July 6th "Master the Art of Reading" Drawing Winner and Other Books Reviewed

The winner of the Sip and Knit class, hand-dyed wool yarn, and bamboo knitting needles is...

Doris! She gave a Bravo to The Septembers of Shiraz by Dalia Sofer.

And the runners-up are….

Bravos:

Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton, reviewed by Doris.

Home by Marilynne Robinson, by Jean.

Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult, reviewed by Katie: “A love story and a story of motherhood – really good!”

Pictures at an Exhibition by Sara Houghteling, reviewed by Eliane: “Very good. It gives a very good impression of the art galleries in Paris and what happened during the war and afterward.”

Blue Boy by Rakesh Satyl, reviewed by Michele: “Growing up gay in an Indian family. Extraordinary!”

Rescuing Sprite by Mark Levin, reviewed by Michelle: An endearing story of a beloved pet named Sprite. Her powerful impact on the hearts of the family members who adopted her. So cherished and adored!”

Envy the Night by Michael Koryta, reviewed by P.A.: “Good, exciting read!”

Smoke Screen by Sandra Brown, reviewed by Joan: “I’ve read a lot of Sandra Brown’s books and always enjoy them.”

Shell Game: Reflections on Rowing by Stephen Kiesling, reviewed by Peter.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon, reviewed by Myrna: “Great insight into autism and a good surprise.”

Mounting Fears (Will Lee series, #7) by Stuart Woods, reviewed by J.: “Not as captivating as some of his other books, but a fast read for a summer day.”

The Amateur Marriage by AnneTyler, reviewed by Doris: “5 stars.”

My Stroke of Insight by Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph. D, reviewed by Doris: “”2 stars.”

Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber, reviewed by Michelle: “If you enjoyed the movie, “The Bucket List,” you will enjoy “Twenty Wishes.” I’m starting my own list!’

I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron, reviewed Michelle: “Anyone over 50 will enjoy the hilarity of life Nora Ephron shares in this book.”

The Soloist by Steve Lopez, reviewed by Jane: “This was a wonderful book. It really enlightens one on mental illness and shows a beautiful connection with friendship and music.”

Last Train to Paradise: Henry Flagler and the Spectacular Rise and Fall of the Railroad that Crossed an Ocean by Les Standiford, reviewed by Linda: “(3 stars) Wonderful, fascinating account of Flagler’s life and the horrific hurricane that struck the Keyes in 1935. I’m a native Floridian and I learned a lot about my state.”

Cold Case by Linda Barnes, reviewed by Katie: “I’m going to get more by Barnes – I love Carlotta!”

Finger Lickin’ Fifteen by Janet Evanovich, reviewed by Katie: “So much fun – I just love the dialogue!! I laugh out loud!!”

Dead or Alive by Michael McGarrity, reviewed by P. A.: “Action-packed, never a dull moment.”

Boca Knights by Steve M. Forman, reviewed by Barbara.

Still Life by Joy Fielding, reviewed by Barbara (a “9”, where 1 is the worst and 10 the best).

Boos:
Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley, reviewed by Yvette.

Shell Game: Reflections on Rowing by Stephen Kiesling, reviewed by Terri: “OK.”

A Dog About Town by J. F. Englert, reviewed by Michelle: “ I read the first 100 pages and it just didn’t capture me. A couple good dog books are: “A Dog Year” by Jon Katz (the irony), and “Marley and Me” by John Grogan.

Mixed Up With the Mob by Ginny Aiken, reviewed by Samina: “I never felt as if I wanted to find out what happens. I found it easy to put the book down which is nearly impossible when I am enjoying a piece of writing. It was OK, not exceptional.”

Dirty Laundry by Paula Woods, reviewed by Joanne: “Maybe just me, but neither the plot nor the characters held my interest.”