Review: Barkskins

Barkskins by Annie Proulx
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Don't remember what drew me to this novel. Perhaps the concept of a multi-generational story about early settlers and the indigenous people of Canada and New England. Probably the historical fiction element is the draw. I do enjoy learning about history. "Barkskins" is fiction as it relates to people; however historical and factual as it relates to the logging industry. The theme is strongly slanted towards the irreparable harm caused when European's came to the "new world" and changed the landscapes to make room for themselves and their growing families. Harm not only to the forests; but also to the American Indians and their way of life. Bottom line, while I did like this novel, I am cautious about recommending it due to its length of 700+ pages. It could be an interesting drama "series" in the future.

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Review: The Things We Wish Were True

The Things We Wish Were True by Marybeth Mayhew Whalen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A perfect book for when you want something to keep you occupied. It is not likely to win any literary awards; but I do see this as a future "book club" suggestion. You'll keep reading to see what happens next in this written "soap-opera". Try it - you'll like it! Also it is free for the month of August for Amazon prime members.

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Review: Everyone Brave is Forgiven

Everyone Brave is Forgiven by Chris Cleave
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Another WWII story, but this time in the eyes of the British. I enjoy the writing style as well as the characters. The first half of the book was so-so as far as the story of life in London during the war. The last half really brought the war to life; both in London and on the island of Malta. Quite disturbing to learn of the hardships and how much a human can withstand. War is hell.

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Review: The Wild Girl

The Wild Girl by Kate Forsyth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This Historical Fiction love story grabbed me. The writing provides vivid images of life in the time of Napoleon's reign in Europe. Life was such a struggle for most. This is the story of Dortchen Wild who lives next door to the young and handsome fair-tale scholar Wilhelm Grimm. The author weaves many "tales" throughout the novel. My only critique is the length - it could have been shorter without losing any of the magic.

Hart Park Bookclub September 15, 2016 - Karen

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Review: The Nazi Officer's Wife: How One Jewish Woman Survived the Holocaust

The Nazi Officer's Wife: How One Jewish Woman Survived the Holocaust by Edith Hahn Beer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just noticed this is available today as an Amazon E-Book for $1.99 if you're interested.

Never thought I'd like, or even bother reading another Holocaust book; however this nonfiction book was well worth my time. This story is told by a Jewish woman survivor who took numerous chances to hide her identity in order to survive. It provides background on ordinary people during extraordinary times. It reads much like an historical novel but knowing it is nonfiction gave it more credibility. This is a Hart Park Book Club selection to be discussed April, 2015.

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