When I first heard about this book, I was immediately intrigued. Being a woman myself, how can I bypass a book which is subtitled "One Woman's Search...moreWhen I first heard about this book, I was immediately intrigued. Being a woman myself, how can I bypass a book which is subtitled "One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia?" I will admit, I was somewhat hesitant to read it, as I had read several reviews which weren't overly favorable, and which detailed the author's focus on her faith and spirituality.
That said, overall, I adored this book. I read it sort of slowly, as it was one of those books I wanted to take my time digesting, rather than plow right through. While I did (and I'll admit it) skim a lot of the parts which took place in India, (mainly devoted to spirituality and the search for answers through faith) the rest of the book spoke to me in very profound ways. In parts of the book, I felt like it was my own thoughts and words that I was reading on the page. You can't really identify with a book any more than I did with "Eat, Pray, Love.
The author, Elizabeth Gilbert, realizes one day that she is hopelessly and utterly unhappy with her life. She is married, owns a house, has a job...and none of these coveted things bring her any sense of joy. Knowing that something needs to change, she files for divorce and plans a trip which will forever change her life. Gilbert spends a year abroad, four months each in Italy, India and Indonesia, seeking love, faith and balance. The book is divided into three sections; one devoted to each country she stays in, and each very different from the one previous to it.
If you've ever questioned life, wondered if you were where you really wanted to be, this is the book for you. It's funny, its sad, its profound...its wonderful, and I'd recommend it highly to anyone.
The story is about 19 year old Tobias Henry from nowheresville Michigan. The son of a Baptist preacher, Tobias grew up with religion and the Bible bei...moreThe story is about 19 year old Tobias Henry from nowheresville Michigan. The son of a Baptist preacher, Tobias grew up with religion and the Bible being a huge part of his life. Now older, and thinking for himself, he finds himself really questioning its validity. He also finds himself thinking about girls. A lot.
When a bizarre accident involving mass amounts of liquor and a bird leave his father blind, it is up to Tobias to save the family. His father confides in him that he has a stash of money hidden in a dried up well in Texas, and he pleads with his son to find it and bring it home. Tobias then embarks on the journey of a lifetime, in which he befriends a hobo, meets relatives he had never met, and discovers what it means to truly live.
"The Dirty Parts of the Bible" hooked me on the first page; the writing is smart and witty, and earned my respect right off. The story itself is great--one that kept me interested the entire way through. (The times I found myself snickering didn't hurt either.) The story moves along quickly and is told in a humorous and direct way. Personally, I can't wait to see more from Sammy Conner.
That's the best word to sum up this book...I laughed through 90% of it. Bobbie Faye is a riot, and if it weren't for bad, no scratch that,...moreHysterical.
That's the best word to sum up this book...I laughed through 90% of it. Bobbie Faye is a riot, and if it weren't for bad, no scratch that, horrible, luck, she'd have absolutely no luck at all.
The story starts out in Bobbie Faye's trailer, the very modest place she calls home. She wakes up surrounded in water and realizes that her trailer is flooding. Shortly thereafter, the power company shuts her power off for non payment, and things don't get much better from there. Actually, these events are the best part of her soon to be chaotic day...
Bobbie Faye receives a phone call from her brother Ray, who is in trouble again. He's been kidnapped, and the kidnappers want Bobbie Faye's tierra; a family heirloom that is worth a grand total of nothing. If they don't receive the tierra, its bye bye Ray.
On her quest to save her brother, Bobbie Raye encounters the police and FBI, double and triple crossers, elevator shafts, salt mines, swamps, guns, bears, pissed off ex boyfriends, (yes, plural...not just one, but two..) hostages and so much more; all while wearing her "Shuck me, suck me" gag t-shirt which was the only dry thing she could put her hands on that morning, and all in a way that will leave you shaking your head and giggling at the same time.
This is one of those books that sort of reminds me of "Bridget Jones Diary," the two have nothing in common at all, except that they make my life seem normal and in control, even on my very worst of days.
By the end of the story I had come to respect Bobbie Faye's character. Yes, she is chaos in motion, but she's also a very strong woman, with a hell bent determination like no other. The language used to tell the story is witty and brimming with puns and sarcasm, which make it that much more enjoyable.
I was hooked into this book from page one, and stayed up very late last night because I couldn't put it down. When I finished it, I was a little melancholy because it was through...no more Bobbie Faye. Honestly, I think when life hands me lemons, I will pick this book up and reread it...probably multiple times; to help me put my life back into perspective. And the best news? There will be another Bobbie Faye story--there's a little preview of the next book at the end of this one. Which thrilled me to no end.
Toni McGee Causey is a very talented writer...the story is absolutely insane, and I loved every minute of it.
The main character of this book, Nikki, wakes up one morning and the world is completely dark. Everything she touches disappears (well,...moreWhat a trip...
The main character of this book, Nikki, wakes up one morning and the world is completely dark. Everything she touches disappears (well, except for the things that were on her bed while she slept) nobody can see her, she can't make coffee, and there is a (British) talking coyote on her front steps. This is how the book begins, and it only gets crazier from there.
Nikki is neurotic, intelligent and obsessive; yet she's completely adorable and has so much of each and every one of us within her. Her best friend Amber is a more down to earth and organized woman, who helps to balance Nikki's chaos and help them through their journey. Ultimately this book is about self discovery, but there are a lot of entertaining things that happen on the way to reaching that point. Nikki finds out at the start of the story that there are a series of tasks she needs to complete before her world can resume its normalcy. Part of the task is even figuring out what the tasks are, since Lefty, her talking coyote companion only sings segments of songs as hints. Nikki needs to decipher his messages and complete these tasks, all while staying one step ahead of Luke, the bad guy, who wants Nikki's eyeballs. Seriously.
I can't even begin to sum this book up accurately--you need to read it for yourself. I was giggling by the end of the first page, and I honestly didn't stop until the last page. It's creative, original and highly entertaining. I recommend it to any of you who enjoy something a little different...think Douglas Adams ("The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy) meets Christopher Moore (highly satirical author) and you have Nicole Del Sesto. (less)
I adored this book. From the first page through until the last, I was completely taken by the words I read. I laughed out loud several times (and earn...moreI adored this book. From the first page through until the last, I was completely taken by the words I read. I laughed out loud several times (and earned strange looks from those around me) and I even cried. I couldn't put the book down, but I wanted to...only because I wanted the experience of reading it to last longer. Yep, that good.
The story is told from the perspective of a young girl growing up in a family filled with closeness, happiness and trust. It's full of anecdotes and humor, and at some point or other will remind most any reader of their own childhood. As Sarah, our trusty narrator, grows up, so too does the tone of the story. Everything changes one afternoon with a phone call--a phone call with news of a dying family member. Suddenly death becomes a prevelant part of Sarah's world...and we watch as her outlook on life changes. Through it all though, Sarah is witty and intelligent. You can't help but identify with her as she reminds you of parts of yourself that you had forgotten about.
I can't say enough good things about "Growing Up Moffett," you need to read it for yourself to see what I mean. Its one of the best coming of age memoirs I have read in...well, ever, and you'll adore it too. (less)
"To the Ends of the Earth; The Last Journey of Lewis and Clark," is a wonderful work of historical fiction. I'll admit that in the beginning, the firs...more"To the Ends of the Earth; The Last Journey of Lewis and Clark," is a wonderful work of historical fiction. I'll admit that in the beginning, the first twenty pages or so, did not grab my attention at all. I found myself wondering how on earth I was going to get through this entire novel. Suddenly it was an hour later, I was over a hundred pages into the story, and completely intoxicated by it. The story is absolutely incredible, and once I got into it, I couldn't make myself put it down.
We all know who Lewis & Clark were (if you don't, go find out on your own, I'm not going to explain it to you here.) but what we don't all readily know, is what happened to them after their three year expedition. That is what this book is about. It opens in 1809, and Lewis is a man in trouble. He's drinking too much, writing government vouchers for things that later will not be honored, postponing the writing of his novel, and lying to his best friend.
Due to a corrupt adversary within the US government, Lewis sets out for Federal City (the then name for Washington DC) In tow, are all his journals, maps and notes from his previous expedition. En route, Lewis is faced with enemies and allies alike, sometimes making it impossible for him to tell the difference. Hearing that his friend may be in trouble, Clark packs up and leaves after him, hoping to save his friend.
Its hard to explain what takes place on the journey to Federal City without ruining the story for those who would like to read it. Just know that its full of twists and turns, ups and downs, chaos and honor. It's a story you won't soon forget, and one that should be added to any historical fiction library.
I know I've mentioned it before, but books about the drug culture and lifestyle always intrigue me. If they're an account of a true story it just make...moreI know I've mentioned it before, but books about the drug culture and lifestyle always intrigue me. If they're an account of a true story it just makes it that much more interesting; that being said, this one was no disappointment. Of all the memoirs I've read by recovered addicts, this one ranks pretty high up there on my favorites list.
"My Own Asylum," is based on the experiences of the author, as she began to use, abuse and eventually become addicted to drugs. Though meth was her drug of choice, she often abused others as well. Her experimentation began as a young teenager, playing around with ecstasy and pot, and by the time she headed off to college, she was a full blown addict.
Once at college, Lynn (the main character of the book) quickly loses control of her life. She skips her classes, blows off assignments, screws over her friends, steals, sells herself and more...all for that high. We follow Lynn through the good times and bad, and we are right there with her when she hits the proverbial rock bottom.
The remainder of the book is dedicated to telling the story of Lynn's struggle to regain control of her life by getting clean. The story is honest--it speaks to the heart of the fears she faces, the triumphs and the failures as she relapses. As you read, you can't help but come to admire her for her inner strength and determination. The story is touching, honest and emotional. I loved it. I can't say enough good things about it.
This is a book to be read, reread, and shared with others. I think we all know a person or two who could use a little push in the right direction, and attempt to get themselves clean and sober. This book may be able to help. The sincerity in which it is written keeps it from being preachy or condescending in any way, shape or form. It's a wonderful book, and I suggest you all go out and get a copy for yourselves.
Let me start by saying that I LOVED this book..when I picked it up I was really in the mood for something different, and that's definitely what I got....moreLet me start by saying that I LOVED this book..when I picked it up I was really in the mood for something different, and that's definitely what I got. The night I started it I had to force myself to put it down and go to sleep..and I finished it shortly after waking up the next morning..its a quick and easy read, but one that will stay with you long after you finish it.
The author, Wendy Stofan Halley, is contacted by the family of a young man who mysteriously slips into a coma. The doctors in charge of his treatment are pretty much at a loss as to what is going on with him, and tell his family that they aren't hopeful about his recovery. Halley is a shamanic healer, and his family contacts her in hopes that she can help. What follows is the story, told strictly from Halley's point of view, of their nine months of treatment sessions.
The full title of the book is "Slaying the Mouse; A true story of healing in the spiritual realms," and that's what the story is about. Readers learn about the ancient art of shamanic healing, and about how Wendy and the spirit helpers help Jason recover from his coma. Some people will find the book a little too "out there," for their liking, but if you have any spiritual beliefs at all, you'll adore this book the way I did.
It's written clearly and in a way that you are sucked into the journey along with Jason and Wendy. You're there as Jason struggles to come to terms with not only the spiritual aspects of it all, but with himself and his fears and limitations as well. It's a beautiful story, and I can't say enough good things about it without ruining the whole thing for potential readers..
In high school we're taught that a classic is a book that withstands the test of time. That said, its very clear why Gone with the Wind is consider a...moreIn high school we're taught that a classic is a book that withstands the test of time. That said, its very clear why Gone with the Wind is consider a classic; its timeless. I'm one of few who had never read this book, or even seen the movie..until now. For as long as I can remember, its been on my list of things to do..and I'd just never gotten around to it prior to now. I can't even begin to explain how wonderful I found this book.
As I was reading it, I kept remarking to my boyfriend "wow, this book is incredible." and he always replied with "its the greatest romance ever written." While I won't deny that yes, it is partially a story of romance, there are so many other aspects to it. It's historical fiction; a tale of survival in a ruined confederate south. There's the triumph of hard work, loyalty and love..its multi faceted to say the least.
I'm sure pretty much all of you know the story, so I won't go into a synopsis of the plot line. What I will say is that if you're like me and unfamiliar with the story, you should add this to your list of books to read, and do it soon. It's a great story that keeps you turning pages, and its REAL..I really sincerely enjoyed it.
Wow...I don't even know where to start..what a ride this book is..once you start reading you can't put it down. The raw brutality that pours forth fro...moreWow...I don't even know where to start..what a ride this book is..once you start reading you can't put it down. The raw brutality that pours forth from page to page compels you to read on.
In my mind, I compare this book to several others I've read..books like this fascinate me; its a world I've never stepped into, but have known many who did. And with each book like this I find, I feel I understand those people that much better. The world I'm referring to here is the world of drugs; and "futureproof" takes you deep into the taboo that is the drug world; it grabs you and refuses to let go. The words written in this story are as addictive as the drugs they are describing.
I'd compare N. Frank Daniels to other authors like James Frey, Michael Sonbert, and Jack Kerouac. His writing is raw and honest, yet it flows like music. It's hard to describe this book adequately other than to say this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Scratch that, its one of the best books I've read EVER.
It's real, its accurate and its honest. You can't ask for more from an author. Two thumbs WAY the hell up on this one.
For anyone who enjoys historical fiction; this is the book for you. It's an incredible story..the characters are incredibly well developed, the backgr...moreFor anyone who enjoys historical fiction; this is the book for you. It's an incredible story..the characters are incredibly well developed, the background is very well researched, and the story is beautiful in and of itself. I highly recommend this book to others and am glad that the author chose to share it with me.
The story begins in the 1840's with a newlywed couple; Gerald and Clara Henning. The Hennings travel from Boston to the Upper Michigan Penninsula on the shores of Lake Superior, where iron ore has recently been discovered.
The Hennings and other settlers like them arrive in Marquette to an undeveloped piece of wilderness, with dreams of helping to turn it into a successful thriving metropolis. Through blizzards, famines, fires and economical crashes, these settlers and their decendents persevere. In time this small wilderrness village becomes a prospering modern city; changed so much that original settlers struggle to recognize what it has become.
Dependably researched, written from the heart and involving a half of a century of characters, Iron Pioneers is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Two thumbs way up.
I'm pretty sure that no matter what I say I about this book, my words won't be able to do it justice. It's an incredible book; brilliant, educational...moreI'm pretty sure that no matter what I say I about this book, my words won't be able to do it justice. It's an incredible book; brilliant, educational [to an extent] and highly entertaining. By page ten I was hopelessly lost in its story, and fought sleep to stay awake and finish it.
The story is told from the view point of a man named Jacob. His viewpoint alternates between present time, where he is an elderly man in his 90's, in an assisted living facility which he despises, and also from the past perspective, as he recalls his days as part of a train circus in the 1930's. When young Jacob's life turns upside down, he jumps a train, not realizing which particular train he jumped--and his world is changed forever.
The story has a bit of everything; history, romance, animals, mental illness, corruption...its all in there, and its all in there in a way which leaves you incapable of putting the book down. I learned a lot of things I didn't know before reading this book. The intelligence of elephants is far higher than I ever gave them credit for. I learned about the epidemic of "Jake Leg," which afflicted thousands of lower class folks in the 1930's. Not to mention how much I learned about the inner working of the train circus industry.
At the end of the story is a note from the author, which for that alone the book is worth reading. Sara Gruen is very insightful and passionate, and I have a great deal of respect for her as a person and an author now.
My words aren't doing this story any justice. There's so much to it. It's a complex work of historical fiction, and its one I hope you all read.
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