Wayne Discussion Blog

Sweet Shawlettes by Jean Moss

2012-01-11T18:05:00.003-05:00

Sweet Shawlettes is sweet! A wonderful selection of patterns in a variety of skill levels! There is something for every knitter in this book and they would make nice gifts! The yarns selected are available online or in yarn shops and a list of the yarns with details is included in the book. Instructions are available on how to read the charts. (The charts in the ebook version are very difficult to decifer lets hope it changes at publication time.) And included is advice on selecting buttons and other accessories to use with the knitted patterns. Overall, I love the book and can hardly wait until it comes out in print!

Book Discussions for January 2012

2011-12-13T16:00:00.000-05:00

Join us at Wayne Public Library for one of our many Book Discussion Groups!
There is a variety of interesting books to read and discuss!
You can also read one and blog about it right here!

BookLetters for January 2012

2011-12-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

BookLetters Advanced Titles for January 2012 are here! Visit the Wayne Public Library website to sign up and receive your newsletter today!

Ford County by John Grisham

2011-11-15T15:42:00.002-05:00

In his first collection of short stories John Grisham takes readers back to Ford County, Mississippi, the setting of his first novel, "A Time to Kill." Featuring a cast of characters readers will never forget, these stories bring Ford County to vivid and colorful life. This wholly surprising collection reminds readers once again why Grisham is one of America's favorite storytellers.

Autumn Lover by Elizabeth Lowell

2011-11-15T15:37:00.004-05:00

Returning to her Wyoming ranch at the Civil War's end, Elyssa Sutton finds it picked bare by scavengers and coveted by determined men. Yet the proud young woman vows never again to abandon her Ruby Mountain home, though it means enlisting the aid of a dark and dangerous stranger who lives for revenge alone.
Hunter Maxwell has suffered from the savagery of outlaws and the faithlessness of a woman. And he will trust no female - nor will he rest until the raiders who destroyed his family pay for their crimes.
A woman in, need, a man in pain, in fury and fire they must now stand as one to fight for something cherished, something lost ... and for a passion neither dreamed could live.
In the brisk chill of Autumn, ravaged hearts will be reborn.

"Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter" by Tom Franklin

2011-11-02T10:22:00.003-04:00

This novel is among many things, a coming-of-age story. How did the characters come into themselves as the story progressed? What possibilities might the future hold for Larry and Silas?

For more information about the author, check out:http://www.harpercollins.com/authors/19243/Tom_Franklin/index.aspx

Between Sisters by Kristin Hannah

2011-09-29T16:39:00.001-04:00

Meghann Dontess is haunted by heartbreak. Twenty-seven years ago she was forced to make a terrible choice, one that cost her everything, including the love of her sister, Claire. Now, Meghann is a hotshot divorce attorney who doesn't believe in intimacy--until she meets the one man who can change her mind. Claire Cavenaugh has fallen in love for the first time in her life. As her wedding day approaches, she prepares to face her harsh, judgmental older sister. It is the first time they have been together in more than two decades. Over the course of a hot Pacific Northwest summer, these two women who believe they have nothing in common will try to become what they never were: a family.

Hot Water by Erin Brockovich

2011-09-29T16:22:00.003-04:00

Environmental activist AJ Palladino has her hands full when she is asked to leave for for a case at a nuclear power plant. Managing work and family life and battling her ex-father in law over custody of her son, she has challenges! There are many twists and turns and plenty of action to keep one reading and there is a real surprise at the end that you won't want to miss!

The book release is November 8, 2011.

"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

2011-09-28T10:12:00.003-04:00

Why is the novel usually considered a work of feminist literature?

For more information about Louisa May Alcott, check out:

www.empirezine.com/spotlight/alcott/alcott.htm

To read works by Louisa May Alcott online, search under the authors field at:

http://www.gutenberg.org/

Night Road by Kristin Hannah

2011-09-20T14:29:00.007-04:00

"Night Road" is a vivid, emotionally complex novel that raises profound questions about motherhood, loss, identity, and forgiveness. It is an exquisite, heartbreaking novel that speaks to women everywhere about the things that matter most. How do you feel about Jude blaming Lexi for the accident? Why do you think Lexi returned Zack's letters with out reading them first?

"Deception" by Denise Mina

2011-08-31T11:05:00.002-04:00

"Deception" is told from the viewpoint of Lachlan Harriot. Is his perspective reliable and accurate?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.denisemina.co.uk/

Go behind the scene in NYC

2011-08-29T11:28:00.005-04:00

In Linda Fairstein’s award-winning Alexandra Cooper series you get more than just an edge-of-your-seat mystery. Each book takes you behind-the-scenes at some of New York City’s most famous landmarks. In The Bone Vault the discovery of a mummified body has Alex tracking a killer inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Natural History and The Cloisters. In Entombed, when a body is discovered behind the wall of a Greenwich Village brownstone, Alex finds herself following in the footsteps of a killer well-versed in the tales of Edgar Allan Poe. Bad Blood takes Alex miles underground and into the secret world of the Sandhogs.

Reading order:
• Final Jeopardy (1996)
• Likely To Die (1997)
• Cold Hit (1999)
• The Deadhouse (2001)
• The Bone Vault (2003)
• The Kills (2004)
• Entombed (2005)
• Death Dance (2006)
• Bad Blood (2007)
• Killer Heat (2008)
• Lethal Legacy (2009)
• Hell Gate (2010)
• Silent Mercy (March 2011)

Copies of these titles are available in various formats via the Pals Plus Consortium Online Catalog: http://www.palsplus.org/welcome.html

August 2011 edition of Book Pages

2011-07-28T16:01:00.002-04:00

The current issue of BookPage is now available at the Main Library and will be available at the Preakness Branch on Friday, July 29, 2011.
Happy reading!

Amazing Grace by Danielle Steel

2011-07-28T15:55:00.003-04:00

On a warm May night in San Francisco, the Ritz-Carlton ballroom shimmers as a glittering, celebrity-studded crowd gathers for a charity dinner dance. The evening is perfect--until, just minutes before midnight, the room begins to sway.... In the earthquake's aftermath, the lives of four strangers will converge.... Sarah Sloane, the wife of a financial whiz, watches her perfect world fall to pieces.... Grammy-winning singer Melanie Free comes to a turning point in her life and career.... Photographer Everett Carson finds new purpose amid the carnage...and Sister Maggie Kent, a nun who works with the homeless, searches through the rubble--and knows that there is much to be done....

"A Kiss Before Dying" by Ira Levin

2011-07-27T09:47:00.003-04:00

Bud Corliss is determined to make his dream come true - to marry into a wealthy family and be rich and successful. He feels he deserves this and has it rightfully coming to him. If his plan was not discovered, do you think he would have gotten away with it? Did he receive a just punishment in the end?

For further information about the author, check out:

http://www.iralevin.org/

Haven & The Colorado Kid

2011-07-25T14:04:00.004-04:00

Last season I fell in love with a quirky new series playing on Syfy. “The series, Haven, follows a shrewd and confident FBI agent Audrey Parker who has a lost past, and arrives in the small town of Haven, Maine on a routine case. Before long, her natural curiosity lands her in the epicenter of activity in this curious enclave, which turns out to be a longtime refuge for people that are affected by a range of supernatural afflictions.” (Syfy)

The series is based on The Colorado Kid a fun novella by Stephen King that will keep you wondering about all of the town's inhabitants well after the last page is read. This title is available in paperback, large type & audio book via the Pals Plus Consortium Online Catalog: http://www.palsplus.org/welcome.html

Beyond Tuesday Morning: Sequel to the Bestselling One Tuesday Morning by Karen Kingsbury

2011-07-21T11:20:00.003-04:00

In this sequel to the best-selling One Tuesday Morning, to widow Jamie Bryan it is still September 12, 2001. What will move her from living in the past to living the life God has given her today?

"Fade Away" by Harlan Coben

2011-07-20T12:55:00.002-04:00

Harlan Coben frequently writes about loss and redemption. How are these themes reflected in this book? (This title is the third of the Myron Bolitar series).

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.harlancoben.com/

Say “hello” to another wizard named Harry.

2011-07-14T08:54:00.004-04:00

With the final chapter of the Harry Potter (film) series right around the corner, now is the perfect time to discover an adult wizard named Harry Dresden.

Harry is a private investigator living in Chicago where he deals with paranormal crimes and periodically consults for the Chicago PD.

The Harry Dresden series is written by Jim Butcher and the first book in the series is Storm Front. The audio version is read by James Marsters (Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer.)

Copies of this title are available in paperback, graphic novel and audio CD via the Pals Plus Consortium Online Catalog: http://www.palsplus.org/welcome.html

Rizzoli & Isles

2011-07-12T19:43:00.008-04:00

Did you know that the TV show Rizzoli & Isles is based on a book series by best-selling author Tess Gerritsen?

If you love the hit show and want more than just a Monday night fix of Jane & Maura then check out the first book in this terrific (book) series – The Surgeon.

This title is available in hardcover, large-type and audio CD via the Pals Plus Consortium Online Catalog: http://ibistro.palsplus.org/uhtbin/cgisirsi.exe/leOjdAjugS/WAYNE/52830082/60/1180/X

Done with Sookie? Check out Rachel...

2011-07-11T15:14:00.005-04:00

If you’ve read all the Sookie Stackhouse mysteries and are looking for fun, friendship, action and adventure in a paranormal world then look no further that Kim Harrison’s Rachel Morgan series. The paperback copy of the first book in the series “Dead Witch Walking” has been on my ‘to-be-read’ pile for several years now, but with little time to actually read books, and lots more time to listen to them I was elated when I discovered the books were available on audio. An inter-library loan form, a couple of weeks waiting and into the Hallows I stepped to spend time with vampires, witches, pixies and many other mythical creatures. In an alternate world where humans fear tomatoes, Inderlanders come in all shapes and sizes and Cincinnati, Ohio has been forever changed by “The Turn” Rachel (witch,) Ivy (vampire,) and Jenks (pixie) band together to take down corrupt businessmen, mega-maniacal vamps and shape-shifting demons. Enter the Hallows and see what's lying in wait for Rachel and the gang.

The series reading order is:

Dead Witch Walking

The Good, The Bad, and The Undead

Every Which Way But Dead

A Fistful of Charms

For A Few Demons

The Outlaw Demon Wails

White Witch, Black Curse

Black Magic Sanction
Pale Demon
A Perfect Blood (coming spring 2012)

One Tuesday Morning by Karen Kingsbury

2011-06-30T14:48:00.003-04:00

A devoted fireman and a driven businessman, strangers with the same face. On that fateful Tuesday, one will leave the Twin Towers alive--but will he ever find his way home? Winner of the Silver Medallion Book Award.

A story you will not want to put down!

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!

2011-06-30T14:26:00.007-04:00

Whether you are a sock knitter who needs a change of pace, or just a person who own's a lot of sock yarn, this is a great book to own! Lot's of wonderful projects, that take a relatively short time to make! The scarves are fun to make as well as the fingerless gloves, there is something for every knitter/crocheter in this book!

Have a Little Fatih: A True Story by Mitch Albom

2011-06-30T14:10:00.003-04:00

New York Times bestselling author Albom goes back to his nonfiction roots with a timely, moving, and inspiring look at faith--not just who believes, but why--prompted by his search for the right words to eulogize a beloved rabbi, he re-discovers his own faith, learns about other religions, trust, and a whole new way to look at life. Truly inspiring.

Oneskein : 30 quick projects to knit and crochet by Leigh Radford

2011-06-30T13:59:00.007-04:00

These knitted and crocheted fashion accessories and decorative accents for the home vary in their required levels of skill, but all can be completed quickly and require only one skein of yarn. Several are designed using up a skein's worth of leftovers from other projects.
Oneskein has terrific knitting projects for when you need a quick knitted gift!

I completed the Fingerless Garter Mitts in about one weekend!

"The Probable Future" by Alice Hoffman

2011-06-28T17:30:00.002-04:00

The three generations of Sparrow women all are drawn to men with problems, both hidden and visible. Is this always true in love? Is every relationship fraught with problems, hidden or otherwise? Can you think of other works of fiction in which everyone is in love with the "wrong" person or where the "wrong" person turns out to in fact be "right"?

For further information about the author, visit her site at:

http://www.alicehoffman.com/

"Malice" by Lisa Jackson

2011-06-15T16:02:00.001-04:00

Rick Bentz is a flawed character but does he deserve the derision from his ex-colleagues in Los Angeles for the accidental shooting?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.lisajackson.com/

2012: War for the Souls by Whitely Strieber

2011-06-08T14:54:00.003-04:00

December 21, 2012, may be one of the most watched dates in history. Every 26,000 years, earth lines up with the exact center of our galaxy. At 11: 11 on December 21, 2012, this event happens again, and the ancient Maya calculated that it would mark the end, not only of this age, but of human consciousness as we know it. But what will actually happen? The end of the world? A new age for mankind? Nothing? The last time this happened, Cro-Magnon man suddenly began creating great art in the caves of southern France, which to this day remains one of the most inexplicable changes in human history. Now Whitley Strieber explores 2012 in a towering work of fiction that will astound readers with its truly new insights and a riveting roller-coaster ride of a story. A mysterious alien presence unexpectedly bursts out of sacred sites all over the world and begins to rip human souls from their bodies, plunging the world into chaos it has never before known. Courage meets cowardice, loyalty meets betrayal as an entire world struggles to survive this incredible end-all war. Heroes emerge, villains reveal themselves, and in the end something completely new and unexpected happens that at once lifts the fictional characters into a new life, and sounds a haunting real-world warning for the future.

"The Brass Verdict" by Michael Connelly

2011-05-25T10:28:00.003-04:00

"I'm in."

Mickey decided to work with Bosch to draw out the killer. Why do you think he was willing to do that when he didn't seem to trust Bosch? Did his theory that everybody lies end up applying to Bosch too in the end?

For further information about the author, check out:

http://www.michaelconnelly.com/

"The Book of Lies" by Brad Meltzer

2011-05-18T12:02:00.002-04:00

How does the Superman part of the plot and the Cain part of the plot come together?

What exactly is the murder weapon Cain used to kill Abel.

Lastly, what is the "Book of Lies"?

For further information about the author, check out:

http://www.bradmeltzer.com/

"No Second Chance" by Harlan Coben

2011-04-27T10:00:00.002-04:00

Harlan Coben's stories frequently place the protagonist -- an everyman in an everyday world -- into situations that are beyond his control. In "No Second Chance", Marc Seidman is an everyman, however are the antagonists also 'ordinary'?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.harlancoben.com/

"The Innocent" by Harlan Coben

2011-04-27T09:56:00.002-04:00

Harlan Coben utilizes the second person in the prologue and epilogue to put the reader into the mind of the protagonist, Matt Hunter. Is this an effective device? Does it help make the reader more empathetic to his plight?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.harlancoben.com/

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

2011-04-01T11:20:00.003-04:00

In Jackson, Mississippi, in 1962, there are lines that are not crossed. With the civil rights movement exploding all around them, three women start a movement of their own, forever changing a town and the way women--black and white, mothers and daughters--view one another.

A book you will not want to put down!

The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly

2011-03-30T11:13:00.002-04:00

"I traded evil for innocence"

Mickey used questionable ways to make sure that justice was served. He tampered with a witness (Corliss); he lied to his client and to the police; he withheld information. Do you think the end justified his actions?

For further information about the author and his books, check out:

http://www.michaelconnelly.com/

The Black Echo by Michael Connelly

2011-03-30T11:10:00.001-04:00

Should Harry Bosch excused himself from the case once he recognized Meadows? If he had, would anyone else have pursued his murder properly?

For further information about the author and his books, check out:

http://www.michaelconnelly.com/

"The Other Side of the Bridge" by Mary Lawson

2011-02-24T15:04:00.004-05:00

Discuss the novel's title; what does it mean for the characters to reach the other side of the bridge? Could Jake and Arthur ever be free of the wounds they inflicted on each other? What does it signify in terms of Ian's life?

For information about the author, check out:

http://www.randomhouse.ca/newface/marylawson.php

For a review of this book, check out:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2006/oct/07/featuresreviews.guardianreview14

52 Waratah Avenue by Lynne Wilding

2011-02-18T14:18:00.003-05:00

As Laura Beaumont struggles wih the loss of love, her other life's passion comes under threat…Someone is trying to sabotage Ashworths, the exclusive department store set up by Laura Beaumont. Is the company about to be taken over? The timing is bad for the Beaumont family because Laura's health is declining and they desperatly need to find a successor to the business. Caroline, Laura's eldest daughter, is an international concert pianist in search of a new career; perhaps at Ashworths. But her ambitious sister Michaela has her eye on the top job and is suspicious of Caroline's motives. Meanwhile, Joel, Laura's son, has to deal with his own problems before he can pursue his career as a doctor. Outside of Ashworths, the Beaumont women have other passions to contend with. Caroline's return to Sydney means facing her ex-husband. Nick wants Caroline back in his life — any way he can get her. Michaela finds herself attracted by young lawyer Leith Danvers.

Gigi by Colette

2011-02-07T12:03:00.004-05:00

Perhaps Colette's best-known work, "Gigi "is the story of a young girl being raised in a household more concerned with success and money than with the desires of the heart. But Gigi is uninterested in the dishonest society life she observes all around her and remains exasperatingly Gigi. The tale of Gigi's success in spite of her anxious family is Colette at her liveliest and most entertaining. Written during the same period as "Gigi," "Julie de Carneilhan," based on Colette's last years with her second husband, focuses on a contest of wills between Julie, an elegant woman of forty, and her ex-husband. "Chance Acquaintances," a novella, involves an invalid wife, her philandering husband, and a music-hall dancer whose odd meeting at a French spa affects and indelibly marks each one of their lives.

The Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah

2011-02-04T20:48:00.004-05:00

After one of her patients commits murder, psychiatrist Julia Cates is asked to come back to her hometown by her sister Ellie to help with a child who seemed to appear from nowhere out of the forest. Julia's confidence is very low and her life has been almost destroyed. The found child is "wild" and no one knows where she came from. Julia becomes the temporary foster parent to help the young girl. Can Julia find out who the girl is? What her name is?
The book is hard to put down once you get started! I haven't finished reading just yet! The suspense of what may happens next has me hanging on, not wanting to put this book down!

"Along Came a Spider" by James Patterson

2011-01-19T14:03:00.002-05:00

This is the first book in the Alex Cross series.

Was it possible for Gary Soneji-Murphy to lead his double life without his family and friends being suspicious?

At a school where there were many children of high-profile people, wouldn't they have done a more thorough background check?

For more information about the character, Alex Cross; check out:

http://www.jamespatterson.com/books_alex_cross.php

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.jamespatterson.com/about_biography.php

"The Apprentice" by Tess Gerritsen

2011-01-13T15:45:00.003-05:00

"The Apprentice" is the second book in the Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles series by Tess Gerritsen and it has recently been made into a television series on TNT.

Tess Gerritsen worked as a medical doctor before retiring to write full-time. Does her knowledge and the graphic detail described in the book (regarding autopsies, etc.) help or hinder the story?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.tessgerritsen.com/bio/

"The Thirty-Nine Steps" by John Buchan

2010-12-16T18:22:00.002-05:00

This novel is considered the first published 'spy novel', featuring Richard Hannay. It is a short book with much action and many plot twists and turns. It is also written in first-person. Is this an effective way to tell the story?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.johnbuchansociety.co.uk/

"Alice in Jeopardy" by Ed McBain

2010-11-17T13:19:00.004-05:00

There were many extraneous characters in this book - did they serve a purpose (such as a red herring) or were they less pivotal to the story as a whole?

Also, why didn't the police put a GPS tracking device in with the superbills?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://www.edmcbain.com/

http://www.slate.com/id/2122426/

For a book list of Ed McBain:

http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/m/ed-mcbain/

For a book list of Evan Hunter:
http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk/h/evan-hunter/

The Dancing Floor by Barbara Michaels

2010-10-27T09:42:00.003-04:00

Why did Frank and Jordan readily accept Heather into their home after she inadvertently trespasses on their property?

For more information about the author (aka Elizabeth Peters, aka Barbara Mertz), check out:

http://www.mpmbooks.com/

"Beyond Suspicion" by James Grippando

2010-10-20T15:29:00.003-04:00

Do you think Jack Swyteck's line of work puts his wife, Cindy, in danger? Or is it more his personality trait to pursue information rather than his career that gets him in 'hot water'?

For more information about the author and other Jack Swyteck books, check out:

http://www.jamesgrippando.com/

Archives Alive - BLOGathon!

2010-10-01T10:57:00.005-04:00

October is American Archives Month: a time to focus on the importance of the collections of archival and historical records and to highlight the archival professionals and procedures responsible for maintaining these rich and complex documentary resources.

In celebration of this event, the reference staff of Wayne Public Library is sponsoring in October a 31-day “ARCHIVES ALIVE BLOGathon” to answer our patrons’ questions concerning how to care for and preserve your family memories. Wayne’s professional librarians trained in conservation and preservation will post to and monitor the Wayne Public Library’s Blog for 31 days (excluding weekends) offering tips and suggestions to help you with your personal family display and storage questions.

Please visit the Lockett Room at the library on Valley Road where more than 2,000 items relevant to Wayne, Passaic County or New Jersey reside.

To post a question - click on Comments.

A Librarian will reply to your question on the BLOG so check back for your answer!

Lady Killer by Lisa Scottoline

2010-09-29T10:17:00.003-04:00

How would you compare Mary's friendship with Judy and Trish's friendship with her friends? How are they similar? How are they different? Who do you think make better friends?

For more information about the author, check out:

http://scottoline.com/Site/

"The Motive" by John Lescroart

2010-09-15T15:59:00.004-04:00

There were many red herrings in "The Motive" -- Paul's business dealings, his political aspirations, his ex-wife Theresa and family members -- did they help the flow of the story or possibly hinder it?

For further information about the author, check out:

http://www.johnlescroart.com/

True Colors by Kristin Hannah

2010-09-01T18:54:00.004-04:00

The Grey sisters had only each other when their mother died. Their father provided for them physically on Water's Edge, the ranch that had been in their family for three generations, but he was emotionally absent. Growing up, the Grey sisters longed for love. Winona, an overweight dreamer, knew that she could never get it -- she didn't have the talents and strengths her father valued. Vivi Ann did. But when Vivi Ann makes a fateful decision to follow her heart, rather than take the route of dutiful daughter, events are set in motion that will test the love and loyalty of sisterhood.

A story that I could not stop reading, couldn't wait to see what would happen next!

A Million Miles in a Thousand Years: What I Learned While Editing My Life by Donald Miller

2010-09-01T18:00:00.007-04:00

Miller undertakes a humorous and revealing journey as he edits his life into a purposeful and meaningful experience. In his trademark style, the author of "Blue Like Jazz" invites readers into their own process of looking at life through the lens of what makes for a memorable and satisfying story.

A worthwhile read for those who are searching for change and desiring to create a memorable life story.

"Breathing Lessons" by Anne Tyler

2010-09-01T09:50:00.004-04:00

Ira doesn't talk much -- he plays solitaire, whistles, and when he does talk, he "tells the truth". Is his truth-telling appropriate or harmful? Is it more true or "right" than Maggies little white lies and exaggerations?

For more about the author, check out:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/writers/writerdetails.asp?cid=968089

www.usatoday.com/cleanprint/?1276280397087

2010-08-20T11:48:00.001-04:00

"A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini

A Thousand Splendid Suns is a wonderful story. This book is very rich in Afghan culture and traditions. It goes through several decades including the take-over from the Taliban. The characters find themselves faced with many challenges that wars and killing brings. Throughout the book the characters show amazing strength, love and devotion to each other and to their war-torn country. This book is well written and well-worth reading.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-20T11:45:00.002-04:00

"61 Hours" by Lee Child

This cliffhanger follows Reacher, the hero of many of Child's novels, as he assists the police of a frozen, frigid South Dakota town after being stranded there by an accident. Fully developed and interesting characters held my attention while events seem to spin out of control. A strange but somehow believable climax enthralled me. Another winner from this prolific author.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-17T11:58:00.002-04:00

"Diana: A Tribute" by Tim Graham

This book about Diana was interesting because Tim Graham has watched Diana from the beginning of her public life- to her tragic end-

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-17T11:55:00.001-04:00

"The Sheen on the Silk" by Anne Perry

I wonder if all the information is based in fact or just sounds good- the book list at the end looks very heavy- Very very different from her other books.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-17T11:53:00.001-04:00

"The Search" by Iris Johansen

It starts off interesting, goes a little slow. But then stick with it because it is so inspiring with determination and mystery, you won't put it down until the last page. Very good.

Watered your mind? yes. b

2010-08-17T11:50:00.001-04:00

"The Maze" by Catherine Coulter

This book keeps you moving from page to page. Each one seems a suspect but you won't find out until the end. An excellent mystery with some romance and lots of twists. A great read. Excellent!!

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-17T11:48:00.002-04:00

"The Taken" by Inger Ash Wolfe

It's good to read a book about a police woman in her 60's who is as sharp as a tack and gets the job done, even while recuperating from back surgery. Just goes to show you we're not getting older just better. Very Good.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-17T11:47:00.001-04:00

"Silencing Sam" by Julie Kramer

Very Good!

Watered Your mind? yes b

2010-08-16T14:45:00.001-04:00

"Hannah's List" by Debbie Macomber

Definitely a woman's story. Although some characters from the Blossom Street books are mentioned, this is the story of a widower who is trying to resume his life style when he receives a letter written by his deceased wife a year after her death. It was a pleasure to follow his journey while following his wife's suggestion. A "feel-good" book.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-16T14:43:00.001-04:00

"The Search" by Nora Roberts

A good read, a mixture of romance and mystery. Good character development and developing suspense. The author also included - painlessly - dog training and search-and-rescue teams using canines.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-16T14:35:00.000-04:00

"The Wild Marquis" by Miranda Neville

This is a regency historical with an interesting and different plot. Aside from the budding romance, there is a hint of mystery and a great deal of information on book collecting to the extent of addiction. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-16T14:33:00.002-04:00

"Gallant Officer, Forbidden Lady" by Diane Gaston

This is a story set in Regency England, but what makes it different and interesting is that the characters are not members of the elite, but ordinary persons (an actress, a painter.) The characters are well-drawn and some details from the Napolionic War are woven seemlessly into the story.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-16T14:30:00.002-04:00

"The Ninth Judgment" by James Patterson

The Women's Murder Club is one of my favorite story themes. Even though there was less "club" in this plot, it helped tie the threads of two mysteries together. This is the first mystery I can recall that I was glad a perpetrator "escaped" ; I was glad that justice was served in the second case. This was a quick, interesting read and ended with an enticing situation which makes me anxious for the next volume in the series.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-13T14:42:00.003-04:00

"The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest" by Stieg Larsson

This book was great. I couldn't put it down. This book was a satisfying end to Larsson's trilogy. Lisbeth Salander was one of the most original characters I have encountered in a work of fiction. She and Mikael Blomkvist made a great team. I will never forget them or this book.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-13T14:39:00.001-04:00

"American Music" by Jane Mendelsohn

This book was interesting because it was different. As Honor, a physical therapist, massages the back of an injured soldier, all these images and stories of people from the past emerge to haunt both of them. The stories are intriguing and mysterious, and the author is adept at writing great descriptions.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-13T14:37:00.002-04:00

"Cheerful Weather for the Wedding" by Julia Strachey

This book is a funny romantic comedy which tells the story of the wedding day of Dolly Thatcham to Owen Bigham. As the guests arrive, Dolly's mother absentmindedly assigns all of them to the same room- one of the guests constantly has mismatched socks, and Dolly drinks too much rum and tries to hide the bottle in the folds of her dress. In a way, the story is bittersweet and has an unexpected twist at the end.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-13T14:33:00.002-04:00

"Queen Victoria's Descendants" by Marlene Eilers

This is interesting because it shows how Queen Victoria can really be called "Grandma of Europe." It also shows the good and the bad, that can be traced throughout Europe - the family ties are very interlocked - never realized to the extent they are.

Water your mind? Yes. e

2010-08-13T11:04:00.002-04:00

"Countdown" by Deborah Wiles

This book was great. It's an intelligently written docu-novel about the 1960's. The author has written an engaging story about 11 year old Franny Chapman and her family. Throughout the book there are excerpts from speeches, pictures, headlines, and song lyrics that all relate to the 1960's.
I would recommend this book to anyone, and for people who lived during the 1960's it's a must read. Luckily, for fans of this book, this is a trilogy, so I anxiously await the next two books.

Watered your mind? yes! e

2010-08-13T11:02:00.001-04:00

"Sizzling Sixteen" audiobook by Janet Evanovich

I don't know where she draws her characters from but Janet Evanovich creates characters you can almost visualize. I enjoyed this audiobook as I have all of her others in the Stephanie Plum series. There is a mystery to be solved with laughs along the way.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-13T10:49:00.002-04:00

"The Broker" audiobook by John Grisham

The author builds the story slowly but the ending is worth waiting for. Marco Lazari aka Joel Bachman is the Broker and numerous parties want him dead including the CIA. How he gets out of Italy is an interesting tale. This the 4th Grisham work I've listened to and definitely one of his better novels.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-13T10:46:00.002-04:00

"Cleopatra" by Duane W. Roller

I discovered several new pieces of historical information - I did not know before - the Battle of Aktion, her visit to Greece- the book was very well written, also explained many events rather than just stating that they happened!

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T12:08:00.000-04:00

"Heart of the Matter" by Emily Giffin

This is a beautifully written, emotionally powerful story. It will resonate with every woman who has ever been cheated on by someone she loves and trusts.
Emily Giffin's skill to tell the story of emotions beyond control, the ensuing pain, and the ability to understand and forgive is outstanding.
You won't forget these characters and their hope for the future for a long time. Although the book is fiction, it will go straight to the heart of anyone who understands from experience just how fragile life can be.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T12:05:00.000-04:00

"Victoria and Albert" Edited by Jonathan Marsden

This is an excellent book. There is a great deal of historical fact - Also a great view of the art and culture and social history of the time of Victoria and Albert. Especially interesting, their very early years together. A very, very intersting book!!

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T11:57:00.000-04:00

"New Jersey, a History" by Thomas Fleming

This book is part of a series on the states and the nation, published for the Bicentennial. It tells the history of NJ from late 17th century thru the early 1970's. NJ, as small as it is, was once East Jersey and West Jersey. It is a story of differing loyalties, ethnicities, religions etc. NJ's view of our ties to Britain was totally different from that of New England. We were not all that keen on breaking with Britain. Fleming shows us that the squabbling and disagreements have never ended with the state and yet in spite of the diversity and quarreling, and the many mistakes of the past, he says that perhaps our state motto should be "divided we stand." This book , in spite of being only 205 pages long, gives an excellent overview of our state's history.
While reading this book I also watched the DVD called "New Jersey Legacy," a ten part documentary covering the 1600's until modern times. These half hour programs by public television were not make to go with the book, but they complemented each other, especially the one program about Jersey City politics and the boss of bosses, Frank Hague. That episode was narrated by Thomas Fleming, whose father was a ward leader at that time.

Watered your mind? yes! e

2010-08-10T11:53:00.000-04:00

"Lucid Intervals" by Stuart Woods

This is a mystery with plenty of excitement and danger to make it a page turner. It is by a NY Times best selling author. It has Stone Barrington as a main character. It takes place in NY in which Stone is a lawyer and also in Maine at his summer home. It is about his two clients; one is Herbie Fisher who has just won the lottery and the other is Felicity, who happens to work for the British government. It has a great deal of intrigue.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:49:00.000-04:00

"The Taming of the Duke" by Eloisa James

I really enjoyed this light book. Rafe was a very interesting hero - one who battled a serious problem, alcoholism, and came out of it alive and stronger. Imogen is the perfect mate for him - strong, witty, and unafraid to tell him exactly what is on her mind. The side characters are all charming and dearly familiar, reappearing from past novels. The best thing about James' novels are that she makes time in the story for the lives of other characaters to unfold alongside the main ones - and we, as readers can glimpse into their lives as well.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T11:37:00.000-04:00

"Evidence of the Afterlife" by Jeffrey Long, M.D.

I love these books and this was a good one. A few too many statistics in some chapters, but first hand excerpts were fascinating. A fast read. Held my interest throughout.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:35:00.003-04:00

"Whiplash" by Catherine Coulter

This is a mystery featuring FBI agent Dillon Savich and Lacey Sherlock his wife. It is an exciting book that is two mysteries occuring- one about the attempts on a life of a senator and one about a cancer drug and its shortage. It was an interesting and exciting book that kept my interest from page one to the end.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:33:00.001-04:00

"Infinities" by John Banville

A fantastic allegory. Banville is a very intellectual writer. I appreciated the journey, but I don't know if I truly understood all the "Gods" and "Mortals" rules all the time.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:32:00.001-04:00

"Almost Wanted man" by John LeCarre

John LeCarre's talent starts with his excellent writing. He draws the reader into knowing his characters. The plot weaves from them.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:31:00.001-04:00

"All You Need is Love" by Carole Matthews

Carole Matthews is one of my favorite British authors. She always delivers a fun read - and she has a good website.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:23:00.002-04:00

"The Woods" by Harlan Coben

Six teenagers, three girls and three boys, go into the woods near their summer camp. Two come out to rejoin their families. Within a short time, two are found dead in different parts of the woods, a half a mile apart. Two have disappeared, presumed dead. Their graves have never been found. The dense woods is large. None of the families will ever be the same again. They go their separate ways.
Twenty years later, the one surviving boy, Paul Copeland, now a successful county prosecutor for Essex County, NJ tells the story. His sister's grave, which his father sought obsessively, has never been found. Two NY police detectives have come to NJ to question Palu's connection to a recent murder victim, a man roughly Paul's age, who had papers on him linking him to Paul. The man's name is totally unfamiliar to Paul. And so the quest begins. What really happened that summer night? Whatever became of Paul's girlfriend, Lucy, the other survivor?
As soon as you think you have the story figured out, something else is revealed, and it is highly plausible. The plot twists and turns and this is a book that is hard to put down.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T11:20:00.002-04:00

"Learning to Breathe" by Karen White

Definitely summer reading. Kind of hokey, but the mystery of who would marry who, and who was whose mother/son/daughter kept me reading until the end.
Main character Brenna. 1) Mother died when she was 6. 2) had a mean father. 3) lost her high school "true love" when he went to college. 4) had four much older sisters who raised her. Ya da, Ya da......

Caused a drought. b

2010-08-10T11:07:00.002-04:00

"The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak

The more praise that I give for this book, it would still not be enough. I have read thousands of books in my life, but this is one of the few that you will truly remember for all of your life as the one that changed an aspect of your life. I constantly had to put it down to grasp and let soak in the poetry hidden with the prose. This is a masterfully told "story within a story" that will make you cry, laugh, and come to learn a bit about your own self. A must read for sure!

Watered your mind? yes yes yes! e

2010-08-10T11:05:00.001-04:00

"Pursuit of Honor" by Vince Flynn

Vince Flynn brings fast-paced action and consistently good "reads."
The plots make sense and are really enjoyable.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:03:00.002-04:00

"Corduroy Mansions" by Alexander McCall Smith

This is a story about London and the cast of characters who live in a building in this part of London. It is interesting and told with humor. There is a clever dog who is also a character. It is enjoyable.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T11:01:00.001-04:00

"Brooklyn" by Colm Toibin

Even though this book was highly praised by the critics, I thought it started out very slowly. It got such good reviews that I kept reading. It was divided into 4 parts and the story got more interesting in parts 3 and 4.
I like Eilis and Tony, but I didn't like where the author took the story between Eilis and Jim. I also had mixed feelings about the ending.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T10:51:00.002-04:00

"Winter Garden" by Kristin Hannah

While I have read all the novels written by Kristin Hannah, I have to say that this one is my favorite. I couldn't put it down. It was so moving and I got so invested in the characters. The story Anya tells her daughters had me riveted to my chair. I am amazed that each and every one of Kristin's books is very different. You never know what kind of story is next. She is a very talented author.
A slight comment also - I always look at the cover of the book, and sometimes it helps me to choose. The cover has to be pleasing to the eye for me. This one was beautiful.
This might be a novel, but I feel like I got a history lesson, which I could use as it wasn't my favorite subject in school.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T10:48:00.002-04:00

"Wrecked" by Carol Higgins Clark

This was a mystery using the same detective team that is associative with her mysteries. It is the first anniversary of Jack and Ragan Reilly. They go to Cape Cod and stay in his parent's home to have a quiet weekend even though it is April and nobody is around. It is set in a spring storm, which hits the Cape. A woman who has rented a neighbor's house for the winter disappears. No one knows who she is so Regan and Jack look into whom she is. It is light and a great vacation read.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T10:46:00.001-04:00

"Back on Blossom Street" by Debbie MacComber

This book ws a follow up to the "Shop on Blossom Street." Again, it was a pleasant read with some mild drama. It was nice because there was no violence or questionable content. An easy quick summer read.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T10:42:00.002-04:00

"A Little Bit Wicked" by Kristin Chenoweth

First let me say that having seen Kristin Chenoweth in the lead role of a play on Broadway called "Promises Promises," I had to go to the Internet to find out all about her. So I took out this book that she wrote with Joni Rodgers. It was fantastic! She is so funny and adorable that I wish I could meet her. I'll be looking for her other works in TV and movies. This tiny 4 ft. 11 inch dynamo with a very powerful voice can sing, dance and act.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T10:30:00.002-04:00

"Potent Pleasures" by Eloisa James

One of my favorite Eloisa James novels! I loved the dark and brooding hero paired with the gorgeous but down-to-earth heroine. The love story between them was more realistic than most romance novels seem to be-- with moments of sweetness and moments of anger and misunderstanding. Good dialogue and intelligent writing overall.

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T10:28:00.000-04:00

"The Girl With the Dragon Tatoo" by Stieg Larsson

Interesting and "different" characters. The story was original in its mixture of mystery and life in a small area of Sweden. (The Swedish film was excellent and Isabel was brilliantly portrayed)

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T10:26:00.001-04:00

"Alexandra Gone" by Anna McPartlin

Another favorite author of mine. This one from Dublin, offers up a mystery this time. Interesting characters- good story. I've read all her books and enjoyed them.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T10:08:00.001-04:00

"Fever Dream" by Preston & Child

This book ws exciting! It was everything I hoped for from Preston & Child as well as the lead character Pendergast. The story was filled with suspense! At no point could I predict what was going to happen next. If you like suspense, unusal subject matter and a clever lead character this book is for you!

Watered your mind? yes e

2010-08-10T10:05:00.002-04:00

"Innocent" by Scott Turow

This book was a sequel to his other book, which was written a few years ago called "Presumed Innocent." The lawyer in both was tried for murder of his girlfiend and later his wife. His wife in the first book admits to him that she killed his girlfriend and he does not tell authorities. In the second book the same PA tries him for the death of his wife. The story line keeps moving.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-10T10:02:00.001-04:00

"Much Ado About You" by Eloisa James

Definitely not my favorite tale from the Essex Sisters Quartet! I read the series out of order, and was very much looking forward to reading about Tess and Lucius. However, the story failed to catch my attention, and it took me days to finish the book, whereas it only takes me hours when I am truly captivated by a story.

Caused a drought. e

2010-08-10T09:57:00.002-04:00

"The Light of Day" by Eric Ambler

Haven't read Ambler in many years. I realize he's wonderful. His characters are extremely well drawn. But they are not your typical "heroes." What makes them unique has a lot to do with survival rather than noble deeds.

Watered your mind? yes b

2010-08-09T20:19:00.002-04:00

"Lowcountry Summer" by Dorothea Benton Frank

Dot Frank is a wonderfully talented author who writes mostly about the lowcountry, entertaining the reader throughout with witty tales, humerous banter, and always an enfolding plot that you can't wait to be resolved. There is lots of laughter and a few tears in this book. Her characters are fascinating. All her books are wonderful. You can always count on her for a great read.
I met her once at a book signing- fabulous lady!

Watered your mind? yes b