The Secret of Everything
by Barbara O'Neal
Secret of Everything (11/11/2009)
O'Neal's book, The Secret of Everything, opened more to my liking than it's ending. I thought at the beginning it would be such a good read. Her use of food for description was such a treat to the senses and her perspectives of things as though she were looking through a camera were the tidbits that kept me reading with anticipation. However, the descriptions waned as the book continued. The use of the camera for perspective became somewhat overused.
The inclusion of the recipes is a fun addition, but not really necessary to the integrity of the plot.
O'Neal crammed so many different lines into the novel, some were never fully developed. They really deserved to be and I felt the ending was so quickly and neatly resolved, that it seemed forced.
It is, however, a light read to be enjoyed by many.
Sweeping Up Glass
by Carolyn Wall
Sweeping Up Glass (8/10/2009)
The voice of Olivia Harker Cross draws the reader in the struggles of the depression as well as the horrors of prejudice and segregation. The plot line is certainly broad and wide in scope as life is. I felt that the conclusion was somewhat forced and rushed. Even so, the book is an excellent read and provides a plethora of themes for thought and discussion. I would heartily recommend it to others adults as well as teens.
Some of the Dead Are Still Breathing: Living in the Future
by Charles Bowden
Some of the Dead Are Still Breathing (2/16/2009)
While the author evoked some stunning images, the disconnectedness and lack of any cohesion prevented me from appreciating it. Rather than "streams of consciousness" I would describe most of the book as "streams of unconsciousness."
Personally, once I begin reading a book, I finish it, but this one was one of the most arduous.
Green Monster: A Sam Skarda Mystery
by Rick Shefchik
The Green Monster (7/7/2008)
I requested Green Monster, because I am always looking for books which will entice teenage boys to read - especially those interested in sports. This will fill that niche for baseball fans particularly.
It is not great literature, but I didn't anticipate that it would be. It was a fun read although parts seemed less than plausible and somewhat contrived.
I think some of my teenagers will find it to be a good read.
Madapple
by Christina Meldrum
Madapple (4/16/2008)
I purchase books for teenagers; therefore I was intrigued by Madapple.
Aslaug, isolated from society, still manifests traits of an adolescent. Her naivete hinders her ability to understand some situations, but frees her from limitations in seeking solutions as well.
Some teens and parents might find the book objectionable, but the questions which might arise can lead to thoughtful discussions. I would include it in the collection I oversee.
The author's knowledge of botany and religions and her ability to weave them into the very core of the book is impressive.
Personally I found Madapple beautifully written, enlightening, and thought provoking.
The Palace of Illusions
by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
The Palace of Illusions (3/7/2008)
Not having some knowledge of Indian myths was a detriment in reading The Palace of Illusions. As I began the book, I found terms with which I was not familiar. Hence, I had to work. However, as I continued reading, it became much more intriguing and rewarding.
The development and maturation of Panchaali, as well as her perspective as the narrator were highlights for me and caused me to pause and reflect on life in general.
