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This blog to share my love of reading and the joy of opening a new book with a network of fellow bookworms. I'll talk about cozy book stores I've visited, frugal finds for a tiny fraction of the list cost, and books in my TBR and ARC piles. I love to write reviews so as Goldilocks would say there may be some that are hot, some cold and some just right.
You might find out just a wee bit about me as well. I hope you enjoy bookworm's dinner.
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By:
wisteria,
on 10/11/2016
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We Found A Hat (5 star)
by Jon KlassenCandlewick PressPublished October 11, 2016Hardcover, $17.99- ISBN-10: 0763656003
- ISBN-13: 978-0763656003
My review: Intro
I ordered Jon Klassen's new book as soon as I could. I teach at the elementary level as a library media specialist. Ever since I received advanced copies of I Want My Hat Back and This is Not My Hat I have been over the moon in love his writing. His untouchable gift to the reader is his simple text delivered through personification by cute utterly adorable animals. His brilliant illustrations show personality and hint at what each character may be thinking. (No thought bubbles needed). How truly gifted he is. My students go wild for all his books and discussions abound at the end. This is not a r
ead it once book, but will become worn through use. My students participate and role play the text with such glee. It's an experience that Klassen provides my kids that is rare.
His new book:So, I just received
We Found A Hat in my mail. I ran to the doorstep and couldn't wait to hold his new book. Once again, it is stellar, fun, witty and ADORABLE. A story of two turtles who discover one hat. Problem: What should they do? I'm never a spoiler in my reviews, so this one you have to read for yourself. I am already thinking about the questions and lessons this story will bring to my classes in the next few weeks.
Jon Klassen has a talent for pushing kids buttons in a way that makes them think, laugh and enjoy reading.....again and again. What more can we ask for? Highly recommended and a great discussion started.
In case you are interested Jon Klassen is on tour promoting his book. Details of an upcoming appearance at the Eric Carle Museum can be found
here. Further info is on his
blog. DISCLOSURE: A COPY OF THIS BOOK WAS PURCHASED BY MYSELF THROUGH AN ONLINE BOOK VENDOR.
A House Without Windowsby Nadia SashimiWilliam Morrow (August 16, 2016)
Wisteria's Review
I must begin by saying that like other reviewers have noted: I also reread many chapters in this exquisite novel centered on the protagonist Zeba, a fiercely strong and unselfishly determined Afghan woman.
Yusuf, a native Afghan male is a young and eager lawyer. He recently returned to Afghanistan after living with his parents in New York. Yusuf hears about the case and meets with Zeba at the prison. Yusuf soon discovers to his dismay that Zeba is an uncooperative client. Yet, reluctantly she agrees to his representation in her defense. However, in order to save Zeba's life he is confronted with the difficult task of uncovering answers, but for now he only has endless questions.
As the story begins, Zeba a dutiful Afghan wife and mother is found near the lifeless body of her husband. The cause of death an obvious blow to his skull with a hatchet. Naturally, family and friends are horrified by the discovery. Zeba is naturally accused of murder as she is the only one in the yard with him. She is taken to the woman's prison in Kabul, Chil Mahtab. Her children confused and helpless are whisked away to live with Zeba's husband's family.
Nadia Hashimi is a masterful storyteller. Be prepared to be entranced with each page by her poetic prose and equally engaging plot that meanders as a hurricane erratic and unexpected. As a result, the writer skillfully enhances the readers curiosity. Hashimi obviously knows her novel's direction, but as a reader you have no idea what's about to unfold. The suspense is relentless.
Nadia Hashimi is a polished storyteller. I still yearn to reread passages. I still have thoughts regarding Afghan women and their lack of human rights, women's rights and substandard status. I can't help but compare and reflect on this culture's norms. I cried many times, I ached for Zeba and the other women prisoners whose reasons for imprisonment are inconceivable. to me.
Woman's rights throughout our country and the world are of great interest and concern to me. For that reason, I read countless books that depict women who suffer and are controlled by the male dominated society where ever they reside. A HOUSE WITHOUT WINDOWS by Nadia Hashimi is by far an exceptional novel. Written with this author's heart, it is an emotionally satisfying and unforgettable read!
This book has melody, harmony and discord beautifully orchestrated from the beginning to its conclusion. I know I won't soon forget this story of Zeba and everyone's inner struggles to gain justice.
Disclosure:
I want to thank Lauren Lauzon from William Morrow for providing a copy of this book for my candid unbiased review.
By:
wisteria,
on 10/7/2016
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My Galgos, Jenson & Button: Their Story
Many of you know my passion for reading, but not as many know my passion for Greyhound rescue. I am a foster parent and have helped to assimilate many new off the track dogs as they transition from their only job they have known-that of a race dog. I do not plan to write about the greyhound industry, track life or any other aspect of the sport. My job and my mission is to help retired sighthounds find a new loving home. I like to focus on the love and positive future ahead for this awesome breed. Many of you may have have heard that they prefer a life on a couch or soft big cushy bed. It is true!! Hence the nickname: 40 mph Couch Potato.
This post is about the Galgo, a Spanish sighthound, who look very similar to what we have come to know as a racetrack English or Irish greyhound, but Galgos have different backgrounds. They were once prized but now have become throw away (disposable) dogs for the most part and are let loose after hunting season to survive or not. I have two Galgos who were found together, alone somewhere living on the Spanish countryside. They had to survive as best they could and learned to protect each other with tenacious survival skills. They became a bonded inseparable pair. They were always sighted together, but near impossible to lure to safety. They feared human contact, but in the end, with the help of Mandy Simpson with Galgos del Sol and her tireless efforts and generous volunteers, they were finally captured. They were then flown to the US and arrived in the care of Greyhound Rescue and Rehabilitation in Cross River, NY.
There are many many rescue groups throughout Europe and the United States dedicated to Galgo Rescue. This flight from Spain brought two special fosters who I soonI met. Their names were Jenson and Button. (girl and boy)
Once in my care........
They began to learn the ropes-so to speak: for example: they learned to climb stairs, easy for people, but a frightening challenge for a Galgo, who have no idea what it is like to live in a house. Now, when they head up or down the stairs, watch out. It's a race to the other end and you wouldn't wand to be caught in the middle. Yikes!!
As time passed, everything was new to them. They had to learn not to be afraid of other animals, and people. Birds at the bird feeder, chipmunks, pet store critters, and the infamous mailman. Fortunately, sighthounds should be on leash at all times so the mailman is pretty safe. Believe it or not they loved riding in the car, but hated walking in heavy traffic near trucks.
As for my neighborhood fauna, I'm not sure the squirrels in my yard will ever appreciate the sudden attack mode stance and fierce drive to lunge at them through the glass. Squirrels are like rabbits to them and a constant torment.
As an avid gardener, their ability to scare off hungry pesky deer who like to decimate buds just as they begin to bloom. (Yes, deer are cute...but they can eat other things.)
When it rains, they still have an unbreakable habit of licking the puddles rather than their ever present water bowl.
They are catlike and will lick and kiss each other endlessly with sweet affection. These two are inseparable often wrapped in each others embrace on the same pet bed. It is a a priceless picture of cuteness.
As far as weather....they hate the rain, love the heat and literally shiver when the temperature drops below 60. So, they love the pajamas, blankets, snuggling and laying in the hot sun. Come winter the woodstove is their friend.
So these are my two adorable Spanish Galgos, Jenson and Button who have given more to me than I will ever be able to repay.
Button & Jenson
(tender time together)
Within the next couple of weeks, I will again take in a foster Galgo from Spain. I am very excited and will show you a picture of the newbie as soon as she arrives.
Until then, please check out the non-profit Galgo and Greyhound Rescue Groups in you area and help in whatever way you can.
Has it really been a year since my last
Bookworm Dinner post?
At last my year long journey has taken a turn back to the roots of my passion.....writing.
- I have missed the daily/weekly posts to my blog readers.
- I have missed the time writing about one of my biggest passions, books.
- Something is indeed missing....Bookworms Dinner has been an empty plate too long.
When you love to read, love the discovery of each new book, never want that incredible new book to end because it is that good, and know you will never have enough time in your lifetime to read all you want to that grows in all possible directions.... in what readers ofter call their TBR pile. Naturally, a reader will never reach the bottom of that pile-even a determined bookworm that pens this blog.
But, then again....who would want to. How would a bookworm survive when the books run out A dear friend of mine would refer to this fortunate dilemma in life as the glow of Joie De Vivre.
By the way, I never stopped reading. I have posted reviews on Goodreads and various other social media venues, but Bookworms Dinner like an old and dear bookstore was sadly collecting dust. Here's to a return, a renewal and a rebirth of my reading notes as they brush away this years cobwebs on this blog.
How appropriate that it should take place in the last few weeks leading to Halloween.
View all my reviews on Goodreads
Disclosure: An uncorrected proof was sent to me with a request for an unbiased review. This review is my honest opinion.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2016]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
As we celebrate Banned Book Week...I stumbled upon this simple and reflective video that in my opinion captures the spirit of this occasion.
from Epic Reads.....Published on Sep 25, 2015
Next week is Banned Books Week, and we’re supporting the right to read. Books are often banned because they’re the ones that open our eyes to the world in new ways, they ask questions and might just change our lives. See what some of our favorite YA authors have to say about censoring books with these quotes!
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By:
wisteria,
on 9/27/2015
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THE PRIZE: WHO'S IN CHARGE OF AMERICA'S SCHOOLSby Dale Russakoff
Houghton Mifflin
September 2014
0547945019 ISBN 13 9780547840512
304 Pages
THE PRIZE: WHO'S IN CHARGE OF AMERICA'S SCHOOLS, commands your attention throughout. An absorbing book and necessary read for all who think educational reform will ever be realized. There is no easy solution as Russakoff gives the reader insight from a recent example in the Newark, NJ public school system. The players: I expect had grandiose intent: Christ Christie, Cory Booker, Mark Zuckerberg and Cami Anderson. Who doesn't want to reform education these days?
I consider myself an optimist, but Russakoff's years of research took me on a painful roller coaster ride through the urban city of Newark. Juggling below amid the dropping test scores, high crime, gangs, single parent homes, and general indifference is the powerhouse quartet with a staggering $200 million to play with, to reform the failing district. Lofty goals for sure, but obviously misplaced. It becomes evident in this case that political gain supersedes all. Once again, uninformed capitalists believe they can mold schools into their corporate model structure. NO!
It is not the teachers! You can't replace community schools without considering the insiders. What about people...students...parents...yes and those dedicated teachers? Support is needed on so many levels.
Dale Russakoff, a 28 year veteran reporter for Washington Post has delivered a well researched, well paced and comfortable style for all readers. Her experience shows. Her first book gives promise for her future projects.
As the author concludes and I concur, you need to
"....put the real needs of children at the center of the national conversation about education reform, which in its ideological decisiveness is in danger of leaving them behind." (218)
Kudos to Dale Russakoff for unveiling the shortsightedness of people in power. This is a dynamic and valuable addition to educational library book stacks.~Wisteria Leigh September 2015
Disclosure: Self-purchased book.
Disclosure: An uncorrected proof was sent to me with a request for an unbiased review. This review is my honest opinion.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2015]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
By:
wisteria,
on 8/9/2015
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The Hired GirlLaura Amy Schlitz
Candlewick Press
Publication month: September 2015
978-0-7636-7818-0
$17.99/$23.99 Canada
400 pages
Age 12+
Review by Wisteria©The heroine of this coming of age novel is a feisty, headstrong, inherently impulsive powerhouse-a memorable character destined to be a classic.
The Hired Girl, set in the year 1911 on a Pennsylvania farm is historical fiction. However, the author has a storyteller's magical gift to transport the readers into the mind of Joan Scraggs and her experiences through her daily diary. Joan, fourteen, lives with her three brothers and evil tempered father. After her mom dies, Joan is forced to assume her mom's arduous chores, exhaustive and thankless. She seeks solace in her passion for reading. The few books she owns have been read again and again. Her father is determined to end her educational goals and the close relationship she has with her favorite teacher. Joan is very quick witted and eager to learn. Yet, when her teacher tries to persuade her father that Joan should stay in school she is rebuked. Later, her father spews words of vitreous hatred at his daughter. Sadly, it just confirms what she has felt all along. Unloved and shackled to a hard life on the farm she makes plans to flee. As hateful as her father is, she recalls her mom's love and support. Fortunately, her mother left a rainy day treasure in the ruffles of her favorite doll. With her mother's gift and and timely luck Joan secures a job as the hired girl, with a Jewish family. Although she leads her employers to believe she is eighteen, assumes the name Janet, she settles into this new life. It is through her diary that the reader will come to empathize and love Janet (Joan). Her struggles with her own faith, love, women's roles, Anti-semitism and the social class prejudice prevalent are believable. The author captures not only the flavor of this period in history, but she allows the reader to experience Joan's her inner most thoughts, as only a diary will allow. Laura Amy Schlitz is a gifted storyteller, one of my favorite young adult/tween writers. This one is now on my list to be order for my school's media center. The Hired Girl, with multiple themes and character study possibilities, is the perfect novel for classroom libraries, literature study and read aloud. Yet it will stand out as a well loved free choice read for young and adult readers. Highly recommended. ~Wisteria Leigh
Disclosure: An uncorrected proof was sent to me with a request for an unbiased review. This review is my honest opinion.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2015]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Wanted to share...so cool. How does one do this?
Hit the Reading Road with '12 Amazing Bookmobiles'
Wisteria 4/16/15
War Dogs
Tales of Canine Heroism, History, and Love
Rebecca Frankel
Palgrave Macmillan Trade (2014),
Hardcover, 272 pages
Disclosure: A copy of War Dogs was sent to me by Library Thing Early Reviewer program in exchange for an unbiased review... submitted below.
This book offers a view of the relationship between dog handlers in the military and their dog. The bond that develops over time during training and ultimate deployment in action is remarkable. Rebecca Frankel has put together a collection of war dog stories that is memorable and thoughtful. Readers will no doubt take pause to reflect as each story is unique. However, a common thread exists throughout the book that ties these tales together. Each handler and his dog have an unbreakable bond. Each is devoted to the other with an unbreakable trust and love. So much so that they will often give their life for each other....dog for man and man for dog. Rebecca Frankel presents her stories with clarity, sensitivity and realism. Highly recommended. ~©Wisteria Leigh
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2015]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Beholding Bee
by Kimberly Newton Fusco
Published by: Knopf Books for Young ReadersFebruary 12, 2013Hardcover, 336 pages978-0375868368Lexile: 790L
Review by Wisteria©
Beeholding Bee will engage readers from the first page. Life has not been fair to Bee who at eleven became an orphan when both parents were tragically killed. She was born with a disfiguring facial birthmark which causes her to hide and withdraw inwardly. However, fortunately, Pauline, a carnival worker who knew her parents has befriended her. They both work for Ellis, the sleazy owner of the traveling carnival. By day Bee cuts onions and works with Pauline at the hotdog concession. Her home is the back of a hauling truck used by the carnival. She fears Ellis, who lurks around with threats to include Bee in his freak side show act.
Kimberly Newton Fusco uses precise descriptive prose to setting and place for readers to fully realize. Characters are multi-dimentional, descriptively real thus a perfect novel to have students focus on character traits. The novel is written in first person through Bee's voice an important author strategy that makes the reader feel Bee's pain and low self-esteem. Bee would rather be a shadow, hidden and forgotten. Another devastating break forces Bee to take charge, in order to find a new place to live. Readers will adore her spunk and vulnerability, a memorable and relevant character to identify with.
Beholding Bee lends itself to classroom discussion and literature group study in elementary and early middle school. A perfect classroom read aloud with themes reminiscent of Wonder, by R.J. Palacio.
Themes that emerge for discussion-difference, acceptance, bullying, special needs, courage and perseverance, women's roles/rights and more.
Beholding Bee, by Kimberly Newton Fusco is an essential first choice purchase for school and public libraries, and consider a classroom set purchase grade 3+. I'm sure this will be a student favorite...highly recommended.
Disclosure: This book was borrowed with no compensation.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2015]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
By:
wisteria,
on 2/16/2015
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The Price of Bloodby Patricia BracewellPublisher: VikingRelease: February 5, 2015978-0525427278448 pages
Short note from Wisteria:
Amazing! I first read Shadow of the Crown (The Emma of Normandy Trilogy #1) when it was first released.
I became fascinated with Emma of Normandy and her dominant and sagacious personality. Recently I was asked by Viking Publishers to share a Guest Post by the author, Patricia Bracewell.
Please see below. I also have a link she has shared all readers to her
Online Book Club for this novel.
I wanted to share my enthusiasm for
The Price of Blood immediately. This is a vibrant drama that pulls from the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles a portrayal of Emma of Normandy from A.D. 1006-A.D.1012. As the author notes, her presence was there when Vikings ravaged the English realm. This is the second book in the trilogy and sadly, my anxiety will have to wait for the last book. Perhaps, a bit of meditation will help. In the meantime, I might have to re-read both books. The Price of Blood begins with Emma the Queen of King AEthelred. She has little power in her own right, as women are considered pawns in a chess game. However, she hopes that the alliances she creates with the strong clergy and others will serve to enhance her power. It is for her children that she is most worried. Her marriage to Aethelred was arranged, her worth valued by her ability to produce sons. Her tenacity, patience and keen wisdom are tested, for she also is in love with a prince. A prince who the king believes would like nothing better than to unseat him. I most highly recommend this second book in the trilogy.
 |
Loving Research (for Bookworm’s Dinner)
by Patricia Bracewell
"I’m going to share with you a little secret about researching a historical novel: Novelists LOVE the research. We swoon over it, bathe in it, and struggle to tear ourselves away from it long enough to write our books. There. Now you know. My own research process, I regret to admit, is helter-skelter. Most of it is done at my desk or in a university library taking notes on whatever academic tome is open in front of me. Often there are several books open at once, scattered on the table and even on the floor when I run out of room. Sometimes I’ve been more creative: I’ve taken a summer course in Anglo-Saxon history at Cambridge University; I’ve exchanged e-mails with a thatcher in England; I’ve gazed across a tea table at an eminent historian of Anglo-Saxon textiles and whispered, “Let’s talk about medieval women’s undergarments.” I was very shy about approaching experts to ask for help when I first began my research. I’m less so now. Having a novel published in four languages has done wonders for my self-confidence. Some of my research is done on the internet: consulting databases of articles about the Anglo-Saxons; studying Old English charters; or exploring the histories of places that I want to use as settings – whether towns, villages, ancient pathways or stone circles. The facts about people’s lives, though, are not so easy to come by a thousand years on. For example, we know the names of King Æthelred’s children, but not much more than that. The dates of their births are historical guesses, not facts. The eldest son, Athelstan, left a will, and every single thing that we know about him is contained in that 2-page list of bequests. It isn’t much. Academics are willing to speculate a bit about the activities of the historical figures of England’s 11thcentury, based on whatever tiny hints they can glean from the historical record – the chronicles, the charters, the wills, even the Norse sagas. Information in such documents, though, is often contradictory, leaving even the historians puzzled about what actually happened. And then there’s the when and the how and the why to try to establish. That’s where a novelist can give her imagination free reign while an academic has to be more guarded. For the fiction writer, that’s where the fun comes in. Researching Emma’s life during the years covered by my trilogy, especially in Shadow on the Crown and The Price of Blood, was difficult because there is almost no record of her at all in those years. Her name is mentioned a few times in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle and she signs several charters, indicating that she was at court beside the king on those occasions. One charter in 1012 is a grant of land from the king to Emma, so historians conjecture that she gave birth to a son at about that time. But where was she the rest of the time and what was she doing? Because there was no other direct reference to Emma, all I could do was bury myself in the history of and make some conjectures of my own based on what I was able to learn about a queen’s duties and Emma’s later career. Frequently the vagueness of historical records forced me to invent. For instance, the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle claimed that the Danes attacked London several times in 1009, and that the Londoners always repelled them. But there was no description of what, exactly, happened when the Danes attacked. I had to make it up based on my imagination and what I could learn of the military tactics of the time. Sometimes I’ve discovered a tiny bit of information that I find really intriguing, and then I spend a lot of mental effort trying to figure out how to use it in my story. I wanted to use that gift of property from the king to Emma in 1012 that I mentioned above, but I couldn’t make it work. It just didn’t fit anywhere. The information that the thatcher sent me resulted in a terrific scene, but it was cut in a late draft. When I was at Gladstone’s Library in Wales a few months ago I learned something fascinating about Swein Forkbeard (not saying what), and now I’m trying desperately to find a way to include it in the next book. I guess you could call that the heartbreak of research – all those lovely bits that don’t make it into the novel. Research – much as we love it, sometimes we have to let it go." (by Patricia Bracewell courtesy of Meredith Burks, Viking Press)
Just fyi Pat will be tweeting out interesting #AngloSaxonFact throughout February. You can follow her at @PatBracewell. |
A review copy was sent to me for review by Viking Press, Meredith Burks, Senior Publicist in exchange for an unbiased review and guest author blog.
Disclosure: This book was sent to me for review and possible post by Henry Holt and Company. This is my unbiased personal review.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2015]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
A Royal Experiment
The Private Life of King George III
by Janice Hadlow
Published by: Henry Holt & Company
November 18th, 2014
704 pages, 9780805096569
Most American's have an opinion of King George III as the king who overtaxed the colonies, a stubborn and unreasonable tyrant. If you believe that then, A Royal Experiment, by Janice Hadlow will intrigue you.
The American Revolutionary Era in American History stands out as one of my most favorite historical time periods. I have read and studied the history of this era in post-grad classes and it never fails to dominate my personal curiosity with an influence on my reading choices. Whether non-fiction history or historical fiction, I gravitate to this setting with un-satiability. I have read biographies, memoirs, primary documents, historical texts, articles and non-fiction books that focus on the American side of the Atlantic. However, this is the first book that I have read that takes place entirely on the other side of the ocean.
From the moment I read about this book, I planned to fit it into my TBR book list. I was then fortunate to receive a review copy by the publisher, Henry Holt and Company. Janice Hadlow has written an account of King George III and his wife Queen Charlotte that is not about the American Revolution, but instead depicts the man in his less familiar role as father and husband. Who would think King George !!! had any wish to provide a stable and loving home? He and Queen Charlotte had fifteen children. Charlotte was first pregnant at age eighteen. Remarkably, thirteen of their children survived infancy.
The king was determined to show that his commitment to fidelity and family life were paramount in his life. He planned to show his kingdom, a view far different from his ancestors. It was important to him that the world see him as a devoted father and faithful husband as well as king. It was to be, as Janice Hadlow so aptly titles her book, A Royal Experiment.
Hadlow's author's notes offered new insight for this reader. I learned that Queen Charlotte, was a highly intelligent woman who resented her twenty plus years of pregnancy.She was a woman out of sync with her generation. King George !!! believed "the personal was always inextricably linked to the political" (pg xvi) and his hope was that the public would want to mirror his private life. I assumed that if his label as a tyrant in the colonies was genuine, it would carry over to his personal life. (No spoilers.)
Janice Hadlow relied on countless 18th century letters, diaries and correspondence to gather the most honest and personal account of this royal monarchy. The letters available by friends and family during the 18th century of her research are abundant. I found it humorous that she discovered they were inclined to gossip and they loved to write. One wonders what the 18th century Facebook would be like?
A Royal Experiment is a richly detailed book about King George III and Queen Charlotte. Hadlow is able to provide a fascinating full dimension view of the American Colonist's former monarch. A compelling and highly recommended history.
Disclosure: This book was sent to me for review and possible post by Henry Holt and Company. This is my unbiased personal review.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2015]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Children of the Jacaranda Tree by Sahar Delijani
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
ISBN-978-1-4767=0909-3
Atria Books
Published: 2013
Novel: History-Iran, post-revolutionary Iran, 1983-2011
This is one of the best books I have read this year! Sahar Delijani has a poetically beautiful writing style. She is able to capture the smallest nuance of life. When you read Children of the Jacaranda Tree, you will be immersed in the lives of people caught up in ongoing conflict in Iran from 1979. You will experience their lives as if a person is dictating it to those who can not see. The detail is spot on, the imagery is gorgeous. As a reader, I felt connected to the lives of the characters in her book. Honestly, it was a visual movie in my mind. Such a talented writer. Don't mis this one.
View all my review on Goodreads
Disclosure: This book was sent to me for review and possible post by Atria Books. I have written my unbiased personal reflection.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Children of the Jacaranda Tree by Sahar Delijani
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
ISBN-978-1-4767=0909-3
Atria Books
Published: 2013
Novel: History-Iran, post-revolutionary Iran, 1983-2011
This is one of the best books I have read this year! Sahar Delijani has a poetically beautiful writing style. She is able to capture the smallest nuance of life. When you read Children of the Jacaranda Tree, you will be immersed in the lives of people caught up in ongoing conflict in Iran from 1979. You will experience their lives as if a person is dictating it to those who can not see. The detail is spot on, the imagery is gorgeous. As a reader, I felt connected to the lives of the characters in her book. Honestly, it was a visual movie in my mind. Such a talented writer. Don't mis this one.
View all my review on Goodreads
Disclosure: This book was sent to me for review and possible post by Atria Books. I have written my unbiased personal reflection.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
BUNKER HILL: A City, A Siege, A Revolution
by Nathaniel Philbrick- Hardcover: 416 pages
- Publisher: Viking Adult; 1 edition (April 30, 2013)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0670025445
- ISBN-13: 978-0670025442
#2 on Amazon's Best Sellers for the Colonial Period
Official Book Trailer
My Comments:
If you have read any other books by Nathaniel Philbrick , than you know as I have discovered, his historical narratives are of the highest quality and utterly engaging. Honestly, I have had this book in my sights since before its release date last year. One thing about being an avid reader, the TBR nightstand becomes a precarious pile teetering near collapse. If not, then your bookshelves are perhaps meticulously organized, or perhaps crammed with two rows deep. One thing is certain, they all haunt this reader as they whisper "read me next." Is it me, or are there just not enough hours…to savor each book, while new temptation beckons you to the next possibility ---when you have finished?
I have to apologize to the author, as I purchased this book when it first came out. My copy is not a review copy, I bought it because I knew from past experience I wanted to read BUNKER HILL. I love American History and particularly this period in our country's birth. I call myself part sentimental, part historian and always part the curious cat. But for whatever reason, Bunker Hill is a riveting narrative about a city. A city which Philbrick calls his main character. Within the city our history plays out with the famous people we know like, Joseph Warren, John and Sam Adams, John Hancock, Revere, Washington, Gage and the loyalists and patriots. The story begins and ends with the role played by a young seven year old witness to the Battle of Bunker Hill, John Quincy Adams. With tears in his eyes the violence of the day and the death of his beloved family friend, Dr. Joseph Warren, would stay with him for his entire life. BUNKER HILL: A City, A Siege, A Revolution is superb. It has become a best seller, and is now in paperback as well. I only regret that I had not read this one sooner. I have already skimmed back numerous times. A must read for readers of American History- Philbrick is a phenomenal storyteller supported with his dense research. ~Wisteria Leigh (2014)
Disclosure: I purchased the copy of Bunker Hill for this review. WL
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Hi everyone! I wanted to pass on this list of free-public-domain book sources to you and have it handy on my blog so that I can refer back to it. Enjoy!
http://ebookfriendly.com/free-public-domain-books-sources/
The cover of the last book in Deborah Harkness's, All Souls Trilogy, has been revealed. THE BOOK OF LIFE will be released by Viking on July 15th 2014.
I have read the first two books in this trilogy and have eagerly awaited Ms. Harkness's concluding novel,
The Book of Life. The first two books
A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES and
SHADOW OF NIGHT had me on the edge of my seat more than not. Sure to generate fright, anxious and edgy drama, the trilogy somehow is movie-like, imagery forms in the mind induced by this writer's exceptional story in print.
Harkness has conceived erotically enticing and memorable characters who will grip readers in their otherworldly schemes of good vs evil. The allure is irresistible and readers will be drawn forward without awareness of time. I know I was a captive audience for the first two books and expect THE BOOK OF LIFE to be the same.
Below is an excerpt, tagged with the author credit lines. I hope you will be as excited as I am for this highly anticipated conclusion. If you haven't read the first two books, you have time to catch up on this
entertaining thriller from the other side.
BOOK OF LIFE- EXCERPT by Deborah Harkness*
Ghosts didn’t have much substance; they were composed only of memories and heart. Atop one of Sept-Tours’ round towers, Emily Mather pressed a diaphanous hand against the spot in the center of her chest that even now was heavy with dread.
It had been her witch’s sixth sense that someone was in mortal peril that had steered Emily down the path leading to this moment. But the death she had foreseen was her own.
Does it ever get easier? Her voice, like the rest of her, was almost imperceptible. The watching? The waiting? The knowing?
Not that I’ve noticed, Philippe de Clermont replied shortly. He was perched nearby, studying his own transparent fingers.
Emily’s face fell, and Philippe silently cursed himself. Since she’d died, the witch had been his constant companion, cutting his loneliness in two.
Perhaps it will be easier when they don’t need us anymore, Philippe said more gently. He might be the more experienced ghost, but it was Emily who understood the metaphysics of their situation. What the witch had told him went against everything Philippe believed about the Afterworld.
Diana’s warm alto floated up to the battlements. Diana and Matthew, Emily and Philippe said in unison, peering down on the cobbled courtyard that surrounded the château.
There, Philippe said, pointing at the drive. Even dead, his vampire sight was sharper than any human’s. He was also still more handsome than any man had a right to be, with his broad shoulders and devilish grin. He turned the latter on Emily, who couldn’t help grinning back. They are a fine couple, are they not? Look how much my son has changed.
Vampires weren’t supposed to be altered by the passing of time, and so Emily expected to see the same black hair, so dark it glinted blue; the same celadon eyes, cool and remote as a winter sea; the same pale skin and wide mouth. There were a few subtle differences though, as Philippe suggested. Matthew’s hair was shorter, and he had a beard that made him look even more dangerous, like a pirate. She gasped.
Is Matthew—bigger? . . . Diana looks different, too. More like her mother, with that long coppery hair.
Diana stumbled on a cobblestone and Matthew’s hand shot out to steady her.
It’s not just Diana’s hair that has changed. Philippe’s face had a look of wonder. Diana is with child—Matthew’s child.
Emily examined her niece more carefully, using the supernatural grasp of truth that death afforded.
What will happen now, Philippe?Emily asked, her heart growing heavier.
Endings. Beginnings, Philippe said with deliberate vagueness. Change.
Diana has always resisted change, Emily said.
That is because she is afraid of what she must become, replied Philippe.
*From The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness. Reprinted by arrangement with Viking, a member of Penguin Group (USA) LLC, a Penguin Random House company. Copyright © Deborah Harkness, 2014.
Dickens 2014 Classic Challenge
Challenge Details
To sign up just use the Mister LInky widget and indicate how many books you think you will read.
- For this challenge, you decide which and the quantity of works by Charles Dickens you wish to read.
- Read One……You are: Oliver Twist
- Read Two……You are: A Tale of Two Cities
- Read Three….You are: Our Mutual Friend
- Will you be Oliver Twist---A Tale of Two Cities or … Our Mutual Friend?
- For example: Bookworms Dinner, One Book, etc
- Add the link(s) of your review(s) including your name and book title to the Mister Linky. I’ll be adding to my monthly recap post (please, do not add your blog link, but the correct address that will guide us directly to your review). You may also link to your review on Goodreads. For example: Bookworms Dinner, Great Expectations, URL to your review.
- ENOY THE CHALLENGE! I'm looking forward to reading your reviews. I'm curious to find out how many Dickens fans are in the blog world. :) You may read any selection written by Charles Dickens.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
In the past few years I have been a World Book Night Giver. World Book Night has been very exciting for me as a library/media specialist. Recipients have been excited, surprised and grateful for the opportunity to read something I have had previously read. Just like my students, everyone wants to know about the book, so impromptu book talks are common. I hope to be a giver again this year. I have linked the book selections below.
For my readers who don't know about this organization, here is the press release:
World Book Night U.S. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading the love of reading, person to person. For more information about World Book Night,
please visit our About Us section.
The media plays an important role in the success of World Book Night U.S. For the past two years, they helped us broadcast to local and national communities the effort and hard work that went into distributing half a million books to light and non-readers across the country. Without the media, many of the wonderful stories that happened on April 23, 2013 would have gone unnoticed.
If you are a member of the media interested in learning more about World Book Night U.S., please contact us at
[email protected], or email our Executive Director at
[email protected]
If you would like to support World Book Night here is an easy link to follow:
Booklist for 2014
http://www.us.worldbooknight.org/images/2014/2014Resources_AND_docs/2014_WBN_Title_Information_for_Booksellers_and_Librarians.pdf
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
FORGOTTEN PATRIOTS:An Untold Story of American Prisoners During the Revolutionary WarEdwin G. Burrows (Pulitzer Prize Winning co-author of GOTHAM)
Basic Books
November 17, 2008
Hardcover, $27.50
978-0-465-00835-3
Boldly written history of American Patriots and civilians who suffered inconceivably inhuman treatment on numerous prison ships and sugar houses during the American Revolutionary War at the hands of the British.
Burrows presents his research and unveils the horrors inflicted on over 30,000 captured patriots. These brave, yet unfortunate prisoners chose to live in retched squalor, close to starvation, surrounded by disease and death, rather than switch allegiance to England.
This is a part of American History that missed the textbooks in school. It was a surprise to me. Perhaps if you live in the area of New York and New Jersey, you are aware of this unspeakable part of history. Truly, it really has been forgotten. It took over one hundred years to dedicate a monument to these patriots.
Why study history? Many professors would caution, we study history to learn from the past. With our 21st century awareness, it is not hard to make comparisons with our global community and reflect on the human rights abuse and suffering in our country and around the world.
incredible book of timely relevance that will shock and sicken readers. It is a difficult subject to fathom. The conditions and numbers of dead who suffered are staggering. Questions may be answered with many more generated.
Edwin Burrows' book is a valuable and necessary addition to American History shelves. Excellent.
Disclosure: This book was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review. This review is my honest opinion.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2013]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/1276167-wisteria-leigh">View all my reviews
REVOLUTIONARY MOTHERS: WOMEN IN THE STRUGGLE FOR AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE,
Carol Berkin
Vintage Books
February 14, 2006
Paperback, 224 pages, $16.00
978-1400075324.
Much praise is given to Carol Berkin for this important addition to our American Revolutionary War history shelves. It is a fascinating history of women that may surprise some readers and raise questions for others. Often overlooked and forgotten, the women who lived and died while the struggle for our independence was fought are recognized in REVOLUTIONARY MOTHERS: WOMEN IN THE STRUGGLE FOR AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE.
Some may be surprised to learn that Martha Washington and many other officers wives accompanied their husbands in battle. British and Hessian officers adopted a temporary substitute wife, while the average soldier, had numerous women to pick from the hoards of camp followers who tagged along. What Berkin points out is that it was only natural for women to follow men into battle, because men needed someone to care for them. Whether to do laundry, cook, nurse the sick or carnal pleasure, the men were better soldiers with their women along, and their leaders knew it.
Whether the women were involved in actually fighting, which they were or travelling along side their spouse, women of all races had numerous roles to satisfy. Chapters detail the various roles women played in Colonial Society and during and after the war. There were those who were left home, others who followed, some were General’s wives, or loyalists in exile, Indian Women, African American Women and many women became spies or couriers.
This book evokes a penchant to read more about forgotten and omitted women who have historical relevance. The endnotes and bibliography offer a place to begin. Readers will no doubt recognize famous men from this war, but those who find it difficult to name any famous women, will devour with fervor, REVOLUTIONARY MOTHERS: WOMEN IN THE STRUGGLE FOR AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE.
Wisteria Leigh
December 2013
Disclosure: Self-purchase
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2013]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Hope to see you there. I will be on Twitter!
Cries of the Lost
sequel to Dead Anyway
November 22, 2013
by Chris Knopf
Advance Praise
0 Comments on
Cries of the Lost as of 1/1/1900
SWIMMING IN THE MOONby Pamela Schoenewaldt
William Morrow
978-0062202239Paperback, 368 pagesSeptember 3, 2013
Lucia has moments of doubt about her mother Teresa Esposito’s sometimes peculiar behavior. She never knew her father, who deserted the two before she was born. Their mother/daughter bond is strong, so tender, they even share the same bed. They are both servants for the Count and Countess Monforte in Naples, Italy in 1905. Teresa sings like an angel and she often is called upon to soothe the Countess during her frequent migraines. The Count is a contentious cad, impressed with his privileged position and own self-importance.
One day, Teresa becomes the subject of an experimental treatment for hysteria as The Count and his doctor test the efficacy of his Rube Goldberg invention. Lucia appears unexpectedly and demands her mother’s immediate release. Unfortunately, Lucia becomes the next victim in their experiments. Teresa explodes with anger and rage as she strikes the Count down. Desperate to avoid capture and prosecution their options are limited as the Count’s influence is far-reaching.
Lucia, 14 years old, suggests they sail to America. Although, the idea of leaving Italy leaves Teresa glum. Their passage is paid for by the Countess. Forged papers are created by her staff along with a letter of introduction to a boarding house in Cleveland.
They decide to Americanize their names to Lucia and Teresa D’Angelo. Teresa ultimately takes on the persona of the “Naples Nightingale” and is hired by a traveling vaudeville show. Lucia continues her studies at school and works hard as a scribe. Gradually, the demons and hysteria insinuate deeper into Teresa’s personality. Lucia must alter her plans to take care of her mother.
SWIMMING IN THE MOON is an exceedingly rich historical novel on so multiple levels. The characters are spot-on realistic, familiar and readers will easily empathize with their lives. Lucia is the quintessential immigrant of this era, determined to succeed, hard-working and practical, never extravagant. Schoenewaldt brings out the many social issues of the day. Lucia’s eyes attest to the poor working conditions, long hours and low pay. Likewise, Teresa’s plight unveiled as if a documentary, uncovers the filthy facilities and limited choices available to care for the mentally ill and their families.
SWIMMING IN THE MOON has the same delicious flavor of America’s history that Pamela Schoenewaldt brought out in her novel When We Were Strangers. Her compassion and love for the immigrant stories that shaped America have a compelling appeal. A sensitive novel to treasure that will live on in your heart.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I also own the Kindle edition that was purchased by me at Amazon.
© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2013]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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