Winter Thrillers January 25th Prize Drawing

The winner of the January 25th Winter Thrillers drawing for a $20 gift certificate to Whole Foods Market is Doris, who recommends the book Born on a Blue Day by Daniel Tammet.
She writes, " This book is a fascinating autobiography of an autistic savant, Daniel Tammet. It is a look inside a rare and unique mind, where numbers are seen as shapes, colors, and textures, and foreign languages are learned in a week. The author tells of his difficulties in adapting to 'normal' society, and credits his family - their patience and love - with his ability to function independently."

And the "cheers" - books recommended by Maitland readers - were:

Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller, reviewed by Doris: "This is the memoir of Alexandra Fuller's childhood years in Africa during the 1970's chaotic post-colonial period. Beautifully-written, it captures the sounds, smells and culture of Africa, plus the foibles of her quirky family (alcoholic mother, stoic father, nagging sister). Africa, as seen thru the eyes of an English child, told with quiet and keen observation."

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Chaffer, reviewed by Doris:
"A charming novel of the life on Guernsey Island when it was occupied by the Nazis in WWII. Centered around the Literary Society on the island, their book discussions and taste in books, and how they coped with the hardships of the German occupation. Very interesting, both from a historical perspective and a human perspective."

The Traveler by John Katzenbach, reviewed by Katie.
The Analyst by John Katzenback, reviewed by Katie.
Wild Things by David Eggers, reviewed by Alice: "A new take on the Sendak children's book - an adult version - authored by Eggers, who wrote the screen play, currently showing. I'll recommend this book to my daughter-in-law, hoping she'll enjoy it with her 12-year-old son, Max!"

44 Scotland Street by Alexander McCall Smith, reviewed by Chris.
Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri, reviewed by Lori
Hiding in the Spotlight by Greg Dawson, reviewed by Betty.
Last Words by George Carlin, reviewed by Edward: "If you appreciated Carlin's mind, then you will enjoy reading this book, which explains how it was developed."

Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom, reviewed by Betsy: "Wonderful, uplifting tale comparing two people's lives and their personal discoveries."

The Narrows by Michael Connelly, reviewed by Gail.
The Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly, reviewed by Gail.
Ford County by John Grisham, reviewed by Gail.
Tripwire by Lee Child, reviewed by Gail.
The Soloist by Steve Lopez, reviewed by Gail.
The Unlikely Spy by Daniel Silva, reviewed by Gail.
Undone by Karin Slaughter, reviewed by Gail.
The End of Overeating by David Kessler, reviewed by Monika: "A must-read for anyone who is trying to eat healthy and lose wieght."

In the "chills" category was:

Committed by Elizabeth Gilbert, reviewed by Patricia: "A waste of my time. I could have been reading something fun."