Your book really touched me and I want to share it with the world!!
The Characters Tacker Hart has come home disgraced, from NigerDear Elaine Neil Orr,
Your book really touched me and I want to share it with the world!!
The Characters Tacker Hart has come home disgraced, from Nigeria to Winston Salem. He might be disgraced, but he did learn how to treat African Americans in an empathetic way while he was there. Kate Monroe needs answers. She goes on a quest to find them. She is the love interest for Tacker. They both encounter Gaines Townson, an African American, who believes that nonviolence is the answer.
Sometimes the interaction among these three was not perfect, but you described them so well, and I loved them just the same.
Swimming!! The story itself 'swims' between what happened in Nigeria and what is happening in North Carolina. And then there is the swimming pool...
Location I met my husband in Charlotte and loved to go to Winston Salem to shop, dine and see the sites (The Wachovia Building- now Wells Fargo- was a favorite).
The Writing I especially loved these quotes both from Chapter 1
“If working at Hart’s as a teenager had instilled in Tacker a sense of democracy (“Meet every customer with respect,” his father had said, though now Tacker could see that not everyone was actually included), football had taught him fair play, a concept also apparently defunct.”
”He (Tacker) figured himself a pilgrim out to slay the dragon of his failure.”
Of course, I liked other quotes too, but I want to leave it to your new readers to find them on their own.
Sadly, my library does not even have a copy of your wonderful book. And my library branch is the Martin Luther King branch. If they will accept it, I will give them my copy as a donation. This book should be easily accessible to all.
This is the first book you have authored that I have read. Needless to say, it will not be my last.
Sincerely, Celia Phillips
5 shining stars
Merged review:
Dear Elaine Neil Orr,
Your book really touched me and I want to share it with the world!!
The Characters Tacker Hart has come home disgraced, from Nigeria to Winston Salem. He might be disgraced, but he did learn how to treat African Americans in an empathetic way while he was there. Kate Monroe needs answers. She goes on a quest to find them. She is the love interest for Tacker. They both encounter Gaines Townson, an African American, who believes that nonviolence is the answer.
Sometimes the interaction among these three was not perfect, but you described them so well, and I loved them just the same.
Swimming!! The story itself 'swims' between what happened in Nigeria and what is happening in North Carolina. And then there is the swimming pool...
Location I met my husband in Charlotte and loved to go to Winston Salem to shop, dine and see the sites (The Wachovia Building- now Wells Fargo- was a favorite).
The Writing I especially loved these quotes both from Chapter 1
“If working at Hart’s as a teenager had instilled in Tacker a sense of democracy (“Meet every customer with respect,” his father had said, though now Tacker could see that not everyone was actually included), football had taught him fair play, a concept also apparently defunct.”
”He (Tacker) figured himself a pilgrim out to slay the dragon of his failure.”
Of course, I liked other quotes too, but I want to leave it to your new readers to find them on their own.
Sadly, my library does not even have a copy of your wonderful book. And my library branch is the Martin Luther King branch. If they will accept it, I will give them my copy as a donation. This book should be easily accessible to all.
This is the first book you have authored that I have read. Needless to say, it will not be my last.
I am a strong adherent of Eucharistic Adoration. This book is the best resource I have ever encountered for support of this beautiful Catholic traditiI am a strong adherent of Eucharistic Adoration. This book is the best resource I have ever encountered for support of this beautiful Catholic tradition.
This book was assembled by the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration who are dedicated to a loving witness to Christ's Eucharistic Presence.
It starts with this quote by J.R.R. Tolkien: "I put before you the one great thing to love on earth: the Blessed Sacrament... There you will find romance, glory, honor, fidelity, and the true way of all your loves on earth."
I have used it for the last 6 months and many times, it brought tears of appreciation to my eyes.
Synopsis (from Wikipedia) Under the Net is a 1954 novel by Iris Murdoch. Set in London, it is the story of a struggling young writer, Jake Donaghue. MuSynopsis (from Wikipedia) Under the Net is a 1954 novel by Iris Murdoch. Set in London, it is the story of a struggling young writer, Jake Donaghue. Murdoch's first novel, its mixture of the philosophical and the picaresque has made it one of Murdoch's most popular novels.
What the heck is picaresque?? Wikipedia says!!
The picaresque novel (from Spanish pícaro, for "rogue" or "rascal") is a genre of prose fiction that depicts the adventures of a roguish, but "appealing hero", of low social class, who lives by his or her wits in a corrupt society.
Other Characters (from Wikipedia and the ones important to me!!) Magdalen Casement (Madge), Jake's 'land lady' Hugo Belfounder, a fireworks manufacturer and film magnate Anna Quentin, a singer Sadie Quentin, a film star Mr. Mars, an Alsatian (dog)
Themes (at least two that I thought compelling)
Inadequacy of Language
Quote No 1- "The whole language is a machine for making falsehoods.’" Quote No 2- "Actions don’t lie, words always do.” But now I see that this was all a hallucination.’"
Unrequited Love -Jake loves Anna -Anna loves Hugo -Hugo loves Sadie -Sadie loves Jake
I am amazed by how much I liked this book. There's nothing to admire about Jake, yet his story is entertaining and a breeze to read. Iris Murdoch, in this, her first novel, is quite good in her descriptions and phrasing.
Ray Bradbury is a genius. This is the second book I have read by him. The other was Fahrenheit 451 which I loved. Well, believe it or not, I liked thiRay Bradbury is a genius. This is the second book I have read by him. The other was Fahrenheit 451 which I loved. Well, believe it or not, I liked this one better.
I think the publisher's description says it all about the book. Read it on the book/show page. This description even lists the names of each of the short stories. My copy of the book included dates with these titles ranging from January 1999 to October 2026. All of these dates were in the future when the book was written. Not any more. 😔
Description from the Back Cover of My Edition:
Leaving behind a world on the brink of destruction, man came to the Red Planet and found the Martians waiting, dreamlike. Seeking the promise of a new beginning, man brought with him his oldest fears and his deepest desires. Man conquered Mars-and in that instant, Mars conquered him. The strange new world with its ancient dying race and vast red-gold deserts cast a spell on him, settled into his dreams, and changed him forever. Here are the captivating chronicles of man and Mars- the peerless modern classic from Ray Bradbury.
Compare this description with the one provided by the publisher. You will get a full picture of this book.
Alice James was born in Harlem and eventually runs for her life. Taken off the train in Oregon, the conductor brings her, injured by a bullet, to PortAlice James was born in Harlem and eventually runs for her life. Taken off the train in Oregon, the conductor brings her, injured by a bullet, to Portland's Paragon Hotel. Once there her story gets complicated and surprising. We learn why she was shot and why she ran.
It is the 1920's and Prohibition is in full swing; racism is prevalent in Portland. Alice is welcomed to the Paragon Hotel to recuperate, even though she is white and the other guests black. She becomes close to Blossom Fontaine, a black actress who lives at the Paragon. She meets Davy Lee, a young black boy whom Blossom has rescued from the streets. Alice, Blossom, Davy and Miss Christina go to a carnival and experience the Fun House. While there Davy disappears. A search involving the local police ensues over many days. The Ku Klux Klan is involved as well.
This story is told in first person sarcastic. Sarcastic is the voice I think Alice is using. I actually loved Alice's voice. Very unique and engaging. Reminds me of Stephanie Plum's (Janet Evanovich) irreverence.
Recommend to any historical fiction lover. There is mystery and intrigue and looking for a missing child. Those of you who love mystery will love this book also.
I nice - in order - list of Jodi's books. Does not include the last two but that is OK. The book also includes a list of other authors who have writteI nice - in order - list of Jodi's books. Does not include the last two but that is OK. The book also includes a list of other authors who have written series.
Picoult was on Book-TV's InDepth Program on Nov 4. What a well-spoken author who definitely has some ideas worth listening to. If interested go to
Things Fall Apart is a classic of African literature which describes the effect of Christian missionaries arrival in southeastern Nigeria in the 1890'Things Fall Apart is a classic of African literature which describes the effect of Christian missionaries arrival in southeastern Nigeria in the 1890's.
The novel follows the life of Okonkwo, an Igbo ("Ibo" in the novel) man and local wrestling champion in the fictional Nigerian clan of Umuofia. The work is split into three parts, with the first describing his family, personal history, and the customs and society of the Igbo, and the second and third sections introducing the influence of British colonialism and Christian missionaries on the Igbo community.
The story had this reader conflicted. Who am I rooting for? The Igbo with their primitive and often violent culture or the missionaries who are going to save them from themselves?
Very thought provoking book. I hope to read it again some day and think some more!!
4 stars
PS. There are two more books in the trilogy. Reading them might clarify my thoughts or who knows, confuse me more!! ...more
Victoria Thompson, author of City of Lies, is an award winning author of the Gaslight Series, a series of 22 'cozy' mysteries that take place in turn Victoria Thompson, author of City of Lies, is an award winning author of the Gaslight Series, a series of 22 'cozy' mysteries that take place in turn of the century New York City.
City of Lies is the first in the Counterfeit Lady series featuring Elizabeth Miles, a grifter. I decided to read it as I have received an ARC of the second in the series, City of Secrets.
I have not read too many cozy mysteries. But I am glad that I ran into this one.
The plot revolves around cons perpetrated by Elizabeth and her cohorts. VERY interesting premise. Very interesting lead character as well. Could you like a woman who lies for a living? Perhaps, because Thompson does a great job of weaving good things about Elizabeth into the story. In the process, the reader learns about the women's suffrage movement. Thompson herself did not know much about it and certainly did not know the suffering the suffragists went through to get the vote for women.
So this book involves true historical events, illegal activities, romance and justice. Looking forward to #2. BTW, the author's note is well worth the read. Thompson emphasizes what is true in her book and what she made up for drama effect. Thank you Victoria!!
Meet three ladies. All are travelers. In 1956, it is Louise who is travelling. She is married to a screen writer. She is an actress. Her next 'assignmMeet three ladies. All are travelers. In 1956, it is Louise who is travelling. She is married to a screen writer. She is an actress. Her next 'assignment' is to film in Las Vegas. She sets off in her cherry red Studebaker Champion, leaving her paralyzed husband to fend for himself.
In 1926, Flossie sets out for Hollywood. Before she can get out of the driveway, her high school friend, Ethyl, 'flags' her down and asks to go too. Her husband and daughter have left home, both leaving notes. Carl, her husband, has left for Nevada, taking daughter Anna Louise (age 6) with him.
There are so many references to history in this book. I am a child of the 50's, so recognized many of the 1950 references. The journey in 1926 was very enlightening as well. Imagine two ladies, both who had worked at The Radium Company painting watch dials, trekking 3000 miles in a Model T on roads that were not even paved. Talk about adventurous ladies!!
I did enjoy the book, but the ending was weak. All of a sudden everything was all neatly tied up with a bow. I think it took the author 4 pages to suddenly sum up the book. If not for that, the book would have had 5 stars.
4 stars
Discussed at book club and lots of sharing ensued!!...more
“Unfamiliar Fishes”. The title refers to a Hawaiian scholar’s grim warning that “large and unfamiliar fishes will come from the dark ocean, and when t“Unfamiliar Fishes”. The title refers to a Hawaiian scholar’s grim warning that “large and unfamiliar fishes will come from the dark ocean, and when they see the small fishes . . . they will eat them up” (from the NY Times review dated Apr 1, 2011).
In 1898, the United States annexed three territories: Hawaii, Guam and Puerto Rico. They also invaded Cuba and the Philippines. A very critical year in the history of the US.
This book is about the acquisition and history of Hawaii. The Americanization of Hawaii is described in detail. That and the history of Hawaii before that year.
Sara Vowell brings her signature wit and thorough research to this book. I learned alot about missionaries, kings and queens, and Hawaiians who say they are not Americans.
Sometimes I do not see the blessings in my life. Reading this book has helped me to KNOW that books are blessings to me. Imagine a world where books aSometimes I do not see the blessings in my life. Reading this book has helped me to KNOW that books are blessings to me. Imagine a world where books are banned. Censorship and the discouragement of 'thinking' is what results.
I did some searching on Google about Fahrenheit 451 and found an HBO Original movie based on the book. The genre of this movie?? HORROR/Science Fiction. Horror is so appropriate. My life is my books. I would be lost without them.
PLEASE... do not take away my books.
Short Summary of the Book (Taken, in part, from Sparknotes)
Guy Montag is a fireman who burns books in a futuristic American city. In Montag’s world, firemen start fires rather than putting them out. The people in this society do not read books, enjoy nature, spend time by themselves, think independently, or have meaningful conversations. Instead, they drive very fast, watch excessive amounts of television on wall-size sets, and listen to the radio on “Seashell Radio” sets attached to their ears.
Montag briefly meets a gentle seventeen-year-old girl named Clarisse McClellan, who opens his eyes to the emptiness of his life with her innocently penetrating questions.
He becomes confused about the value of books and seeks out Faber, an English Professor that Montag once encountered. He decides that this man might be able to help him understand what he reads. He visits Faber, who tells him that the value of books lies in the detailed awareness of life that they contain. Faber says that Montag needs not only books but also the leisure to read them and the freedom to act upon their ideas.
Much more takes place while Montag and Faber attempt a risky scheme to restore the status quo.
I can't believe that I never read this book before.
5 stars
PS. I am right there with you on this book, Elyse....more
Simon Winchester has done it again. A clear concise study of the history of the Oxford English Dictionary. I have already read one of his books, The MSimon Winchester has done it again. A clear concise study of the history of the Oxford English Dictionary. I have already read one of his books, The Madman and the Professor, which describes one of the aspects of the project. This book followed that one and described the entire history instead of only one area. I listened to the audio narrated by the author, but also borrowed the book from the library. It is full of pictures of all the people who were involved, as well as an index of subjects and a list of further reading. If you thought that creating a dictionary of this magnitude was easy, sorry, you are incorrect. The book took 70+ years and three editors to complete. The first edition (started in 1854) was completed in 1928 and comprised 10 volumes and 10,000+ pages. This book primarily describes all the people involved in the creation of the dictionary and the methods used to gather the data. A very interesting book that taught me much. Any reader should invest time in reading this book. 4 stars...more
This is the second in the series by Victoria Thompson entitled "Counterfeit Lady". I read the first which introduced Elizabeth Miles, a resourceful woThis is the second in the series by Victoria Thompson entitled "Counterfeit Lady". I read the first which introduced Elizabeth Miles, a resourceful woman who with father, brother and others, perpetrates cons on people. These people undoubtedly deserve it because they are just as guilty of wanting to cheat others as the Miles 'clan' is.
I enjoyed the first book and am glad to continue on with the second. Thompson weaves a story around real historical events. In this book the reader is introduced to Mrs. Edith B. Ordway and her book The Etiquette of Today which were considered the ultimate authorities on such matters. We also learned of the The Safe Deposit Company of New York, the first independent safe‑ deposit company, opened in 1865. (in the book, the time period is 1920's and the company is still viable).
Elizabeth Miles is engaged to be married to Gideon Bates, a very painfully honest and incorruptible lawyer. It is nice to see that the two can come to grips with their differences and forge a loving relationship. Or... can they?
I am amazed that I would like this book so much. It is a book written for the 9-11 age group. Yet our adult book club consisting of 8 women had selectI am amazed that I would like this book so much. It is a book written for the 9-11 age group. Yet our adult book club consisting of 8 women had selected it for our Sept read. I have to admit, I was aghast. Why would the Sept hostess pick this book. I'm glad that she did because I really enjoyed it.
The book is tailor made for someone like me. I was a math major in college and am into music, playing 'a little' piano and doing some singing at church.
From Kirkus Reviews: Middle school misfit Nicholas embarks on a wild adventure involving long-lost family heirlooms.
Nicholas is a science whiz, a music prodigy and a math genius. He has no friends and is bullied by almost everyone. His stillborn brother is buried in the backyard under a pine tree planted in his memory. Nicholas speaks to him via his violin and hears his voice in the air. He may lose this all-important relationship if his parents are forced to sell their home. His life is further complicated by the arrival of his ex-con, senile grandfather, whose rambling memories hint at buried treasure. When fellow misfits Jordan and Zeke, along with Jordan’s grandfather, form an unholy alliance with Nicholas, they uncover multiple secrets: a haunted house, a mysterious island, shipwrecks, gangsters and more. Convoluted clues, lots of red herrings, interference and danger from many directions all result in a not-so-merry chase—for the characters, though not for readers. As they careen from one mad adventure to another, the boys also discover truths about themselves and how to negotiate the morass of emotions and relationships that form the social jungle. Baker has Nicholas speak directly to readers in the form of annotations, using musical terms like “forte” and “glissando” to indicate voice tones. Nicholas’ voice is so earnest and endearing that readers will root for his success.
My further feelings: Some parents of kids 9-11 think this an in-appropriate book for children in this age bracket. Topics such as abortion, war, gangsters, dead bodies and a child buried in the backyard seem too mature for this age bracket audience. As I read the book, I thought these topics were handled sensitively and was surprised to see so many parents call this book out. I also noticed that adult readers seemed to really enjoy this book.
There are some things that occur in this book that seem to defy believability, but I still enjoyed it.
Miracle at St. Anna is a 2003 American-Italian epic war story. Set primarily in Italy during German-occupied Europe in World War II, the book tells thMiracle at St. Anna is a 2003 American-Italian epic war story. Set primarily in Italy during German-occupied Europe in World War II, the book tells the story of four Buffalo Soldiers of the 92nd Infantry Division who seek refuge in a small Tuscan village, where they form a bond with the residents. The story is presented as a flashback, as one survivor, Hector Negron, reflects upon his experiences in a frame story set in 1980s New York. Several real-life events that occurred during the war, such as the Sant'Anna di Stazzema massacre, are re-enacted, placing Miracle at St. Anna within the genre of historical fiction.
I love James McBride having read his first book/memoir about his mother entitled "The Color of Water" and his National Book Award winner entitled "The Good Lord Bird", about a slave who unites with John Brown in Brown's abolitionist mission. Both tremendous books.
I am sorry to say I do not feel the same about this book. It just never grabbed me the way the others did. Maybe I am just tired of war stories, but tried this anyway because of my respect for McBride's writing.
Ironically, the book was made into a movie in 2008, directed by Spike Lee. From what I have read , it was not very popular or well received.
It is 1989. The place is Colombia. The country is rife with violence and corruption. Some people are rich; more peoA story of a friendship gone wrong.
It is 1989. The place is Colombia. The country is rife with violence and corruption. Some people are rich; more people are poor.
Chula is well off. She has an older sister, Cassandra, a mother Alma, and a mostly absent-from- home Papa, who works for an oil company.
Then there is Petrona. She is the poor one. She comes to the home of the Santiagos to be a housekeeper. Chula and Petrona become friends. But then Chula becomes 'tight' with a revolutionary and events go downhill from there.
The story is mostly told from the POV of seven year old Chula. Petrona, who is older, interjects her thoughts at critical points. I found the voice of a seven year old too simplistic for me. But, of course. She is seven years old. Unfortunately I was not fully engaged until I was at least 75% through the book.
The author is from Colombia and states that the book is based on real events that occurred between 1989 and 1994. The deaths of officials and bomb victims really did happen.
I finished the book so I cannot say it was all bad. Just not one of my tops for the year.
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