he told, in great detail, about Tut and his wife's first sexual encounter. Ok, please, great Patterson, how did you know how many orgasms Tut had?

Give me a freaking break.

At the end of this (blessedly short) book, Patterson smugly announces "Case CLOSED!" I was, like, huh? Did I miss something?

The "best" part of the book was the Carter sections, but, again, his life was well documented; Patterson didn't have to make up stuff about him and call it nonfiction.

I'm not a Patterson fan (obviously), but he should probably keep to pumping out his thousands of books per year about this or that detective, police person,serial killer, whatever, and leave nonfiction to those who understand the meaning of the word.

One final note. He should have labeled this "historical fiction". Then, I wouldn't have been so pissed off.

The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise by Julia Stuart: Really Liked/4 Stars

A charming book about the Beef Eaters who guard, and live in, The Tower of London.

And, yes, the Beef Eaters (and their families) actually DO live there!

I've been to the Tower several times while in London, so, I found this especially interesting. It is FICTIONAL, but, you can see the stories playing out in the way they do. After all, it IS the Tower of London!

Nice side plots as well regarding ladies who work in the lost property office for the Tube (Underground Trains), a priest who writes erotic fiction on the side, and the chaos that ensues when the Queen sends her Royal Menagerie to the Tower to live (and bring in some tourist income!)

The main story itself (a woman leaves her husband of many years because she feels he's not fully experienced the death of their only child and they've grown apart because of it) could take place anywhere, of course. Somehow, it's just more interesting in the Tower of London!

And, I found it fascinating reading about all the places within the Tower Complex that us tourists are not allowed to visit.

Four stars mostly for ingenuity!

Anne Frank Remembered: The Story of the Woman Who Helped to Hide the Frank Family by Miep Gies and Alison Lesley Gold: Totally Awesome/5 Stars

Although maybe not the best writing style I've ever read (and some of this is likely due to translation from Dutch to English), this was an interesting parallel to the events chronicled by Anne in her diary.

In addition to revealing what was going on outside the secret annex during those months of hiding, the book provides background on Miep Gies, her husband, and the others who helped the Frank (and other) families during this awful time.

I struggled with how, exactly, to rate this. Is it the best thing I've ever read? No. Is it as important as Anne's diary? No (although diary readers will be fascinated by some of the "behind the scenes" tidbits provided in this book). But, for Miep's courage and loyalty to her friends (and others), I give it a 5.

Apparently, this is a companion book to a documentary about Miep; which now, of course, I'd like to see.

Noah's Compass by Anne Tyler (CD): Didn't Much Care For/2 Stars

This is the story of Liam, a sixty year old grouch with three daughters, a grandson, an ex wife, an odd ball girlfriend, and a memory problem.

Liam's trying to recall a period of roughly 24 hours and he cannot. It's driving him crazy because he feels he shouldn't have lost this time (he was knocked out by a would be home intruder who didn't steal anything because he didn't have anything worth stealing). The doctors wonder why he wants to remember, his family is tired of hearing him rant about it.

While he tries to remember, he realizes that, although he won't remember that incident, he's remembering other things that he'd long since forgotten.

This is pretty much the story. As for the title, I kept wondering when he was going to meet someone named Noah. As it turned out, the title comes from one quick scene where he is reading a bible story to his grandson.

Anyway, this was definitely not up to Tyler's standards. I'm wondering if her publisher was after he to write something so she threw this together. It does seem thrown together.

I'm sort of sorry this is the last book I'll finish in 2010. I like to end on a high note!

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: November

Shadow Tag by Louise Erdrich: Didn't Much Care For/2 Stars

I liked the concept of this book; a woman discovers that her over bearing and controlling husband has been reading her diary. So, she begins to write a shadow diary; her real one (kept locked in a safe deposit box in a bank) and continues to write in the old one, knowing that her husband is reading it.

Her plan, it seems, is to write lies in order to drive him to divorcing her.

Throw into the mix three somewhat odd children, the fact both the woman and her husband are drunks and Indians, (which seemed terribly stereotypical to me) and quite a few scenes of somewhat violent sex, and you have a book which I pretty much became disgusted with.

Maybe I missed the point?

I kept reading it to get to the end, which, BTW, was not terribly satisfying.

Innocent by Scott Turrow (CD): Solid/Good/3 Stars

20 or so years after the events in "Presumed Innocent", Turow is back with another courtroom drama surrounding Rusty Sabich and arch enemy Tommy Molto. Sabich, now a judge, is accused of murdering his wife of 40-something years.

Sabich's defense attorney from "Presumed Innocent" is back, too, to defend Sabich. There are a few new characters who add spice to the tale (Rusty's hottie son Nat, to name one), and, as can be expected with Turow, lots of twists and turns.

I can't say that I thought this was quite as good as "Presumed Innocent", but, it was definitely worth listening too. I will also freely admit that I got the ending entirely wrong!

I couldn't help but picture Harrison Ford as Sabich (since he played him in the movie version of "Presumed" so wonder if there will be a movie sequel? Alas, the most excellent actor who played Sandy Stern, Raul Julia, has passed from us, so, maybe not.

My Name is Memory by Ann Brashares (CD): Solid/Good/3 Stars

Initially a really neat concept. Daniel has lived since the 500s AD. Every time he dies, he's reborn into another body but yet he remembers everything that has gone before in all of his other lives.

Most importantly, he remembers Sophia, the literal love of all of his lives. She is reborn, too; problem is, she never remembers HIM. There are other "souls" he recognizes throughout his lives; a sister in one life is a wife in another; his mother in one life is his mother again many lives later, etc. Also, his evil brother Joaquin pops up in several lives, always evil, and always somehow attached to Sophia. With the exception of another exceptional soul named Ben, Daniel appears to be the only soul who remembers everything.

The story is told alternatively by Daniel (in his various lives) and the present day Sophia, now named Lucy (a high school then later college student in Virginia).

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this...up until the last disc when it became, IMHO, relatively stupid. I also didn't care a hoot for the ending...left wide open for another book. Maybe this is because Brashares is used to writing several books in a series? She's best known for the YA series "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants".

Anyway, a fun read.

The Last Olympian (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #5) by Rick Riordan: Solid/Good/3 Stars

All in all, this was a fun series to read. This is supposedly the last one, however, it was inferred at the end of the book that there may be another round of books involving demi-Gods from Camp Half Blood.

This particular book was not, perhaps, as interesting as the 4th in the series but it was entertaining and a quick read. Plus, I love Greek Gods and Greek mythology, so, it's all cool with me!

I note the author has written "adult" books; may be worth a look-see.

Finally, the characters in this series, similar to the Harry Potter books, grow up. In the first book, they are 12, in this, they are 16. So, then, does their thoughts, actions, antics, etc., "age" from what a 12 year old would do to what a 16 year old would do. I noticed in this book, more human character were offed than in the prior books. However, after reading "The Hunger Games" trilogy, I have to say, everything in this series is quite tame by comparison!

I'd give the series a sound 3!

Mystic River by Dennis Lehane: Totally Awesome/5 Stars

An absolute power house of a book. The characters will stay with you long after you've read the last page, as will the tragedies and ironies of life this story illustrates.

Probably one of few cases, too, where the movie and the book do each other justice; the movie, in my opinion, was perfectly cast.

Now that I've read the book, I want to go re-watch the movie!

I know, this is not really an actual review of the book itself, but, it's all I want to say.

Wishin' and Hopin' by Wally Lamb (Book Club Selection): Really Liked/4 Stars

This was such a sweet funny book. It made me laugh out loud in certain places, no mean feat, that. For this only, it deserves the 4-star rating I am giving it!

Taking place in the mid to late 50s, it's the tale of Felix Funicello (3rd cousin to THE famous Mouseketeer and Bikini Babe of the 50s, Annette) and his 5th grade class, his family, and what it's like when you start to "grow up". All of this plays out in a short period of time; late November-Christmas, and revolves (mostly) around the preparation for and production of the school's annual Christmas pageant. There is a delightful sidebar segment about Felix's mother attending a bake-off contest hosted by none other than our 40th President (well, quite a bit before he was, of course!)

Although it is a work of fiction, my guess is there is some of the author in the character of Felix; certainly, most of us will recognize some of our own classmates, family and friends in many of the other characters.

Added bonus. It's a short, quick read. Perfect for the busy holiday season; one can read it waiting for cookies to come out of the oven, or while in line at the post office!

The Man of My Dreams by Curtis Sittenfeld (CD): Didn't Much Care For/2 Stars

Ok "slice of life" book about Hannah aged 14 (or so) through late 20s struggling to handle teen angst, oddball relatives, going to a shrink, college, boyfriends (or lack thereof) and an unrequited love.

Nowhere near as good as "American Wife", which I read earlier this year.

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: October

Apparently, I didn't have much to say about October's selections!

Catching Fire (The Hunger Games #2) by Suzanne Collins: Totally Awesome/5 Stars

I've definitely caught this fire.

Mocking Jay (The Hunger Games #3) by Suzanne Collins: Really Liked/4 Stars

I would have given it 4.5 if I could. Loved this series; am looking forward to the movie (whenever it comes out).

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows (CD): Solid/Good/3 Stars

Sweet...interesting...entertaining...and a tad predictable.

BTW, did folks back in post-WWII times do nothing but write letters and notes? Sometimes three or four a day? Must have kept the postmen busy!

I listened to this so perhaps this bothered me more had I read it. I do have a copy; maybe I'll read it again someday.

The Battle of the Labyrinth (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #4) by Rick Riordan: Really Liked/4 Stars

Riordan's 4th in the series was a notch (star) more enjoyable/interesting to me than the first three. I really liked the concept of the Labyrinth and many of the "new" characters who popped up this go-round.

All in all, this has been a real fun series to read!

Angel Time (The Songs of the Seraphim #1) by Anne Rice: Hated It/1 Star

Typical Anne Rice. Limited parts of it were somewhat interesting, most of it was all over the place ramble (how much time can an author dedicate to describing a hotel in Riverside CA, anyway?)

Add to it the fact she wrote this after her "Come to Jesus" phase, well, yawn.

She certainly had an intriguing concept (which is why I stupidly bought it); a modern day hit man is offered a chance at redemption by becoming an angel's assistant. He travels (back) in time to help people in need.

Yeah, except he only goes one place and the story surrounding this job is just lame.

It's denoted as "The Songs of the Seraphim #1". Which means there will be more of them. Run screaming! The main character is not that likable; I can't see him carrying a series like Rice's Lestat (who, to give Rice credit, is one of the best fictional characters ever created, in my opinion).

The only good thing about this book was it was short.

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: September

...and I trudge onward with this series...

The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson: Really Good/4 Stars

So far I am finding Larsson's series incredibly fun to read. Too bad he died as, for, as well as these initial books are written, he probably would have continued into the mouth dropping realm (well, too bad he died for many more important reasons than my enjoyment, of course!)

As it is, there's not much I can say that others haven't already written. If you like fast-paced crime novels with intriguing characters, join the club and read these books.

Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman (CD): Solid/Good/3 Stars:

A really sweet book, maybe a bit too sweet, though, IMHO.

CeeCee Honeycutt is a 12 year old girl who hasn't had much of a childhood so far. Her mother, an ex-Southern Belle and beauty pageant queen, is seriously nutso. Her father, some sort of traveling salesman, is never around. No one at school likes CeeCee, mostly because her mother is the laughing stock of their small Ohio town. So, CeeCee reads A LOT and takes some refuge visiting the kind old lady who lives next door.

CeeCee wants her mom to be "saved"; and prays to God (using her mother's pearls as a rosary) to do so. And, she throws in a small prayer for herself, too.

The majority of the book centers around the answer to CeeCee's prayers.

Her mother dies unexpectedly and CeeCee is sent to live with her somewhat eccentric great-Aunt Tootie in Savannah, GA. Once in Savannah, CeeCee becomes acquainted with a group of kind but strong-willed Southern women, white and black, who help her begin a new life where things really aren't so bad after all.

This was a nice enough book; easy to listen to, but, it wrapped up just a bit too compactly; real life just can't be this way! Hey, I've been in Savannah; and, the book is just like the beautiful sections of the lovely historic district; colorful and interesting but at times, just a bit too much.

Some might say, too; yet another book about a white girl and her black mammy (there is a strong African American character in the book who teaches CeeCee a thing or two).

In any case, it was enjoyable enough, as I said. Also, I think it could very well be read by young women (tweens); it's sweetness does almost lend itself more to that genre.

Sharpe's Tiger by Bernard Cornwell: Solid/Good/3 Stars

This is the first of MANY in the Sharpe series. I really enjoyed Cornwell's Saxon Series so thought I'd try Sharpe. Although I'm not as interested in the historical timeline in the Sharpe series (British/India/Napoleon early 1800s) and the action is pretty damn gory at times, it was an easy enough read and I'll look forward to filling in my dance card with the rest of the series over the next year or so.

And then, there is always the 100 hour TV series, too!

Beatrice and Virgil by Yann Martel (CD): Hated It/1 Star

I'm one of those folks who absolutely LOVED Martel's first novel, "The Life of Pi". I'll admit, it was different and perhaps one of the reasons I so enjoyed it was that I was listening to it on a long road trip from NY to CA (just back from a jaunt to Italy) with my buddies (cats) Nigel and Clyde in tow; thinking about the major changes I was in the process of making in my life. "Pi" provoked even more thoughts about endings and new beginnings and, in my opinion, had one of the best lines ever about the sorrow of losing a friend.

Thus, I had HIGH hopes for this new book of Martel's. I was terribly excited when I first saw it had been released and was just about ready to buy it when I noticed it in the audio book section of the local library. So much the better, considering how much I loved listening to "Pi" (as an aside, the narrator was quite good).

After I finished listening to it, I was initially somewhat unsure how I felt about it. I did something I hardly EVER do after reading a book (and before I "review" it), I Googled it, and, based on the number of hits (and the variety of what was contained), I'd say many other people felt the same way.

This book was nothing what I expected it to be. In fact, most of it made zero sense to me as I was reading it, and, even after everything somewhat falls in place towards the end, I still didn't think it made much sense.

Henry (an author) and his wife (of which we know very little except her name and she eventually becomes pregnant) move from Canada after Henry becomes disillusioned with his writing. They travel for awhile and then settle in an unidentified major metropolitan city (likely NYC; why it remained unidentified is just one of the odd quirks about the story that didn't make sense and didn't matter).

Henry receives in the mail a package containing a short story (about a young man killing animals but eventually becoming a Saint), a scene from

what appears to be a play, and a note asking for his help.

Henry eventually goes to the address on the return label and discovers that it is a taxidermy shop.

He meets the taxidermist, also named Henry but he's always referred to as "The Taxidermist" and finds him to be a highly unlikeable character. Still, Henry gets sucked into this play the The Taxidermist is writing and that he supposedly needs help with.

The play is extremely odd. It's about Beatrice (a donkey) and Virgil (a howler monkey) talking. That's pretty much it. Talking. They are trapped on a stripped shirt (I was thinking, like decals or something...I never quite got the whole shirt thing). They are scared, hungry and have obviously been through some terrible awful ordeal that the refer to as "The Horrors".

Henry tries to understand what, exactly, The Taxidermist is trying to convey with this play but The Taxidermist is fairly taciturn about it all.

This goes on for the majority of the book. The Taxidermist reading to Henry various scenes from the play (never in order; driving Henry nuts because he just wants to get his hands on the thing and read it from beginning to end). He asks Henry for help here or there; "help me describe Beatrice", for example. Or, "help me describe what Virgil's howl sounds like".

In the end, Henry finally figures out that The Taxidermist is really an awful person who is writing this play as an allegory to the Holocaust.

The End.

Ok, frankly, I pretty much hated this book but have to allow that there were a few sections that were ok; I gave it a 1 but if I could, it'd be a 1.5.

Other than these few parts, though, I don't think it held together well, there was a lot of disjoint, some things were never explained, some explained overly much. There were some parts that were just horribly disturbing and to what end?

When I finished "Pi" I felt hopeful. When I finished this, I felt sick.

Someone on Google said, "Well, if anything, it'll provide the opportunity for a good discussion".

Maybe, but, really, I don't want to think about it any longer. I'm so glad I didn't waste my money buying it, because, I do believe after reading it, I would have thrown it away.

The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins (BCS): Totally Awesome/5 Stars

All of the acclaim this book has received is well deserved.

Whether you are a parent of a young adult who has avidly read through this series or whether you just enjoy a fascinating (if extremely disturbing) story expertly told, you should definitely read "The Hunger Games". I can almost guarantee you, if you read it, you'll read the following two in the series (probably in quick succession!)

I personally love reading stories that can be peeled away, layer by intriguing layer, to reveal something even more amazing underneath. Moreover, tales that, after you discuss them with someone else, you discover even more that you didn't on your own, causing you to want to go back and re-read it all over again.

The general concept: It's the future. It's somewhere in what used to be the United States. The country is now organized in Districts (originally 13...which brought to my mind the thirteen original US colonies). Each district is known for some sort of work or trade; e.g., agriculture, electronics, coal mining. In punishment for a prior rebellion, the powerful Capital requires each of the remaining 12 Districts to send two children (a boy and a girl)from their district to compete in the annual Hunger Games. These children are now known as "Tributes".

Think a cross between "Survivor" and "American Idol" (with all the pre-show hype given the kids as they parade around the capital and mentors (prior game winners) assigned to assist them with their strategies) EXCEPT these games are real and deadly. Only one Tribute can win, which means all the others must die. The games take place in an elaborate yet contained arena (devised and designed by game keepers) and watched by the entire country on T.V. Whenever a Tribute is killed, a loud "boom" sounds throughout the arena so the other Tributes know someone has been offed. A hovercraft immediately comes to get the body. Each night at dusk, as the country's anthem is played, images of whomever died that day are shown in the sky so that the remaining tributes know who is left there that they must kill.

Creeping you out yet? It should!

The protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to go as a Tribute in place of her much younger little sister, is one of the strongest female characters I've ever read. She's all of 16, and let me tell you, she could whomp all over that Bella Swan from the "Twilight" series (and likely the vamp and dog, too!) The interplay between her and her fellow district Tribute, Peeta, is not your typical girl meets boy love story! It's, as the 12 year old daughter of one of my fellow book club members said (who is NOT interested in love stories yet) "Ok because it's STRATEGIC".

I could go on and on but suffice it to say, this book was one of the best I've read in a long, long time. It felt weird, really, to read something that was so good and yet so terribly disturbing, but, there you have it.

Candyfreak: A Journey Through the Chocolate Underbelly of America by Steve Almond (BCS): Solid/Good/3 stars

As befitting the month, this was my book club's selection for October. I have to say, I think our discussion was one of the best times I've had with this group! My SIL hosted the meeting (and led the discussion). Bless her, she went out and bought as much of the candy written about in the book (and then some) that she could find for us to share. Believe me, a group of women on a collective sugar high are even more raunchy than when drinking a lot of wine (although we had some of that, too).

So, the book. Steve Almond (appropriate name) is a self-acclaimed freak when it comes to candy. His book pretty much details his life-long love of candy (and obsession with it). Being that he is just a few years younger than yours truly, most of the candy (and accompanying candy rages) he writes about are ones I am oh so familiar with.

Including: Making retainers out of cherry Jolly Rancher candy sticks (I don't think they make the sticks any longer); the huge candy display in Sears, the whole Bubble Yum craze (and ensuing urban legends about spider eggs found therein AND that whole Rod Stewart rumor...OMG...I laughed so hard when I read that part...my DH thought I'd cracked my gourd); Zotz, the disgusting taste of purple Neccos (clove; although we decided last night that it may be an adult taste) and pop rocks. BTW, pop rocks were a big hit last night at the meeting.

In addition to his memoir about his personal candy history, Almond visits several candy factories (none of the biggies but most produced candy you'd recognize (assuming you're old enough)) to talk to the owners, operators and those who had the enviable positions of "chocolate engineers".

Almond has a quick, witty (if self-depreciating) style and the book is a fast read (although had it been much longer than its 250 pages, we'd all be fat).

Only negative, really, was a few places where he goes off on a rant on George W. Bush (didn't fit at all within the "story") and his fear that he was dying of cancer of a certain appendage (just didn't seem appropriate).

A fun read; made me nostalgic for those simpler days when candy figured prominently in my universe.

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: August

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein: Totally Awesome/5 Stars

I almost did not read this book because I just have this "thing" about animals dying. Ever since I read "Sounder" as a child, I can't barely get through anything where an animal, in however way, dies. Not that this is the focus of this book by any stretch, but, you got to know it's coming at some point.

However, I'm really glad I read it and would encourage anyone who has ever had a dog (or a cat, for that matter) that has been with them for ages and ages and through thick and thin and who you have wondered what in the heck they must be thinking about you, to read it as well.

It can be as light or as deep as you like it to be. It's definitely a quick read/page turner. The narrative (from Enzo the dog's perspective) manages to be both amusing and sage at the same time; just what you might imagine an old dog who has seen a lot would have to say if he had a tongue that allowed him to form words and sentences.

Finally, for those of us who I have lost pets and contemplated where they've "gone"; you'll likely love the ending.

If you a) hate animals b) have no sense of sentimentality c) and are in general a Scrooge, then, don't read this book :-)

It'll break your heart, but, in a good way.

Maybe I can now muster up the guts to read "Marley and Me"!

The Titan's Curse (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #3) by Rick Riordan: Solid/Good/3 Stars

I continue to enjoy this series. I think my book club friend is right; this is the best one so far with the introduction of a few more Gods, more challenges for our intrepid hero and his pals, and a bit more darkness.

I have to say, though; the format is seriously reminding me of the Harry Potter books (each book = a different year; each book a bit more complex/dark).

No matter. They are definitely fun reads! And, judging by the tattered conditions of the books (borrowed from the library), much read!

The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent (CD): Solid/Good/3 Stars

I first visited Salem MA as a small girl with my step-mom. I clearly remember going to the Salem Witch Museum (and buying a pack of "fortune teller's" cards!)

Over the course of my life, I've read quite a bit about the trials and subsequent hanging of "witches"; obviously, the real evil was how completely sane and adult persons allowed themselves to be swept up into a witch hunt by a slew of hysterical (and conniving) teenage girls. Surely, someone should have stopped and thought to themselves, "Wait a second here..." Well, of course some did, and they ended up dead.

So, I was drawn to this particular book; a somewhat fictionalized accounting of a family living on the outskirts of Salem yet still finding themselves drawn into this ugly drama.

The story is narrated by Sarah Carrier, the daughter of one Martha Carrier, who was, indeed, accused of being a witch. At the end of her own life, Sarah is relaying the sorry tale to a much-loved granddaughter so that the truth won't be lost.

95% of the book takes place in 1691-1692 and centers around Sarah's family dynamics, her love-hate relationship with her mother, and her dawning realization that it isn't her mother who is the "bad guy" (How many of us have been there? Luckily, not many of us had our mother's hanged as a witch).

A Google search shows that Martha Carrier was indeed a real person who was accused, tried, sentenced and hanged as a witch on August 19th 1692. Apparently, Kent is a descendant of Martha Carrier, which is why she chose to write the book. Kent does well enough weaving in the other characters of the day into the story and describing the mouth gaping events that took place in Salem and surrounding towns. I think I would have preferred, however, a bit more about Martha herself and a little less about Sarah; especially as one Google return said something like "Martha Carrier: A Puritan Feminist?" and Cotton Mather referred to her as "The Queen of Hell" (sounds like a good title of a book to me!)

Still, entertaining and interesting enough; especially as a "listen to". And now, I'm curious enough about Martha Carrier to go dig up more on her and maybe, too, re-read Miller's classic "The Crucible".

The Help by Kathryn Stockett (Book Club Selection): Totally Awesome/5 Stars

Absolutely loved this book. Don't really care what all the "nay sayers" out there have to report on it. It's fantastic. And, considering it's Stockett's first novel, even more so.

Three wonderfully written main characters, a bevy of well rounded secondary characters, and an age old tale of doing what is right, regardless of the potential cost to oneself, means one quick paced read.

That's all!

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout (CD): Solid/Good/3 Stars

I'm not really a short story type of person but this one was ok, probably because all of the stories were connected by the title character.

Olive is a seventy-something crotchety dame living in Maine with her usually low key husband Henry. She's one of those "characters"; she'd be a lot of fun to chat with but boy, would she be draining if you had to deal with her all of the time.

Each story either is about Olive or her husband or her somewhat estranged son or is about someone else living in their town of Crosby and Olive and/or Henry makes a cameo appearance in their story.

As with any collection of stories, some of them are definitely better than others, but, frankly, there were a few (and overall, there were A LOT of stories) that were sorta lame.

I listened to this whilst driving around town, working out or futzing in the kitchen. The narrator was quite good; even managed to do an excellent rendition of what a person sounds like on speaker phone.

I may be tempted to read something else by Strout now, which is sometimes what picking up something completely out of your interest zone is all about.

Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel: Solid/Good/3 Stars

I had a love-hate relationship with this book which, in the end, turned into a resounding "Like".

I think the majority of my issue with the book, a historical fiction accounting of (most of) Thomas Cromwell's life, was simply the style in which it was written. It took me 3/4 of the book to finally "get" Mantel's voice. As she is a renowned author in her native England, I figured she had to be worth plugging on with, and, she was.

That aside, I thought it brilliant how, in Mantel's hands, all of the characters from this period of Henry VIII's reign who are usually portrayed as sympathetic to the reader were now the villains; and, vice versa. Case in point Cromwell himself, who, if you believe everything you've probably read (or seen) where he makes an appearance, he was a truly evil, greedy, person who hated Thomas More (to some a saint) with a passion and did whatever he could to save his own grubby neck (which ultimately ended up parted with his head, anyway, but, that was several of Henry's wives past Anne Boleyn!) Even the ever creepy Duke of Norfolk (Anne's uncle) is viewed somewhat sympathetically.

Of course, Henry VIII comes across the same because only a dumb-dumb doesn't get that Henry VIII was, although at times a brilliant monarch, mostly an incredibly insecure man, a temperamental leader, self-centered, ego-centric and, as many of his loved ones found out at their expense, a fair-weathered friend.

I loved the fact that this tale centers smack on Cromwell; I'm not sure how much may have been true (other than what is in the record) and how much was made up, but, Cromwell was certainly a fascinating figure who played a fairly significant role in English history/the Tudor reign.

"Wolf Hall" (BTW, loved how the title finally made its way into the story at the very end) terminates while Anne still has a year or so more to live and Cromwell has several. Obviously, Mantel could continue her tale of Cromwell, and, yes, (my husband will be surprised to read this since he heard me griping abut Mantel's style for the month plus it took me to get through the book) but, I do believe I may actually read it!

A final note. I saw somewhere that another reader of this book said Cromwell's story would make a great miniseries. I agree; just, pray God, don't use that smarmy actor who played him in "The Tudors"!

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: July

Burnt Offerings by Laurell K. Hamilton: Solid/Good/3 Stars

Mind candy, plain and simple. This is #7 out of, I don't know, 20? Whenever I want to read something but don't really want to think overly much, I return to Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, and her bevy of monstrous friends and lovers.

Is it my imagination, or, are these books getting steamier as time goes by? Pure silliness but perfect for pool-side reading.

A few new characters introduced in this one that will, apparently, be hanging around.

As I've said before in my reviews of this series, this is Twilight for adults. And, Hamilton had the market before what's-her-name came around. Anita's got it all over Bella, folks.

As for vamps vs. wolfs...you'll just have to decide for yourselves :-)

The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians #2) by Rick Riordan: Solid/Good/3 Stars

Although not as captivating as the first book in the series (and I also noticed several errors; Riordan should ask his editor to do a better job!), this was a perfectly enjoyable follow up to "Lightening Thief".

It closed up with a cliff hanger, so, I immediately made my RSVP for the next book at the local library!

As an important aside, I'm pleased that there is such an interesting series out there for young readers, especially one that is both entertaining and instructive about the Greeks. Maybe these books will lead said readers to the source (Greek Mythology).

Captain Alatriste (Adventures of Captain Alatriste #1) by Arturo Perez-Reverte: Solid/Good/3 Stars

My Father-In-Law recommended this to me last Spring. It's a fun read with not too much lost in the translation from Spanish to English (although I suppose I wouldn't know if anything was lost, would I?)

It sort of reminded me of a more hip Dumas tale. The year is 1622. Captain Alatriste is a down on his luck ex soldier now turned Sword for Hire in Madrid. Along with a mysterious and sinister Italian, Alatriste is contracted by two masked men to ambush two English men on a dark back road. Complications ensue when one of the masked men directs that the men not be killed, yet, when he leaves the room, the other, along with a creepy clergy man, tell the Italian and Alatriste to kill the English men.

The Italian and Alatriste ambush the Englishmen, but disagree on which instructions to follow.

And, the Englishmen are not your ordinary tourists tramping around Spain...

and so on...

The story is told mainly from the perspective of Captain Alatriste's young page/charge/servant; the son of one of Alatriste's soldier friends who was killed in battle.

Alatriste has a band of friends and followers; ex soldiers, Constables, poets, as well as the love of an ex whore. There is a lot of both sword and word play going on between them and around them, and yet, Alatriste remains somewhat detached from everything but his honor and the young boy; another enigmatic hero.

This is the first in several in a series "starring" Alatriste. And, the hunky actor Viggo Mortensen recently played Alatriste in a movie (that must have gone directly to DVD since I never saw it in the paper).

Definitely worth a look-see if you're wanting something quick paced and quick witted.

Proud Shoes by Pauli Murray (Book Club Selection): Really Good/4 Stars

Many of us in book club pondered why this book is not on the "must read" list for junior high-high school-college. It should be, especially here in the South and in particular in Durham.

Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray crafted a phenomenal balance between telling the story of her maternal grandparents (and their parents) and her own upbringing in rural Durham NC against the backdrop of history of those times (pre Civil War, Civil War, etc.); doing so in a very matter of fact, undramatic (but entirely riveting) fashion.

There is a lot of powerful punch packed into this relatively short book and definitely one where you'll glean more and more each time you read it.

Dr. Murry herself was a fascinating woman; an activist for race well before the first well known sit ins but also a founding member of NOW. She once was quoted as saying (paraphrasing here) that, in her opinion, being a woman was far more difficult than being African American.

Well worth reading.

Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger (CD): Didn't Much Care For/2 Stars

Whereas Niffenegger's debut novel, "The Time Traveler's Wife" is one of my very favorite books of all time, unfortunately, her much anticipated follow up is going into the 2 star pile. I may even have given it 1 star except it kept me somewhat occupied whilst driving about town or chopping up vegetables for dinner.

Although the scenarios in both books are utterly implausible, the author managed to pull it off with "Wife; not so with this one.

I don't really even care enough to review the book/talk about what it was about, especially as so much of it was boringly predictable and trite. I didn't gel with any of the characters. The ones I found the most interesting were the minor/on the fringe ones.

REALLY disappointed.

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: June

Man, I'm WAY behind here! We've just selected the books we'll read in book club for this year and I'm not done reviewing LAST year's.

Chang and Eng by Darin Strauss (Book Club Selection): Didn't Much Care For/2 Stars

Since I was the one who suggested this book for my book club, I REALLY wanted to like it. Also, ever since I was a child, I have had an odd fascination with "freaks". Yes, I was drawn to the freak shows at state fairs (never did see anything overly freaky, or legitimately freaky, anyway). Finally, my step mom's book club read this and, according to her, it generated a goodly degree of interest, debate and discussion.

I must say, I was disappointed in how Strauss tackled this fictionalized account of the twins. It fell flat. No one in the book was likable in the least, including Eng, the twin whom Strauss picked to narrate the story because he felt Eng "might offer a more interesting perspective of their twinship". Well, he didn't. Frankly, Strauss would have been better off letting Chang take the helm. He was at least slightly more likable than Eng (even if it was only because I felt sorry for him).

In our discussion, we decided that, instead of (needlessly) going back and forth between the twins earlier life and the "current day" in North Carolina, Strauss should have alternated the telling of the story between Chang and Eng.

Still, with Strauss's fairly piss poor writing, choice of direction and skimpy character development, it probably wouldn't have mattered overly much WHO narrated the story.

I give the book a 2, mostly because of Strauss. Ok, all because of Strauss. I still would give Chang and Eng themselves a much higher rating. I'm going to continue to give them the benefit of the doubt for having been decent people!

In researching a bit about the book for the meeting, I discovered that Gary Oldman is working with Strauss to make a film based on the book. This could either be really interesting good/or a complete flop. Also, Mark Twain wrote a small, extremely amusing tongue in cheek piece on the twins back in the late 1800s. And, someone in Durham made a documentary about Chang and Eng (we watched parts of it in book club); some of it was informative, a lot of it was just plain weird.

In any event, the book DID fulfill one of my wishes. It generated quite a bit of discussion, including speculation on who they'll get to portray the twins in Oldman's movie!

Embers by Sandor Marai: Solid/Good/3 Stars

Beautifully written (and, I surmise, translated). But, oh so boring. I know, that is likely an oxy moron.

Two old friends, who haven't seen one another for 41 years, sit in an old house in the forest one evening eating dinner and talking.

Yep, that's the whole story.

Seriously, the book delves into topics of friendship, love, betrayal, and the incessant need for seeking out the truth.

Perhaps I would have found it more intriguing had it not been so bloody hot when I was reading. My mind wants fluff.

I'm holding on to the book and will read it again (it is a short 213 pages) when it is cold and snowy out; I think I will appreciate it more under those circumstances.

So, in due fairness, I am giving it a 3 for now; said rating my go up (or down) after I re-read it!

Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane (CD): Totally Awesome/5 Stars

US Marshal Teddy Daniels and his (recently assigned) partner Chuck Aule are sent to Shutter Island (near Boston) which houses a prison/hospital for the more than criminally insane. The purpose of their visit is to investigate the mysterious disappearance of one of the more seriously deranged female patients; a disappearance that seems entirely implausible given how closely she was supposedly guarded.

As Teddy and Chuck delve into the case, a hurricane hits the island causing them to be, in essence, shut off from the mainland. As the days pass, it becomes quite apparent to Teddy that things are not as they seem, and, perhaps, there is something very sinister being conducted on the patients on Shutter Island. As he tries to piece together the missing prisoner case, he is hampered by uncooperative staff and doctors, a barrage of migraines, bad dreams, and relentless memories of his beloved dead wife. Yet Teddy also harbors an ulterior motive for being assigned to the case; he suspects that the man who set the fire that killed his wife in their apartment is now a patient/prisoner on the island.

Then, the missing patient shows up, his partner goes missing, and the story becomes totally enthralling; complete with several mind-blowing plot twists and turns.

I listened to this on CD and found myself driving around longer than I needed to so I could keep listening! I know some of the psychological aspects of the book are likely implausible, but, still, I found this so interesting, entertaining and surprising that I might even go back and read it again, especially since now I know the ending (think "Sixth Sense") and will have fun looking for the clues throughout the book that can only be appreciated in retrospect.

This is the first Lehane novel I've read. I have seen the movie adaptations of both "Mystic River" and "Gone, Baby, Gone" and now am pumped to see "Shutter Island". I'll also likely read all of Lehane's novels!

PS

We rented "Shutter Island" and, although not quite as good as the book, it was certainly good enough.

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: May

May was a heavy hitter month; mostly because The B's were floating around on a cruise ship for 9 delightful days so I got a lot of reading in! Thankfully, most of them were 3 Stars or better, too!

Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri (CD): Really Good/4 Stars

I've never much been one for short stories, but, since I really liked Lahiri's "The Namesake" (a novel), I thought I'd give her short stories a whirl.

"Unaccustomed Earth" has eight short stories; all of them containing several themes which were also central to "The Namesake"; including the gulf that separates expatriate Bengali parents from their American-raised children.

All of the stories were fairly engaging although there was one that I didn't care for as much as the others (interestingly enough, it was the one story told from the perspective of a Caucasian male). What I found really fascinating was how, as I listened to each story, I began to see how an author can use the writing of short stories to flush out different aspects of what may eventually become a novel.

I find Lahiri's style refreshing. I'm not so sure why I am so interested in the Indian-American culture, but, I find myself wanting to read/listen to the Lahiri's debut collection of short stories, "Interpreter of Maladies". I am hoping she'll be writing another novel at some point, too.

The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson and The Olympians #1): Solid/Good 3 Stars

What a fun read! I have always been interested in Greek mythology (heck, I named several of my cats after Greek Gods) so when a fellow book club member mentioned she'd been reading this series and how much she enjoyed it, I did something I hardly ever do, and that's reserve a copy from my local library.

I could tell when I picked up the copy how often it had been read; falling apart, torn, pages dog-eared, cover a mess. Considering this book (and the series) was written for, oh, say, middle school aged kids, the fact the book had obviously been well read is a testament to its allure.

In summary, Percy Jackson, 12, lives with his mom and step-father in NYC (although he's more often than not off at one boarding school after another; always getting tossed out on his ear for "bad" behavior).

At his current school, it becomes apparent to him that things are not right when his detested math teacher turns into a harpy and his best friend is revealed to be a satyr.

Thus begins Percy's adventure with the Gods; which revolves around the age old bickering between three of the most prominent and powerful; Zeus, Poseidon and Hades. Along the way, Percy discovers the identify of his here to now absent father, makes friends with other "Godlings", and sets out on a quest to hopefully save the world from the wrath of Zeus.

This is number one in the series; I'll look forward to reading number two!

And, yes, it may be a bit of a "rip off" of the Harry Potter theme (quite a few plot similarities) BUT it's still well worth reading, especially if you liked the Harry Potter series.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson: Really Good/4 Stars

This book/series came highly recommended by many of my book club friends and others. I came across a nice, used copy at the library sale so snatched it up.

It definitely did not disappoint! The main characters are intriguing and well developed; the plot/story is really, really interesting with some great twists here and there.

Summary: A down on his luck writer/investigative reporter (Blomkvist) is hired by a somewhat eccentric but extremely wealthy old business baron to simultaneously a) write a history of his equally eccentric family and b) look into the mysterious (unsolved) case of the disappearance of his favorite niece some 40 or so years prior. Blomkvist realizes soon enough that he is in need of some super duper research assistance and so becomes partners with the fascinating character of Lisbeth Salander, a much younger somewhat emotionally disturbed woman whose punk-ish appearance belies her extreme intelligence. Together, they discover quite a lot, both about the case at hand and themselves.

Some said, and I agree, that the book was initially a bit slow going; I think some of this was due to trying to become accustom to the Swedish names, terms, slightly different style of writing (perhaps due to translation). But, after 75 pages or so, I was hooked.

I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the 2nd and (alas, final since the author passed away before his books were even published; tragic!) book in the Millennium series.

I'm also planning on watching the movie (Swedish) version of the book when it becomes available in the US.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford (Book Club Selection: Totally Awesome/5 Stars

Maybe it was because I was on vacation, but, I absolutely fell in love with this book.

After our book club discussion, I'll cede that, although the core of the story; the interment of the Japanese in America, (even those who were 2nd or 3rd generation and were more "American" than Japanese), the troubled (and for good reason) relations between Chinese and Japanese and the hope, joy and honor of young love in the midst of it was perfect, some of the other aspects of the story/certain character development/editing were a bit frayed at the edges.

However, I still feel it was beautifully written and it will retain one of my coveted five stars because, after all, books are like wine, if you like it, it's good!

Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks: Really Good/4 Stars

Brooks' first novel did not disappoint!

Year of Wonders is a fictionalized account of a true historical event; a village near London is infected with the plague. The resident Rector convinces the villagers to quarantine themselves in order to keep the plague from further spreading throughout the country.

The story is told by Anna, maid to the Rector and his wife. Through Anna, we learn the likely cause of the plague's infestation in the village and we see, through her eyes, the good and bad that can manifest in people when tragedy strikes.

This was thoroughly readable; in fact, I read it in about one and one half days (of course, I was on vacation, but, still).

I thought about giving it 5 stars but, in the end, realized it was on par with the other two of Brooks' novels I've read, "People of the Book" and "March".

All of her books seem to be prime for movie versions, IMHO!

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls: Totally Awesome/5 Stars

Once upon a time, I knew a family who lived somewhat in the vein of the Walls family; maybe not quite as mouth dropping in amazement and astonishment and OMG, but, close.

Because of this, I probably was not as shocked by what I read in the author's memoir; an accounting of the bizarre, hardscrabble and out and out (seemingly) unbelievable childhood she and her brother and sisters experienced.

I gave this a 5-star rating mostly because of the thoroughly wonderful and entertaining (if that is really an appropriate word to use given the circumstances) way in which she relayed the tale and her descriptions of the people in her life (which somehow managed to be both loving and cynical at the same time).

In the end, her memoir is an honest examination of someone who grew up under extremely unusual circumstances with many emotionally disturbed/mentally ill (and some deranged) people around her and a testament to the strength of (certain) family bonds. Seriously, it is amazing how "well" she and at least two of her siblings appear to have turned out!

Mrs. B

Mrs. B's 2010 Book Reviews: April

Plain Jane: A Novel of Jane Seymour by Laurien Gardner: Didn't Much Care For/2 Stars

I've read quite a few books about The Tudors and, although I'm not an expert per se, I have learned a lot about them. The majority of these books have been non-fiction but I do take a romp through the historical fiction from time to time. And, lately it seems there has been a run to jump onto The Tudor band wagon. Case in point this relatively new historical fiction series by Laurien Gardner with each book in the series dedicated to one of Henry VIII's six wives.

"Plain Jane" is about his 3rd wife, Jane Seymour. I lost count of how many times Jane (or others) referred to herself as "plain" (I suppose the author wanted to reinforce the title of her book) and found it a bit rather like cheating when I read in the author's afterward that her sources for the book had been better written non-fiction books about The Tudors (all of which I'd read). Maybe I was disappointed that I hadn't thought about writing such a series; certainly, I have enough Tudor trivia floating around in my head!

Anyway, the bottom line is; I picked this book up in a used book store while in FL. It was readable enough but, frankly, a bit silly. Not QUITE a bodice buster; more like a Barbara Cartland romance, but, definitely written for those who are looking for a romantic tale.

I guess I need to stop reading these fictionalized accounts because, in the end, they just get on my nerves!

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See: Really Good/4 Stars

This was a fantastic read. In addition to (always interesting to me) descriptions of life for all classes of Chinese women back when foot binding was still practiced (really not all that long ago), "Snow Flower" was, in essence, about friendship. Any woman who has ever had a best friend who felt like she was closer to you than anyone else in your life will appreciate this tale of life-long friendship and what can happen if you, at any point in time, ever allow your heart to harden.

Other books I've read that fall into the genre of "Chinese women who've lived torturous but extremely interesting lives" are: The Binding Chair by Katherine Harrison, Empress Orchid by Anchee Min (and there was a sequel which I have not read) and any tale by Amy Tan, but, in particular, The Joy Luck Club.

The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid: A Memoir by Bill Bryson (CD): Really Good/4 Stars

I found this absolutely hysterical. Although Bryson is 13 years older than me, his memoir about growing up in the 50s and 60s in the midwest brought back so many similar childhood memories! This is a must read (or listen to, which is what I did); a quick, fun romp through the past for all Baby Boomers.

My guess is, you'll recognize at least one of the characters he describes from your own childhood; not to mention, his descriptions of family get-togethers, food, school, movie theaters, playing outside all day, America's fascination with appliances, cars, TV and even The Happiest Place on Earth!

I read Bryson's "A Walk in the Woods" for book club in 2009; it was interesting enough; his style is quirky, but, this one was much more amusing!

The Soloist by Steve Lopez (CD): Sold/Good 3 Stars

This is a realistic rendering of caring for a person who has a severe mental illness. As this is a true story, I have to hand it to Steve Lopez for taking something that started out as merely a job to the point where he came to sincerely care about a perfect stranger, and, a perfect stranger with more than the usual "baggage".

As many of us who love someone with a mental illness already know, Lopez learned that there is a lot of "one step forward, three steps back" and that he couldn't, in the end, "cure" Nathaniel; only be a friend who cheered him on when he could and left him alone when he had to.

I would have given this a "4" except for two things. One: I thought there was a bit of "over do" with the "steam of consciousness" scenes (Nathaniel's jumbled "speeches"); meaning, a few illustrations of this was sufficient to get it. Secondly, I didn't quite care for the way Lopez began to refer to Nathaniel as "Mr. Ayers". I "got" why; it just seemed false. I know, I know, this actually happened so this is why it was written; I guess it just rubbed me the wrong way.

I'd definitely recommend this, however. Now, time to see the movie!

The Burning Land by Bernard Cornwell: Solid/Good 3 Stars

Book five of The Saxon Stories finds our hero Uhtred alive and well while battling Danes and entering into at least two new romances. Whew, busy guy!

Seriously, these are fun books. I have a great time reading them (although some are a bit better than others). Cornwell, probably best known for his Sharpe's series of books (made into a PBS TV show), writes in a lively, wry style with non-stop action and a smattering of history thrown in for good measure (these books focus on Alfred The Great of England; the king who united the various parts of England into one kingdom).

I keep waiting for a PBS TV show based on these books. I wonder who'd play Uhtred?

If you're looking for something relatively light but not complete drivel, I'd definitely recommend these books.

Mrs. B