My latest book review for Library Thing

Perfect for fans of romantic women’s fiction, this tender and heartwarming novel explores the trials of losing what matters most—and how there’s always more than we can imagine left to find.


The letter comes out of the blue, and just in time for Libby Moran, who—after the sudden death of her husband, Danny—went to stay with her hypercritical mother. Now her crazy Aunt Jean has offered Libby an escape: a job and a place to live on her farm in the Texas Hill Country. Before she can talk herself out of it, Libby is packing the minivan, grabbing the kids, and hitting the road.

I requested this book from The Library Things early review program because of the very cute cover and the story line of the family moving to a goat farm! I follow several bloggers who have made lifestyle changes like this book and I was just really drawn to it and was so excited when I received it! Because of personal losses we have found ourselves on a farm in the country and with a life style change that has been very positive for us. I knew I would have a lot to relate to in this story and there would be enough to keep me in the story. I was not disappointed. I was able to read this on a recent trip so I read it in 3 days. I enjoyed this book as a light read which is usually not my normal genre. I did find some parts to be predictable but the outcomes do not disappoint and there are several surprises to keep you going. Great summer beach read!

Help Please

A library in need...

I LOVE books. I LOVE to read. I want everyone to LOVE to read or at least have the opportunity to read. When I came across this post I knew I had to share. We have to many books to move again so I am just going to bite the bullet and let them go. I hope you have some to pass along or can buy some nice used books from your local 2nd hand book store and support local! Win, win for all involved.

The original post comes from Danielle ~ here http://www.frenzyofnoise.net

"The literature section of Ballou Senior High School's library in Washington, DC has 63 books, not enough to fill five small shelves. In the area marked "Pure Science," there are 77 volumes. The generally accepted standard for school libraries is 11 books for each of Ballou's 1,104 students."
Why we should care:


"It's a challenge for kids to take their literacy seriously when they don't even have books to read. Ballou is located in the most dangerous ward in our nation's capitol. Right now, the library serves as a physical safe space and a refuge for students in off school hours, but wouldn't it be great if they had something to read while they were there--even choices across genre?....This is not the only school in the country with needs, but when the flare went up we saw it and chose to respond."
What they need:
Everything. From Shakespeare to Octavia Butler to Richard Wright. Fantasy, sci-fi, YA, adult fiction, history books, poetry, classic literature, science. Basically anything and everything suitable for teens. She said they would take anything as long as it is in GOOD condition and has no writing in it.
I've asked if they would accept ARCs (new or old), and the director of the book drive, Lisa, said YES.

How to donate:
If you have books you want to give, please mail them directly to:
Perry School
c/o Margaret Pegram
128 M St. NW suite 318
Washington, DC 20001
Inside the box put a note that says "c/o Lisa P. Ballou Book Drive".

The school will be accepting books until August 22nd.

(Also, if you'd like to include some kind of quick note for the kids, words of encouragement, that would be awesome!!)

Spread the word!
Reblog this post on your blog. Tweet this post. (we're on twitter at #HSBookDrive) Tell everyone. Send books

"A Long Journey Home" book review

I received an advanced copy of "A Long Journey Home" by Margaret Robinson from The Library Things early reviewers. This is my review of this memoir of the mother of Augusten Burroughs'.
Having read Augusten Burroughs memoir, I was curious to see his mothers story. Since I found “Running With Scissors” a rather disturbing book and one I have been cautious to whom I recommended it to, I knew Margaret’s story would be a difficult one. Many others have been critical of Margaret saying she is trying to justify her actions or that her description of life doesn’t really gel with her sons books. Everyone has their take on their life and even siblings raised in the same house will remember things differently.
I read her story with an open mind wanting to hear her side of the story and try to understand her feelings. It is helpful to read how she perceived her upbringing and how her parents treated her. I am sure her mother would feel she was misunderstood by Margaret also.
That being said, I do feel a respect for Margaret that she has been able to overcome so many obstacles and remain positive. Mental illness is after all a disease of the brain and maybe some of her memories or stories are eschewed but they are how she remembers them.
I did find the writing choppy and sometimes hard to follow. It took me several weeks to finish because it was a hard story to want to read about and sometimes the story seems to drag. I am glad I read it and felt much more positive at the end than I did with “Running With Scissors”.
Margaret’s story is one you should read if you want to understand mental illness especially if you have someone in your life that is affected with it. The lesson I think you can take from this book is that we must embrace who we are, be true to ourselves and respect others for who they are.

If you would like to read more of Margaret and her poetry please visit her web page here

http://www.margaretrobison.com/home.htm

Book Review

Library Thing Book Review

I was able to snag another book from Library Thing! I am loving this site. This is the 3rd book I have received and it was one I would not have normally picked but the message has stuck with me and I feel it is worth a look.

I was plesantly surprised by this book. It drew me in right from the start. The author dangles information in pieces to keep you reading. It was not predictable as many of the inspirational books tend to be.

The subject matter many seem difficult but is presented in a way that helps you see that these things are survivable.

I did have trouble with one character through out the book. Sherriff Huff’s character is likeable enough and at some points I wondered if he was going to be crooked because of the whineing he kept doing. One inner dialoge about his desire to be with his grandkids would have been enough for the reader to get the point he did not want to remain sheriff. I found him tireing.

The author did a good job with the sadness and pain of all the characters and how we all find someone to blame for our difficulties.

The message of forgiveness and acceptance is strong and the end is inspiring. The message of the love of God is presented well without being preachy.

Many people who have not suffered may not believe some of the situations that happen but pain and hurt lead us to behave in ways we would not normally react. Even as Christians.

By putting many people who are scared, hurt and lost together, a mob mentality is likely to happen.

All in all I would reccommend this book, espically if you are going through tough times and want to be encouraged.

A Book about Dogs, Love and Houses

I just recently joined Library Things "Early Reviewers" program.
I thought it might be fun.
Well I got a book my first time choosing and what a perfect book it was for me!
Carol's story of her 42 year marriage and the 10 different dogs they had through the years sounded so much like my life!
I have only had 4 dogs and I hope I am a better chooser of breeds than she was at times. Her quick wit with the stories of her dogs made me chuckle out loud many times to where I was annoying my husband. Which leads me to her relationship with Millard, her high school sweetheart! It is so refreshing to read about a real couple. The things they loved and shared and the things they just put up with. Their love was deep and special and I am glad Carol chose to write about their life.
If you love dogs, fixing up houses, antiques and especially have a good long lasting marriage, I think this book will give you a few good evenings of pleasurable reading!
It's available now at Amazon.com or many other book stores.

(note: the real cover has a Jack Russel on the front)