Wednesday, January 22, 2014

When God Was A Rabbit by Sarah Winman

My rating:  3.2

This book instantly pulled me in and I devoured the first few chapters. The eccentric girl and the relationship with her brother combine with Winman's writing were magical and frequently had me chuckling out loud.  Then, after the first few chapters, it lost me.  For the rest of of the book, it waxed and waned.  While Winman's writing remained lyrical throughout, it was also was in need of some editing as it was verbose. I feel that maybe she also bit off too much in the scope.  It was still a very entertaining read but, not a recommend.


Sunday, January 19, 2014

Goat Mountain by David Vann

My rating:  3.8

An unnamed 11 year old boy is the narrator in this bleak but gripping novel.  In 1978, the 11 yo boy, his grandfather, father and neighbor set out to go hunting on their 640 acre property.  The first kill is human.  This is so dark/stark that I am not recommending this book but, have to say that the writing was beautiful and artistic.  If you want a dark read, this would be a good book.


Saturday, January 4, 2014

The Medea Complex by Rachel Florence Roberts

My Rating:  4.8

If this wasn't an amazing enough book, then I find out that it is based on a true story.  Wow.  This historical fiction set in the 1900's and opens with Lady Anne believing she has been kidnapped, only to find out she is in a mental institution.  Don't read too much about this book but, if you are at all interested, watch the book trailer.   Amidst the many twists and turns it also delves into the approach to mental illness in that era.  A quick easy read that had me coming back for more.  I could see that this would make a great book club discussion.

This is from the website:

A deep and riveting psychological thriller set within an historical context, packed full of twists and turns, The Medea Complex explores the nature of the human psyche: what possesses us, drives us, and how love, passion, and hope for the future can drive us to insanity.


Friday, January 3, 2014

NPR's Best Books of 2013

It's out!  NPRs Best Books of 2013.  I can't wait to scour through this list, find out which I have read and which ones I want to add to my queue.  I need more hours in my day!!!!  http://apps.npr.org/best-books-2013