The Joy of Books

Why We Should Believe in Santa Claus by Alexander McCall Smith

2009-12-16T21:50:00.000-08:00

Why We Should Believe

in Santa Claus

by Alexander McCall Smith

Some of us were born in places that no longer are. In my case, it was a country called Southern Rhodesia. You will not find it on a map today, but you will find Zimbabwe, which is what it became. There it is, in the middle of Africa, a part of the world that, for all its trials, is still one of the most beautiful.

Christmas there was at the hottest time of the year. As a child, I remember being puzzled by many of the images of Christmas that we saw in books and magazines. Christmas was all about winter: fields of snow, holly wreaths, carolers gathered around warming fires. This all seemed very exotic and exciting and added to the magic of what happened on the great day itself.

We went to church and sang those carols with all their wintry imagery, “In the Bleak Midwinter,” and so on, more snow and ice. But before we went to the Christmas service, we’d undergo the ritual of waiting outside the closed door of the living room, all of us children bursting with excitement. At exactly six o’clock, the door would be opened and we would go in to see if Santa—or Father Christmas, as we knew him, a name I still marginally prefer—had stopped by. He always had, and he signified his presence by eating the cookie and drinking the glass of milk that we had left for him by the fireplace. Proof! There it was—crumbs on the floor and an empty glass. How could anyone doubt his existence?

And I was not a doubter. Additional evidence was before my eyes in the shape of a pillowcase full of presents. Quite remarkably, they were often the things I had expressed a desire to have. What a mind reader he was!

I stopped believing in Santa when I was 7, and I vividly recall the precise circumstances those many years ago when my belief came to an end. All of us remember where we were when important things happened. Such memories are curious nuggets amongst the dark furniture of our minds, amongst the vague images and associations that make up our memory of things that happened to us a long time ago.

We were preparing for a holiday party a few days before Christmas itself. I knew that my father was due to appear as Santa, a role that he played well, in spite of being too tall and thin to be entirely convincing. But he sportingly donned the classic red outfit, so hot and inappropriate to African conditions, and stuck the cotton-wool beard to his chin. It was evening, and we were standing under a great night sky almost white with stars, limitless constellations soaring and dipping against a background of dark velvet.

Suddenly my father turned to me and said, “You don’t believe in Father Christmas anymore, do you?” I froze. I stood quite still, looking up at the evening sky. A shooting star flashed across the heavens. It did. I remember it to this day, because it seemed like a portent.

I was in an agony of indecision. If I said, “No, I do not believe,” then what would happen to all the presents I was hoping to get? It might be, you see, that Santa was listening to us and would mark my card accordingly: “No longer believes in me—no presents this year.”

Reason, the rational part of me, won out, and I said, “No, I no longer believe.” The heavens did not fall. No sleigh pulled by wounded reindeer slewed out of control in the sky above. Nothing happened. The world went on, as it always does, after all those small moments when something magical or mysterious is denied or lost.

There is a moment in J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan when the audience is invited to revive the dying fairy Tinkerbell and told, “If you believe in fairies, clap your hands.” And every time, the theater breaks into sustained applause. That is not to suggest there are theaters full of seriously deluded people. What it does tell us is that there are times when we need to pretend to believe in things we know not to be true. We know that the world is a place of suffering and hardship, and we know, too, that justice and kindness and love and such things will not always prevail against these hard realities. Myths help us to get by. The day they all die and we tell our children exactly how things are, the world will be a poorer, less enchanted place. So don’t be ashamed to clap your hands at Peter Pan or act as if Santa exists. He stands for kindness and generosity, and those things are alive and will continue to be alive—as long as we believe in them.

Alexander McCall Smith is the best-selling author of the “No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” series. His newest novel is “La’s Orchestra Saves the World.”

From Parade Magazine - http://www.parade.com/news/2009/12/13-why-we-should-believe-in-santa-claus.html

Disclosure Policy

2009-10-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

I know that the FCC disclosure policy for bloggers hasn't taken effect yet, but I decided to post this, update any posts I may have missed and get in the habit of telling you when a publisher GIVES me a book to review.

Anyone who has read my reviews will know that no matter what the price of a book is, I'm not sold that easily and will pan a book as easily as I will praise it, regardless of how I acquired it.

Ask Elizabeth Samet about how fond I am of the piece of crap and political propaganda she put out.

Or read the review on Rule Number Two - I would have paid double to read this gem.

I also have links to Amazon.com. They 'pay' a percentage of the sale to me IF you click on the link on my site and purchase it. After a couple of years, my account is up to $26.53 and they don't pay until I acquire $100.00. Don't think this rapid influx of money is going to benefit me soon!

The FCC has crafted yet more legislation to regulate the dishonest and the corrupt - but, will only cause difficulties for those of us with our little blogs and tiny readerships.

The Good Husband of Zebra Drive ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2009-02-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

The Good Husband of Zebra Drive

by Alexander McCall Smith

In the eighth book in the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency Series, Mme Ramotswe's husband, Mr. J. L. B. Matekoni, goes out on a case and Mma Makutsi resigns - for a bit anyway. As changes occur and life goes on, the steadfast Precious Ramotswe is once again reminded of the blessings in her life and the goodness in her country.

In this installment, the rich characters come alive with their foibles and their antics. We are drawn, once again, into a world that is uniquely of Botswana, and yet is of the world. The richness of the relationships of the people in Precious Ramotswe's world are a delight.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)
Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)
Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)
Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)
Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)
Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)
Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)
Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)
Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

Hawke ~ Ted Bell

2009-01-05T23:01:00.000-08:00

HAWKE

Ted Bell

I enjoyed every wild moment of this book!

I was introduced to Ted Bell via a radio interview. I enjoyed his personable and entertaining manner, so I immediately ordered his books!

The first book in the sequence is Hawke. The story opens with a young boy caught in the position to witness the unspeakable horror of having his parents murdered. He is then raised by his grandfather and becomes a highly decorated hero of Her Majesty's Royal Navy and, later, an operative for the British and the Americans.

His mission takes him back to the same Caribbean waters. As he tries to stop the Cubans from acquiring and using nuclear weapons, he encounters the men from his past who terrorized him as a child. The time for justice has arrived.

This book was fast moving and hard to put down. The characters were colorful and real. For me, the only weakness was the love story.

Great and Fun Read!!!!

Knitting Under the Influence ~ Claire LaZebnik

2008-12-30T09:12:00.000-08:00

Knitting Under the Influence

Claire LaZebnik

0-446-69795-8

As knitting became 'popular' recently, so did the genre of 'knitting novels.' I have been a knitter most of my life and find most of these books as shallow as the finished items being produced by the new knitters. I have tried to be generous to them, but this book had no purpose for the knitting ties whatsoever, and was very strained when it was attempted.

This is the story of three young women friends who share indiscrimanate sex and alcohol intake as the tie that binds them together. Knitting attempts to be the vehicle, but fails miserably. This is nothing more than a modern romance novel that delves into sexual pleasure and drunkeness - at the end all three are 'in love.'

The interesting part of this book was the story line that followed a therapist who works with autistic children. I appreciated the attention to detail in the specifics of autism - a disease that the author is personally associated with.

However, for the most part, the end pages sum up the knitting - a listing of the knitted projects turn out to be drink recipes.

Not a bad romance novel, but this is not a knitting book.

(Book received as a free preview copy)

The Winding Ways Quilt ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-11-18T10:47:00.000-08:00

The Winding Ways Quilt

Jennifer Chiaverini

Book 12 in the Elm Creek Quilt Series

As life does, the time has come for several members to make major changes in their lives, to move far away, to start over after great hurts and disappointments, to mend fences and to be the new people to join the circle of friends.

As Sylvia sees the founding members lives changing so drastically, she commemorates each of their lives with a special Winding Ways quilt. We learn more about each of the quilters lives.

"When I think of all the different paths I could have followed in my life, all the twists and turns that could have led me anywhere," muses incoming teacher Gretchen, "it's something of a miracle that I ended up here, surrounded by loving friends."

Another beautiful Elm Creek Quilts story about wonderful people.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin
Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters
Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt
Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy
Book 6 - The Master Quilter
Book 7 - The Sugar Camp Quilt
Book 8 - The Christmas Quilt
Book 9 - Circle of Quilters

Book 10 - The Quilter's Homecoming

Book 11 - The New Year's Quilt

Dear John ~ Norma L Betz

2008-11-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

Dear John

~Norma L Betz

978-1-4343-1071-2

This is a delightful first novel from an author who shows great promise.

A young woman is faced with the death of her last relative - the aunt she was named for and who helped her when her parents were tragically killed when she was nineteen. Through love, support and financial assistance, her aunt made sure she completed college and graduate school. As young adults do, Suzanna allowed the distance to grow between them as she established her life and career. Now, her only family was gone and she had to face the obligation to sort through the life that is gone. Any adult who has faced becoming an orphan can relate to the multitude of emotions that one suffers through.

With her companion, Quincy, a five-year-old Weimaraner, Susanna heads to the home she has inherited from her aunt. When she arrives, she meets the people who have shared her aunt's life and the haunting questions about her past. She inherits a treasure trove of history from their ancestor Abigail Adams, including some of the letters she wrote to John Adams in the beginning of the Revolution. Susanna becomes inspired by Abigail's letters. And, she becomes inspired by her aunt's life as she gets to know her aunt's friends, and finds that they are embracing her as a friend as well. It is the story of the strength of a family of women... the quiet strength that keeps them going through life. While Suzanna is admiring it in Abigail and her Aunt Suzanna, she comes to realize that it is something else she shares with them.

Unfortunately, the wealth of the treasures become a target for someone unscrupulous and causes grave danger to Susanna and Quincy and their new friends, as well as the beginnings of love.

Anyone who is interested in American history will enjoy a journey into some of the letters of Abigail Adams during the early years of the Revolution. The journey is memorable and a remarkable window on the world of 1775.

I really enjoyed this book!

The critical side of me has to complain loudly about the font used for the letters of Abigail Adams. It was nice to have a font change to distinguish the letters from the story, but the one used was difficult to read, which made it harder to enjoy the wealth of the letters and to enjoy the book.

If I were to give any advise to Norma Betz, I would say DO NOT HOLD BACK. I felt like she was always trying to neatly package and contain her characters, yet she had created these wonderfully deep characters who wanted to breathe. Let them breathe! Quincy, too!

I hope Norma Betz follows with a second book!

Her website is found here.

(Book received as a free preview copy)

Lone Survivor~Marcus Luttrell

2008-11-12T00:02:00.000-08:00

Lone Survivor

The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing

and the Lost Heroes of Seal Team 10

By Marcus Luttrell

I pre-ordered this book when I first heard about it. When I received it, I began reading it. It is a long and intense book, and I didn't do much else while I was reading it. Everyone in America should read this book to better understand the amazing men and women who fight for us each and every day and the challenges they confront along the way.

The book is written in two quite distinct parts. The first part is about Seal Training and the second part is about Operation Redwing. Interwoven in the two parts is Marcus Luttrell's life before and after Afghanistan, and his quest to visit each of the families of his friends who were lost and his healing and understanding of the events that occured that day.

The Prologue opens with "..my name is Marcus. And I'm writing this book because of my three buddies Mikey, Danny and Axe. If I don't write it, no one will ever understand the indomitable courage under fire of those three Americans. And that would be the biggest tragedy of all."

The first half of the book is autobiographical. We learn of Marcus' life in Texas - and he's all Texan! - the lifelong desire to become a Navy SEAL and the grueling school to become a Navy SEAL. If you want to know what becoming a SEAL is all about, Marcus tells you. Their training is beyond intense and you can't help but have complete respect for SEALs and hold them in awe for their courage, strenght and fortitude. They are trained in body and mind.

The second half of the book deals with Operation Redwing. Marcus takes us into the battle, into the death of his team and dear friends - Mike Murphey, Danny Deitz and Matt Axelson. The grueling battle, the fall of over one thousand feet down a mountain side, the struggle to survive despite the vast number of enemies, is beyond imagining. After the enemy has killed his friends, Marcus is severly wounded and presumed dead by American forces. In spite of his injuries, he crawls over seven miles while confronting the assassins sent to kill him. He is taken in by a Pashtun tribe who risk everything to keep him alive and eventually get him back to American forces.

In addition to the loss of the three members of Marcus' SEAL team, the CH-47 rescue helicopter with a rescue and reinforcement team was shot down by a rocket propelled grenade. It was the largest loss of life in SEAL history, and the largest loss of Special Operations Forces since D-Day. Nineteen highly trained, dedicated and patriotic men died that day:

Petty Officer Danny Dietz (SEAL Team 1)

Petty Officer Matthew Axelson (SEAL Team 1)

Navy Lt. Mike Murphy (SEAL Team 1)

Chief Warrant Officer Corey J. Goodnature (pilot, US Army 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment)

Chief Warrant Officer Chris J. Scherkenbach (pilot, US Army 160th SOAR)

Sgt. Kip A. Jacoby (US Army, 160th SOAR)

Sgt. 1st Class Marcus V. Muralles (US Army, 160th SOAR)

Chief Petty Officer Jacques J. Fontan (SEAL Team 10)

Lt. Cmdr. Erik S. Kristensen (SEAL Team 10)

Petty Officer 2nd Class James Suh (SEAL Team 1)

Petty Officer First Class Jeff Taylor (SEAL Team 10 Medic)

Sgt. First Class Michael Russell (US Army, 160th SOAR)

Maj. Steve Reich (pilot, US Army 160th SOAR)

Master Sgt. James "Tre" Ponder III (US Army, 160th SOAR)

Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric Shane Patton (SEAL Team 1)

U.S. Navy Lt. Michael McGreevy (SEAL Team 10)

Petty Officer Jeffrey Alan Lucas (SEAM Team 10)

Senior Chief Petty Officer Dan Healy (SEAL Team 1)

SSgt. Shamus Goare (US Army, 160th SOAR)

Marcus also gives us a parallel view of what was going on at his home during the time he was missing and presumed dead. He tells of the dedication of his family, friends, the SEAL community and the Texans who came to hold vigil. The spirit and faith of these people, many of whom did not know Marcus, is overwhelming and inspiring. It truly made me proud to live in the same America that they live in.

For their bravery and courage under fire Marcus Luttrell (previously known as "The One"), Danny Dietz and Matthew Axelson were awarded the Navy Cross. Michael Murphey was awarded a Silver Star and is being reviewed for a Medal of Honor.

If you ever have any questions about what patriotism, love of country, devotion, courage and bravery are, you only need to read this book to understand what they really mean. I have read this book twice. It has been an emotional journey, a journey of such profound pride in these young men, a journey of anger at trying to impose political correctness into warfare, a journey into the love between people that keeps them going on in spite of great tragedy.

I have heard Marcus' voice telling us what patriotism, love of country, devotion, courage and bravery are and how we undermine it at home. His anger is real. As is his love of his team, his friends, his family, Texas, and America. His shy and introspective nature is pushed to the side to tell this story and to give opinions about America at War. He had to leave the Navy - the thing he loved the most - to tell this story, because his love for his teammates and the truth was even greater. For that, I am truly grateful. Knowing about these twenty Americans has enriched my life.

As I listen to and watch the many interviews with Marcus Luttrell, I see a man who will ever be torn by the grief that was laid upon him by the events of Operation Redwing. I also see a man who gives the greatest respect for people he knows do not respect him, his brothers, the truth.

A great interview with Marcus Luttrell was done by Texas Radio KVET - 98 FM:

To play the media please click on the link below or paste it into your web browser

Part One: http://www.kvet.com/cc-common/mediaplayer/player.html?mps=Default&mid=http://a1135.g.akamai.net/f/1135/23782/1h/cchannel.download.akamai.com/23782/1048/richmedia/Kvet_Rick_PerryNavy_Seal.mp3?CCOMRRMID=4644003&CPROG=RICHMEDIA&MARKET=AUSTIN-TX&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;NG_FORMAT=country&NG_ID=kvet98fm&OR_NEWSFORMAT=&OWNER=1048&SERVER_NAME=www.kvet.com&SITE_ID=1048&STATION_ID=KVET-FM&TRACK=rick_perry_navy_seal

Part Two: http://www.kvet.com/cc-common/mediaplayer/player.html?mps=Default&mid=http://a1135.g.akamai.net/f/1135/23782/1h/cchannel.download.akamai.com/23782/1048/richmedia/Kvet_Rick_PerryNavy_Seal_2.mp3?CCOMRRMID=4644691&CPROG=RICHMEDIA&MARKET=AUSTIN-TX&NG_FORMAT=country&NG_ID=kvet98fm&OR_NEWSFORMAT=&OWNER=1048&SERVER_NAME=www.kvet.com&SITE_ID=1048&STATION_ID=KVET-FM&TRACK=rick_perry_navy_seal_2

If you want to know what a hero looks like, here are two - Danny Dietz and Marcus Luttrell.

This is a must read for all Americans. Read this book!

Previous Posts:

http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/02/navy-cross-axelson-dietz-one.html

Marcus Luttrell: http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/02/hero-to-remember-one.html

Danny Dietz: http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/02/hero-to-remember-po2-danny-p-dietz.html

Matthew Axelson: http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/02/hero-to-remember-po2-matthew-g-axelson.html

Michael Murphey: http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/02/silver-star-lt-michael-p-murphy.html

Rescue Team: http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/07/lone-survivor-rescue-team.html
Since this review was written, Michael Murphey has been awarded a Medal of Honor.

Blue Shoes and Happiness ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Blue Shoes

and Happiness

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 7 in the Series

No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Once again, Mme Ramotswe is ready to help people solve their problems - the solvable ones, that is - and it takes a certain amount of living to know the difference between the two as Mme does.

Mma Makutsi may have run off her fiance. But, Mme will help her get her life back on track.

These glorious books are a wonderful journey into life in Botswana.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)

Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)

Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)

Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)

Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)

Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)

Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)

Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)

Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

In the Company of Cheerful Ladies ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

In the Company
of Cheerful Ladies

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 6 in the Series
No 1 Ladies Detective Agency

Mme Precious Ramotswe is baffled when a mysterious pumpkin appears on her porch and deeply rattled when a visitor forces her to confront the painful secrets of her past.

Meanwhile, Mr J L B Matekoni is having apprentice problems and Mma Makutsi is taking dancing lessons, partnered with a man with two feet.

Another beautifully told story about wonderful characters.
Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)

Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)

Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)

Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)

Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)

Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)

Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)

Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)

Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

The Full Cupboard of Life ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Full Cupboard

of Life

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 5 in the Series

No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Once again Mme Ramotswe uses her vast intuitive skills and her abilities to judge character to help people. Big-hearted and gently to the point, Mme Ramotswe is always available to help. Meanwhile, Mma Potokwane, matron of the orphan farm, has more requests for Mr J L B Matekoni.

Another charming tale from a remarkable storyteller.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)
Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)
Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)
Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)
Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)
Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)
Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)
Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)
Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

The Kalahari Typing School for Men ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Kalahari
Typing School
for Men

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 4 in the Series
No 1 Ladies Detective Agency

Mme Ramotswe is living a good life - a successful business, two adopted children, a wonderful fiance and in her own house at the finest age to be (her mid-thirties). Yet, life always throws troubles in the way, often small ones, yet troubles nonetheless.

Mma Makutsi, her assistant, is wanting a husband, and also starts a typing school in the evenings to supplement her income.

More tales from a delightful story teller about truly delightful people.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)

Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)

Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)

Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)

Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)

Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)

Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)

Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)

Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

Morality for Beautiful Girls ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

Morality for
Beautiful Girls

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 3 in the Series
No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Mme Ramotswe continues her successful, though often financially troubled, detective agency. Mme is successful, not only because of her deductions, but because of her exceptional ability to judge character correctly.

In this book, we learn more about the Mr J L B Matekoni, the complicated and dependable fiance of Mme Ramotswe.

This is another delightful story in the series, which shares the lives of very wonderful characters and the realities of life in Botswana!

These are wonderful 'travel books' - books that are easy to take with you and to read on the go - while traveling or waiting. They are a joy to read.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)
Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)
Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)
Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)
Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)
Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)
Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)
Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)
Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

Tears of the Giraffe ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-06T00:02:00.000-08:00

Tears of
the Giraffe

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 2 in the Series

No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Mme Ramotswe returns in another beautifully crafted book aobut her detective agency, her engagement to a wonderful and caring man, his adoption of two orphans, and her talented secretary who is learning to come unto her own.

This book is beautifully written with characters who are real in their goodness or their wickedness, this book shares the spirit of Botswana, the sense of the country. You can feel the heat and smell the dust in the writing.

These are wonderful 'travel books' - books that are easy to take with you and to read on the go - while traveling or waiting. They are a joy to read.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)
Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)
Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)
Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)
Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)
Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)
Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)
Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)
Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

The No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency ~ Alexander McCall Smith

2008-11-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

The No 1
Ladies' Detective Agency

Alexander McCall Smith

Book 1 in the Series

No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Mme Precious Ramotswe is the first female detective in Botswana. A strong woman who overcomes profound adversity in her life, Mme Ramotswe sets up a small storefront in Gaborone and begins her profession to "help people with the problems in their lives."

This is the first in the ongoing stories about Mme Ramotswe. The characters are real and compelling. The descriptions of Botswana are distinct and beautiful. The writing has a special charm and gentleness that allows us to see the sorrow and vulnerability of Mme Romotswe, with the compassion, intelligence and integrity that endears her to us.

These are wonderful 'travel books' - books that are easy to take with you and to read on the go - while traveling or waiting. They are a joy to read.

Author's Website: http://www.alexandermccallsmith.com/

Book 1 - The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency (1998)
Book 2 - Tears of the Giraffe (2000)
Book 3 - Morality for Beautiful Girls (2001)
Book 4 - The Kalahari Typing School for Men (2002)
Book 5 - The Full Cupboard of Life (2004)
Book 6 - In the Company of Cheerful Ladies (2004)
Book 7 - Blue Shoes and Happiness (2006)
Book 8 - The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (2007)
Book 9 - The Miracle at Speedy Motors (2008)

Playing for Pizza ~ John Grisham

2008-11-04T00:29:00.000-08:00

Playing for Pizza

John Grisham

When I read, I always enjoy those books the most that are written by a great storyteller. John Grisham is, indeed, a great storyteller. Most readers know him for his legal thrillers, which are excellent. But, I am truly fond of the human interest stories that he tells, such as Playing for Pizza.

Grisham develops characters that you can relate to - whether you like them or not, you feel that you know them. He then inserts them into the fluxes of life, where we see the errors and joys coming at them.

Playing for Pizza is the story of a professional football player who is no longer wanted in the United States, but finds a job as the starting quarterback for the Panthers of Parma, Italy.

This is a wonderful story of football, culture clashes and the human spirit. I enjoyed it very much and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good story!

A Thousand Splendid Suns ~ Khaled Hosseini

2008-11-03T00:15:00.000-08:00

A Thousand Splendid Suns

Khaled Hosseini

Hosseini's first novel, The Kite Runner, became more than a success, it became a classic in the art of storytelling. In his second novel, Hosseini proves that he, indeed, has the gift of storytelling.

Set in the Afghanistan of the Soviet invasion, the rule of the Taliban and the current reconstruction of a war torn land, this is a story of generations of strong women who struggle to survive, to raise their children and perhaps find a moment or two of happiness in a world that sees no reason for women to be thought of as human.

Hosseini creates characters of strength and perserverance. Their lives are intertwined due to the cruelty of life. Through it all, they become friends and family.

This is a magnificent read. It is timely and helps one to understand the struggles faced in Afghanistan today.

I would urge you to go to Hosseini's web page and view his interview videos....

Legacy ~ James A Michener

2008-11-02T00:02:00.000-07:00

Legacy

James A. Michener

200 years - the anniversary of the Constitution - 80 years - the authors birthday - the gift is this amazing short novel that each American should read.

Legacy is a powerful journey through the history of America. Told as a reflective journey of Major Norman Starr, it is every Americans truth and justice and history. We journey through the lives of a member of Constitutional Convention, a Suffragette, a Supreme Court Justice, a warrior.

What we find along the journey is America ~ the nobility and power of this magnificent country.

This short novel can be read in an evening. It is remarkably moving. It makes you proud to be an American.

Soldier's Heart ~ Elizabeth Samet

2008-11-01T10:53:00.000-07:00

Soldier's Heart: Reading Literature through Peace and War at West Point
by Elizabeth D Samet

It has taken me a while to even decide to review this book. I received a copy from the publisher and, while I felt like I was obligated to review it, I hate that I have not one kind word for this book, and that I never finished it. About 2/3 of the way through, I gave myself dispensation from the torture of reading it.

Elizabeth Samet teaches English at West Point. She has held the position for 10 years. This book is about - well what I thought and what it says are two different things.

The book is difficult to read. There is no chronological or logical order to it. It skips from place to place and time to time and topic to topic without warning and sometimes without any logic. In fact, it can be very confusing and frustrating. It reads more like a diary than a book. She will talk about Fred or Harry or Sue, but she never tells you who they are or why their story is important. Like diary mentions which jog your memory, her characters are relevant to no one but her. When she does begin to develop any story, she seems to leave you with more questions than she answers.

In the first paragraph of the first chapeter:
"The firsties were in a reflective mood: later that month, news of the death of a very popular recent graduate, Emily Perez, would carry them for a time into the doldrums."
She never tells you any more. Who was Emily Perez? How did she die? Car Accident, Cancer, Murder, Slip and Fall, or Fallen in Battle. Well, Elizabeth Samet is not going to tell you. But, I will. Please read here to know about Emily Perez. That sentence is as developed and complete as any character will be, which both frustrated and bored me.

Had the structure of the book been readable, I probably could have overlooked the anti-war rhetoric that is thrown in. Like everything with this book, when it appears, it is meaningless and annoying and thrown in at inappropriate places. My assessment of Ms Samet's world view is that, while she teaches at West Point, she never sees a reason for the cadets to use their training. In fact, there seems to be an intended 'feminization' of the cadets and a disappointment in those who will not succumb. I felt a desire to mold the cadets in opposition to their purpose at the United States Military Academy. She seems to resent any religious expression, political expression, patriotism and will never understand the 'cult of sacrifice' she calls the unity of soldiers to one another. Needless to say, I disagree with her on every point.

The fly leaves are well written, and I was looking forward to reading it, but the book disappoints profoundly. Ms. Samet may well be an exceptional teacher, but she is not an exceptional writer. This was one of the worst reads I have ever had. Do NOT waste your time with this book.

(Book received as a free preview copy - Hey, FCC, that didn't help this review!)

Otis the Musical Owl ~ Joseph N Chappelle

2008-10-31T08:55:00.000-07:00

Otis the Musical Owl

Joseph N Chappelle

This is the story of an owl who is injured, taken to a rehab facility and then escapes and begins a quest to find his family. This children's book is part fact, part fiction and lots of fantasy, but there are no illustrations to assist the gaps in the story line.

One must suspend all logic while reading this book. It flits from reality to fantasy and back again. I felt that many pages had fallen out - that the story was denied its destiny to flourish. There were too many sections where the story never finished and went off in a different direction. There is amazing creativity here, but the story should have been fuller and longer.

It is a shame, as it raises many philosophical questions that are good for children to ponder.

(Book received as a free preview copy)

In A Time of War ~ Bill Murphy Jr

2008-10-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

In A Time of War:
The Proud and Perilous Journey of
West Point's Class of 2002

By Bill Murphy Jr

When September 11, 2001 happened, the senior class at West Point was to become the first class to graduate during the War on Terror. At their graduation, they heard President Bush deliver the speech that became known as the 'Bush Doctrine' - America would take the fight to the enemy. They were destined to become the junior officers on the front lines of Afghanistan and Iraq.

Bill Murphy's book follows a small group of the graduates of 2002 - friends who stay close through West Point, advanced training, deployments, marriages, children, wounds and death. From around the globe, their friendship bonded them together.

The book follows these young officers in many settings and experiences. As life unfolds, Mr. Murphy shares the all too human successes and disappointments, the wounds external and internal, the death of friends and the mourning of friends and family. They serve. They sacrifice. And, most of all, they stay friends.

Since this is a true story, nothing fits tidily in a box for the plot. But, the people are so memorable that you will never forget some of them....

Drew Sloan -
Drew was wounded in Afghanistan, after many surgeries to rebuild his face, requested deployment to Iraq. He is currently at Harvard in graduate school.

Todd Bryant
Todd lost his life in Iraq - October 31 2003 - leaving behind his new wife Jen.

Tim Moshier
Tim was an Apache helicopter pilot who lost his life in Iraq on April 1, 2006

Their stories should be on the front pages of newspapers in this nation. Unfortunately, they are not. But, Bill Murphy tells their stories in this remarkable book that everyone should read.

The author's web page is www.inatimeofwar.com

The New Year's Quilt ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

The New Year's Quilt

By Jennifer Chiaverini

Book 11 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

This is a lovely volume of Sylvia's reminisces of her personal trials and how they left her with sorrow and her refusal to take that sorrow into her future. As she takes up a quilt project, she struggles with reconciliation with her new daughter-in-law, who opposed their late in life marriage. Sylvia wants to convince her that family is more important than pride.

With the love of her new husband, the memories of past sorrows and stitches of love put into a quilt, Sylvia wants everyone to remember, "We can't hold on to the past, but we can keep the best part of 'Auld Lang Syne' in our hearts and in our memories, and we can look forward to the future with hope and resolve."

Another lovely story for Elm Creek Manor.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice

Book 2 - Round Robin

Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters

Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy

Book 6 - The Master Quilter

Book 7 - The Sugar Camp Quilt

Book 8 - The Christmas Quilt

Book 9 - Circle of Quilters

Book 10 - The Quilter's Homecoming

Dead Heat ~ Joel C Rosenberg

2008-10-28T00:02:00.000-07:00

Dead Heat

by Joel C Rosenberg

Book 5 of 5 in the Series

In the final book of the series, we find newlyweds, Jon and Erin working in the refugee camps in Jordan. The world's dictators and tyrants continue to gain power. Nuclear attacks hit the United States, ending the country as it is known.

It is left to Jon and Erin to answer the mysterious call that promises it can be stopped. As jon races to try, prophecies become reality.

This entire series leaves much to think about - both historical and biblical. It would be very frustrating to read them out of sequence, as they build upon one another. It was an exciting ride to read these books. And, I very much thank Russ for introducing me to them!

Book 1 - The Last Jihad
Book 2 - The Last Days
Book 3 - The Ezekiel Option
Book 4 - The Copper Scroll
Book 5 - Dead Heat

The Copper Scroll ~ Joel C Rosenberg

2008-10-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Copper Scroll

by Joel C Rosenberg

Book 4 of 5 in the Series

Suicide bombers and assassinations in the United States and Europe are showing the evil that still lurks in the world. A new power is rising in Iraq and the city of Babylon is being rebuilt.

Jon Bennett and Erin McCoy are drawn back into a world of terror when they embark on the search for a 2,000 year-old scroll that could lead to the discovery of riches and artifacts leading to the Third Jewish Temple. Some call it history's greatest treasure map. Others call it a road map to Armageddon. Many want to stop them on their quest as they struggle for world power.

Another exciting book in the series and filled with Biblical prophecy.

Book 1 - The Last Jihad
Book 2 - The Last Days
Book 3 - The Ezekiel Option
Book 4 - The Copper Scroll
Book 5 - Dead Heat

The Ezekiel Option ~ Joel C Rosenberg

2008-10-26T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Ezekiel Option

by Joel C Rosenberg

Book 3 of 5 in the Series

Yasser Arafat has joined bin Laden and Saddam. Peace has come to the Middle East. Prosperity and security have come to the Middle East. The President is trying to spread freedom and democracy, the Israelis and the Palestinians have signed an historic peace treaty.

Jon Bennett and Erin McCoy are still uneasy as they see Iran building nuclear weapons and a new dictator in Russia emerging. The world is on the edge of an apocalypse.

Book 1 - The Last Jihad
Book 2 - The Last Days
Book 3 - The Ezekiel Option
Book 4 - The Copper Scroll
Book 5 - Dead Heat

The Last Days ~ Joel C Rosenberg

2008-10-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Last Days

by Joel C Rosenberg

Book 2 of 5 in the Series

As the book opens, Osama bin Laden is dead, Saddam Hussein is dead, Baghdad is in ruins, the middle east is trying to recover from the war. Jon Bennett and Erin McCoy are attempting to put an Arab-Israeli Peace Plan in place, which includes the oil and gas reserves discovered in the region. But, in order to get the venture capital needed, the parties must put aside the long hatred and learn to get along, to provide an environment for capitalism to take old.

While the negotiations continue, there are evil men determined to derail the process and destroy the process.

Another exciting page turner of a book, with Biblical prophesies about the end times.

Book 1 - The Last Jihad
Book 2 - The Last Days
Book 3 - The Ezekiel Option
Book 4 - The Copper Scroll
Book 5 - Dead Heat

The Last Jihad ~ Joel Rosenberg

2008-10-24T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Last Jihad

By Joel Rosenberg

Book 1 of 5 in the series

Written before September Eleventh and published before the Iraq War, Joel Rosenberg takes us into the cockpit of a plane on a suicide mission - crashing into the President's convoy. It is discovered that the Butcher of Baghdad is behind the attack, and further attacks ensue.

Jon Bennett is recruited by the President to assist in unity against Iraq and discovers that nuclear weapons are part of the plan. A united Russia and Iraq take on the world. Jon and his partner, Erin McCoy, broker an oil deal in the middle east which unites Israel with her Arab neighbors.

This book is a superb political thriller and also a novel of Biblical prophecy of the end days. It is exciting from the first page to the last and a terrific read.

Book 1 - The Last Jihad
Book 2 - The Last Days
Book 3 - The Ezekiel Option
Book 4 - The Copper Scroll
Book 5 - Dead Heat

The Quilter's Homecoming ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-23T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Quilter's Homecoming

By Jennifer Chiaverini

Book 10 in the Elm Creek Quilts Novels

This book in the series takes us on a journey with a new bride, Elizabeth, from Elm Creek Manor who travels with her new husband from Pennsylvania to California during the the twenties. Once they arrive, they discover they have been victims of a scam. Penniless and friendless, they manage to eek out a living in the Arboles Valley.

Finding quilts in the decrepit cabin they live in, Elizabeth tenderly cleans and mends the quilts made so long ago with so much love. She discovers the quilts were made by the mother of a neighbor. The women find that they share much in the hardship in life, and form a friendship that transcends the pain in their daily lives.

This is a fabulous book about the period of the twenties, especially about the hill country north of Los Angeles. Chiaverini's writing is crisp and descriptive - easy to smell the dust, the sweat, to feel the heat and the cold.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice

Book 2 - Round Robin

Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters

Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy

Book 6 - The Master Quilter

Book 7 - The Sugar Camp Quilt

Book 8 - The Christmas Quilt

Book 9 - Circle of Quilter's

Saving Babylon ~ Paul Holton

2008-10-21T00:02:00.000-07:00

I first met "Chief Wiggles" through his blog - written from the beginning of the war in Iraq. It was an interesting and insightful account of his experiences during the war. "Chief Wiggles" is Paul Horton. Paul, a chief warrant officer in the Utah National Guard, is also the founder of Operation Give, a humanitarian organization that ships toys, medicine, and educational supplies to children in war-torn and devastated nations throughout the world. His book, Saving Babylon, The Heart of an Army Interrogator in Iraq, is a journal of his experiences in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Saving Babylon will make you laugh and make you cry. It is a wonderful journey, and I was quite glad to take it. This is the firsthand account of an Army interrogator who worked hand-in-hand with Iraqis at all levels in building a new nation. Saving Babylon is a must-read for every American. You will learn what the media refuse to report.

I strongly recommend this book.

My Men Are My Heroes ~ Brad Kasal

2008-10-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

My Men Are My Heroes

The Brad Kasal Story

-as told to Nathaniel R Helms

When Brad Kasal was carried out of the 'house of hell' in Fallujah by LCpl Chris Marquez and LCpl Dan Shaffer, on Novemver 13, 2004, he had lost approximately 60 percent of his blood from more that 40 shrapnel wounds and seven 7.62mm AK-47 gunshots. The men had to put down their weapons to carry Kasal out, but Kasal came out armed, ready to protect them if need be. Lucian M Reed, an AP photographer, took the above photo which has become a symbol of the perservetance, heroism, valor, honor and fortitude of the United States Marine Corps and the rest of our military troops.

This book is a journey through Brad Kasal's life and through the streets of Fallujah, into the 'house of hell' to rescue his pinned down Marines. It is also an insight into the mind of a leader of men, a warrior, a Marine. The section dealing with the assault on Fallujah and the time in the 'house of hell' gave me sweaty palms with the intensity of the situation. The book does a remarkable job explaining who the enemy is and how they fight - and, how we fight.

Brad Kasal, while leading from the front, a position he is most comfortable in, led an assault on a house where Marines were pinned down. During the fight, Kasal was hit by direct fire and used his body to absorb the blast of a grenade, shielding a wounded Marine. He later won a Navy Cross for his actions (Hero to Remember: Sgt Maj Brad Kasal).

This is a moving description of the "tip of the spear" - a place most of us would never want to be, but thankfully, we have men like SGT Major Brad Kasal there keeping the rest of us safe and free. This book is graphic and hard to read in some places, but I have no doubt that it is honest to the reality. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more about the battle for Fallujah.

Sgt Major Brad Kasal wrote a remarkable Epilogue to the book. He tells us that he wrote the book to counter the lack of information in the news.

The biased media have made an impression on the American citezens and the terrorists themselves. Every time the media give airtime to a protestor, it gives another victory to the terrorists rather than to the protestors. And people believe what they read in the paper because it is all the information they have to go on. One time while I was at dinner with a few friends a lady approached me and asked what happened to my leg. At that point, I looked like something out of horror movie and was in a wheelchair. At first she was very conderned. But as soon as I told her I was in the military and injured overseas, she began to go into a long antimilitary tirade about how we don't need a military, and how there's never a reason for a war, and all the service members are dying unnecessarily. Biting back my anger for all the fine men who gave the ultimate sacrifice that she just dishonored, I simply replied with "Ma'am, you're very welcome; I'm sure what you meant to say was 'thank you' to myself and all the other service members who have made sacrifices to give you the freedom to openly make whatever statement you desire."

I'll be the first to say, as I've seen it numerous times firsthand, that war is an ugly thing. But sometimes you have to fight for what you believe in. We are facing a worldwide enemy who has only one agenda: the complete annihilation of the American way of life. and that enemy will stop at nothing short of that goal.

Freedom has never come free. Whatever your beliefs or political stance, our young service members of all branches are performing remarkably and making a difference. In Iraq combat was only a small part of our overall role. Military service members performed countless humanitarian projects ranging from large-scale items -- such as building new schools, hospitals, and community services -- to everyday things as small as handing out candy and pencils to children or helping a farmer with a flat tire.

These valiant young men are helping to bring freedom to a country that was previously without it. They are constantly facing the dangers of IEDs, suicide bombers, and ambushes while they capture or kill terrorists who have no regard for human life.

Many people are amazed that I whis to return overseas as soon as I'm healthy again. But serving my country is where my heart is. It is my wish that the American media would show the true and complete story of what is really going on overseas and tell the story of how our service members are performing selfless acts of heroism and helping to bring freedom and a better way of life to a country.

Sgt Major Brad Kasal dedicated the book "to the memory of the members of 3d Battalion, 1st Marines who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the fight for Fallujah." I am listing their names here ~ may we honor them all.

Headquarters and Service Company

SSgt Russell L Slay

SSgt Trevor L Spink

Sgt Krisna Nachampassak

Cpl Bradley T Arms

Cpl Nicanor A Alverez

Cpl Terry Holmes

LCpl Louis W Qualls

LCpl James E Swain

PFC Christopher J Reed

Weapons- George Company

Sgt Byron W Norwood
Cpl Brian Oliveira
Cpl Steven Rintamaki
LCpl Joshua W Dickinson
LCpl Abraham Simpson

Kilo Company

Sgt Christoper T Heflin
Sgr Morgan W Strader
LCpl Jeramy A Ailes
LCpl Juan E Segura

India Company

Cpl Dale A Burger, Jr
LCpl Justin D McLeese
LCpl andres H Perez
LCpl Phillip G West
PFC Fernando B Hannon
PFC Geoffrey Perez

Lima Company

Sgt Juan Calderon, Jr
Sgt William C James
Cpl Theodore A Bowling
LCpl Benjamin S Bryan

LCpl Lusi A Figueroa

LCpl Michael W Hanks

LCpl Nicholas D Larson

LCpl Nathan R Wood

The First 48 ~ Tim Green

2008-10-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

The First 48

by Tim Green

Police operate on the theory that if a kidnapped victim isn't found within the first 48 hours, they will be killed. A reporter, Jean Redmon, digging into a corruption case which implicates the Senator who destroyed her fathers career, disappears. The police suspect kidnapping.

Her father, a former cop, now a low rent attorney and alcoholic knows he has a brief window to find and save his daughter. Joined by his friend, Mike Tubbs, they embark upon a frantic journey, where each step uses up valuable time.

This is a fast paced story... violent... terrifying... It reaches to the uppermost levels of the government and to the worst of humanity.

As with all Tim Green's books, you go on a journey into the darkness of human souls, yet always see a spark of goodness shinning through at the most unexpected moments. There is no doubt that there is good and evil.

The Kite Runner ~ Khaled Hosseini

2008-10-18T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hosseini

This is one of the best fiction books I have ever read. Khaled Hosseini takes us into the culture, life and war in the troubled land of Afghanistan. It gives a deep insight into the tribal culture, the quality of life, the difficulty the Taliban created.

The narrator tells the story of his childhood and the servant's boy that he shared it with. With continual warfare, his family immigrates and eventually arrives in the United States. He is educated and marries and has a life that Afghans can only dream of. Yet, he is still haunted by a childhood lie he told which caused a severe beating and exile for his childhood friend. He goes on a quest to right this wrong and finds a world that even he can not understand.

It is an intense tale of two friends, their opposite lives and the struggles in this war torn land.

It also tells of the tradition of kite flying and the importance of it in the community. It is a theme that goes throughout the book and becomes the symbol of hope for the future.

Iraq: Providing Hope ~ Eric Holmes

2008-10-17T00:02:00.000-07:00

Iraq: Providing Hope
by Eric Holmes

I stumbled upon this book recently and was delighted when I read it. It is a compilation of 54 people who were in Iraq as soldiers, contractors or from the Iraqis themselves. It presents a view of our efforts in Iraq quite differently than anything you have ever seen in the Media. These are the stories that make the history real.

From the website:

"This is not about the generals, journalists or politicians. This is about the everyday Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, governent employees, aid workers and Iraqis. Seen through their eyes, here are their stories of fear, courage, bravery, anxiety and, most of all, hope. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines have been bravely combating danger, living in miserable conditions and doing a great job. The bottom line is that we, as a nation, have freed twenty-five million people from a murderous dictator and have embarked on a plan to provide them a new beginning with a new constitution that protects human rights and provides hope."

Book Excerpts:

“There is no kind of job satisfaction then when a child hands you a bundle of flowers and thanks you freeing his country. Nothing I have done in my life outside of the Army can compare to having that kind of impact on someone’s life. Not politics and not business. So, I guess it is worth the sacrifice and pain." -Fred Wellman

“Although I was not surprised, I was humbled by the fact that a man with no right hand drove standard better than I could. I had learned early on during my time in Iraq that its people are intelligent and resourceful. I saw the evening’s events as another step toward progress in Iraq, a blending of resources and talents to accomplish a common goal. But more importantly, I saw an Iraqi, overcoming the scars left by years of tyranny, taking the driver’s seat toward his own destiny." -Anne Trenolene

Reading this book was a wonderful ride of all of the emotions. The realities of Iraq became more real for me than any other source, save the letters from soldiers, has done. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in what is happening in Iraq.

The World is Your Litter Box ~ Quasi ~ Steve Fisher

2008-10-16T00:02:00.000-07:00

The World is Your Litter Box

by Quasi

Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
Hard cover, 112 pages
$9.95 $11.95 (Canada)
ISBN-10 1402752962
ISBN-13 978-1402752964

This is a delightful book, written by a cat, Quasi, on the care and feeding of the feline in your life. For those of us who love cats, this is not only informative, but incredibly, laugh-out-loud funny!

Quasi teaches cats how to do and get anything they want (not that I am sure that my cats need any instructions on this!)

Quasi's basic philosophy centers on the first chapter, "How to Look Cute". Once a cat has mastered that, all things are possible - 'How to Get Your Human to Buy Your Favorite Food', 'How to Get Your Humans to Sing and Act Like Complete Idiots', 'How to Annoy Humans with Allergies', '20 Good Places to Hide', to name a few of the delightful chapters. Quasi has definately figured out how to have the good life with his humans and is not shy about sharing his tips and tricks!

I found myself reading portions aloud to share the delightful wit.

Anyone who loves cats, will be delighted with this book!

(Book received as a free preview copy)

The Sassamon Circle ~ Louis Garafalo

2008-10-15T00:02:00.000-07:00

Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (April 19, 2008)
ISBN-10: 143272066X
ISBN-13: 978-1432720667

The Sassamon Circle is historical fiction based on the mysterious death of the Indian John Sassamon. Sassamon was a Wompanoag who lived in Massachusetts and died in January 1675. A 'Praying Indian', Sassamon was able to communicate in English and native dialects which allowed him to function in cultures that were distinctly different from one another.

This story takes place during the period fifty years after the arrival of the Pilgrims. The death of Sassamon and the ensuing trial, leads to a collison of culture and a war. It delves into the tensions between the cultures that eventually led to King Phillip's War.

Mr Garafalo paints an amazing picture of the times and the culture - allowing you to picture the buildings, the clothing and the environment of the story. The story revolves around a fictional English family and a fictional Wompanoag family in the lead up to a war that was devastating to both sides in the conflict. He develops characters that are easy to relate to and understand and gives you a sense of the thoughts of both the English and the Indians.

This is a period of history that is not taught and is difficult to find in history books. Mr Garafalo has done us the gift of handing us a part of our history that we did not know about. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the early history of the country.

On a personal note, Mr Garafalo and I both share a relative with a very odd name. It was strange to see it in print....

(Book received as a free preview copy)

Eight Lives Down ~ Chris Hunter

2008-10-14T00:02:00.000-07:00

Eight Lives Down

The Story of the World's Most Dangerous Job

in the World's Most Dangerous Place

By Chris Hunter

Eight Lives Down is the story of a British bomb disposal expert, Major Chris Hunter, and his tour in Basra, Iraq. Major Hunter captures you in the first chapter and you know that this is a journey you will take with him - no matter how frightening or sad. It is a journey with true heroes and not for the faint of heart.

The journey with Major Hunter and his team tells of the bombers that infested Iraq - the bombs, the materials, the forensics and the dismantlement of them. I was hesitant to read it at first, knowing how many have lost their lives to the vile IEDs and their various forms (including my friend SGT James Craig). But, I know that those who defuse these bombs have a story that is rarely told and a much higher rate of saved lives than lost lives.

I ended up in awe of the men in this profession. The precision and concentration with which they work is awe inspiring. The detail of knowledge that they must have is impressive, and major Hunter tells of the challenging school he had to attend to do his job. As the team becomes more successful, a price is put on his head. Camera crews show up at incidents to film him and the team hoping to capture images of things going badly. We learn about the forensics - the parts made in Iran, the style of the Chechen's or the IRA or others.

We are allowed a glimpse into the family that the team becomes - the shared laughter and sorrow. Although, I must admit that I did not understand all of the British slang, I did understand the meaning!

We have had some remarkable books come out of the Great War on Terror: Lone Survivor, Rule Number Two, On Call in Hell, My Men are My Heroes. This is definitely another one. It is an intense, but great read. It is well written, and you may find yourself holding your breath in parts of it. It flows as if a story is being told aloud, holding your attention through each sentence. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand a part of the story on the ground in Iraq.

To Major Hunter and his team - Thank you - thank you so much for your service, your bravery, and your dedication. The world is a better place because of all of you and I am so grateful.

About the Author: CHRIS HUNTER joined the British Army in 1989 at sixteen. He was commissioned from Sandhurst at twenty-one and later qualified as a counter terrorist bomb disposal operator. He retired in March 2007 from the Defence Intelligence Staff, where he was the Ministry of Defence's senior IED intelligence analyst. He is a former chairman of the Technical Committee of the Institute of Explosives Engineers and continues to serve as a counter terrorism consultant. He works regularly with US military and law enforcement personnel, including a member of government agencies and the US Special Forces. He has served on numerous operations in the Balkans, East Africa, Northern Ireland, Colombia, and Afghanistan and was awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal for his actions during his tour in Iraq.

(This book was received as a free preview copy.)

Signed, Mata Hari ~ Yannick Murphy

2008-10-13T00:02:00.000-07:00

Signed, Mata Hari

by Yannick Murphy

ISBN-10: 031611264X
ISBN-13: 978-0316112642

I have always had a fascination with spies, especially women spies of the 20th century. I have always been fascinated by Mata Hari - the Dutch woman Margaretha Zelle, an exotic dancer who was accused of being a double agent in world War I. Perhaps my fascination dates back to watching Greta Garbo in the 1931 movie.

This book is historical fiction. It centers on the prison cell of Margaretha Zelle and the stories she tells her jailers hoping to lenghten her life. In a strangely erotic story, she tells us her life story: the troubled childhood, the cruel husband, the life in India (which was quite fascinating), the lost children, the exotic dancing, and her time in prison.

The book is written with the unique perspective of an imprisioned woman. The imagry is ugly and beautiful - haunting in the details. It is one of the more disturbing books I have read, yet I am glad that I read it.

(Book received as a free preview copy)

The Friday Night Knitting Club ~ Kate Jacobs

2008-10-12T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Friday Night Knitting Club

by Kate Jacobs

At Walker & Daughter, Georgia, a single mother runs a knitting shop - a business she started with help of a benefactor and new friend. As the years go by, the shop succeeds and her daughter grows into a young woman, A Club forms on Friday nights where her customers gather to knit and help one another and talk. The Club becomes a place of more than knitting, as the women talk about life, love and projects. Deep friendships grow.

Unexpectedly, Georgia's life changes drastically as two estranged people re-enter her life - her best friend in school and the father of her daughter. At the same time, life's changes come to the regular members of the Club and love, divorce, marriage, birth and death visit the members.

Through the trials, tribulations, joys and love, the members always have knitting to tie them together - the love of the yarn, the stitches and the process knit them together.

The attraction of this book is the imperfections of the characters who draw you into their world. Somehow, they make you feel a part of them. As the plot reels to its predictable ending, you are, nonetheless, delighted you took the journey.

This is a very enjoyable read. The characters are rich and believeable and the plot as varied as life's changes make it.

Everyday Cat Excuses ~ Molly Brandenburg

2008-10-11T00:02:00.000-07:00

Everyday Cat Excuses

Written & Illustrated by Molly Brandenburg

64 pages ISBN: 1-4027-5903-7 ISBN13: 9781402759031

$7.95 US $8.95 Canadian Hardcover with Jacket

b/w illus. throughout 7 1/4 X 6

This is a joyful book for cat lovers everywhere. No cat lover will be able to resist laughing out loud as they recognize their own beloved felines in the pages. It is a delightful book.

It is artfully illustrated with primitive cats that convey the messages of the cats!

Of course, we would have liked for it to be longer and spent quite some time coming up with additional cat excuses! Everyone should visit the web site and read about the cats who were the inspiration for the story - http://www.everydaycatexcuses.com/about.html

Everyday Cat Excuses is a great gift for the feline lover (or yourself)!!!

(Book received as a free preview copy)

My Grandfather's Son ~ Clarence Thomas

2008-10-10T00:02:00.000-07:00

My Grandfather's Son

By Clarence Thomas

This memoir by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is the long awaited story of the life of a most remarkable man. The story of Clarence Thomas is the story of the American dream fulfilled - a young man who barely spoke English rises to one of the most important people in the nation.

His trajectory to importance began with his life lived with his Grandfather, who taught his strict work ethic and value system to Clarence and his brother. Life was not easy, but the stories that Justice Thomas shares speak of family and love and value.

This is an emotional and spiritual journey. Justice Thomas allows us a vision of a life well lived and the trials that go along with it. It also presents a very different view of the confirmation hearings than have ever been heard before.

Best of all, it is written like a magnificent novel - each page alive with the stories of people you would be honored to know.

This is a must read book!

Rule Number Two ~ Dr. Heidi Squier Kraft

2008-10-09T00:02:00.000-07:00

Rule Number Two

Lessons I Learned in a Combat Hospital

Dr. Heidi Squier Kraft (LCmdr, Ret)

There are two rules of war.
Rule number one is that young men die.
Rule number two is that doctors can't change rule number one.
--M*A*S*H: TV show

One of the remarkable things happening in today's military and today's war zones is the phenomenal writing that is occurring from the front lines in the form of blogs and books. Today, we are brought closer to the thoughts and feelings and experiences of our military through the written word, and they do it so well. Anyone wanting to know more about the War on Terror and our military has access to the information.

Rule Number Two is a collection of the experiences of Navy Lieutenant Commander Heidi Kraft during her deployment as a clinical psychologist with a Marine Corps Surgical Unit in Al Asad, Iraq. Dr. Kraft shares with us the stories of the damages of war and the amazing stories of repair of the spirit and the body. She also shares her longing for home and her 15 month old twins, jutaposing her life in Iraq with her family at home. There are stories that will make your heart soar, make you laugh out loud and make you cry. There is an especially gruesome story of her smallpox vaccination and one about camel spiders that are unforgetable!

Dr. Kraft allows us to share her laughter, her tears, her joys and her fears. This is a wonderfully readable book, and difficult to put down, as Dr Kraft weaves us into her stories. We meet the Marines, the Navy Corpsmen, the Navy doctors, nurses, technicians and the Marine working dogs.

Some of the most vivid stories are those of Cpl Jason Dunham. When Cpl Dunham was wounded, Dr Kraft was one of the people who sat and held his hand and talked to him. Cpl Dunham, who died later from his wounds, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his courage and bravery and sacrifice that day when he threw himself on a grenade to save his men. In later chapters, Dr Kraft shares the story of his passing and the story of his mother's, Deb Dunham, letter to Dr. Kraft to thank her for holding Jason's hand and caring for him. They are stories that will touch your heart.

One of the greatest gifts of this book is the peek into the medical care provided to our warriors - the love, care and respect they are given. This is a remarkable book and I recommend it to anyone interested in life in a war zone and in a hospital in a war zone.

Dr Kraft is donating 10% of the profits to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund.

(Book received as a free preview copy)

Duty ~ Bob Greene

2008-10-08T00:02:00.000-07:00

In honor of the passing of Paul Tibbets on November 1, 2007, I immediately went back to the book written by Bob Green - Duty: A Father, His Son, and the Man Who Won the War.

Bob Greene made a trip home to be with his dying father. Living quietly, almost anoymously, in the same town was Paul Tibbets - the man who flew the Enola Gay and dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, leading to the end of World War II.

Bob Greene was able to meet Paul Tibbets and to spend time with him. Through Paul Tibbets, Bob Greene learned about the ingrained sense of honor and duty he always saw in this father and in the ordinary heroes of the time of World War II.

This is a deeply personal journey, and one that is easy to embrace.

If you know any one from the WWII generation, this is a journey you should take. I intend to reread it now in honor of Paul Tibbets and all of the WWII vets.

More about Paul Tibbets and the Enola Gay:
http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/11/hero-to-remember-brigadier-general-paul.html

Madeleine L'Engle

2008-10-06T00:02:00.000-07:00

Madeleine L'Engle

November 29, 1918 - September 6, 2007

As a lifelong bibliophile, I still have a collection of books that I adored as a child. Madeleine L'Engle time series was one of my favorites. It was also the first science fiction/fantasy that I read. I always loved the time books - A Wrinkle in Time, A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, and An Acceptable Time.

Later in my life, I rediscovered Madeleine L'Engle as a writer for adults and a Christian writer. She wrote fiction and non-fiction. One of my favorites is Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art. A prolific writer of over 60 books, she brought great joy to many readers across the age spectrum.

When I learned of her death, I picked up my long loved copy of A Wrinkle in Time and rediscovered the joy she had given me so very long ago.

Farewell, Madeleine L'Engle. Thank you for the journeys!

http://www.madeleinelengle.com/

Circle of Quilters ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-05T00:02:00.000-07:00

Circle of Quilters

by Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 074326021X

Book 9 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

As life takes some of the Elm Creek Quilters in different directions, there are openings for instuctors at Camp. We meet the applicants and suffer through their decisions, the assembly of their applications and their interviews.

The new characters are warm and likable, sad and hopeless, and joyful and creative. There histories merge into the circle of quilting and the bonds of creativity and friendship.

Some of the stories are obvious, but you find yourself rooting for the outcome, and welcome them into the Elm Creek Quilters.

I have never been sorry that I picked up the first book in this series in a remainder bin. I still don't quilt, but I do hand work and understand the bonding and relationships between people who share a passion. I get great joy from these books and the characters that are pleasantly all too human.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice

Book 2 - Round Robin

Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters

Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy

Book 6 - The Master Quilter

Book 7 - The Sugar Camp Quilt

Book 8 - The Christmas Quilt

The Christmas Quilt ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Christmas Quilt

by Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 0739458817

Book 8 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

This volume takes us back to the relationship between Sylvia and Sarah. Finding the blocks for an unfinshed quilt stuffed in the Christmas decorations, leads to Elm Creek Manor stories from the antebellum era, through the Great Depression and World War II, to the present. All of the quilt blocks are stories of their creators and their times.

As Sylvia and Sarah explore the foundations of the Christmas traditions of Elm Creek Manor, they find that though our traditions may differ, our memories are all about family and friends and the simple virtues of joy and hope buoyed by the spirit of giving.

I especially enjoyed this volume in the series. The presentation of our Christmases and the memories they evoke went from bitter-sweet to joy to sorrow to humorous to contemplative. It was reflective of the many Christmases we have all experienced.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin
Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters
Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy

Book 6 - The Master Quilter
Book 7 - The Sugar Camp Quilt

The Sugar Camp Quilt ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

The Sugar Camp Quilt

by Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 0743260198

Book 7 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

The book in the series takes us into the world of Creek's Crossing, Pennsylvania prior to the Civil War, with friends and neighbors taking sides in the abolitionist debate.

Dorothea, a young lady in the midst of the arguments and her tormented family life, learns wisdom beyond her years over a quilt she makes. She finds herself in the midst of the Underground Railroad and learns lessons of friendship and honor along the way.

This book is riveting from beginning to end, and provides a view of the times that is valuable in understanding it.The author, again, creates characters that are quite real - loveable, yet flawed. Her descriptions of the way of life in the mid-1800's are realistic and give you a sense of the work required to live in the times.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin
Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters
Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy

Book 6 - The Master Quilter

The Master Quilter ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Master Quilter

By Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 0452284686

Book 6 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

Sylvia quietly plans her wedding without her friends knowledge. When her friends discover her secret, they begin one of their own. Her friends wish to honor Sylvia and Andrew with yet another surprise - a wedding quilt. They contact former Elm Creek Quilt Campers to get the 140 squares needed for the quilt. They wait in secretive anticipation for the sqaures to arrive so that they can assemble the quilt.

The secrecy is deeper than the topic of the quilt and the secrets in the lives of these friends threaten to tear apart the unity and friendship that they have so enjoyed. They once again relearn the lessons that we all need to be reminded of - honestly, loyalty and friendship.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin
Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters
Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

Book 5 - The Quilter's Legacy

The Quilter's Legacy ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-10-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

The Quilter's Legacy

By Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 0452284678

Book 5 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

The continued interweaving of history, quilting, families and friends continues in this volume.

Sylvia begins a search for her Mother's quilts - quilts sold by her sister decades before. In searching for the quilts she uncovers more of the family history, including the flu epidemic of 1918. Her search leads her on a cross-country journey with the man she has come to love and wishes to marry.

While the search was begun to find the quilts, what Sylvia finds is the history of her Mother's life that she knew little of. She also learns that love is not impossible despite her age, though others acceptance of it might be more challenging, just as it was for her mother.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin
Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters
Book 4 - The Runaway Quilt

The Runaway Quilt ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-09-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Runaway Quilt

Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN: 0452283981
Book #4 in the Elm Creek Quilt Series

This volume in the series finds Sylvia going through the attic and finding antique quilts and journal of her ancestor, Gerda, which describes the Civil War ear and the family's role in the Underground Railway and the use of quilts to that end.

In this volume, we learn a great deal about the history of the family and Elm Creek Manor and the heritage of quilts throughout the country. The trip along the Underground Railroad will long be remembered by readers.

This is a fascinating look at a little known chapter in history.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin
Book 3 - The Cross-Country Quilters

The Cross Country Quilters ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-09-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

The Cross Country Quilters
by Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 0452283086

3rd in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

Elm Creek Quilts Camp is in full swing. Quilters come from across the country to take classed, seek inspiration and joy in their craft and to make new friends. The art of quilting unites people who would never meet otherwise.

Five quilters who attend camp decide to make a challenge quilt; each will design blocks that represent their lives and goals and share them when they reunite at Camp the next year.

As we follow them through the year, what keeps them going through the trials of life is the friendship that is interwoven in the stitches of their quilts and the promises they made one another before they stitched their quilts.

While I do not quilt, I am a handspinner and knitter and our get togethers hold a special charm and wealth of creativity that craftsmen will share. These charms make new acquaintances fast friends.

Book 1 - A Quilter's Apprentice
Book 2 - Round Robin

Round Robin ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-09-23T00:02:00.000-07:00

Round Robin by Jennifer Chiaverini

ISBN-10: 0452282276

2 in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

A Round Robin Quilt is one that is handed around to several quilters who each add to the craft and the design and the theme, interweaving their ideas and lives into one creation.

Elm Creek Manor has become a haven for quilters and a school to teach quilting. A group of friends, the Elm Creek Quilters, has started a Camp for quilters. The Elm Creek Quilters have decided to create a quilt for Sylvia. As the quilt is passed from quilter to quilter, their stories and the history of Elm Creek Manor continue to evolve.

Once again, we meet very real women who are united by their love of quilting and allow that love to overcome their vast differences.

"..a continuing tale of friendship and loyalty in which quilting is a bountiful metaphor for the way we stitch our lives together, piece by imperfect piece."

Book 1 in the series A Quilter's Apprentice.

The Quilter's Apprentice ~ Jennifer Chiaverini

2008-09-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Quilter's Apprentice

Jennifer Chiaverini

1st Book in the Elm Creek Quilts Series

ISBN 0452281725

I picked up this book from the remainders bin several years ago. Little did I know that I would be embarking on a journey that still continues. I am not a quilter, though I admire those who are. As a spinner and knitter, I understand the tactile pleasure and the creative expression. So, my interest was in the story of people who shared this love.

A Quilter's Apprentice begins the journey of Sarah McClure and her husband. Moving to a new town, Sarah finds herself without a job and with few prospects. She takes a job with Sylvia Compson, a seventy-five year old who is sorting through the family home from which she was long estranged, for eventual sale. Sylvia is bitter and lonely. Sarah is desperately unhappy. Sarah trades some of her salary for quilting lessons from Sylvia.

Sylvia slowly confides the history of Elm Creek Manor and the tribulations of World War II that tore the family apart with tragedy, betrayal and jealousy. Sarah comes to terms with the uncomfortable truths about her own family.

Through the sorting of the house and the quilting lessons, a bond of friendship and trust develops between the two women, who came to the relationship with little in common. As they both learn to forgive themselves and to live life forwards, rather than backwards, joy enters their lives, which are now changed forever.

The characters are strong women with likable traits and vivid flaws. They are people we know. We share their pains and sorrows and we celebrate their victories.

This series can be read out of order, but it is more enjoyable to read in order, as the characters develop and change.

On Call in Hell ~ CDR Richard Jadick

2008-09-21T00:05:00.000-07:00

On Call in Hell

CDR Richard Jadick

This book about the Second Battle of Fallujah and the Doctor and Corpsmen on the front lines who tended the wounded is one of the most intense reads I have had in some time.

Lt CDM Richard Jadick volunteered to accompany the 1/8 Marines on their Iraq Tour in 2004. When the Second Battle of Fallujah began, Jadick decided to take his emergency room to the battle, rather than waiting for the wounded to come to the hospital in the rear. He set up a Forward Aid Station - FAS - that became a make-shift operating room.

In this book, after his auto-biographical history, Jadick takes you into the heart of the battle. He takes you into the personalities and spirits of the Corpsmen and National Guard ambulance drivers who worked with him and the wounded Marines and Soldiers he treated and lost.

Lt CDM Jadick was awarded the Bronze Star with a V for Valor for his work. He considers it a group award and credits his Corpsmen and others with the successes they had. His citation credits him with saving 30 men who would not have survived the trip back to the base hospital.

This book may be as close as many of us ever get to combat. It was an experience of many emotions - fear, terror, intensity, sorrow and joy. It is all too human. And, it is a great read, though you will need tissue in certain parts.

To see CDR Jadick on Jon Stewart - http://www.comedycentral.com/sitewide/media_player/play.jhtml?itemId=83308
To read the Newsweek Article - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11787394/site/newsweek/

The medical staff of the Second Battle of Fallujah deserves to be mentioned by name for their heroic actions. I am proud to live in a country that produces fine young men like these. Their actions were heroic.

II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF)
First Battalion, Eighth Marines (1/8)
1/8 Infantry Battalion Medical Personnel

Headquarters and Service Company (HSS)
Battalion Surgeon, Lt Cmdr, Richard H Jadick
Assitant Battalion Surgeon, Lt Carlos C Kennedy
HMC Russell W Folley
HM1 Richard E Lees
HM1 Bryan P Zimmerman
HM2 Shawn J Johns
HM2 Steve Meszaros
HM3 Jobraith Burn
HM3 Martin Graves
HM3 Clifton H Hinds
HM3 Ryan D Hirkala
HM3 David Lester
HM3 David McArdle
HM3 Jason M Smith
HN Uriel Garcia
HN Raymond Masino
HN Roger D Millhouse
HN Ricky J Peterson
HN John Paul Rosales
HN Collin Steadman
HN Justin Troyano
HA Ernesto Argueta
HA Daniel S Avila

Alpha Company ~ Avenger
HM3 Casey T Moody
HM3 Reinaldo Aponte, Jr
HM3 Manuel G Cortez
HM3 Duncan Fraser
HM3 Ryan Turner
HN Jorda Hotlschulte
HN Julian C Mask

Bravo Company ~ Beowulf
HM3 Kevin M Markley
HM3 Jeff M Gregus
HM3 Milton L Jones
HM3 Lucas Q Jushinski
HM3 Luis E RuizPopo
HN Rex A Goodman
HN Joel Lambotte

Charlie Company ~ Cajun
HM3 Aaron Pines
HM3 Raul M Cervantes
HM3 Anthony Lopez
HM3 Michael C Martinez
HM3 David Nadermann
HN Luis Lopez
HN Ether Maldonado
HN Randall McLain
HN Barry L Womack

Weapons Company ~ Wolverine
HM3 Thomas J Stahura
HM2 Justin B Sutton
HM3 Christian Rueda
HN Joel E Dupuis
HN Joseph Maston
HN Kouji Touya

HMC - Chief Hospital Corpsman
HM1 - Hospital Corpsman First Class
HM2 - Hospital Corpsman Second Class
HM3 - Hospital Corpsman Third Class
HN - Hospitalman
HA - Hospitalman Apprentice

The Corpsmen and Doctors on the ground with the Marine Corps are in the Navy.

Exile by Richard North Patterson

2008-09-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

EXILE by Richard North Patterson

Richard North Patterson is one of my favorite fiction authors and his books always promise a good read. His newest book, EXILE, was a little daunting and I was glad I didn't pay for it by the pound! But, it was such a great read that I barely put it down.

When a terrorist cell attacks a convoy in San Francisco and murders the Prime Minister of Israel, we are thrown into the world of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Patterson takes us to Israel and the Palestine territories. He tells the stories of both sides of the conflict. His intense research into the areas makes clear the realities of phrases that we have all heard: suicide bombers, occupation, check points, settlements, the right of return, religious fanatics on both sides, honor killings. It is a fascinating journey into the lethal politics of the region.

It also has the stuff of great novels - a love story, the trial of the century, deception, murder and intrigue.

I enjoyed the story immensely, but I was fascinated by the history lesson that went with it. And, I feel I have gained some insight into the conflict that seems to have no resolution in this tiny corner of the world that affects the globe.

I strongly recommend this book.

Divorcing Dwayne ~ J L Miles

2008-09-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

Divorcing Dwayne

J L Miles

1-58185-650-0

Cumberland House Publishing

Divorcing Dwayne is the first book in an upcoming trilogy about the life of Francine Harper and the man in her life - Dwayne. Francine has chosen the man who made her father roll his eyes and her mother proclaim he "wasn't worth loosing her pants over."

Francine's life unfolds with the consequences of bad decisions - the primary one is Dwayne, and all of the secondary ones revolve around him, too - the jail time, the murder trial, driving the bulldozer into the mini mall, getting a role in a movie and being chased by the mob.

Francine, with the help of her best friend, Ray Ann, lives her life in living color in the small town of Pickville Springs, Georgia. One can say that Francine never had a crazy thought go unfulfilled, as she races through her days.

As Francine said, "Well, gee, Ray Anne, my husband's been cheating on me, I have reason to believe he's a hit man for the Mafia, and now he's doing the soundrack for some Hollywood movie! .... I feel like I've been asked to join a parade and told to march behind the elephants."

This book is laugh out-loud funny. It is a definate must read for any woman who can look back on her life and question some of those decisions made in her youth (that would be all of us - right?).

J L Miles has a gift of story telling. This is a delightful book - funny, poignant, real. I am looking forward to the next two books - Dear Dwayne and Dating Dwayne.

(Book received as a free preview copy)

Standing in the Rainbow ~ Fannie Flagg

2008-09-18T00:02:00.000-07:00

Fannie Flagg is a craftsman with words. She paints pictures of people and places that embed themselves into your heart. Anyone who delights in the stories of families, will find characters that resemble someone they knew and loved. Sitting down to read a Fannie Flagg novel is like spending an evening with your favorite memories, only they are all new ones.

Standing in the Rainbow follows the people and the small town in Missouri from post WWII to the present. There are tears and laughter, joy and sorrow in the days of these all so knowable characters. The book is a journey through life - the searching, the finding, the achieving, the losing. But, Fannie Flagg always shows us the hope and joy that is in our hearts through the journey.

While I was reading this book, I found that I read much of it aloud at the dinner table. The stories were ones we could all relate to and delight in.

I've never read anything by Fannie Flagg that I didn't enjoy. She has the ability to paint wonderful pictures of our country and its stories and people. I just finished Standing in the Rainbow. So much of what she writes I can relate to and feel she is speaking from my heart. At the end of this book is a passage that is particularly wonderful...

"The world he had known was gone. Not only was he living in an alien place, but while he had been busy all these years making a living, someone had changed all the rules. For all he knew, he might as well have gone to sleep and awakened on the moon.

When he'd grown up, everybody had more or less agreed to a certain way of living. A certain standard. You didn't lie, you didn't cheat or steal, you honored your parents, your word was your bond. You didn't try to weasel your way out of things. You married the girl. You paid your bills. You took care of your children. You didn't cuss around girls. You didn't hit women. You played by the rules and it was expected that you would be a good sport if you lost. You kept your house, yard, and yourself clean.

Norma said you have to just swing with it and try not to let it bother you so much. He wished he could but somehow it seemed this new world was easier for the women to accept and adjust to. What bothered him and other men his age and older was that the things they had been willing to die for were no longer appreciated. Everything he had believed in was now the butt of jokes made by a bunch of smarty-assed late-night-TV so-called comedians making a salary you could support a small country with. All he heard was people saying how bad we were, how corrupt we had been, and how terrible white men were. He had not felt like a bad person. But just the fact that he was a white man of a certain age, a lot of people he did not know hated him. He had never knowingly been mean of unfair to another human being in his life. Now is seems he was the oppressor, responsible for every bad thing that had ever happened in the history of the world. War, slavery, racism, sexism --- he was the enemy and all had tried to do was live a good and decent life. History was being rewritten by the minute. all of his childhood heroes were now being viewed as villains, their lives judged in hindsight by the current fad of political correctness. hell, now they were even taking Huckleberry Finn out of the libraries, for God's sake. It was all too confusing.

You never saw people anymore, everything was self-service, everybody behind glass windows. and you could not get a real person on the phone. Everywhere you called, a recorded message connected you to another recorded message and then hung up on you. and everybody was mad and screaming about something. He did not know which was worse, the radical right or the radical left. It seemed nobody was in the middle anymore. We used to be on the right track and then we took a wrong turn but he did not know where. Was it the dope or television? Was it having too much that did it? He had tried to read what the experts thought but they did not know any more than he did. All he knew for sure was that after the '40s and '50s when he had been raised, the world had flipped over like a giant pancake and everything was backward. When he was a kid everyone had wanted to be Tarzan; now they all want to be natives. People were sticking rings in the noses --- even pretty little girls were running around with green hair, their bodies pierce everywhere.

And nobody answered a direct question anymore with a simple yes or no. Everything was answered with some kind of rhetoric. And he knew far more than he wanted to know about perfect strangers. Things people used to be ashamed to talk about now sold books and got them on television. Murderers were being asked for their autographs and turned into celebrities. Football, basketball, and baseball players could beat up their wives, take drugs, go to jail, and still stay on the team and make millions. It didn't matter what kind of a person you were anymore. He remembered when a professional athlete was someone to look up to; now the sports page read more like a police blotter.

And never in a million years would he have dreamed that one day baseball players would be wearing earrings. Or that some girl would be singing on television in her brassiere. Life was all so different, with this one having two mommies and another on two daddies.

He did not know what to think anymore. The way it looked to him, the world was not getting better; it was getting worse. He sat there for about an hour and gazed out at the water, wondering where and when it was all going to end.

He leaned forward and rested his elbows on his knees and stared down at the sandy ground, as if looking for an answer. After a few minutes he noticed a tiny ant that walked underneath him, struggling to carry what looked like a large piece of potato chip. It was much too big for him to eat, but he was headed somewhere with it anyhow. He watched the ant as it kept going and banged into another concrete bench, went around it, crawling over rocks and other obstacles, determined to get back home with his treasure. It was much too big for him to carry, but he did not seem to know it.

He sat there and watched the ant struggle along until is was out of sight and he smiled for the first time in weeks. 'Who knows?' he thought. 'If he keeps going, the little son of a bitch might just make it.' "

The Blog of War ~ Matthew Burden

2008-09-17T00:11:00.000-07:00

Brought to us by Matthew Burden - http://www.blackfive.net/ - this book gives you multiple views of the troops in the Great War on Terror. Excerpts collected from many war-time blogs will make you laugh and cry. It will touch your heart in many ways and give you an insight into the nature of the fine young people who are serving our country today.

"The Blog of War provides an uncensored, intimate, authentic version of life in the war zone. Dozens of voices come together in a wartime choir that conveys better than any second-hand account possibly can what it is like to serve on the front lines." (Cover Notes)

It is a fast read, but one that you will want to revisit many times.

Some of the entries were from bloggers I followed, some were new to me. But, all were well-written and expressed a very personal view of their war. I recommend this book to everyone in America who has any interest in those who are defending this country and the realities of the war we are in.

Thank you, Matt, for an outstanding read.