This is the last book in the Madeline Finn series. I almost feel sad that this is the case. I have thorou“To those who look for blessings everywhere.”
This is the last book in the Madeline Finn series. I almost feel sad that this is the case. I have thoroughly loved being in Madeline’s universe, along with the dogs.
In this story, it is more than about dogs. It includes all animals who are present to receive the Blessing. The Blessing of the Animals, is held around October 4th each year. It honors St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. This is an opportunity for animals to receive a special blessing from a priest or minister in celebration of the bond between humans and animals.
The book highlights the event with a special blessing for both dogs, Bonnie and Star.
“Everyone has a blessing inside. We just have to look for it.”
How can you not be touched by such a thoughtful book for children? Especially as it teaches how animals can be such a gift of grace in our lives.
And, the character Miss Mary reminds Madeline that each of us has a gift to share. Leaving any child or parent or teacher with this question to contemplate…
What gift is ours to share?
And, are we ready to set it free?
As well as, how can this help those waiting for their forever homes that are still in the shelters?
“You’re my little blessing.”
For anyone looking for a book to share with kids, this series is a gift. A blessing. And, a wonderful reading experience for people of all ages.
Age Level: 4 – 8 years+ - Reading Level: preK – 3rd grade+
I am coming close to the end with my reading adventure with Madeline and the dogs who have come in to her life. If anyone is looking for a good seriesI am coming close to the end with my reading adventure with Madeline and the dogs who have come in to her life. If anyone is looking for a good series that features the importance of animals in one’s life this is the one. It is also easy-to-read, and includes delightful outcomes that will please and teach children. With such a beautifully illustrated experience, it is easy to recommend this series highly.
The message of this book is about therapy dogs, which in all facets of life, play an important role. They not only provide unconditional love, reduce stress and improve people’s mental and physical health by being in their presence, they offer comfort for those in need.
I remember when my mother lived in her first assisted living home, we would visit her with our dogs (by permission of staff). It soon became clear how much they were also appreciated by the other residents. Even though they were not considered true ‘therapy’ dogs, the smiles and joy they brought to everyone was duly apparent. Therapy dogs have been known to be a catalyst for healing and support, especially for those suffering from loneliness.
In this book, readers will have the opportunity to see Madeline and her dog, Star helping people cope by visiting them. The scenes within the story are sweet, poignant and heart-felt. Kleenex may be necessary.
Age Level: 4 – 8 years+ - Reading Level: PreK – 3rd grade+
How could we not fall in love with a book like this? Isn’t this what love truly is about? An opportunity t“Dear Dogs. This is our love letter to you.”
How could we not fall in love with a book like this? Isn’t this what love truly is about? An opportunity to be grateful and thankful for the dogs in our life ‘who help us.’
This book is a warm-hearted thank you to the dogs for all that they bring to human lives. And, on each page, the author shares what those things are. From their tails to their ears, to their eyes, or fur and so on – each part of their body has a loving purpose. Which makes this a wonderful teaching book for kids to fully understand the importance of beloved canine companions and the roles they play in human’s lives.
“Fuzzy for nuzzling, gifting comfort.”
And each page is attractively illustrated, where readers can see and feel the love.
“Your kisses help us Accept what we’ve lost, Hold close what remains.”
This book also encourages readers as to why they would want to ‘adopt a dog.’
The last few pages share relevant and compelling reasons why service dogs, matter in our world.
Age Level: 3 – 6 years+ Reading Level: PreK – Grade 2+
I want to thank my Goodreads friends, Rosh and Darla, for always recommending such great children’s books to read. And, of course, I am typically partI want to thank my Goodreads friends, Rosh and Darla, for always recommending such great children’s books to read. And, of course, I am typically partial to any books that feature animals – especially, dogs!
When I read and reviewed “Madeline Finn and the Shelter Dog,” both Rosh and Darla encouraged me to read this one, too. Stephen Wallace another Goodreads friend, who also only reviews dog books, wanted me to read the whole series. For anyone interested in my review of ‘…the Shelter Dog,’ see below.
In regards to this book, how could we possibly ignore a library dog? And, when it is presented with a cover like this, can you feel yourself swooning, a bit? Books everywhere and Madeline, our main character, leaning against a gorgeous white dog, named Bonnie.
On a personal note, I’d like to share how valuable it is to have library dogs. They are so healing and encouraging in so many ways, because young children can read to the dog in the library.
As an example, our local library featured a corgi girl named Billie who was available once a week to do this with the kids. Some kids who were shy, or reluctant readers, actually found themselves excited about reading after having this experience.
Billie was one of our corgi friends. Many times, we would take her on walks with our corgis, Oliver and Oscar, while her human was recovering from problems with her hips. So, when Billie passed away this summer, there were many mourners, besides her human and us. ...more
This one landed as a donation in my Little Free Library Shed. Considering the title and premise of the story, meant for children, I wanted to read it This one landed as a donation in my Little Free Library Shed. Considering the title and premise of the story, meant for children, I wanted to read it before sharing it with the neighborhood.
This is a beautifully told and illustrated story about grieving the loss of a loved one. It shows the emotional connections children can make to those that matter to them while also addressing the questions that go along with the loss of that special someone.
In this story, our main character creates a memory box that includes reminiscences of important moments, thoughts, and/or things that can hold those memories for years to come.
This book provides a special way to help guide children in processing grief and healing through it.
Reading level: 4 – 8 years – Grade Level: Preschool+...more
First, look at this adorable book cover. We have 3 dogs, a girl and an attentive bunny rabbit in a basket. But one of the dogs is behind a cage. The gFirst, look at this adorable book cover. We have 3 dogs, a girl and an attentive bunny rabbit in a basket. But one of the dogs is behind a cage. The girl is looking wistfully at that dog, just as the other dogs are also looking, too. And, there is also a book laying on the floor next to one of the pups, while the girl is holding onto a couple of books, too. Are you not just a little bit in awe by this scene?
Second, I want to thank my Goodreads friend, Rosh for steering me in the direction of this book. She is one of the best reviewers when it comes to critically evaluating books that are most suited for children and young adults. So, when she said,
Finally, why would I want to read this book? The book cover for one. And, I too happen to review children’s books. And, it certainly helps when dogs are featured.
Those who have read my reviews, already know I love dogs. I have two of them that happen to be cardigan corgis, named Oliver and Oscar. And, although my dogs aren’t shelter dogs, they are truly our best friends.
Still, my own story with my first dog living on my own, starts with Jessie, who came from our local Humane Society. It turns out she was an Australian Kelpie, who taught me how to Love. (I recently included a picture of her on my profile page.) Jessie was also a great teacher to the corgis that followed into our family. She graced our lives for 14 years. So, I recognize the value and importance of shelter dogs, and how important it is for them and us when we can be, or help find that forever home.
With this book…
The illustrations are stunning. Any child or parent or teacher will feel as if they are stepping inside the book and experiencing whatever is happening for the characters. And, those characters, include our main headliner, Madeline, who obviously wants a dog. Once she has her puppy, the work begins. Along with the love.
Madeline not only must learn to take care of her puppy she chooses to read to the many animals at the shelter that are waiting for their forever homes.
What other things can Madeline do to help support the animals at the shelter?
The sense of community giving, love, companionship, the joy and responsibility of pet ownership reside within these pages. Thank you again, Rosh for bringing me to this joyful reading experience.
For the love of dogs. That is why we do what we do. And, read books like this!
We just got back from a quick two-day visit to Carmel and Monterey, CA. For the love of dogs. That is why we do what we do. And, read books like this!
We just got back from a quick two-day visit to Carmel and Monterey, CA. The intention of the trip was to take our 7-year-old corgi, Oliver to see an eye specialist vet, because our regular vet was concerned that there might be some possible eye blindness in his brown eye. And, the closest specialist to us was in Monterey, about 2 and l/2 hours away. So, we decided to make it an overnight excursion with Oliver and Oscar, by staying in Carmel before our appointment the next day.
I mention this, before this review because there is something about books about dogs, and our joy about loving dogs that make everything we do for them so worthwhile. Right?♥️...more
Although this story could be read as a stand-alone, it is best to start with “Dogtown.” Because this book also has a reconciliation moment, that allows for follow-up on Chance, the dog in the first story.
This second in the series gives interesting insights into what happens within an animal shelter, to those animals who have not yet found their forever home. And, it is told from a mouse’s point of view.
Now granted, when one thinks of mice, it usually is not with reverence. Even our narrator shares…
“If you’re a mouse, nobody ever wants you…so you’d better be good at hiding.”
And, I could certainly relate to that when we (my husband and I) experienced some rain rot in our garage which invited some unwanted guests. Yes, mice. Needless to say, we are in the midst of renovation, repair and clean-up, as this review is being written. So, if I had any empathy for mice, it would most likely come from this story. Not this human’s unfortunate real world experience! ...more
This book is considered the first in the Wildstone series.
The author shared in an interview, that Wildstone was a “fictional town that was a compositThis book is considered the first in the Wildstone series.
The author shared in an interview, that Wildstone was a “fictional town that was a composite inspired by the northern California coastline, which includes beaches, ranches and wineries.”
And, when one of her characters mentioned she took classes “at the community college in San Luis Obispo,” I knew Wildstone was more than familiar in description, it was near my home.
How did I come to this obvious conclusion? Well, I use to teach and direct a program at the very community college the character referenced. Thus, it is only fair to presume, that this book is centered near my home which is the central coast of California. Just a few hours north of Los Angeles.
The story starts with Quinn.
What would you do if everything you thought you knew about your family was a lie? Would you be upset, shocked, or angry? Quinn, who is still in grief over the tragic loss of her sister, Beth, two years ago, doesn’t know what to think. But she does have feelings. But with these feelings, who should Quinn be most angry with – her parents, or Carolyn?
And, wasn’t Carolyn the nice woman she would see and occasionally speak to when she was in line for her daily morning coffee? What did Carolyn do to deserve Quinn’s confusion and anger?
Carolyn: “You only live once, right?” Quinn: “Not true. You live every day. You only die once.”
At 30 years of age, it is almost as if Quinn is part of the walking dead. She lives in a nice home, has a great job, with parents who adore her; and, a guy named Brock who appears to love her. And yet, nothing is making her happy. And, now an attorney who looks like Harry Potter, from a town in California she has never heard of, comes to tell her this news.
So, why does this news seem so difficult for her to process?
“Don’t you get it? It’s like I’ve been living my life from chapter two of my own story! I missed chapter one entirely! And the prologue!”
And then, there is Mick.
Mick escaped this same small town after high school, and is now coming back and forth from San Francisco to take care of his mother after his father’s death. He brings with him his lovable 12-year-old golden retriever, Coop with his own set of issues. Coop also happens to grace the cover of this paperback book copy.
“Coop lay down, set his head on his front paws, and stared forlornly out at the ball that his brain wanted to chase but his sore joints and tired body wouldn’t allow. It was a daily reminder for the dog, who in his own mind clearly wasn’t elderly, forgetful or more than half deaf. Nope, in Coop’s opinion, he was still a rambunctious, energetic puppy.”
How will Quinn’s life intersect with Mick? And, Coop?
Readers will be entertained with quotes at the beginning of each chapter from “The Mixed-Up Files of Tilly Adam’s Journal,” such as this one (and some I have included below)…
“Sometimes my life feels like a test I didn’t study for.”
So, who is Tilly? Hint: could the title of the book be a clue?
And, what will Quinn, and Mick and Coop and Tilly’s destiny be in this small town called, Wildstone?
And, shall we add Tink, the lost and found cat?
Grief. Friendship. Family. Love. Responsibility. Animal love. Sisterhood, both lost and found.
This is a fast-paced, sometimes emotional and sometimes humorous, easy-to-read page-turner with short chapters, that should readily engage readers. The story is character-centered, at times steamy, and compelling. The characters are likable and easy to hope for a happily-ever-after ending....more
The sheep shepherd, George Glenn has been murdered with a spade. But fear not, the sheep are on the case. Seriously. If you eveMystery readers alert!
The sheep shepherd, George Glenn has been murdered with a spade. But fear not, the sheep are on the case. Seriously. If you ever doubted that animals would not be connected to their humans, this book will definitely show you how it is possible.
Who would ever suspect that it would take ‘a sheep detective story’ to entice any reader?! Or, that our main protagonists would be sheep investigating their shepherd’s murder. Or, that it would take 342 pages to tell the story. Oh my!
Now don’t get my cynicism wrong. After all, if it weren’t for Rita Mae Brown’s Mrs. Murphy mystery series featuring her talking corgi, Tucker, I would not have corgis! (Yes, years ago, I saw one of her books that was made into a made-for-television movie, that simply entranced me!) How could I not resist that her talking corgi, and cats, Mrs. Murphy and Pewter would be integral to helping their human postmistress, Harry to solve the cases? If interested, her first book, “Wish You Were Here” review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So, why not sheep? In a lovely scenic place such as Ireland.
This is the author’s debut novel in 2005, translated from German by Anthea Bell in 2006. And, if it is any indication of her writing style, who knows what her future holds? After all, this is an international bestseller. And, a donation to my Little Free Library Shed. So, it seemed only appropriate that I should dig in. Besides, don’t we need a little escape from the real world now and then?
As a side note, Leonie Swann went on to write quite a few books, including several that featured a character named Agnes Sharp.
Back to this one.
Now, granted these are smart sheep. They were read to nightly by George, their shepherd. So, it seems only fair that we acknowledge their interest in solving his murder. And, because we are suspending disbelief, and acknowledging the sheep in this way, this book can become fun for readers to watch them do it. In a state of deep contemplation. Which makes this slow-burn story, slow but stirring and touching in a cute way....more
Without sounding like a parrot, but sounding like a parrot, there is this funny thing that happened on my way to my donation basket in my Little Free Without sounding like a parrot, but sounding like a parrot, there is this funny thing that happened on my way to my donation basket in my Little Free Library Shed. Two children’s books were donated that were “written” by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The first book, which I have also reviewed is called, Museum 123. What makes this particularly interesting is that just a week or so earlier, the book, “All the Beauty in the World” by Patrick Bringley was also donated.
The book is a fun illustrative teacher of the ABC’s for children. And, the book not only emphasizes each letter in the alphabet, but also shares a word for children to learn. And, then the pictures of art that are displayed on the opposite page, will coincide with the word selected.
Not only will kids have the opportunity to learn the alphabet, and a word associated with the letter they are learning, but they will be exposed to the beautiful art that is a part of the museum’s displays.
There is also an extensive index at the back of the book that identifies the art, that accompanies the letters.
A funny thing happened on my way to my donation basket in my Little Free Library Shed. Two children’s books were donated that were “written” by the MeA funny thing happened on my way to my donation basket in my Little Free Library Shed. Two children’s books were donated that were “written” by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The second book, which I have also reviewed is called, Museum ABC. What makes this particularly interesting is that just a week or so earlier, the book, “All the Beauty in the World” by Patrick Bringley was also donated.
This book is a simple teaching tool for kids showing them the numbers 1-10 featuring actual works of art from the museum. The book is so beautifully visual that it should be an exciting way for kids of all ages to learn and gather an appreciation for art.
There is also an extensive index at the back of the book that identifies the art, that coincides with the numbers.
Hobbs and Jackson, both bestselling children’s authors, who also work with other authors, are back with their 3rd book in the ‘Navigating Natural DisaHobbs and Jackson, both bestselling children’s authors, who also work with other authors, are back with their 3rd book in the ‘Navigating Natural Disaster Series.’ Each book can be read as a stand-alone. The first two are:
Tanya Zeinlova, the illustrator, artistically brings the characters to life, displaying Ruby, our main protagonist, and her family traversing fire season.
Although the story is based in Australia, it can apply to anywhere in the world. Especially now that climate change/global warming has increased the odds of heightened drought conditions in many parts of the United States and the world. Thus, making them more susceptible to fires.
Which makes books like this paramount, as they help guide families and communities through critical life-changing events.
The story showcases Ruby working with her family and neighbors, and first responders to come together to address the dry conditions that can so easily lead to fire. And, what can be done, in advance, to save the land, farms, homes, animals and people. It also shares the importance of having an emergency evacuation system and center in place to support those families threatened by the fires.
These books ‘support Social and Emotional Learning’ “by helping children process fear, build resilience, and stay calm during emergencies.” They also serve as excellent tools for teaching and learning. They are easy-to-read, and encourage responsible planning, along with promoting serenity during stressful circumstances.
There is a ‘Certificate of Courage’ and a ‘bushfire facts for kids’ page at the back that will certainly please children, as well as, benefit readers, families and teachers. There is also a website available that provides additional educational resources.
I want to thank the authors and the Indie Publishing Group Inc. for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
This is the second book in the Navigating Natural Disasters Series. The first was “Max and the Mighty Hurricane.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.cThis is the second book in the Navigating Natural Disasters Series. The first was “Max and the Mighty Hurricane.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The books are created to “support Social and Emotional Learning” by helping kids navigate “storm-related anxiety.” The books elevate the reading experience by including parents and teachers to ask questions and guide kids to a calming place, especially in times of chaos and confusion.
This story, as emphasized by the title, is about a pending tornado. And, the main protagonist is Oliver. Oliver lives on a farm with his family, and much of their life is knowing about what to look for between a tornado watch, a tornado warning, and, being prepared for a tornado emergency.
The exquisitely illustrated book by Tanya Zeinlova, features the family actively discussing and going through important checklists – checking supplies and maintaining calm within the home as they prepare for the tornado before seeking shelter.
The book shares the importance of preparation so that the family knows expectations when or if disaster occurs because of a tornado. And, how everyone can come together as a community to support one another should a tornado strike.
This is an easy-to-read, aesthetically pleasing, captivating, educating reading experience that will be invaluable, especially to those who live in tornado country.
The book also provides a Certificate of Resilience & Preparedness and a Tornado Alerts checklist at the end that will certainly appeal to students interested in achieving tornado readiness.
I want to thank the authors and the Indie Publishing Group Inc. for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
At the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s bAt the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s book as their group’s book discussion selection. I thought it was a fascinating coincidence. Especially, when they started to get into their own discussion about birds. As a side note, I finished, but decided not to review “The Summer Guests.” Sometimes books are just for reading.
Let me first start by sharing my admiration for this book cover. It is the only painted color illustration offered of a bird in the whole book. Which is a shame. But it is absolutely stunning. The spectacular blue and gray feathers of this California Scrub Jay comes through vibrantly. Look at the claws as it clutches onto the stem of the plant/tree. And, the serious look in the eye with the white streak above it, is just gorgeous. Unfortunately for me, I really had hoped there would be more color illustrations of birds throughout the book. Still, the black and white bird illustrations that were offered at the beginning of each chapter are a nice treat. But this book cover illustration by Eunike Nugroho is something to be truly acknowledged, and that is why I am mentioning it.
Now let’s talk about the title of the book. I love the way the author starts this book. She is very clear that birds have gotten the short end of the stick, so to speak, when it comes to perception about their intelligence.
To be honest, any of us who are animal lovers, probably believe our pets are intelligent and have an innate ability to communicate with us. I already get this from my corgi dog Oliver with the way he can either shame face me into submission, or soften me because he is telling me everything, I need to know about what he needs from me in any given moment. So, those of us who have pets, obviously already believe in their abilities to creatively interface with us.
So, it is not surprising to any of us who have an affinity for animals, that we might wonder about ‘birds’ intellectual abilities to communicate, and especially their ability to communicate with humans. The more that science can bridge this gap, the more aware we can be in understanding them, their needs, and meeting and appreciating those needs. Or, at least appreciating what they bring to humans and nature, overall.
This is the beauty of this book. Helping readers reimagine our understanding of “bird brains.” To see and appreciate them differently. And, readers can certainly appreciate the author’s sense of wonder about birds.
Last minutes notes for consideration…
Throughout the book, Ackerman provides many explanations in layman’s terms of complex studies done on birds. Those birds with language skills are captivating. The studies are easily translatable, making them understandable for readers. Also, this book can be read at a slow pace, if desired. I chose to read this book in-between my novels, thus the slow pace worked well for me. I also appreciated that the book could be utilized as a teaching tool…especially for those who enjoy birdwatching, or are fascinated with birds in general....more
“If imagination is the rocket, then books are the rocket fuel. They supercharge the mind and help it see beyond what it can conceive on its own.”
Ther“If imagination is the rocket, then books are the rocket fuel. They supercharge the mind and help it see beyond what it can conceive on its own.”
There is an interesting little backstory between this book, my local library and me. I originally ordered this book for check-out on October 4, 2024. Yes, you heard me right. Last year. And then, my library cancelled the order on December 4, 2024 and said the book was no longer available. What? I guess that meant they decided not to include it in the library system. Or, did they?
Recently, I noticed it on Goodreads, which reminded me of how much I had wanted to read the book. So, I decided to do an online search of it at my library. And, sure enough it was in the system. What? So, I ordered it again on August 8, 2025. I was happy to receive it on August 12, 2025. I will never understand the mystery of what occurred last year, and why they did not notify me that it was available again for order. Oh well. I am just pleased to have the opportunity to finally read it.
To be honest, I did not know what this reading experience would be. I just wanted to read it, because I enjoyed Noah’s audio book, “Born a Crime.” So, when I was treated to this splendidly illustrated fable of a young boy and his teddy bear, I knew I was in for a different version of Noah’s imagination.
For anyone who has read, “Born a Crime” they will know he had a complicated relationship with his mother. For those who haven’t, please consider listening to the audio version. He is the narrator, and he is amazing in the telling of his own story.
With this one, he lets readers know immediately in the introduction that this story is “inspired by a conflict” with his mother. And, thus we are off and running to learn why through this lovely illustrated adventure that is not necessarily a children’s book for kids but “a book for kids to share with parents and for parents to share with kids.”
What happens when the boy chooses to defy his mother’s rules on this particular Saturday? And, instead heads out on his own with his teddy bear, Walter? Will there be lessons to learn on the way? What could possibly happen when he chooses to play and adventure amongst the “uncut grass?”
This is a story of imagination and exploration – of rules and freedom and the power of connection for a young boy. It is thoughtful and engaging and easy-to-read for readers of all ages. With a particularly different and discussable ending.
And, it is especially encouraging in the way it can bring families together to discuss the importance of why parents/adults might set rules, and why children might want certain freedoms. Which is why this would make a great discussion book for families and teachers/kids in school.
This is Ruth Ann’s story about her family with her parents and her sister. The focus is the year 1967 when she was 11 and her sister Annie was 8. And,This is Ruth Ann’s story about her family with her parents and her sister. The focus is the year 1967 when she was 11 and her sister Annie was 8. And, as readers, we will wonder if evil could possibly have walked through the door of the home that year to try and taint the innocence.
So, what does evil look like? And, how could it possibly be dressed in the likes of family, too?
Especially when children are supposed to trust their grandfather, right?
As readers, we wonder, how Ruth Ann will be able to protect her younger sister, Annie from their cruel and prejudice grandpa and his blue truck.
What? How can we as readers possibly look at the blue truck as anything else other than transportation? Well, when it is in the hands of evil…
Enter Dr. Molly, a compassionate veterinarian, whose love and guidance provides a lot of what the girls come to want at a time of need.
They are also surrounded by the love and companionship of their dog, named Buddy, and cat, named Beets, and some other kittens, and puppies who happen to be under the care of Dr. Molly.
But when the hatred, vile, prejudice and unkindness of Ruth Ann and Annie’s grandpa threatens their stability, and loving home, will they all be able to eventually find their voice, redefine family and feel a true sense of community?
The author shares a compelling, character-centered story about a complicated family, that also focuses on the struggles, sexism, and difficulties within, including LGBTQ+ issues for the times.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
Sometimes we can find friendship and books in the most unexpected places. And, when we do, that we not make assumptions about others.
This is truly a Sometimes we can find friendship and books in the most unexpected places. And, when we do, that we not make assumptions about others.
This is truly a book that shows kids not to be so quick to judge others just because of how they may look or act based on what they were “born” to be.
And, even if that wasn’t the intended “learning” lesson, it certainly can be one from this sweetly illustrated book about a flying dragon named Franklin that loved to read.
And, a young girl, named Luna who befriended Franklin and found a way to make books and an unconventional bookshop available to the town.
Some of my neighbors call me the Book Whisperer. When they come by my Little Free Library Shed and I am present, they ask me to suggest books to read,Some of my neighbors call me the Book Whisperer. When they come by my Little Free Library Shed and I am present, they ask me to suggest books to read, and I usually will hand them a book that I think might appeal to them, and they go off hopeful that I selected the right book. And, I go back in my house hopeful that I did the same.
In this case, with this book, my 77-year-old neighbor brought this book to me. He said he had a love-hate relationship with this author, and was anxious to hear what I thought about it. He felt because I loved dogs, that I might like her stories about the dogs. (No spoilers from me.)
Willow, an Asian transgender, comes to my LFL at least once a week. The other day we had the opportunity to talk about books and how much they appreciated all the variety of books I made available in my LFL. Will they like this one perhaps for all the questions about life it brings up?
The reason I am sharing my thoughts and ‘role’ as a Book Whisperer, is that this is what I love about my LFL. The experience of what books bring to our neighborhood. Discussion. About all kinds of books. And, a sense of community. We need more books, and connection, and the ability to just have civil discussion about life in general with each other in our crazy, mixed-up world these days. Right?
This book won the English-Speaking Union’s Ambassador Book Award for Fiction in 2007. It was also named one of “The Ten Best Books of the Year” by the New York Times in 2006 and was a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award in 2007. Hempel won the Rea Award for the Short Story in 2008 and she received the PEN/Malamud Award for Short Fiction in 2009.
Hempel’s “Collected Stories” is made up of four slim volumes of previously published stories: ‘Reasons to Live,’ ‘At the Gates of the Animal Kingdom,’ ‘Tumble Home,’ and ‘The Dog of the Marriage.’
In many ways the stories are weird, unsettling, disquieting, and yet, amazingly expressive. They epitomize the true short story, by being blissfully short. Sometimes humorous, but even when they are, it takes a moment to get the joke.
And, who exactly are Hempel’s narrators? Do we want to know them? How can we even describe them? If readers eventually get them, through her story “Offertory” maybe it will make sense. And, that is all that will matter. Because that is what is so interesting about her – to read her is an experience. An individual one. Just like what my 77-year-old neighbor was describing. He felt different things about her work. And, so did I. I have a feeling if you give her a chance, you will, too. ...more
If you are looking for a quirky, off-beat, doesn’t follow the rules kind of story, this is it. It is translated from Polish, and was first published iIf you are looking for a quirky, off-beat, doesn’t follow the rules kind of story, this is it. It is translated from Polish, and was first published in 2009. But even if the story is 16 years old, that doesn’t seem to date it. There is still a contemporary feel to it when we consider the subject of nature and how humans impact it through hunting and their innate cruelty to animals. (Some things don’t change.) Also, consider the cruelty, a trigger warning.
I picked this one up at my local library on one of my outings, and forgot to list it on my currently reading list. I am now providing my review for Goodreads.
This book is also written by a controversial feminist writer who was the Polish winner of the 2018 International Man Booker prize for her novel, “Flights.” She also won in the same year the Nobel Prize in Literature for “a narrative imagination that with encyclopedic passion represents the crossing of boundaries as a form of life.” The award was postponed due to controversy within the Swedish Academy.
This story follows an older woman named Janina, who lives in a secluded Polish village near the Czech-Polish border. There is a mystery that surrounds her as dead bodies of men start to show up. And, it appears that it could have to do with acts of revenge by animals on the local hunters. But are the animals able to commit these acts? Or, do they have someone doing this on their behalf?
These questions will be the mystery for readers to ponder. Thus, this becomes the murder mystery that doesn’t seem to follow the general rules of typical storytelling.
For anyone willing to go with the flow, this story proves intriguing and somewhat compelling. And, since it is a short book, it doesn’t take long for the ending to wrap it’s story up to help readers understand what was really happening all along. Or does it?
So, is there a moral lesson being demonstrated here? Or, is it a political statement? Do we need to consider how we as humans behave towards animals? Or, towards nature? Are we as humans, forgetting how to respect the innocence of the natural world? Or, women? Perhaps there is something to also be said of our dismissal of the invisible Janina, too? Are we being reminded of how we treat the elderly, too? i.e., - once they age out, we forget them, and don’t listen to them any longer?
Which makes this book a rather fascinating book discussion selection. ...more
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