Bibmomma’s Blog - Reflections of an early onset Parkinson’s patient.

Due to my eclectic choice of reading material, you will find some different book reviews on this part of the blog. 

BOOKS READ IN APRIL, 2008

♥♥♥♥♥The Monsters of Templeton by Lauren Groff (published 2008 by Hyperion)  This is Lauren Groff’s first novel, and it’s a richly woven tale of a town, its’ history, and the family that evolves from the historical events. The main character is a young woman who abandons her life dream of being an anthropologist - exactly at the time he first discovery is made in Alaska.  She escapes from her own fear of failure, a relationship that she knows is doomed, and runs home seeking safety and solace.  What she finds is the truth about her own ancestry and the truth about what she wants in life.  This book is perfect for a vacation or long trip.  I hope Lauren Groff continues to write novels rather than short stories.

♥♥♥♥ The Monster of Florence by Doublas Preston with Mario Spezi (published in 2008 by Grand Central)  This is one of the most outstanding books I read in many years. The authors tell the story from their perspective as crime reporters/crime authors.  The story revolves around the brutal murders of young couples in Italy and the blundering police investigations of each murder. This book details the unprofessional and criminal behavior of Michele Guittari, (once the Chief Inspector in charge of the bungled investigations), and Guiliano Mignini (the former public minister of Perugia equivalent to a U.S. Attorney).  Both men bring shame and embarrassment to the Italians by their fervent desire to squash the truth that Preston and Spezi discover about the murders.  Don’t be put off by the myriad of Italian names that may be unfamiliar to American readers.  This story is fascinating and the crime is still unsolved.

♥♥ Lucy the Giant by Sherri L. Smith (published 2002 Delacourt Press)

This book, written primarily for Young Adults, is a classic story about a young woman who is not accepted because of her physical appearance. Throughout the story she is challenged to find out what she really values, that she loves herself, and that she really has value.  I liked the message of this book, it was positive and uplifting. 

♥♥ Back on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber (published 2007 by Mira)

Loved this book.  It’s the third in the series of “Blossom Street” books.  This also has two beautiful prayer shawl patterns to knit.  While this is a quick read and fairly mindless, it is a happy book, one that is a pleasure to read when I’ve been traveling or working too hard.

♥♥♥ Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber (published 2008 by Mira)

This book varies a bit from the other 3 “Blossom Street” books.  This one made me think about the 20 wishes that each of the characters express to their group.  I expecially like this book since the main character is challenged to do something outside of her comfort zone - and winds up helping someone else.  This book inspired me to think about my 20 wishes.  I hope it will do the same for you.