Monday, March 31, 2008

March's Book Discussion

I hope you all had a good March and had a chance to read The Street Lawyer. I sure enjoy reading any of John Grisham's book. I like his, what I call, Lawyer's books the best since he used to be one. Of course the novels are fiction but he pretty much knows what he's talking about. Anyhow, here are some questions to think about.

What did you like about the story? Or if you liked the story?

Did you like the ending? How would you end the book?

Did any part of the book inspire you? Even a little bit?

Did the book change your opinion about lawyers? Would you ever be one?

Or just share your thoughts and feelings about the book or the author...

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Good book to read

I just finished such a good book. It's called In search of Eden by Linda Nichols. It's about a girl who was forced to give her newborn up for adoption when she was 15. It tells the story of her searching for this baby and in turn learns something about herself. I was crying, laughing, and enjoying the whole way through. It is told by a very devout Christian (not LDS). So there is alot of prayers, scripture references, and overal amens but they definitely add to the story line. Enjoy.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Book for April

Alright you closet Jane Austen fans, this is the book for you (and also the book I've chosen for April). It is called Austenland by Shannon Hall. A fun book that reflects a little bit of each of us. It's short and not too deep so it will allow you time to read other books of your choosing as well. Happy reading and we'll talk in April.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

A Tribute to Frank McCourt


Browsing through the books on CD at the library one day a long time ago I came across a familiar title, Angela's Ashes. I hadn't seen the movie but figured since it was made into a movie it must be pretty good. As I began listening during my daily commute I realized this book isn't just 'pretty good' it is the best book I have ever read (or listened to). Angela's Ashes is Frank McCourt's recount of his life growing up in Ireland--"A miserable childhood" which he points out in his opening statement.

Frank McCourt's Pulitzer Prize winning story is read in his own voice, which makes listening to it a beautiful cultural experience. He even sings! If you decide to read this book based on this blog entry, please listen to it instead. Again, the story is so much better when hearing his voice and inflection.

Frank McCourt has written two additional memoirs: 'Tis and Teacher Man. Both are wonderful. There is a part in 'Tis where I laughed so hard tears came. If anyone has ever tried teaching teenagers they will be able to relate wholeheartedly to Teacher Man--I read it when I was attempting to teach life skills to criminal teens at an alternative high school. He has also written a children's book, about Christmas, Angela and The Baby Jesus.

Frank McCourt's reflection of his life has made such a difference in my life. Though I cannot relate to the degree of suffering he has experienced, I can very much relate to his emotional experience and reaction to the irony, humor, and humanity of of the world. I am so grateful I picked up his book that day...

You can learn more about Frank McCourt a this website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_McCourt