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
Did you ever have that moment where you walk into a book and your emotions immediately flare up? Now, granted this one is historical fiction. It’s notDid you ever have that moment where you walk into a book and your emotions immediately flare up? Now, granted this one is historical fiction. It’s not like we don’t already know the history it is based on. And, that we are here in 2025. But I think that was the point for me. We are here in 2025. Shouldn’t we have changed by now? Grown and learned from the experiences of the past?
I barely got through one sentence and I was already feeling heartbroken. ...more
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
Another Good Morning America Book Club pick found its way to my Little Free Library Shed by way of donation. This one was just released last month (OcAnother Good Morning America Book Club pick found its way to my Little Free Library Shed by way of donation. This one was just released last month (October, 2025).
“What is it about love that makes us think we can tame it, when all the while it is taming us?”
There is no denying that Mitch Albom is a master storyteller.
In this novel, we find Alfie, our main protagonist, in the hotseat being grilled by a detective who is convinced he did not win two million dollars legitimately from the local casino in the Bahamas which Alfie then wired to an unknown benefactor.
As Alfie sits calmly on the other side of the table, he attempts to explain to Detective LaPorta that he has not stolen the money, and that if he read his manuscript, better known as ‘the composition book’ addressed to his Boss, it would explain everything to him. And, as the story unfolds, the more skeptical the detective becomes. And, the more curious we become as readers.
Of course, as readers, we are given the opportunity to suspend disbelief. And, as we do, we are led into a tale of magical realism, a bit of time travel, a love story, sprinkled with incredible second chances.
“A gift. …to do things twice in …life. …go back in time, and, redo events.”
And, it is the second chances that keep readers truly engaged in attempting to discover what the mystery of Alfie is all about, just as the detective is hoping to get him behind bars for the perceived “stealing” of the casino’s money.
But will the detective succeed? Or, will something convince him that Alfie is truly innocent?
And, who is the Boss, that Alfie is writing to in the composition book?
Readers will be pulled in a variety of directions as they attempt to unravel the mystery of Alfie, along with Detective LaPorta, as he searches for answers, too. What will we all discover by the end?
This story is...Compelling. Lovely. Thought-full. Spell-binding. Unputdownable. As well as Magical. Hearts will undoubtedly be tugged by this easy-to-read, quick, page-turning tale. Have your Kleenex handy....more
This is the beginning of a new series for the author. This first book is set in Cape Cod. Over a one-week period. And for readers, how can you not helThis is the beginning of a new series for the author. This first book is set in Cape Cod. Over a one-week period. And for readers, how can you not help but be mesmerized by the scenic beauty and mouth-watering food described by the author?
Is this the ‘sandwich’ of the story, or just a metaphor?
Actually, there is more to the meaning of ‘sandwich’ here. Which makes this a perfect title for this book.
What does it mean when one is considered the “sandwich generation?” In simple terms, it refers typically to working adults who are concurrently caring for both their children and their aging parents.
And in this case, it is Rocky’s story, from her point of view. Rocky is a woman in her 50’s who is going through menopause and managing her aging parents and soon-to-leave-the-nest children. The story realistically highlights that feeling of being in the middle, and not quite knowing how successful one will be in managing it all. As well as, the struggles of being both a mother and a daughter and coming to terms with decisions from the past, as well as making decisions in present time.
And, as serious as this sounds, it still has a way of being a humorous and readable story that is also relatable.
Have our kids already grown up so fast? And, when did our parents get this old?
I remember a few years ago, when my husband and I were the ‘chosen’ ones to take care of our aging parents, suffering from onset forms of dementia (my husband’s parents) and Parkinsons dis-ease with Lewy Body dementia (my mother). Our siblings helped as best they could, but from a distance. So, the full responsibility of their care, fell on us. And, even if our kids were grown and raising their own families and living their independent lives, they still had a way of needing us, too. And, when all those responsibilities hit us, at once, it sometimes felt challenging, taxing, worrying, hard and emotional. Lots of big decisions to make, while sometimes flying from the seat of our pants, to do so.
With this story, in many ways, it almost reads like a series of contemplative thoughts on being a mother and going through menopause. Appreciating the memories of when the kids were young, to recognizing where things are now in this ‘sandwich’ circumstance.
As much as this stage of life is behind me, who couldn’t relate to the challenges of how all these physical and emotional changes can affect someone’s well-being? Especially when we are talking about menopause.
And yet, the author has a way of making us giggle through a lot of those hormonal moments. As unfunny as it may all feel at the time. But Rocky’s behavior didn’t always make her the most likable character.
Still, the moments felt real, and believable. Making this story rather engaging and heart-felt.
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.
“Now I hold my life in my hands and feel its warmth. I breathe gently on the embers. I make them glow.”
How many of us ever consider the impact of our “Now I hold my life in my hands and feel its warmth. I breathe gently on the embers. I make them glow.”
How many of us ever consider the impact of our ONE STAR reviews? Having written a few, I know I contemplate everything before attaching any stars to my review. Especially if it is going to be just ONE STAR.
Why?
Because there is a chance that someone reading my review may make a decision about the book based on my opinion of it. And, that matters to me.
Before attaching that lonely one star⭐️, I examine and think about all aspects of my feelings, reactions, observations and concerns about the book, prior to assigning stars.
But I also know that regardless of my rating, in many ways I am somewhat anonymous. Unimportant. Just a person reading a book and offering my thoughts on it. I am not attached to a major newspaper, or magazine, or online blog, or YouTube program, or part of a celebrity circuit in which what I have to say really matters…on a large stage.
So, when our character, Alex Lyons, who is deeply ensconced in theatre, and happens to write for a popular newspaper, that ONE STAR review reaction to the show he just watched…it matters. To his readers. And, they will most likely respond in kind to his powerful words. By probably not attending the show he just openly lambasted.
What he doesn’t expect is what Hayley, the ‘target’ of this review, will do in kind. Because his words also mattered to her. Especially after humiliating her with a one-night stand, as well, when she didn’t know who he was and how his words would impact her.
And, this is the crux of the story. Her reaction to him. His reaction to what she does. And, how we as readers are supposed to feel about either of them.
Sophie, a colleague of Alex’s is our narrator. And, through her words we learn more about all that occurred, as well as Alex’s ‘qualities.’ And what Hayley has created based on Alex’s so-called reputation.
This is Runcie’s debut novel. She has a thoughtful, lyrical way with words that can easily impact readers as she provides us with so many moments to breathe in.
“…he kissed her. And it rose within him, that addictive one-night-only falling in love feeling, taking him over like a warm bloom of drunkenness.”
Still, as readers we can’t help but hope there are learning lessons here. For these two characters. About understanding, forgiveness, caring about the impact of their words.
And, that becomes the interesting journey for readers, too. The question being, will we connect to Alex and Hayley? And, hope for the best possible ending? Especially if we question our own ‘feelings’ about these characters and their ‘issues.’ Because even if Alex is displayed in a certain way, did what Hayley do make her any better? (No spoilers from me.)
Amusing at times, compelling at others, this book would make for a great book discussion selection. As well as an opportunity for any of us to pause as we consider the impact of any of our reviews.
Still, having said that, it truly is a pleasure to write and read reviews, through words and stars, that share exactly what we experienced from our reading journey. Some of our profile pages share our own interpretation of what each star means to us. And yes, it would be nice if Goodreads provided .5 ⭐️opportunities for ratings. But they don’t, even if we do.
So, here is mine for this book…
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up for making us think. About actions and reactions.
I’d like to offer my appreciation to the author who is also an arts journalist, for what she shares in her ‘Thank You’ section at the end…
“To everyone whose work I’ve ever reviewed: thank you for making something worth talking about.”
October, 1895. Granville. Normandy coast of France.
There are many passengers of a variety of classes, innocently and unknowingly boarding a train heaOctober, 1895. Granville. Normandy coast of France.
There are many passengers of a variety of classes, innocently and unknowingly boarding a train headed for disaster.
Based on a true story, the author introduces readers to the experience of what it is like to be on this train before disaster strikes. With characters readers are uncertain who is leading to this probable ‘tragic’ end. Or why. Or even if they are the cause of what is to happen. Thus, a tension builds along the way leading readers to suspect and question everything.
And yet, that isn’t the main point of the story.
The story builds traction also because of its characters.
The tremendous cast of characters is a statement on the randomness of social standing, races and nationalities who just happen to be in the same ‘locked room.’
And, as readers, we come to understand, that this train, is headed in the same direction, with all these characters – and something, is going to happen, maybe because of one of them – or not.
And, for the most part, each character was based on a real historical person. Even the train itself, felt like a character – Granville, Engine 721.
Making this story, truly character-driven.
The question for readers…will anyone survive?
This book is a riveting narrative that also serves as a sharp social commentary. Which makes it a good historical book discussion selection.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end to find out what really happened with the train and its passengers in 1895....more
Walking into this story, it became clear from the onset, that this book title fit the character perfectly. This is my first Joy Fielding novel, and I Walking into this story, it became clear from the onset, that this book title fit the character perfectly. This is my first Joy Fielding novel, and I doubt it will be my last, now that I have had a chance to experience her well-crafted, well-paced and intricate writing style.
Jenny Cooper is a 92-year-old resident of Legacy Place, a memory care facility. Jenny has dementia and a secret. And, while on the way to visit her friend Carol who also lives at Legacy Place, 76-year-old, recently widowed Linda Davidson, learned from Jenny her secret. But is her secret believable?
When a suspicious death occurs at Legacy Place, could Jenny’s secret be true?
Surprisingly, Linda enjoys visiting Jenny, and begins to find comfort in this unlikely friendship, with her. Especially now that her daughter has come to live, with her, which also includes her not so very nice, manipulative, unlikable son-in-law, Mick.
How will Jenny’s secret guide Linda through the ongoing machinations of Mick?
This easy-to-read, thought-provoking, page-turning, somewhat predictable mystery, also provides a very delectable ending. Dare we have such thoughts?! ...more
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.
What would you do if your 18-year-old daughter was charged with murder? Would you do anything in your power to make sure she was proven innocent?
ANYTWhat would you do if your 18-year-old daughter was charged with murder? Would you do anything in your power to make sure she was proven innocent?
ANYTHING?
This is the dilemma facing Stella’s parents. Her father a respected pastor and her mother, a successful criminal defense attorney.
But what of the victim? The one that was murdered. Was he a good guy?
Or…not? And, should that even matter?
So, did she, or didn’t she… kill him?
In this interesting, fast-paced, intricately compelling, deliberate, engrossing story told from multiple points of view, readers will be taken on a moral journey in which they will be asking themselves the ultimate question, too.
Will you, or won’t you do anything in your power…?
A great family and courtroom drama and book discussion selection.
She is brilliant. She is capable. She is bright. She has aspirations and goals. But she was not expected to be anything more than what she is. But doeShe is brilliant. She is capable. She is bright. She has aspirations and goals. But she was not expected to be anything more than what she is. But does she have to accept this, or can she create something more for herself?
Well…It only took a moment to create a change. And, she took it.
But what did this reinvention of herself set in motion?
Meet Ami Shah a successful businesswoman. But is she really who she says she is?
She is at the top of the industry with a product that is gaining recognition, and everyone wants to know more about her. She is also up for one of the most prestigious awards in the industry. But she doesn’t want it. So, why is Ami so resistant to this public attention?
“Was it worth it?”
Does someone know her secret?
Will heading back to her past help her resolve her present and her future?
“The Gates of Hope.” “All, except for those of us who had been left there.”
What will it be like to face the past? What will it be like to face Ami Shah?
As pages turn, readers wonder who is taunting her and why. Is someone out to ruin her company – or is it something more?
“Some people’s lives are limited from the moment they are born. Do they deserve less because of the circumstances in which they were raised?”
So, was it worth it?
In this taut, page-turning, compelling, character-driven story, readers will also have an inside view of the corporate world. Through the author’s lens, readers will gain access to the corporate boardroom which highlights scenes of ambition, competition, compromise and power structures that affect lifestyle choices and chronic occupational stress reactions. (Hence: the title of the book!)
This story also highlights classism, gender bias and intersectionality, creating unique challenges for individuals, especially lower-income women of color which makes this a perfect book discussion selection.
This is also a thoughtful, and heart-felt story of friendship, the burden of lies and betrayal, the beauty of second chances and an understanding of what family truly means.
Be sure to read the Author’s Note.
I was a lucky winner of this book in the Facebook Readers Coffeehouse Great Big Book Giveaway on August 19, 2025. I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
The book world. We typically experience it from our own perspective. As readers. And, as reviewers. But what about as a literary agent“Let’s get lit!”
The book world. We typically experience it from our own perspective. As readers. And, as reviewers. But what about as a literary agent. A literary agent who sees themselves as a ‘Pitch Queen.’ (Hence: the title of the book.)
Claire, our main protagonist, seeks debut authors, and makes a pitch to represent them for the best publishing contract. Could she find an author that would be worthy of a million-dollar contract? Or link them to a Good Morning America Book of the Month pick, too? Possibly even placing them on the New York Times best-selling list? Because if anything, getting that one author could possibly make Claire a partner at her agency.
All she needs is that one author.
This is the behind-the-scenes type of book world we as readers/reviewers don’t typically see, and this is the world that Gillespie invites us into as we follow Claire on her journey to find that author. The one that she can cultivate and see to final publication. Or what it might look like to coddle an author’s delicate ego. The author. The client.
As Claire navigates her world, she is also addressing her own personal challenges.
But at what cost will her desire to climb the ladder be? Will Claire learn something about herself when she has to face some uncomfortable truths of the personal cost of being the Pitch Queen?
Which leads Claire to some self-discovery, some possible changes that will invite new opportunities, and perspectives she did not anticipate.
“Dearest Writer.”
And, sometimes this something new and different and unexpected is all that was needed.
Is it possible to reinvent oneself?
Readers will be treated to the scenic Gull Island, Georgia backdrop (“there’s a Little Library on almost every corner”), lots of book quotes and real book discussions throughout that just might enhance their reading experience. Along with a well-developed, colorful cast of characters.
This book provides a contemporary, unhurried, well-crafted, sometimes sweetly, multi-level, romantic story that should appeal to most book lovers.
Especially, those of us who enjoy gathering around for those book club spirited discussions, or experiencing all the feels because we love when we connect so easily to the characters and are rooting for their best outcomes.
But there is also something to be said about what we as readers/reviewers can learn in a fiction story that gives us insights into the how-to of what marketing takes place to sell a book to publishers, as well as the public.
The author also graces the pages with book names and quotes of well-known books that many of us may have read. How can we not feel a sense of longing to crawl back in to one of those books again?
“Once upon a time there was a boy who loved a girl, and her laughter was a question he wanted to spend his whole life answering.” – The History of Love” by Nicole Krauss
My heart goes out in appreciation to Karin Gillespie for all those swoon worthy moments of book worthy memories. Thank you. Along with so many of her own sweet quotes I have included here, and below.
“They’ll love it. The book is very clever. And even if a few don’t like it, that’s fine. Novel tastes are so subjective.”
“The fact is I stayed up all night. Reading a novel. A wonderful, life-affirming novel.”
“Early Goodreads reviewers raved.”
Count me as one of them.
I was a lucky winner of this book in the Facebook Readers Coffeehouse Great Big Book Giveaway on August 19, 2025. I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
There were moments I thought I would like this book. I had read about the use of magical realism, and that usually is a go-to-escape read for me. BecaThere were moments I thought I would like this book. I had read about the use of magical realism, and that usually is a go-to-escape read for me. Because who wouldn’t be intrigued about the possibility that a perfume made especially for them could change their life, and manifest everything they ever thought they needed or wanted?
“…This is no ordinary perfume. …It is extraordinary. It will change your life. It is untitled. It is your story to write.”
And, I loved that Iris, our main protagonist, the receiver of said perfume, also had a cute dog, named Hugo that everyone seemed to adore and gravitate to – of course! But Iris, just seemed to find herself in so many situations and circumstances that were questionable at best, that even magical realism couldn’t seem to save the storyline from being a bit exasperating (for me).
And, even as I went back to the point of how the perfume could make a difference, I really wondered if she would have eventually found her confidence on her own, by just believing in herself in the first place.
“I want you to feel your power and to show the world what you’re capable of. But above all, I want you to get what you want.”
At what price, Iris? At what price, readers?
Because, the number of subplots with difficult social issues – sexual harassment, drug use, sexual abuse, jealousy amongst women, seemed a bit over-the-top, as well. Still, having said all this, I could be an outlier.
Also, on the possible good side, with these kinds of topics, it certainly opens the door for great discussions in book groups. And, sometimes, even books that don’t get the greatest star ratings, are still extraordinary discussion books.
“This book is dedicated to a simple idea: to have the future we want, we need to build and invent more of what we need.”
I’m not sure this book has wha“This book is dedicated to a simple idea: to have the future we want, we need to build and invent more of what we need.”
I’m not sure this book has what it will take to achieve that simple idea, but I appreciate both authors intentions.
I really admire Ezra Klein. Especially as a commentator and journalist. I first appreciated his book, “Why We’re Polarized.” If interested, I have included a link to my review below.
So, when I heard he had a new book out, I immediately ordered a copy from my local library in April of this year. It just came through this month (August 2025).
I’m not sure what I expected, but this wasn’t an easy read, especially as I attempted to read this while witnessing before me, my country being toppled down by the current Trump administration and the GOP. Yes, I realize this is my opinion. And, I sadly own it. ...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.
“What’s the best thing about being a storyteller? That’s easy. You get to cheat…to live many lives, not just the one you’re born to.”
Sometimes reading “What’s the best thing about being a storyteller? That’s easy. You get to cheat…to live many lives, not just the one you’re born to.”
Sometimes reading certain books are like having conversations with best friends. Where we can talk so openly with each other. Like sharing about our greatest fears, or the sensitivities we have about our families.
This book of essays is called ‘Life and Art.’ And, that in a sense is the beauty of what this book is all about – Russo giving his readers an inside view into his writing process. How many authors do this for us? Giving us the feeling that we are his best friends. Important people to him, because we are his readers. The ones he intends on pleasing. Telling us about…
Life.
And, the art of the story.
How they both relate. How they both come to be. For him. And, in so doing, how it relates to us. The reader. Him essentially breaking down his writing process. For us. And, maybe for himself, too.
I loved being in the midst of “Life and Art” where he is telling it like it is in his honest and in-your-face kind-of-way. And, I love the way he shares with his open heart, too. So much so, that I have to believe his essays – stories, were cathartic for him.
I have been reading this book, in-between novels. And, as I finished the last page, I couldn’t help but be amazed by a sea of sticky notes staring back at me. Where was I going to place all the ‘quotes’ of what he said that stood out to me?
Well, as it so happens, I decided to add a few to the famous author’s Goodreads quotes pages. Please check out some of those below. Maybe some will have meaning for you, too? If so, click on the ones you like, and they will be added to your profile page, too.
So much of what he shared resonated with me. His discussion of his feelings, thoughts, observations, experiences, life in general, observations of others, America – yesterday – today – a probable future? …wow. I was so there with him.
So much about what Russo writes in his fiction I have truly appreciated. But certainly, this discussion in his essays were so – real and raw.
Of course, be-ing an open-minded reader helps. And, even if he isn’t writing from a political point-of-view, his writer’s perspective helps to showcase his observations with an open heart and directness. Which really is the first part of his essays – the life of the story.
I need to pause for a moment.
Interestingly enough, as I am reading this book on essays, Oprah just shared that his book, “Bridge of Sighs” was announced as her August 2025 book pick. Not that he needed her attention for anyone to read his book or books, but I am glad she chose him. “Bridge of Sighs” https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... was originally published in 2007. It centered on small-town life in upstate New York. And, it certainly deserves a re-release. One I haven’t yet reviewed, but remember was a hit with our library book discussion group when we discussed it years ago.
Back to this book.
To be honest, I could feel everything he was discussing in his ‘life’ section as if it had personally happened to me, too. I think as readers connect with the subjects in his essays (particularly his discussions about the pandemic), I have a feeling it will hit some personal notes for some, too.
And then, there are the subjects of:
Anxiety. Family life experiences. The impacts of family life decisions on him as a person and his role as an author and playwright. And, how it affected him, and the creation of his characters. The perspective he brought to his stories/characters because of these observations/experiences.
And, then there is the second half of the book… the art of the story. What he refers to as “the lives of others.”
The character development.
“…The how of writing a story that requires some degree of transcendence: how do you go about bridging the gap between what you know and what you don’t and sometimes can’t?”
In other words, he may create a character based on someone he met, but now he embellishes that character so that it fits his narrative. And thus, a story is born.
The art. Of the story.
There is so much to appreciate about what Russo shares within these pages. It is like a masterclass in fiction writing for anyone who loves to write, or even read.
And, as we consider his words, we can be reminded about how much we are all touched by words and conversations. And, our humanity in feeling things. Deeply.
When we read books, we connect to characters for so many different reasons. Why not connect to an author, and appreciate their innerworkings, too.
Russo opened his personal door to readers through his essays by inviting us in. I recommend this book as a wonderful invitation into the mind of an author.
A couple of last notes.
Especially touching was his discussion about Paul Newman. Completely heart-felt. For all the right reasons. And, lastly his words about George Floyd. There is so much more for us to grow and learn as humans caring about others.
If you are unfamiliar with Richard Russo the author, or haven’t read him yet, consider picking up one of his books. Certainly, now that Oprah is recognizing him this month, might be a good time to start! My favorite will always be, “Straight Man.” Certainly, reading his book of essays is always recommended, too. Like this one....more
E. Jean Carroll. She told the truth. Twice. She was believed. Twice. She won a lot of money. Twice. And the justice awarded to her continues to rise iE. Jean Carroll. She told the truth. Twice. She was believed. Twice. She won a lot of money. Twice. And the justice awarded to her continues to rise in value. ($100 million and counting.)
And, her intentions for that money are perfect! All the things he hates.
And, she has the best sense of humor. Throughout this memoir, trial tell-all.
I listened to the book along with reading the hardcover copy. As much as I hated what this man, the future and current President of the United States put her through, I absolutely loved her for her courageousness and brave sense of self. Even if she didn’t always see herself that way.
This is mostly her story about the sexual assault and defamation trials. It also is her story of what may not have been shared at trial. And, for those of us who detest men who think they can sexually assault women and get away with it, the sad part is that even though he was held accountable through this assault against her – there are still many in this country that voted for this rapist to be President. There is something very sad about their choosing to do so.
Still, E. Jean Carroll is to be celebrated for her pluckiness and voice. And, because of her case, New York re-visited and expanded the “rape is rape” bill.
For those interested in reading her side of the story, this is a compelling, enjoyable, and, thoughtful look at a woman not afraid of bullies, or taking a stark look at herself. A new kind of she-ro.
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