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Books
Julia's chocolates by Cathy Lamb
Julia Bennett leaves her wedding dress hanging in a tree in Iowa as she makes her escape from her abusive fiance towards the safety of her loving, but eccentric Aunt Lydia. Julia's self esteem, not to mention her body, has suffered a the hands of the attractive, wealthy abuser. Julia retreats to Aunt Lydia's to tend chickens, develop new friendships and create her delectable chocolates. She makes friends with the attendees of "Psychic Night," a talented artist, turned reluctant minister's wife; the mother of four children, who shares her home with an alcoholic husband; and a reclusive psychic who fears the future as she sees it.
The broken blade by William Durbin (young adult fiction)
Durbin writes fantastic historical fiction with just the right amount of detail. Each chapter is headed with a map showing the progress that the main character, Pierre, makes. If you have any interest in Great Lakes history, check this book out!
Back to life : a Trophy Wives Club novel by Kristin Billerbeck
Back to Life by Kristin Billerbeck is the second book in the Trophy Wives' Club series. Lindsay married a man, Ron, seventeen years her elder for his money, but came to love him in time, so she is devastated by his sudden death, leaving her a widow at the age of 35. She's living in a condo with old woman who have lots of cats and trying to get her feet back on the ground when her husband's first wife, Jane, shows up to execute his will, bringing with her a handsome son, Ron Jr, who she swears isn't Ron's son. Billerbeck takes what could be a typical chick-lit plot and gives it life and zing. Lindsay has used her beauty to get by for so long, that she doesn't even notice when she's doing it, and Billerbeck is careful not to let the reader in on it too soon, so when Lindsay is stunned by the revelation, the reader is as well, but it makes all of the pieces of the entire novel fall into place. The chapters alternate between Lindsay and Jane, both of whom seem lost and are flailing about for what to do next. The highlight of the book for me was Lindsay's confrontation with Haley. Lindsay's attempt to control the argument and use of twisted logic was hilarious and extraordinarily well done. I've been on the both side of arguments just like that; to capture that in print is amazing. I'm looking forward to see which Trophy Wife Billerbeck tackles next.
Garden spells by Sarah Addison Allen
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen proved to be a nice distraction to many unplanned hours in an airport and other unintended means of transport. (Don't ask!) The story revolves around a young caterer, Claire Waverly, who is an absolute wizard with food. Her mysterious powers allow her to add flowers to food or drink that affect mood or spur action. Her sister fled the Waverly reputation to lead a fast life, returning only when the safety of her daughter is in doubt. The sisters search for love and belonging in a town long suspicious of their special gifts. After reading this book I purchased (in hardcover!) the author's newest book, The Sugar Queen.
The Queen of Bedlam by Robert McCammon
The Queen of Bedlam is the sequel to McCammon's masterpiece Speaks the Nightbird starring law clerk Matthew Corbett. Matthew is back, this time in 1702 New York City working as a clerk to a magistrate and spending his evenings stalking the headmaster from his former orphanage. Before Matthew takes things into his own hands, a serial killer starts killing and mutilating businessmen, including the headmaster, and Matthew wants to know who else hated the man enough to do him such violence. Matthew is also invited to work for an early private investigation firm that takes him to an insane asylum to determine the identity of a beautifully and rich older woman who says nothing except to ask if the king's reply has arrived. Matthew's fierce sense of justice and what is right sends him on many quests that somehow end up tied together and of course endanger his life. You know how it feels when you ride on a roller coaster? The slow rise to the first hill that stretches your nerves to their limit followed by swoops and spins that leave you reeling and breathless leading up to the sick feeling of wanting it to be over while at the same time hoping it never ends? That's a Robert McCammon book. I don't know how to describe it any better than that.
Music
Compass rose bouquet / Great Lakes Myth Society
This is a great album - my personal favorite from 2007. This Band out of Michigan has a great art/folk rock sound. Their songs tell great stories and they have a great midwestern feel to them. I especially appreciate that they have a dynamic range - not every song sounds like the last one. If you like the Decemberists you may want to give Great Lakes Myth Society a try.
Sound Recordings
Never stand behind a sneezing cow & other tales from Foggy Crossing by Michael Perry
Perry has woven familiar and unique one-liners in his description of Foggy Crossing, a rural Wisconsin town. I appreciated his unique material best, but found myself laughing at the familiar as well.
Alexander and the wonderful, marvelous, excellent, terrific ninety days: [an almost completely honest account of what happened to our family when our youngest son, his wife, their baby, their toddler, and their five-year-old came to live with us for three months] by Judith Viorst
Despite (maybe because of) the fact that I don't have children, I could identify with Viorst's life changes as her adult child and his family come to live in her house for 90 days. This book is touched with light humor, but is primarily a reflection of multi-generation household living and family relationships.
Movies
That old feeling
No one has better credentials in American popular comedy than Carl Reiner, and he's achieved a minor classic in this story of a divorced and remarried couple whose relationship shows what a fine line there is between love and hate. Bette Midler almost steals the show, but luckily the other actors are good enough to stand up to her performance. The ensemble acting is impressive, and the escalating bickering scenes between Midler and Dennis Farina are very funny. Advisory: some mildly explicit sex and occasional language, and a generally adulterous plot line. (Reviewed by Jon Corelis)
A bridge too far
Operation Marketbasket was a foolishly contrived attack planned by Field Marshall Montgomery, which was very costly to the Allies and did nothing to advance the defeat of Germany. The movie is one of those star-studded chronicles produced in the '70's with lots of explosions and shooting and an uninspiring script. If you have never seen it, do watch it, but don't expect too much.
The benchwarmers
When I heard that another movie starring Jon Heder (Napoleon from Napoleon Dynamite) had been made, I rushed to secure a copy of Benchwarmers from my closest library. The concept of "Three Older (and nerdier) Guys" taking on teams of little leagues (and their "jock" fathers) seemed to be a promising premise. The movie falls a little short. There is a good dose of genuine humor, and stupid humor as well, but Jon Heder's role seems less important as the character Gus, and much of the movie is as crude as the PG-13 rating will allow.
Books
Julia's chocolates by Cathy Lamb
Julia Bennett leaves her wedding dress hanging in a tree in Iowa as she makes her escape from her abusive fiance towards the safety of her loving, but eccentric Aunt Lydia. Julia's self esteem, not to mention her body, has suffered a the hands of the attractive, wealthy abuser. Julia retreats to Aunt Lydia's to tend chickens, develop new friendships and create her delectable chocolates. She makes friends with the attendees of "Psychic Night," a talented artist, turned reluctant minister's wife; the mother of four children, who shares her home with an alcoholic husband; and a reclusive psychic who fears the future as she sees it.
The broken blade by William Durbin (young adult fiction)
Durbin writes fantastic historical fiction with just the right amount of detail. Each chapter is headed with a map showing the progress that the main character, Pierre, makes. If you have any interest in Great Lakes history, check this book out!
Back to life : a Trophy Wives Club novel by Kristin Billerbeck
Back to Life by Kristin Billerbeck is the second book in the Trophy Wives' Club series. Lindsay married a man, Ron, seventeen years her elder for his money, but came to love him in time, so she is devastated by his sudden death, leaving her a widow at the age of 35. She's living in a condo with old woman who have lots of cats and trying to get her feet back on the ground when her husband's first wife, Jane, shows up to execute his will, bringing with her a handsome son, Ron Jr, who she swears isn't Ron's son. Billerbeck takes what could be a typical chick-lit plot and gives it life and zing. Lindsay has used her beauty to get by for so long, that she doesn't even notice when she's doing it, and Billerbeck is careful not to let the reader in on it too soon, so when Lindsay is stunned by the revelation, the reader is as well, but it makes all of the pieces of the entire novel fall into place. The chapters alternate between Lindsay and Jane, both of whom seem lost and are flailing about for what to do next. The highlight of the book for me was Lindsay's confrontation with Haley. Lindsay's attempt to control the argument and use of twisted logic was hilarious and extraordinarily well done. I've been on the both side of arguments just like that; to capture that in print is amazing. I'm looking forward to see which Trophy Wife Billerbeck tackles next.
Garden spells by Sarah Addison Allen
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen proved to be a nice distraction to many unplanned hours in an airport and other unintended means of transport. (Don't ask!) The story revolves around a young caterer, Claire Waverly, who is an absolute wizard with food. Her mysterious powers allow her to add flowers to food or drink that affect mood or spur action. Her sister fled the Waverly reputation to lead a fast life, returning only when the safety of her daughter is in doubt. The sisters search for love and belonging in a town long suspicious of their special gifts. After reading this book I purchased (in hardcover!) the author's newest book, The Sugar Queen.
The Queen of Bedlam by Robert McCammon
The Queen of Bedlam is the sequel to McCammon's masterpiece Speaks the Nightbird starring law clerk Matthew Corbett. Matthew is back, this time in 1702 New York City working as a clerk to a magistrate and spending his evenings stalking the headmaster from his former orphanage. Before Matthew takes things into his own hands, a serial killer starts killing and mutilating businessmen, including the headmaster, and Matthew wants to know who else hated the man enough to do him such violence. Matthew is also invited to work for an early private investigation firm that takes him to an insane asylum to determine the identity of a beautifully and rich older woman who says nothing except to ask if the king's reply has arrived. Matthew's fierce sense of justice and what is right sends him on many quests that somehow end up tied together and of course endanger his life. You know how it feels when you ride on a roller coaster? The slow rise to the first hill that stretches your nerves to their limit followed by swoops and spins that leave you reeling and breathless leading up to the sick feeling of wanting it to be over while at the same time hoping it never ends? That's a Robert McCammon book. I don't know how to describe it any better than that.
Music
Compass rose bouquet / Great Lakes Myth Society
This is a great album - my personal favorite from 2007. This Band out of Michigan has a great art/folk rock sound. Their songs tell great stories and they have a great midwestern feel to them. I especially appreciate that they have a dynamic range - not every song sounds like the last one. If you like the Decemberists you may want to give Great Lakes Myth Society a try.
Sound Recordings
Never stand behind a sneezing cow & other tales from Foggy Crossing by Michael Perry
Perry has woven familiar and unique one-liners in his description of Foggy Crossing, a rural Wisconsin town. I appreciated his unique material best, but found myself laughing at the familiar as well.
Alexander and the wonderful, marvelous, excellent, terrific ninety days: [an almost completely honest account of what happened to our family when our youngest son, his wife, their baby, their toddler, and their five-year-old came to live with us for three months] by Judith Viorst
Despite (maybe because of) the fact that I don't have children, I could identify with Viorst's life changes as her adult child and his family come to live in her house for 90 days. This book is touched with light humor, but is primarily a reflection of multi-generation household living and family relationships.
Movies
That old feeling
No one has better credentials in American popular comedy than Carl Reiner, and he's achieved a minor classic in this story of a divorced and remarried couple whose relationship shows what a fine line there is between love and hate. Bette Midler almost steals the show, but luckily the other actors are good enough to stand up to her performance. The ensemble acting is impressive, and the escalating bickering scenes between Midler and Dennis Farina are very funny. Advisory: some mildly explicit sex and occasional language, and a generally adulterous plot line. (Reviewed by Jon Corelis)
A bridge too far
Operation Marketbasket was a foolishly contrived attack planned by Field Marshall Montgomery, which was very costly to the Allies and did nothing to advance the defeat of Germany. The movie is one of those star-studded chronicles produced in the '70's with lots of explosions and shooting and an uninspiring script. If you have never seen it, do watch it, but don't expect too much.
The benchwarmers
When I heard that another movie starring Jon Heder (Napoleon from Napoleon Dynamite) had been made, I rushed to secure a copy of Benchwarmers from my closest library. The concept of "Three Older (and nerdier) Guys" taking on teams of little leagues (and their "jock" fathers) seemed to be a promising premise. The movie falls a little short. There is a good dose of genuine humor, and stupid humor as well, but Jon Heder's role seems less important as the character Gus, and much of the movie is as crude as the PG-13 rating will allow.
Some people love fictional stories that carry them away to made up places near and far. Some prefer escaping into true stories and the world of facts, which can be equally as enthralling. If nonfiction is your cup of tea, check out these reviews from InfoSoup. Explore life in Alaska or stay nearer to home in Wisconsin; learn about kings or homeschooling. If you don't see something you like here, give our Nonfiction Preview list a try. It comes out once a month, and you can subscribe to have it sent to your email or RSS reader automatically. And by the way, what's your favorite nonfiction book? Tell us about it in the comments.Reviews from InfoSoup
Distant fires by Scott Anderson
I skimmed this book and enjoyed it. Anderson has included quips that those with canoeing or camping experience will particularly enjoy, however this book is for anyone with an interest in the area. This is a good companion to the book Canoeing with the Cree by Eric Sevareid.
Any damn fool can be a farmer : growing up on a Wisconsin farm by Bob Knopes
This memoir will give you some great insight into farm life of the early 1900's. An interesting and entertaining look back at the people who created the Wisconsin landscape. Historical and nostalgic.
Shopping for porcupine: a life in arctic Alaska by Seth Kantner
Beautiful photos grace this book that explores the changes in place, character, and personal perspective within Seth Kantner's life. A great read!
100 top picks for homeschool curriculum : choosing the right curriculum and approach for your child's learning style by Cathy Duffy
I have checked this book out at least four times since it was published in 2005. I have finally bought my own copy. I recommend this book to anyone who is thinking about homeschooling, but is unsure of how to get started. There are so many curriculum choices out there that it's overwhelming! I also use it whenever I'm thinking about changing curriculum. Cathy Duffy doesn't just offer curriculum reviews; she helps you understand your philosophy of homeschooling (why you're doing it), your child(ren)'s learning styles, and so much more. Be careful--you may end up buying your own copy as well!
Sex with kings : 500 years of adultery, power, rivalry, and revenge by Eleanor Herman
I was just fascinated by the stories in this book. It's amazing to see the kind of power women had, even then, albeit behind the scenes. Couldn't put it down, definitely a must-read.
Check out the latest reviews added to InfoSoup. You never know when you'll find something you'd like to check out (or avoid)! If you would like to add a review (or two or three!) to InfoSoup, view our
screencast on Using Community
Reviews in InfoSoup for some help in getting started.
Fiction
Funny in Farsi by Firoozeh Dumas
Firoozeh Dumas writes her memoir with humor and detail, but what really struck me was the sweetness that she treats others with, even her "evil" mother-in-law.
Straight Into Darkness by Faye Kellerman
Thank goodness I chose this book during the summer, when I had lots of beach/pool time to devote to it. I couldn't put it down! It was really good, and the historical slant was interesting too. Her descriptions of the beer halls & Hitler rallies made you feel like you were right there. Would definitly recommend it.
A Friend at Midnight by Caroline B. Cooney
I am a big fan of Caroline B. Cooney. There has never been a book of hers that I disliked, but this one came close. It picked up near the end but for most of the story I found myself shouting at Lily and Michael over their actions. Michael because he didn't want anyone to know what his father did at the beginning of the story. I can understand that he wanted to forgive him but it was not right to keep it a secret from the rest of the family. Now onto Lily. She seemed to think that what a eight year old boy wanted was the right thing to do. I think the book would have worked much better if Michael or Lily had told someone before the last few pages of the book. I really found Lily to be very off-putting for most of the book, and mabye that was the intention of Ms. Cooney when she wrote the character but I just couldn't find my self feeling sorry for her ( and I usually like the closed-off in a hard shell type characters). So really all I can say is I had high expactations when I picked this one up but besides the last chapter or two the A Friend At Midnight failed to live up to most of them. 2.5/5
When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall
This was a very good book. I also read the first of the series, When the Heart Cries. I am looking forward to the third in the series, coming out in September, When the Soul Mends. If you like Jeanette Oakes, you'll also like Cindy Woodsmall.
Nonfiction
Teach Like Your Hair's On Fire by Rafe Esquith
Rafe Esquith's book is realistic, enthusiastic, and encouraging. He focuses his teaching on meaningful interactions and is able to communicate his passions to the reader. I recommend this book to teachers, parents, and young adults thinking about a career in teaching.
Star Trek Movie Memories by William Shatner
After having read other books by William Shatner, I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Mr. Shatner shares his memories as well as getting other key players to share their memories about the creation and filming of every Star Trek movie up to Star Trek VII. The book is well organized and easy to follow. I think it is a must read for any Star Trek fan as it helps to explain the who, what, where, and why of the Star Trek movies.
For Kids
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Her redoes of the famous faerie tales are wonderful. She shows imagination and wit. She brings you into a new world, a world were anything can happen, even the impossible. Its the most fairylishious book I have ever read.
Yikes! Bikes! by Abby Klein
My son has read all of Abby Kleins "Ready Freddy" books and loves them. This one is great for kids learning to ride bike. It also encourages children to be involved in their community actively.
Shark Tooth Tale by Abby Klein
Yet another fine story teaching good values about working for and saving money for something special.
For Teens
Generation Dead by Dan Waters
Dead teens join living teens at Oakvale High in this book filled with plot. Most of the living feel strongly about the dead and not in a good way. Segregation, friendship, and authentic relationships are explored in this altered reality. Fans of the Twilight series are likely to enjoy this book as well.
Bloom by Elizabeth Scott
This book was very good though at parts it drifted of the subject. Some of the chapters really had nothing to do with the subject itself it was just kind of random. But overall I loved it and I would read it again and again.
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
This is an amazing end to the Twilight Series! It concludes in a unexpected twist that I believe will leave almost everyone happy. If you haven't read the first three books I wouldn't read this one yet, start with Twilight. I garantee that you will love these books! It is impossible to get a copy of any of these books in my library because they are is such high demand!
Audiobooks
Last Shot by John Feinstein
Sports journalist John Feinstein reads his fictional account in this final four mystery. The plot is littered with detailed information about journalists, student-athletes (players), coaches, and New Orleans. Some of the characters are real people while others are fictional. Basketball enthusiasts will enjoy this mystery involving blackmail.
Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko
My son and I listened to the CDs. Great book... connects with youth relationships, being honest with self and parents, responsibilities as a young adult, plus a little history about Alcatraz (not boring at all).
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
The characters in Water for Elephants are detailed, realistic, and interesting. They will draw you into their world and story. I especially liked the character of Jacob as an old man. It made me feel more empathetic for the elderly. The story was grittier than I expected, yet the book still appealed to me.
Movies
Bella
This is such a great movie--with a beautiful pro-life, pro-adoption theme. Both my husband and I enjoyed, so it is one for both sexes. Be ready to cry a bit, though. I would highly recommend this movie.
Silk
Pittsburgh Paints has standard latex wall paint that will dry in about one hour. That beats this movie which seems to go on forever and is less interesting than watching the paint dry. The priciple character, Herve Joncour talks and moves about like he's had a frontal lobotomy. He's supposed to be a smuggler! Except for the visuals of location shooting, this film is a turkey. Keira Knightley plays the wife of the zombie and I'll bet she has nightmares about being in this film.
Music
Free the Bees
This is a lucky find. A band I never heard of and loved it instantly. Best song for me is Chicken Pay Back.
Fiction
Funny in Farsi by Firoozeh Dumas
Firoozeh Dumas writes her memoir with humor and detail, but what really struck me was the sweetness that she treats others with, even her "evil" mother-in-law.
Straight Into Darkness by Faye Kellerman
Thank goodness I chose this book during the summer, when I had lots of beach/pool time to devote to it. I couldn't put it down! It was really good, and the historical slant was interesting too. Her descriptions of the beer halls & Hitler rallies made you feel like you were right there. Would definitly recommend it.
A Friend at Midnight by Caroline B. Cooney
I am a big fan of Caroline B. Cooney. There has never been a book of hers that I disliked, but this one came close. It picked up near the end but for most of the story I found myself shouting at Lily and Michael over their actions. Michael because he didn't want anyone to know what his father did at the beginning of the story. I can understand that he wanted to forgive him but it was not right to keep it a secret from the rest of the family. Now onto Lily. She seemed to think that what a eight year old boy wanted was the right thing to do. I think the book would have worked much better if Michael or Lily had told someone before the last few pages of the book. I really found Lily to be very off-putting for most of the book, and mabye that was the intention of Ms. Cooney when she wrote the character but I just couldn't find my self feeling sorry for her ( and I usually like the closed-off in a hard shell type characters). So really all I can say is I had high expactations when I picked this one up but besides the last chapter or two the A Friend At Midnight failed to live up to most of them. 2.5/5
When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall
This was a very good book. I also read the first of the series, When the Heart Cries. I am looking forward to the third in the series, coming out in September, When the Soul Mends. If you like Jeanette Oakes, you'll also like Cindy Woodsmall.
Nonfiction
Teach Like Your Hair's On Fire by Rafe Esquith
Rafe Esquith's book is realistic, enthusiastic, and encouraging. He focuses his teaching on meaningful interactions and is able to communicate his passions to the reader. I recommend this book to teachers, parents, and young adults thinking about a career in teaching.
Star Trek Movie Memories by William Shatner
After having read other books by William Shatner, I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Mr. Shatner shares his memories as well as getting other key players to share their memories about the creation and filming of every Star Trek movie up to Star Trek VII. The book is well organized and easy to follow. I think it is a must read for any Star Trek fan as it helps to explain the who, what, where, and why of the Star Trek movies.
For Kids
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Her redoes of the famous faerie tales are wonderful. She shows imagination and wit. She brings you into a new world, a world were anything can happen, even the impossible. Its the most fairylishious book I have ever read.
Yikes! Bikes! by Abby Klein
My son has read all of Abby Kleins "Ready Freddy" books and loves them. This one is great for kids learning to ride bike. It also encourages children to be involved in their community actively.
Shark Tooth Tale by Abby Klein
Yet another fine story teaching good values about working for and saving money for something special.
For Teens
Generation Dead by Dan Waters
Dead teens join living teens at Oakvale High in this book filled with plot. Most of the living feel strongly about the dead and not in a good way. Segregation, friendship, and authentic relationships are explored in this altered reality. Fans of the Twilight series are likely to enjoy this book as well.
Bloom by Elizabeth Scott
This book was very good though at parts it drifted of the subject. Some of the chapters really had nothing to do with the subject itself it was just kind of random. But overall I loved it and I would read it again and again.
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
This is an amazing end to the Twilight Series! It concludes in a unexpected twist that I believe will leave almost everyone happy. If you haven't read the first three books I wouldn't read this one yet, start with Twilight. I garantee that you will love these books! It is impossible to get a copy of any of these books in my library because they are is such high demand!
Audiobooks
Last Shot by John Feinstein
Sports journalist John Feinstein reads his fictional account in this final four mystery. The plot is littered with detailed information about journalists, student-athletes (players), coaches, and New Orleans. Some of the characters are real people while others are fictional. Basketball enthusiasts will enjoy this mystery involving blackmail.
Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko
My son and I listened to the CDs. Great book... connects with youth relationships, being honest with self and parents, responsibilities as a young adult, plus a little history about Alcatraz (not boring at all).
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
The characters in Water for Elephants are detailed, realistic, and interesting. They will draw you into their world and story. I especially liked the character of Jacob as an old man. It made me feel more empathetic for the elderly. The story was grittier than I expected, yet the book still appealed to me.
Movies
Bella
This is such a great movie--with a beautiful pro-life, pro-adoption theme. Both my husband and I enjoyed, so it is one for both sexes. Be ready to cry a bit, though. I would highly recommend this movie.
Silk
Pittsburgh Paints has standard latex wall paint that will dry in about one hour. That beats this movie which seems to go on forever and is less interesting than watching the paint dry. The priciple character, Herve Joncour talks and moves about like he's had a frontal lobotomy. He's supposed to be a smuggler! Except for the visuals of location shooting, this film is a turkey. Keira Knightley plays the wife of the zombie and I'll bet she has nightmares about being in this film.
Music
Free the Bees
This is a lucky find. A band I never heard of and loved it instantly. Best song for me is Chicken Pay Back.
Check out what people are writing reviews about in InfoSoup. You never know when you'll find something you'd like to check out (or avoid)!
Cartoon cool : how to draw new retro-style characters / Christopher Hart
BEST RETRO DRAWING BOOK!!!!!!!!
It's a great book full of tips, and secrets on how to draw retro. Christopher Hart has really outdone himself this time. He encourages you to use what imagination you have. Or if you don't have imagination he has step-by-step instructions on how to draw a large collection of retro people, pets, and backrounds. Overall a great book for all ages. (My sister, she's 7, and she could draw using this book.)
An expert in murder : a new mystery featuring Josephine Tey / Nicola Upson
Beautiful writing, but...
I really loved the start of Nicola Upson's new mystery. The writing was beautiful, and the characters appealing. But although the setup is great, the most likeable character is soon killed off. While the main and supporting characters had interesting stories and personalities, I couldn't bring myself to care about them - they seemed stiff and flat. The d'enouement was disappointing as well - overly complicated and somehow unaffecting. Not a bad book, but a disappointing end to a very promising start.
The annotated chronicles / Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman
Annotated Dragonlance Chronicles
There are few books that I've read more than once in my life. I remember reading these books during junior high, again-aloud for a visually impaired friend in college, and now. They still hold that grand fantasy aura for me. And, the notes from the authors made it more fun to read!
Memories [videorecording] / [presented by] Katsuhiro Otomo
A Memorable Three-Part Harmony.
The three segments of Memories: Magnetic Rose, Stink Bomb, and Cannon Fodder present a film-festival-appropriate barrage of images which will leave you amazed (or maybe a little confused). Each of the segments is 40 minutes long, and consists of its own self-contained story. The film is in Japanese with English subtitles only, but it doesn't detract from the powerful message that it contains. The first segment, Magnetic Rose, starts out as a science-fiction, where garbage collectors make money on old, run-down spaceships. A team of these explorers hear a distress signal coming from a deserted ship, and discover a shrine to a deceased opera singer. At first the two explorers believe there is nothing but her memories left, but then she tries to ensnare the travelers using their own shortcomings... Stink Bomb is a dark comedic intermission from the other two segments. Nobuo Tanaka, a simple worker at a pharmaceudical company, is willing to try anything to cure his cold. He takes a blue pill from a red bottle on his boss's desk (or was it a red pill from a blue bottle?) and suddenly Japan is ravished by a terrible airborne virus that seems to be centered around poor Tanaka. What more can Japan do but send out the entire military to stop him? Finally, there is Cannon Fodder, a story that touches on the foolishness of war. This drawn-out segment features entirely different animation, as seen through the eyes of a boy who lives in a city that does nothing but fire their enormous cannons at an unknown enemy. Parental Advisory: Magnetic Rose quite a few instances of the s-word (as does Stink Bomb, to a lesser degree). The overall tone of these three movies are gloomy and there are quite a few unnerving images used throughout it.
If you would like to add a review (or two or three!) to InfoSoup, view our screencast on Using Community Reviews in InfoSoup for some help in getting started.
Cartoon cool : how to draw new retro-style characters / Christopher Hart
BEST RETRO DRAWING BOOK!!!!!!!!
It's a great book full of tips, and secrets on how to draw retro. Christopher Hart has really outdone himself this time. He encourages you to use what imagination you have. Or if you don't have imagination he has step-by-step instructions on how to draw a large collection of retro people, pets, and backrounds. Overall a great book for all ages. (My sister, she's 7, and she could draw using this book.)
An expert in murder : a new mystery featuring Josephine Tey / Nicola Upson
Beautiful writing, but...
I really loved the start of Nicola Upson's new mystery. The writing was beautiful, and the characters appealing. But although the setup is great, the most likeable character is soon killed off. While the main and supporting characters had interesting stories and personalities, I couldn't bring myself to care about them - they seemed stiff and flat. The d'enouement was disappointing as well - overly complicated and somehow unaffecting. Not a bad book, but a disappointing end to a very promising start.
The annotated chronicles / Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman
Annotated Dragonlance Chronicles
There are few books that I've read more than once in my life. I remember reading these books during junior high, again-aloud for a visually impaired friend in college, and now. They still hold that grand fantasy aura for me. And, the notes from the authors made it more fun to read!
Memories [videorecording] / [presented by] Katsuhiro Otomo
A Memorable Three-Part Harmony.
The three segments of Memories: Magnetic Rose, Stink Bomb, and Cannon Fodder present a film-festival-appropriate barrage of images which will leave you amazed (or maybe a little confused). Each of the segments is 40 minutes long, and consists of its own self-contained story. The film is in Japanese with English subtitles only, but it doesn't detract from the powerful message that it contains. The first segment, Magnetic Rose, starts out as a science-fiction, where garbage collectors make money on old, run-down spaceships. A team of these explorers hear a distress signal coming from a deserted ship, and discover a shrine to a deceased opera singer. At first the two explorers believe there is nothing but her memories left, but then she tries to ensnare the travelers using their own shortcomings... Stink Bomb is a dark comedic intermission from the other two segments. Nobuo Tanaka, a simple worker at a pharmaceudical company, is willing to try anything to cure his cold. He takes a blue pill from a red bottle on his boss's desk (or was it a red pill from a blue bottle?) and suddenly Japan is ravished by a terrible airborne virus that seems to be centered around poor Tanaka. What more can Japan do but send out the entire military to stop him? Finally, there is Cannon Fodder, a story that touches on the foolishness of war. This drawn-out segment features entirely different animation, as seen through the eyes of a boy who lives in a city that does nothing but fire their enormous cannons at an unknown enemy. Parental Advisory: Magnetic Rose quite a few instances of the s-word (as does Stink Bomb, to a lesser degree). The overall tone of these three movies are gloomy and there are quite a few unnerving images used throughout it.
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If you would like to add a review (or two or three!) to InfoSoup, view our screencast on Using Community Reviews in InfoSoup for some help in getting started.
For Adults
So brave, young, and handsome by Leif Enger [fiction]
"Enger's writing reminds me a bit of Pat Conroy. His use of the English language is exquisite and his characters unique. I liked his first novel better (Peace Like a River), but this one didn't disappoint. Great read!"
The handweaver's pattern directory by Anne Dixon [nonfiction]
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The Spooky Tail of Prewitt Peacock by Bill Peet {picture book]
"This children's book stands the test of time. My son loves it and wants to hear it over and over again! Prewitt is different from the other peacocks, but his differences end up saving all of the peacocks in the end. A good message of tolerance and acceptance of those who are different."
Probably Pistachio by Stuart J. Murphy [child nonfiction]
"Kind of a long book to read, but there are other opportunities in the book, like making predictions, building backround knowledge, inferring, etc. We ate pistachio ice cream a few days later, as well as pistachio nuts."
It's Probably Penny by Loreen Leedy [child nonfiction]
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If you would like to add a review (or two or three!) to InfoSoup, view our screencast on Using Community Reviews in InfoSoup for some help in getting started.
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