Oh NOOOOO-Rachel Crow is Eliminated-Your opinion

This video speaks for itself.  What do you think?
Should Rachel Crow have been eliminated?
This performance was stellar. My heart breaks for her. Rachel it is not over...

YOU ARE A BRILLIANT SHINING STAR

Oh No, George! by Chris Haughton

Oh No, GEORGE!
by Chris Haughton
Candlewick Press
978-0-7636-5546-4
To be released 2012
$15.99/$18.00CAN






I received a surprise package from Candlewick Press today with the book Oh No, GEORGE.  I couldn't help but flip it open to read about the boldly colorful owl-eyed dog called George.  Harry, his owner goes out and George copes with numerous temptations that test his resolve.  As the author allows us to listen in on how George thinks, you just know trouble is inevitable.  Chris Haughton, hits the nail on the head with simple text, making this a perfect early reader and read aloud. With humor and perceptive expressions, the author captures the essence of George- a "wanabegood" pet who struggles with the ultimate test of will power.  Children will empathize with George's feelings,  when he gets into mischief.  A fun, lovable story for anyone who has tried to understand what goes on in their own pet's mind. This character should have a long life in the artful hands of Chris Haughton.

The copy of this book was furnished for free by the publisher. My review is my honest and unbiased point of view.

© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011]. 

A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES GIVEAWAY!!

Soon to be released in paperback!!

Penguin is due to release the enormous best-seller, A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES, by Deborah Harkness on December 27, 2011. If you haven't read this part historical fiction, part paranormal romance, you need to mark your calendar, or pre-order this compelling novel.  I became hooked from the beginning and now I am restless waiting for the sequel. 

Several posts back I summarized recent reads from my bookstand. One of my favorite books in that list was A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES, by Deborah Harkness.  The setting is Oxford University and below I have a clip with Harkness giving a walking tour of Oxford. The story centers around the characters of Diana Bishop, a researcher who descended from a brilliant notable ancestry of witches. She has known she has some unique sorcery capabilities, but has been in a cloud of denial her whole life. She calls up a book called Ashmole 782 from the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library with unexpected results. Her hands sense the power within the pages and quickly sends the book back to the ancient stacks. Matthew Clairmont has observed this from a distance, anything but an ordinary geneticist, he is a vampire with a long history with seemingly endless resources and a strong interest in Ashmole 782.  Matthew is only one of countless daemons, witches and vampires who covet the same book. Harkness speaks of their first date in the video. It is myth busting for Diana and provides a challenge to her as she must create a menu that will please a vampire.  She learns that his taste in fine wine is paramount to food, but that's about all. A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES is part of the ALL SOULS TRILOGY, SHADOW OF THE NIGHT due to be released in the summer 2012. 

Deborah Harkness-Walking Tour of Oxford

Book Giveaway Details

My readers will be thrilled to have the opportunity to win a copy of the the paperback edition of A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES that will be released by Penguin on December 27th. 

Contest runs from today through December 31st. 

To enter you must:

1. Leave your email address in code and follow my blog. 

2. Extra chance if you post on facebook and/or twitter, leave link. 

3. Extra chance if you blog about it, leave link. 

4. Leave a comment about the video, question for the author, or general comment about the book and contest. It's up to you. :)

5. Contest limited to participants in US and Canada.

Good Luck to all!

The Betrayal, Brides of Gabriel, by Diane Noble

THE BETRAYAL
Brides of Gabriel, Book 2
Diane Noble
HARPER COLLINS
978-0-06-198094-7
2011, 291 pages







I  was surprised to discover this was Christian Fiction and also book two in the Brides of Gabriel series.  I did not read book one, but the plot is easily picked up as the author recaps the details from book one. Nevertheless, the story is entertaining and full of drama as you can image there would be when one man is a husband with multiple wives in a polygamist community. This book in the series features Bronwyn who upon the death of her husband is wed to Gabriel MacKay. Her sister wife and friend is Mary Rose and the family is part of a caravan of Saints traveling to the promised land called Salt Lake Valley. The problem arises when an unspeakable secret is realized. The wives struggle with decisions that question the religious leaders, including their husband Gabriel. They are driven to make plans that are dangerous but critical for their survival.

Noble frames this second book around the Mormon faith, yet it could easily speak of any evangelical faith whose overzealous elders drive to convert and overpower the weak with strict compliance to rules that supersede true spirituality.

This book was given to me by Library Thing for Early Reviewers. My review is unbiased and my honest opinion.

© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2010].

© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

Across Many Mountains, A Memoir by Yangzom Brauen

ACROSS MANY MOUNTAINS
A Tibetan Family's Epic Journey from Oppression to Freedom
Yangzom Brauen
St. Martin's Press
978-0-312-60013-6
October, 2011-304 pp









 ACROSS MANY MOUNTAINS is the journey of three women, grandmother, mother and daughter from March 10, 1959, the day marked as Tibetan Uprising Day (considered the day when the Tibetan turmoil began).  This memoir is written from the point of view of the daughter, Yangzom Brauen.  It is a multigenerational approach that begins with the author’s grandmother and ends with her own story today. It is an astonishing narrative that provides the reader with the gripping history of her family, Tibet, Buddhism and the Dalai Lama. It is an eye opening read that delivers a message of determination, strength and understanding. As the Tibetan people and the government of China continue to clash, the Dalai Lama provides spiritual wisdom and hope from India.  The author skillfully assumes the persona of mother and grandmother to testify on their behalf. ACROSS MANY MOUNTAINS just might tempt the reader to pursue further reading about Tibet and Buddhism as it did for this reviewer. I applaud Yangzom Brauen for telling this remarkable family history.

This book was sent to me for review by Library Thing/  Early Reviewers.  My review is my candid and unbiased opinion of this memoir.


© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

The Christmas Giant, by Steve Light

The Christmas Giant
Written and Illustrated by Steve Light
978-0-7636-4692-0
Candlewick Press
2011





  

The Christmas Giant is a warm and fuzzy treasure.  Humphrey the giant and Leetree, his little elf companion are given the task to grow and deliver a tree to Santatown.  Steve Light captures the friendship, love and tenderness of this special Christmas story through his endearing illustrations and accompanying text. Sometimes allowing his pictures to tell the story, children, especially emergent readers will love this memorable story.  With a clever plan, the Giant and Leetree solve a difficult problem that leads to a spectacular ending. I plan to read this one to my kindergarten students this week and will let you know their reactions.  The illustrations are beautifully detailed using pen and ink with soft pastels. The reader will no doubt notice new things each time they read the story. Librarians, media specialists and teachers will want this one in their classroom collections. Themes of friendship and problem solving make this outstanding.

I read this book to the delight of my Kindergarten classes this week during Media Class time.
They fell in love with Leetree and Humphrey. The students really understood the friendship and sharing toward a common purpose that lifts off the pages. They couldn't wait to see what was in the box the two delivered to Santa. Thank you to Steve Light from all the kindergarteners at my elementary school.

I was sent a hardcover signed copy of this book as a gift from the author.  I want to thank Steve Light for this surprise gift won in a raffle. My review is my unbiased and honest opinion of this picture book.


© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

Catching Up-A Long Few Months

Thanksgiving Flowers from my cousin, Russ

After what seems like a long hiatus, I have summarized my last couple of months reading.  I have gathered this recap mainly for my own benefit. In the process, I hope perhaps one of more of these titles will attract your interest.  I doubt I will publish lengthy reviews on these, but my hope is to offer my brief, very brief comments.  These are books read over a period of time, a time of healing for me and deep self-reflection. With regrets, my writing has had to take a back seat to my health in order to focus on other priorities. With my ever shining optimism...I will pick up somewhere, regroup and begin to visit my blogger friend's posts soon.   I have missed my social network of bibliophiles and I hope everyone had a beautiful Thanksgiving. I did, and I know how very blessed I am. 

Yep, a purple poinsettia!!

August-November Books Read

53. Across Many Mountains, by Yangzom Brauen, A Memoir (A Tibetan Family's Epic Journey from Oppression to Freedom. (Library Thing Early Reviewer)

Across Many Mountains was an engrossing read about three women of different generations, mother, daughter and grandmother.  Many of you know how much I like to read about powerful and inspiring women. If you are that type of person, and want to learn a bit about Tibet and their struggle for freedom....this is a must read. I loved it!! So much so, I have been searching for more information and background about Tibet and China.  ~Wisteria Leigh

54. Catherine the Great, Non-Fiction, Portait of a Woman by Robert K. Massie, Random House, 978-0-679-45672-8. November 11, 2011 Release.

Another strong woman who came to life with Massie's magic. I am in awe of Catherine the Great and couldn't put this well written biography.  Her story is a fascinating read that unravels with unencumbered grace from beginning to end. Robert Massie is an amazingly talented writer. Anyone who loves history, particularly about famous women monarchs will enjoy this one. You might want to pick up an additional copy and give it this year to a biography reader in your life.~Wisteria Leigh 

55. Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, by Amy Chua, Penguin Press, Chinese American Biography, 978-1-59420-284-1. (Self-purchase)

This was great! The point of view of a mother who is driven to push her daughters to excellence and the consequences she must face and accept. This one surprised me. I was expecting something quite different.   As a teacher, I see the pressures put on many students, some can handle it, others can't. Naturally, all parents want the best for their children. So did Amy Chua. 

I enjoyed her journey of discovery when she realizes the fate of one daughter was sabotaged from the beginning.  I was anxious to read this for some time. Chua wrote a superb and honest reflection of her story. ~ Wisteria Leigh

56. A Discovery of Witches, by Deborah Harkness,  Viking Press (Penguin Group), 978-0-670-0-02241-0. (561 pages), First book in the All Souls trilogy. Love, love loved this one!!! (Vampires, Witches, Alchemy, Science and magic). Published 2011.

I will tell you, I loved this one so much, I can't wait for the second book. Refreshing and fun novel. Deborah Harkness created her own magic as my hands were velcroed to this book.  Really...I liked it better than Twilight. ~Wisteria Leigh

57. Conquistadora, by Esmeralda Santiago, 978-0-307-26832-7, Alfred A. Knopf, historical fiction, Puerto Rico 19th century, Women plantation owners, sugar plantations, slavery. (421 pages).

I must really love Spanish writers as I have noticed a pattern in my reading over the last few months. Whether the setting is Spain or some other Latin culture, or it is a translation from a work by a Spanish writer, I have enjoyed each one. I am a huge fan of Isabel Allende, and the writing of Esmeralda Santiago although much different, is impressive with an equally satisfying gift of story telling prowess. The courageous character Ana Larragoity Cubillas, is driven and self-reliant. The setting of Puerto Rico is close to me, as I lived in a small town outside San Juan as a child. Another strong female role placed this time in an engaging period of history that is seldom written about. Beautiful!! ~Wisteria Leigh
 

58. The Northside, by Nelson Johnson, 978-0-937548-73-8, Non-fiction, Atlantic City/African Americans.(358 pages), Plexus Publishing, Inc. (Historical Novels Review-self purchase).

A valuable and interesting history of the creation of Atlantic City. The author uncovers the "real history" and the blood, sweat and tears of the African Americans who migrated north to build a vacation destiny for rich whites. The story of how a small community known as Northside emerged as a result of another racial imbalance in history. Fascinating cover to cover. ~Wisteria Leigh

59. Midnight on Julia Street by Ciji Ware, 978-1-4022-2272-6, (512 pages), Sourcebooks, historical fiction. Release August 2011.

Review to appear in Historical Novels Review. A heads up...I adore Ciji Ware and Midnight on Julia Street is one of my favorite books of those I have read...and I have read many.  The sultry New Orleans setting with a story that offers intrigue and mystery when a downtown historic building is the center of a battle. In a town where everyone appears to be related, and everyone knows someone, the history of the condemned building will reveal secrets no one could have imagined. Ware at her quintessential best! ~Wisteria Leigh

60. The Betrayal, by Diane Noble, Brides of Gabriel Book 2, 978-0-06-198094-7, historical Fiction, 1842, Salt Lake Valley, Harper Collins (Avon), (290 pages). (Early Reviewer Library Thing).

An historical fiction drama about polygamy and the relationships of women who are sister wives is presented in this Brides of Gabriel book called The Betrayal. I was expecting a placid read of life in Salt Lake Valley, but Noble has other plans for her story.  It is not my favorite book in the list presented here, but it was a fun read.  To be fair, the subject matter does not interest me. Very straight forward and predictable.  This was just an average read for me, but I did finish it. ~Wisteria Leigh

61. Sleeping With the Enemy,  by Hal Vaughan, (Coco Chanel's Secret War), 978-0-307-59263-7. (282 pages),  Alfred A. Knopf, 2011. (Self purchase).

I looked forward to reading this book so much, I put aside others that I had been hoping to read next. The story of Coco Chanel and her life during World War II is presented by Hal Vaughan who claims to have exposed the reality of Coco Chanel and her collaboration with the enemy. 

Fascinating to read about Chanel and what Vaughan believes is truth. Read it and form your own conclusions. This one is well worth a look. ~Wisteria Leigh

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Recently released:St. Martin's Press; Reprint edition (September 14, 2010)


The publication booksellers turn to for news on the book industry is now publishing a version for book lovers! Shelf Awareness: Enlightenment for Readers is a FREE emailed newsletter with reviews on the 25 best books publishing each week along with author interviews, book excerpts, giveaways and more. Right now they’re running a contest for new subscribers. Check out the button on our website to sign up.

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 Author of Sarah's Key






© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu, illustrated by Erin McGuire

I came across this new book by Anne Ursu and wanted to share the recent release. (9/27/11).

My students love the idea of  fractured fairy tale.  I think the idea of how creative the author can be with an already published story is fascinating to them. This one looks great and I am anxious to read it myself. Take a look at the publisher's synopsis:

A stunning modern-day fairy tale from acclaimed author Anne Ursu

Once upon a time, Hazel and Jack were best friends. But that was before he stopped talking to her and disappeared into a forest with a mysterious woman made of ice. Now it's up to Hazel to go in after him. Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's "The Snow Queen," Breadcrumbs is a story of the struggle to hold on, and the things we leave behind.  Harper Collins

Anne Ursu Website

It's a rainy, dismal day in New England, but fortunately the weekend has a promise in our forecast for a welcome relief when a crisp chill of autumn sets in for a visit. Welcome back, Autumn!!!

© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2010].

© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

Three Summer Reads I Want to Share-The Magicians, The Northside and Conquistadora

I have not posted in quite a while and that is for a multiple of reasons. I have not been able to do a lot of writing and therefore wanted to recap for my blogger friends some interesting books that absorbed me this summer as I am recuperating.  Here are three books to start you off with many more I hope to summarize in the next week. Although my reviews are much abbreviated, I think you will gather my opinion in any case.  Thanks for understanding. Wisteria

The Magicians, by Lev Grossman
ISBN-10: 0670020559
416 Pages
Viking Adult; 1 edition (August 11, 2009)


The Magicians, by Lev Grossman,I was asked to read The Magician King, this books sequel that would publish in August, 2011. I had not read The Magicians and the publisher graciously sent it along as well.This is my idea of an adult version of a world like Narnia. The writing is totally different and the plot as well. A young adult engrossed in fantasy novels finds himself quite unexpectedly in an exclusive school for would be magicians. "The land of his childhood fantasies turns out to be much darker and more dangerous than he ever could have imagined...."(back cover).Fans of Harry Potter and Chronicles of Narnia will appreciate this adult fairy tale and will be awaiting the sequel The Magician King. Fortunately, both are available now in bookstores.

I am currently reading The Magician King, where the travels of Quentin and his friends continue.   If you love fantasy, this is a must read.

The copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher for review.  Above is my honest unbiased opinion. 

The Northside, by Nelson Johnson
978-0937548738
Plexus Publishers
November 2010
358 Pages

The Northside by Nelson Johnson, is a spectacular non-fiction book about the rise of Atlantic City. The focus is mainly on the contributions of African Americans in the mid-20th century as Atlantic City emerged from a small barren island.  I will be reviewing this for Historical Novels Review for the an upcoming issue. I will post a copy of that review once the magazine is published. In the mean time, this is a book any lover of American History will devour with earnest. I couldn't put it down. There is so much history pulled together in this narrative style that is shocking and Johnson is brilliant to document this time period with such skill.  In fact, before I had been sent the copy for review, I had already purchased my own copy after browsing in my local bookstore.  My extra copy is bound for a colleague who can't wait to get his hands on it. Nelson Johnson also wrote Boardwalk Empire, a book that is on my wish list for sure.

I purchased the copy of this book at Amazon.

Conquistadora, by Esmeralda Santiago
Knopf (July 12, 2011)
ISBN-13: 978-0307268327
432 Pages

Conquistadora, by Esmeralda Santiago is my top pick from my summer reading. It is a sensational historical fiction saga, based on Puerto Rican history and the clash between plantation owners and their slaves. It is also the story of an incredibly strong and rebellious woman named Ana, who has a fearless drive to succeed in life. She becomes a sugar plantation owner in Puerto Rico and despite growing rebellion, she is unyielding. This story takes the reader up to  the time of the Civil War.  The effects of what happened in the Southern States has far reaching implications in the Caribbean Islands and Ana is determined to secure her future.  I purchased this book to read as the history of Puerto Rico drew me to the story as well as the character of a strong woman who emerges to compete with men at a time that it was frowned upon.  I also lived in Puerto Rico when I was a child and attended Spanish schools. Although the memories of my past experiences are fading, I will always have the fondest memories and recall extremely happy times with my family. Puerto Rico introduced me to the language and culture and delicious fruits that were abundant then only there. Fortunately, we live in a time when guava, coconut, mango, papaya and other foods are no longer considered exotic. Read Conquistadora, you will succumb to Esmeralda Santiago's exquisite writing and fall in love with a beautiful story.


© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].


I purchased a copy of this book at Amazon.


© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

Review-Under Fire, by Margaret McLean

UNDER FIRE
Margaret McLean
A Forge Hardcover
978--0-7653-2814-4
Summer 2011
$24.99, Hardcover
400 pages

 Review by Wisteria

Readers of my blog know I don’t review too many thrillers/trial fiction. I have read many of John Grisham’s and Scott Turow's legal dramas with enthusiasm. I was really interested in reading  and reviewing UNDER FIRE for two reasons, one, the author is female and two, Margaret McLean was a practicing criminal prosecutor and  currently teaches law.  I'm glad I followed my sixth sense on this one because I read it in one day recently when the heat index was over 110 degrees. Talk about being under fire.

Amina Diallo is a Muslim Senegalese immigrant accused of burning down her home and market business. During an attempt to save her and her fifteen year old son Malick, a Boston firefighter is shot and killed. The last person who saw the victim alive is his partner Andy who recalls seeing Amina pointing a gun.   Amina is charged with murder and arson. Her case causes high profile attention and rapidly instills anger and hostility toward the accused. The murder of a firefighter in the line of duty has already pronounced her guilty in the eyes of the world.

Amina has retained Buddy Clancy, her somewhat eccentrically quirky, laid-back and seasoned defense lawyer. He has an affinity for colorful often purposeful bow-ties and he and his dog Rehnquist always wear a matched pair.  Buddy’s niece Sarah Lynch was a prosecuting attorney fighting the gangs. When tragedy impedes her ability to continue, she focuses on playing hockey, giving up law.  When her uncle Buddy ropes Sarah into agreeing to meet with Amina, just to talk, Sarah is reluctant. During the meeting, she learns something interesting about Amina, and suddenly realizes she believes in her innocence.  Sarah agrees to work with her uncle on the defense side of the court.

The plot is plausible and the writing easy going. The character of Buddy Clancy definitely steals the show or the trial scene anyway. He is in command at all times with witty quips and humor that often has him on the hot seat with Judge Killian. Nothing seems to phase the patient Buddy, and he is the antithesis of his aggressive and impatient niece Sarah. They make for a near perfect legal team and in my opinion the drama of the court trial is the most exciting. At the end, the author leaves room for what you think will be a sequel or series.

If you like trial quick paced puzzling criminal fiction, UNDER FIRE will deliver sharp trial banter.  Margaret McLean’s background is a huge benefit as she expresses her story with authenticity. UNDER OATH, her second novel is due out in April 2012, fortunately with the same amusing character Buddy Clancy and his dog Rehnquist.

Disclosure: I was sent  a copy of this book by the publisher at no cost.  My review is an honest reflection of my opinion.



© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].

Review-The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins

THE HUNGER GAMES
Suzanne Collins
Scholastic Press
978-0-439-02348-1
384 Pages, $19.99US/$19.99CAN

Review by Wisteria Leigh

 

I must be the last person to have read THE HUNGER GAMES, and so I will be brief with the summary. 

In future North America in a nation called Panem. It consists of twelve districts that surround the Capitol. After an attempted coup came the Dark Days. Originally there were thirteen districts. After the uprising one was decimated and the other twelve were held accountable by the Capitol city. In order to maintain order and firm control over the people they devised an annual competion called The Hunger Games. Once a year at the Reaping, a lottery was held in each district where one girl and one boy between the ages of twelve and eighteen were chosen to compete at the games. It was not a time to celebrate as these games were deadly. The youths were made to fight to the death in an arena televised to the entire country of Panem. It was for the entertainment of the leaders of the Capitol. There could only be one winner. 

You may think as I did that this book is gruesome and of no interest to me. Surprisingly, this is not true at all.  This book is wonderful. The characters are so well defined that despite the premise of the games, you will be a nail-biting spectator. You can't help but empathize with the sacrifice that a sister makes for her sibling. Disgust and loathing for the game organizers is natural and makes you shutter with disbelief.  The plot is highly engaging and will satisfy the most reluctant young reader. Adults and teachers will find lessons abound in this thriller.

It is forecast of the future, a dystopian society that offers a window through media entertainment with a first hand look at human nature, the good and bad. This book rivets you in place as you speed through the thrilling action provided by Suzanne Collins' remarkably original story. Fortunately, I have both CATCHING FIRE and MOCKINGJAY on my bookshelf. Don't miss your opportunity to read this one. You will love it!

 

Disclosure: The copy of this book was provided by Scholastic Press

© [Wisteria Leigh] and [Bookworm's Dinner], [2008-2011].