Title: The Uncoupling
Author: Meg Wolitzer
ISBN: 9781594487880
Pages: 288
Release Date: April 5, 2011
Publisher: Riverhead
Genre: Literary Fiction
Source: Publisher
Rating: 3 out of 5

Summary:

When the new drama teacher at a high school in Stellar Plains, NJ chooses Lysistrata as the annual play, people are concerned.  After all, is a production about women withholding sex in order to protest a war really appropriate for high schoolers?  But when the women of Stellar Plains begin to lose any drive they once had to sleep with their husbands, life begins to imitate art in the most interesting of ways.

Review:

The Uncoupling is a thought provoking novel about the connections between war and sex.  In Lysistrata, men go to die in an unending war for nothing.  There is no purpose to it anymore, but they fight because to do otherwise would take away some of their power.  There is power for men in war.  So the woman protest in the best way they can - they refuse to have sex with their husbands until the war is over.  That is where their power lies.  It’s an interesting discussion, and one that Wolitzer really delves into in her novel.

However, The Uncoupling didn’t work for me as well as I’d hoped.  While I thoroughly appreciated and reveled in the philosophical discussions, the story was lacking for me.  I didn’t connect with any of the characters - there are many packed into this short book, and I felt like the story was constantly jumping from one to another in order to flesh out the larger themes.  Even then, though, I felt like the book was barely scratching the surface.  There are so many storylines, so many themes, that Wolitzer could have explored in this novel, yet I feel like there was very little depth to it.  It was all on the surface.

The plot of The Uncoupling also didn’t thrill me.  While I loved the premise and was excited to see what Wolitzer would do with it, the novel never came together.  I kept waiting for the plot to develop, waiting for some sort of forward movement, and then all of a sudden the book was over.  The ending was surprising and enjoyable, but it didn’t make up for the serious lack of forward momentum in the rest of the novel.

I really wanted to love The Uncoupling, but it just fell short for me.  I adored the commentary on how old literature is still relevant, but overall lack of development kept me from really enjoying it.  I will say that almost everyone I know who has read this book has absolutely loved it, so I’d definitely check out some other reviews if you’re still interested in this novel.

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Title: The Thirteen Hallows
Author: Michael Scott & Colette Freedman
ISBN: 9780765328526
Pages: 352
Release Date: December 6, 2011
Publisher: Tor Books
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

Sarah Miller is going about her day when she sees an old woman being attacked.  Little does she know that, in running to the woman’s rescue, her life will be changed irrevocably.  The woman, Judith, is a Keeper of one of the thirteen Hallows, a group of ancient and powerful artifacts that some will stop at nothing to obtain.  Sarah finds herself embroiled in a deadly supernatural battle with no knowledge of how to stop it.

Review:

The Thirteen Hallows is a mix of urban fantasy, the supernatural, and ancient history.  The Thirteen Hallows derive from Welsh history, and Scott and Freedman have brought them into the modern day setting with their novel.  As a result, the book is imbued with a fascinating mythology, one that any history lover will appreciate.  Setting the book inside existing legend gives the book a certain gravitas it would not have been able to create on its own.

Because Michael Scott is the author of some fantasy books aimed at young readers, some have assumed that The Thirteen Hallows is written for the same audience.  However, that is not the case.  This book is aimed at adults.  There is a lot of sex and violence in this book, gratuitous amounts in my opinion, so don’t give this book to your child on an assumption.  The gory depictions in this novel are difficult to stomach, and I’ll admit, I skimmed more than one stomach-turning scene.

Still, despite my distaste for the sheer amount of violence in this book, I did enjoy it quite a bit.  As discussed previously, the history is fascinating.  The main character, Sarah Miller, is appealing, and it’s really interesting to see how the Hallows change her over the course of the novel.  She is definitely not the same person at the end as the beginning, and I loved witnessing that development.  I will admit that I wished the book focused more on the history, less on the action, but The Thirteen Hallows is a novel that doesn’t let up for a second.

It’s clear that The Thirteen Hallows is the first in a series, and I look forward to seeing what comes next.  Scott and Freedman have set up a fascinating premise in this book, and I look forward to delving more into the hallows in future novels.  If you’re a fan of urban fantasy, I’d definitely consider checking this book out (at least, as long as you aren’t faint of heart).

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Good morning everyone! This week has been all about catching up and getting some reading done, which I’ve loved.  It’s always nice to have one of those quiet weeks where you don’t have to stress out about anything - I almost forgot what that felt like! 

I finished quite a few books this week, which is a welcome change.  There are so many great books coming out in 2012, and I seem to want to read all of them!  Some of the great ones I read this week are A Grown Up Kind of Pretty by Joshilyn Jackson, Outside the Lines by Amy Hatvany, and The House at Sea’s End by Elly Griffiths.  I adored all of these books.  Of course, now that I’ve stepped up on reading, I’m uber-behind on reviews.  It’s a vicious cycle, but one that I love to be a part of!

Next week, the blog posting schedule returns to normal, which will be nice.  I’m also hoping to have a lot of reading time again, as it’s how I unwind and decompress after a long day.

Reviews posted this week:

A Red Herring Without Mustard - Alan Bradley	Sarah’s Key - Tatiana de Rosnay
Affairs of Steak - Julie Hyzy	If Jack’s In Love - Stephen Wetta
Boozehound - Jason Wilson	Blind Submission - Debra Ginsberg
The Partly Cloudy Patriot - Sarah Vowell

Title: The Partly Cloudy Patriot
Author: Sarah Vowell
ISBN: 9780743243803
Pages: 197
Release Date: September 23, 2003
Publisher: Simon & Schuster (Print) / Simon & Schuster Audio
Genre: Non-Fiction, Essays, Audiobook
Source: Personal Copy
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Summary:

In this essay collection, Sarah Vowell discusses subjects such as her obsession with Canada, her experiences at George W. Bush’s presidential inauguration, how life is different when you are a twin, and more.

Review:

The Partly Cloudy Patriot is a collection of observations and thoughts from Sarah Vowell, a gifted and highly amusing writer with an American history obsession.  These essays are short; rather than being in-depth and focused pieces, they are random, almost stream-of-consciousness topics.  While most have to do with America, history, and patriotism, Vowell also writes about Buffy the Vampire Slayer.  This makes for a completely novel experience while reading The Partly Cloudy Patriot; you never know where you will end up next, and it makes for a fun ride.

Just as in her other books, Vowell doesn’t hide her political leanings or personal opinions in The Partly Cloudy Patriot.  This makes the book that much funnier, as she unleashes her biting, yet witty social commentary.  Vowell is hilarious as she rails on about Tom Cruise and presidential libraries, injecting fascinating pieces of history while simultaneously entertaining the reader thoroughly.  That being said, if you’re conservative politically (or supported George W. Bush), I’d shy away from not just this book, but all of Vowell’s works.

I listened to The Partly Cloudy Patriot on audio, and it ran just over 5 hours and was unabridged.  Sarah Vowell does her own narration (along with a surprisingly star-studded cast, including Stephen Colbert and Conan O’Brien), and she is simply marvelous.  I have maintained that audio is the best method through which to consume Vowell’s works, and that holds true for this book as well.  While her voice does take a bit of getting used to at the beginning, the sarcasm and wit that comes through in her voice is priceless.

Having finished The Partly Cloudy Patriot, I have read all of Vowell’s backlist available on audio, and it makes me sad.  She is so funny and so very talented, I absolutely love listening to her audiobooks and having the chance to learn something while laughing out loud.  Though her newer books haven’t been quite as entertaining as The Partly Cloudy Patriot and Assassination Vacation, I still look forward to seeing what subject she tackles next.

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Title: Blind Submission
Author: Debra Ginsberg
ISBN: 9780307346384
Pages: 352
Release Date: September 25, 2007
Publisher: Three Rivers Press
Genre: Chick Lit
Source: Personal Copy
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

Angel Robinson is in a bind.  The beloved bookstore where she works as a bookseller is closing, leaving her without a job.  But when Angel’s boyfriend hands her an ad for a publicity assistant to the acclaimed literary agent Lucy Fiamma, she decides to give it a try.  She finds a horrible working environment, completely frazzled atmosphere, and a boss that is difficult-beyond-words, but she can’t help but love her job.  That is, until Angel receives a strange anonymous submission that catches her eye, one whose story seems to mirror her life to a frightening degree.

Review:

Blind Submission is a book written for readers, especially those who have worked or want to work in the publishing industry.  It’s a fun and smart satire about working in a literary agency, with Alice as the poor assistant that is dumped on by the (more than slightly) crazy Lucy Fiamma.  While I did love the literary aspects of this novel, the relationship between Lucy and Alice, as well as Lucy’s antics, were a little too-Devil Wears Prada for me. 

Ginsberg’s writing is sharp and completely on point.  Additionally, she develops Alice well, which is good because Alice is basically the only sympathetic character in the book.  Alice is witty and it’s entertaining to read her notes on the manuscripts she receives (excerpts of which are included in the novel).  It shows (rather than tells) how good Alice is at analyzing manuscripts, as well as how perceptive of a reader she is.

The added twist of the mysterious submission is a great touch, as it gives Alice something to focus on other than her crumbling life.  Blind Submission isn’t really a mystery overall, but the question of who the anonymous author of the manuscript is will keep the reader engaged in the story.  It’s understandable why Alice is so freaked out by the story; after all, it is a thinly fictionalized version of her own life, complete with intimate details about her.

If you’re looking for a quick and light read that will keep you entertained, Blind Submission is a great choice.  It’s not a meaty read that you can dissect, but it’s fun, and I’m sure anyone who’s actually worked in a literary agency will be highly amused by it. 

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Title: Boozehound: On the Trail of the Rare, the Obscure, and the Overrated in Spirits
Author: Jason Wilson
ISBN: 9781580082884
Pages: 240
Release Date: September 21, 2010
Publisher: Ten Speed Press
Genre: Non-Fiction, Essays
Source: Amazon Vine
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

In this search for the rare and obscure in liquor, Jason Wilson tries to raise awareness about spirits.  He travels near and far, commenting on the spirit culture (or lack thereof) in America.

Review:

Jason Wilson’s book has just one goal: to raise the awareness of liquors and spirits in the United States.  In a culture that seems to worship at the altar of the Cosmopolitan and Appletini, Wilson’s message is simple: there is something better out there.  As an avid fan of craft beer, I don’t usually have much time or an inclination to drink too many cocktails, but I’m always interested in reading about culture, so I thought this book might be interesting.

Boozehound is many things in one: a travelogue, a lesson, a social commentary, and a a feast for the senses.  Wilson writes in an engaging manner as he travels around the world seeking out rare spirits.  Along the way, he tells the reader the history and evolution of the particular liquor.  It’s a great structure, and serves to keep the reader entertained while also teaching them something.  At the end of each chapter, the book also has drink recipes.  They certainly look interesting, and I enjoyed browsing through them, but I highly doubt I will ever make any of them.  The ingredients are often obscure, and I don’t fancy spending that much money on making a cocktail.

Wilson doesn’t hide his disdain for certain fads in the liquor market.  The one he focuses on the most in Boozehound is that of flavored vodkas.  I found myself chuckling out loud as he railed on against this phenomenon.  He makes some very good points about their ridiculousness (and about vodka in general).  It’s clear Wilson seeks out genuine spirits with a history behind them, so it’s very interesting to see what he chooses and why.

Though I’m not a big cocktail drinker (and won’t be one, even after reading this book), I did enjoy Boozehound.  It’s always interesting to read about the nuances of a different culture, and I enjoyed Wilson’s enthusiasm for spirits.  If you have a liquor lover in your life, this book would make an excellent gift.

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The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar deals with many timely topics, some of which I haven’t covered in our discussions so far.  This is a catch-all post to discuss those issues, as well as whatever might be lingering on your mind about the book.  Feel free to answer any, or all, of the questions in the comments, or share your own thoughts on things we haven’t talked about.

1. Kavita is a lesbian, but has hidden her sexual identity from those closest to her because her country’s views on homosexuality are harsh.  Why does Kavita believe her personal struggle is less important than the socialist causes she used to protest for?
2. Iqbal is perhaps the most complicated character in the book.  It’s true he’s been through horrors, but do they justify what he’s done to the women in his life?  What were your feelings on him?
3. “In the end, what matters is what remains.”  This is a lingering theme in the book - what does it mean to you?
4. Why did Thrity Umrigar choose to end the book where she did - on the flight to see Armaiti, rather than her death?  Did Umrigar want to keep their friendship alive for the reader, through the end of the book and beyond?

Please feel free to answer any or all of these questions in your comments, as well as expound on your thoughts about the book as a whole.  If you’re new to this readalong and would like more information or to see the rest of the discussion posts, please visit my landing page for The World We Found discussion.

Thanks for participating, and I hope you’ve enjoyed yourselves!

Title: If Jack’s In Love
Author: Stephen Wetta
ISBN: 9780399157523
Pages: 368
Release Date: September 29, 2011
Publisher: Putnam/Amy Einhorn Books
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

The year is 1967 and Jack Witcher is twelve years old.  His family is the one in the neighborhood that everyone gossips about and avoids.  His father is an alcoholic who can’t seem to hold a job, while Jack’s brother, Stan, is a bully with no conscience.  Jack is in love with Myra, but she won’t acknowledge him, and it doesn’t help that Stan goes after Myra’s brother at every turn.  Jack makes friends with Mr. Gladstein, the Jewish man that owns the jewelry shop, and they work together to win Myra’s heart for Jack.

Review:s

If Jack’s in Love is a portrait of small town American in 1967.  Jack enjoys freedoms that most children today only dream of - he spends time on his own, unsupervised, away from home.  He plays in the woods behind his house, dreaming about the girl he loves.  It seems like such a simple, idealistic existence, that is, until the reader considers Jack’s family.  Jack’s father and brother are very alike.  They are terrifying, and Jack lives in fear of upsetting or disappointing them.  They throw a wrench into Jack’s desires and underline his fears.

Wetta captures Jack beautifully in If Jack’s in Love.  His angst, his confusion at being on the cusp of manhood - he is a pre-teen portrayed incredibly realistically.  He is genuine, and his words come from the heart.  Readers will fall in love with Jack, and hope that he will find some happiness; their hearts will ache for him as he endures taunts at the hands of his father and brother.  Jack yearns for a different life, one in which he and Myra can be openly in love; it seems like such a simple thing, yet for Jack, it is immensely complicated.

This is a novel that really defies traditional genres.  It’s about a twelve-year-old, yet in no way is this a middle grade novel, aimed at younger readers.  Though Jack is still a child, the depth and character in his voice will appeal to adults.  If Jack’s in Love has been billed as a murder mystery, but even that doesn’t really truly characterize this complicated novel.  That does play into the book, yes, but it’s not in any way what the book is about.  At its core, this book is about Jack’s coming of age, his realizations about what adulthood really means.

This was a charming and funny novel that captures small town life perfectly.  Every neighborhood had a family like the Witchers, and everyone will see something of themselves in Jack.  It’s a novel with broad appeal and is thoroughly enjoyable.  I look forward to seeing what Stephen Wetta does next.

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Title: Affairs of Steak
Author: Julie Hyzy
ISBN: 9780425245835
Pages: 304
Release Date: January 3, 2012
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Source: Publicist
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

White House Chef Ollie Paras is back, and this time, her life is in danger.  After discovering the body of the First Lady’s Chief of Staff, Ollie finds herself once again in the middle of a murder investigation.  To make things worse, Peter Sargeant, the White House Sensitivity Director with whom Ollie does not see eye to eye, was with her when she discovered the body, and now they must work together to figure out who wants them dead and why.

Review:

In the fifth installment of the White House Chef mysteries (after Buffalo West Wing), Ollie Paras is back and dealing with a whole new set of challenges.  The new murder has thrown Ollie for a loop, and while she does do her best to stay out of it, she can’t help but exercise her natural curiosity and ask questions of those around her.  The involvement of Sargeant makes the matter even more complicated.  He’s done nothing but make Ollie’s life at the White House miserable, yet she goes out of her way to help him more than once.  It shows her integrity, and I’m really looking forward to seeing if a friendship might develop between these two in future installments.

Ollie is a great character, as ever, and Hyzy manages to develop her even more in Affairs of Steak.  This is quite a feat, considering this is the fifth book in the series.  Her love life begins to move in a new (though not unexpected) direction.  The reader is allowed more into Ollie’s personal life, as the bulk of the novel takes place outside Ollie’s White House kitchen.  This may disappoint some readers, as it doesn’t involve nearly as much food as previous books in the series, but I found this change refreshing.  It’s important to keep series novels fresh and differentiate them from one another, and Julie Hyzy does that very well in her White House Chef series.

A gripping plot, a wonderful main character, and a glorious setting - what more could a reader want from a novel?  This entire series is a delight, and if you haven’t given it a chance, I highly recommend you pick up the first book, State of the Onion.  If you’re a fan of the series, don’t hesitate to pick up Affairs of Steak; you’ll be thrilled to find it holds its own against the rest of the books in the series.

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Waterfall at Milford Sound, New Zealand

Welcome to the readalong and book club discussion of The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar.  Today we are discussing the themes of money and its relationship to power and respect, as presented in the novel as a whole. 

In The World We Found, the theme of money and its relationship to power and respect seems omnipresent.  While Laleh and Adish are wealthy, Iqbal and Nishta are poor.  Iqbal firmly believes that money buys respect, and he is treated badly because he has little.

1. Sometimes Iqbal believes he is treated badly because he’s Muslim; at other times, he blames his lack of money.  Is he right on either of these accounts, or both?
2. Armaiti tells Laleh that she’s leaving India because she’s tired of feeling guilty when she spends money.  Adish thinks Laleh is ashamed by her wealthy lifestyle.  Why is this the case?
3. Money didn’t matter when this group was in college, yet now it is so important.  Why does Iqbal say “he had been deluded by all the bullshit talk of comradeship and equality”?  Is that true, or was it something more?
4. Iqbal insults Armaiti for having married a rich American, saying that he won’t mourn her passing.  Why does Armaiti’s cancer matter less to Iqbal than Umar, who is a post office worker and has lung cancer?  Why does he disdain those who have money, yet seem jealous of Adish’s good fortunes?
5. Iqbal thinks money solves all problems, and in the end, it looks as though he’s right.  The policemen listen to Adish because he has money and the power to do something for them and Iqbal doesn’t.  What does it cost Adish to take advantage of this, and what does it do to Iqbal? In the end, Adish thinks he can make amends by offering Iqbal a job.  What does this say about Adish?  Was Iqbal right all along?

Please feel free to answer any or all of these questions in your comments, as well as expound on your thoughts about money in the book.  If you’re new to this readalong and would like more information or to see the rest of the discussion posts, please visit my landing page for The World We Found discussion.  Please be sure to check back on Thursday, when we’ll wrap up our discussion.

Title: Sarah’s Key
Author: Tatiana de Rosnay
ISBN: 9780312370848
Pages: 320
Release Date: September 30, 2009 
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Source: SheKnows Book Club
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Summary:

Julia Jarmond is an American journalist living in Paris with her husband and daughter.  When she is given an assignment to write about the 60th anniversary of the French roundup of the Jews, she is shocked that she’s never heard of this event.  As she investigates the atrocities committed by the French police, she discovers a personal connection (through her husband’s family) to one of the Jewish children.  Despite her in-laws’ protestations, Julia becomes to determined to understand what happened to this little girl, Sarah.

Review:

Sarah’s Key is a novel that most people are familiar with.  It caused a sensation when it was published, and even has been turned into a movie.  Despite many glowing reviews, I never had the urge to pick it up for some reason.  Perhaps it was a fear of what high expectations have done to so many books I have read, but I avoided the novel.  But eventually I decided that I needed to read this book that so many people were raving about, and after finishing it, I understand their sentiments.

Julia is an appealing woman.  She’s a wife and mother, devoted to her daughter, but not able to understand the rift that exists with her husband.  In some ways, her devotion to her work is her way of avoiding the problems that she doesn’t want to face in her marriage.  However, as Julia begins to dig deeper into this tragic period in history, a subject that the French try to avoid, she is singularly driven to understand. 

Guilt plays a large role in Sarah’s Key.  It’s part of what motivates Julia, her personal guilt and shame that she had no idea this horrible crime against humanity had occurred.  Everyone is aware of the Nazi treatment of the Jews, but to know that her beloved France was complicit, had done their own roundup, murdering women and children - it’s a difficult thing to swallow, and even moreso to not have been aware of it before her assignment.  De Rosnay handles this question well, as Julia’s shame will likely mirror that of the reader, as they explore this difficult topic.

The story of Sarah’s Key is told in two different narratives, the voice of Julia and that of Sarah.  De Rosnay writes Sarah convincingly, portraying a child who is forced to grow up in a matter of weeks.  The transformation in Sarah’s voice, from an innocent child to a hard-edged adult-before-her-time is heartbreaking.  What this little girl is forced to endure is difficult, and De Rosnay writes it very well.  Sarah’s voice works well alternating with Julia’s, though it becomes Julia’s job to tell Sarah’s story towards the end of the book.  While Julia’s questions about her marriage and search for an identity are interesting, her narrative pales in comparison to the gravity of Sarah’s story.

Sarah’s Key is an excellent novel with many thought provoking questions.  Despite the difficult subject matter, it is easy to read.  Readers will get lost in the story as they race to discover what happened to Sarah.  It’s a well thought out and beautifully told story, and I’m glad I finally gave it a chance.

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Title: A Red Herring Without Mustard
Author: Alan Bradley
ISBN: 9780385342322
Pages: 416
Release Date: February 8, 2011
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Genre: Mystery
Source: Curled Up with a Good Book
Rating:4  out of 5

Summary:

In this third installment of the Flavia de Luce series, the eleven-year-old chemist-turned-amateur sleuth is back again in all her glory.  This time, Flavia has her fortune told by a Gypsy woman, then invites the woman to park her caravan near Buckshaw, the crumbling de Luce family home.  When Flavia returns to check on the gypsy, she finds her attacked and unconscious, almost dead, which starts Flavia on another quest to solve a mystery.

Review:

Flavia de Luce is a heroine who engenders strong opinions.  Those who enjoy these books absolutely adore the resolute and crafty eleven-year-old.  They appreciate her ingenuity and utter lack of fear in delving into the deepest and darkest mysteries.  But those that don’t find her charming really can’t stand her.  They find her overly precocious and unbelievable, and don’t find Bradley’s books appealing.  I am in the former camp.  I love Flavia and look forward to her adventures, and therefore was excited to read A Red Herring Without Mustard.

In this novel, Flavia is as meddlesome as ever.  She’s witty and irrepressible, vowing to get to the bottom of the mystery and finding herself embroiled in the middle of it every step of the way.  Her relationship with her sisters continues to be adversarial, and it would be nice in future books if Flavia worked towards détente.  They can only torture one another for so long before that begins to grate, and happily, Flavia seems to have taken the first steps towards that in A Red Herring Without Mustard.  Flavia is a delight to read about, and, as always, the secondary cast of characters is well developed and happily eccentric.

The plot of A Red Herring Without Mustard ties in many different threads from smaller storylines through the novel.  The central mystery is the attack on the gypsy woman, but this leads Flavia places she never would have imagined.  From exploring the death of an infant years before to discovering the inner workings of a cult and finding out whether it has a presence in her town of Bishop’s Lacey, Bradley keeps Flavia extremely busy in this novel.  The storyline of Flavia’s father’s increasing desperation in order to keep his family in their home, while subtle, is exceptionally well done.  All in all, the novel keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end with its intricate plot.

These are not novels you necessarily need to read in order.  All have the same basic premise and there are no spoilers or overarching mysteries from one book to another.  It would be quite easy to start with A Red Herring Without Mustard, though this has a more complex plot than the previous two novels.  If you haven’t given Flavia a try yet, pick up one of these books at your earliest convenience.  You’ll discover your opinion on her quickly, and I hope you find yourself as charmed by Flavia de Luce as I am.

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Good morning everyone! Today, I am continuing a weekend of relaxation.  For the past month and a half, things have been slightly insane.  I’ve been in constant catch-up mode, continuously falling behind because of the holidays, travel, and other craziness.  I’m really glad to have a quiet few weeks up ahead, as I need some time to read and de-stress.  Reading is how I decompress, so when I don’t have time to do it, I have trouble relaxing!

For those of you who have been overwhelmed by the number of posts on my blog for the last two weeks, I have to apologize.  If you haven’t been overwhelmed, I’m impressed because I certainly have been!  There’s been a lot going on, and while I love it, this will be the last week of the Thrity Umrigar discussion, so please hang in there if you’re displeased.

I have a new writing gig at the SheKnows Book Lounge, where I have a few weekly and monthly columns, so I will be linking to those every Sunday.  For the SheKnows Red Hot Book of the Week, I wrote about MWF Seeking BFF by Rachel Bertsche.  For some must-reads, I picked Ten Beach Road by Wendy Wax, Across the Universe by Beth Revis, and Miracle Beach by Erin Celello.  I will also be participating in the SheKnows Book Club - this month’s read is Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay.

As you’ve probably see, it was pretty busy here on the blog this week.  We discussed Religion and Repression and Control from The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar.  I also had a new New Zealand picture up for Wordless Wednesday.  Last week, I posted my Top Books of 2011 (Non-Fiction) list. I do intend to do the fiction list eventually, I just haven’t gotten there quite yet!

Reviews posted this week:

Unsaid - Neil Abramson	The Thorn and the Blossom - Theodora Goss
The Poison Tree - Erin Kelly	A Clash of Kings - George R.R. Martin
A Million Suns - Beth Revis	Deeper Than the Dead - Tami Hoag
Invictus - John Carlin

Title: Invictus: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation
Author: John Carlin
ISBN: 9780143117155
Pages: 288
Release Date: November 18, 2009
Publisher: Penguin
Genre: Non-Fiction, History
Source: Personal Copy
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Summary:

Nelson Mandela is a living legend, the man who is credited with shepherding South Africa through its difficult transition from apartheid to democracy.  Many say that the only reason the country did not erupt into a bloody and devastating civil war is because of Mandela’s leadership.  In Invictus, John Carlin examines the turbulent period in South African history through the prism of rugby.

Review:

Invictus, starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon, has quickly become one of my favorite movies, so when I found out it was based on a book, I was curious.  After all, it’s easy to tell that the movie’s story has been simplified in order to be understood, so I wanted to know what really happened during the 1995 World Cup.  Did Mandela actually play that big of a role?  I am also ashamedly not well versed in recent South African history, so I was curious about the larger politics surrounding the event.  Just how bad were race relations at the time?

John Carlin answered all my questions and more in his book Invictus: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation (originally published as Playing the Enemy).  What both surprised and delighted me about this book was that it was about so much more than the Rugby World Cup.  While that subject takes up the bulk of the movie, it doesn’t even come into play until the last fourth of Carlin’s book.  Instead, Carlin briefs the reader on Mandela’s life and helps the reader understand how he became such an integral player in South African politics.  The book begins with Mandela’s release from prison and shows how Mandela managed to work his way up to guiding and leading his country.

Carlin also puts a human face on Nelson Mandela.  Mandela is such an extraordinary person, capable of forgiveness and understanding beyond most bounds.  It’s the reason he was able to keep the peace, that he didn’t try to punish or exact revenge.  He demonstrated amazing compassion, as well as an exceptional shrewdness for the game of politics.  However, he is just a man, and Carlin makes sure the reader knows this.  Carlin doesn’t try to deify Mandela; he just shows what an amazing feat he accomplished.

I was amazed at how engaging Invictus was.  It’s fast paced and easy to read, unlike most history books.  Carlin has a great writing style and he keeps the tension and narrative suspense heightened through the story.  Even though you know what is eventually going to happen, Carlin makes sure you are hooked from beginning to end.  This is a great little primer on recent South African history; whether you know the country intimately or, like me, are sad to say you know little about it beyond Mandela and apartheid, this is a book I highly recommend.

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Title: Deeper Than the Dead
Author: Tami Hoag
ISBN: 9780525951308
Pages: 432
Release Date: December 29, 2009
Publisher: Dutton
Genre: Crime Fiction
Source: Personal Copy
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

It’s 1984 in California, and when four children come across the body of a woman in the woods, the community is shocked.  Their teacher, Anne Navarre, takes it upon herself to ensure that the children suffer no lasting damage from the encounter.  Vince Leone, an FBI agent with a trauma in his recent past, comes to town in order to help with the investigation.

Review:

Deeper Than the Dead is a grisly crime fiction novel with a twist - because it takes place in 1984, the authorities don’t have the vast technological resources of our contemporary crime labs.  DNA profiling? Fingerprint databases?  These weren’t available in 1984, and as a result, this is a completely different kind of investigation.  Vince Leone must rely on his instincts and the untested art of criminal profiling to catch this twisted killer.

Anne Navarre is a great character, especially because it is clear how much she cares for her students.  She knows that Dennis is a school bully, and that he is the reason the children came upon the body - he was chasing young Tommy and Wendy through the woods.  However, this does not stifle her compassion for Dennis.  She realizes that he likely has a difficult home life, and even after his actions turn to the despicable, she wants nothing more than to help him.  She refuses to give up, even when those around her tell her it’s too late for Dennis.

The mystery in Deeper Than the Dead is well-written and takes the reader on many twists and turns.  By the end of the book, it’s pretty clear who the murderer is, and though it takes the characters more time than the reader to figure that out, it never becomes frustrating.  The descriptions are definitely a bit gruesome, so if you shy away from that in your reading, I’d pass on this book, or at least plan on skimming those sections.

This is a great start to a new series.  The well developed character and unique time period set it apart from similar offerings.  If you’re looking for an easy and engaging read after a long day at work, this is a perfect novel to pick up.

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Title: A Million Suns
Author: Beth Revis
ISBN: 9781595143983
Pages: 400
Release Date: January 10, 2012
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Teen/YA, Science Fiction, Dystopian
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4 out of 5

This review may contain spoilers for the first book in this series, Across the Universe.

Summary:

After the horrible events that led to the death of Eldest and the incapacitation of Orion, Elder has now assumed leadership of the Godspeed.  But since taking the inhabitants of the ship off the drug that has kept them obedient, Elder’s leadership position is in jeopardy.  What’s more, Amy is still having trouble fitting in aboard Godspeed, and her situation has become dangerous with the growing unrest.  When Elder and Amy discover that there are yet more secrets to uncover about the Godspeed, her mission, and the “Plague”, they race to find this knowledge before it’s too late.

Review:

A Million Suns is a book that left me torn.  The first half of it is frustrating, to say the least.  Amy continued to drive me batty, as she did in Across the Universe, but this time, Elder joined in as well.  I had sympathy for him - he was trying to do the right thing by his people and to be a true leader - yet he shows his very tender age through his actions.  He is incredibly naïve when it comes to leadership; though he has given the Godspeed’s inhabitants the gift of choice by taking them off Phydus, he still expects to automatically be their leader.  He can’t understand why some of them aren’t happy with the situation.  Again and again, he makes the wrong decisions, and while he is in a very difficult position, it’s clear he has no idea what he’s doing.

What’s more, one of my favorite things about Across the Universe - the fact that the romantic storyline was toned down - isn’t the case in A Million Suns.  Elder struggles with his feelings for Amy while also trying to lead the ship.  While I won’t say it’s annoying (thankfully, Revis still handles it well) it does turn up the teen angst quotient on the novel.

That being said, I still enjoyed A Million Suns overall.  Why?  Because, about halfway through the book, the plot takes a huge leap with a revelation about the Godspeed, and it sprints towards the explosive and surprising ending.  I was breathlessly reading through the twists and turns Revis threw at me, unable to predict where she would go next.  The ending of the novel was not something I could have foreseen in a million years, and I absolutely loved that it ended up in a place so different than where it started.  What’s more, Elder really comes into his own as a leader in the second half of the novel, and makes some incredibly difficult, but very mature, choices.

Despite my initial misgivings about A Million Suns, I’m really happy I gave it a chance and didn’t just put it down out of frustration.  Amy continues to be a source of annoyance, especially towards the end of the novel, but I really appreciate how the character of Elder has evolved.  Additionally, Revis’ plot is really great, and I love the way she isn’t afraid to take risks with the storyline.  She’s also a wonderful worldbuilder.  While A Million Suns likely won’t be my favorite installment in this trilogy, I am still eagerly anticipating the final novel.

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Welcome to the readalong and book club discussion of The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar.  Today we are discussing the themes of repression and control, as presented in chapters 1 through 18 (pp. 1-192) of the novel.  If you have insights to share, but they are based on events that occur later in the book, please note that as the beginning of your comment by typing SPOILER so those who haven’t read on will know to skip your comment. 

Control is a constant thread that runs through The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar.  Iqbal exerts a frightening level control over Nishta, to the point where he has denied her use of her given name.  Richard and Diane try to control Armaiti’s movements during her sickness, while Adish tries (and fails) to control Laleh.

1. Iqbal claims that “men and women cannot be partners” and scolds Nishta for not reading the Koran - he claims that if she had, she would have known that.  Does Iqbal control Nishta because of how he interprets his religion, or is religion an excuse to control Nishta?
2. Iqbal believes that, by controlling Nishta, he protects her.  He justifies his control of her in his mind by listing what he has sacrificed on her behalf because she is Hindu.  Why doesn’t Iqbal consider what Nishta has sacrificed for him?
3. Armaiti thinks that Richard and Diane are trying to control her with regards to her illness, watching what she eats and when she sleeps, yet they do this out of love for her.  Is she wrong to be upset, to want to live (and die) on her own terms?  Should she be more understanding?
4. Nishta discusses how she felt claustrophobic the first time she put on a burkha, yet Iqbal dismissed her concerns.  Why does he care so little for her opinion?  Why does Nishta eventually give in to his demands?
5. Why didn’t Nishta try harder to get in touch with Laleh and Kavita after Iqbal took away her phone?  Is her submissiveness characteristic of an abused woman?

Please feel free to answer any or all of these questions in your comments, as well as expound on your thoughts about control.  If you’re new to this readalong and would like more information or to see the rest of the discussion posts, please visit my landing page for The World We Found discussion.  Please be sure to check back on Tuesday, when we’ll be discussing the relationship between money and power in the entire book.

Title: A Clash of Kings
Author: George R.R. Martin
ISBN: 9780553579901
Pages: 1040
Release Date: September 5, 2000
Publisher: Bantam
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Personal Copy
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Warning: This review may contain spoilers for the first book in the series, A Game of Thrones

Summary:

War has come to the land of Westeros, and all sides are gearing up for the inevitable conflict.  In Winterfell, Robb Stark has taken up his father’s seat and declared his realm independent of the Iron Throne.  Renly and Stannis Baratheon, brothers of the late king, fight amongst themselves for the right to call themselves Robert’s heir.  And the Lannisters, from the duplicitous Cersei to the imprisoned Jamie to the shrewd Tyrion, plot as ever to keep their hold on the Seven Kingdoms.

Review:

A Game of Thrones was a book about the breaking of the delicate peace that once existed within the Seven Kingdoms, one which hinged on Robert Baratheon and Eddard Stark.  Now, in A Clash of Kings, these two men are dead and there are countless claimants to the Iron Throne.  Yet, there is a sense that the real war has not come yet; this book is only the beginning, gearing up for an endless, bloody conflict where there can be no compromises.  Martin writes his atmosphere well.  Things are tense and close, and no one knows who can be trusted.

Once again, the characters are expertly drawn in A Clash of Kings.  Martin revisits old favorites, but also introduces some entirely new players.  The cast of characters is almost mindboggling, to the point there are pages and pages at the end of the book detailing the different houses present in the Seven Kingdoms.  Martin’s strength, though, is making each person in his novel distinct, even the minor characters.  These seem like real people, leaping off the page. 

One surprising thing about A Clash of Kings is Martin’s ability to write complex and layered characters.  I pointed out in my review of A Game of Thrones that there is no real “good” and “bad” in these books in terms of characters, and that trend continues into this book.  The people whose side you are rooting for don’t behave quite as well as you’d like them to.  On the other hand, Tyrion Lannister, a character the reader really would be rooting against had anyone else written this story, is a hero of the novel.  He’s smart, cunning, shrewd, and shows an amazing amount of sense.  At times, I would forget that I was actually against his side winning because I adored his character so much. 

The plot of A Clash of Kings is complicated and intricate, but it isn’t difficult to keep up with.  I really appreciate how Martin takes risks with his characters and storyline.  There were twists I never saw coming, which makes for an exciting read.  Something has to keep a reader interested for 1000 pages, and Martin has managed to capture whatever that is.  I am really in awe of this series, at its breadth and depth, and it’s good to know that the second book lost none of the magic of the first.

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Title: The Poison Tree
Author: Erin Kelly
ISBN: 9780670022403
Pages: 336
Release Date: January 6, 2011
Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Summary:

As Karen is trying to start a new life with Rex Capel, her former lover who has been in prison for nine years, she reminisces upon the summer that brought them together.  Karen first met Rex’s sister Biba in college and fell in with the pair, eventually moving into their crumbling house.  But Rex and Biba have secrets of their own, and as the summer winds on, it leads up to the fateful events that landed Rex in prison.

Review:

Erin Kelly’s debut novel is a suspenseful psychological thriller centering on the character of Karen Clarke.  From the beginning, the reader knows that Karen is picking up Rex from prison.  She seems like a sensible woman, so why is she still with this man, an ex-convict?  Why didn’t she start a new life?  While the younger Karen is naïve, the older Karen has seen too much of the world.  Kelly develops her character beautifully; while the two share many traits and a good personality, it’s clear that Karen has grown up quite a bit. 

The Poison Tree is a novel told in two different time periods: the present day and that summer that changed everything.  Kelly handles the time jumps very well.  She knows how to build suspense and takes the reader on a wild ride through her novel.  From the beginning, it’s clear that events in the past are leading up to something horrible, but Kelly keeps the reader guessing as to what those occurrences might be.

Kelly also creates amazing atmosphere in The Poison Tree.  As the walls of the Capel’s house are crumbling and decaying, so too is Karen’s idealism during that summer.  The state of the house is a perfect metaphor for what is happening to Karen.  At the beginning of the novel, when Karen first meets Biba and Rex, she doesn’t really notice the shape the house is in, as she’s swept up by their charm and bohemian lifestyle.  But as secrets begin to emerge and Karen sees things for how they really are, she begins to notice the poor state of the house more, as her faith in her lover and best friend crumbles along with their home.

From amazingly written characters (book club members will have a field day dissecting Biba, who is completely destructive) to a gripping plot, The Poison Tree is a novel that fans of psychological suspense thrillers should not miss.  Kelly’s second novel is releasing soon, and after reading this one, I can’t wait to get to it.

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Harbor in Wellington, New Zealand

Welcome to the readalong and book club discussion of The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar.  Today we are discussing religion, as presented in chapters 1 through 18 (pp. 1-192) of the novel.  If you have insights to share, but they are based on events that occur later in the book, please note that as the beginning of your comment by typing SPOILER so those who haven’t read on will know to skip your comment. 

Religion is a very important theme that runs through The World We Found.  Laleh and Adish are Parsi, while Kavita and Armaiti are Hindu by heritage, though they don’t necessarily practice the religion.  Iqbal is Muslim and Nishta, now Zola, converted to Islam for Iqbal. 

1. Armaiti sees religion as a beast to be tamed, rather than something to take comfort in.  Why does she think this?  Have her views become more entrenched now that she is dying?
2. Adish tells Iqbal he sounds like a fanatic during their discussion.  Iqbal comments that Adish wears the sadra, “the thin muslin-cloth undergarment that Adish wore as a sign of his Parsi faith,” and asks why only Muslims are considered fanatics for being devout.  Is Iqbal correct in his accusations?
3. Iqbal was willing to convert to Hinduism when he wanted to marry Nishta, yet she is the one that converted to Islam.  Why?
4. There is no question that Iqbal suffered during the Hindu-Muslim riots in 1993.  Has he become as prejudiced against Hindus as he thinks they are against him?  Does he blame Nishta for what some of her people have done, including what happened to Mumtaz?
5. Iqbal seems crippled by the weight of his burdens, but are some of them of his own making?  At one point, he admits that he is developing a persecution complex.  Is this understandable, knowing some of what he’s been through?

Please feel free to answer any or all of these questions in your comments, as well as expound on your thoughts on the way religion is presented in the book.  If you’re new to this readalong and would like more information or to see the rest of the discussion posts, please visit my landing page for The World We Found discussion.  Please be sure to check back on Thursday, when we’ll be discussing the theme of control in the first eighteen chapters of the book.

Title: The Thorn and the Blossom: A Two-Sided Love Story
Author: Theodora Goss
ISBN: 9781594745515
Pages: 82
Release Date: January 17, 2012
Publisher: Quirk Books
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

Evelyn Morgan is visiting Cornwall when she meets Brendan Thorne in a small village bookstore.  They immediately forge a connection that spans many years and different continents in this unexpected love story.

Review:

The Thorn and the Blossom is an incredibly unique book - it’s actually a two-sided novel.  It comes in a beautiful case, and when you slip it out, it has a front and back cover like any other book.  However, the binding is what makes this book so different.  It’s an accordion format, with Evelyn’s story printed on one side and Brendan’s printed on the other.  Readers can choose whose tale to start with, as each narrative is a version of the same story.  I love thoughtfully constructed books, so this was a real treat for me.  Admittedly the book isn’t the easiest to hold, but it’s not a long read, so it works well.

The plot of The Thorn and the Blossom is a bit thin, but it was a treat for me.  Evelyn and Brendan are both medieval scholars studying The Book of the Green Knight, a variation on Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, which I recently read.  I loved this perfect timing.  While it’s not necessary to be familiar with the Green Knight legend prior to reading this book, it gives the book an added depth and dimension for those who are.  It’s a short book, so it will definitely keep your attention, but an intricate, plot-driven read it is not.  Instead, it’s a simple and sweet novel.

Overall, The Thorn and the Blossom was a real treat, something different than the traditional books one usually reads.  It’s not a book I’d choose to read electronically, as the charm of the book is in its unique construction.  Without that, I think readers would be left wanting.  With it, it’s a great choice for a gift for the book lover in your life.

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Title: Unsaid
Author: Neil Abramson
ISBN: 9781599954103
Pages: 368
Release Date: August 4, 2011
Publisher: Center Street
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Summary:

Though Helena has died, she is finding trouble letting go of the world she knew so well.  As a veterinarian, she knew and loved many animals, but she can’t help but feel that her life was completely meaningless.  As Helena follows her bereft husband, David, he must learn to live without his beloved wife, struggling with the legacy she left behind.

Review:

Though I’m not necessarily an animal person (I do love dogs, but also am not sure I want the responsibility of owning one right now), Unsaid was a book that appealed to me immediately.  I first heard about it at the SIBA (Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance) Conference in 2011, when Abramson was on a panel.  He mentioned that he wrote Unsaid for his wife, who is a veterinarian.  She is haunted by the thought that, when she passes, she will have to face all the animals she kept alive too long because of a family’s need for them as well as the animals she put down too quickly.  There was not a dry eye in the room as Abramson was speaking, and it convinced me I had to read this novel.

Unsaid is an impressive debut novel.  The book revolves around David; his sense of grief and loss is palpable throughout the novel.  His sadness at his wife’s death permeates the entire book.  It’s clear that he has no idea what to do with himself now that Helena is gone.  Abramson spends time patiently developing David’s character, making sure the reader gets to know him, and it pays off.  The reader really comes to care about David and wants him to find a place of happiness now that Helena is gone. 

The entire book is really a tribute to the power of animals, and how wonderful sharing your life with an animal (or multiple animals) can be.  It’s here that I was afraid that Unsaid would be a bit cheesy or over-the-top, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.  Abramson beautifully displays the unconditional love of animals and how much it really can change a person.  Time and time again, I found myself holding back tears because of the real love displayed in this novel.  I can’t really describe it without sounding like a bit of a fool, but trust me, it is amazing.

Towards the end of Unsaid, the novel changes from a quiet, contemplative read to a courtroom drama.  I’ll admit, I didn’t love this transformation after it first happened, but as it progressed, I found myself engrossed in this new turn of events.  Abramson’s pacing is excellent and he doesn’t resort to the clichés of the genre.  It’s also gratifying to see how far David has come as a character in these scenes.

Unsaid was really a remarkable novel, and I feel like I’m not even scratching the surface with this review.  It’s difficult to do justice to its beauty and elegance.  It’s a simple book with a lovely message - whether animal or human, we have a responsibility to those in our lives whom we love.

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Title: MWF Seeking BFF: My Yearlong Search for a New Best Friend
Author: Rachel Bertsche
ISBN: 9780345524942
Pages: 384
Release Date: December 20, 2011
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Genre: Memoir, Non-Fiction
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Summary:

After moving to Chicago from New York, Rachel Bertsche has to face a difficult fact.  Though she’s thrilled to have “couple friends” with her husband, as well as work friends, she doesn’t have a best friend in the city.  Determined to put herself out there and make some new friends, Rachel plans a series of “friend dates” - one each week for a year - in order to expand her social circle and find a new BFF.

Review:

If you wanted to meet new people, how would you do it?  Would you ask friends to introduce you to their friends, or join a club or group?  Would you start going to church, or just strike up conversations with strangers at a coffee shop?  While some of these approaches may seem daunting, these types of endeavors are exactly what Rachel Bertsche pursues in her memoir MWF Seeking BFF.

What’s incredible about MWF Seeking BFF is that it’s a book almost every woman can relate to.  Even if you are surrounded by the best of friends now, there probably was a point in your life when you weren’t, when you felt alone and wanted new friends.  As a result, the subject matter is completely accessible and easy to sympathize with.  But even better, Bertsche’s writing style is very engaging.  Her prose is crisp and clear, and she writes with such a frank, self-deprecating sense of humor that readers will wish she was their BFF.

There are many different aspects to MWF Seeking BFF, and all of them are interesting.  Rachel’s approach to the whole project, friend-dating, is actually a great idea.  We go on dates to find spouses, why not for lifelong friends as well?  More than once, I marveled at how brave Bertsche was; from approaching complete strangers to following up on those “we should get together!” comments, she pursued every avenue open to her.  But what I loved was that she was honest about it all, admitting when she was embarrassed and making an effort not to appear to desperate.  The personal aspects of this story are incredibly appealing.

Bertsche also discusses the repercussions of her friend-dating, which were unexpected and intriguing.  The quest affects her life and marriage in ways she couldn’t have imagined prior to embarking on it.  Additionally, she tackles the stickier aspects of friendships - why, for example, so many women she met seemed to be looking for friends, yet they were afraid to admit it.  The memoir is full of interesting tidbits and information, and I appreciated that Bertsche tackled the subject from all angles, talking to professors, experts, and anyone else she could approach.

MWF Seeking BFF is a great memoir that most women will enjoy.  I especially recommend it to those in their late twenties and thirties who find themselves in the same situation that Rachel does.  I found Bertsche’s enthusiasm and willingness to put herself out there very inspiring, and as I definitely understand her situation (most of my best friends are a phone call, rather than a car ride, away), I will be thinking about her book for a long time to come.

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Title: Miracle Beach
Author: Erin Celello
ISBN: 9780451233820
Pages: 352
Release Date: August 2, 2011
Publisher: NAL
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

When her husband, Nash, dies in a horrible accident, Macy Allen is completely bereft.  What’s worse is that Nash’s difficult mother, Magda, blames Macy for his death.  Unable to deal with his wife’s bitterness any longer, Nash’s father Jack takes a trip out to visit Macy and to find some closure, and in the process, they discover secrets about Nash that he kept hidden during his life.

Review:

Miracle Beach is an atmospheric read set on Vancouver Island.  Celello takes her time building her setting and creating a close atmosphere for the characters to operate in.  The setting is incredibly important to the story; it represents Nash’s decision to move far from his parents for the woman he loved.  After Nash’s death, it’s a symbol of Jack’s desire for distance from his wife, and to be closer to his son in the best way he knows how.  The island is a place of peace and tranquility, but Macy finds no solace there anymore.  She must learn how to live life again, and Vancouver Island is a big part of that.

Macy and Magda are the best developed characters in the book, and they are so different, yet so alike.  Each is drowning in sorrow at Nash’s death.  Though Magda seems like a horrible person at the novel’s outset, it becomes clear that she is dealing with a lifetime full of resentment.  Though she never is truly likeable, she becomes easier to understand.  Macy, on the other hand, is likeable enough, but completely stuck.  Her despair threatens to consume her, and she finds no comfort in her horses as she used to.

The core of Miracle Beach is the emotions it exudes - grief, anger, sadness, despair.  Nash’s death has rocked everyone in the book.  As the novel progresses, these emotions change as the characters process Nash’s death and find ways to deal with it.  Celello’s prose is beautifully rendered, her descriptions lush and generous.  If you are in the mood to read a novel with amazing writing, look no further.

The plot of this novel leaves something to be desired.  Miracle Beach is a contemplative read and thus it moves very slowly, which isn’t a problem if you aren’t specifically looking for a fast paced read.  However, there is a twist in the middle of the novel that has been so overdone in women’s fiction; it was easy to see coming and made the book as a whole less satisfying.  If you can get past that, though, and are looking for a moody book with gorgeous prose, this is definitely a good choice.

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Title: The Whole Story of Half a Girl
Author: Veera Hiranandani
ISBN: 9780385741286
Pages: 224
Release Date: January 10, 2012
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Genre: Middle Grade, Cultural Fiction (South Asian)
Source: Publisher
Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:

Sonia Nadhamuni’s life is changing drastically as she enters the sixth grade.  Her father has lost his job and sunk into a depression, and her mother is working harder than ever to provide for her family.  Sonia no longer can attend the prestigious private school she has loved her whole life.  She is sent to a public school, leaving behind her friends and everything she knows, and she must find her place in this unfamiliar world.

Review:

In The Whole Story of Half a Girl, we are introduced to Sonia Nadhamuni, a girl who this she is a half, rather than a whole.  With an Indian father and a Jewish mother, Sonia feels like she is neither Indian, nor Jewish.  She struggles to find some sort of identity while also trying to fit in at her new school.  She wants to stay true to herself, but friends are also important to Sonia.  But how does she know whether she’s betraying who she is in order to fit in if Sonia doesn’t really know herself in the first place?  Veera Hiranandani portrays a confused and lost girl on the verge of adolescence, someone desperately seeking some sort of identity in the confused world she finds herself in.

Sonia is an endearing character, a well-written and fully realized young woman.  Hiranandani did an admirable job fleshing her out; she is realistically flawed.  While Sonia doesn’t always make the right choices, the reader can always understand why and sympathize with what she’s experiencing.  Her troubles at home also contribute to Sonia’s confusion; she doesn’t know how to handle what is going on around her.

The Whole Story of Half a Girl is funny, engaging, and has a memorable protagonist in Sonia.  The answers to her problems never come to her easily and are often realistically messy.  It’s gratifying to watch Sonia grow up over the course of the book and really see her find an identity, and even moreso for her to realize that it’s okay to be half.  Being half-Jewish and half-Indian might be confusing, but it’s something to embrace, and Hiranandani portrays that struggle for identity beautifully in her debut novel.

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Welcome to the readalong and book club discussion of The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar.  Today we are discussing the friendships between the book’s characters, as presented in chapters 1 through 9 (pp. 1-91) of the novel.  If you have insights to share, but they are based on events that occur later in the book, please note that as the beginning of your comment by typing SPOILER so those who haven’t read on will know to skip your comment.

The World We Found centers on four best friends from college - Laleh, Armaiti, Kavita, and Nishta - that have drifed apart over the years.  They have lived their own separate lives, yet in the wake of Armaiti’s illness, they are finding each other once again.

1. By the end of the book, the reader understands why these friends drifted apart.  But now, at one hundred pages in, what are your thoughts?  Why didn’t they keep in better touch?
2. Why is it so important to Armaiti to see these women, when she likely has many friends in America?
3. These women went through a lot together during the protests in India in the late 1970s.  More than once, they refer to each other as comrades.  How does their comradeship differ than friendship?
4. Kavita admits that she never told Armaiti about her feelings for her.  Why didn’t she express her love for Armaiti?  If Laleh and Nishta are her best friends, why doesn’t she trust them with information about her sexual orientation now?
5. Adish and Iqbal used to be close, yet their reunion doesn’t have the joy that the women’s does.  Why is Iqbal so annoyed to see Adish?

Please feel free to answer any or all of these questions in your comments, as well as expound on your thoughts about the characters and their friendships.  If you’re new to this readalong and would like more information or to see the rest of the discussion posts, please visit my landing page for The World We Found dicussion.  Please be sure to check back on Tuesday, when we’ll be discussing religion in the first eighteen chapters of the book.