For The Love of Word

Kindle Fire

2011-12-03T09:15:00.005-06:00

I am SO in love with my new Kindle Fire!

Yes, that came from me - the one who drug her feet and resisted the Nook, the earlier edition Kindle, and all other e-readers. I did receive the Kindle Wi-Fi for Christmas last year and I did use it. Some. I was still in love with turning that paper page, the smell of print ink, the cushy feel of the paperback. The e-reader was a slim, lightweight option for travel and I began to utilize it.

It was not, however, a replacement. It was a supplement.

Fast forward to the Kindle Fire. WOW! (Shameless plug ahead): Amazon got it right this time! It's 7 portable inches of reading, computing, listening pleasure. I can download my music, stream video, read, surf . . . all the things I want (or need) to do in one portable handheld device.

Better yet? $199! How do you beat that?!?! We're not talking the popular "Brand X" pricing here. The Fire device is uber*affordable for everyone.

There you have it. I don't normally endorse products, but I'm the first to sing the praises of the Kindle Fire. The old fashioned, paper-loving, ink-smelling book reader has officially entered the 21st century of reading.

The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins

2011-12-03T09:00:00.005-06:00

The absent blogger is back . . . To be fair, I have read a few titles the past year: mostly management books, but a few just-for-funs as well. Obviously, nothing ahh-mazing that ended up here.

Then came The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, & The Mockingjay. Best dang books I've read in years, and comparable (remember my rave about this one?) to The Handmaid's Tale.

The setting of these books is a post-revolutionary world where the Capitol hosts annual Hunger Games to remind the citizens of its power. Contestants for the games are drawn from among the citizenship's children, who are then thrown into an arena and made to fight to the death. There can only be one survivor and the victor goes on to live a life of plenty.

Until the year Katniss and Peeta are selected for the games. A handful of berries changes everything.

Be sure to read this trilogy. You will not be disappointed.

I Thought You Were Dead - Pete Nelson

2011-06-05T16:30:00.004-05:00

I hesitated to read this book, mostly because nothing is going to compare to The Art of Dancing in the Rain, and I didn't want to read another Marley & Me or Old Yeller. That said, however, I did pick this book up Memorial Day weekend and read the majority of it in a day - setting it aside and finishing it this afternoon.

Definitely a love story about a man and his dog, though Stella "talks" to her master in this novel - I'll call it telepathy and try not to overthink it. It worked to fill a lazy afternoon and pass a few hours outside on the deck, so I'll give it a B+. It's a decent read, to be fair, but it's not a classic, and it doesn't carry the same emotional sucker punch as those mentioned above. In the end, maybe that's a good thing.

Sh*t My Dad Says - Justin Halpern

2011-06-05T08:32:00.006-05:00

So I'm behind the times ... no big news flash there. I picked this book up at the Salt Lake City airport on my way home last week, and it was the perfect way to while away the time. I literally had to school my facial features and work not to laugh out loud throughout the entire read (158 short pages).

This is not a book for the politically correct or easily offended, and should come with some type of warning label. Think Archie Bunker on steroids. Laced with some very colorful language.

I've never watched this show on television (starring William Shatner and Jonathan Sadowski), but times, they may be a-changin'! If the television series is half as entertaining as the book, I may have a new dvd-viewing experience in my future.

Bottom line? Raw comedy, in its very simplest, most base form. In the brain, out the mouth assessments of life. Happy reading!

The Perfect Woman - James Andrus

2011-06-05T08:13:00.004-05:00

The Perfect Woman was my debut foray into the world of e-readers, having received a Kindle Wi-Fi for Christmas last year. I'm ashamed to report that I'm only now (it is June, is it not?) reporting on the book.

A rather interesting story, in which a socially awkward man, who still lives at home with his ailing mother, is in search of the perfect woman. Perfection is defined as a specific height, weight, coloring, etc., which fit his "scientific experiment." The woman must have scientific value in order to become entangled in the twisted web woven by our sociopathic main character.

Overall, it was an interesting and well-written novel, if not a bit on the predictable side. Would I read it again? Yes. Will it win a Pulitzer? Most likely not.

As for the e-reader, I reluctantly admit that it has a place in my literary world. Make no mistake: it is not a book. I can't smell the ink or turn the individual page. I can't dog-ear a specific passage for easy location later (yes, I can "e"-bookmark passages). What I can do is compact an entire library of reading material into a very small space. Books tend to be less expensive in e-form, but not all reading material is yet available in this format. No doubt, it's only a matter of time. The biggest limitation, in my opinion, is that I have to wait until I'm at 10,000 feet or above to turn the reader on in an airplane, which seems to be the only time I find to read these days. Thus, I find myself carrying a traditional book with me when traveling to maximize the time I can escape between the pages.

With Love and Laughter, John Ritter - Amy Yasbeck

2011-01-08T17:57:00.003-06:00

If you're familiar with 1970s comedy, you know about Three's Company and you either loved or hated John Ritter. I thought he was hilarious. I recall my dad being of the opposite opinion. Either way, Ritter was a pop culture icon, along with Suzanne Somers and Joyce DeWitt. Those characters inhabited our household every week; and,come syndication, every day.

Ritter died unexpectedly in 2003 of an aortic aneurism, having been rushed from the set of his latest sitcom, 8 Simple Rules. From Three's Company to movie appearances to Broadway, he'd found his way back into our living rooms. I looked forward to reading this book about a man who seemed to inhale goofiness and exhale laughter. I didn't know who Amy Yasbeck was (other than being John Ritter's widow, of course), nor did I particularly care. Yes, I admit that sounds harsh.

With Love and Laughter, John Ritter is 26 chapters in length. The first 18 are about the life of Amy Yasbeck, which includes her life with John Ritter; the last 7 are about John Ritter. It is a telling story of a life shared, but not the typical "meet the man" biography I anticipated. I did force myself to read through the Amy Yasbeck story in order to arrive at the John Ritter story, and I'm glad I did. The book ends with a synopsis of a man who lived life to the fullest, who loved comedy, joy, and laughter, and who was obviously adored by many. It took a while to arrive at the story I wanted to read, but I wasn't disappointed when I got there.

The Wednesday Letters - Jason F. Wright

2011-01-02T20:38:00.003-06:00

In much the same vein as The Notebook, Wright brings us a story of a lifelong love. Jack and Laurel Cooper were married for 39 years, and died in one another's arms. When their three grown children converge back at the family's bed and breakfast, they discover boxes upon boxes of letters - letters that their father wrote to their mother - one every Wednesday of their married life. Some were mundane, others more intense. As the children draw comfort from sitting together reading letters, one stops them in their tracks, carrying in its words a powerful and life-altering secret.

Over the course of a week, the siblings not only lose both their parents, but also begin a journey to obtain answers and unravel the mystery. Letter by letter, conversation by conversation, they piece together a picture no one would have imagined.

The first 90% of this novel was well written, read smoothly, and was believable enough. Wright lost all credibility with me a scant seven pages from the end, when he wrapped everything up swiftly, neatly, sparkly-bow included. The ending is entirely too contrived - happily-ever-after at its best - for the secret these siblings discovered only days after the loss of their parents. I was seriously disappointed with the ending, particularly after enjoying the novel so much right up to the last few pages. I hate it when that happens!

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future - Michael J. Fox

2010-12-31T18:58:00.006-06:00

I opened this book with no real expectation as to its contents, and that's probably a good thing. This is Fox's take on his non-traditional path to success - as a high school dropout. Much of what he states in the book is true: It is absolutely possible to educate ourselves through non-traditional means. More specifically, it is critical to remain ever the student as we pass through this life; that we be willing to absorb and to learn at every turn.

Unfortunately, the majority of the book is laced with canned expressions and lighthearted quips, and is a little light on substance. It's not "bad," per se; it's just one of those books that you keep reading in the hopes that you're about to get to the really good part. That is, until the last few pages where he states: "Don't spend a lot of time imagining the worst-case scenario. It rarely goes down as you imagine it will, and if by some fluke it does, you will have lived it twice. When things do go bad, don't run, don't hide. Stick it out, and be scrupulous in facing every part of your fear. Try to be still. It will take time, but you'll find that even the gravest problems are finite - and that your choices are infinite." [Emphasis added.] Huh. Now those, my friends, are words to live by. Simple, sweet, and oh so true.

Try to be still. Or, in the words of a man far more famous, "Be still, and know that I am."

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T07:55:00.003-06:00

Alas, I'm in wonder once again that another year has flown by and I wake up to find Thanksgiving has arrived. My favorite holiday, yet different this year, as Mike and I find ourselves half way across the country, celebrating our blessings without our loved ones for the first time in our lives. We will miss being surrounded by the laughter and smiles of our families, yet still find ourselves grateful to be together and appreciate the wonder of celebrating with one another.

This year has been so difficult for so many. The economy has taken its toll across the nation, and has touched very close to home this year. My heart is filled with compassion for those who find themselves casualties of this recession, though I know that God has a plan; that He is always faithful, and that He is in control. I know many blessings are in store for those who remain faithful and strong in the face of adversity.

I feel blessed beyond measure this year. The Jayman is a happy, healthy (and very spunky) baby boy who blesses all within his presence with laughter and joy. Baby Myah, with her open heart and sweet, gentle nature, is a gift of love, wrapped in pink. God continues to close windows and open doors for my children. When I don my Matriarch glasses, I survey a richness unrivaled by gold or silver. No greater gift exists.

I find my life filled with new people and experiences this year, and am grateful for new opportunities and adventures; I'm extremely thankful for a husband who stands beside me, who encourages me to step outside my comfort zone and take chances.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Lynn

Tuesdays With Morrie - Mitch Albom

2010-11-21T21:39:00.003-06:00

Yes, I know. I'm WAY behind on this one! This book was a huge hit when it was published in 2007. Unfortunately for me, I judged the book by it's (rather bland) cover, and missed out on a truly wonderful reading experience.

Little did I know that this book is a lesson in living from a man who is dying. Little did I know that the man is dying from Lou Gehrig's disease, or ALS. You see, not only is this little book full of tremendous lessons that each of us should absorb and put into practice long before we near the end of our earthly existence, but I also lost a very sweet, very dear aunt to ALS many years ago.

Albom describes the symptoms of ALS so accurately. Unfortunately, it's a horrendous disease that strips it's "host" of even the simplest functions. It steals independence and strips away dignity. It is devastating to the psyche. Morrie, however, found a way to embrace his situation. As the disease progressed and his condition worsened, he embraced life and love and took pleasure in all that truly matters.

I place this little book (and it truly is little) on the must-read list for everyone. Sometimes we all need to take a deep breathe and be reminded of how blessed we are, and how easily we get caught up in the whirlwind of life and take so much for granted. Yes, it's a feel-good book, but it's one with genuine and universal lessons.

What better time than Thanksgiving to read a book like this?

This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection - Carol Burnett

2010-11-21T21:29:00.004-06:00

I must have been in a funny mood lately to read the biographies of Carol Burnett and Steve Martin back-to-back. Burnett is another of my favorite comedians. Remember my mention of disliking Tim Conway and Harvey Korman? Irony of ironies - both were a staple on the Carol Burnett show.

Burnett and Lucille Ball ended up being rather good friends. In fact, Burnett idolized Ball for many years. How funny that I've never been a Lucille Ball fan, but Burnett never fails to make me laugh.

From her humble beginnings to being the first female-led comedy variety show on network TV, Burnett is another rags-to-riches story. She built her own success, but was wise enough to surround herself with smart, funny, trustworthy people upon whom she could rely.

Ever wonder about that tug of her ear at the end of every show? It's in here. Pick up the book and enjoy a feel-good story about a woman who had a dream, who caught a break, and who persevered until that dream became a reality.

Born Standing Up: a comic's life - Steve Martin

2010-11-21T21:07:00.004-06:00

Oh, the sweet, sweet sound of laughter. I love humor, and Steve Martin is quite likely my all-time favorite comedian. Ironically, I recall having a serious dislike for him, Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, and Benny Hill growing up.

Martin started out as a punk kid with a magic show and managed to carve out a unique comedy act based largely on visuals and interaction with his audience. In fact, he was known "in the trenches" for leading his audiences outside to end his act. While it became a bit of a trademark of his early stand-up routine, he actually began this prank because he didn't know how to wind things down and close the show.

When Saturday Night Live came along, Martin became a household name. He'd conquered the panic attacks and paid his dues. SNL introduced us to that "wild and crazy guy" our generation knows so well. Martin rode SNL to the height of comedic fame, along with Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, John Belushi ... until he realized stand up comedy wasn't going to provide him the longevity he desired.

From The Man With Two Brains (one of my favorite old Martin movies) to It's Complicated, and everything in between, Martin continues to dazzle us with his nonsense and, yes, even charm.

If you're a fan, you'll enjoy this book, which maintains a respectful boundary with regard to Martin's private life and fills in the gaps of his "overnight" claim to fame.

Live Like Your Nail Color - Mary Foley

2010-07-18T12:47:00.003-05:00

Several months ago, having experienced a year full of ups and downs, I declared to a friend that I want my life to rich. Replace the adjective as you see fit - meaningful, significant, full, purposeful - the possibilities are endless. Regardless of adjective, it all boils down to living life in the moment. Every one of us needs a place to go to restore ourselves, to feel centered and grounded, to escape the pressures and negativity we face on a daily basis. This is what keeps propelling us toward new opportunities and risks. I suspect that conversation led to her picking up this book and passing it my way.

To quote the infamous Zig Ziglar, "People say motivation doesn't last. Neither does bathing; that's why it's recommended daily."

In Live Like Your Nail Color, Foley has linked nail color to motivation. Yes, nail color. She's taken a simple, 4-step process and related it to the process of refueling your inner "me tank." Her theory is to use the time you spend on your nails for self-exploration and refueling. Essentially she encourages you to choose a nail polish color that speaks to you. If the polish name is boring, rename it! Make your newly painted nails speak to you throughout the day. Let them serve as a flash motivation throughout your day of something that makes you feel good about yourself or something you want to do or change in your life.

This book isn't going to win a Pulitzer, but is a gentle reminder to stop and smell the roses along the way. The message Foley clearly communicates is that motivation is all around us; we can choose the most mundane of things to inspire a positive attitude and motivate us throughout our day. And, of course, that it's OKAY to spend an hour every other week on yourself.

Did I mention that the book comes with a complimentary nail polish? Interestingly, mine was named "I'm not really a supermodel." Gee ... whoddathunkit?

The Lincoln Lawyer - Michael Connelly

2010-07-18T11:58:00.005-05:00

I am so ashamed to admit that I started this books weeks ago, on vacation, in fact, reading a page or two in the wee morning hours, only to be distracted with a few remodel jobs upon our return home. I finally picked it up again and have flown through the remaining pages.

Mickey Haller is a colorful guy. Twice-divorced, with an ex-wife prosecutor and an ex-wife receptionist/legal assistant/girl-Friday, his personal life is no less interesting than his professional one. As a defense attorney, he's seen his share of scumbag clients. The Lincoln Lawyer chronicles his defense of a high-rolling real estate broker accused of attempted murder of a prostitute. It also brings him face-to-face with his greatest fear: an innocent client - though these two issues may or may not be one and the same.

Connelly has penned one of the most intriguing novels I've read in a long time. Many thrillers out today are relatively predictable; I did not, however, see all the twists and turns coming in the pages of The Lincoln Lawyer. Pick it up today and enjoy the ride.

Might As Well Laugh About It Now - Marie Osmond with Marcia Wilkie

2010-04-25T14:54:00.003-05:00

I suspect a healthy sense of humor goes a long way when you're the only sister in a family of nine siblings. It's certainly a quality that shines through in this book.

I'm not particularly a Marie Osmond fan, but something about this book caught my eye. In hindsight, I'm so glad it did. Every chapter made me smile, and several made me absolutely chuckle.

This is not your traditional biography. Rather, each chapter is a short story about some memorable time or event in Osmond's life. Some were happy, some were sad, others were simply challenging. The common link throughout each story, however, is this lady's uncanny ability to laugh at herself, to look for the positive, and to keep her perspective. I am left with the impression that Marie Osmond is a very down-to-earth woman who cherishes family, faith, and fun.

Open the cover to see for yourself. You'll take a trip on the Osmond family tour bus, rescue an 18-hour girdle from an impending tornado, establish the Children's Miracle Network charity, survive a grueling season on Dancing With the Stars, have your eyelids tattooed, lose 40 pounds, raise eight children, survive two divorces, lose beloved parents - all the while finding the silver lining and moving forward. I am amazed and impressed not only with her humor and perspective, but with the sincerity that shines through the pages of this book. If you're looking for a feel-good read, something fun and uplifting, this is the book for you. Enjoy!

The Cheater - Nancy Taylor Rosenberg

2010-03-10T06:05:00.003-06:00

Cheaters beware! Anne is on the loose. Having accidently walked in on her father and another woman, young Anne found herself abandoned along the side of the road in the middle of a snowstorm (yes, it's that far-fetched). She was found clinging to a fencepost, severely frostbitten, a few days later. No one ever responded to the media reports to claim this lost little girl.

To say Anne grew up with "issues" is an understatement. It's clear where Anne's issues stem from, but she is very good at hiding her hatred for men from those around her. In fact, she is well versed in the art of luring men away from their wives for illicit rendezvous in order to wreak her revenge on the cheaters of the world.

Overall, The Cheater was easy enough to read. The main characters were strong enough, but the supporting cast were a bit underdeveloped. It's worth checking out from the library, but not necessarily worth paying full price for at the book store.

Then again, perhaps Anne can give you a tip or two on taking out the trash . . .

The Time of My Life - Patrick Swayze & Lisa Niemi

2010-02-27T21:46:00.004-06:00

Roadhouse, Dirty Dancing, Next of Kin, Ghost. All feel-good pop culture flicks of our generations, and all made popular by Patrick Swayze. I can't say I ever considered Swayze a "great" actor, but certainly he had a swagger and bravado all his own.

I followed Swayze's recent battle with pancreatic cancer through the televised soundbites, and must admit to a twinge of sadness upon first hearing the news. I mean, c'mon ... this was Mr. Roadhouse! He starred with my all time favorite actor, Sam Elliott, in a cult-flick that just had what it took to be a hit at the time. Corny? Sure, absolutely. But who cares? I never expected the greatest literary experience when I watched a Swayze movie. I expected the pretty boy to entertain me.

I admired Swayze's commitment to his wife (evidenced by a 30+ year marriage), as well as his ability to avoid the tabloids and lead a relatively private life. Just stroll through a supermarket checkout aisle, and you know how difficult that must be. I always felt he was a little bit cocky, a little arrogant, if you will, and the book only reinforces that at times. But it's hard not to admire someone who faces pancreatic cancer with the attitude of, "I'll just be damned if this son of a bitch is going to beat me. It's trying to kill me, but I'm going to return the favor."

The Time of My Life is a quick and easy read and would make an excellent airplane book.

High On Arrival - Mackenzie Phillips

2010-02-14T14:09:00.008-06:00

The daughter of John Phillips (The Mamas and the Papas) and famous for her starring role as Julie on the 80s sitcom One Day At A Time, Mackenzie Phillips is the epitome of the rock and roll lifestyle. Raised by a hippie father in a California party-scene culture, young Mack grew up around rock and roll stars and their opiates of choice. It's no wonder that she chose that same path for herself, especially when her own starring role landed her a steady paycheck to pay for her self-indulgent excesses. The true wonder is that she's alive to tell her tale.

High On Arrival is a journey through her life - the drugs, the men, her acting career, the incestual relationship with her father, the rehabs. For all the justifications in her book, the bottom line remains that her father clearly abused his position of trust and authority, which only caused this young woman to spiral further out of control. A few years after the birth of her son, Shane, Phillips did eventually mark 15 years of sobriety, but found herself at rock bottom once more, culminating in her infamous 2008 arrest at LAX.

Today, this woman is again post-rehab and vows to never again become complacent about her addiction or her past. The book is well-written, with the sad ring of truth of a survivor. I wish Ms. Phillips all the luck in the world maintaining her hard-won sobriety.

The HOUSE that Hugh Laurie Built

2010-02-08T08:31:00.004-06:00

House fans will delight in this unauthorized biography of the ever-sarcastic Hugh Laurie. Not only does the author take us back to Laurie's college rowing days and his British stage beginnings, but he also gives us a background peak into the other main characters of the popular TV show.

Overall, this is a very easy and comfortable read, with few surprises. In fact, only the first 100 pages are devoted to the cast bios (including one for creator David Shore), with the remainder of the book being an episode guide for Season One.

INTRODUCING...Creative Event Studio

2010-01-01T07:20:00.009-06:00

Introducing Kansas City’s newest and most artistically organic event design and photography company— Creative Event Studio.

CES is a two-fold company offering unique event designs centered on individual interests and needs along with event photography to capture life’s special moments. Co-owners, Sarah Ebbert and Ginger Weseloh, have experience working both as a vendor and a client on large- and small-scale events, and know the ins and outs of how to plan, execute, and deliver quality events and photos.

What makes Creative Event Studio different?

· They believe each event has the ability to be unique – because there is no one else like you.

· They believe your event revolves around YOU – the client.

· They believe that great events are stress free – let them do the worrying for you!

Check out their new website at www.creativeeventstudio.com to see what they have to offer. While you’re there be sure to become a fan of theirs on facebook!

Mention this ad and receive 10% off of any package!

Ginger Weseloh & Sarah Ebbert
Co-Owners/Operators

Creative Event Studio
www.creativeeventstudio.com

Merry, Merry Christmas, my friends!

2009-12-24T09:01:00.005-06:00

Wishing each of you the most glorious Christmas ever. May you know the wonder of God himself and rejoice in the celebration of His birth. Be safe! Hope you are all able to surround yourselves with those you love the most.

Merry, Merry Christmas!!!

Lynn

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T09:55:00.006-06:00

My favorite time of the year has rolled around once more, and my life has been abundantly blessed this year. Baby Jay has opened an entirely new depth of love inside my heart and turned the tough-ole-gal into a sappy, mushy grandmother of a mess. Baby Myah also made her appearance this year, making me a great-aunt. I am very grateful for those babies and the new opportunities they represent. Mike is enjoying some well-deserved time off this month and the kids are healthy. There are no greater blessings than the loved ones we hold dear.

My job survived the latest round of cuts, and for that I am grateful. The transition is ongoing, and I struggle from time to time, but all things work out in the end. I consider myself lucky to count my co-workers among my friends. No finer people exist.

I am surrounded by wonderful friends. In fact, I've added some new faces to the inner circle over the course of the past year, and there is no doubt in my heart that God has placed each one in my life for a reason, and at the proper time. I love you all and appreciate all you do to enrich my life.

As always, I give thanks to the soldiers and their families, and take a moment to honor our fallen heroes and the loved ones they left behind. So many give so much so that we can join together in fellowship tomorrow.

I wish each of you a holiday season filled with richness. Surround yourselves with those you love the most, enjoy the warm, inviting aromas of Thanksgiving and the gift of laughter in the air. Safe travels and many blessings, my friends!

American Wife - Curtis Sittenfeld

2009-11-22T17:48:00.004-06:00

From a car accident in high school that left a classmate dead to a twisted affair and subsequent abortion, Alice Lindgren was not the most likely candidate to become first lady. Particularly on a Republican ballot. Yet she did eventually fall in love with and marry Charles Blackwell, and supported his eventual runs for governor and President.

This novel revolves around two central plots. First, the love story. Alice and Charlie Blackwell, for all their differences, love one another. While he is a staunch Republican and she is essentially apolitical, though more liberal leaning, they forge a union wherein they can support one another as individuals. Obviously, the second (and central) plot, is the political story. A first lady with a past. One who disagrees with her husband's policy, yet mostly refrains from vocalizing her differing opinions.

Based loosely upon the life of Laura Bush and the administration of George W. Bush, this novel takes place during his term of office and includes the terrorist attacks of 2001 and subsequent war. It is important to remember that this is fiction and that much artistic liberty has been taken by the author.

Overall, American Wife is an enjoyable read, if not a little long at 555 pages. It may have been a lofty goal for me, having not done any serious reading since July!

Oh, how my blog has suffered!

2009-09-29T19:31:00.003-05:00

Summer has always been my favorite season, but something happened 6 weeks ago to make THIS summer exceptional. Ah, yes, the much anticipated arrival of Jay Michael. As you can see from this photo, I've had something other than this blog on my mind.

Hopefully my readers haven't abandoned me completely just yet. Now that cooler weather is around the corner, I fully intend to park my nose firmly inside a good book once again. In the meantime, I ask your forgiveness for my lack of attention and thank you for your patience.

So...what have YOU been reading this summer?

Act Like a Lady Think Like a Man - Steve Harvey

2009-07-13T14:22:00.006-05:00

If you're familiar with Steve Harvey, perhaps you'll expect this to be a comical spin on male-female relationships. At least that's what I thought. I was wrong. Kind of.

Between the front and back covers of this book are Harvey's beliefs as to why women don't receive what they want and need from the men in their lives and why men get by with behaving badly. He breaks the book into three parts: The Mind-Set of a Man, Why Men Do What They Do, and The Playbook: How to Win the Game. Harvey is serious about imparting information and (in his words) empowering women, but he also keeps it light and entertaining. Enough so that I - an old married gal with a misconception from the onset - thoroughly enjoyed the book (and completed it in 2 settings).

That is not to say that I agreed with Harvey 100%. Overall, though, I give the man his due. He doles out responsibility and chastises each gender where appropriate and pulls no punches in separating the boys from the men. If you're over the age of 30, you've witnessed (if not experienced) at least some of Harvey's observations and can appreciate the idiocy and shortcomings of our human nature.

Just for fun

2009-07-12T11:59:00.007-05:00

Play along with me, just for fun. Can you name 10 books that you'll never forget reading? They don't have to be "classics" - just books that you enjoyed so much (or that impressed you in some way) that you'll never forget the experience. Here's my list:

1. Handmaid's Tale
2. Sleepers
3. A Time to Kill
4. Helen Keller
5. The Diary of a Young Girl: Anne Frank
6. The Outsiders
7. Old Yeller
8. Charlotte's Web/Stuart Little
9. Traveling Pants (only because I read them with my daughter)
10. The Shining

It's harder than you think to come up with 10, but can't wait to see yours!

The Art of Racing in the Rain - Garth Stein

2009-07-12T07:31:00.009-05:00

This summer has been particularly busy at my house, and I've had little time to read. To pick this book off the shelf for my return was practically divine intervention.

Meet Enzo, a lab mix, whose master, Denny, is a race car driver. But don't be fooled into thinking Enzo is just an ordinary dog. Far from it. Enzo has the soul of a philosopher and the heart of a racer. He lives within the physical confines of his canine body, yet thinks much like you and I.

Enzo is the one that stands beside Denny as he builds his racing career, as he expands his world to include Eve and baby Zoe, and especially in the aftermath of Eve's death. Not only do Denny and Enzo have their grief to deal with, they are now in the race of their lives - fighting for custody of Zoe and facing a bogus child molestation charge.

This is an incredibly well-written book that made me experience a range of emotions. I laughed, I nearly cried, and I groaned out loud a time or two. In the end, it's the story of a loyal and faithful dog and his absolute love for his master.

If you're not a dog lover, you may find this book a little on the corny side, but I enjoyed every word it. In fact, it was one of those easy reads I found difficult to put aside. In the end, I couldn't help but fall in love with Enzo. Maybe you'll see a little Enzo in your dog.

What's So Amazing About Grace? - Philip Yancey

2009-05-04T13:35:00.006-05:00

A friend and I were talking a while back (each of us having read The Shack), and I made the comment that, personally, I struggled with the concept of grace more than any other spiritual concept. He graciously (no pun intended) suggested I re-read Galatians (I highly recommend Chapters 2 and 3), and gave me this book. I'm not even to the end yet, but it's already been a huge help to me.

I"m not going to explain this book to you. It's no secret I'm of the Christian faith, but I don't want to use this blog as a platform to preach. What I will say is that, if you're like me and struggle with the concept of law vs. grace, this is the book to read. I'll leave you with this thought:

"There is nothing we can do to make God love us more.
There is nothing we can do to make God love us less."

The Chosen One - Carol Lynch Williams

2009-05-04T13:07:00.004-05:00

The Chosen One is the story of Kyra, a teenage girl growing up in a Polygamist sect in Utah. She has one father, three mothers, and give or take 20 siblings. Each mother lives in her own trailer with her own children, and her father travels amongst them.

One day, the Prophet calls upon her family for a visit. This is no small thing. In fact, it requires all the wives and children to be present, dressed in their Sunday best. While most of the family wonders if Father has finally been chosen to serve as an Apostle, Kyra fears that her sins have been discovered by the God Squad and her family is about to be punished severely.

As it turns out, neither is true. Rather, Kyra has been chosen. The Prophet announces that God has revealed to him that Kyra shall become the seventh wife of her 60-year old uncle. At the tender age of 13, this girl is expected to wed her own father's older brother. Kyra is devastated, and her thoughts turn to freedom from the sect.

This book is so well written that I had to remind myself time and again that it was fiction. The author is from Utah, but the book cover says nothing of a Mormon or Polygamist background. Certainly, it appears Ms. Williams has either a vivid imagination or a chilling insight into that lifestyle. I finished this book in a couple of sittings, and found myself cheering for this girl-character with each and every page. Check it out today!

Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelea

2009-04-24T19:04:00.006-05:00

After weeks of eyeballing this cover, I finally picked it up just for the title. Not that I had any idea whatsoever who Chelsea Handler was. In fact, I was halfway through the book when a friend told me Chelsea had her own night time talk show. Ironically, a show that my own husband watches. - It made such perfect sense: this gal has spunk.

From her humble childhood to her own talk show, Chelsea Handler has made her own way in life. And, according to her book, there were plenty of bumps along the way. Personally, I'm still trying to figure out her obsession with midgets...

Having just finished The Shack, this was the perfect book. Definitely more humor than biography. Put on your readers and prepare to laugh.

The Shack - William P. Young

2009-04-12T14:53:00.005-05:00

Imagine taking 3 of your children with you on a family camping trip and returning home with only 2. It's no wonder such an occurrence would propel Mackenzie Phillips into a crisis of faith. While his wife, Nan, remained strong in her faith (even referring to God as "Papa"), Mack lived with The Great Sadness.

One morning, a note arrived in Mack's mailbox telling him that Papa would be at the Shack that weekend. Papa...Nan's Papa? Certainly not his own father. And why would anyone pull such a cruel prank as to even mention the shack where his beloved Missy went missing?

Ultimately, Mack decides to return to the cabin for a weekend. Little does he know that he will come face-to-face with the trinity: God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. I won't give away the unique description of the trinity presented in the book, but suffice it to say it will make you wonder. Over the course of the weekend, Mack enters into true relationship with the trinity and much healing takes place in his life which then overflows into his human relationships when he returns home.

The first 100 or so pages of this novel were a breeze, but I struggled with the remainder. I found myself agreeing wholeheartedly with some of the author's perspectives and disagreeing (sometimes strongly) with yet others. The point is, it made me think. It made me question some of my own preconceived notions and both affirmed and challenged some of my spiritual beliefs. The important thing to take away from this novel is that each of us has a personal and individual relationship with God.

Wishful Drinking - Carrie Fisher

2009-03-28T20:46:00.005-05:00

Long before she became a household name for her portrayal of Princess Leia in Star Wars, Carrie Fisher was a character. Still is, even in her 50s and post-electric shock therapy. Carrie Fisher is bipolar and has undergone EST to regain her memory. This book is that memory. It's also her comedy routine, based on events from her own life.

Even as a child, Fisher separated her "Hollywood" life from her "real" life. She knew she shared her parents, Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, with the rest of the world. She actually charts what she calls the "Hollywood Inbreeding" that involved her own parents: a pictorial of who married who, who divorced who, and who remarried who. Two full pages.

She tells her stories with sarcasm and hilarity, and an uncanny ability to make fun of herself. We hear about her stint in her mother's chorus line at age 15, the gay friend that died on her couch, Star Wars, her alcohol and drug addictions, her marriage and divorce to Paul Simon, the Princess Leia Pez dispenser, and her daughter.

Fisher has gone from a film career to being the author of four novels and is obviously surviving bipolar disorder with the help of medication, family, and a HUGE dose of humor.

The Brass Verdict - Michael Connelly

2009-03-25T06:13:00.009-05:00

Thanks to AJ and Dave for introducing me to Michael Connelly. Last week I had the pleasure of meeting defense attorney Mickey Haller as he returned from a post-rehab 1-year sabbatical. His plans of returning to defense work a little at a time were shattered by the discovery that collegue Jerry Vincent had died - been murdered, actually, leaving his 31 open cases to Haller.

The big case is that of Walter Elliott, who is accused of shooting down his wife and her German lover. The trial is set for 2 weeks out, and Elliott is adamant that there will be no continuance. In order to keep the case, Haller, his case manager Lorna (also his ex-wife), and his investigator Cisco, take the plunge and prepare for trial. Little did they know that this case would lead them into the world of jury tampering, a corrupt judge, and an ongoing FBI investigation.

Did I mention that Haller owns a fleet of Lincoln Town Cars and works out of the backseat? Gotta hand it to him - the guy's got character.

If you're into legal thrillers, you should check this one out.

Clapton the Autobiography - Eric Clapton

2009-03-04T20:05:00.007-06:00

Blues lovers beware - this is a book that will blow you away. The man known worldwide as "Slowhand" has opened up his life and penned a very revealing story of sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll.

Abandoned by his mother, Clapton was raised by his grandparents in south England. That abandonment, emphasized by the fact that his mother went on to marry and have three other children who lived with her, would lay the foundation of insecurity and emotional detachment throughout much of Clapton's adult life.

My best calculation is that he got his first guitar, a used Hoyer, as a pre-teen. His passion for music and desire to play took over from there. Teaching himself to play by ear, he eventually quit school and worked alongside his grandfather, a master carpenter, who he credits for instilling within him the value of hard labor and a strong work ethic.

The book then leads you through Clapton's stints with The Yardbirds, John Mayall, Cream, Blind Faith, and Derek and the Dominos. It details his friendships, his heroin, cocaine, pill and alcohol addictions (and rehab attempts), his love for his best friend George Harrison's wife - which eventually leads to Clapton's own marriage to the woman. It chronicles his touring years, his "lost" years, the affairs, the parties, the egos.

The birth of his son, Conor, in 1986, was a high point in Clapton's life and he finally realized it was time to sober up. He chronicles that struggle and, today, claims 20 years of sobriety. By the end of the book, Clapton is 60-ish, completes a world tour that pretty much kicks his old tail, is married again with children and has established a rehab center in the Caribbean.

It's easy to say that Clapton was a "B-A-D M-A-N," but the book gives us a glimpse of the man who struggled to right his wrongs and eventually defeated his demons. I encourage all music lovers-especially blues fans-to pick this one up today.

Betrayal - John Lescroart

2009-02-04T17:11:00.005-06:00

Have I told ya lately how much I adore Lescroart and his famous character, Dismas Hardy? I haven't read any of Lescroart's works in +/- a year, so this book was, in many ways, like coming home. That said, this novel varied from the author's typical structure.

Evan Scholler is an Army driver assigned to Kuwait. He and his men, however, get rerouted during transport and end up serving civilian Ron Nolan, who works for Allstrong Security. Nolan is all about the untraceable cash payments and will do any job to earn them, including assassinations. Eventually a bad situation goes worse, with Nolan's bad judgment bringing heavy fire down upon Evan and his men, with Evan ending up at Walter Reed with a very serious head injury. Being our hero, however, he does eventually make a full (and somewhat miraculous) recovery.

Every great book has to have a romantic interest, and Tara Wheatley is Evan's. And Ron's. This, in addition to all the hostility brewing between the men from their time in Iraq, eventually culminates in a vicious attack which leaves one man dead, the other on trial for his life. Enter defense attorney Dismas Hardy.

Absolutely worth reading, though true Lescroart fans will miss their beloved Dismas throughout a hefty portion of the novel.

Outside In - Courtney Thorne-Smith

2008-12-27T20:57:00.003-06:00

Kate Keyes-Morgan has it all: an acting career on the hit soap opera Generations, the car, the house, and the husband (Hamilton), also her manager. Unfortunately, Kate realizes too late that she sold her soul to the devil to have this life. She regularly attends therapy with Penelope, a counselor chosen by Hamilton for her belief that a woman's sole mission in life is to create a safe haven for their husbands.

Eventually, Hamilton decides to take on the management of Sapphire Rose, the star of Generations, and, of course, dumps the wife for the doting girlfriend. Sapphire, naturally, is a conniving little tart, and eventually has Kate fired from the show. Kate finally gets mad and takes control of her own life, eventually landing on top.

Granted, the plot has been done before, but Thorne-Smith has written a novel worth reading. The characters are well-developed and believable, as is the dialogue.

It is also worth noting that the author starred as Alison on Melrose Place, Georgia on Ally McBeal, and Cheryl on According to Jim.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-25T09:46:00.003-06:00

Here's wishing you all a very merry Christmas! May you remember the true meaning of the holiday and honor the birth of Christ in your celebrations.

Thanksgiving Wishes

2008-11-26T08:28:00.014-06:00

Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday of the year. It is full of warm sounds, fragrant aromas, rich colors, and the people I hold dearest to my heart. It's the one time of year I truly allow myself to reflect and emote without censorship from the inner critic. As I count my blessings this year, I go beyond the "health, happiness, and family" gratitude.

I am thankful for my new boxer puppy, Brutus, who brings laughter to my life on a daily basis. I am thankful for my new son-in-law, Tom, who joined this crazy family in October. And for my "old" son-in-law, Chris, who blended into our lives so well. I am grateful for my girls - and the fact that, despite my many attempts, God prevented me (and continues to prevent me) from screwing them up too badly. I am thankful to have a home and a job in these challenging economic times, and even more thankful that the rest of my family has the same. I am thankful that I work with a great bunch of people. I am thankful that I have the ability to read and to write this blog. I am thankful to have friends that I could, without a second's hesitation, call at 3:00 a.m. I am grateful to have had the greatest mother-in-law of all time, and still feel that loss deeply. I am even grateful for Mojo, our crabby little (old) dachsund - a loyal and faithful friend, if ever there was one.

I am GRATEFUL that the 2008 election is over and my phone no longer rings nonstop! I am grateful for the men and women who leave their homes and are stationed overseas to promote freedom and democracy for all. I am ever so thankful for the liberties and freedoms I possess as an American. I am thankful to have a husband who values humor, kindness, and family. And I am thankful for my faith and the love of a God who is always present, always powerful, and upon whom I can always rely.

The list goes on and on. What are you grateful for this year? Happy Thanksgiving!

Body Movers: 2 Bodies for the Price of 1 - Stephanie Bond

2008-11-09T15:52:00.003-06:00

Think you've got it bad? Imagine being the pampered 19-year old daughter of a prominent couple who wakes up to find her father indicted for fraud and embezzlement. Needless to say, daddy's reputation tanks, the wealth disappears, and the family moves to a "less-than-stellar" part of town.

But that's not it - oh, far from it! Dad decides to go on the lam and mom decides to join him. Um...except that they leave their 19-year old daughter and 9-year old son behind to fend for themselves. Ouch! Carlotta Wren's dreams of college - and rich fiance' - disappear in a flash as she's left to raise her brother in her deadbeat parents' wake. She does her best, but he turns into a juvenile delinquent anyway, and is arrested by none other than the same detective that nabbed her dad. And charged by the same prosecutor, of course.

From that point forward, it's a tangled web of antics. After 10 years of no contact with her parents, and at the prodding of the local police, Carlotta ends up faking her own death in a ploy to drag her folks out of hiding. You'll have to read it yourself to see how it unravels.

Looks like I grabbed the 2nd in a series of 3 Body Mover books, but it was still a great read, lots of laughs, and well written. I'll definitely be seeking out the 1st and 3rd novel to piece together the entire story.

The Memory Keeper's Daughter - Kim Edwards

2008-10-25T04:12:00.002-05:00

David Henry makes a choice one fateful winter night that forever changes his life. When his wife, Norah, goes into labor, David carefully drives her to his medical clinic. The OB/GYN, however, has slid off in a ditch, leaving David (an orthopedic specialist) and his nurse to perform the difficult delivery. Shifting into professional, clinical mode, Nurse Gill administers gas to Norah as David delivers a beautiful, healthy baby boy. He also then delivers a baby girl, but David takes one look at this child and knows she has Down's Syndrome. In that instant, he passes the female infant, Phoebe, to his nurse and tells her to take the baby to a home for special needs children. He tells his wife that the little girl was born dead. Stunned, Caroline Gill takes the baby, but ends up not being able to leave her at the institution. Instead, she runs off to Pittsburgh with this new infant, and builds a life of her own, raising this Down's Syndrome child.

It's no wonder the marriage, strained by guilt, deceit, and grief, eventually ends. But what happens with Phoebe? Does Norah ever discover that her daughter is alive? Better start reading, folks!

Hiatus Update

2008-09-21T13:46:00.006-05:00

I feel the need to check in, as I've certainly been less than faithful to my readers recently!

To bring you up to speed, puppy training is ongoing, and so far, so good...though Brutus has grown so MUCH this past month and is starting to get a little nosier than mommy likes! Our newest lesson is in setting boundaries, and we've installed a pet fence to protect our little guy from his own curiosity. He is not a fan of the fence...

In addition, my youngest daughter is getting married next week, which has created a whirlwind of activity recently.

I am currently reading The Memory Keeper's Daughter and will be blogging again once I finish. In the meantime, let me hear from you. What have you been reading lately? Any great recommendations for me to check out?

It's Me or the Dog - Victoria Stilwell

2008-08-15T18:02:00.007-05:00

I haven't abandoned you! Quite the opposite, in fact: I've immersed myself in this book and a new puppy.

Perhaps I should preface that by explaining that I recently had to put my beloved German Shepherd down for health reasons. Since that time, I've shamelessly added a new pup to our household. As guilty as I felt for making this move so quickly, puppy kisses have certainly aided in the grieving/healing process.

I am a dog lover. My dad took me to the pound to get my first dog when I was maybe 8 or 9 - a standard size poodle we named Pierre. Pierre was my best friend growing up, and I lost him my senior year of high school at the ripe old age of (our best guess) 15. I've rarely been without a canine companion since.

Currently, I reside with a 9-year old Dacshund (Big Daddy Mojo), a soon-to-be 1-year old Dachshund (our daughter's) (Shakespeare Mini-Mo Wilde), and now our new Boxer puppy, Brutus (full name yet to be determined). Hadn't planned to take on another dog, but was blindsided when I had to put down our Shepherd at such a young age.

So we're back at square one, training a new puppy dog. WHAT was I thinking? Ha! I'd forgotten just how much work was involved. I also realized pretty quickly that Brutus has a stubborn streak... He's a great dog - lots of personality and funny as can be - but he wants to be the alpha leader. Hmm...

Thus, this book. I decided early on that I will be able to control this dog, no matter how large or stubborn he gets, and that he will learn obedience. It's Me or the Dog has been the perfect training manual for me. Brutus is coming around, and I suspect the whole ordeal has been less stressful and more fun for both of us than when I've tackled the project solo in the past. We're learning to communicate. Correction...I'm learning to understand dog communication a little bit better. He may one day rule the roost (like the other canine loves of my life), but he's figuring out, for now at least, that I am the alpha leader around here.

If I can just keep that bluff going . . .

I Am No One You Know - Joyce Carol Oates

2008-07-19T07:26:00.005-05:00

Oates is a power house. She has the keen ability to stun the senses without being overly graphic, and can bend the mind with words. Her writing is descriptive, colorful, and imaginative. With lead-ins such as, "They brought him the skull in a plastic bag, in pieces. Like broken crockery it was," you can't help but wonder what's coming next.

This particular book is a collection of 19 short stories, all fiction. Some end more abruptly than others, and all end with a hook. At the start, I felt a bit abandoned as each story ended, shifting into yet another twist of the human psyche. Mid-book, however, I had developed an appreciation for Oates' craftiness in whetting the appetite in a way that left me yearning for more.

This is not mindless reading, as Oates guides the illusive cerebral carrot throughout the corners of the mind. Mystery buffs will love the classic intrigue weaved into every page; literary minds will thrive on the writing itself.

The New Classics (1983 - 2008) - EW.com

2008-07-12T10:35:00.003-05:00

I stumbled across this list this morning and decided to share it on my blog. How many of these titles have you read? Do you agree with EW's rankings?

I notice Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale is rated No. 16, and am not the least bit surprised it hit the top 25. Personally, I would consider this book to be even higher on the list. However, I've only read 4 of the top 25, so I may have to set a goal to read as many of these books as possible over the course of the next year. Perhaps I'll save that for 2009 since I already have an entire basket full of reading material begging for its turn in my hands.

Anyone out there willing to accept that same challenge so we can debate the merits of the rankings?

I Feel Bad About My Neck - Nora Ephron

2008-06-28T09:18:00.004-05:00

Women at 40, 50, 60 and beyond have been vindicated in Ephron's book about life and aging. We all stand by and watch as the crow's feet multiply, the laugh lines deepen, the waist and hips widen. We fight the process with miracle creams, Botox injections, surgical intervention, diet, exercise, meditation - whatever the craze of the day happens to be, but there's no cure-all for growing older.

I Feel Bad About My Neck is a collection of essays that shed insight and humor on marriage, parenting, and aging in a way both sexes can relate to. In the end, it's all about putting it in perspective and realizing there's so much more to life than our physical appearance.

Unbeknownst to me, Ephron collaborated on such scripts as Bewitched, Hanging Up, You've Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, and When Harry Met Sally (among others). I'll definitely be picking up more of her collections in the future.

In Between The Sheets - Ian McEwan

2008-06-27T14:55:00.005-05:00

Hailed as one of England's "most acclaimed practitioners of literary unease," I don't even know where to begin to blog about this McEwan novel. In Between The Sheets is one of his earliest works (if not his first) and is a collection of short stories, most of which delve further into the seedy underbelly of humanity than I care to ponder. I'm no prude, and have few "delicate sensibilities," but found some of these stories simply twisted. It is Stephen King-esque, only sordid. Freud would have a grand ole time with McEwan.

McEwan is the author of Atonement (a recent motion picture which I have not yet seen), and was highly recommended to me by a friend whose opinion I appreciate. Certainly, he writes with literary flourish not often seen today. With that in mind, I plan to read some of his newer work - perhaps even Atonement - to see if his subject matter has changed any through the years. Ironically, I have another collection of his early works on my bookshelf, but I think I'll take a breather and read something a bit more lighthearted and carefree before attempting to decipher the workings of this man's youthful mind.

Standoff - Sandra Brown

2008-06-23T19:10:00.004-05:00

Sandra Brown has talent. She can craft a legal thriller with a strong romantic subplot that remains central to the overall story without crossing into the forefront. Standoff, however, was a little different. The entire novel read more like something from the teen genre than a true legal thriller.

Reporter Tiel McCoy ends up a hostage in a small town convenience store robbery. The perpetrators are a runaway, pregnant teenage couple. Naturally, the girl goes into labor in the middle of the heist, and the young father finds himself stressed out with events beyond his control. Conveniently, another of the hostages happens to be a former oncologist.

Both local authorities and the FBI become involved in the hostage negotiation and, of course, McCoy's news station maneuvers its way into the exclusive play-by-play. I won't spoil the ending except to say that a second love story develops among the hostages.

Brown writes very well, which happens to be this book's saving grace. The story itself becomes entirely too predictable and unrealistic. This is Brown's first attempt at real time writing, meaning that the entire course of events takes place during the length of time taken to write the book. In this case, that's about 8 to 10 hours, which could account for the lack of depth and development required to make it an absolute page-turner.

I hate to say this about a Sandra Brown novel, but overall, this is another take-it-or-leave-it book.

The Trophy Wives Club - Kristin Billerbeck

2008-06-23T18:48:00.005-05:00

Small town girl meets rich Hollywood producer, falls in love, and signs a ridiculously one-sided prenup. She's a classic blond knockout. He's a classic narcissist. (Sorry guys...) The marriage lasts almost - but not quite - 8 years. Prince Charming teaches the little lady to be the perfect arm decoration. She knows what to wear, where to shop, who to be seen with, how to entertain. Until one inevitable day when Starlet of the Month catches the Prince's eye.

The fairy tale crumbles and Haley Cutler finds herself locked out of her home and abandoned by her "friends." Hence, her road to self-discovery and independence that ultimately lands her in a relationship with her ex-husband's bigshot divorce attorney. Yeah...the same guy that got her to sign the prenup worth $10k per year. (I'm pretty sure that's less than minimum wage.)

This book could've been hilarious and endearing, but fell short in both areas. The main characters were cast in the worst of stereotypical molds, and the peripheral characters appeared to gain trust and places of prominence based upon cliche' and convenience. It was one of those books you continue to read in the hope that it will suddenly get better. Unfortunately, that's simply not the case. The ending is weak and sappy, leaving the reader with a sense of relief that they can check this one off the reading list and move forward.

Double Cross - James Patterson

2008-06-08T10:13:00.003-05:00

This is second Patterson book I've read, the first being 4th of July. It is the story of a former FBI agent who left the field for a quieter life in private practice as a psychologist. He is now being pursued by two psychotics, one of which is a former federal agent as well, and someone that Detective Alex Cross helped put away. It was a steady read, but I felt it never reached any true crescendo of suspense. Even the twists and turns didn't keep me from setting the book aside to do laundry or play with the dog.

Ultimately, the book isn't a complete disappointment, but the characters lacked the depth and definition required to snare my full attention.

Cassandra French's Finishing School for Boys - Eric Garcia

2008-05-28T20:38:00.007-05:00

Another great chick lit, only this one is actually written by a MAN. Whodda thunkit?

Cassandra French, attorney, is fed up with the dating game. In fact, just about the time she's ready to throw in the towel, she has an extraordinary idea: What if there were a finishing school for boys? You know, something to turn all the mama's boys and die-hard bachelors into marriageable material? Outrageous as it sounds, Cassandra does just that. Yep, she turns her basement into a finishing school for three men she considers promising.

There's just one catch - her "students" are held against their will. You can only imagine the antics that French faces, tutoring the unwilling, and keeping a lid on her secret school.

Don't be deterred by the very pink cover - I guarantee you will be entertained by this one.

John Grisham

2008-05-28T20:21:00.007-05:00

I haven't read much of Grisham's work in the past few years. While he is a very talented writer with a smooth command of the English language, my original intent was to cast a negative spin on this blog entry. In retrospect, I felt that wasn't fair or objective. Taking a step back in time (the memory is a dangerous thing!), I remembered the thrill of reading his early novel, A Time to Kill. I devoured that book as if I would never read again, and followed it with several more of his works. And I'm pretty sure I enjoyed every single one, until I reached The Rainmaker. For whatever reason, I lost interest at that novel. Ironically, I have read several since then and enjoyed them as well.

To be fair, Grisham is a master story teller, and I have to give the man his due. His books are easy to read, if not somewhat predictable. A Grisham novel is certainly an easy way to while away a rainy afternoon.

Verdict: Comfortable reading, but a bit on the "cookie-cutter" path for my tastes. On a positive note, there are plenty of Grisham books to choose from. And, who knows, maybe he'll lead you to my favorites, Cornwell and Lescroart, as well.

Annie Freeman's Fabulous Traveling Funeral - Kris Radish

2008-05-28T17:35:00.008-05:00

This book is going to make one heck of a chick flick some day!

Annie Freeman was quite the woman. Part rebel, part pioneer, she's the kind of person who leaves an imprint on everyone she meets. When Annie dies of ovarian cancer at the age of 56, she leaves one last, over-the-top request of her five dearest friends. She asks that they band together for a 10-day, cross-country trip to scatter her ashes in the six places that meant the most to her during her life. And, to make sure they do, she has her ashes delivered to her oldest friend, stuffed inside her favorite pair of sneakers. She also foots the bill.

Thus begins a journey between five women who know each other only through their mutual friend; a journey filled with tears and laughter, and a great deal of wine, that culminates in a bond of friendship and incredible life lessons. The first of it's kind, the "Traveling Funeral" makes its mark as these women go from place to place, all sporting their own pair of Annie's trademark high-top, red canvass tennis shoes and red bandannas in honor of their friend.

Radish has crafted one of the most touching, thoughtful, and hilarious novels I've read in ages. I'll recommend this one to women from all walks of life. It is insightful and inspiring in ways that only women can appreciate, without being overly sappy. We should all be so lucky as to encounter an Annie in our own lives.

I Love Everybody (and other atrocious lies) True Tales of a Loudmouth Girl - Laurie Notaro

2008-05-22T20:12:00.011-05:00

Those of you who know me well can guess exactly why I snagged this book off the shelf. I was looking for a lighthearted, easy read for the plane ride to San Antonio, and this was the perfect fit.

Sarcasm is an art. Some of us use it expertly, others simply can't pull it off. Notaro falls in the expert category. Simply by observing the behaviors of those around her (and, perhaps, mixing in a few of her own irrational fears), this woman churned out 226 pages of comical absurdities.

Half Bridget Jones, half Carrie Bradshaw, with a healthy dose of sarcasm, Notaro showcases the lack of common sense in our world in a manner sure to make you laugh. It's a great rainy-day read and was the perfect diversion as I sat next to Sneezy Man on the first leg of the plane ride.

John Lescroart

2008-04-30T21:42:00.005-05:00

Another of my "go-to" authors, Lescroart drew me in with his style and hooked me with the Dismas Hardy character. I've been a fan for years and continue to follow Lescroart faithfully.

Hardy is a former prosecutor turned defense attorney whose best friend, Abe Glitsky, just happens to be a chief homicide detective. Both are old-fashioned, stand-up guys who still believe in doing the right thing because it's the right thing to do. They are honorable men who, despite their years in law enforcement and the judicial system, still believe in justice.

Lescroart has masterfully crafted a supporting cast of family, friends, co-workers, and professional contacts, yet continues to insert and develop new characters along the way. He is a gifted writer who avoids the cookie cutter syndrome.

Curling up with a Lescroart novel is like donning that favorite pair of jeans at the end of a long day. You just can't go wrong.

Patricia Cornwell

2008-04-30T21:26:00.005-05:00

Cornwell hit the mother lode with the creation of character Kay Scarpetta, forensic pathologist. Readers of legal drama everywhere fell hard and fast. Scarpetta is warm and caring, guarded and detached, knowlegable and professional all at once. She is one of the most well-developed characters in the genre, and readers can't help but admire her.

But Cornwell didn't stop there. She surrounded her main character with a well-developed supporting cast: FBI Special Agent Benton Wesley, Detective Pete Marino, and Scarpetta's computer-genius niece Lucy, also a former FBI agent. Together, this team of highly trained professionals face the most heinous crimes known to man. They are compassionate and dedicated, both individually and as a team. It is an absolutely addictive cast. If you're not reading Cornwell, you're not truly immersed in the legal thriller genre. I recommend all the Scarpetta novels, but suggest you start with the older ones, as Cornwell has created a history between these characters that cannot be fully appreciated by starting with her more recent novels and working backwards.

Cornwell has also ventured away from the Scarpetta story line and, in my humble opinion, failed miserably with Isle of the Dogs. The characters were interesting enough, and the story may have succeeded if not for the talking trout... Don't ask. I consider this the only blemish on Cornwell's otherwise stellar career.

Preacher and the Presidents: Billy Graham in the White House - N. Gibbs, M. Duffy

2008-04-30T15:30:00.009-05:00

This is Graham's account of his relationships with numerous presidents through the years, beginning with Truman and extending onto G. W. Bush. Certainly, no other spiritual leader had so much interaction with the presidents or such unbridled access to the White House.

I am an avid reader, but admit to taking roughly 4 months to finish this book. Graham's memories and stories were interesting, but were delivered in a documentary fashion that simply did not engage me. In that regard, the book failed to live up to my expectations. Personal religious/political opinions aside, however, Graham is one of the most well known and respected spiritual leaders in this country, if not the world, and I felt Gibbs and Duffy seriously failed to do him justice.

Graham himself admits there were times (particularly in his youth) when he sadly blurred or crossed the lines between spiritual leader and political activist, and this book delves into the dynamics of one role upon the other. He makes no secret that he has moderate to conservative leanings and did not agree with each man who held office, but conveys his unshakable belief that, whether or not we agree with our president, he is still the leader of our free world and, by virtue of that reason alone, worthy of our prayers and spiritual support. I'm betting that's a level of spiritual maturity that few of us ever achieve.

Verdict: Interesting content; weak delivery. I'm glad I finished the book, but admit that I struggled to do so.

Personality Plus - Florence Littauer

2008-04-26T13:25:00.009-05:00

For many years, I plowed through life just being me. I never intentionally set out to hurt or offend anyone. Along the way, however, I discovered that I'd unwittingly and unwillingly done just that on more than one occasion. It wasn't that I was being hateful or spiteful or arrogant; I'd simply never considered the logistics of different personalities. I tend to be a rather direct, take-charge kind of gal, and have, at times, been referred to as "brutally honest." Ouch! That doesn't necessarily sound like a compliment . . . but what, exactly, does it mean?

I stumbled across this book during my period of self-exploration, and quickly developed an interest in communication, interpersonal interactions, and relationships. This book breaks personalties into four major categories: perfect melancholy, popular sanguine, peaceful phlegmatics, and powerful cholerics. It includes a personality test/profile designed to help you identify your personality type. I am a choleric, as is my husband (an unusual pairing). Our oldest daughter is a sanguine, and our youngest is mostly choleric; somewhat melancholy. None of which means anything to you, correct?

Aha! Read the book!

I highly recommend this for anyone with an interest in relationships, communication, or leadership. Once you've read it, you'll understand why I (a) started feeling a little sorry for our sanguine (having to adjust to a mostly-choleric household), and (b) learned to tone things down a bit and show my "audience" a bit more consideration. Have fun with it - test all your friends. Happy reading!

Lucky Man - Michael J. Fox

2008-04-26T09:43:00.007-05:00

Most famous for his portrayals of the quirky (and very Republican) Alex P. Keaton (Family Ties), Marty McFly (Back to the Future), and Michael Flaherty (Spin City), Michael J. Fox is definitely one of the comedic icons of my generation. More recently, Fox is most well known as the celebrity face behind Parkinson's disease and the crusade for stem cell research.

Lucky Man is a memoir of Fox's journey to stardom as well as the discovery of his disease. It chronicles his coming to terms with the Parkinson's diagnosis and the subsequent effects it has upon him, his family, and his career. I think Fox himself would consider it fair to say that Parkinson's is responsible for causing a Hollywood party boy to grow up and place value on the important things in life.

Fox is obviously in favor of stem cell research, but the book is not propaganda for the cause. He states his position, but that is not the underlying theme. I recommend the book for anyone with an interest in Fox, Parkinson's, or stem cell research, with the caveat that you may simply have to agree to disagree.

Denim & Diamonds - Elle Robb

2008-04-26T09:00:00.009-05:00

Today I want to introduce you to not only a talented and aspiring young writer, but a dear and personal friend of mine, Elle Robb. Elle has been writing since childhood and made the decision a few years ago to seriously pursue her dream. The result was her debut novel, Denim & Diamonds.

Author Kaitlyn Rice (The Runaway Bridesmaid, The Third Daughter's Wish) credits Robb with "natural dialogue, fun characters and evocative imagery," and Author Cindy Davis (Voice from the Ashes) calls it "a delightful, romantic and fun romp." Who am I to give it a better review than that?

I've had the distinct pleasure of watching Elle diligently hone her craft and grow as a writer, and the absolute privilege of being allowed a sneak peek into some of her current projects. Undoubtedly, she has a promising career before her and will land on the best seller list one day.

A Safe Place - Lorenzo Carcaterro

2008-04-25T14:43:00.008-05:00

I could hardly wait to read another Carcaterra book after Sleepers - even though I approached the second book (a nonfiction account of the author's childhood with an emotionally challenged and physically abusive father) with much caution. I simply wasn't prepared to experience the same raw emotion as I had while reading Sleepers.

I had no problem reading the book, as Carcaterra writes very well. Obviously, he grew up in a rough neighborhood, in a turbulent time, in a generation where men were expected to be "tough" and "in control" - especially in their own homes.

I'm happy to report that A Safe Place did not affect me the way Sleepers did. Perhaps I was more prepared; perhaps I'm simply (and sadly?) more desensitized to the domestic violence described within these pages than I was to the utter horrors described in Sleepers.

I did struggle with one nagging thought upon finishing this book. For a nonfiction account of his childhood, and having first read Sleepers, I found myself confused that there was literally no overlap between the two. In fact, Carcaterra's juvenile incarceration isn't even mentioned in A Safe Place. This may be the result of superb editing, or it may be an uncanny ability to compartmentalize his life experiences. And, if it is compartmentalization on the part of the author, is that a defense mechanism resulting from his experiences?

I walked away from this book a bit disappointed and strangely relieved to be so unaffected. I suppose I expected it to be as impactful as Sleepers. Thankfully, it failed to live up to that expectation.

The Doctor's Wife - Elizabeth Brundage

2008-04-25T14:11:00.008-05:00

Absolutely one of the best novels I almost didn't read. The cover, the name - both screamed "romance novel" to me. For whatever reason, I picked the book off the shelf, flipped to the back cover, and read: "The memory starts here, in my apron pocket, with the gun." I was hooked. I was instantly drawn in by Brundage's style of writing and completely surprised to discover this was her debut novel.

The book is not a typical murder/suspense/thriller. Rather, it follows the life of a relatively "average" family. A family just like yours or mine. One with hopes and dreams, careers, pressures, values, political opinions, and ambitions. Unfortunately, we watch as the marriage unravels, leading the wife into another man's arms while her husband, a physician, devotes more of his free time to volunteer work at an abortion clinic.

I don't want to imply that the book has a political or social agenda, per se, but it certainly makes the reader aware of their value system, as the plot revolves around the central themes of infidelity and abortion. I don't recommend the novel for everyone, as the subject matter requires a certain level of tolerance and open-mindedness. Personally, however, I found it to be a very easy and entertaining read.

Traveling Pants series - Ann Brashares

2008-04-24T14:10:00.008-05:00

My youngest daughter and I read these books together during her high school years. Obviously aimed at the 13 to 18 year old female reader, Brashares pens the story of a close-knit friendship between four adolescent girls. She takes you from their backyards to their summer adventures apart, with a pair of fabulous jeans that magically fit (and flatter) each girl and serve as a shared reminder of their bond, even when they are on separate continents. They live, they love, and they grow, as girls do. It is an adventure of life, love, loss, and the bonds of adolescent friendship that warms the heart and tickles the funny bone.

That said, I must now tell you that this is a 4-book series. We thoroughly enjoyed the first and second books, but found ourselves disappointed in the third. Our consensus was that Brashares was trying too hard in the third summer, and the story lost its impact in favor of a vocabulary that just didn't fit. Jessica did obtain the fourth book to complete her collection, but gave it such a horrible review that I've never been able to make myself read it. [I'll put this on my to-do list; how awful to give you only a partial review!)

As with most books-turned-movies, the big screen portrayal lacked the heart and soul of what made these girls so endearing in print.

Verdict: Every teenage girl should read at least the first and second books in this series. And, if you're brave enough to read it with your daughter, I hope you derive as many laughs as I did with my own.

The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood

2008-04-24T12:57:00.011-05:00

I read this book for a college lit class back in the 90s. Prior to preparing this review, I believed the book to have been written in the 60s, when, in fact, it was first published in 1985. While it is fictitious in nature, today's reader need only open their imagination to feel an eerie sense that such events "could" be possible in present day society.

Imagine waking up one morning, grabbing your keys and jutting out the door to the stark realization that you've been stripped of all civil rights by virtue of being female. That's a relatively accurate account of chapter 1 of this novel, which goes on to illustrate a post-revolution society in which many women fall barren and the young, fertile females become a highly valued commodity for reproduction. The book is told from the perspective of one young woman who is forecefully removed from her family (a husband and young daughter), to discover she has been stripped of her rights to read, work, and hold money or property of her own. She is "recruited" (imprisoned) as a Handmaid and placed in a school for training (brainwashing) on proper behavior, etiquette, and general re-conditioning in the ways of the new world. She will be dressed in the equivalent of a nun's habit and will be schooled to be silent and submissive. As a Handmaid, she will be assigned to some elite married couple of status for the sole purpose of reproduction.

Yes, you heard right. The Handmaid's "assignment," if you will, is to act as breeding stock and produce offspring for barren couples. Literally, the Handmaid will be a third person in the bed of a married couple. Obviously, some of these situations get out of hand, and the Handmaid is the one who suffers the consequences.

As I write this, I feel the need to re-read this story myself. It is truly a classic for its time. I recall feeling not only for the Handmaids and their lost loved ones, but also somewhat for the wives of the men who use the young ladies for reproduction. At the very least, it is thought-provoking, and, at the worst, horrifying to imagine such a total and complete reversal of civil liberties. Definitely a must-read.

Sleepers - Lorenzo Carcaterra

2008-04-24T12:41:00.009-05:00

I remember when this movie came out, starring Kevin Bacon - and that's all I knew about it. I always thought it was some kind of alien/sci-fi flick, which is definitely not my thing. My youngest daughter, Jessica, set my misconceptions straight a few months ago and strongly encouraged me to read the book.

Little did I know that this was the heart-wrenching tale of four friends growing up in Hell's Kitchen, New York, in the midst of the civil rights movement, and their suffering at the hands of an incredibly abusive juvenile system. It is a moving account of a series of life-changing events, which the author claims to be true. A little research reveals that his claims cannot be substantiated, based largely upon the fact that juvenile records are sealed and that the author changed the names when telling his story. Certainly, it's no great stretch of the imagination to believe that at least a large portion of his account rings true - particularly if you have any knowledge or familiarity with the history of the American judicial system.

Either way, this is a well-written, powerful book that evoked within me a range of emotions - not the least of which were horror, disgust, and sadness, ultimately followed by relief to see these boys released from incarceration. Factual or not, I consider this book a must-read for all book lovers.

The Power of the Word

2008-04-13T09:32:00.002-05:00

I am a 42-year old nerd. I not only admit it, I embrace it. With the exception of a couple of adolescent summers of friendly neighborhood softball/football, I don't have an athletic bone in my body. My passion, it seems, has always been the written word.

I love words.

Words are the fundamental building blocks of human communication. From idle chatter to song to multi-million dollar business transactions and foreign policy, the words we choose set the tone for every relationship we build in life. They can be frivolous, heartwarming, or destructive.

Yes, the word is powerful. It allows us to offer comfort to a friend or destroy an enemy with the flick of the tongue. It can evoke laughter or tears, joy or sorrow. It allows us to live vicariously through favorite authors, characters, or songwriters.

I love to read and I love to write. Even in this computer-dependent world, I still prefer the weight of a smooth-writing pen in my hand to the clicking of this keyboard. I still prefer receiving an old-fashioned, handwritten letter from a friend to opening my email. It's personal, thoughtful, even intimate.

I love music. The greatest music of all time isn't about genre, it's about lyrics. I love music that speaks to me. Doesn't matter if it's country, rock, or blues. There's a different musical genre to suit every mood, personality, and occasion. Sometimes we want to be inspired or uplifted; other times we simply want to be entertained. It's not the music that makes that difference, it's the lyrics.

I love books. Second only to my family, books are the love of my life. I can rarely throw one away. To me, throwing away a book is close to a dagger in the heart. (Again, I'm a nerd...) There are many things I'll never do and many places I'll never see in my lifetime, yet a well-written book can transcend time and space. I can get lost in the pages and go anywhere, do anything with the characters of print. I can experience eras of yesteryear or explore the great pyramids of Egypt between the front and back cover of a great book.

I cannot count the number of books I've read in my lifetime. I've sampled it all: general fiction and nonfiction, autobiographies, mystery, history, sci-fi, historical romance, true crime, legal thrillers, self-help, how to guides, poetry, folklore, politics, religion, current events, and literature. I've found something to love in every genre. Truly, the word knows no bounds.

I hope to explore many books in this blog. Perhaps I can recommend some great reading experiences for you, and I hope you'll reciprocate in kind. Together, we can share our love of the written word and travel to places and times we've yet to experience. I hope you enjoy the ride.