"The Last White Knight" by Tami Hoag

The Last White Knight by Tami Hoag is a simplistic romance about a counselor to wayward teen girls falling in love with a good politician.  She has a troubled past she is not proud of and does not feel worthy of such a good guy.  The theme is about letting go of the past to have a good future and not punishing yourself forever for mistakes.  I thought it would be more about the girls she counseled, but that was very small part.  It was okay but I'll stick to her suspense novels over the romance ones. 

(Karen's review 5/27/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"The Language God Talks" by Herman Wouk

I won The Language God Talks--On Science and Religion by Herman Wouk in a giveaway over at Metro Reader.  

Publisher's Summary. More years ago than I care to reckon up, I met Richard Feynman." So begins THE LANGUAGE GOD TALKS, Herman Wouk's gem on navigating the divide between science and religion. In one rich, compact volume, Wouk draws on stories from his life as well as on key events from the 20th century to address the eternal questions of why we are here, what purpose faith serves, and how scientific fact fits into the picture. He relates wonderful conversations he's had with scientists such as Feynman, Murray Gell-Mann, Freeman Dyson, and Steven Weinberg, and brings to life such pivotal moments as the 1969 moon landing and the Challenger disaster.

This book was disappointing. I thought it would be more about science and the Bible but it actually was more intellectual and philosophical. The first half was primarily a history of science and theories and the authors conversations with scientists. The second half was more about Judaism and the author's life experiences.  Basically, I did not care for this. 

I am passing it on to Sarah over at Books Like Water since I saw she commented that she would have liked to enter the giveaway but was too late. Even after I told her what I thought of it she still wanted it so good--I hope she likes it better than I did.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Going Rogue" by Sarah Palin

OK, I’ll admit I like Sarah Palin.  I like her a whole lot more after Going Rogue.  I enjoyed meeting her family and hearing about them.  The part about her campaign with John McCain was really fascinating stuff.  She pulled no punches!  If you can put your politics aside, I think you will find this book enjoyable too.

(Gerard's review 1/10/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Echo Park" by Michael Connelly

Echo Park by Michael Connelly is a fast-paced murder mystery involving conspiracy, deceit, politics, greed and justice. Harry Bosch is a detective in the unsolved case department of the LAPD and is determined to get to bring the killer of Marie Gesto to justice. Her body was never found but his instincts tell him that some rich guy with a bad temper was responsible. The problem was he couldn’t prove it, even after bringing him in for questioning on three separate occasions. Then he finds out that a serial killer has confessed to killing her as well. The only problem is, Harry doesn’t believe it even after talking with him face-to-face. 

Harry confides in Rachel Walling, an FBI agent that he is attracted to, about his suspicions and she helps him in his investigation. They uncover a conspiracy with the killer to get him off. The theme is that everyone has choices which lead to what type of person you become.

I liked the action in this book as well as the insight into the thinking of Detective Bosch all through the book. The suspense and excitement when Harry was with the serial killer during questioning, in the woods and the final confrontation was riveting! You would think it would end there, but it doesn’t. I highly recommend this book if you like criminal law or mysteries and suspense when the good guys win in the end.
(Karen's Review)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Dog Boy" by Eva Hornung

You Have To Read This Book!
Dog Boy by Eva Hornung got my interest from page one and kept it!  I flew through this book!  What really makes this book is that the writing is superb!  The book evolves around a 4-yr.-old boy left abandoned by his mom and uncle.  He follows and is befriended by a group of wild dogs.  I’ve never read a book like this before with this kind of story.  Give this book a read.  I think you will be glad you did!
(Gerard's review 4/9/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Winter Garden" by Kristin Hannah

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah is such a good book!  It is complex, mysterious, fully of secrets, informative, touching, multifaceted, and full of meaning.  I enjoy books about family relationships and this one is one of the best I ever read.  The older sister, Meredith, always tried to please everyone else, and Nina, an adventuresome photojournalist, are sisters with very different personalities but both feel unloved by their mother, Anya, until they learn her background after their father dies.

The father loved his family very much and his dying wish was that his wife and daughters would become close and love each other too.  The author skillfully conveys much about Russian culture and what it is like to live in a war-torn country through Anya’s account of her life in the form of a fairy tale which is a puzzle her daughters eventually piece together. 

I enjoyed reading how the mother and daughters were reconciled and liked the bitter sweet ending.  All the main characters were well developed and the author also gives insight into love and marriage issues through the various characters.  This book shows how strong women can be when it comes to protecting their family.  I found the way the peasants in Russia lived through the war very interesting.  It also shows how the past affects our present life and how relationships improve when we make an effort to really get to know others.  This is a family saga definitely worth reading.   I look forward to reading more of Kristin Hannah’s books, this was my first and I highly recommend it.

Here's what the author says about it:


Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Whatcha Reading Wednesday--July 28

Busy Mom's Who Love To Read is sponsoring this so visit there and link up.

This is how "Whatcha Reading Wednesdays" works this week...

Pick up the book you are currently reading. Go to page 100 and type that very last complete sentence on the page.  

If it is a spoiler at all be sure to put **Spoiler Alert** at the top of your comment (like if the selection announces the death of an integral character or something).

Here is mine for this week: 

"You said that after the first two killings he chose victims he could

pull beneath the surface without notice."

 Echo Park by Michael Connelly

"Blacklands" by Belinda Bauer

Blacklands by Belinda Bauer was a bit slow moving I thought for a suspense novel but it did keep my interest.  A 12-yr-old boy named Steven writes to the serial killer in jail to try to find out where the killer buried his uncle Billy who was killed when he was just a boy.  I liked the way the letters were written and how suspense built up to when Steven and the killer confronted each other.  It didn’t end like I expected.  It's good and I recommend it
(Karen's Review 4/18/10)  


Blacklands by Belinda Bauer is awesome!  I finished it in just two days because it was almost impossible to put down.  This book is about Steven, a 12-yr-old boy who wants to find where a killer buried his uncle.  He decides to write to the killer in prison and the letters back and forth between the killer and Steven is very interesting!  This is Belinda Bauer’s first book, but I’ll be looking for the next one--super job!

(Gerard's Review 4/9/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"There's Treasure Everywhere" by Bill Watterson

I can never get enough of Calvin & Hobbes.  There's Treasure Everywhere by Bill Watterson is funny.  I was lucky enough to get another Calvin & Hobbes book and this one might have been even better than the last one!  Anyway, Calvin & Hobbes is always so good!  Laugh, smile, enjoy!

(Gerard's review 2/13/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Winter's Bone" by Daniel Woodrell

I think this book makes a better movie.  Winter's Bone is about a teen girl named Rae who has to find her dad or else they could lose their home.  Also, she has two brothers to look after and has to look after her mom, who has gone off the deep end.  It takes place in hill country.  The characters are good and I liked the story.  This is a rare case where I believe that seeing the story is better than reading it.  
(Gerard's review)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"To The Rescue: Found Dogs With a Mission" by Elise Lupkin

This is a collection of remarkable Dogs and people stories I thoroughly enjoyed!  To The Rescue:  Found Dogs With a Mission by Elise Lupkin--Photos by Diana Walker works in so many ways.  First, the dogs are so good.  They are ones left unloved, handicapped, ready to be killed and neglected.  Yet, with special love and affection and training by the people in this book, they have become dogs who visit hospitals, nursing homes, live with blind people or people who cannot hear.  The stories are just REMARKABLE!  The love that people share talking about these dogs makes you feel good!  I really loved this book a lot!  If you need a feel good book to read, this is it!

(Gerard's review 2/16/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"The Weight of Silence" by Heather Gudenkauf

The Weight of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf is a page-turner that grabbed my attention right from the start.  A young girl is abducted and her friend, Calli is also missing.   Calli is seven but hasn't spoken since she was four. I liked this book because it wasn't predictable and deals with a lot of different issues such as family dynamics, alcoholism, old flames, police investigation, selective mutism and friendship.  It is a fast read and contains discussion questions at the end.  I recommend this book if you like contemporary fiction about families.
Karen's review posted 2/11/10

The Weight Of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf is a real page turner!  I suggest not reading the Prologue first.  I never do until I finish reading the book.  Wow!  This book was just awesome.  It reads just like a Jodi Picoult book, which is not a bad thing at all.  The book got my attention right away and kept it all the way to the end.  All the characters are very good.  I especially enjoyed their stories of early times in their lives.  I do not think you will be able to guess the outcome.  I didn’t.  Enjoy this book--it is REALLY, REALLY GOOD!

(Gerard's Review 1/30/10)

comments received moved from our other blog:
I Just started a book blog and I am discouraged. Then I found you guys and I realized that you seem to read the same type of books that I do. I just finished The Weight Of Silence, Have also read The Art of Racing in the Rain and Columbine, The Book Thief and My Sisters Keeper. I am on my library's wait list for Going Rogue. However, your kitties choice of Where the Wild Things Are is my favorite. I's like to ask you a favor, just because I am starting out and your tastes run similar to mine. If you have time would you just drop by my site and give me a critique or two. Since there are so many holidays in February I was going with a theme and a giveaway almost everyday. I am discouraged as I am not having much luck. Mainly just friends and family. I would really appreciate your advice. Thank you very much! Lesa  skyroxy@bellsouth.net

By Lesa on February 15, 2010

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Confessions of a Prairie Bitch" by Alison Arngrim

 I enjoyed reading Confessions of a Prairie Bitch by Alison Arngrim because it was mostly about the TV show I liked called “Little House On The Prairie.”  Alison was the actress who played Nellie Oleson on the show, the mean, snobby girl.  In her book, she shares how people really hated her because of her character on TV when she made public appearances dressed as Nellie.  She shares about her childhood which was so heartbreaking that she thought of the cast as her family and loved the diversion.  I liked reading about her auditions for the show, all that she had to go through in shooting the scenes and how the character of Nellie helped her to be more confident and outgoing.  It was amusing to read about her friendship with Melissa Gilbert (Laura on “Little House”) and her relationships with other people on the set.  The fact that people knew her from playing Nellie on the show opened doors for her to make a difference in social causes.  I recommend this book to anyone who loved watching “Little House On The Prairie.” 
(Karen's Review)   

Confessions of A Prairie Bitch gives the reader a good behind-the-scenes look at "Little House on the Prairie." I thought this was a great book. I enjoyed getting to know Alison too. It is a quick read and funny!
(Gerard's review)

We also read Melissa Gilbert's autobiography, Prairie Tale.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Hannah's Hope" by Karen Kingsbury

Hannah's Hope by Karen Kingsbury, part of the Red Gloves series, is a nice story but very predictable and not very believable about a girl whose mother was traveling a lot and not home who married an ambassador to Sweden and the girl thought he was her father but later found out he wasn't, but that her real father was in the army over at war in Iraq. Prayed for her parents to be home for Christmas and mother came home to clear up all the media mess about their family that the girl created by going on a public search for her biological father and he got sent home early once he was rescued from being held prisoner.

This is a quick read but it contained some good suggestions in the back on ways to encourage servicemen.
(Karen's review 11/07)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Journey to Reading For Pleasure (Blog Hop)

<em><a href="http://www.ourstack.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh290/kzemek/ourstack_EC.jpg" ></a></em>

To get your children reading, make sure they can see.   I say this because when I was in first grade learning to read, I had a very difficult time.  My teacher kept a group of us who were not getting it after school for some additional help and she discovered my problem was that I just could not see the board.  Once she moved me to the front of the room and I got eyeglasses, I picked it up much quicker.


Naturally any mother who loves to read also tries to encourage her children to read too.  My mother was an avid reader and I remember her reading four or five thick books in just a week.  She took us to the library as kids in an effort to get us interested in books too, but it didn't really work.  I would rather go outside and play than sit around and read.  I did the required reading for school, some of which I just skimmed through and that was it. 


In school, whenever I had to do a book report, I would just choose the book by width.  Seriously, if it was a fat book, it would not be one I picked.  Consequently, I missed out on some really good books.  I first learned that a bigger novel is generally better than those little skinny books when I read Jane Eyre for a book report on my mother's recommendation.


In high school I was put into an advanced English class which I really did not want to be in.  To me, it seemed a waste of my time to have to do more homework including 12 book reports when I could get an easy "A" in the regular English class with less homework and only three book reports.  Now, for someone who does not like to read, guess which class I chose.  I got out of that advanced English class as fast as I could! 


Even in college, I read very little of the textbooks.  Mostly, I just took good notes in class, then typed them up and studied from that.  I maintained good enough grades that way to keep my scholarship for all four years.  I only actually read the books for courses I was interested in.  


It wasn't until I was married that I started to enjoy reading for pleasure.  My husband was a reader ever since elementary school.  It's funny though, he didn't go to college.  I think if he had gone, he would have learned more than I did.  He used to buy books but once we were married, I took him to the library and showed him how he could actually go online and order popular books that he wanted to read and they would send him an email when they came in.  When he read a book he thought I would too, suggested I read it.  I don't recall what the first book I read was that he recommended.


Mostly I still read when I'm bored, like while I ride the bus to and from work, or while waiting at a doctor's office, or during a lunch hour.  I seldom read at home unless I have a book that really is gripping and I can't wait to see what happens next or if I'm in a hurry to finish a book. 


We invite you to post about your journey to becoming an avid reader with a link back here and link up.  Copy the badge if you like. 


Related post:  Mary the Kay the Blog shares tricks she uses to teach her kids to read.

Check out Mrs4444 Saturday Samplings for more good posts. 

"False Convictions" by Tim Green

Whew, I'm glad I'm dne with this one!  False Convictions by Tim Green is one of the dumbest books I ever read.  I thought it would be good because it was about the Freedom Project but in this case the guy that was set free after 20 years was actually guilty after all.   This book just dragged along for me. 

The book was confusing to me and I had a hard time following what was going on.  Graham is a very wealthy man who is a well-known philanthropist who turns out to be a big crook who is on the board of The Freedom Project.  He was out to discredit a judge who refused to be "bought."  I was kind of lost throughout the book and really only liked the reporter, Jake, and the attorney, Casey.  It was very complicated with mafia connections tossed in.  

Once Dwayne, the guilty guy, was freed and Casey realized that she helped free a guilty man who killed again, because Graham set her up by managing to switch the DNA that would have proved he was guilty, she tried to correct the wrong.   


The book ends with a big chase which made no sense at all.  If you read this, I'd really be interested to see what you thought of it. 

I stuck it out but I should have quit after the first few chapters.  I did not like it at all and do not recommend this one.  There are so many better books to read! 

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Making The Rounds With Oscar

A collection of Heartbreaking Stories:  Making Rounds With Oscar by David Dosa is not really about Oscar.  It is more about the patients Dr. Dosa attends to at a Hospice center.  The stories are mostly heartbreaking about loved ones trying to do the best they can for their loved one that is dying and Oscar is always with them at the end.  The part about Oscar is the best part of the book in my opinion.  I’ve now read back-to-back books about death and am ready to find a more cheery subject!

(Gerard's review 3/27/10)

Check out Sparkle, the Designer Cat's review of this book too!

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?  Did you participate in our two poles yet on our sidebar?

"The Endearment" by LaVyrle Spencer

The Endearment by LaVyrle Spencer is another of my all-time favorite romance novels.  I loved this book and think I'm even going to read it again!  This one is about a mail order bride, Anna, for a Swede in Minnesota, Karl.  These two people are very different so things start out very rocky.  It is a sweet, tender love story full of humor and some touching moments.  It gave me insight into how hard life in Minnesota was back in pioneer days and the characters were very believable and sell developed.  This is a must read if you like love stories with some humor. 
(Karen's review)


The Endearment by Lavyrle Spencer is a love story about Anna and Karl. Anna is a mail order bride for Karl. The problem is Anna is not who Karl believes her to be. The fun of this story is watching how Anna and Karl go about trying to find a middle ground, not to mention, James, Anna’s brother who she brings along with her. I would call this a woman’s book, but as a 57-yr.-old man, I must admit I enjoyed it.
(Gerard's review)

Blog Hop Coming July 24:  Write a post about how you got to like reading and became an avid reader tomorrow then link up to mine. We'll have my first blog hop! I promise to read each one who links up.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"There Are No Children Here" by Alex Kotiowitz

"A World Not Seen By Many"  4 stars
There Are No Children Here is an extraordinary book about living in the projects of Chicago.  This book is dated since this project got knocked down years ago, but it does not make the story any less relevant.  It's about two boys, Lafeyette and Pharoah, and their families living day to day just trying to survive.  You get into this story quick and stay there.  It's a good read.  I recommend it.

Gerard's review 7/22/08)

Excellent book. It was required reading when I was in college. I wish all teacher ed. programs mandated such reading.

By twistedteacher on July 23, 2008 14:39

"Somebody Else's Kids" by Torey Hayden

I liked Somebody Else's Kids by Torey Hayden because it was pretty amusing but yet sad too when you realize that this isn't fiction. Claude was a pregnant 12 yr. old who ended up giving her baby up for adoption and becoming valedictorian of her class. Lori had some brain damage so couldn’t read but a warm heart. Boo was autistic and would take of his clothes and flap around. Tomaso was violent because was angry his dad died and had to be in foster homes but was intelligent. Acted tough but showed concern for other kids, especially Lori. Lori got stuffed bear for Tomaso for his birthday and he tore it up but then had Torey sew it back up. This is a touching book.
(Karen's review 10/05)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"The Gamble" by LaVyrle Spencer

In "The Gamble" by LaVyrle Spencer, a western town with saloon owner (Scott) and temperance movement president (Agatha/Gussie) falling in love after being drawn together by an orphan (Willy). Scott got Willy a cat he named “Moose.” Saloon owner left to go back to his plantation and sent for the woman he fell in love with. He also had very colorful friends, former prostitutes who became dancing girls in the saloon and moved with him to the plantation to help him get it in shape to use as a bed & breakfast place.

I liked this book because there was a lot of subplots going on besides just the romance and it held my attention.  There was humor in this too which always makes for an enjoyable read.




(Karen's review 10/02)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"One Child" and "The Tiger's Child" by Torey Hayden

One Child by Torey Hayden is very interesting, but also very sad.  It is about Shelia, a bright 6-year-old girl who tied up a 4-year-old and set him on fire and was put in Torey’s “crazy kid” class until a space opened up in the State mental hospital for her. She had a high IQ, was a bed wetter, had an abusive, alcoholic father and was abandoned on a freeway by her mother who kept her younger brother. She was quite a terror, but Tory “tamed” her and became very attached to her. She was cut bad by her uncle who raped her and was in the hospital for a month. She was able to enter regular classes again. Very good book, but left you wondering what happened to Sheila. (The Tiger’s Child is the sequel)

The Tiger’s Child by Torey Hayden

(Sequel to One Child)

Very good about Shelia as a teenager and how she had blocked a lot of her childhood out. Her memories came back the more she talked with Torey. Became a manager of McDonalds which disappointed Torey. Mixed up Torey with her mom who abandoned her at one point. Also worked with Torey with some disturbed kids which was good for awhile.
(Karen's review 10/05)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Not Without Hope" by Nick Schyler and Jere Longman

Not Without Hope by Nick Schyler and Jere Longman is an amazing story! One day four buddies went out for a fishing trip. The four were Marquis Cooper, Will Bleakley, Corey Smith and Nick Schuyler. Only Nick survived and this is his story. What a tragic tale it is. I kept thinking of what these guys went through and their family and friends when the boat was finally discovered. The writing is awesome. You get the feeling you are right there. It’s a wonder Nick made it. If you think you can handle it, this is a very good book to read. I can’t say I enjoyed it because of the content, but I’m glad I read it.

(Gerard's review 3/23/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Morning Glory" by LaVyrle Spencer

Morning Glory by LaVyrle Spencer is one of my all-time favorite romance novels.  Although I read it back in April of 2002, I still remember it as being an emotional read.  I liked that it had little kids in it and an unusual story line.  I had a hard time putting this one down. 

Will, an ex-con gets fired and responds to want ad for husband because he has no place to live and nothing to eat. Elly is a widow with two little kids and a baby on the way who lives in a broken down house with messy yard and broken down buildings. They fall in love for real and he goes in the Marines, gets a medical discharge and goes on trial for murder. Elly wouldn’t leave her home but she did because of Will.
(Karen's review 4/02)

LaVeryle Spncer is my favorite romance author.  In fact, it was her books that got me started reading romance novels so the next few days, I will be posting about some of them that I enjoyed reading very much and highly recommend.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Daddy Long Legs" by Jean Webster

I enjoyed Daddy Long Legs by Jean Webster which is full of letters from an orphan girl to the man who paid for her college and wanted to remain anonymous who she affectionately referred to as Daddy Long Legs.  The original deal was that in turn for her college tuition and a monthly allowance she would write each month to let him know her progress in her studies.  Her letters were amusing and I liked the illustrations.  All through the book I was pulling for her to finally meet this man.  The ending caught me by surprise--I didn't see it coming.  I would recommend it for young adults.

(Karen's review 3/9/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Twilight Children: Voices No One Heard Until a Therapist Listened" by Torey Hayden

Twilight Children by Torey Hayden is one of best books Gerard ever read. Very good! Really interesting how she was able to help multiple personality Cassandra who was a real terror.

A child psychiatrist helped Cassandra (7 yr. old) who was abducted by her father for two years and was sexually abused. She developed multiple personalities but did get better eventually. Also about a 4 yr. old, Drake and Friend (his stuffed tiger) who couldn’t talk but who was thought to have selective mutism. Mother was only one who knew the truth until she confided in the psychiatrist who tried to help Drake speak. 

This is quite an interesting book that both Gerard and I liked very much.  I found it very fascinating.  It is the first book we read by Torey Hayden.
(reviewed 9/05)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine is a novel about Caitlin, a little 5th grade girl with Asperges syndrome.  Now she has to deal with her brother getting shot in a school killing.  How she and her dad handle it is the basis of this book.  I really enjoyed Caitlin very much.  You can read it in one or two days.  It is worth your time.  This book has been nominated for book of the year in the young people’s category.  Well deserved!  I LOVED IT!!

(Gerard's review 5/18/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Losing It And Gaining My Life Back One Pound at a Time by Valerie Bertinelli

I passed Losing It And Gaining My Life Back One Pound at a Time by Valerie Bertinelli up a couple times because I thought it was just a woman's book. I finally thought I would just give it a chance and am sure glad I did! Valerie really puts it all out there and holds nothing back. I was surprised at some of the things I found out and am sure you will be too. It's a good, fast read. Men and women will enjoy this book!

(Gerard's review 7/6/08)

"Beautiful Child" by Torey Hayden

WOW! A really GREAT BOOK! My favorite of her books. Cried at the end.

In Beautiful Child Torey Hayden shares about her challenging special ed class and how the teacher struggled throughout the year and turned it around. Venus was the most challenging of all because had very serious abuse in the home and was mostly unresponsive except when attacking other kids when they accidentally bumped her. Finally got the help she needed after the hospital treated her for hypothermia, had to amputate her toes, and found 22 broken bones that had healed or were in various stages of healing. 

It also revealed the struggle Torey had with her aide who was totally on a different page philosophically and really undermined what she was trying to do.
Some of the things teacher did that worked was behavior modification with traffic lights, singing between activities or to refocus kids when they started fighting, closed eye journey, special one-on-one time at recess with Venus —held her on her lap.
(Karen's review 9/05)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Maggie's Miracle by Karen Kingsbury

Maggie's Miracle by Karen Kingsbury is the story of single widow who’s an attorney and her little boy who wrote a letter to God asking for a daddy to do things with. A lonely widower decides to help by joining an organization that matches men up with boys who don’t have fathers to be their friend. Guy turns out to be the woman’s childhood friend who was a Pastor’s son and who Maggie asked to pray for a miracle for her. They wind up getting married at the end.
(Karen's review 11/07)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Please Stop Laughing At Us: One Survivor's Extraordinary Quest to Prevent School Bullying

Jodee Blanco is a remarkable woman.  I hated to see Please Stop Laughing At Us:  One Survivor's Extraordinary Quest to Prevent School Bullying end. It was like talking to my new best friend. Finally, somebody got it right telling the story of being bullied. I admire Jodee. The work she is doing is so important! I just LOVED this book and hope you write another.

Be sure to read the emails and letters at the end of this book. They are sad, but good to know people now have someone to turn to--Jodee!

(Gerard's Review 7/1/10)

This is her second book about how she recovered from all the bullying she endured all through school and as an adult, went to talk at schools around the country to help other kids who were being bullied and help the bullies to stop. She also addressed parents and teachers.

Her advice included telling the bullied kids to stand up for themselves in a nonviolent way, find friends outside of school even if it means going outside of their school district. Parents should not just send kid for counseling but go with them. Parents need to support their kids and let the kids talk about their problems. Try to come up with an action together that will help the situation. She emphasized over and over that the advice to just ignore the bullies and they'll stop doesn't work for kids.  That is adult logic, but in reality, kids just tease all the more.

This book has a great message and offers practical help to both the bullied kids and their parents and teachers. It tells how the kids who used to pick on her in school are now her friends and she even married the most popular guy in school that all the girls liked which gives much hope to those going through the same thing. Great book!  I'd recommend every teacher read it and anyone who has been the recipient of being bullied.

(Karen's review 7/23/08)

"Between Sundays" by Karen Kingsbury

Between Sundays by Karen Kingsbury is Christian fiction about how God works in the lives of two NFL players, a low-income foster mom and her foster son. Each of them has their own issues which they turn over to God. I liked this book very much because it is about relationships and how God works in our lives. Although predictable, it is a fun and interesting read. I liked how it focused more on the private lives of the football players and their interaction with each other off the field between Sundays although the game coverage was interesting too. It pointed out some shortcomings of the foster care system and gives the website of www.AlexSmithFoundation.org where you can go to find out how you can help through the Guardian Scholars program. 

I rate this book 4 stars instead of 5, just because of its predictability. Even though I knew the end early on, I enjoyed seeing how it all unfolded and reviewing the discussion questions at the end. It's a quick, enjoyable read. I recommend it to anyone who likes football or stories about families or the working of God in lives. The message for the readers is what we do between our Sunday "huddles" at church is what matters most.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Sonshine Girls: Summer Secret by Renee Morris

Sonshine Girls:  #1 Summer Secret  is the first wonderful Christian fiction book in the Sonshine Girls series which is geared to tweeners and young teens.  Issues that are raised include friendship, bullying, forgiveness, Christianity, cliques and peer pressure.  There are four main characters that make up the Sonshine Girls.  As I read, I could closely identify with Kristin and Charli. The author has done a fantastic job of capturing the moodiness and general camaraderie that girls often demonstrate.  In the back are tips for dealing with bullies which could be helpful someone who is being bullied.  The book moves right along and is a very enjoyable read. 
(Karen's review 12/08)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Dishing It Party--Summer Reads

Hey, join in the party! Here are the questions you get to write a post about and then link up at Serenity Now--A Mommy's Solution to Staying Sane. Be sure to visit other blogs that have joined the party too!

~Give us your list of top 5 picks for summer reading.
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
2. House Rules by Jodi Picoult
3. Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber
4. Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein
5. Homer's Odyssey by Gwen Cooper

~What genre of literature makes you want to pick up a book and read (biographies, chick lit, Christian fiction, historical fiction, etc.)?
Gerard best likes books about dogs and events that happened that he doesn't know a lot about. He likes books on war and sports as well as books about Christianity. He prefers non-fiction and likes memoirs or biographies.

I like a wide variety and just depends on what mood I'm in as to what I choose. I like both fiction and non-fiction, some historical fiction, biographies/autobiographies, some young adult fiction, sometimes romance, sometimes suspense or books involving teachers.

~What are your favorite magazines?
Gerard's are Newsweek, Time and Sports Illustrated. I don't read magazines.

~If you had to be stuck on a desert island with any fictional character, who would you choose? Definitely Katniss from The Hunger Games because she is a survivor and knows how to cook, hunt and fish.

~How do you make time to escape into a good book?
We read during our lunch and breaks and Gerard reads some in the evenings. I like reading at the library garden on my lunch hour in downtown Cleveland. I read on the bus to and from work and sometimes on the porch or by a window in the evenings.

~What's your favorite place to get your books?
The library. If I want own a book, I check http://paperbackswap.com (they have more than paperbacks).

~What's next on your "to-read" list?
See our header on this blog. Those are the books we are reading next.

I Don't Like These, I'm Going Back To The Library!

We always go the library on Saturday mornings.  Gerard usually has some books waiting for him to pick up that he ordered ahead.  We combine our stacks and then I get a picture of them to post for our header on here along with whatever pet comes around. 


This morning it was just Spunky Doodle who came.  Unfortunately, Gerard started reading Before I Fall and decided it was too much of a teen girl book that he didn't want to read anymore.  He also got Mr. Peanut which is about the Sam Shepherd case he said.  Once he found out other books he ordered arrived later in the day, he took these to back and got two others instead:  Zoo Story and A Dog's Purpose.


This made it necessary for me to retake the blog picture only Spunky Doodle just was too hot and not in the mood.  Manny came up though, but only wanted to do it if he could be on the ledge.  I said, okay and retook the picture.


This is another advantage of using your local library rather than buying books.  We love the library and are participating in the "Books Ahoy" contest.  They have drawings every week of the contest and we both won Indians ticket vouchers and two coupons for Chipotle.

How often do you go to the library?

"Still Standing: The Untold Story About My Fight Against Gossip, Hate and Political Attacks" by Carrie Prejean

Still Standing:  The Untold Story About My Fight Against Gossip, Hate and Political Attacks by Carrie Prejean is the revealing story of her participation in beauty pageants and how her simple answer that she believed "marriage is between a man and a woman" resulted in a national smear campaign against her, including her own pageant directors.  The judges were looking for a "politically correct" answer and the one who asked the question gave her a zero on that part of the competition.  She still came in second.   She tells the whole story of what really happened.

 

I found it very interesting that she liked sports and was an athlete before entering a beauty pageant and supported the Special Olympics.  As she won and moved up to the next levels, the "handlers" became more determined to change her to increase her chances of winning, such as dying her hair and paying for a boob job.  It is a great look at behind-the-scenes and she goes into detail about all the ramifications she faced from the media and liberals.  She just wanted to be true to herself and give an honest answer.  I could identify with her throughout the book and applaud her for taking a stand for what she believed, even if it meant losing. 

 

I liked this book because I only heard bits and pieces about her experience from what I read on some blogs and found it very interesting to get the whole story.  If you don't like her, you probably won't like her book either.  I thought the advice she gives to girls in the last chapter based on lessons she learned along the way was good. 

 

Following are the main points:

1.  Be true to yourself.  Don't let anyone bully you or trick you into doing something that you feel uncomfortable doing.

2.  Never fear that God's standard is the right standard.

3.  Grace turns losses into gains and accidents into your best opportunities.

4.  Seek advice from a "multitude of counsel."

5.  Forgiveness heals.

6.  Don't leave yourself outside of the circle of forgiveness.

7.  Don't let the culture convince you that trying to hold to a high standard is being "too judgmental."

8.  Stand up with courage.

(Karen's review 1/27/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

What Book Can't You Wait To Read (Book Blogger Hop)

We are doing this book hop sponsored by Crazy For Books. This weekend we are supposed to share what book we can't wait to read. For both Gerard and me, that is easy--definitely Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins which is the sequel to The Hunger Games which we both thought was an awesome book.

While we are waiting for this one to come in from our library, we look forward to reading Confessions of a Prairie Bitch by Alison Arngrim, the actress who played Nellie on "The Little House On The Prairie.

What book can't you wait to read? Visit the book blogger hop to find more great books!

"The Last Christian" by David Gregory

The Last Christian by David Gregory is about Abigail who grew up in Africa with her missionary parents.  When a strange disease wipes out the village except for her so has to come to the USA.  Everything changes for her and no one believes in God anymore.  The Last Christian was better than I expected--a good page-turner for sure.  If you need a faith pickup, this book will do it!

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Velveteen Rabbit" by Margery Williams

I read this because I came across a blog that posted this was her first favorite book and she still enjoys reading it over and over so I wanted to read it to see why.  Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams is a cute classic children’s book about toys becoming real when they are well loved and cared for.  I liked the idea of a nursery fairy and how when a stuffed animal is worn out, that's when it becomes real.  

I recommend this book to any parent who thinks it’s time to throw out a worn out stuffed animal that their child is not ready to part with.  This should help.  Me being a stuffed animal collector, I really liked this story!

(Karen's review 4/18/10)

Comment moved from our other blog:

My daughter loved this book when she was small. I would read it to her, and then when she could read, she would read it to me. When my sons were small, the oldest had a black and white teddy bear that actually was tread bare. Our boys were 5 years apart so the oldest never played with it anymore, but the little one took it over and loved it. Well, when cleaning out things (we could burn things in a burn barrel where we lived), I threw that bear in thinking it was old, raggedy and worn out. Well, you would have thought I had killed my baby boy's best friend. He screamed and cried, but it was too late to retrieve it from the fire. I felt so bad for quite a while over that. The baby girl that came along 13 years after this incident is the one that loved The Velveteen Rabbit...too bad I hadn't read it when my boys were babies. Thanks for the reminder of a great book for little ones.

By peabea on April 18, 2010

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"The Art Of Racing In The Rain" by Garth Stein

The Art Of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein is awesome.  It started out slow and I thought about giving up on it but I’m so glad I stuck with it and finished it.  It is narrated by a dog named Enzo who is devoted to his owner, Denny, a race car driver.  The dog and Denny sit and watch videos of car races together, while Denny points out racing tips to the dog that he applies to life.

Denny had lots of personal problems including a sick wife who died of Brain Cancer and the constant battle with his in-laws over his daughter, and a bogus criminal lawsuit against him.

The dog shares it’s thoughts with the reader but can only communicate to his owners with gestures which is frustrating for it and so he looks forward to being reincarnated as a man.  It’s an inspirational book, encouraging the reader to “finish the race” and never, ever quit but hang in and overcome obstacles.

Here are some of my favorite quotes from The Art Of Racing In The Rain:
 

Your car goes where your eyes go.
 
Yes:  the race is long—to finish first, first you must finish.
 
The true hero is flawed.  The true test of a champion is not whether he can triumph, but whether he can overcome obstacles—preferably of his own making—in order to triumph.
 
No race has ever been won in the fist corner, but plenty of races have been lost there.
 
Getting angry at another driver for a driving incident is pointless.  You need to watch the drivers around you, understand their skill, confidence and aggression levels, and drive with them accordingly.  Know who is driving next to you.  Any problems that may occur have  ultimately been caused by you, because you are responsible for where you are and what you are doing there.

(Karen's Review 2/3/10)
Must check out www.goenzo.com

The Art Of Racing In The Rain is told to you by Enzo, the dog.  You will grow to love Enzo very much as he tells the story of Denny, his owner and a race car driver, his wife, Eve, and their daughter, Zoe.  This is a wonderful book.  It goes very fast.  I found it almost impossible to put down.  The ending is very good and very sad.  You will understand when you read it.  This book deserves to be read!  Enjoy!
Gerard's Review posted 1/25/10

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Twenty Wishes" by Debbie Macomber

After reading several murder mysteries and then The Hunger Games I was ready for something uplifting so chose Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber.  This is contemporary fiction that I found to be heart warming and inspirational.  It’s about Ann Marie, owner of a bookstore and a terrier named Baxter who is a widow and gets together with a group of other widows who all make a list of 20 wishes which change their outlook and their life.  The main plot is about Ann Marie reluctantly volunteering to be a lunch buddy to a very shy 8-yr.old girl, Ellen, once a week at the school and how that not only changes her life, but how each of them make the others wishes come true.  This book is all about relationships and moving out of your comfort zone to live life. 

This book is full of romance, mother-daughter relationships, dealing with grief and moving forward with your life.  I liked this book because I loved the main story line about Ann Marie, her dog, her relationship with her stepdaughter and Ellen and think any woman would enjoy it.  The romance in it was also humorous.  It was a delightful read!  It inspired me to start a wish list too.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"No Dogs Allowed" by Bill Wallace

No Dogs Allowed by Bill Wallace is about Kristine, a 5th grader girl, who is afraid to let herself love her puppy because she is so sad the horse she loved died.  She doesn’t want to be hurt again.  Her father gave her a puppy for her birthday, but she did not want it.  I did not like Kristine at all.  She was mean to her puppy and was a stupid girl.  I was glad to see her attitude changed by the end of the book; however, it was too little too late for me.  I felt the best part was when her grandfather told her off about there being a difference between training a dog and making a dog terrified of you.  I only recommend this book to people who can identify with Kristine because they are afraid to love because they might be hurt.

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Hiss and Tell: True Stories from the Files of a Cat Behaviorist" by Pam Johnson-Bennet

Hiss and Tell:  True Stories from the Files of a Cat Behaviorist--
Insights To Explaining Cat Behavior by Pam Johnson-Bennett was extremely interesting to me because I love cats and it explained some of the puzzling behaviors that can arise. I found it fascinating that this woman was able to actually think like a cat to figure out what was causing the strange behaviors. It is both humorous and educational. I recommend it highly to any cat owner.
(Karen's review 7/1/08)

"Sophie's Heart" by Lori Wick

Sophie's Heart is a contemporary, heartwarming Christian romance about a grieving widower and his three children who hire Sophie, a Christian immigrant from Czechoslovakia, to be their cook and housekeeper. It's a fun journey seeing how the family comes to love Sophie and how she slowly becomes more Americanized. Throughout the book, the author reveals Sophie's heart through her prayers and one can see what it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ by reading this book. I enjoyed Sophie's interaction with her friends, her driving instructor, Alec but most of all with his children. It was refreshing to see how the oldest one, Rita, helped her instead of resenting her. This book gives great insight into what Christian living is all about!  One of my favorites.
 (Karen's review 5/1/09)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Elliot Allagash" by Simon Rich

Elliot Allagash by Simon Rich is about a very rich kid, Elliot, who tries to make the least liked kid, Seymour, popular. Has some very funny moments and a great ending. It teaches a lesson we can all learn from this quick read. I enjoyed it. 
(Gerard's review)

This short novel, Elliot Allagash, by Simon Rich is a funny novel about an evil rich boy who tries to prove he can make, Seymour Herson, the least popular kid in school the most popular.  At first Seymour goes along with it, thankful that he has a friend.  Through manipulating, lying, Elliot not only makes Seymour popular, but also corrupts his character in the process.  When Seymour finally has enough and confronts Elliot, he finds himself on Elliot’s “enemy” list but learns that popularity is not so important after all.  I enjoyed this book and recommend it to teens.

(Karen's review)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

Please Stop Laughing At Me: One Woman's Inspirational Story by Jodee Blanco

If you were picked on in high school and grade school like I was, this book brings back all the painful memories that you NEVER EVER forget! I'm so sorry you had to go through all this, Jodee. I was right there with you! So glad you wrote your book. I wish I had. 

God bless you, Jodee. Hope you enjoy great success in your life. Can't wait to read the sequel. Jodee is right. Teachers do nothing. Parents do nothing. You are on your own! I finished this book in just two days.

(GERARD'S REVIEW 6/15/08)

Please Stop Laughing At Me:  One Woman's Inspirational Story by Jodee Blanco is an autobiography of Jodee's struggles all through school. She tries to stand up for what is right and gets shunned and ostracized. She keeps wanting to "fit in" but doesn't know how without being untrue to herself. Near the end she finally gets some real friends. She takes a lot of abuse from kids who once were her friends, but deals as best she can looking forward to her future at college. I think teens would especially like this book.
(KAREN'S REVIEW 6/20/08)

"Prairie Tale" by Melissa Gilbert

Prairie Tale by Melissa Gilbert is a real eye opener.  The adopted child actress who was in the hit show, "Little House On the Prairie," shares her personal moments, feelings, struggles and triumphs in her own search for identity.  I learned so much about her as a real person and was shocked at some of the things she did.  Her life had lots of ups and downs, all of which contributed to who she is today.  This book gives the reader a look at the acting profession and Hollywood from the inside.  Melissa Gilbert is a great actress who got sucked into the wild life of drugs, alcohol and sex but was able to finally get the help she needed to overcome it.  I enjoyed learning who she really is.
(Karen's Review 7/26/09)
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What an amazing story!  When I found out Melissa had written a book, I knew one thing--I had to read that book!  It took awhile for me to finally get it from the library but it sure was worth the wait.  Whatever you think you know about Melissa, trust me, you don't.  But the good news is you will after you read this book.  What a story Melissa has to tell!  To say I was surprised would be an understatement.  You will laugh and cry; all emotions are in play in PRAIRIE TALE.  One thing you won't be is bored!  My two favorite parts of the book are her Little House years and her relationship with Rob Lowe.  The ending is just outstanding too.  Super job, Melissa!  My expectations were met and then some!   

Gerard's Review 7/18/09)

"Justice In June" Book Giveaway

Crazy For Books is giving away this one!   Justice in June by Barbara Levenson is a new book, just published June 1, 2010 about a defense attorney handling three big cases at once.

It's raining, it's pouring, but the life of criminal defense attorney Mary Magruder Katz is anything but boring - especially when she gets caught up in a whirlwind of three different cases.

Go ahead and enter the giveaway!

Blockade Billy by Stephen King

Blockade Billy by Stephen King is a novel about a guy who comes up to be a fill-in catcher for a major league team.  He loves to block home plate in close plays--hence, the name of the book.  I enjoyed it.  Good twist at the end, Stephen King style!

(Gerard's review 6/22/10)

(spoiler alert)
Blockade Billy by Stephen King is a book that I wish I hadn’t wasted my time reading.  The only good thing was that it is short.  It’s about a catcher who really isn’t who he said and who turned out to be a killer.  When the crowd yelled “Kill the umpire,” Blockade Billy took it literally.  I gave this a chance because I like baseball and that’s what it was about but no more Stephen King for me.

(Karen's review 9/25/10)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Hats and Eyeglasses: A Family Affair With Gambling" by Martha Frankel

Hats and Eyeglasses:  A Family Affair With Gambling is a true story about a woman who enjoyed watching her parents play cards. Then she played and was good at it. Then discovered online poker and other card games. Fun read. Goes fast, good characters. No deep thought process needed with this one.
(Gerard's review 6/18/08)

"Deeper Than The Dead" by Tami Hoag

Deeper Than The Dead by Tami Hoag is a murder mystery with many victims.  It is a real tragedy in more ways than one.  The author does a fantastic job of delving into the four families of the children who find a dead woman buried in the park and their teacher who is truly concerned about them.  Another dimension of the book is the criminal investigation, which includes an FBI agent falling in love with the teacher and a deputy who is the father of a bully who is one of the boys who discovered the dead body in the park.  I liked the insight into the different families who all had issues.  I felt bad for all the children and enjoyed the surprise twists that kept popping up along the way.  It certainly was not predictable and kept my interest all the way through.  It was a fast read and I recommend it to anyone who likes a good mystery.  
(Karen's Review 2/22/10)

Awesome book!  Page turner!  I really enjoyed Deeper Than The Dead by Tami Hoag!  One day four children come across a dead body in the park and from there this book takes off.  The story line between the kids, their parents, the school teacher and the detective trying to solve the crime is superb.  Throw in a lot of of twists and turns and a surprise ending and you get this great book!  Deeper Than The Dead got my attention at page 1 and kept it all the way through.   A MUST READ!  This was the first book I read by Tami, but will be back for more!
(Gerard's Review 2/11/10) (5+ stars)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Open" by Andre Agassi

I found Open, the autobiography of Andre Agassi, very interesting.  The relationship with his father is good stuff in the beginning of the book.  That he quit school after 8th grade was something that I did not know.  I enjoyed the part of what he was thinking while playing the matches.  I could have done without the match to match detail.  The best part of this book was finding out that I really didn’t know what made Agassi tick at all!  It’s a bit long but overall it’s a book worth reading. (4 stars)
(Gerard's review 12/19/09)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?

"Joseph" by Shelia Moses

I did not care for Joseph by Shelia Moses.  It is teen fiction about Joseph, a high school boy who was a good student but had a tough home life.  His mom was a drug addict who only wanted him to get the child support checks to pay for her wine and drugs.  His dad was a soldier in Iraq who wanted to be there for Joseph.  Joseph was ashamed of his mother and the fact that they lived at a shelter, but felt he had to stay with her to take care of her.  His aunt took him and his mother in, but his mother left with some guy. 

This was sort of a depressing book without any closure.  I was very disappointed in the ending because nothing was really resolved except Joseph I guess came to the conclusion that he was not responsible for his mother and just prayed for God to help her.  The only thing I liked about this book was that Joseph was on the school tennis team and he felt good when he saw people come out to watch his match and support him.
(Karen's Review)

Please tell us: What categories of literature do you like? What are you reading now? Who are your top five favorite authors? Have you read this one? What did you think of it?