Book Review: The War That Saved My Life

Ada and her brother, Jamie, have lived in London all their lives, but they don't know how long that's been. You see, they don't know when they were born. 

Born with a club foot, Ada is trapped in their run-down apartment by her emotionally and physically abusive mother. she watches the world through her small apartment window, as other children, including her brother, play in the street, go to school and live a life of freedom and mobility.

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is set during WW II and is appropriately written for middle grade readers. Full of insecurities and flaws, Ada is a relatable and endearing character. When the children are evacuated from London to a small town in the country, to keep them safe from bombing, she determines that she and Jamie will go, even without their mother's blessing. 

It is there that they meet Susan Smith, a single woman, a little rough around the edges and not accustomed to children, tasked with keeping the siblings safe. But she becomes much more than a simple guardian.

Bradley does a fantastic job of getting to the core emotional issues of the characters, delving into the anxiety of fitting into a new place and not understanding much of anything in their new surroundings. Because of the abuse Ada has suffered all her life, she pushes back against every attempt to nurture or love. Its heart-breaking and honest and beautiful and the readers takes the journey with her in discovering her individual worth and identity. 

This is a great story for elementary age kids to introduce WW II from a different perspective (as opposed to hiding Jews and concentration camps). But more importantly, its a story about finding your own value and standing up for yourself, learning who you are and learning to trust other people. 

(cautious parent warning: there is reference to Susan Smith having a female friend that she lived with and was very close to. This relationship caused a rift between her father, who is a preacher, and causes her to be uncomfortable or unwelcome at church. So take that for what its worth. Its not a significant part of the book and not important to the main story line)

Beastly

Its been a while since I've done a book review. But today I just feel like it, which is funny, considering I'm not in love with this book.

"Beastly" by Alex Flinn, is very much geared toward a specific audience. That would be passionate, socially current, fashion minded, emotionally charged, young people. All of which I am most definitely not. I take that back. I am most assuredly emotionally charged (post-partum anyone?) but not the teenage angst type of emotionally charged, which powers a lot of this book.

This novel is a new and current take on the Beauty and the Beast fairytale. An arrogant young man is caught in his bad behavior and cursed by a witch. His curse is that his outward appearance match his inner self, which is beastly to behold. And thus starts the young man's journey to discover a truer and more pure heart. As is expected in a retelling, all the ingredients of the original story are there. The castle, the roses, the household help who stand by him and, of course, a young lady with a pure heart who sees through his exterior beastliness.

The fun of the book is in the current surroundings. High school, New York, subways, dances and modern dialogue. I appreciated how the author took the opportunity to show other ugly (or beastly) parts of society as well, beyond just the young man. It kind of made me realize how ugly begets ugly to some degree and perhaps he was somewhat a sum of his surroundings. I was somewhat put off by the amount of teen angst and that most of it was centered on physical desires. It was not horrible and pretty nit-picky of me to even mention it. In fact, I probably wouldn't mention it if the characters were older, but I guess I'm over sensitive to teens thinking that the crushes they have in high school are the ultimate, most passionate relationships they will have. (Don't get me started on Twilight.)

It was a quick book to read, but definitely geared toward a younger generation than me. Nevertheless, I was interested throughout and really cared about what happened to the young man. And the ending was satisfying. 3 STARS (out of 5)

Three Cups of Tea

I finished reading "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson, about a week ago. I found this book to be so inspiring -- awe-inspiring as well as motivational. Greg Mortenson is motivated by the simple belief that all children, everywhere, should have the opportunity to gain an aducation. More specifically, that girls should have that opportunity - for it is through women that communities are educated and are able to make true social progress. But Greg Moretenson doesn't seem to do things the easy way.

His book relates the long and detoured path he takes in establishing schools in some of the most remote areas of Pakistan. Perhaps to the credit of his co-writer, David Relin, his experiences read like a novel and keep the reader interested in each new development or roadblock. The individuals Greg works with and the areas he visits are described in a way to bridge the distance from Pakistan to the U.S. so that we feel like we are sharing a cup or two of tea with them ourselves.

 

Great passage

I've been reading "A Long Fatal Love Chase" for bookclub this month. What kind of trashy romance-addicted, froo-froo, shallow bookclub do I attend, you ask? Its actually a great bookclub and this novel is not trashy. In fact, it is written by Louisa May Alcott. She wrote it a couple of years before "Little Women." It was actually deemed "too sensational" to publish when she originally wrote it and was later discovered by this current publishers in 1993.

Anyway, it was a fun romantic thriller to read well written. I feel compelled to record one of my favorite passages. It is set after the hero and villain fight and the hero wins. The following is a description of the hero.

"Few men had ever conquered Tempest in anything and he felt
superior to most; but this man surpassed him in strength, skill,
courage and magnanimity, for, hard as he was, Tempest still felt the beauty
of a generous act, a noble word.

"Ignatius had conquered in love and war;
had borne insult meekly for himself,
had avenged it manfully for another,
had given compassion for contempt,
and having won the victory generously spared his enemy."

But the story is far from over at that point and Tempest is not so changed as he may seem at that moment of defeat. So if you want a good romance thriller to read during the Valentine season, this is a good pick.

Photog

I love to look at beautiful photograhs. You know the ones -- they speak to your heart. It seems to me, a really great photograph has power.

Power to make you laugh, despite yourself,

try to swallow that lump that has suddenly appeared in your throat,

feel inspired to be so much better than who you are,

or simply to be grateful for the beauty that surrounds you,

whether it be your natural surroundings

or your own gorgeous children.

I long to be that kind of photographer. Alas, I'm hampered by my own lack of confidence and my super-nice but simple, point and shoot camera. Regardless, I AM the family photojournalist and relish the responsibility. And I have found a great book to help me improve my picture-taking abilities.

"Expressions" by Donna Smylie and Allison Tyler Jones is a great book for aspiring photographers. Although it is geared somewhat for cameras a little more sophisticated than my point and shoot, I still absorbed lots of great tips.

The authors go into detail regarding the "five 'S's of Compostition":

See the Possibilities

Subject

Simplify the frame

Setting

Share the Story

And the "four 'M's of Lighting":

Main Light

Meter

Mood

Modify

Each section was written in a simple manner, so that I could understand the technique, even as an amateur, without being condescending, which I appreciated. Scattered through the pages were also "photo notes" and captions, that helped clarify things a little more.

Admittedly, perhaps the best part of the book are all the striking pictures that not only illustrate the technique, but inspire and speak to you. It is a quick read and very worthwhile to those of us who long to take beautiful pictures, even if it is with a simple point and shoot camera.

Alien Abduction?

Alan Weisman, an award-winning journalist, researches every possible corner of the idea of an abandoned world in his book, "The World Without Us."

Its pretty interesting to consider the situation. What would happen to the world if we (homo sapiens, as we are referred to throughout the book, merely another species) suddenly disappeared? What if a virus took us out in less than a day? or a natural disaster? What if we were raptured away to heaven? or aliens abducted the entire human species? Would the world return to its "Garden of Eden" state or have we humans done too much damage? How long would it take and how would it happen?

Weisman divides his book into several segments, looking at different aspects of the theory of a world left to itself. He begins in the city, and how quickly plants, both native and imported, natural and landscaped, would take over the buildings, subways, streets, and sidewalks. He discusses where we came from, the future of our empty cities and their new inhabitants, the animals who will evolve to take our place.

Stepping outside the city, Weiman focuses other chapters on the evolution of man in Africa, polymers and the lifespan of plastics, petrol and nuclear impacts on the world and even farming and its influence on the natural state of the earth. His visualization of the future is research packed and is interesting, forcing you to think broadly and objectively about the impact of the human race.

This book heavily relies on the opinions and studies of a variety of scientists, researchers and activists. Although his expansive research does give the theories some credibility, sometimes it gets bogged down in the science of it all and the hundreds of thousands of years he uses as a reference for the life-span of the earth is often times too big to comprehend. Which is fine if you are scientifically minded. But if you're like me, you realize much of the content is going over your head and you just don't care. There is a lot to learn, much of it interesting and much of it I just don't agree with.

Despite all the research and science, what is missing is spirituality. Religion and faith are referred to, in the last chapter, but merely as an obligatory side-note, just another theory. In fact, religion seems to be ridiculed in this passage, concerning the resurrection. Commenting that a messianic reign would result in a severe population reduction of the unrighteous, Weiman follows up, "unless...the dead would be resurrected, which could trigger both resource and housing crises." Really? Would we really be worried about resources and housing during a messianic reign?

He ends his musings on the subject of depopulation of the earth so that we can experience "the growing joy of watching the world daily become more wonderful." They call it 'voluntary human extinction,' limiting every human female capable of bearing children, to one. At this point, I have forgotten anything scientifically worthwhile in the previous 300 pages. What he says in the last 5 pages, in my humble opinion, discredits it all. Its just a completely different paradigm, void of faith. But then it gets better, or worse, as he explores another option. A microbiologist Weisner interviews suggests, we "find a fertile planet somewhere big enough for all of us, holographically clone our bodies, and upload our minds across light-years." He then has the audacity to say, "Unless...there really is something called a spark of life."

An interesting book, but too far from my faith-based paradigm to give much credence to. Suffice it to say, I will not read it again or place it in my home library. That being said, its up for grabs if any wants to read it.

Sent by Post

I'll admit it

I'm a blog stalker. I don't do it a lot... but I"ll admit...I do it. Its kind of fun to get a glimpse into a stranger's life, anonymously of course. To hear about their comings and goings, trials and triumphs, gains and losses.

And this latest novel is a blog stalker's dream, only it has nothing to do with blogs. In fact, the concept would have made the characters turn their heads and laugh politely into their handkerchief. This book is completely written via snail-mail, pencil-to-paper, written-letter correspondence and its fascinating.

"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" takes place in 1946, post WW II era, on Guernsey, a small island in the English Channel. And from the first page, we are trespassing into someone's personal correspondence. Extremely well researched by Mary Ann Shaffer, the stories of World War II come to life through the vibrant and endearing characters she creates and the stories they tell.

Juliet, the primary letter-writer, is an author in London who is contacted by Dawsey Adams, of Guernsey, who has come across an old book of hers, books being a rare find on the once-Nazi occupied island. As their correspondence continues, we come to know the story of a group of people brought together on one fated night marking the origin of their literary society. Its an eclectic group of individuals holding fast to one another as they survive the atrocities of that terrible war.

Written-correspondence was such a brilliant way to frame this book. It immediately put me on a friendly and intimate level with the characters, privileged to conversation that might only take place between good friends. Much to the author's credit, the personality of each character is thorougly developed through these letters, with great detail and imagery creating an easy picture of events in my mind.

It certainly doesn't take long to feel drawn to Juliet as a friend. Her down-to-earth, quick-wit makes sure of that. The same is to be said of all the characters. Juliet quickly makes friends with others in the Guernsey literary society, via correspondence, as she gathers information, eventually aiming to compile a book of their war experiences. As the stories are told, the characters come to life, as well as the tragic experiences they survived. Soon enough, Juliet travels to Guernsey and comes to love the island as much as she does the people. And the feelings are reciprocated as she immerses herself in their lives.

If you enjoy World War II novels, you must read this one. "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" is a wonderful story about friends, developing relationship, surviving because of each other and the true depth and beauty of the inter-dependent weaving of friends when family is gone.

I can't get no...

...satisfaction...

Alex is not happy with the way his life is going. Although he is busy enough, working with his step-brother at the Happy Dragon tavern his step-father runs, he is yet unsatisfied. But all of that changes for Alex while on a walk to cool his temper and clear his mind.

Seeing a sign that reads "Adventurers Wanted" in the window of a small book store marks the beginning of, well, an adventure. That's what adventurers do, afterall. But we soon find out that Alex is not your average adventurer. His ability to simply see the "wanted" sign marks him as someone destined for greatness, of great power and strength. His valor, however, is something he has to determine himself.

Alex is quickly introduced to the obligatory forrest-dwelling elf and tunnel-dwelling dwarf as he begins his journey as the eighth member of an adventuring team on the hunt for Malgorath's treasure, a dragon whose notoriety precedes him as well as the magnitude of his treasure.

Troll encounters and bandit fights ensue as Alex begins his adventure, not just in pursuit of treasure, but in pursuit of who he really is. Although meeting with an Oracle gives him some needed confidence and comfort in his search for identity, he still wrestles with doubts as simple as whether or not he believes in magic; and as complex as whether or not he can rise to the power everyone is convinced is within him. And if he does believe he is someone remarkable, what will he do with that knowlege? And there-in lies the true beginning of his adventure.

His search for identity continues as Alex returns home and discovers there is more to his background than he thought. Regardless of the doubts and questions that still run through his mind and his continual search for a more complete self-identity, he is satisfied in knowing he is not just common help in the tavern. He is an adventurer.

Once a lovestory, always a lovestory

My good neighbor suggested, as I am an avid reader, that I post reviews of the books I read. And so I shall.

STARDUST

by Neil Gaiman

Tristran Thorn is in love. His love for Victoria Forester drives him, not only to wish on a falling star, but to embark on a grand adventure to find that star. Upon his successful return, the star will redeem for him, a kiss from Victoria and possibly a "happily ever after" with her.

What Tristran doesn't realize is that he is no ordinary, love-struck boy from the city of Wall. The mother he never knew is from Faerie, on the other side of the wall for which his city is named. Once he passes through the wall and enters this land of Faerie himself, the magical part of his heritage begins to become dominant and strange and wonderous adventures ensue. Tristran is ready for adventure and willing to do almost anything to return the star to Victoria. Its easy to relate to him, who is an unlikely and unassuming protagonist and is often just as surprised and entertained by the magic that surrounds him as we are.

With a little help from an unlikely travel companion, Tristran finds his star, who is spunky, self-assured and one we immediatley care about as a seemingly lost orphan, injured and fallen from the only home she's known. We soon discover Tristran is not the only one in search of such a prize. This particular star also holds the key to the throne of Stormhold, as well as a heart that beats strong with the promise of extended youth for a weathered witch.

But who will find the star first? And once found, who will be able to keep possession of it? There are some adventures to be had, but much of the potential for what I would term as "good fantasy adventure" is cut short by way of magic that carries Tristran through and above such opportunity. Unfortunately this prevents some much needed character development, even for some of the more minor characters. The author seems to have had the outline for an epic of sorts and just glossed over it. Mildly dissappointing.

As for the love story -- it is put on hold throughout most of the story to make way for adventure, and is adequately revivied in the return to Wall, in which all parties are rendered happy and, with a few clever surprises, loose ends are neatly tied for a satisfying conclusion to both a fun adventure and unexpected love story.

*** warning for ultra sensitive readers - there is some sensuality, mostly in the beginning. Nothing too offensive but surprised me a little. I would read it yourself before giving it to a teen or pre-teen.

What to read?

Several people have asked me for more recommendations for summer reading. After all, it IS my favorite thing to do. Not just during the summer, but anytime of the year, anytime of the day. So…I’ve created a relatively random list separated into semi-accurate categories. As far as rating the books: Here is the key.

Ending: Was the ending worth it?
Characters: Do I still think about the characters?
Engagement: How easy was it to put the book down? (out of 3, 3 being hard to put it down)
Theme: Was there a moral/societal issue worth exploring?
Rating: Overall rating? (out of 5, 5 being the high score)

And just to qualify some of my ratings, sometimes the theme is stronger than the characters, or the ending is better than the character development or even the plot. Sometimes the characters out-weigh all. So take it for what its worth. I love all these books and would read them all again this summer if I didn’t have so many other books on my list yet to read.

Young/adolescent

Candy Shop Wars by Brandon Mull –

Ending: yes
Characters: sometimes
Engagement: 1
Theme: nothing major
Rating: 3
Ruby Holler by Sharon Creech
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 2
Theme: yes
Rating: 4
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 2
Theme: absolutely, so many levels
Rating: 5

Women/coming of age

These Is My Words by Nancy Turner
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 3
Theme: yes
Rating: 5
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Kidd
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 3
Theme: yes
Rating: 5
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Ending: ended too soon, in a good way. I just wanted more, more, more
Characters: absolutely
Engagement: 3
Theme: yes
Rating: 5

Adventure/sci-fi

Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Ending: great for a discussion
Characters: not really
Engagement: 2
Theme: sort of, sure
Rating: 4
The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer
Ending: yes
Characters: not really
Engagement: 2
Theme: yes, great discussion
Rating: 5
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Ending: yes
Characters: no
Engagement: 2
Theme: everyone should be thinking about this
Rating: 5
Pope Joan by Donna Cross
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 3
Theme: yes
Rating: 5 – this book really has it all.

Classic

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 3
Theme: yes
Rating: 5 – it just doesn’t get better than this. It really doesn’t.
Oedipus the King by sophocles
Ending: yes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 1 – its challenging to read Greek theater prose, it just is.
Theme: yes, yes, and yes
Rating: 5

Series

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Ending: sort of, but its not over yet
Characters: yes
Engagement: 3
Theme: love story
Rating: 4
Books: Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn
Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander
Ending: yes
Characters: no
Engagement: 2
Theme: yes
Rating: 4
Books: The Book of Three, The Black Cauldron, The Castle of Llyr, Taran Wanderer, The High King
Women of Genesis by Orson Scott Card
Ending: not really – I want to read about the 12 tribes
Characters: yes
Engagement: 2
Theme: yes
Rating: 4
Books: Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel and Leah

Feel free to share any of your good reads in the comments. We would all benefit! Happy Reading!!!!

Favorite Summer Read

There is one book that stands out above others as my favorite summertime read. Harry Potter? No. Twilight? No. Don't misunderstand. I love those books and am waiting with bated breath for "Breaking Dawn." But my summer fave is "The Count of Monte Cristo." I love the depth of the passion found in both the charity and forgivness and the revenge. I love the frailty of human nature and the weakness of character, even in noble and honorable men. I am sorrowed at the betrayal, the lost love and the hardships thrown upon the characters. I am impressed and delighted by the discovery of knowledge and intelligence in the lowliest of places. I am captivated by the pursuit of revenge and judgment over love and mercy. I was swept away by the passion, vigor, love and hate of this novel and say to anyone looking for a summer read...read "The Count of Monte Cristo." (Abriged version recommended.)

Please indulge me in sharing two favorite excerpts.

(When Dantes first sees the isand, Monte Cristo)
"At seven o'cock the next evening all was ready, at ten minutes past seven they rounded the lighthouse just as the beacon was kindled. The sea was calm with a fresh wind blowing from the south-east; they sailed under a sky of azure where God was also lighting up his lanterns, each one of which is a world."


Having repaid, in kind, those who had treated him kindly, Dante prepares to repay those by whom he has not been treated well.
""Now, farewell to kindness, humanity, gratitude," said he. "Farewell to all the sentiments which rejoice the heart. I have played the part of Providence in recompensing the good, may the god of vengeance now permit me to punish the wicked!" Muttering these words, he made a sign, and the yacht immediately put out to sea."

And then again, the movie is pretty great. But the book is better. Let me refer you once again to the excerpts provided above. :)