I am so long overdue with my review of this book for Goodreads. I read this years ago, and was so mesmerized by this memoir at the time ofCatching Up…
I am so long overdue with my review of this book for Goodreads. I read this years ago, and was so mesmerized by this memoir at the time of my first reading it, that I vowed to read whatever I could of this amazing author. I have, and continue to be spellbound by his writing. You can probably find all of my reviews already posted on Goodreads.
I have finally had a chance to re-visit this one, so that I could bring my review to Goodreads.
What is so stunning about this story are the two voices we read. And they both offer a complex and thoroughly heart-moving narrative.
We hear James – the musician, the composer, the writer, the brother, the son.
And we hear his mother, Rachel, the daughter of a failed Orthodox Jewish Rabbi in an anti-Semitic and violently racist small Southern town. She shares her heart-wrenching story of flight to the Jewish Bronx and to the Harlem of the 1940’s and then in to a marriage with a black minister.
These voices give us a story that is connected and lively and provides a great understanding of the unique, incisive and rich history that encompasses this author.
There is a beautiful skill in the way he alternates chapters relating his life story and coming to terms with his mixed ethnic and religious heritage. It is also obvious how his mother instilled the value and respect of education and faith within him and his siblings. And because of that, we can see how well all have done in their lives.
He shows us his siblings’ successes, along with his own journalistic ventures as a staff writer with various newspapers.
This is a beautiful story, full of heart and soul and comfort and sadness and depth. Mostly love. It is clear that McBride grew up with solid roots, and Rachel was truly a gift, and a sad loss for the family when she passed in 2010. ...more
Several years ago, a few of my gal pals decided to read and discuss this book since we truly admired Pitts as a columnist and were excitedCatching up…
Several years ago, a few of my gal pals decided to read and discuss this book since we truly admired Pitts as a columnist and were excited for him to win the Pulitzer. We were hopeful we would like this book, as well. (And yes, a perfect book discussion selection!)
I have since had the opportunity to re-visit it so I could bring my review to Goodreads.
This is the story of Freeman, which seems an appropriate name for Sam, an ex-slave in post-Civil War America. Sam is a self-educated employee of the Philadelphia Free Library, who was a Union Soldier. He had been walking through a war-torn land of chaos and lawlessness attempting to find his long-lost wife. His wife was sold into slavery years earlier.
It may feel like the North has won the war, but the worst horrors of slavery don’t look like they have ended.
This book will give readers American history we didn’t get in school, the Civil War, African American history up close, along with an engrossing read.
As readers we witness an epic storytelling experience with characters that feel real and are well-developed and will stay with us long after we turn the last page.
The story is so compelling and passionate that readers will feel as if we are present to the realities of the time. Unsettling in its telling, but a relevant and realistic glimpse at an important time in history.
There is so much to appreciate about Pitt’s ambitions in this story. A well-deserved win....more
I was thrilled when I saw this one so prominently displayed in the children’s section of my local library.
It is clear from the beginning that this isI was thrilled when I saw this one so prominently displayed in the children’s section of my local library.
It is clear from the beginning that this is a teaching book. One that hopes to change the landscape of our thinking about racism. Of how we can teach children to think and have explicit conversations about race and equity.
Through beautiful, colorful illustrations and nine lessons, the author outlines those nine ways to be an antiracist baby.
I can’t emphasize enough how much this book is such a powerful teaching tool that needs to be available in all homes and libraries throughout the world!
The author provides a note to parents and caregivers at the back of the book that helps with conversation about race and racism with young children. ...more
This story takes place in 1960, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
So, let us first understand what dead letters at a post office mean at that time and plaThis story takes place in 1960, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
So, let us first understand what dead letters at a post office mean at that time and place.
Back in the day, there was such a thing as a dead letter office (DLO) within the postal system where undeliverable mail was processed. Mail would be considered undeliverable when the address was considered invalid because it couldn’t be delivered to the addressee, or there was no return address. But the people who worked in the DLO would do everything within their powers to attempt to find the individuals before declaring the letters completely undeliverable. Thus, declaring the postal workers, “skilled dead letter detectives.” Sometimes being tasked with opening the letters to find potential clues.
And thus, this becomes our protagonist, Esther “EJ” Cloud’s story when Evelyn dumps some letters addressed to a Miss Mary Ann Evans on her desk.
Soon it becomes clear that these aren’t ordinary letters. And EJ becomes quite fascinated in her intent to find who the mysterious Dorothea, the sender could be.
In the meantime, she has a new neighbor who is determined to involve EJ in rehabilitating her garden. EJ who has enjoyed her quiet spinsterhood, is finding her life being disrupted in more ways than one with this added task at work, and now her quiet life at home being filled with people.
Will all these disruptions and change add something new or special to her life?
And what mysteries will be unraveled behind those dead letters that might spark something for EJ to discover about herself?
Although it doesn’t take center stage, readers are aware that because the book setting is in the south, in 1960, racism is felt through the author’s depiction of the civil rights movement.
The minimal scenes the author exposes readers to involve the rebellions against race, class, segregation, social injustice and sex discrimination of that time. But she also depicts characters being guided towards an allyship journey.
The story is character-driven with a great cast of characters.
Overall, the dialogue and humor keep the story moving at a quick pace, and the historical details help the narrative feel believable. And certainly, the mystery of the dead letters, keep readers curious about EJ’s personal evolution and self-discovery.
The added beauty of this novel is that there is a blend of literary, historical and mystery – with no dead bodies! When has that ever happened in a mystery (no dead bodies)?
And that book cover? So artful. There is something to be said about that flaming red hair (which will be important) and those flowers (gardens also are important here).
“The heart is the inner face of your life. The human journey strives to make this inner face beautiful. It is here that love gathers within you. Love “The heart is the inner face of your life. The human journey strives to make this inner face beautiful. It is here that love gathers within you. Love is absolutely vital for a human life. For love alone can awaken what is divine within you.”
Catching up…
This is one of those books that is with you, that you pick up and read as you need it when you need it. And so, even as I review it, I share with you, that this book has been with me for years. It is ageless to me. I started reading it slowly years ago. Then I read it cover to cover years ago. I still read it. It is an old book to me. It is a new book to me. I always see it with fresh eyes every time I open its pages.
And so, if you find this book, it may be one that once you get it, you may be like me. You may choose not to let it go.
Listen closely to his opening words…
“It is strange to be here. The mystery never leaves you alone. Behind your image, below your words, above your thought, the silence of another world exists. A world lives within you. No one else can bring you news of this inner world.”
If I were to even begin to attempt to interpret his thoughts, I would consider that he is asking us to go within. To recognize what is in each of us. To see the true artist within each of us. How can we not be mesmerized by what he sees within each of us? Or what he is asking each of us to see that exists within us?
This book taps into the richness of Celtic spirituality, poetry and stories. He explores friendship, awareness, and intimacy. Our senses. Our soul.
He asks us to recognize the aging process as living in rhythm with our soul and our life. Even looking at life all the way through to his last chapter as we affirm death and see it as an invitation to freedom.
There is so much to appreciate about his words. He is truly stirring our soul and stoking the fires of our imagination. He reminds us of the precious gift of present moment living.
Most the time my books are read and reviewed and released to my Little Free Library Shed. But this one evokes a different and deeper meaning for me. And so, it stays with me. Where I can read it again and again. As I need it, when I want it.
The words continue to resonate with me and remind me of the preciousness of life. The gift of what we have been given. And what comes back each time for me is a feeling of immense gratitude. I am grateful for this life.
I read this one years ago, and now I am bringing my review to Goodreads.
I confess, before streaming, and when Opra“I see you! I am here!”
Catching up…
I read this one years ago, and now I am bringing my review to Goodreads.
I confess, before streaming, and when Oprah had her television show, I use to DVR it and would love to watch it when I got home from work. And I remember when she featured the author and his book. So, who didn’t run out and buy this book when Oprah mentioned it? It was a birthday gift to her, and now she made him and his book famous.
Well, if you were too young when this happened, let’s just say that is what occurred with a whole generation at one time. And it wouldn’t have been a bad decision.
Even if it was one of Oprah’s all-time Favorite Things, his collection of reflections were truly gentle wake-up calls for anyone needing positive reminders for the life they wanted to live each day.
As a poet and philosopher, and cancer survivor, Nepo devoted his work to wholeness of mind, body and spirit. He shared that this daybook should be seen as a “spiritual sonnet of our age, a sturdy container for small doses of what matters.”
This daybook which covers the whole year, is an intimacy to all things. It is filled with an appreciation for tears, the art of letting go, friendship, the broken heart, healing, patience, and all the connections that link people with each other.
Also, for each day of the year there is an opportunity to read a daily inspiration, practice a breathing or meditation exercise and/or appreciate a suggestion on what you can do to just contemplate the day.
This book helps readers in a way that speaks directly to the heart about the beauty, bounty and blessings of life. And sometimes it is nice to have that daily reminder....more
“Home wasn’t a place, it was a person. For me it was a whole family.”
Can you keep a secret? Most importantly, not tell my husband? I have fallen head“Home wasn’t a place, it was a person. For me it was a whole family.”
Can you keep a secret? Most importantly, not tell my husband? I have fallen head over heels in love with another man. His name is Justin. How could I not? He sends surveys before dates to determine exactly what we would like to have happen. He is incredibly handsome, smart and takes care of his younger siblings. When sick, he is there in a nano second with everything needed to be sure we are well-taken care of. And most importantly, he has a dog named Brad.
So, what’s the problem?
He’s cursed. Or so he believes. And so is Emma. Or so she believes. Each one thinks that everyone else that they fall for only can last with them a few dates, but then when they break up with them, those persons will find their soulmates. Because that seems to be what always happens.
This is not what Justin wants for himself. Emma, seems to gravitate to a short-term life. Her abandonment since childhood makes it difficult for her to create any roots, except her long-term commitment to her career as a travelling nurse, and her very best friend Maddy.
So, what will happen with Justin and Emma? Will she give herself a chance to find her roots in Minnesota?
“Sometimes the best way to show love or be kind to someone is to meet them where they are.”
What will happen to me? (Just kidding!) I love my husband, madly.
There is so much between these pages, that I found myself noticing that, this is not a typical rom-com. There is real here. There is sad here. There are characters that we want to be truly upset with and not forgive, but know intuitively, that forgiveness is always the gift we give ourselves.
So, as readers, let us pay attention to what happens with everyone, because there is a complex and compelling plot, we need to be patient with, too.
But we can still be charmed with the wit and humor amidst the tragic family dynamics.
So, as we turn the pages, we learn so much because the story is rich with heart and soul and we are truly hopeful that maybe just maybe, Justin and Emma will find their HEA with each other. Because if anybody deserves it, they do....more
Oh, how I love my neighbors and their generosity to my Little Free Library Shed. And, it just so happens that this one is going to be a diCatching up…
Oh, how I love my neighbors and their generosity to my Little Free Library Shed. And, it just so happens that this one is going to be a discussion book for the Mobile Public Library in August which I have been invited to attend via Zoom. So, I am looking forward to the discussion. It was nice to re-visit this book again and catch up with all the characters.
Of course, this is not the typical Grisham. I love Grisham for his courtroom dramas. But he has been known to write other stories that have tugged at the heartstrings, and garnering readers attention.
So, if this isn’t courtroom drama, or a legal thriller, what is it?
Well. It is one of Grisham’s favorite pastimes, baseball. And even though baseball may not be a favorite type of story for me to read, it was something I enjoyed watching as a spectator in my younger days living in Southern California. (I was a Dodgers and Angels fan.)
And, this turned out to be quite a compelling and heart-felt story. So, I am grateful to have let myself be open to a different kind of reading experience.
This is a sweet, simple story. A story with a moral. Most importantly, a story about the importance of forgiveness.
“It’s known as the restorative powers of forgiveness.”
Joe Castle is a 21-year-old rather talented rookie first baseman for the Chicago Cubs. His nickname is the name of the book, Calico Joe. His nickname comes from his hometown of Calico Rock, Arkansas. His talent is all those homeruns he seems to hit every time he comes to bat!
Unfortunately, there is a pitcher, Warren Tracey who doesn’t play fair, and his intentions are to challenge batters which sometimes include throwing balls directly at batter’s heads. Will he do this to Joe?
And then there is the pitcher’s son, Paul, the narrator of the story, who knows that ball is coming but, stands silent as he watches the pitch.
What is going to happen next will leave readers spellbound. But it doesn’t happen right away. Grisham builds to that moment. And when it finally does…many lives will be changed, including Paul’s.
And that is what keeps readers turning pages in this captivating, easy-to-read, beautifully written story.
What will happen years later is what brings this story to its amazing climax. Including the emotions of its readers.
Is redemption possible? Perhaps Kleenex might be welcome in this moment.
But that isn’t the only moment. There is more. Keep reading to its very satisfying end. You’ll need the Kleenex again....more
This is the second book that came from my local library after I heard about the author’s passing.
The story opens with a boy kneeling at his bedside pThis is the second book that came from my local library after I heard about the author’s passing.
The story opens with a boy kneeling at his bedside putting his hand towards his stuffed bunny rabbit. It looks like he is dressed in his pajamas. He is in a very neat bedroom that has several stuffed animals placed on a dresser or sitting at a table. The books first lines read…
“Somewhere a pair of shoes lies under a chair. A window yawns open. Twilight blazes a trail across the wall.”
There was something surreal about this opening page. About this boy. This room. About a window that yawns open.
The story continues to show a beautiful moon with outdoor life alive. There are vibrant colors painted across the pages. The boy not ready to quite sleep.
But what we soon learn, is that it is more than this set-up, it is really about what happens if the moon could talk all across the world.
And that is the beauty of this beautifully illustrated book.
Through these pages, we visit so many places around the world – nature – people – wild life – and back again to the boy’s room – to find out what happens…
So how do you dignify a man’s death who dies reading about buzzards on top of a toilet seat? Well, you show up at his funeral. Afterall that is AndrewSo how do you dignify a man’s death who dies reading about buzzards on top of a toilet seat? Well, you show up at his funeral. Afterall that is Andrew’s job.
Kind of. Sort of. Andrew wants to appear as a tenderhearted, thoughtful person who is happily married with two children. But he really isn’t, married with two children, it is a miscommunication he failed to correct to his colleagues and employer.
And we root for Andrew to come clean and connect, as much for his benefit as our entertainment. After all, isn’t that what the title of the book is all about?
But in order to do that, he has to confront the heartbreak that derailed him in the first place.
Andrew’s workplace, the Death Administration, occupies the best place in the novel. He is required to visit people who died alone, look for next of kin and arrange their funerals. What an interesting job, yes?
And the author takes us on a journey with his characters that have the gambit of emotions that readers can feel too – lonely – confused – misguided – bumbling – profoundly bereft.
There is much compassion here. And humor.
Will Andrew come clean with his colleagues? Will he find his happily ever after? Will he be one of those individuals that die alone?
Be patient with this one. You may find you enjoy it after all.
I have been on a healthy eating journey for quite some time, especially as I have been addressing how easily it is to become addicted to sugar. So, when I read Liong’s review, I thought this book would be another teaching tool for me in my fight against sugar addiction.
And yes, the first thing to do, was to acknowledge that it was a battle to overcome.
For any one of us who struggle with sugar addictions, this book was enlightening.
The author shares in his introduction…
“…over the past 150 years food has become…not food. It’s not food. It’s an industrially produced edible substance.”
We have become a society in a hurry, some on restricted budgets, and thus, prone to eat ultra-processed foods (UPF). It is marketed to us as healthy, without additive chemicals, and yet, that is exactly what it is not. The author states…
“UPF is a collection of substances through which these deeper societal problems harm the body.”
And once we understand this, we may find our way to solving our own specific interest in foods not good for us. To a point, that we may even become disgusted (as the author did) with the reality of what they are and how they don’t serve our body.
The author makes us contemplate whether this will be enough to convince us to choose to not eat them at all.
According to the author, we need to understand UPF and its impact, and what to look for.
Which sometimes can be as simple as reading the nutritional labels on the processed foods that we purchase. And, attempting to look up what those ingredients are. I know, it sounds like a lot of extra work and time, for which we may be limited in having. But, isn’t this our body we are trying to protect?
Let me explain why this has become so important to me. (And I hope you will forgive me this long review.)
A few years ago, I learned that I had nightshades. For those not familiar, nightshades create an allergic reaction to certain plants and vegetables that are typically toxic because they contain glycoalkaloids (a chemical compound found in a family of plants that creates health concerns for those showing sensitivity to those plants). Once I knew which plants and vegetables were in the nightshades family, I eliminated them from my diet.
But I soon learned that sometimes they might be hidden in other products. As an example, after applying mustard to my hamburger bun a few months back, I didn’t understand why several hours later I was itching and breaking out in a rash. As it turns out, this particular mustard had paprika in it. And paprika is in the nightshade family.
I have found that reading labels gives me better insight into what is contained in any food item that is being produced and packaged.
Why mention this, besides my own issue sharing of nightshades?
Because the author reminds us that it is sometimes easier to be oblivious to those ingredients. We want to believe that what is manufactured and/or marketed is truly meant for our well-being. And, unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.
As an example, I learned long ago that anything that has high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in it was not healthy. In fact, if you eat something with this ingredient, you will still think you are hungry, because HFCS is sweet. And this sweet manufactured sugar has a way of affecting our body chemistry, to think that we still are hungry, even after eating a full meal with dessert.
So, the author guides us to read the labels and become vigilant in recognizing the ultra-processed ingredients that could affect us.
And a lot of what the author shares, in Part I specifically, is about artificial sweeteners. Something manufacturers have included in their processed products, because it sells.
As an example, the author has us consider the following….
How many of us grew up on Coco Pops? Who doesn’t love chocolate in the morning?
“Coco Pops meets the definition of UPF because of the glucose syrup, the cocoa mass and the flavorings. They are a spectacular triumph of engineering.”
Bottom line, the author is warning us that modified foods are affecting us. It has already been shown to contribute to heart disease, diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease and an abnormal level of cholesterol and other fats in the blood.
So, what can we do with this knowledge?
The author, a doctor, scientist and a journalist, has trustworthy credentials. Thus, for me, his book is a wake-up call, a warning to humans about how UPF is sickening us. He believes they are unnatural for our bodies to handle.
He shows us how UPF translate as junk food: packaged snacks, soda, sugary cereals, energy drinks and/or candy bars.
With UPF, manufacturers gain profits. For people who eat them, we gain weight and unhealthy dis-ease of our body.
In fact, the author truly believes that the rapid increase in obesity since the 1980’s is “the correspondingly rapid increase in production and consumption of UPF food and drink products.” He concludes that obesity is not caused by the usual suspects – sugar, salt, fat or lack of exercise – but by the synthetics, chemicals and stabilizers in UPF.
The question then becomes…
Do we eat more when food is cheap, or do we eat more cheap food because the processing tricks us into eating more? (Remember what I shared about the addictive nature of HFCS?)
Which leads any reader of this book to be scared straight. And perhaps that is what is needed in order for us to appreciate what it will take for us to re-evaluate what we choose to put in our bodies. ...more
About a year ago, my oldest son told me that his daughter/our granddaughter, age 10 at the time, might“Why be normal when you can soar like a dragon?”
About a year ago, my oldest son told me that his daughter/our granddaughter, age 10 at the time, might be on the autism spectrum.
And…
That a teacher in her school said that she was showing all the signs.
I asked him if he was going to have her assessed, seen by a doctor…
And…
He said he didn’t think anything was wrong with her, that she was intelligent, and artistic…
Just…
Different.
I understood his concerns. He was afraid she would be labeled, possibly bullied, teased and completely misunderstood by her diagnosis, once one would be given.
The author shares in her note at the back…
“An autism diagnosis doesn’t have to be a “curse” or a “bad thing.”
But…
Still, my son has chosen to do nothing, even as the author advocates speaking with a medical professional who can provide “the most helpful starting point for providing discernment and direction for next steps.”
For me…
I just wanted to understand her.
And…
Remain hopeful that my granddaughter will have a future free of uncomfortable conflicts for embracing her true and beautiful self – whatever that might be for her.
So…
When I heard about this book, by reading a review about it from one of my Goodreads friends, TL, I knew immediately that I wanted to read it. TL’s review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Once I opened the pages, I couldn’t stop reading.
Told in verse, this is a story about a middle school girl named Selah, learning a lot about herself, by coming to self-discovery about being on the autism spectrum.
“I use to think my rules could save me, make me happy, but all I see now are the ways they make me feel like I’m not enough.”
The author discloses in her ‘Author’s Note’ that she is also on the spectrum. She chose to write this book so that people could see through her prose and resources in the back, ways in which neurodivergent kids could advocate for themselves.
And…
As readers, we come to understand a few points…
That…
It isn’t important to be what others consider normal.
“We need to prove …that you are just like any other kid there.”
“But I’m not! I want to say. I’m not just like any other kid.”
As well as…
How freeing it is to accept oneself and communicate one’s truth…
“…Two different people who like different things…and for once I realize there’s nothing wrong with that.”
And…
Recognize the courage being displayed when one chooses this path of self-acceptance.
“I am autistic. My brain is different but beautiful.”
Thus…
Eventually learning how to advocate for one’s needs and finding pride in the person they are.
And…
As readers we learn that…
This isn’t easy for neurodivergent individuals. To be understood. To find the right words. Or even to always understand themselves. Or others.
The book shows through its story, how we can show sensitivity, acceptance, understanding and care.
It is…
Moving. Profound and heartfelt. Powerful and insightful.
Readers will appreciate how the main character, Selah gains self-knowledge and self-advocacy.
And…
Maybe just maybe, my granddaughter will find her way to loving and understanding who she is, and know we love her just as she is, too....more
This book has been named one of Shondaland and Town & Country’s best books of May 2023, one of Lambda Literary’s most anticipated LGBTQIA+ booksFirst…
This book has been named one of Shondaland and Town & Country’s best books of May 2023, one of Lambda Literary’s most anticipated LGBTQIA+ books and Cosmopolitan’s Best books of 2023.
Second…
This author has an interesting resume. He is an author, playwright and screenwriter. His debut novel, “A Star is Bored” is apparently about an uptight celebrity assistant struggling to manage his eccentric movie star boss.
And…
That book was inspired in part by his time as an assistant to late actress Carrie Fisher. I have ordered this one from my library, so I am looking forward to reading it.
He is also a two-time Emmy award winner from his time as a TV news journalist.
And…
One last fun fact, if you didn’t know, Lane is married to fellow author, Stephen Rowley who wrote “The Guncle” which I also read and reviewed this month. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
On to this story…
“I’m engaged.”
“Engaged in what?”
“Engaged to be married to a great guy.”
So…
Farmer Mom are you going to be happy for the couple? Your only son and the love of his life?
She had expectations that he was coming home to help her on the farm.
But…
We readers had expectations for a Big Gay Wedding. Of course, we did, because that is what the title of this book is, right?
What is the problem?
Well…
Farmer Mom hasn’t exactly been accepting and/or supportive of her son being gay.
And…
That gives a sense of why each chapter begins with:
Countdown to Damnation: this many days/hours/minutes.
So…
What will it take to get her to change her thinking?
There is a lot of spirit and a charming narrative voice…
With…
Animals to love (with Kleenex moments) and people to care about, and quirky family members and expectations to overcome.
And…
We would all like to believe that our loved ones are going to accept us just as we are, because we offer unconditional love to them automatically, right?
But…
Understanding, doesn’t always come easily, especially when we have different ideals and expectations for our loved ones.
This is the gift that Lane conveys in his writing.
There may be a path to growth, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it will be an easy one to follow.
And…
There will be sensitively written moments in which the author has readers face some difficult subjects (including homophobia and hate crimes).
And…
He does it in a way that has characters empowered to stand up for themselves and their loved ones.
These are worthy reading moments.
Will Farmer Mom find herself moving towards acceptance of her son?
"The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library." Albert Einstein (1879-1955. Theoretical physicist)
She was direction"The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library." Albert Einstein (1879-1955. Theoretical physicist)
She was directionless. A semi-colleague suggested the community house that provided near free classes which then led her to the library that was available to her for living in that part of the city.
And…That one visit, opened doors. Never could she have imagined the possibilities of what she was capable of creating for herself by revisiting a children’s book recommended by the librarian.
Especially when that wasn’t what she had asked for when she came in. She is also handed a gift by the librarian…
Which… At the time the gift is given doesn’t make sense.
But…As the story builds, the gift eventually becomes clear.
Nor…How the books or gift would affect her outlook on life and the people she interacted with in her life.
"Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one." Neil Gaiman (b. 1960. English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre, and films)
And…That was just the beginning for this book of short stories, that showcased the impact libraries have on all of us.
Each story finds characters face-to-face with the same librarian, being asked what books they need…
And then…Being given a list that also includes a book that seems unrelated to what they thought they needed…
As well as a gift from the librarian that will soon make sense by the end of the story.
Each individual is transformed from their experience at the library.
The stories are simple, and yet…
Thoughtful and pleasing. The illustrations that accompany the beginning of each story captures the contemporary aesthetic beautifully.
How can we not appreciate the value of what libraries do for us and our communities?
As well as showing how inter-connected we are, as a community of people.
This story was translated from Japanese by Alison Watts. I have included some of my favorite library quotes below.
"Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life." Sidney Sheldon (1917-2007. American writer and producer)
"You want weapons? We’re in a library. Books are the best weapon in the world. This room’s the greatest arsenal we could have. Arm yourself!" Russell T. Davies (b. 1963. Welsh screenwriter and television producer) in science fiction series Doctor Who.
Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation. Walter Cronkite (1916-2009. American broadcast journalist, in American Library Association "Libraries Change Lives" Campaign, 1995)
"I'm a Librarian, Librarianship is my religion, Libraries are my temple, and Catalog is my key weapon to unlock the wealth of wisdom and knowledge stored in the libraries." Salman Haider (Librarian, cataloger, blogger, and creator of Librarianship Studies & Information Technology blog)...more
This is a very scenic book, filled with much love, loss, challenges and laughter.
And…
When people are dealing with loss, it is wonderful to feel the laughter, too.
Especially for these kids, Grant and Maisie, who have tragically lost their mother and also have to deal with their dad in drug rehabilitation…
Thus…
Leaving them now moved in with Patrick, a gay man living in Palm Springs. (Hence: the title of the book.)
And…
When I say it is scenic, I am not kidding. You can feel the imagery of place everywhere. It engages all the senses. Feel this one with Patrick outside with his dog…
“Marlene lay at his feet, the patio stones finally cool and offering relief from the warm night air.”
If anyone has been to Palm Springs, you know exactly what I mean. If you haven’t…
Well…
That is the feeling.
This story is engaging, endearing, thoughtful, heart-felt, and full of emotional growth. There are life-altering changes that happen for the characters, and you want to follow and see where it takes readers.
And…
Readers are going to love the “Guncle rules.” Wisdom for the kids.
As well as…
Just maybe a little wisdom for us readers, too....more
Because of its size, (560 pages), I opted to read it as an in-between book. (In-between my other books.)
I am not typically a fan of period pieces, and usually avoid them. It doesn’t mean I don’t like historical fiction, I do, but…
I usually prefer the WWII era.
However…
Lately, it seems I am going back in time more.
And…
I am grateful to have many of you encouraging me to do so.
Now…
This story finds us crossing time, when a cache of mid-17th-century papers are found in modern-day London. An academic and her Ph.D. student are on a mission to fit the pieces of the puzzle together to find out who wrote these pages.
And…
That takes readers to meeting another central character, a brilliant young Jewish woman working with a blind Rabbi at the time of these papers being produced.
What was her role with these papers? And will they be able to discover it? And what story do these papers tell?
The images of these different times and places and well-fleshed-out characters, brought to life through detail and well-crafted writing, are the gift of this book.
And…
There is also the complexities of being Jewish and choosing to enter into interfaith relationships that are central to the novel.
So…
How does that affect the story? The characters? The community?
And…
What does it mean to choose survival over martyrdom?
The author interweaves her themes and characters’ journeys so skillfully, as readers we can’t help but be drawn into their lives and struggles.
And…
For me, when one of the characters began to suffer from rapidly advancing Parkinson’s Disease, I couldn’t help but be affected. Watching my own mother’s decline from the disease prior to her death was difficult and painful.
There was…
So much to appreciate about this story. The “weight of ink” refers to the special ink used in the 17th century that was so heavy it created holes in the parchment.
But…
Mostly the title reflects the transformative power of the written word.
And…
Isn’t that what draws us to read? The idea that we can truly be transformed through written words?
This is…
Amazing taut, gripping storytelling.
One last thing…
Be sure to read the Author’s notes for her insights and background into the writing of this story.
And…
I loved when I read what another reviewer shared about this book, that I felt I had to include in my review…
“The Weight of Ink has the brains of a scholar, the drive of a sleuth, and the soul of a lover.”
Beautifully stated. Thank you, DeB for this recommendation....more
You are probably wondering how I was able to read 1125 books this year, right?
Let me explain. It might take a minute.
This is…
My first real year oSo…
You are probably wondering how I was able to read 1125 books this year, right?
Let me explain. It might take a minute.
This is…
My first real year on Goodreads…
Even though I officially joined in 2022. I have been learning how to navigate this site this year. I didn’t realize how much I would enjoy Goodreads until this year, when I decided to become friends with you.
When you asked me to be your friend…
I was so grateful.
And…
When you accepted my friend request, I felt so appreciative.
This experience with you has been so thrilling at so many levels because of you. I always look forward to our shared comments under each other’s reviews.
And…
Your recommendations for books have enhanced my reading experiences immensely.
Also…
I have met some amazing authors, been offered some incredible books to read, and made some lifelong friends through this community.
So…
Thank you for accepting me into your reading world.
This year… as of December 31 I have read and re-visited 363,921 pages, 1125 books.
The shortest book I read was 16 pages – Frog and Toad Alone by Arnold Lobel. The longest book I read was 1,376 pages – Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. It says that my average rating was 3.8, although it would be nice if the rating system here on Goodreads actually showed more than a 1-5 rating.
When I first started the reading challenge, I put in that I was only going to read 200 books.
But…
I surpassed that number rather quickly…
And…
I was told by one of my friends that I needed to up that number…
So…
I did, to 850.
Which…
I obviously surpassed again.
But…
I need to be clear that the reason that this number of books is so high is because I am catching up with all the books, I have read over the past several years. All I am trying to do is to get all those past books I have already read (by revisiting them) and then providing written reviews for Goodreads.
And…
At the same time be able to read current books…
And…
Review them, too.
I know, quite the workload, right?
This may take a while. At some point, I may give up on those past books, who knows!
I am not going to list the books I have read (here), I encourage you to go to my page, if you are interested to check them out. I am rather an eclectic reader. I will read anything and everything…from children’s books, to YA novels, to mysteries, to historical fiction to magical realism to non-fiction to memoirs and more.
And…
I also prefer print books. I like the feel of a book in my hands. I am old-fashioned that way.
Mostly…
I want to thank you. Thank you for making this experience so meaningful. I look forward to reading and sharing 2024 with you.
Because…
You make this fun. I love discussing books with you. Without you…why write reviews?...more
In “Hungry Ghost” I shared that “my sister and I lived this experience, too.” In reference to having an eating disorder. I also said that,Catching up…
In “Hungry Ghost” I shared that “my sister and I lived this experience, too.” In reference to having an eating disorder. I also said that, “Even as I enter into a new decade, it doesn’t mean that I still don’t struggle with body image issues. Did you think this was just a teenage thing? Think again.”
Through therapy, I have been able to talk about my shame and discomfort with these thoughts and beliefs about myself, and my struggles with disordered eating at even my ripe old age.
And…
This was one of the books that I read years ago, and had been reintroduced to by my therapist.
So…
With all the stress of my husband’s illness triggering issues for me, I felt it was time to revisit this book again.
First of all…
Let me just say I am not a religious person. I am spiritual.
And…
There is a difference.
So…
I was a bit concerned about how I felt about having God in the title of this, or God being responsible for anything here. I have always been one to take full responsibility for my life, which included recognizing that love starts from within.
But…
I was interested in learning more about my disordered eating (and obsession about it) and how I could demystify weight loss. In a healthy way. And if that meant believing in myself and my own inner strength, I was ready to address it.
And…
What she shares in her prologue touched me.
“…our relationship to food is an exact microcosm of our relationship to life itself.”
So…
It was time again to dive deep into my disordered eating issues. (A preoccupation with food and its adverse effects on my mental well-being and physical health.)
One of the first issues for me to overcome, was the issue of shame. That feeling that I am not good enough as I am – and if I weren’t thin, I would not be considered attractive/interesting/relevant.
And…
That at my stage of life, why should I still be concerned, as a happily married woman, about how I look or am to others? Or even to my husband, who loves me for me.
On page 84, Roth shares…
“You are not a mistake. You are not a problem to be solved. But you won’t discover this until you are willing to stop banging your head against the wall of shaming…yourself.”
Which…
Definitely resonated with me. I knew the pressure I was putting on myself to be a specific weight, and it was literally killing me. I wasn’t experiencing food in a nurturing way, or respecting how it made me a healthy person.
Because…
What I would do would measure how good I was based on what my weight scale told me that day.
And…
If I wasn’t happy with the number, I would find a way to deny myself further nourishment. This behavior was definitely leading me down a slippery slope.
I needed to simply…
Trust myself. Love myself. Respect myself. Regain control of myself.
This book, or guide, or meaningful sharing of empowerment, for those of us who struggle with eating disorders or disordered eating, is thoughtful and kind. Something we need to learn to be for ourselves.
And…
Roth takes us to the places that define thoughtful and kind to ourselves by providing this book in 3 parts: 1 – principles, 2 – practices, and 3 – eating. With these 14 chapters readers will be guided and prodded to look at eating differently. She also shares an epilogue of last words, and an addendum which also includes an Inquiry Practice and ‘The Eating Guidelines.’ (Included below in the quotes.)
There is so much here to take in and appreciate.
And…
Even if the title is misleading (since it could be a guide for men, too – and God isn’t really a character in this book), there were still some tidbits to be gained from her personal experiences.
So, let me just leave it with this from the author herself…
“In each moment of kindness you lavish upon your breaking heart or the size of your thighs, with each breath you take – God has been here. She is you.”
Yes…She is you. The best possible version of ourselves. A beautiful work in progress.
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