How can a book about a botched kidnapping attempt by South American terrorists cause one to smile and feel "okay" about the human condition? Why would a reader find herself recommending this "violent, yet gentle" read? Perhaps it's enough to say that in other works of literature, as well as in life itself, from the roots of destruction comes an enhanced appreciation for beauty, life and love. No element within the pages of this story stretches the story's credibility; yet, Patchett's brilliance in the juxtaposition of the elements is undeniable. ]]>
by M.C. Beaton
I enjoyed reading your review, Bea! ]]>
Jo Ann Hall
read and liked
Bea Anita's
review of There Goes the Bride: An Agatha Raisin Mystery (Agatha Raisin Mysteries):
"Agatha Raisin is my favorite fictional fifty-something, she reminds me I'm not alone in this world of sore bones, sagging skin, and the lust for adventure. M.C. Beaton never fails me when I'm in need of a light read. I hope she has a storehouse of Ag...more "
"Agatha Raisin is my favorite fictional fifty-something, she reminds me I'm not alone in this world of sore bones, sagging skin, and the lust for adventure. M.C. Beaton never fails me when I'm in need of a light read. I hope she has a storehouse of Ag...more "
by Frances Hodgson Burnett
You and I assigned this book the same rating--I much prefer FHB's A Little Princess. Superior plot, characters, everything! I hope you're having a good year. ]]>
Within the first three pages, my French ancestry was confirmed as I recognized that Balzac and I share an intense curiosity about the human condition. The dialogue is so electric, the description of character and setting so detailed, at times I felt as though I were attending a performance of a staged play. Insightful observations about the pursuit of the material at the cost of the soul reminds us that keeping up with the Joneses is not a new trend. ]]>
bookshelves: currently-reading
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by Sheri Holman
I cannot wait to hear what you think. ]]>
Bill Bryson eloquently and sometimes humorously shows us just how little we know about the man Shakespeare and the times in which he lived. The paradox is that examination of the small body of evidence regarding Shakespeare's birth, education, life, and death does not lessen the power of the man's genius. Bryson gives convincing arguments (and accompanying evidence) as to why Bacon, Marlowe, Raleigh, and even Queen Elizabeth didn't write the plays and, most importantly, why considering their authorship defies the idea that the simplest explanation is usually the best. Some of the best parts are his colorful descriptions of Elizabethan life. I'll be using this text as a reference when I teach Julius Caesar this spring. ]]>
by Stieg Larsson
You know it, Girlie. I was just about to email you and say, "Hey, I think you'd like this." ]]>