Alfie and Me: What Owls Know, What Humans Believe
by Carl Safina
Alfie-A connection to nature and a better humanity (9/24/2023)
This was the first book I have read by this author and it made me so much more aware of the magic of every day life. It left me wanting to spend more time outdoors and immerse myself in nature. The author details the relationship he develops with an owl he rescues and then the family she creates. There is also a story of how we as humans lost our way and became disconnected from nature, as well as viewed our environment as a possession rather than a gift to be valued and protected. I found it fascinating the history he provided through science, religion and philosophy that have resulted us arriving where we are today. I recommend this book as a way to open your eyes and see more clearly the responsibility we have to our world.
Wade in the Water: A Novel
by Nyani Nkrumah
A coming of age story but so much more (11/21/2022)
Wade in the Water is a coming-of-age book but much more. It is about the secrets we keep from others and from ourselves, as well as the values and lens we use to view life that have been inherited from our families, friends and culture. The characters come to life and leave you pondering how we allow ourselves to be blinded by appearances and not see what is truly important. The author's writing is incredibly vibrant and engaging. My favorite character was a blind man and best friend of Ella, who has vision beyond that of sighted people. This is a book with characters who will live on with you long after the last page is read.
Activities of Daily Living: A Novel
by Lisa Hsiao Chen
The struggle of daily activities (1/13/2022)
The title captured the main focus of the book - daily activities that impact people's lives and how all of us struggle to create meaning and purpose. I loved the word imagery that the author used as it drew me into the story but the story line itself seemed rather fragmented. The main character was struggling with the decline and care of her father while at the same time following the life and art of a local artist. The character of her father seemed to be more detailed than that of the artist. There was a bit of his life described but not enough that I was able to get a real sense of him as a person and understand the world of performing art. I enjoyed the book overall but found it a bit of a slog at times.
