Deanna’s Bookshelf 2010
Click here to see my bookshelf for 2012.
Click here to see my bookshelf for 2011.
Deanna’s Star Rating System:
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0 = So bad I couldn’t even finish it
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1 = Not very good, but I finished it; won’t read author again
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2 = Okay, but most likely won’t read the author again
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3 = Average, will probably read one more by author to determine whether or not to read any further books
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4 = Very good, will definitely read author again
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5 = Excellent, will devour everything written by this author
Note to FTC: Unless otherwise specified, all books reviewed here were either borrowed from the library or purchased by me.
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December 28, 2010
Whew, I’ve read a lot more than I realized these past couple of weeks!
Just finished: Lady Oracle, by Margaret Atwood ~ Rated 3.5
I must be truthful here. I love Margaret Atwood, but Lady Oracle may have been too intense a read for me, or it could be that I read it at the wrong time, (you know, the holidays – when everything is stressful). I don’t want to say it wasn’t well-written, because it most certainly was, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had anticipated. I did finally “get into it” at about the midway point, and was pleasantly surprised that she pulled a twist on me I hadn’t figured out, (which is what, in my humble opinion, makes any book “good”), but if you’re going to read Lady Oracle, be sure to have a lot of time on your hands. The story itself is very good, if not a quick read.
Also just finished: Faithless: Tales of Transgression, by Joyce Carol Oates ~ Rated 4.5
A wonderful collection of short stories by the Master of short fiction, Faithless: Tales of Transgression will shock, astound, leave you breathless. And don’t let the title fool you. “Tales of Transgression” does not mean every story is about a cheating spouse. Though I enjoyed every story in this collection, my favorite, by far, was Lover – talk about an action packed story! You don’t want to miss this one!
Also just finished: The Gravedigger’s Daughter, by Joyce Carol Oates ~ Rated 5
The Gravedigger’s Daughter, though very long, is arguably one of Ms. Oates’s best novels, (that I’ve read so far). This one took me forever to read – 2 weeks! – but it was so well worth it. In essence The Gravedigger’s Daughter is more like two books, (it does have three parts), and, although the first part flows seamlessly with the second, it still feels like two different voices. Why? Because the first part is the story of a young girl, a gravedigger’s daughter, and the second part is of that same girl, but in the second part of her life. Who of us have not felt that the way we grew up is completely different from the way we live now? Who has not wondered if that little person we remember climbing walls and walking miles and miles through muddy creek banks is truly us? Please tell me it’s not just me! In The Gravedigger’s Daughter Ms. Oates gives us the life of this girl/woman in absolute astounding honesty, with grit and integrity at once. A Must Read!
Also just finished: The Fabulous Beasts: Poems, by Joyce Carol Oates ~ Rated 4
The Fabulous Beasts: Poems is nothing short of Stunning. I don’t read poetry often, so when I do I try to make sure it’s by an author I already admire and revere and I admire and revere Joyce Carol Oates, (in case you hadn’t noticed). These poems are so very inspiring! I suggest all writers read The Fabulous Beasts: Poems, especially if you’re feeling “stuck”.
Currently reading: My Sister, My Love, by Joyce Carol Oates
Still reading: Last Days: Stories, © 1985 (out of print) by Joyce Carol Oates *Should be finished with this one soon.
Next up: We Were the Mulvaneys, by Joyce Carol Oates
Next up: Them, by Joyce Carol Oates
Confession: We Were the Mulvaneys and Them was a Christmas gift to myself. I’m not sure yet which of these I’ll read first.
The review of these books will be the first on my bookshelf for 2011, (new page coming since this one is so packed). I hope you’ll stop in and join the discussion, and please feel free to discuss any books you’re reading, *barring all spoilers. If you’re anything like me you tend to panic if there are less than four books in your ‘to be read’ pile!` :)
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December 12, 2010
Gracious! I can’t believe I let more than a week pass without updating my bookshelf. Please forgive me – it’s the time of year, the holidays always make me crazy. Right then, now on with the reviews:
Just finished: Moonlight Mile by Dennis Lehane - Rated 5
Per usual, Mr. Lehane gives us a page-turner we can’t put down with Moonlight Mile. It’s been more than a decade since we’ve heard from private investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro. Those who have followed their exciting, dangerous lives will not want to miss this superbly thrilling sequel to Gone, Baby, Gone. [If you’ve not read this excellent series, start now, with Sacred. Even “non-readers” will fly through this ride in no time.] Not only do we get twist after twist of non-stop action, (starting with chapter 1), but we come to know Patrick and Angie more intimately than ever before, and Mr. Lehane gives us a bittersweet surprise. Thank you Mr. Lehane for showing us the lives of what could be the most true-to-life characters I’ve ever read.
Also just finished: High Lonesome: Selected Stories, 1966 – 2006, by Joyce Carol Oates
Joyce Carol Oates is one of the most gifted, talented writers of our time, period. She writes with an honesty, with grit that I’ve seen in very few authors since the time of O’Conner, Welty, Hemingway, and the like. My review of High Lonesome could read basically the same as Female of the Species (see below). Every story I read is simply masterful. [P.S. I want to be Joyce Carol Oates if I grow up.]
Also just finished: River Angel, by A. Manette Ansay - Rated 4.5
I actually finished River Angel last month, but missed including it here. If you enjoy a touching story full of vivid characters, then River Angel is for you, but only if you don’t mind crying. River Angel explores the deep crevices in the depths of our human compassion, and I wouldn’t doubt it could turn some readers’ lives upside down, for the better.
Also just finished: Midnight Champagne, by A. Manette Ansay – Rated 4
Though not her best, Midnight Champagne is still an enjoyable read, and another Kleenex must. We follow the entire family through a wedding ceremony, (in the beginning it can be difficult to keep up with who’s who), and for a while you’ll be laughing, until you see the underlying cause of that laughter, and then….well, hence the Kleenex rule.
Still reading: Lady Oracle, by Margaret Atwood. Although Lady Oracle started out as an intriguing promise, it dragged down towards the middle, and is taking me entirely too long to finish. I just reached the last ¼ and the pace has picked back up, thankfully, but I’m honestly surprised it isn’t as exciting as I expected, considering I enjoy Ms. Atwood’s work so much. Ah well, we can’t love them all.
After Lady Oracle I will once again try to take a break from reading, (to ensure my family has wrapped gifts for Christmas), but I don’t doubt I’ll at least read a short story (or 17) before year’s end. I look forward to building a new book shelf for 2011 ~ Happy Reading!
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December 3, 2010
Just finished: Don’t Sing at the Table ~ Life Lesson’s From My Grandmothers, by Adriana Trigiani ~ Rated 5+. Click here to read my review of this masterpiece.
Reviews of other recently finished books coming soon!
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November 27, 2010
Just finished: Gone Baby, Gone, by Dennis Lehane - Rated 5
The prelude to Mr. Lehane’s latest release, Moonlight Mile , Gone, Baby, Gone is such an exciting thriller I couldn’t put it down, despite the fact I’d had hardly any sleep in days. Because it is so well written, there are parts that were difficult to read; the reality of child pornography and what it does to everyone trying to help these children, (not to mention the children themselves), is haunting, to say the least. I’d had Gone, Baby, Gone on my reading list for quite some time, but was almost afraid to read it, due to that horrendous subject of the most extreme case(s) of child abuse, but knowing I have to read Moonlight Mile, (because I’m hooked on Mr. Lehane’s work), and knowing it’s a follow-up of sorts to Gone, Baby, Gone, I finally gave in and read it. I’m so glad I did. Though, like I said, difficult to read at times, it is so very well written – all writers should read this book if for no other reason than studying pace.
Also just finished: Too Much Happiness, Stories, by Alice Munroe ~ Rating – 5
Three words: Oh. My. God. You don’t want to miss this masterpiece collection of short stories by one of our time’s greatest authors, Alice Munroe. Among my favorites – Fiction, and especially Free Radicals. I enjoy short stories almost more than novels, in fact sometimes definitely more than novels, and it’s collections such as Too Much Happiness that reminds me of that fact.
Also just finished: The Female of the Species: Tales of Mystery and Suspense, by Joyce Carol Oates – Rating – 5
If you’ve ever read Joyce Carol Oates, then you know that feeling of shock and awe, how you often find your mouth hanging open when you reach the climax of the story. The Female of the Species, a collection of short stories that shows us the darker side of women, is one of the best examples of that feeling. The way Ms. Oates weaves words is nothing short of astonishing. What I appreciate most is how she can take so few words and string them together to mean so much. Listen:
From So Help Me God: “This pelting rain! The kind of rain that hammers at your head like unwanted thoughts.” From The Banshee: “Music booming so loud you almost couldn’t hear it.” From Angel of Mercy: “Is it only those whom we see, who exist?”
This is how I want to write, thus why I read Joyce Carol Oates so much. Which leads us to….
Currently reading: High Lonesome: Selected Stories, 1966 – 2006, by Joyce Carol Oates
There are several in this collection that I’ve read in previous publications and loved, including what is arguably her most famous short: Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been? If you’re a writer looking to study tension, pace, suspense, etc, look no further.
Also currently reading: Lady Oracle, by Margaret Atwood. You may know that Margaret Atwood is another favorite author. I’m about ¼ into this novel and am enjoying just as much as I thought I would. Review of both these books coming soon!
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November 15, 2010
Just finished: Blue Water, by A. Manette Ansay – Rated 4
The first thing you must know before reading this book is to have tissue available. Blue Water is an absolute heartbreaking story, even in its incredible voice of redemption and forgiveness. The story itself gets a 5 star rating from me – it’s everything a story should be when delving into the lives of each character. Ms. Ansay shows us that we all have flaws that are just as large, if not larger, than our good ethics. The only reason I rated the book 4 instead of 5 here is because of the change in POV throughout; although I enjoyed that because it gave me the chance to know how each character feels, those changes come often and without warning of any kind, making it rather jarring. You must be Fully Awake and pay attention when reading. If you can do that, then you’ll be reading a masterpiece of emotion.
I started reading Child 44, by Tom Rob Smith last week, but was quickly confused. There are a lot of characters, making the story difficult to follow. I do believe I’ll enjoy it, when I have time to dedicate my entire mind to the reading, but I’m putting this one aside for now until I do have that time.
Currently reading: Too Much Happiness, a collection of shorts by Alice Munroe ~ Review coming soon!
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November 9, 2010
Yes, I know – I’m not supposed to be reading anything right now; I’m only supposed to be working on my novel. But you all that know me know I absolutely cannot go even half a day without reading something. Yes, I am addicted. That said, here’s what I’ve read lately:
Just finished: The Balm of the Gilead Tree, by Robert Morgan – Rated 4
I discovered Robert Morgan years ago when our local library celebrated his novel Gap Creek and was enthralled. Mr. Morgan writes from the point of view of the people of the Appalachian Mountains, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more honest account of these folks’ lives. Rich with not only the history of these wonderful people but the depth of their psych, all Mr. Morgan’s works [that I’ve read thus far] are some of the most moving I’ve ever encountered. The Balm of the Gilead Tree, a collection of short stories, was, at times, difficult to read, not because the stories aren’t written well, but because they are written so well I felt like I was sitting at the kitchen table having a cup of coffee with the narrators. They’ve all lived a rough life, and though most of them survived that life they did so for a high price. Be sure to have tissue handy when reading this incredibly poignant book.
Also just finished: Mrs. Darcy and The Blue-eyed Stranger, by Lee Smith – Rated 5
You’ve probably figured out by now that I love Lee Smith’s stories. Mrs. Darcy and The Blue-eyed Stranger, a collection of short stories, is no exception. Once again Ms. Smith weaves incredibly touching, and often hilarious, stories of Appalachian folks, all faced with the shock of their mortality in one way or another, and all learning valuable life lessons along the way. For a thought-provoking read, don’t miss Mrs. Darcy and The Blue-eyed Stranger!
Also just finished: Vinegar Hill, by A. Manette Ansay – Rated 5
Considering A. Manette Ansay has been around for some time, I’m quite surprised that I only just discovered her. Now that I’ve read Vinegar Hill, I’ll be reading everything else she’s published. Vinegar Hill was an Oprah Book Club selection years ago, and knowing Oprah’s tastes, I’m not at all surprised. I don’t believe I’ve ever read a book so chock full of family secrets, of abuse and the many effects it has on each and every family member. Incredibly well written, Vinegar Hill explores the lives of a young family – mother, father, daughter and son – indebted to the father’s parents for granting them shelter when they’re completely broke and down on their luck. Soon enough though they discover the absurd torture of their living arrangements and must decide what to do, where to go. While Vinegar Hill is an excellent read, I advise caution if you’ve lived with any sort of abuse in your family for this story will certainly bring the memories flooding in.
Currently reading: Child 44, by Tom Rob Smith ~ review coming soon!
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October 26, 2010
Just finished: Oral History, by Lee Smith - Rated 5
When I was about halfway through Oral History, I said it was “an immediate classic”. I was right. This story is rich, rich, rich with, well, history – the history of my cherished Appalachian mountains and their people. And we get a ghost story too! If you’re a writer looking to study dialect in dialogue, look no further. Indeed, you could learn all there is to know about “how to write” by reading Oral History. This is one I know will be on the “classics” bookshelf, and most likely in schools across the nation, three hundred years from now.
Just finished: Prayers for Rain by Dennis LeHane Rated 4.75
Another exciting chapter in the consistently dangerous lives of PIs Patrick Kenzie and Angela Genarro, Prayers for Rain will grip you from the start and not let go. This is one of those few books that made me want to turn the page fast and furiously. Dennis LeHane is the master of suspense so if you’re a writer looking to learn how to master that element yourself, look no further.
Currently reading: my novel – Intersection – notes and interviews. Once again I am going to try not to pick up a book while I work on my novel for at least the next six months. Hmmm, Deanna not read for six months? Ha! Wish me luck!
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October 10, 2010
Just finished: News of the Spirit – Rated 4.5, and Me and My Baby View the Eclipse, by Lee Smith – Rated 4
Lee Smith has the perfected talent of storytelling that I envy. Her characters are so very real I feel as if I’m sitting at the supper table with beans and cornbread and sweet tea, (you probably need to be from the south to appreciate that), just listening to these people tell their stories. They’re sad stories, funny stories, downright heart-wrenching stories.
Both News of the Spirit and Me and My Baby View the Eclipse are short story collections. My favorite, in Me and My Baby View the Eclipse, is Tongues of Fire. Never have I heard so much honesty come pouring forth from a character, (from a real person for that matter). It’s difficult to choose a favorite from News of the Spirit – it’s a tie between The Happy Memories Club, about an older woman reliving her memories by writing stories, and Live Bottomless about a young girl trying to find her identity while her parents try to fix their marriage in the exotic town of Key West. You must read these stories!
Currently reading: Oral History an immediate classic, by Lee Smith – I can’t help myself. I had read many of Lee’s books a while ago, but recently discovered I’d missed several, so am trying to catch up. If not for having to *gasp* work, I’d have them all finished by now. I’m about halfway through and am completely enthralled. Stay tuned for the review!
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September 28, 2010
Just finished: Eye of The Needle, by Ken Follett - Rating – 5+
For a thrilling roller coaster ride, read Eye of The Needle. This spy novel taught me one of the greatest lessons of writing suspense – slow it down. Mr. Follett describes each move his characters make so clearly, in such meticulous detail, you can’t wait to get to the next sentence to find out what will happen. He leads you down this trail of suspense, then immediately cuts to the chase and shows you what all that description has led to. More importantly, once that action is told, he moves directly to another person’s or group’s view, which only makes you read that much faster because you can’t wait to get back to the previous scene to discover the consequences. Meanwhile, you’re forced to pay attention to the current scene, because it’s written in exactly the same way. In essence, not one word is wasted. Each one leaves you wanting to know what the next one will be – the epitome of suspense.
Now I just need to learn to write that way.
Currently reading: The Long Night of Winchell Dear, by Robert James Waller. Review coming soon!
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September 25, 2010
Just finished: Strangers on a Train, by Patricia Highsmith – Rating – 4.5
Yet another classic that I can’t believe it took me this long to discover. As much as I love Alfred Hitchcock, you’d think I’d know about Strangers on a Train, if not Ms. Highsmith’s book, at least the Hitchcock movie. Now that I’ve read the book, I MUST see the movie. Strangers on a Train is one of the best, if not the best, psychological thrillers I’ve ever read. There is so much psychological warfare going on throughout, for a while I thought one of the two strangers may have been the other one’s alternate personality. But no, it’s eerier than that. The mind games played out will leave you with chills for some time. Get it now!
Currently reading: Not sure yet; going to library today with list of 7 but won’t decide on where to start until this evening. Rest assured a review is coming soon!
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September 18, 2010
Just finished: The Story Sisters, by Alice Hoffman – Rating – 4
If The Story Sisters had been the first of Ms. Hoffman’s books I’d read, it would’ve received a higher rating than 4. I simply enjoyed others by her a lot more than I did this one. That said, The Story Sisters is a fantastic read. Alice Hoffman has a knack for getting at the heart of a character with the simplest of language, (if you aren’t a writer – this is a high compliment; that’s not something easy to accomplish). Just listen to the beauty (or horror) in these sentences:
“Some words drew blood, they cut your tongue, they made you know things you couldn’t unknow.”
“Shards from the vase were threaded through her hair, where they shimmered like beads of ice in a thin trail of blood.”
You could read The Story Sisters for the language alone, but the story itself is a psychological masterpiece. There aren’t many people, writers or not, who can understand the agony of young girls’ hearts, much less describe that agony so deeply. I definitely recommend The Story Sisters.
Currently reading: Strangers on a Train, by Patricia Highsmith ~ I wish I could recall who this recommendation came from. I’m only on chapter two and am already enthralled. Review coming soon!
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September 12, 2010
Read my review of Laura Eno’s Prophecy Moon on The Other Side of Deanna here.
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September 10, 2010
Just finished: The Brightest Star in the Sky, by Marian Keyes ~ Rating – 5
As expected, Marian takes us on another joyous and hilarious ride. Chock full of her trademark quirky characters, The Brightest Star in the Sky will have you absolutely cracking up. If you’re a writer, I highly recommend studying Marian’s work, especially for description. The scenes she cooks up are so vividly portrayed you feel like you’re right there with the characters. Even better, I thought I knew who the narrator was throughout, until I reached the final, highly climatic pages when Marian reveals a much more imaginative concept than I had imagined. For great laughs, and a big heart squeeze finale, you must read The Brightest Star in the Sky.
Currently reading: The Story Sisters, by Alice Hoffman ~ Review coming soon!
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September 5, 2010
Just finished: The Fixer Upper, by Mary Kay Andrews - Rating – 4.75
After all the “heavy” books I’ve read lately, The Fixer Upper was just the up-lifter I needed. True to her roots, Mary Kay once again delivers a hilarious story with enough of a heart-tug to bring a touch of tears without leaving you bawling. How could you not fall in love with a woman named Dempsey Killebrew? The poor girl! But her name is the least of her troubles. Dempsey faces not only her name being slandered by disgusting politicians, but also a run-down mansion that has become her project (like it or not), a cranky old woman who’s taken up squatter rights in said mansion, a demanding father, a loony mother, and a town full of gossips who knows her business better than she does. You can’t help but feel empathy for Dempsey, to root her on as if she’s sitting at 4th and goal with no team. For great laughs and that just right heart-tug, read The Fixer Upper asap!
Currently reading: The Brightest Star in the Sky, by Marian Keyes I absolutely adore Marian Keyes’s work, so, though I’ve read only the first few chapters thus far, I know this one will be at least a 4, most likely better. Review coming soon!
Confession: I’ve tried starting Three Junes, by Julia Glass three times now and just cannot seem to get into it. Granted, I’ve been quite tired each time I tried, so, (because I’ve heard such great things about it), I will give this one another go after I finish my current list, which is at four more books.
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August 24, 2010
Just finished: In This Way I Was Saved byBrian DeLeeuw - Rating – 5+
Wow, wow, wow…those are the only words coming to me at the moment. What an amazingly creepy, surreal and better than well written book In This Way I Was Saved is! I’m not sure if I’m more stunned by the story itself or by the fact that this is a DEBUT novel. It reads as if written by a seasoned veteran. Granted, Brian DeLeeuw worked as an editor for quite some time, so I’m sure he’s read enough crap in his life to confidently walk away with that all-too-familiar feeling among writers – I can do better than this – but still, there are select few who can actually accomplish such a feat.
I’ve said before that a book must throw me for a loop with a twist ending in order to receive a 5-star rating. Well, after reading the first few pages, I thought to myself, “Dang-it, I know what’s going to happen, there will be no surprises, blah, blah, blah”, but the writing was so perfect I couldn’t just stop reading. And I’m so glad I didn’t. After that initial “give in”, if you will, I decided to sit back and enjoy the ride. By the time I reached part 2, I was glad I hadn’t chucked this book. Chock full of original descriptions, and eeriness worthy of Alfred Hitchcock, In This Way I Was Saved is exactly that – a ride; more than that, a thrilling roller-coaster ride. Though I felt certain I knew how the book would end, I couldn’t put it down for the life of me. And then, BAM! The ending shocked me anyway, setting my reader’s heart aflame. You can bet your life that I’ll be reading every book Mr. DeLeeuw publishes, and I suggest you do too.
Currently reading: Three Junes, by Julia Glass ~ review coming soon!
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August 23, 2010
Just finished: Abide With Me, by Elizabeth Strout - Rating – 3.75
Have you ever read a book so profound as to bring you to tears? That’s what Elizabeth Strout’s Abide With Me did to me. The only reason this book didn’t rate more than 3.75 was because the first half was difficult to get into, possibly because there are so many characters I kept getting them confused. [However, to be fair, that could be due to my tiredness.] Once I got the characters straightened out though, I couldn’t put Abide With Me down. I have never felt more empathy for a character than I did the protagonist, pastor Tyler Caskey. I first thought I was crying for him, for all the pain and suffering he had to endure, but soon a childhood memory came bounding through my mind, and I knew the real reason for my tears. I find it amazing that a book can do that. As much as I want to tamp this memory down, I know I need to face it, to deal with it, in order to get on with that aspect of my life. Enough said! Be sure you have tissue ready when reading Abide With Me, for I know you’ll feel that same empathy for Tyler Caskey that I did, whether the story itself brings about memories for you or not.
Also just finished: When You Reach Me, byRebecca Stead – Rating 4.5.
This is a YA book that I recommend all writers read for a study in building suspense, as well as foreshadowing. When You Reach Me is a quick and fascinating read, told from the POV of 12-year-old Miranda who must figure out what the secret notes she’s receiving from who she believes is a stranger mean and what to do about it. Although I did figure out the ending, I was still surprised by a couple of elements I hadn’t even thought of. When You Reach Me is a must read!
Currently reading: In This Way I Was Saved, by Brian DeLeeuw. I sure hope this one surprises me. By page three I was fairly certain I had it figured out. I’ll let you know if I’m right, (of course I hope I’m not as a book has to shock me in the end to be considered good).
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August 15, 2010
Just finished: Amy and Isabelle, by Elizabeth Strout - Rating – 5
Of course because I enjoyed Olive Kitteridge so much, I am now devouring all of Elizabeth Strout’s works. Amy and Isabelle is her first novel, and wow, what a debut! If you’re a writer, there’s no better study in tension than Amy and Isabelle. Not only that, but the dialogue, narrative - everything, is astoundingly, vividly real. And, it’s packed full of suspense and surprise, which, to me, makes the perfect read.
Currently reading: If you’ve already checked out Ms. Strout’s site, you probably know – the follow-up of sorts to Amy and Isabelle – Abide With Me. I’m already certain I’ll love this one too.
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August 7, 2010
Just finished: The Crying Tree, by Naseem Rakha - Rating – 4.
I had a difficult time rating this book. As long as you don’t read the jacket, it’s very good, although, as a writer, there were many passages I felt didn’t belong. For instance, at the beginning of a few chapters Ms. Rakha tells us about what’s coming, rather than just tells the story. That’s the very reason you shouldn’t read the jacket – it gives so much away that I had the twist figured out before reading the first word of the book. I had hoped I was wrong, simply because I enjoy being surprised – that’s what makes any book good, in my opinion. But no, I was right. There are also many passages that (I believe) are supposed to be foreshadowing, yet it comes out more as “here’s what’s going to happen next”. Foreshadowing should be little clues that the reader barely notices. Then, when they reach the end of the book they think, “how did I miss that?”: the surprise element. But in The Crying Tree, you don’t wonder at all how you missed it, because the clues are impossible to miss.
It could be that I notice these things more as I learn more about “how to write a novel”, but I don’t think so. I believe the “general reader” (someone who reads and doesn’t write) will pick up on those clues just as easily as I did. Do read The Crying Tree, because it is a great story, but remember not to read the jacket before starting.
Currently reading: Selected Poems of Carl Sandburg. I can tell you right now that I’ll enjoy this, (I’ve already transcribed a few of the poems), because I’ve always loved Carl Sandburg. I’m keeping my reading light for the next few weeks due to the boys going back to school next week, football practice starting, all that mommy stuff. 
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August 3, 2010
I just finished one of the best books I’ve ever read. Check out my review of Olive Kitteridge, by Elizabeth Strout here. Rating – 5+
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, by John Berendt was a great story – Rating – 4, but the movie, I’m sorry to say, was highly disappointing.
On our trip to Tybee Island and Savannah, my husband bought the book Haunted Savannah, by James Caskey for me, which tells of a multitude of paranormal happenings in one of the most haunted cities in America: Savannah, GA. A wonderfully entertaining read, though I didn’t care for Mr. Caskey’s writing style, (he referred to himself as “this author” throughout, rather than “I” or “me”). Still, you’ll want to read Haunted Savannah, especially if you’re planning a visit to the area.
Currently reading: I’m not sure yet – I have so many to choose from right now I’m having difficulty deciding, so check back soon. I’m sure I’ll have chosen something within the next 12 hours.
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July 12, 2010
Just finished: Brother Odd, by Dean Koontz – Rating 3. Yes, I know I’m not supposed to be reading right now, but I just couldn’t stand it. I absolutely have to read myself to sleep every night. Surprisingly, Brother Odd was quite helpful in that respect. I have always enjoyed Dean Koontz’s work, and really liked Odd Thomas a lot, so I was certain I’d like Brother Odd, the third in the series, just as much. But it was so boring. The only thing I liked about it was a few descriptions and a couple of quotes. That’s it, nothing more. In an effort to redeem Mr. Koontz, my favorite of his thus far has been Life Expectancy. Now that was an edge-of-your-seat story!
Also just finished: An Egg on Three Sticks, by Jackie Moyer Fischer – Rating 5. This is the second time I’ve read this book, it’s that good. Told from the POV of a 13-year-old girl, An Egg on Three Sticks is a fascinating exploration of what goes through a young girl’s heart and mind when her mother is as fragile as, well, an egg. Ms. Fischer has the voice, the emotions, the attitude, everything about an angst-ridden teenage girl, downpat, not to mention the condition of a middle aged woman suffering Bipolar Disorder. This is a must read!
And now? Yes, I’m still reading…..Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, by John Berendt. I remember when this movie came out and I remember thinking “I have got to see that”, but somehow I never did. Now that we’ll be visiting Savannah soon, (where the story is set), I felt it was almost a necessity to read the book and see the movie. I started the book yesterday and am already almost at the halfway mark. It’s that good. I plan on buying the movie, if I can find it, to watch either on the trip down or once we get there. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if I finish the book in the next couple of days, so stay tuned!
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June 15, 2010
Just finished: The last in the Percy Jackson Series, The Last Olympian, by Rick Riordan - Rating 5. Every YA author should read this series to know how it’s done. I enjoyed each book in the series, but The Last Olympian was by far the best. Even if you don’t write YA, (but do write in other genres), I recommend studying these books. Rick’s use of foreshadowing – subtle, but with enough clues to make the young reader think – is outstanding. The Last Olympian has just the right balance of action, drama and comedy, making for a fantastic read.
Currently reading: Nothing! I am going to do my best to take a break from reading for a few weeks, (with the exception of #fridayflash and articles). It will be a miracle if I can keep my nose out of a book, but between the kids being out of school, and trying to make sure everything at work is caught up before we go on vacation, there’s little time left, and I should spend that time writing. Wish me luck!
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June 9, 2010
Just finished: Sacred, by Dennis Lehane – Rating 3.25. Sacred is the third book about PIs Patrick Kenzie and Angie Gennaro. [Read my thoughts on the book when I was about 2/3 through below.] At that point, the story was promising, but, unfortunately, I was surprised the rest of the book didn’t hold up for me. I mentioned in another review of these characters that it was refreshing to read about two PIs who didn’t act like most PIs you read about. That wasn’t the case with Sacred. Towards the end it became more and more confusing, and though it was packed with action, there were many scenes that were too fantastical for me, that I didn’t feel could really happen. If I’m reading a science fiction or fantasy novel, (which is rare), I expect those unrealistic moments, but when I’m reading what is supposed to be a crime drama, and these wild elements emerge, I’m left disappointed. Sacred did that for me.
Currently reading: The last in the Percy Jackson Series, The Last Olympian, by Rick Riordan. I’ve only read the first two chapters thus far, but this story seems just as promising, if not more so, than the first four books of the Percy Jackson Series. Considering my disappointment with Sacred though, I believe I’d better wait until I finish this one before writing a review. It shouldn’t take me long, (barring family emergencies like making cupcakes for parties), so stay tuned!
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June 5, 2010
Just finished: A Drink Before the War, by Dennis Lehane - Rating – 4.25 – A Drink Before the War was Dennis Lehane’s debut novel, and what a debut! Chock full of twists and turns, and outstandingly written action scenes, this book is well worth the read. The only reason I didn’t rate it more than 4.25 is because it’s a crime novel, which I’m not all that fond of in general, but Dennis’s main charcters, Private Investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angie Gennaro, are true-to-life people who suffer their fair share, (and then some), of that war, regardless of the fact they’re PIs, (as we seen in too many crime novels). There’s a lot more than meets the eye where their relationship is concerned as well.
Currently reading: Sacred, by Dennis Lehane. This is actually the third book about PIs Patrick Kenzie and Angie Gennaro. I somehow skipped the second so I’m out of order, but these are written well enough to work as stand alones, so while I now know a couple of key happenings from the second book, Darkness, Take My Hand, I’m fairly certain that won’t ruin it for me. As much as I enjoyed A Drink Before the War, I can see vast improvement in Dennis’s storytelling ability with Sacred, which just goes to show, when it comes to writing, practice makes perfect, (see Shutter Island). Sacred will have your head spinning with all the possibilities. You think you know what’s happening, or, better said, Patrick and Angie think they know what’s happening, then Wham! Out of left field comes a line drive curve ball, and another, and another, and another. I’m about 2/3 through with this one so it shouldn’t be long before I post this review.
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May 29, 2010
Just finished: Mystic River, by Dennis Lehane - Rating 4.5. I had seen this movie when it came out in theaters ages ago, but I must’ve been having a fibro flare or something because I couldn’t recall much about it. What’s most surprising about (not remembering) is that Kevin Bacon stars in it, who I absolutely love, plus it was directed by one of the best, Clint Eastwood. This is not necessarily a bad thing though because I prefer reading the book, any book, before seeing the movie, so I went into this novel blindly so to speak. As I read though, I recalled the story and knew what would happen next. If not for that, this would’ve been a great read. That’s not to say it wasn’t, but if you haven’t seen the movie I suggest reading the book first. It’s a humdinger of a mystery chock full of surprises at every turn, which doesn’t surprise me considering the author.
I’m one who, when I discover a book I love, I have to read everything written by that author. I thank Larry Brooks, of storyfix.com, for the deconstruction of Shutter Island. I knew I had to see the movie when I saw the trailer, but I missed it of course before it was out of theaters. Now I have to wait ten more days for it to be released on DVD. But when I saw that Larry was doing the deconstruction I immediately bought the book and read it fast. Wow, what a story! Shutter Island will rock you to your core. Since I enjoyed it so much I went out and got every Dennis Lehane novel the library had. Next up, (I’m reading chronologically by publication date), is A Drink Before the War. I’m certain this one will be just as good as Mystic River and Shutter Island. Review coming soon!
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May 22, 2010
Just finished: Fair and Tender Ladies, by Lee Smith - Rating – 5+ – Fair and Tender Ladies is arguably the greatest literary work of our time. Ivy Rowe, the protagonist, takes us from her first experience writing letters as a young girl (to an unknown pen pal), through the rest of her life writing letters to various family members and friends, with such deep emotion the reader truly feels like she’s right there with her. Ivy is a headstrong girl/woman who never strays from her freedom-loving character, no matter the dire circumstances life throws her way. Fair and Tender Ladies is an absolute must read, for all, but especially for writers wanting to learn “how to write”. Get it now!
Currently reading: Mystic River, by Dennis Lehane. I saw the movie ages ago, and though it’s always been a favorite, I tend to prefer the book over the movie, no matter the story. I’ve just started this one, so can’t say any more at this point than it sounds promising. Review coming soon!
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May 18, 2010
Currently reading: Fair and Tender Ladies, by Lee Smith. I’m about halfway through this literary treasure and expect to finish it within a couple more days, (Lord willing and I can find some time). Although it took me a few pages to get into the dialect – the book is written as a series of letters from a barely educated “backwoods” girl, Ivy Rowe - I’m in love with the her already. And wow! I can easily understand why Lee Smith is so highly applauded. The woman is a master of storytelling. Review coming soon!
Just finished: YA, middle grade, The Titan’s Curse, of the Percy Jackson series, by Rick Riordan - Rating - 5 - The Titan’s Curse was the most exciting of this series yet. Though each book in the series is written to also be a stand-alone, I recommend starting from the beginning, with The Lightning Thief, in order to truly appreciate the growth of Percy, and his friends, Grover and Annabeth, as well as the rest of the cast. If you have a tweenager, you’ll definitely want to buy the whole set for them. There is so much action in The Titan’s Curse you’ll be flipping the pages faster than you can run for the chocolate. They’re also full of hilarious metaphors that “the child of the 80s” will crack up at, while your own child will still ‘get’ enough to laugh at.
Also just finished the fourth in The Percy Jackson series, The Battle of the Labyrinth - Rating 4.25 – The only reason this one didn’t rate as well as the first three was because I was quite confused through the first half of the book. BUT, after getting to the last few chapters it all falls into place, and, as a writer, I can understand why I was confused - specifically because that’s what the author wanted you to be. Those last few chapters are the perfect set up to make you want to read the next, and last, book in the series, The Last Olympian. I was so aggravated when I reached the end of The Battle of the Labyrinth, not because it wasn’t good – on the contrary, it was so good I wanted very much to pick up The Last Olympian right away, but alas I had just went to the library that very day and checked out six books, so those must now be read at a feverish rate in order for me to get back to Percy’s “final” story.
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May 9, 2010
Currently reading: YA, middle grade, The Titan’s Curse, of the Percy Jackson series, by Rick Riordan ~ I’m about halfway through this exciting adventure, and it’s just as promising as the first two books, The Lightning Thief, and The Sea of Monsters. Why am I reading YA you ask? The main reason is that my son is in love with this series, but, even better, these books are quite good and teaching me a lot about plot structure. Review coming soon!
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May 6, 2010
Just finished: Her Fearful Symmetry, by Audrey Niffenegger, (author of The Time Traveler’s Wife) – Rating – 2.5 – Here’s what I posted a few days ago, when I was shortly into this story: “I knew I had to read this one, not only because I enjoyed The Time Traveler’s Wife so much, but more because it’s a ghost story, and I love ghost stories! I started it yesterday, (even though we had a lot going on), and I’m already on page 89. An intriguing read, you can tell from the get-go there’s a big family secret being hidden, and the further into the story you get, the more you want to know. I doubt it will take me long to finish this one, my schedule be damned. Review coming soon!”
So what made me give this book such a low rating? Once I got past that “oh, something is coming” point, not much happened. It started dragging around midway, and by the time I got through that I figured out how it would end. I think maybe this has something to do, (okay, a lot to do), with being a writer. The trouble with learning more each day about ‘how to write’ is that reading for pleasure becomes more difficult, because you inevitably end up trying to find hidden plot points, and things like that. But even if I hadn’t figured out the ending so early on, the story simply wasn’t written all that well. Although there are a lot of fantasy elements in the story, the realism that should’ve accompanied it wasn’t there. The characters didn’t act anything like most people would. Yes, we have to write our stories in such a manner that it surprises the reader, but some things just need to be there and when they aren’t, you feel sort of cheated. Since I enjoyed The Time Traveler’s Wife so much, I expected a lot from Her Fearful Symmetry, so that could be why I was so disappointed. It may be worth it if you have time to waste, but otherwise, I wouldn’t recommend Her Fearful Symmetry.
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May 2, 2010
Just finished: Cross genre? Whistling in the Dark, by Lesley Kagen - Rating – 4.5. After the first few pages, I wasn’t sure if would be able to finish this one, because this is how it opens: “I never heard exactly who it was that found Sara Heinemann’s dead body over at the lagoon. But it was Willie O’Hara who told us that she was lying neatly on the grass between those rotting red rowboats you could rent for a dollar if you wanted to do a little fishing. Sara’s pink undies were wrapped around her neck like a bow and she was naked. And some of her blond hair had been cut off just like Junie Piaskowski’s had the summer before.” A fantastic hook, but I just wasn’t sure I could handle reading about young girls being murdered and molested.
However, because the story is told from the POV of “highly imaginative” Sally O’Malley, a young girl who just promised her dad, (as he was dying after a car wreck), that she would take care of her spit-fire of a little sister, Troo, the voice drew me in like (pardon the pun) a moth to a flame. There are not only secrets all over the place, but Sally’s extreme imagination leaves even her wondering if her idea that she knows who the murderer is is correct. This book is sprinkled with foreshadowing that will leave you wondering yourself who the murderer is all the way to the very end. A wonderful, on-the-edge-of-your-seat story, you will fall in love with sweet Sally O’Malley from the get go. Read an excerpt on Lesley’s site here. Then you’ll have to go buy it!
Still reading: Writing Down the Bones:Freeing the Writer Within, by Natalie Goldberg I’ve started reading this highly recommended book on writing a few days ago, and have been skipping around, (Natalie tells us in the beginning the book is designed to do so). I find it amazing that hearing someone say “just remember and write” actually works. Yesterday I read the chapter on lists, just three pages long, put the book down, picked up my notebook and suddenly had four pages of “memories to write about” listed. I was shocked. I can certainly understand why so many great authors recommend this book, and look forward to the many rewards I know it will bring me.
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April 25, 2010
Just finished: (updated 04/27/10): Psychological thriller, Shutter Island, by Dennis Lehan - Rating – 5+. One of the best written books I’ve ever read, Shutter Island will leave you with that “Oh My Gosh” feeling at the end, making you want to reread it all over again from the first page, (which I intend to do once I’ve narrowed down my ‘to be read’ list a bit more), to see if you can find the obviously well-hidden clues you missed the first time around. It does help that Larry Brooks is deconstructing the book [see below] in order to point us directly to those clues. Larry, if you’re reading this, thank you so much! But even if I didn’t plan on following that deconstruction, I’d read it again just for the pure pleasure of the story. The language and dialogue are among the best portrayed I’ve ever read, nevermind the twist ending. What was so interesting about reading Shutter Island was that, knowing I was reading towards a ”Big Surprise” ending, I looked for clues just to see if I could figure it out before I got there, and though there were a couple of things I did find on my own, one of the biggest surprises, (yes, there is more than one), I didn’t see coming at all. And that’s what made this rate the ‘+’ after the 5.
Note: Author Larry Brooks at Storyfix.com will embark upon the deconstruction of this novel beginning Monday, April 26th. Although I just received this book in the mail yesterday I am devouring it in the hopes of not being too far behind in this great opportunity to learn the tricks of this masterful storyteller. As info, Larry recommends seeing the movie first, then reading the book. Unfortunately, I missed the movie while it was in theaters, so I’ll have to wait for the DVD, due to be released June 8. 
If you’re a writer, I highly recommend subscribing to Larry’s blog. He shares very insightful, helpful lessons that all writers should listen to.
Currently reading: Writing book, Writing Down the Bones:Freeing the Writer Within, by Natalie Goldberg. FINALLY I bought this book on writing that many of my writing friends have recommended for quite some time. I’m just getting started on this one, (having difficulty ignoring it while I finish Shutter Island), but I’m certain it will take me no time to devour before I start from the beginning and read again, as I do with all books on writing.
Just finished: Literary fiction, Last Light Over Carolina, by Mary Alice Monroe. Rating – 5: A wonderful tale of love and forgiveness, portraying the harsh life of many generations of shrimpers, Ms. Monroe once again astounds with her assured knowledge of South Carolina’s low country, and characters that feel so real I sometimes think I can pick up the phone and invite them over for coffee. I’ve read all of Ms. Monroe’s books and recommend reading each and every one.
Books rated 4 or above read since last update in March (just a few – If I listed them all we’d be here all day):
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YA, middle grade, The Lightning Thief, and Sea of Monsters, of The Percy Jackson series, by Rick Riordan. Rating for both – 5. My 11-year-old son, Noah, discovered The Percy Jackson series a couple of months ago and devoured all five books in the series in just a few weeks. He was so impressed by the stories, he bought the set and has opened his own library, checking the books out to me at, (get this), .25 a day! Though I knew I had to rush through them to keep my costs down, there was no need to worry as I was enthralled from the first sentence of the first book. I’m anxious to read the third in the series, The Titan’s Curse, but am trying to finish Shutter Island and Writing Down the Bones before checking it out, (and Lord knows I don’t need it sitting around creating fees)!
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Cross genre?, Land of a Hundred Wonders, by Lesley Kagen. Rating – 5. I’ve listed this as cross genre because it’s full of everything from laugh out loud humor to mystery and suspense. You will absolutely adore the main character, Gibson “Gibby” McGraw, a young woman who has been labeled as NQR, (Not Quite Right), after an accident that left her with a brain injury. Gibby sets out to prove that she is indeed Quite Right, and her journey to do so will leave you crying for her and peeing your britches with laughs.
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Literary fiction, Very Valentine, and Brava Valentine, by Adriana Trigiani. Rating for both – 5. You probably all know that Adriana is one of my all time favorite authors who I had the pleasure of meeting a couple months ago. Adriana hasn’t written one book that ranks below a 5, (according to my rating system). Her characters are endearing, her descriptions put you in the scene, and the true emotion of humanity shines through every time.
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Nonfiction/spiritual, The Other Side and Back: A Psychic’s Guide to Our World and Beyond, by Sylvia Browne. Rating – 5. A lot of media controversy surrounds Sylvia Browne, just as it does any psychic in today’s world. Most people are skeptics. I’m not one of them - enough said. Though I enjoyed the immense knowledge I received from reading this book, what I appreciate the most about it is her down-to-earth tone. Even if you are a skeptic, I recommend reading this wealth of knowledge.
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Writing book, Bird by Bird:Some Instructions on Writing and Life, by Anne Lamott. Rating – 5. One word: inspirational. Are you a writer? If you write, you’re a writer. Get thee to a bookstore, or Amazon, and buy this now.
J. M. Strother
May 31, 2009 at 7:04 pm
My all time favorite author is J. R. R. Tolkien. I think of the current writers I might put Laurie R. King at the top of the list. She has a couple of mystery series, but I think her best work are her stand-alone novels. Folly was absolutely wonderful. And two of the best books I’ve read in the last year or so are The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows, and The Stolen Child by Keith Donohue. Both excellent reads!
~jon
Deanna Schrayer
May 31, 2009 at 8:41 pm
I’ll have to check out Mary Ann Shaffer – Potato Peel Pie Society just sounds like something I’d like. Thanks!
A Mom's Choice
June 3, 2009 at 1:53 am
I have a few favorite authors. I like Nora Roberts. I just finished reading her new book The Mac Kade Brothers:Rafe & Jared. The sequel is due out in July and I can not wait to get my hands on it. I pretty much read just about anything that comes my way. Funny thing is I did not want anything to do with writing or reading in school. Now I love to read and write.Thanks for answering my question on Writer’s Digest.