What I'm Reading July 2012

[Book Concierge]

Hoot - Carl Hiaasen
Audio book read by Chad Lowe
3.5***

Hiaasen turns his imaginative talent to writing children’s literature.

Roy Eberhardt has moved with his family from Montana to Florida. His dad’s job makes the family move frequently, so he’s used to the new-kid routine; school bullies are pretty much the same wherever you are. In fact, he owes a debt of gratitude to Dana Matherson, because if Dana hadn’t attacked Roy on the school bus, Roy never would have seen the running boy. And that’s the first interesting thing he’s seen – so far.

As usual Hiaasen peoples his novels with an array of interesting characters – eco-terrorists, sleazy corporate spokesmen, inept police, harried school teachers, wannabe starlet, and oily politicians. Those familiar with Hiaasen’s adult novels, will recognized a young Skink in Mullet Fingers. Of course, he includes a message of protecting the environment and native species, and developers are the bad guys. But he’s toned it down for the younger audience without talking down to them. I gave this to my nephew last Christmas, and he thought it was … well … a hoot.

Lowe does a great job of the audio book. I especially love his voices for the more eccentric characters.

[Ruth]

Just put City of Thieves on my TBR. Thanks, everone.

[Ruth]

Book Concierge, you must read amazingly fast! I'm impressed by how many reviews you post.

[Sherry, Doyenne]

Ruth wrote: "Book Concierge, you must read amazingly fast! I'm impressed by how many reviews you post."

I was just thinking the same thing, Ruth. I'm really impressed.

[Anita]

Ruth wrote: "Just put City of Thieves on my TBR. Thanks, everone."

Please let us know what you think of it when you read it, Ruth!

[Mary Ellen]

Sorry to hear about Maeve Binchy. Her books were pure comfort food and gave me many relaxing "down time" hours. She came across as a pleasant person, too.

Finished The Man Who Smiled. Not sure what I think of it. Mankell spent so much time with the minutiae of Wallander's days - we heard about every cup of coffee he drank - but skipped over the "how" of both the investigation and the central Really Bad Thing his bad guy was up to.

Now I'm going to start Family Matters for the group read.

[Book Concierge]

Ruth wrote: "Book Concierge, you must read amazingly fast! I'm impressed by how many reviews you post."

I DO read fast. And I "double" my reading by also listening to audios. Right now I'm doing a summer reading challenge over on Shelfari which is really pushing me to spend every waking moment reading. I read (or listened to) 24 books in July!

[Sherry, Doyenne]

Book Concierge wrote: "Ruth wrote: "Book Concierge, you must read amazingly fast! I'm impressed by how many reviews you post."

I DO read fast. And I "double" my reading by also listening to audios. Right now I'm doing ..."

My goodness! 24? If I read one book a week I think I'm speeding. I also listen to audios.

I started Family Matters a couple of days ago (BC would be finished by now!) and really love it. I hope as many of you as possible join us for the discussion on the 15th.

[Melissa]

Let's start a new thread for August! 262 messages in this one, wow!

I'll go open the new one now.