What a great read! Not only hilarious in parts, it’s informative and unexpected, well-written, and reminded me sometimes of Wild by Cheryl Strayed.   posted May 15, 2013 at 9:07AM

A clever and original movie ... I forgot how good Hope Davis is in this.   posted May 5, 2013 at 1:55PM

A heart-warming, tender, sometimes heart-breaking, sometimes funny story about Auggie, a 5th grader with many facial deformities. I loved Auggie and his family (and Summer).   posted May 2, 2013 at 6:23PM

It’s such a treat when the new No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency book comes out. I always wait for the CD because the reader Lisette Lecat is so perfect! This title is #13 in the series and one of the best. Precious Ramotswe and her associate Grace Radiphuti have a surprise visitor one day - their idol Clovis Andersen, author of their beloved textbook Principles of Private Detection. Why is Clovis Andersen in Botswana, and will he help them solve two mysteries?   posted Apr 16, 2013 at 7:40PM

Fascinating book about nine amazing women. I especially loved the chapter on Julia Butterfly Hill who lived in a giant, one-thousand-year-old tree (Luna) for 738 days as an act of protest. The book includes an interesting A-Z list of How to Live a More Reckless Life. These wild women make for inspiring and entertaining reading!   posted Mar 20, 2013 at 12:03PM

Schrank’s story interested me and the premise really was original but I found the writing awkward and stilted. I finally gave up halfway through. It’s a shame because he has a good idea for a novel.   posted Mar 18, 2013 at 10:36AM

Excellent movie about a young couple who drinks too much. The wife decides she needs to get sober and the husband continues drinking. Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s performance is stunning.   posted Mar 14, 2013 at 2:34PM

A delightfully written and exhaustively researched biography on Julia Child. I laughed so much during the chapters on her childhood ... what a pistol Julia was even then! The book covers her entire life (Julia kept up an amazing work schedule even into her late 80s). Upon finishing this long biography, I felt like I had lost a very close friend. If you loved her memoir My Life in France, or the movie Julie and Julia, you will absolutely devour this book. It’s just wonderful, dearie.   posted Mar 4, 2013 at 10:30AM

Gorgeous photographs from the 1960s of Audrey Hepburn. I enjoyed reading the accompanying quotes by Audrey, her friends, family and colleagues.   posted Feb 4, 2013 at 2:50PM

It took me awhile to get into this novel but then I was glued to the story of Hazel and Augustus, two teens with cancer. Predictable plot? No, it surprises in many ways. A haunting love story that will break your heart. Favorite line: “I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, then all at once.” Another good line: "You don’t get to choose if you get hurt in this world, old man, but you do have some say in who hurts you.”   posted Jan 6, 2013 at 9:21AM

Annie’s hit another home run. This little book is very readable and very wise.   posted Dec 31, 2012 at 12:42PM

Entertaining cozy mystery about a Minnesota librarian who gets dumped by her boyfriend just hours before they are to leave on a much anticipated first trip to London. He takes another woman in her place. Our brokenhearted yet determined-to-see-London heroine Karen buys another ticket and flies over on their flight, half-seriously planning revenge. I loved the references to London, books, and the ending was just perfect. To be a series. Written by Mary Logue using the pen name Mary Lou Kirwin. HCL librarian Mary S. is mentioned in Kirwin’s acknowledgments!   posted Dec 30, 2012 at 10:29AM

I agree this is a very strange movie but it’s also a very beautiful and thought-provoking movie.   posted Dec 11, 2012 at 9:49AM

This is chick lit a cut above the rest. I enjoyed Gemma’s take on her career as a professional cook, working for a variety of clients (some were really from hell), and her interesting personal life. If you’re looking for a breezy read with well-developed characters, this works better than okay.   posted Nov 24, 2012 at 3:12PM

I read this book a few years ago but I recently listened to it and it’s vastly more entertaining as an audiobook. Nora Ephron reads her own words and she is droll, disarming and often hilarious. I will listen to this again. Favorite essays: On Maintenance and a more serious essay, On Rapture (about Nora’s love of reading).   posted Nov 8, 2012 at 8:57PM

A totally addictive series - yes, the subject matter is disturbing but what a story, what fine acting!   posted Oct 30, 2012 at 11:18AM

Looking for a quirky novel? This is it! I had no idea where the author was going at any time. I got a kick out of Bernadette Fox, socially offbeat genius, former famous architect, mother of 8th grader Bee, and wife of Elgin Branch, a Microsoft genius. Bee’s excellent grades are rewarded with Bee’s fondest desire ... a trip to Antarctica. Then Bernadette disappears. Where’d you go, Bernadette? Fun book!   posted Oct 25, 2012 at 1:15PM

I found this story about two very different (from each other) couples, told over several decades, engrossing and worth the reading. Stegner is great at character development.   posted Oct 24, 2012 at 9:11AM

Due to my recent Nora Ephron obsession (her books and movies), I just re-read Heartburn and I remembered I forgot how deliciously good this novel is. It’s very funny ... it’s as though Nora is speaking to you as a friend about her doomed second marriage to Carl Bernstein of Watergate fame (although she’s changed the names Nora and Carl to Rachel and Mark). Yes, the subject matter is very sad but Nora manages to make you laugh most of the way through this novel. And I love how she effortlessly works recipes into the narrative (recipes you may want to try).   posted Sep 18, 2012 at 3:09PM

A lightweight but enjoyable read. I found the idea intriguing; several women in Maine watch Meryl Streep movies together, discuss them, and relate the movies’ stories to their lives - lives that are wrapped up way too neatly in the end. This would be a good beach read.   posted Sep 4, 2012 at 3:19PM

A beautifully written memoir of a friendship between two writers, Ann Patchett and Lucy Grealy. They became best friends after college graduation when they both were students in the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, a two year residency program. Lucy was a very complex, needy, intelligent, difficult yet charming person. Ann was such an devoted friend to her. Lucy had part of her jaw removed at age nine when she was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma. She endured numerous surgeries since then, and problems with her face continued. The story of Ann and Lucy’s extraordinary friendship will stay with you. Try to listen to the audiobook... Ann narrates the story with beautiful expression. Lucy wrote the acclaimed memoir Autobiography of a Face.   posted Aug 20, 2012 at 4:38PM

A fast-paced intriguing court case about a DA’s 14-year-old son ultimately arrested for the murder the DA is investigating. The ending shocked me. I will look for Landay’s previous novels.   posted Aug 16, 2012 at 10:20AM

A unique book of poetry - 42 entertainers share their favorite poems. Actors include John Lithgow, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Dianne Wiest; poets include Mary Oliver, Rilke and Shakespeare. A CD is included to hear 30 poems read aloud by the actors. A book to savor and enjoy.   posted Aug 13, 2012 at 12:11PM

I read this book a few years back but I recently listened to it and it’s vastly more entertaining as an audiobook. Nora Ephron reads her own words and she is droll, disarming and often hilarious. I will listen to this again. Favorite essays: On Maintenance (prepare to laugh if you’re over 50), and On Rapture is wonderful (about her love of reading).   posted Aug 9, 2012 at 1:25PM

The first page will draw you in and you’ll be a goner until the end. Compulsively readable. Dark, funny, complex and unforgettable. What a marriage!   posted Jul 28, 2012 at 9:29AM

I couldn’t put this one down and hated to see it end. It’s a beautifully told story of a young woman’s long solo trek up the Pacific Crest Trail. You felt like you were there with her. Cheryl was an inexperienced hiker in too small hiking boots. She encountered rattlesnakes, bears, both strange and kind people, and difficult conditions. Cheryl Strayed came to our book club years ago when we discussed her wonderful novel Torch. She was so friendly and fun to talk with. I am thrilled for her huge success now that Oprah has chosen Wild for her next book club discussion!   posted Jun 18, 2012 at 10:02AM

British chick lit - I enjoyed this but it was overly long and Katie’s mother was so annoying. But I liked Katie and was glad to see her stick up for herself after long struggles with first her mother, then her husband.   posted Apr 25, 2012 at 4:40PM

This book was a find. The author, in her grief at her sister’s death, finds comfort in her decision to read a book a day for one year. She learns a lot about herself, life, and moving on from this project. I enjoyed this book immensely.   posted Apr 5, 2012 at 10:22AM

Very readable - often hilarious, sometimes very sad, disturbing, inspiring, and ultimately a page turner of a great memoir.   posted Mar 5, 2012 at 10:41AM

Becomethecatalyst, thanks for reminding me of this beautiful book. I love Kirsten’s poetry. The Star Trib did a big feature on her after she died. I believe she was only 14 or 15.   posted Feb 29, 2012 at 3:02PM

A beautifully written memoir, very poignant and moving about Melissa’s coming of age in the 1970s in Maine while her parents worked the land and tried to be entirely self-sufficient. Their idealistic hopes and dreams turned into struggle then into tragedy and loss. I loved Melissa’s clear writing. This was my first ebook reading experience, downloaded from the library’s collection.   posted Feb 28, 2012 at 2:28PM

Absolutely amazing story. I couldn’t stop reading. Great story-telling and not to be missed. When you are finished, be sure to look Louis Zamperini up on youtube - what a man!   posted Feb 13, 2012 at 10:43AM

An addictive mini-series starring the great Kate Winslet. Evan Rachel Wood shines, too.   posted Feb 7, 2012 at 6:59PM

Enthralling read - especially if you love the Lake Harriet/Calhoun area. Brenda Ueland (1891-1985) wrote about her childhood, career, and adulthood with fascinating and honest musings on life. She did her best thinking on her daily walk(s) around her dearly loved Lake Harriet.   posted Nov 18, 2011 at 12:07PM

A very enjoyable read - especially if you’ve been to Charleston or Sullivan’s Island. This first novel is a real page-turner. Hilarious in parts, spiritual in others, with a main character you will love. Susan is very feisty. Her relationship with the family housekeeper Livvie is beautiful. Livvie helped her grow, cope and develop much more than her real mother ever did. This book often reminded me of Prince of Tides. Also for readers who enjoyed The Help.   posted Oct 6, 2011 at 9:41AM

This may be the best novel I have ever read. I finished it with tears in my eyes and in awe of Ann Patchett’s talent. The writing is gorgeous. The novel begins and ends in Eden Prairie, Minnesota with most of the story set in the jungles of the Amazon. It’s thrilling, moving, original, and not to be missed!   posted Sep 20, 2011 at 2:44PM

Well acted drama set in a small farming community in Australia. Rachel Ward (Meggie from The Thorn Birds) is the older of two women vets who work with the town’s animals and humans in this gritty series. I loved the soundtrack by The Audreys, an Australian blues band.   posted Sep 19, 2011 at 3:40PM

Colin Firth is impressive as the single father of two girls. But Mary (Perla Haney-Jardine), the younger daughter, steals the show. A quiet, thoughtful drama about a family recovering from the loss of their mother/wife (Hope Davis).   posted Aug 30, 2011 at 4:59PM

Fascinating stories about the Peace Corps in Africa. I especially enjoyed former HCL librarian Solveig Nilsen’s piece entitled Your Parents Visited You in Africa?   posted Aug 9, 2011 at 7:45PM

Loved the book, barely endured the movie.   posted Jul 21, 2011 at 10:58AM

Laura Linney is so good in this!   posted Jul 20, 2011 at 10:23AM

If you enjoyed The Paris Wife by Paula McLain, read Hadley, the First Mrs. Hemingway. Fascinating biography and I loved seeing the pictures of Hadley throughout her lifetime.   posted Jul 12, 2011 at 6:25PM

Great page-turner for summer reading! A domestic violence case with surprises, along with romance and suspense. A well-written debut.   posted Jul 12, 2011 at 3:37PM

I loved this memoir. Wise, funny, beautifully written and thoughtful.   posted Jun 28, 2011 at 2:04PM

Wonderfully acted film set in London about a happily married couple and their needy friend Mary. The actress who played Mary did an amazing job. Loved this movie.   posted Jun 13, 2011 at 11:56AM

I was mesmerized watching this six hour film on PBS years ago. Slow in parts but ultimately fascinating. How this real family in Nebraska struggled with their farm and their marriage. The young wife is beyond patient ... she’s also intelligent and resourceful. She is so natural in front of the camera. I enjoyed reading the interpretive essays about The Farmer’s Wife on PBS’ website ... by Jane Hamilton, Kathleen Norris, Maggie Scarf and others.   posted May 26, 2011 at 12:54PM

What a great memoir. Unputdownable.   posted May 12, 2011 at 8:53AM

Pat Conroy’s gruff voice takes some getting used to but it soon grew on me and I enjoyed the audiobook. His Gone with the Wind chapter ... so interesting! ... and the chapter on his beloved English teacher was a favorite part. The librarian essay was not at all what I expected! This book, though terribly sad in parts, is a wonderful tribute to the joy and power of reading. The last two chapters would especially inspire writers-to-be.   posted May 2, 2011 at 9:18AM

Disturbing and well-acted. This British film has been compared to Precious.   posted Apr 4, 2011 at 11:38AM

Love, love, love this book! Gorgeous pictures and ideas, and I love the quotes sprinkled throughout.   posted Mar 15, 2011 at 2:56PM

Fascinating film, but you must first watch the original documentary (same title) with the real mother and daughter. Drew Barrymore absolutely mimics Little Edie. It’s truly astounding.   posted Mar 7, 2011 at 10:41AM

Meryl Streep is excellent (isn’t she always?) in this Wendy Wasserstein play recorded in 1978. Meryl is about 29. I enjoyed seeing young Swoosie Kurtz and Jill Eikenberry in this play, too.   posted Feb 26, 2011 at 12:23PM

A down-on-his-luck lawyer makes the life-changing decision to write 365 thank you notes in one year. This fast read will inspire you to write more thank you notes.   posted Feb 5, 2011 at 9:36AM

Patti Lupone’s big voice and personality come shining through in this audiobook read by Patti herself. She’s very funny and brutally honest in this memoir of her childhood, getting started and succeeding on Broadway, the stage, film and television.   posted Jan 6, 2011 at 10:49AM

Life changing book that makes you think about how you are spending your time. An example of its wisdom (page 411): Saying "yes" to more things than we can actually manage to be present for with integrity and ease of being is in effect saying "no" to all those things and people and places we have already said "yes" to.   posted Nov 8, 2010 at 4:17PM

The movie title is The American   posted Oct 25, 2010 at 2:19PM

The true story of the artist Seraphine Louis, a quiet, poor housekeeper who started painting in 1905 at the age of 41 because her guardian angel told her to. Her employer, fortunately for Seraphine and the world, was an art critic and discovered her genius. However, Seraphine had little interest in fame or glory. Seraphine was spiritual, humble and her own person. I found her very intriguing. This film won the Seven Cesars which is the equivalent of our Academy Award.   posted Oct 19, 2010 at 10:52AM

I agree with itascapark. I found this film moving, well-acted and true to life. Anne Hathaway is really good in this. And I really enjoyed seeing Debra Winger in a movie again. Her character was unlikable but as always, she’s an excellent actor.   posted Oct 5, 2010 at 3:52PM

I enjoyed this movie very much, too. Clever, light, entertaining; and I love the subject heading in the catalog: Lawn chairs -- Drama. I doubt many movies or books have that subject heading.   posted Sep 23, 2010 at 4:06PM

Stunning memoir about friendship and dogs.   posted Sep 9, 2010 at 9:17PM

Although this movie has a great cast, it has a poor script. Very ordinary and not memorable.   posted Sep 7, 2010 at 4:57PM

What a wonderful audio! I expected lots of funny stories from Carol’s career (which are delightfully told) but I didn’t expect the spiritual and very moving parts. Carol is a great reader. This is so enjoyable if you have fond memories of The Carol Burnett Show. I especially loved the Tim Conway anecdotes. He’s nuts! And Carrie and the Fib is very cute.   posted Jun 23, 2010 at 10:09AM

Excellent British series about an undertaker and a midwife. I loved it.   posted Jun 15, 2010 at 8:54PM

Moving film, good acting, great ending. See it!   posted May 30, 2010 at 12:21PM

Best movie I have seen in a very long time. I watched my favorite part four times. Original, lovely, and surprising film about humanity and music. Don’t miss this wonderful Oscar nominated Swedish film!   posted May 4, 2010 at 12:52PM

Inspired the movie Invictus.   posted Mar 10, 2010 at 11:53AM

Push inspired the movie Precious.   posted Mar 10, 2010 at 11:17AM

Fascinating foreign film set in Budapest. Good story with a surprise ending.   posted Mar 8, 2010 at 2:27PM

The author reads the story of her six year marriage and its ending (along with a satisfying epilogue). Isabel Gillies gives up her New York career (she played a small role on Law and Order: Special Victims Unit) to follow her poetry professor husband when he is hired by Oberlin College in Ohio. She loves her life in Oberlin raising their two small sons, and is stunned when one day her husband says, "I can’t do this anymore." She suspects he’s involved with the new English professor, and Isabel tells what happens next with class, brutal honesty and occasional humor.   posted Feb 23, 2010 at 1:03PM

I enjoyed watching the 20th anniversary edition. The deleted scenes and other extras were great. The film holds up wonderfully twenty years later. What a great movie... if you haven’t seen it, do! John Cusack is adorable as Lloyd Dobler. And Ione Skye (the singer Donovan’s daughter!) is perfect as Diane.   posted Feb 4, 2010 at 11:36AM

Very enjoyable audiobook about Rose, happily married for 25 years to Nathan, and then he leaves her for Rose’s assistant and "friend" who also takes over her job and her house. Rose learns that living well is the best revenge. Set in London, this novel is well-written, thoughtful and often amusing.   posted Jan 21, 2010 at 10:23AM

In Stitches, a new work presented in graphic art form, David Small tells the story of his lonely childhood (abuse, cancer, mother from hell). Never gratuitous, this redemptive memoir is a powerful experience and impossible to forget. In a word: wow. (David Small wrote and illustrated many children’s books including the popular Imogene’s Antlers.)   posted Oct 22, 2009 at 9:04AM

A likeable, quirky young couple travel to various cities hoping to find the perfect place to raise their baby. Really good cast, and the movie is funny, touching and unpredictable.   posted Oct 21, 2009 at 3:28PM

I read this eons ago but remember how I loved the character development and the romance between Peter and Rina. Start of a great series.   posted Sep 30, 2009 at 12:06PM

I agree with Razor’s review on 9/6/09. I read Wish You Well a long time ago and still remember how much I loved it. It’s totally different from Baldacci’s usual fare. This is a very moving story that stays with you.   posted Sep 10, 2009 at 10:23AM

Incredible acting (all three leads) and an ending that makes for a great discussion. Good movie!   posted Aug 2, 2009 at 1:01PM

If you don’t mind a very slow-moving movie, you will enjoy this character study of Wendy, down on her luck, and her relationship with her dog Lucy. Michelle Williams does a great job playing Wendy.   posted Aug 2, 2009 at 12:58PM

Fascinating book about your mind’s constant unconscious thoughts/chatter (your ego), and how the watcher of those thoughts is really you. Tolle expands on his The Power of Now and living in the present. Life changing book. Tolle is the reader on the CD.   posted Jul 2, 2009 at 4:18PM

A friend told me about this book, and I love it! It’s one to savor. Read a random page now and then. Well-traveled Vivian goes through the seasons month by month, describing and beautifully illustrating the pleasures of "staying put."   posted Jun 18, 2009 at 3:27PM

You can totally enjoy these last two episodes of the Vicar of Dibley British series even if you haven’t seen the previous shows. Vicar Geraldine develops a big crush on a handsome stranger who moves to her little town. Very fun...and very very funny.   posted May 28, 2009 at 3:24PM

Funny and moving... the movie is not so great, however.   posted May 26, 2009 at 10:35AM

Wonderful audiobook. Barack Obama himself reads his story with great expression, humor, and candor. I am learning so much about our new president. He’s had a very interesting life and it’s just going to get more interesting.   posted Mar 2, 2009 at 10:21AM

This novel, narrated by a wise old dog named Enzo, is entertaining, life affirming and sometimes funny. A perfect, beautiful ending, too. I loved it.   posted Feb 16, 2009 at 9:56AM

These are really fun... modern situations using Shakespeare plots. I especially enjoyed Shirley Henderson playing the shrew in the Taming of the Shrew. And Twiggy (model from the 60s) plays her mother.   posted Jan 26, 2009 at 11:32AM

Very interesting character study. Kristin Scott Thomas is great in this French film.   posted Jan 15, 2009 at 4:42PM

One of the best films of 2008. This documentary has footage of Petit’s aerial walks/dances/rests on a 7/8 inch wire he and friends illegally set up between New York City’s Twin Towers in 1974. He says Americans always ask him why he did it. His answer is "there is no why."   posted Jan 4, 2009 at 12:54PM

This book is so fascinating! All about Philippe Petit’s plan and then his walks/dancing/rests on a wire between the Twin Towers in 1974. Also see the new film Man on Wire.   posted Dec 29, 2008 at 3:00PM

I'd never done this before; after reading the library copy I ran out to buy it! Love this book!   posted Dec 28, 2008 at 10:46AM

Really great book. Finally had to buy it.   posted Dec 4, 2008 at 12:18PM

A memoir told in drawings about the author approaching age 50, involved with the same man for several years but she is leery of marriage, and then she decides to adopt a child who lives across the world. Both funny and moving, this is a great fast read.   posted Dec 4, 2008 at 9:22AM

Funny yet has its sweet moments. I liked it very much.   posted Dec 2, 2008 at 3:41PM

Definitely not sweet. My favorite Ruth Rendell novel. Great read.   posted Dec 2, 2008 at 3:33PM

I am almost finished listening to this fascinating and eye-opening memoir (Ayaan is also the reader and she does a wonderful job). Very gripping, often shocking, Ayann’s story of growing up in Somalia and other African countries reaffirms how fortunate we are to live with personal freedoms.   posted Nov 11, 2008 at 1:41PM

These stories are amazing... this book is even better than Small Miracles by the same authors. My favorite story in this collection is Life in a Jar, about Irena Sendler. Don’t miss it.   posted Oct 30, 2008 at 3:43PM

This film will break your heart. And it’s very informative.   posted Oct 27, 2008 at 4:39PM

One of the best movies I have seen in a long time. I really enjoyed the story and the acting.   posted Oct 18, 2008 at 8:35AM

Excellent human drama about a lonely widower and a young immigrant couple, and the friendship they forge. Tom McCarthy also wrote and directed the Station Agent.   posted Oct 12, 2008 at 4:39PM

What a pure voice! Even Sting agrees she did a better job with Fields of Gold than he did. I could listen to this CD forever.   posted Sep 6, 2008 at 3:22PM

Set in Australia, this series showcases good acting and interesting relationships.   posted Aug 23, 2008 at 4:52PM

Don’t miss this one. Set in Brazil, a lonely mean old woman forms a reluctant bond with a young boy who needs help. Good story and the ending is very moving. I loved it.   posted Aug 21, 2008 at 7:29AM

Definitely worth reading. I saw part of his lecture on a television special (the entire lecture is available online) but the book tells you more about Randy; his childhood, his parents, how he met his wife Jai and the birth of their three kids. The second half of the book is from the actual lecture where Randy discusses Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams. Very moving, with great ideas on living a full life no matter how long you’ve got. This is one you will want to read more than once.   posted Aug 20, 2008 at 2:34PM

Wayne Dyer talks about intention and what it means in one’s life. His viewpoint is interesting and valuable. Do not miss the Bonus material where he talks about the big changing point in his life. He resolves his anger towards his long dead father who abandoned his family when Wayne was a very young boy. How the universe helped him reach this point is an amazing story.   posted Aug 18, 2008 at 12:45PM

I enjoyed this movie. Excellent acting. It is dark humor but interesting throughout. I was never sure where it was going next. The Belgium backdrop was intriguing. And the ending can be interpreted two ways. We had a lively discussion afterwards.   posted Jul 16, 2008 at 8:52AM

Very interesting book about life changing events. I especially liked Wayne Dyer’s personal story. Inspirational and good reading.   posted Jul 8, 2008 at 6:07PM

Undiscovered was a surprise. Very literary with poetry, introspective, creative and thoughtful. She mentions some of her movies but not much on that topic. Debra Winger liked making films but didn’t care for the movie star lifestyle. She created her life to her own specifications. I really enjoyed this book. And... the drawings are by famed Twin Towers tightrope walker Philippe Petit, another surprise!   posted Jun 23, 2008 at 12:35PM

Bliss! A new book in the delightful No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series! If you haven’t read these books, I suggest you listen to them (and in order). The reader is the absolutely perfect Lisette Lecat. For a long time I wondered why I loved this series so much since I don’t usually like mysteries. Then I realized they are character driven. The characters (so beautifully drawn) are much more important than the mysteries. Now my question is: when does the next book come out?   posted Jun 18, 2008 at 2:06PM

I haven't had one McDonald's fry after seeing the extras on this DVD - you probably won't either!   posted Jun 12, 2008 at 7:06PM

Amazing study! I first heard about this book on Bookspace and had to read it. The book is "the most comprehensive study of nutrition ever conducted." Very eye-opening!   posted Jun 12, 2008 at 4:12PM

Very interesting audiobook. Weisberg covers the family dynamics in the Bush family; especially between father (#41) and son (#43) and brother (Jeb) and George W. The Bush dynasty is shown with startling parallels to the tragedy in Shakespeare’s Henry V.   posted May 15, 2008 at 12:47PM

I really enjoyed this novel. It’s a shame it’s out of print. Great story of a friendship between two very different women.   posted May 13, 2008 at 2:47PM

Most shocking and disturbing ending I have ever read.   posted Apr 30, 2008 at 11:10AM

I love the last sentence of this wonderful first novel.   posted Apr 30, 2008 at 11:09AM

This ending upset me.   posted Apr 30, 2008 at 11:09AM

The perfect ending. Safran Foer is a genius.   posted Apr 30, 2008 at 11:08AM

Happy and great ending. Love this book!   posted Apr 30, 2008 at 11:08AM

If you enjoy Julie Andrews’ distinctive voice, you will love this memoir on CD - both written and narrated by her. In her clear and expressive British way, she reads her book about her childhood and early career. Her childhood was difficult and she is so candid about her growing up years. I loved her dad. Her mother is another story. She relates many interesting ancedotes about starring in My Fair Lady on Broadway and her relationship with her first husband. Not a typical tell-all, this is classy and very well-written. I looked forward to listening to this book every time I got into my car.   posted Apr 28, 2008 at 9:49AM

Helen Mirren talks in a conversational, funny, interesting and likable way about her life from her childhood to the present, candidly discussing her long career and personal life. An oversized book, In the Frame has hundreds of photos from her amazing life.   posted Apr 16, 2008 at 11:32AM

A wise friend told me about this book and I’m very glad she did. It’s a great little book to give to your daughters or to give to yourself. Stoddard comments on several simple truths in life; one example... "when you’ve made your point, sit down."   posted Apr 1, 2008 at 7:43PM

If you are a Steve Martin fan, you’re in for a real treat. Read by Steve himself, this short (4 discs) memoir is about his childhood and early career years. He describes his first guest appearance on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, writing for the Sonny & Cher Show and Laugh-In, and getting stand-up gigs around the country. Sometimes candid and moving, sometimes laugh out loud funny, this is a very well-written memoir by one of America’s favorite comics.   posted Mar 12, 2008 at 2:12PM

I loved this 45 minute (one disc) unabridged book. Anna Quindlen is both author and reader. It meant more to hear Anna herself tell the tale of her beloved black lab Beau. A definite tear jerker, Anna tells us about Beau from puppyhood to his old age and death, in her characteristic wise and wonderful way.   posted Feb 3, 2008 at 12:24PM

This is a great little book! Jon Gordon gives 103 tips on becoming an energy addict - each tip is only one or two pages long. Examples are: switch your candy bowl to a fruit bowl... and invest your energy in what matters most. A lot of common sense but good reminders in our attempts to have a richer/more energetic life.   posted Jan 31, 2008 at 2:33PM

I watched this movie without reading the book first and really enjoyed it. Interesting story, great acting, and, best of all, it was not predictable.   posted Jan 22, 2008 at 11:53AM

I had never heard of this Katharine Hepburn/Cary Grant movie so I had low expectations. But I was very pleasantly surprised. Good story, great acting, and it was fun to see those two perform acrobatics!   posted Jan 7, 2008 at 8:53AM

Don’t let the title or subject matter confuse you or put you off. Yes, this is a book about writing and it is also about life and how to live it. If you are a writer, it’s an excellent (and very funny) writing manual. If you’re not, you will still love it. I do.   posted Dec 19, 2007 at 5:01PM

My friend kept raving about Outlander and I wasn’t that enthused since I didn’t think I liked time travel. I tried the abridged audiotapes and then I was hooked - and I had to find the unabridged set. Great novel; very exciting and extremely difficult to put down.   posted Dec 19, 2007 at 4:53PM

Operating Instructions was the first book I read by Anne Lamott and it remains one of my favorites (I also love Bird by Bird). It’s about Anne’s first year as single mom to her son Sam. For the most part the book is hilarious but there is also a sad element when Anne’s best friend copes with cancer. Just like life sometimes; happy and sad events at the same time.   posted Dec 5, 2007 at 9:52AM

I enjoyed this novel - fast paced, breezy, funny and poignant... recommended for a quick enjoyable read.   posted Nov 28, 2007 at 1:05PM

Ann Rule, a master of true crime reporting, grabs the reader with her latest book. In 2004 the young wife of a Georgia dentist was shot to death at home. During the investigation it comes to light that the husband's former girlfriend also died by gunshot years ago but it was ruled a suicide. This page-turner is not gory but laden with psychological and human detail. I couldn't put it down.   posted Nov 27, 2007 at 10:58AM

Not many books have made me laugh out loud and also shed tears. This one did. Gilbert writes with tremendous candor and humor about struggling through her crisis of the soul. I hated to see this memoir come to an end.   posted Nov 20, 2007 at 8:55AM

This first novel is one of those books you have a very hard time putting down. I was fascinated by the love story but the ending totally stunned me. This is a writer to watch. I can’t wait to read Horan’s next book.   posted Nov 14, 2007 at 9:44AM

Oh, I love this music! As I watched the movie in the theater, I thought to myself, I will buy this soundtrack! It’s one you will listen to over and over.   posted Sep 15, 2007 at 3:21PM

What an addictive series! If you liked Prime Suspect, you will like the Closer. Kyra Sedgwick is so good in this show!   posted Aug 26, 2007 at 2:10PM

Beautifully told; I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fine actor’s journey to becoming herself.   posted Aug 26, 2007 at 1:00PM

Best ending ever in any movie I have seen (and I have seen a lot of movies!). Not necessary to see Before Sunrise beforehand but I highly recommend it. The movie will be even more wonderful if you have the background of the couple. Julie Delpy as Celine is amazing in this film.   posted Jul 29, 2007 at 4:02PM

Hilarious book. I told my friend to read it on the plane to London, and she was actually mad at me because she couldn’t stop reading it and read till 2 am and was dead tired her first day there!   posted Jun 21, 2007 at 2:52PM

Totally satisfying first novel! The main character Natalie Miller is very likable and she grows so much by the end of the book. Highly recommend; this author is talented.   posted Jun 19, 2007 at 1:31PM

Single mom Debra Ginsberg writes an amazing memoir about raising her son Blaze who had a difficult birth and consequently processed his world differently from most kids. Her memoir reads like a novel. I couldn’t put it down. Her patience, frustrations, humor and love are all here for the reading.   posted May 31, 2007 at 4:42PM

Actors Angela Bassett (What's Love Got to Do With It)and her husband Courtney Vance tell their story in alternating chapters. Each spouse talks about their childhood and career path but the story of their friendship and marriage (it was a first marriage for each of them as they approached age 40) is the meat of the book. Their thoughtful ideas on creating a happy marriage and family would make a great wedding gift.   posted May 22, 2007 at 2:58PM

Excellent movie. And a true story! Don’t miss this one.   posted May 9, 2007 at 6:11PM

Beautiful book; so much more to it than I expected. Fascinating to read about a cloistered nun. Beryl tells her story in an honest way. Very hard to put this one down.   posted Apr 29, 2007 at 4:51PM

You wouldn't think a book about fixing up a 1951 International Harvester pickup truck could be so wonderful! I have no interest in trucks yet I love this book. Perry lives in a small Wisconsin town, he's almost 40, he's had several failed romances. He writes about his beloved truck, garden and eccentric friends. He meets his future wife at the public library. A born story teller, he entertains as he reflects on his life during the course of a year. One story he tells about an older couple he keenly observed in a restaurant will stay with me forever.   posted Feb 24, 2007 at 10:57AM

First in a series set in Botswana.   posted Feb 22, 2007 at 4:23PM

One of the best first novels ever written.   posted Feb 22, 2007 at 10:39AM

Don't miss this one... beautiful.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:45PM

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This is a true original.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:44PM

Mostly funny but one part made me burst into tears.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:41PM

First book I had to buy immediately after reading the library copy.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:40PM

Dear to my heart...   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:39PM

What an original voice - I love this book.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:39PM

Best novel about grief (yet it has its lighter moments) I have ever read.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:38PM

Funny and moving... soon to be a movie.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:37PM

Probably one of the best first novels ever written.   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:36PM

You just can't believe a male author got a female voice so right!   posted Feb 20, 2007 at 8:33PM

Wonderful book and I can attest to the recipes as I just took a class from the author and tasted five of the soups - heavenly!!   posted Jan 6, 2007 at 10:10AM

I loved this book! It starts off funny and sweet, then it deepens so along with many laughs you get tears in your eyes and a lump in your throat. Read this actual diary from the 70s!   posted Nov 16, 2006 at 1:23PM

Stephen King says this is the best memoir he’s ever read. That caused me to give it a try and if it’s not the best memoir I’ve read, it’s very close. I loved Thomas’ style; very intimate, sometimes funny, always poignant and thoughtful. She learns to cope after her husband is severely mentally challenged after a car accident. She eventually starts to enjoy life again with the help of writing and her three beloved dogs.   posted Oct 3, 2006 at 12:13PM

I love this movie - I’m glad the library purchased it. Good movie for teens and adults to watch - great family message.   posted Jul 19, 2006 at 10:48AM

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this novel. It’s so well written, and the tie-ins to Little Women are masterfully done. I loved how Brooks told the story mostly from Mr. March’s point of view, but near the end Marmee got a turn to tell her story. Highly recommended historical fiction.   posted Jul 17, 2006 at 10:59AM

Excellent family drama. One of those page-turners with wonderful dialogue between characters you care about. Teresa, a young mother of two teens dies of cancer and the story explores the grief of her children and her common law husband Bruce. I hated to see this book end.   posted Jun 29, 2006 at 6:47PM

What a total delight. Blue Shoes is one of those books you cannot wait to read, you eagerly read every wonderful word, and alas, it’s over much too soon. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in this totally delicious series about Precious Ramotswe, the traditionally built lady detective from Botswana!   posted Jun 27, 2006 at 12:21PM

What a childhood! Although author Jeannette Walls had a very strange, difficult and odd childhood, her parents did love her in their own albeit selfish ways. You won’t be able to stop reading this one!   posted Jun 24, 2006 at 12:16PM

The beautiful and rich granddaughter of a famous movie star, Siena McMahon grows up adoring her grandfather and wanting to emulate his fame and talent. Her father, however, cannot stand the grandfather (his father) and when Siena refuses go to medical school as he wishes, he disowns her. This is a fat juicy beach read. I listened to it on CD and reader Barbara Rosenblat does an amazing job with the British and American accents. Bagshawe writes in the style of Sidney Sheldon; a real page-turner.   posted Jun 12, 2006 at 4:44PM

Beautifully written, The Girls is a very unique novel. Told mostly from the point of view of Rose, the novel is Rose’s autobiography of her life as a conjoined twin. Ruby, her twin, contributes some of her thoughts although she does not consider herself a writer. I found this book very fascinating; it’s a hard one to put down.   posted Jun 10, 2006 at 2:13PM

I picked up this novel because of all the excellent reviews it was receiving. This is truly an addictive novel - I listened to it (over 500 pages in print) every chance I got. If you enjoy a long, thick, juicy, soap-opera-like novel with some evil and some endearing characters, you will eat this up. It’s well written, too. Parts of this novel really surprised me.   posted Jun 10, 2006 at 11:06AM

Anne of Green Gables: One of the best movies ever! I wore out my video, then had to buy my own DVD. Megan Follows is perfect as Anne. This movie is wonderful from beginning to end. The music, the acting, the costumes, the scenery. I can pop in the movie and any scene makes me laugh or cry. A classic. Perfect for the whole family - boys like it, too!   posted May 20, 2006 at 11:55AM

Marley and Me is a delight. Although I'm a cat person, I love this book. Marley is a huge, goofy, big-hearted dog and his pure dog love for his family (and his odd ways) will touch you. I didn't expect to cry reading this but I couldn't help it. Don't miss this wonderful book about Marley written by his master.   posted May 19, 2006 at 11:15AM

Not only is this total nostalgia to see this show after 30 years (I was in high school then), it's still wonderful to see the extraordinary energy Liza had. I can't think of another performer who gives such heart/soul/energy and everything they have during a performance. The entire show is wonderful - I especially love Ring Them Bells and the Cabaret medley.   posted May 11, 2006 at 3:35PM