Review: The House We Grew Up In

The House We Grew Up In by Lisa Jewell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this book very hard to put down. The story is compelling with quite a few "I didn't see that coming" moments. This is an excellent story; quite modern in the issues brought up; and I am looking forward to the book club's discussion. So glad it was chosen.

Hart Park Book Club November 17, 2016 - Joyce

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Review: Gracelin O'Malley

Gracelin O'Malley by Ann Moore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Enjoyed this story enough to read the 2nd in this trilogy.

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Review: America's First Daughter

America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As my 4 stars indicate, I really liked this book. The author put me right into the time frame of Thomas Jefferson. Written through the eyes of his daughter (who I sometimes liked and sometimes hated) I learned about life during and after the American and French revolutions. The early years of our country certainly had its growing pains. The historical elements were fascinating and the fiction believable. I think it is a great "discussion" book, but being 500+ pages I'm hesitant to recommend it to my book club. If you do read it, please share your thoughts as I'm interested in with others think.

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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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