Series Review: Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth

Call the Midwife: a Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times by Jennifer Worth
Call the Midwife: Shadows of the Workhouse by Jennifer Worth
Call the Midwife: Farewell to the East End by Jennifer Worth
Publisher: Penguin Books
Publication date: Originally 2002, 2005, 2009
Source: Library
For: Love the PBS series!
Series: Midwife Trilogy (three memoirs)

 

Summary:
These are three volumes of Jennifer Lee Worth, who as a very young girl left her pretty cushy life to become a midwife and work in one of the poorest parts of London during the 1950s and 1960s.

Things I Liked:
These stories are incredible! I wish I'd read the books before watching the series, but I was still blown away! It is absolutely amazing and awful and beautiful the kinds of conditions these women who were giving birth lived in. The midwives are incredible as well, but I read some of these stories and just felt almost embarrassed at how much I have and how whiny I can be about it. A wonderful look at a specific time and place and the women who played such a vital role. The first book was the most interesting to me, being more of a general collection of stories from Worth's experiences. The second and third were more general and had fewer stories of midwifery and the interesting people she met. Still, all of them were worth every minute reading. Can't recommend it enough and I adore the series as well (though not as much with Nurse Lee gone from the scene).

Things I Didn't Like:
It's been quite some time since I read these, and I don't remember anything in particular I disliked. It is pretty frank about sex and childbirth, so not exactly light reading. Also, abuse and other awful circumstances.

Read-alikes:
Nothing I can think of!

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
yep

mrg-factor: XXX
not gratuitous, also not surprising considering the topic

v-factor: ->->
some of the stories are simply appalling

Overall rating: *****

Book Review: Pioneer Girl by Laura Ingalls Wilder and Pamela Smith Hill

Pioneer Girl by Laura Ingalls Wilder and Pamela Smith Hill (editor)
Publisher: South Dakota State Historical Society
Publication date: November 2014
Pages: 400
Source: Library
For: Fun

Summary (from goodreads):

Pioneer Girl follows the Ingalls family's journey through Kansas, Missouri, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, back to Minnesota, and on to Dakota Territory sixteen years of travels, unforgettable experiences, and the everyday people who became immortal through Wilder's fiction. Using additional manuscripts, letters, photographs, newspapers, and other sources, award-winning Wilder biographer Pamela Smith Hill adds valuable context and leads readers through Wilder's growth as a writer. Do you think you know Laura? Pioneer Girl: The Annotated Autobiography will re-introduce you to the woman who defined the pioneer experience for millions.

Things I Liked:
This took me AGES to read.  Mostly because I could only check it out two weeks at a time and everyone kept putting it on hold, so I couldn't renew it.  It is also a very big book and a bit daunting at times.  Still, I am so glad I persisted.  I don't even remember if I've read the Little House books all the way through, or just listened while my mom read them to my siblings.  It didn't really matter, because this story is the true one.  I loved how very detailed and full of notes it was.  I can't read something with that many footnotes often, but when I do, I usually love it.  It was fun to see the author differentiate between what was real and what they changed for the kids novels.  If you are a huge fan of the Little House books, pick this one up.  It will more than satisfy every question about her life you may have.

Things I Didn't Like:
It was a bit dry at times.  I guess life can be that way :). You have to be a real fan to take this one on, I think.

Read-alikes:
The Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder :)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Code Talker by Chester Nez

Code Talker by Chester Nez
Publisher: Berkley
Publication date: September 2011
Pages: 320
Source: Library
For: Interesting!

Summary (from goodreads):

Although more than 400 Navajos served in the military during World War II as top-secret code talkers, even those fighting shoulder to shoulder with them were not told of their covert function. And, after the war, the Navajos were forbidden to speak of their service until 1968, when the code was finally declassified. Of the original twenty- nine Navajo code talkers, only two are still alive. Chester Nez is one of them.

In this memoir, the eighty-nine-year-old Nez chronicles both his war years and his life growing up on the Checkerboard Area of the Navajo Reservation-the hard life that gave him the strength, both physical and mental, to become a Marine. His story puts a living face on the legendary men who developed what is still the only unbroken code in modern warfare.

Things I Liked:
This book really intrigued me.  I loved reading about those Native Americans who played such a unique and vital role in WWII.  His particular experiences made me realize just how little I know about the treatment of Native Americans in our history. I mean, I know it's always been bad, but this wasn't even always deliberately bad, just neglect and ignoring the kinds of things they experienced.  It was eye-opening and just plain sad.  I liked hearing it from his perspective and he never sounded bitter or angry about it.  His experiences during the war seemed so different from what the "usual" soldiers might have felt, but was still very painful and hard.  An inspiring and interesting read.

Things I Didn't Like:
I did like how it was really his words written down, but that also made for some grammar issues that I would notice and be annoyed about before remembering it was his direct narrative.

Read-alikes:
Can't think of any

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
some

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->->
he went to war!

Overall rating: ****

Book Review: As You Wish by Cary Elwes

As You Wish by Cary Elwes
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Publication date: October 2014
Length: 7 hrs, 1 min
Source: Audiobook from library
For: Fun!

Summary (from goodreads):

The Princess Bride has been a family favorite for close to three decades. Ranked by the American Film Institute as one of the top 100 Greatest Love Stories and by the Writers Guild of America as one of the top 100 screenplays of all time, The Princess Bride will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

Cary Elwes was inspired to share his memories and give fans an unprecedented look into the creation of the film while participating in the twenty-fifth anniversary cast reunion. In As You Wish he has created an enchanting experience; in addition to never-before seen photos and interviews with his fellow cast mates, there are plenty of set secrets, backstage stories, and answers to lingering questions about off-screen romances that have plagued fans for years!

Things I Liked:
I listened to this on audio, read mostly by Cary Elwes, as suggested by a number of people.  I do recall my mind drifting during quite a bit of the beginning where Elwes tells his story about joining the cast and meeting everyone and all that preproduction stuff.  When it finally got to the stories from the movie, I really enjoyed it.  I loved all the funny, quirky, and hilarious antics they all seemed to get up to.  It sounds almost like an extended family reunion.  It was a lot of fun to hear it in their own voices (some of them) too.

Things I Didn't Like:
Yeah, the beginning was hard for me.  Otherwise, it was super fun to hear about one of my favorite movies.  I watched it again not that long ago and took great pleasure in pointing out things about the scenes that I learned from the book to my husband.

Read-alikes:
Can't think of anything...

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ****

Book Review: I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication date: October 2013
Pages: 352
Source: Library
For: Fun

Summary (from goodreads):

I come from a country that was created at midnight. When I almost died it was just after midday.

When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education.

On Tuesday, October 9, 2012, when she was fifteen, she almost paid the ultimate price. She was shot in the head at point-blank range while riding the bus home from school, and few expected her to survive.

Instead, Malala's miraculous recovery has taken her on an extraordinary journey from a remote valley in northern Pakistan to the halls of the United Nations in New York. At sixteen, she has become a global symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

Things I Liked:
What a beautiful story! I love how down to earth Malala and her father sound, yet they are making an extraordinary difference in their country.  Her story makes you think you could stand up and make a difference too.  She is inspiring in her tireless efforts to not back down when told to stop going to school.  I'm amazed at her courage and strength, especially for one so young.

Things I Didn't Like:
It wasn't the most well-written book, but I think that is part of what makes you feel like you connect well with her.

Read-alikes:
Nothing I can think of...

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
she kind of lives with violence in her part of the world

Overall rating: *****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Packing for Mars by Mary Roach

Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void by Mary Roach
Publisher: W.W. Norton and Company
Publication date: August 2010
Pages: 336
Source: Library
For: Book Group

Summary (from goodreads):

Space is a world devoid of the things we need to live and thrive: air, gravity, hot showers, fresh produce, privacy, beer. Space exploration is in some ways an exploration of what it means to be human. How much can a person give up? How much weirdness can they take? What happens to you when you can’t walk for a year? have sex? smell flowers? What happens if you vomit in your helmet during a space walk? Is it possible for the human body to survive a bailout at 17,000 miles per hour?

To answer these questions, space agencies set up all manner of quizzical and startlingly bizarre space simulations. As Mary Roach discovers, it’s possible to preview space without ever leaving Earth. From the space shuttle training toilet to a crash test of NASA’s new space capsule (cadaver filling in for astronaut), Roach takes us on a surreally entertaining trip into the science of life in space and space on Earth.

Things I Liked:
Mary Roach, where have you been all my life? Just kidding, but I really love the way she writes interesting nonfiction. I struggle to want to read NF a lot, but this book made me love it.  I love space, and pretty much would have loved a dry, boring book about all the crazy stuff that zero-g does to humans, but Roach made this book awesome by just basically being funny the whole time.  Seriously, if you have to write about puke and poop on space shuttles, you may as well make it fun.  I could pull quotes from pretty much every page that made me laugh.  She's witty, she's good at what she does.  Interesting stuff.

Things I Didn't Like:
She has a serious potty mouth and everything has something to do with sex.  And sometimes, I was a tad bored, but I still loved it.

Read-alikes:
Stiff by Mary Roach

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#
quite a few, several f-bombs

mrg-factor: XXX
plenty of talk about sex, a bit of it crude

v-factor: none

Overall rating: *****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Family Romanov by Candace Fleming

The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia by Candace Fleming
Publisher: Random House Children's
Publication date: July 2014
Pages: 304
Source: Library
For: Award winners :)

Summary (from goodreads):

Here is the tumultuous, heartrending, true story of the Romanovs—at once an intimate portrait of Russia's last royal family and a gripping account of its undoing. Using captivating photos and compelling first person accounts, award-winning author Candace Fleming (Amelia Lost; The Lincolns) deftly maneuvers between the imperial family’s extravagant lives and the plight of Russia's poor masses, making this an utterly mesmerizing read

Things I Liked:
I thought this book was really well written and researched. I was fascinated with the details and especially with the glimpses outside the family. They were so painfully unaware of all that went on in their country, it's hard to believe. It is amazing what lengths people will go to to retain power, even if they "don't want it," as Nicholas said several times. I remember going to an exhibit on Nicholas and Alexandra when I was a teen and being super fascinated by their story. It is just so horrifying and the history of the Russian people at this time (and during a number of other times) is so sad that I can't get it out of my head. I know I read a biography (or two) of the Romanovs, but I still felt like I knew almost nothing about the time period and the lower classes. Great book to introduce this period of time to young people!

Things I Didn't Like:
Nothing I can think of!

Read-alikes:
Nicholas and Alexandra by Robert K. Massie (this is one of the books I read about them quite a while ago)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none
well, maybe one or two incidental ones

mrg-factor: none

v-factor: ->->
considering their violent demise, this was expected

Overall rating: *****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Mini Reviews 18

Hey, not only is this the last of the mini reviews (for a while), but it's the last of my 2014 book reviews! I'm only five months behind - yeah?


Death Comes to Pemberley by P.D. James

Summary:
When Elizabeth Darcy's sister Lydia shows up unannounced at Pemberley, the Darcy's quiet world is shattered.  Wickham and their friend Denny got into an argument and Denny is found dead.  Wickham is the chief suspect and that brings even more shame to the Darcy family name, as Mr. Darcy's brother-in-law.  Can Elizabeth and Darcy hold their position and their family together under such pressure?

My Thoughts:
This one suffered in comparison to the mini series.  I watched it first and then read the book and not only was the fun taken out of the mystery, since I knew who had done it, but I found it a lot less exciting and intense than the show.  I admit the mini series took some liberties that I laughed at, particularly with regard to Lizzy's role in the whole thing.  Still, it made the book seem a lot slower and more boring.  Plus, mystery still isn't my favorite genre of choice.  Meh.
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The Shadow Throne by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Summary:
Carthya is on the brink of war and Jaron is fighting to keep his throne.  But when an unexpected threat arises, he is about to risk all in order to keep what is his.  He is ready to make a desperate move to save the kingdom, the throne, and those he cares about. Will it be enough?

My Thoughts:
I really liked the start of the series, and I am satisfied by the ending and how everything turned out. I remember enjoying the action and the excitement of watching Jeron do crazy things for his throne and his love.  I love how Nielsen is able to plot twists that are fantastic and that I don't usually see coming, though a few of them I do.  But, to be honest, it's been a few months and I can't remember much of what happened.  So, I guess there's that against it.
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Curtsies & Conspiracies by Gail Carriger

Summary:
Sophronia continues her training as a spy and this time is caught up in a conspiracy brooding in London.  As their floating school makes its way straight into the heart of the trouble, she and her friends must discover who is behind this plot before it's too late for them all.

My Thoughts:
Well, this series is fun to read when you just want a lark.  There are plenty of politics (of the supernatural variety) and intrigue going on to keep you reading.  Also, I really like Sophronia, despite her doing some really annoying things in the romance department.  I think I do read them for the characters and the silliness.  Definitely a nice break from serious stuff (not that I was reading serious stuff anyway.)
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In the Dark Streets Shineth: A 1941 Christmas Eve Story by David McCullough

Summary from goodreads:

Christmas Eve, 1941. Mere days after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt met at the White House. As war raged throughout the world, the two leaders delivered a powerful message of hope that still resonates today.

My Thoughts:
This is basically a transcript from a program McCullough did with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir for a Christmas program (I did read this around Christmas - I was super proud of myself for doing some thematic reading, since I don't usually - too bad I didn't get a review posted until May).  But it was too short and I really wanted more details about the historical period.  There was an interesting address by PM Churchill that made me want to read a bio of him (now to figure out which of the 3 billion to read).
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Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Summary:
An autobiography of the author written in verse, describes her childhood and youth and all that led her to writing stories and becoming the person she is today.

My Thoughts:
Love, love love it!  This was fantastic.  I know why this won the National Book Award (and other delightful shiny stickers). It is written so, so well (and I sometimes have a hard time with verse novels).  The story is amazing and I adored hearing more about the time period and the things Jacqueline dealt with.  Her family were awesome (well, most of them)!
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Chime by Franny Billingsley

Summary:
Briony is living with so many secrets and so much guilt, she can hardly breathe some days.  Determined never to let anyone know just what she's done, she leads a painful life of deception.  Until she begins to see that things might not have been as she thought.

My Thoughts:
This book was super weird and interesting and confusing.  I can't believe how long it took me to get to it (I got an ARC way back when).  I was sucked in from the first page!  The story was convoluted and I had no idea what was going on a lot of the time, but I have to admit I was wowed.  I loved how the end came about and how things just sort of clicked.  Intriguing, strange, and very gorgeously written!

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Mini Reviews 14

Time to play catch up on 2014 books and a whole slew of mini reviews are headed your way.  Enjoy?


Switched by Amanda Hocking

Summary: 
Wendy hasn't had an easy life, what with her mother trying to kill her when she was six.  But, things are about to get way more complicated when a mysterious guy comes to take her "home." She's a changeling and now she's thrown into a whole new magical world that she has no idea how to navigate.

My Thoughts:
Blech, blah, ugh.  If this hadn't been for a book group, I would have chucked it long and hard.  I did not enjoy the writing (a rather kind way of putting it), the characters made me crazy, the story was derivative, and I just didn't care what happened.  After having a book club member who loved it tell me what happens in the rest of the series, I'm soooooo glad I didn't bother reading more.  Save yourself from this book. (Whew, sorry that was such a nasty review - I had a pretty strong reaction. Lots of other people really like this series, so read some other opinions before writing it off completely :)
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House of Secrets by Chris Columbus and Ned Vizzini
Summary:
When Cordelia, Brendan, and Eleanor move into a mysterious new mansion, they expect to have adventures. Just not to be thrown into a world full of warriors, pirates, and evil queens. Now they have to figure out just where they are and how they will get home again.

My Thoughts:
I had a lovely friend recommend this to me. I still like that friend. I did not like this book. Almost in the first three chapters I wanted to stop reading, but made myself continue so that I could return it and tell her I finished. The writing left much to be desired. Every other sentence had a product drop (this will age the book very quickly) and I couldn't bring myself to care about characters who didn't have much in the way of personality. Also, the plot was very convoluted, all over the place, and not entirely sure where it was going. Not worth the time spent reading it, I felt.
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What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty
Summary:
During an ordinary day at the gym, Alice falls and suffers some memory loss - as in the last ten years of her life. Alice only remembers being in love with her husband, expecting her first child, and loving where she was at in life. She is forced to face the truth of her 10 years older life - getting divorced, three children, and completely different from who she was before. So, which Alice is she?

My Thoughts:
Hey, I actually enjoyed this one :). I bet you thought this whole post would be full of negative reviews. Anyway, we read this for book group as well and I found it really fascinating. What I liked most wasn't even the story or characters, it was the idea of looking back at myself ten years ago and wondering if I would like who I am now. We change in such subtle ways we might not notice until we are somewhere completely different. Also, because of my personal experiences with infertility, I was dying for more of Elizabeth's story. Thought-provoking.
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Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand

Summary:
This tells the story of Louis Zamperini, former Olympian runner who gets caught up World War II as an airman. His incredible story of survival of a plane crash, days adrift at sea, and as a prisoner of war will enthrall and horrify. But his survival and how he deals with all of it, will inspire.

My Thoughts:
This is a powerful story. I love how detailed and very well-researched this book was. As I was reading, I kept thinking Louis' life couldn't get any more horrifying. And then it would. It always seems like I read fiction because it is more interesting than real life. This disproves that 1000 times over. Near the end, I was super depressed, because he really just struggles so much and against such terrible odds. And then he finally comes home and he has to deal with the emotional and physical toll that being imprisoned and tortured left on him. But the most beautiful part of all is what the title suggests. He was unbroken. It's a tough read, but if you get to the end, you will see your life in a whole new way.
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Matilda by Roald Dahl

Summary:
Matilda is pretty much a genius, but brushed off by her uninterested parents. She hoped school would be different, but Ms. Trunchbull the evil school mistress is determined to squelch any fire of Matilda's spirit. But Matilda is determined to fight back.

My Thoughts:
I'd never read this book as a kid and I really enjoyed watching Matilda discover herself and deal with the difficult family she had. I was a bit surprised at how there doesn't seem to be much of a story, though. It was much more simplistic and convenient (particularly the very end) to be believable. I'm quite sure I'd have loved it as a kid, but reading it as an adult, I found it just a bit ridiculous.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Bomb by Steve Sheinkin

Bomb: The Race to Build--and Steal--the World's Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin
Publisher: Flash Point
Publication date: September 2012
Pages: 272
Source: Library
For: Fun (and Newbery reading)

Summary from goodreads:

In December of 1938, a chemist in a German laboratory made a shocking discovery: When placed next to radioactive material, a Uranium atom split in two. That simple discovery launched a scientific race that spanned 3 continents. In Great Britain and the United States, Soviet spies worked their way into the scientific community; in Norway, a commando force slipped behind enemy lines to attack German heavy-water manufacturing; and deep in the desert, one brilliant group of scientists was hidden away at a remote site at Los Alamos. This is the story of the plotting, the risk-taking, the deceit, and genius that created the world's most formidable weapon. This is the story of the atomic bomb.

Things I Liked:
It's no secret that I don't read a lot of non-fiction.  It's not even that I don't like it, it's more that I have a hard time deciding what will interest me and what won't.  Well, this book had no trouble at all interesting me.  I was fascinated from beginning to end.  It was energetic and it never seemed to drag or get too detailed or boring.  I loved seeing the story from so many different perspectives and it really was interesting to hear about people who wanted to build it, steal it, and find out where their enemies were at in this same process.  Great, great nonfiction.

Things I Didn't Like:
The only thing I wished was that there were more photos/news clippings or something throughout the text.  It definitely could have done with some breaking up of the chapters more with visuals.  There were some at the beginning of each chapter and some at the very end, but seeing them while you're reading about it is my favorite.

Read-alikes:
Not sure if I can think of any...

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a few here and there

mrg-factor:none

v-factor:->->
well, the bombs were dropped and it talks about first-hand experiences - not in too much detail though

Overall rating: *****

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Mini Reviews 10

It's been months since my last mini reviews and it's about time I get some of these books reviewed!  So, enjoy.

The Candy Shop War, Book 2: Arcade Catastrophe by Brandon Mull
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: October 2012
Pages: 416
Source: ARC from ALA
For: Review
Series: Candy Shop War, Book 2

The kids are now battling for stamps that give them magical powers.  They are caught up in a plot by another evil magician to find a magical object so powerful he would control the world.  They must fight and race against each other and against other kids in order to gain access to this magical

My thoughts:
This book definitely has the signature Mull imaginative story.  With stamps that give magical powers and an evil magician seeking to take over the world, the kids face seemingly insurmountable odds.  There are so many strange and quirky characters and artifacts that it seems Mull has unlimited stores of weird ideas.  There's plenty of action and the end will keep you guessing right to the last page.  But, I had a really hard time wanting to keep reading.  It seemed to drag on for a really long time and I lost interest often in what was happening with the kids.  I got annoyed at the many side tracks that seemed to happen throughout.  I put down the book a number of times and finally had to force myself to finish.  I think fans of Fablehaven will get a kick out of this story.
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The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Publication date: originally published 1961
Pages: 6 hrs 57 min
Source: Audiobook from library
For: Driving Sanity

Daniel's one purpose in life is to avenge his father's death at the hands of the Romans.  He's left his sister in the care of his aging grandmother in order to join a band of rebels intent on breaking free of the Romans.  But when his life takes a different turn he little expects to be drawn to Jesus, a rabbi who teaches something completely different than what he wants, but who he can't seem to forget about.

My thoughts:
I never read enough historical fiction and when I do, I am reminded just how great well-written and researched historical fiction is.  I loved the setting - it's definitely unusual in YA and MG literature.  I loved how natural Daniel's progression is through the story.  The characters were flawed and therefore more real - even if I did get mad at Daniel's hardheadedness a few times.  They believed what was natural for them at the time and they made mistakes that hurt.  It was also unique to see the focus of the story not on Jesus' death and resurrection, but on his power to heal - both physically and in other ways.  I wasn't very pleased with the narrator, but I thought she did an ok job (look up narrator).  A powerful book, one that left an impression on me.
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The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley
Publisher: Recorded Books
Publication date: originally published 1982
Pages: 12 hrs 16 min
Source: Audiobook from library
For: Driving Sanity

When Harry is sent to live with her brother in Istan, a place right on the outskirts of the empire, she finds that the change in country suits her.  But she is strangely drawn to the Hillfolk - an independent people with mysterious powers that her country has long been unable to conquer.  When the king of the Hillfolk visits their home to try negotiating a treaty, he is disappointed in the Homelanders mistrust of his people.  Harry, however, can't seem to get the people out of her mind and heart.  And her destiny is closely tied to these strange people.

My thoughts:
This is still one of my favorite fantasy stories of all time.  I've reviewed this one before on the blog, but decided to listen to the audio for fun.  I found the story still intrigues me with its glorious details and I still love Harry for all her wild and difficult ways.  However, I really struggled with the audiobook.  The narrator, Diane Warren, used strange random pauses in the middle of sentences and in places where pauses didn't make sense.  Her voices were not that well done or distinguishable and I just didn't want to listen.  I would have given up if I didn't want to remember the story and if I hadn't had nothing else to listen to on my commute at the time.  Definitely one to pick up in print.
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Miles to Go for Freedom: Segregation and Civil Rights in the Jim Crow Years by Linda Barnett Osborne
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 128
Source: Library
For: Fun

This book recounts the history of segregation and civil rights during the period from the 1890s to 1954.  Discussing the Jim Crow years both in the North and the South from first hand accounts and other sources.

My Thoughts:
I learned tons from this book and it wasn't hard to keep reading it - a perfect combination for nonfiction, I think.  I keep realizing just how ignorant I am about civil rights, Jim Crow laws, black history, and so much more.  I liked that this focused on a time period that I didn't know a lot about (or much of anything).  I was completely surprised to learn that African Americans had way more rights in the late 1800s than they did like 40 years later.  It's painful to read about those rights being slowly sucked away.  This was readable and very well researched.

Any thoughts on these?  Ones you've read or want to read?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Heaven is Here by Stephanie Nielsen

Heaven Is Here: An Incredible Story of Hope, Triumph, and Everyday Joy by Stephanie Nielsen
Publisher: Hyperion
Publication date: April 2012
Pages: 320
Source: Library
For: Because I read her blog

When Stephanie Nielsen and her husband and friend were in a horrific plane crash, she had no idea just how much her life would change. But finding her way in life post-crash, while it has its ups and downs, has helped her focus on those small things, those beautiful details in life that she can cherish because she knows just how close she was to losing them.

Things I Liked:
What an absolutely riveting, amazing, powerful, heart-wrenching, hopeful, and every emotion in between story.  I have been a reader of NieNie Dialogues for a few years now, but I think I didn't start reading her blog until after her accident.  I remember some of the brave and amazing and overwhelmingly difficult things she talked about and I was completely blown away by all she didn't talk about (but which you can discover in this book).  Her experiences are amazing, but what really shines is her ability, with the help of God, her husband, children, family, and friends, to overcome the mountains of challenges she faces.  I think it can be enjoyed by those who are LDS (or Mormon) like me and those who are not, just as her blog is enjoyed by both.  I loved the evolution of how she views herself, especially in regards to physical appearance.  It is easy to say that appearance doesn't matter when we are pretty, but it is even harder after you've experienced being different than everyone else.  Just a wonderful story made all the more powerful because it is true.

Things I Didn't Like:
It was a bit hard for me to read about her experiences so soon after my nephew's passing, but it also brought some comfort, seeing her family gather around her and support her and hearing how she was able to overcome her challenges.  The writing is not great, but I think it makes up for that in honesty.  I highly recommend this one to anyone who is feeling sorry for themselves or needs a boost of morale to keep going in difficult times. 

Read-alikes:
Reminds me of books like Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom and The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch and even The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom
 
BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none
(that I recall)

mrg-factor: X
some references to her relationship with her husband

v-factor: ->
not violence exactly, but the crash was pretty horrific and those parts can be disturbing

Overall rating: *****

How do you feel about inspirational memoirs?

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Mini Reviews 7

I'm still trying to get back into blogging, but it's hard.  Bear with me as I try to get back into the swing of things.  And thank you again to everyone for your kind comments regarding the death of my nephew.  Know they are very much appreciated.

Two of these are audiobooks, which makes me happy because June is audiobook month and there are a number of celebrations going on (check those out at ReadingTeen and Devourer of Books).  Yeah for hands-free, commute-saving books! :)


Under the Jolly Roger: Being an Account of the Further Nautical Adventures of Jacky Faber by L.A. Meyer
Publisher: Listen & Live Audio, Inc.
Publication date: 2005 (HC)
Length: 14 hrs, 43 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Fun (and to make my commute bearable)
Series: Bloody Jack, Book 3

Jacky is back with more adventures and finally back at sea.  As she leaves the girls' school in Boston to find her way back to Jaimy, she little expects to find things just as messy in England as they were in America.  When things don't go according to plan, she ends up back in the navy's service and in danger once again.  Will she ever get out of trouble or will she have to fight for her life again?

My thoughts:
Ah, Jacky.  You never change.  Except when you do.  I love this series and this book just fed that love.  Jacky kind of comes into her own a bit in this one and truly has chances to shine.  I love how confidently she acts, yet how vulnerable she feels.  Despite defying convention, she does want to fit somewhere in the world.  And I do just love (sometimes) how she can't make herself behave, even when her head is telling her what she's doing isn't smart.  The adventures are fun, if slightly unbelievable, and Jacky always inspires laughter with her antics and trouble-making skills.  Highly enjoyable, particularly in audiobook form, as I've recommended before.  I don't recommend listening to or reading them all at once, because I got a bit burned out on Jacky adventures.  The adventures all start to be the same and they also are getting progressively more bawdy and full of cussing.  It's not exactly a younger teen series, but will be fun for fans of historical fiction that makes you laugh, along the lines of Karen Cushman.  And I would be remiss without mentioning Katherine Kellgren, who seriously makes these audiobooks so much fun to listen to - voice inflections and accents and singing?  She does it all and does it well.   
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The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale
Publisher: Full Cast Audio
Publication date: 2003 (HC)
Length: 10 hrs, 7 min
Source: Audiobook from Library
For: Book Group
Series: Books of Bayern, Book 1

When Crown Princess Anidori is sent to a distant kingdom to marry an unknown prince, she is surprised, sad, and more than a little lost.  But when her lady in waiting does the unthinkable on their long journey, Ani is left wondering just who she is and if she can be a princess anymore. 

My thoughts:
This was a reread (relisten?) for me and I just love the story every time I pick it up.  I marvel at the beautiful writing Shannon Hale crafted and the way the story seems predictable, but also isn't.  The world is so vivid that you feel you are a part of it, like you can hear the wind whispering and the animals speaking.  Just a beautiful story.  It translated really well to audio, especially with the full cast that was used - each character having their own unique voices.  Erica Lustig (Ani) was excellent, as was Anna McGee (Selia) and a number of other smaller characters like Seth Jackson (Razo) and Emily Holden (Enna).  I think they really brought the story to life.
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Northanger Alibi by Jenni James
Publisher: Brigham Distributing
Publication date: February 2012
Pages: 243
Source: Won from Goodreads First Reads
For: Fun
Series: The Jane Austen Diaries, Book 2

When Claire gets a chance to visit her favorite place on earth - Washington State - she is certain going to Edward Cullen's home will be perfect.  But she's even more surprised when she discovers Tony Russo is undoubtedly a vampire too.  When her sister doesn't believe it, she sets out to prove it's true.  

My thoughts:
This is a fun, fluffy, light book that plays the Twilight-obsessed game quite well.  I loved how ridiculous Claire was and how funny it was to see her turn her Twilight obsession to reality.  I think the idea of a Twilight groupie's fascination with vampires and werewolves lends itself very well to a retelling of Northanger Abbey - the heroine with too much imagination from reading too many Gothic novels.  The story verges on the ridiculous at times, but that is part of its charm.  Despite the rough writing and sometimes odd dialog (this is not what I'd call literary), it was a quick and fun beach read.
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Insurgent by Veronica Roth
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: May 2012
Pages: 544
Source: Library
For: Dystopian Challenge (and fun, of course)
Series: Divergent, Book 2

In the aftermath of the unrest from the Erudite attack, Tris is dealing with unimaginable grief and guilt.  She and her friends from Dauntless and her brother are hiding from those who might try to kill them.  But when the fractures in the factions leads to more violence, she must make more choices - ones that could destroy all that she loves or save them.  

My thoughts:
I think everything that could possibly be said about this has been said - both the good and the bad, which is why I chose to do it in mini form.  I'll just indicate that I liked it, it had some very exciting and heart-pounding parts (at least, at the end) and I like the direction the ending is headed.  All that hype and the rave reviewing left me feeling a bit wary of this book, so I was perhaps more prepared to be annoyed by it, but I still found the first half to be a bit dull - especially in comparison to the non-stop action of the first book.  I was also a bit annoyed by the Four and Tris's back and forth and trust and lies thing, but it was a pretty realistic relationship issue.  Despite not guessing exactly where the story was going, and being frustrated that it took so long to get there, the ending didn't surprise me.  I think she introduced it slowly enough that it made sense to me more than surprised me.  My biggest complaint (and it was mostly my fault) was the numerous side characters whose names, relationships, and former and current factions I couldn't keep straight.  There were just too many and they distracted from the main characters importance at times.  Roth does write quite well and her action and exciting story kept me reading through all 500+ pages (a bit over the top, I think, but not unusual).  I eagerly await the last book, along with everyone else.
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The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery by Steve Sheinkin
Publisher: Flash Point
Publication date: November 2010
Pages: 352
Source: Library
For: Fun

Most people know next to nothing about Benedict Arnold - except he was a traitor to the country during the American Revolution.  This book brings to life the fiery character who played many important roles in the revolution - most of them before he became a traitor.

My thoughts:
Despite everyone knowing the name Benedict Arnold, I think few of us know much about this historical figure.  I certainly didn't.  And boy, does that title truly describe what the story was like!  He really did do a lot of adventuring and the good things he did for the country are very worthy of note.  The book itself is actually very readable for non-fiction and I think would be a good hit especially for boys interested in history and adventure.  Despite it having taken me nearly a month to finish, I think it is a fast read.  There were chapters about side characters that didn't interest me as much, but I don't think it was the fault of the book.  It was interesting to read of his downfall and possible reasons why he would betray the country he fought so hard for.  I didn't know anything about what he actually did to betray the US, but it was a truly interesting story.  I was impressed by just how many events had to fall into place in order for everything to work out as it did for our country.  Another unique piece in the puzzle of our history.

Have you read any of these?  Which sounds the most interesting to you?

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