Book #75 - Northern Lights by Nora Roberts

Another great one from Nora Roberts. My sister-in-law and I both think you cannot go wrong with one of hers. I was skeptical about this one because I wasn't sure she culd hold my attention for the 700+ pages of this book. However, I truly enjoyed her descriptions of the beauty and wild of Alaska, the love story, and the crime. I found on page 472 there was a very profound line about heroism that I want to share with my avid reader(s). "Heroism's just doing more than you want to do or think you can. Sometimes it's just doing the crappy things, the unhappy things other people won't do. I feel as though this will probably be the last book I will read this year. Ironic that I started and ended the 100 book mission with Nora. Maybe it wasn't a full 100 books, but 75 isn't to shabby for anyone!

Book #74 - The Emperor's Tomb by Steve Berry

This was another classic thriller from Steve Berry, and it was well worth the wait. Again, Cotton Malone and Cassopeia Vitt were in this book, but this one took them on a wild ride to the back country of China. This one gave us insight to the political structure and past history of China while tying in a fast paced story line. I found myself wondering how much of this book was true. Other than what you learn in your middle school history class, you hardly hear of China. So much is done to close out the world their government. I highly recommend this book, even if you haven't read his other books, you can catch on to the relationships between the characters. I guarantee that after reading this book, you'll get all of is other books. He's a tremendous writer and his books are so enjoyable.

Book #73 - Blue Dahlia by Nora Roberts

I actually started this book prior to reading the Grisham book and finally got around to finishing it. It is the first book in the Garden Trilogy, and I have to say that Nora really let me down on this one. Unlike her other series of books, I have no interest in scrounging up the second book. For whatever reason, I did not feel the connection to the characters in this book. I thought the plot was a little forced, and the ending was far too rushed. I'm excited I'm done because Steve Berry's new book came in the mail next week. School ending next week too, so much more time can be dedicated to my hobby.

Book #72 - Happy Ever After by Nora Roberts

This is the fourth, and unfortunately final, book in the bride quartet series, and it was worth the wait to see how Parker's story turned out. Nora weaved another unique and believable love story with this one, and I found on the last pages I was tearing up while making a goofy smile. I feel a small sadness that the journey with these four women is over because Nora does such an exceptional job of making you feel a part of the story rather than just a spectator. Again, I want to see what the future weddings will be like, if they will have children, if they will all continue to live on the Brown Property, etc. I highly recommend the entire series for an easy yet blissful read.

Book #71 - The Confession by John Grisham

So, it took me a month, but I've finally finished this book. Please do not take that as a reflection on this book and what I thought of it. Between school, Will, and pregnancy fatigue, I just haven't been reading like I was at the start of the year. This book was excellent. Grisham makes the reader take a deep, hard look at the death penalty and the severity of executing the wrong guy. Talk about a mistake that cannot be undone. Initially, I thought the most gut-wrenching part of the book was when Donte was put to death and exonerated the next day, but I was wrong. The last page, held the most sickening realization in the book...people just don't care, and the death penalty will remain the status quo. Why is it that the conservative right sees no problem with executing adults with no remorse or feeling that they have broken one of the ten commandments, but the very same people go crazy on a woman who chooses not to carry a unwanted pregnancy to term. I'm not trying to make this blog a political statement or express my beliefs. Rather, I'm simply trying to bring to light an incredible double standard that seems to be more pronounced from day to day.

Book #70 - The Plum Pudding Murder by Joanne Fluke

I was pleasantly surprised with this book. Like the previous in this series, it is light-hearted and fairly suspenseful. Previous books always started with Hannah Swensen (local busy-body) finding a dead body within the first 2 chapters. However, the author mixed it up this time. It took nearly 200 pages for the murder to happen because the author used a little flash back flash forward to tell the story. It made it far less redundant. Ended with another near-death experience for the heroine and of course she helped catch the bad guy. Book was again loaded with new recipes for cookies and other treats, and I have to say that I was for the first time enticed enough by three of them to run copies and perhaps try them.

Book #69 - Pendragon by D.J. MacHale

This is a book that I would never have picked out for myself for two main reasons. First, it is written for middle schoolers, and second, it is sci-fi. But, when I told my students at the start of this year that I was trying to read 100 books this year, one of the young ladies asked if she brought me a book, would I read it. I said of course. It is has been sitting on my desk for about a month, and I thought I'd better read it or I'd disappoint my student. I have to say that it was a great book. Very creative and really kept me interested. Although the language was simpler, I did not get the feeling I was reading something that was too juvenile for me. This is the type of book that will keep kids reading, and I'm really glad that it was recommended to me.

Book #68 - The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson

This is the third and final installment of the series starring journalist Mikael Blomkvist and computer hacker Lisbeth Salander. Unlike going from book 1 to book 2 (which was a whole new story line), this was a continuation of book 2. And, I thought this was the best of the three book. It was absolutely fantastic. This book contained a very interesting look into the secret police of Sweden as well as their judicial system, and I have to say, I find the way they run their courtrooms far more efficient and logical than in an American courtroom. The third book ended with enough closure that you do not feel a need for another book, but I have to say that I'm going to miss reading the adventures of these characters. As I've said in my blogs of the other two books, these movies will be fantastic if done right. The problem will be fitting 600 page books into 2 hour movies. One colleague from school said the Swedish version of the movie was fantastic, so lets hope they take a look at it before cutting the final copy of the movie.

Book #67 - The Whole Truth by David Baldacci

I know it seems like my reading mission has slowed to a crawl, and it actually has. With the start of school, it seems like I don't have the energy to read like I was before. So, because it took me so long to read this book, do not use it as a judgement on what I thought of this book. It was a great adventure, but not one typical of David Baldacci. If you had given me this book with no cover or title page, I would have thought it was a Brad Thor novel. This book really got you thinking about whether our entire political structure and decisions are totally controlled by propaganda that can be totally made up if you have enough money to hit all media outlets. The story was a great cat and mouse chase and had a very unpredictable ending. I highly recommend if you are up for a page-turning thriller, but you have to be able to stomach a little bit of gore.

Book #66 - The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson

This book is fantastic. 600 pages of pure adventure, intrigue, and suspense. One of my coworkers told me she didn't like it as much as the "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo", but I thought it was even better. I loved how intricate the plot was and how many layers were twisted into the story. Stieg Larsson was a phenomenal talent, and I am very saddened that he did not live to write more books. He obviously wanted to be a loud voice against violence, rape, and assault on women. It is an integral portion of both of his books I've read. If his book is true to the culture of Sweden, then women are less valuable to men than their personal belongings, cars, and motorcycles. Like I said after the first book, this will be a blockbuster in the movie theater.

Book #65 The Other Queen by Philippa Gregory

I only made it half way through this book, and I started it a month ago. Since I've not picked it up in two weeks, I've decided it is now on the "will not finish" list. This is a very profound statement because this is a rarety for me. I thought this would be really good, and I've read several of this genre I've enjoyed, but is was like watching paint dry. Philippa Gregory wrote "The Other Boleyn Girl" (I saw the movie and loved it), so I was super excited. This book is about Mary Queen of Scots and her battle with her cousin Queen Elizabeth I. Boring and drawn out. Don't even care anymore how it ends.

Book #64 - Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks

Wow! As usual, it is worth the year wait for his next bestseller soon to be blockbuster. This book was fantastic, scary, and intense with an absolutely beautiful ending. In addition, for the first time, I felt like Nicholas Sparks had an ulterior motive in his book. The underlying, yet screaming, theme of this book was spousal battery. There were incidents in this book that literally made me want to vomit. He also demonstrated the disgustingness of alcholism. Sparks painted a picture of courage and resolve in the heroine that was able with constant planning and viligance to escape the nightmare of an alcohol and abusive husband who started beating her the first day of their honeymoon. It took her four years to escape, and yet, he still hunted her down for one last standoff. This was one of Nicholas Sparks' finest works and just like at the end of all of them, I have a great sadness that I read it so fast and am not waiting for the next one.

Book #63 - The Justice Game by Randy Singer

I recognize my avid readers (Dad) are wondering what has happened to me in the last few weeks. Simply, school has started, and I'm too tired at night to read. It took me almost a week to read this short book, and it is not because it wasn't good..just tired. I find Randy Singer to be one of the most exciting new authors I have stumbled upon. This book was totally different than the one I read previously, but just as exciting and enticing. Like the other book, I did not figure out who the bad guy was until the author clued me in, and the inside look at the courts systems in the USA was eye-opening. Are there really businesses who do nothing but investigate potential jurors? Do they then set up "mirror juries" to predict who will win big cases? And are their hedge-fund guys betting on the odds? Probably. I have to say that after reading this book, I have even less faith in the justice system and that every person can get a fair and unbiased trial. Excellent, quick read.

Book #62 - Black Hills by Nora Roberts

So I'm still struggling my way through the book about Mary Queen of Scots that I started over two weeks ago. I may finish it one day, but frankly, it is boring and way too drawn out. On Saturday morning, I decided I need to read something enjoyable for my three day weekend, and this was a great choice. Obviously since it is Nora Roberts, there is a love story that ends just like you want it to, but the thriller side of this book was intense. I need to do a little research on Nora to find out if she was born and raised in this area of our country or if she fell in love with it later in life. It was so awesome to go back to the Black Hills through the eyes of the characters of this book. I feel like the clock was rewound six years ago from when I was there with my family. The book's setting is in an area of the Black Hills where the main character, Lil, has set up a Big Cat sanctuary. The description of these beautiful panthers, leopards, tigers, and mountain lions is extraordinary. It made me flash back to the horse sanctuary we came upon while we where in the Black Hills. Overall, this was a fantastic book, and she always has you coming back for more. I was so glad that all ended well, the murderer was caught, and the lovers will be living happily ever after. As always, I feel as though I know the characters, and I was dying for an epilogue to see where they were in 10 years, but it is not Nora's style. It is for us the readers to imagine where their lives take them.

Book #61 - Tough Cookie by Diane Mott Davidson

I know my avid readers were probably wondering what happened to me. Two things have keep my reading pace less than typical. First, school has been overwhelming the last week or so. Sometimes you forget how intense the start of a school year is. Second, I've actually been reading two books at the same time. I started a historical novel last week, and although it is very good, I needed something a little lighter. So, even though I was terribly dissapointed with the last book I read of hers, I figured I had already bought it, so I might as well read it. She redeemed herself with this one. It was a much better story, and I found I did not know who did it until the very last moment. She created just enough suspects to keep me wondering. This book was just the escape I needed from the intense days at work.

Book #60 - Private by James Patterson

I'm not really sure where to start with this book. I read it very quickly, and it was very captivating, however, I felt like it really fell short in the end. This is the story of a high-end Private Investigation company that works for the rich and famous. The story opens up with 3 high priority cases that are on the docket, and we are in on the investigation. I found that though there should have been a high level of suspense, it was really lacking. It took 250 pages to paint the picture, and within paragraphs, each of the stories ended in an anti-climatic way. I guess I should say it was disappointing, and definitely was not as good as some of Patterson's others. I feel like it lacked his inventiveness and really fell short of his usual high-octane thrillers. When I was on Amazon yesterday, I noticed it only received 3 stars (out of 5), and now I see why.

Book #59 - By Reason of Insanity by Randy Singer

Upon discussing this blog with my new boss (new principal at school), he told me his brother had written some books and would I be interested. As always, the answer was yes. Publisher weekly stated, "Singer is every bit as enjoyable as John Grisham." I have to say that is an understatement. I don't know that I have ever read a Grisham or a Baldacci for that matter that was as good as this book. High paced, intense, courtroom drama, uncertainty, surprising twists, and a deep love of the characters involved were just a few of the things that came to mind. Fantastically written, and Singer must have the imagination of a genius. I highly recommend this book, and not to worry, I will be reading his others. This is truly a "can't put it down." This is book #59, but it is quite possibly the best book I've read this year.

Book #58 - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

This book was thrilling, appalling, scary, captivating, and deeply intricate. Fantastically written, and also extremely well translated into English. Like I told my husband, this is going to be an awesome movie. I can't even begin to describe how deep and twisted the layers of this story are and how intense the different story lines were. It was almost like this book started with three distinct and separate story lines and seemed to have three endings that were all intimately tied together. This was one of the best books I've read in a long time, but I have to say the intensity was such that I'm going to have to take some time off before I start the sequel. There were extremely violent crimes involving women that were so disturbing and really made me think about how horribly women are treated all over the world. Often women are of less value to men than personal belongings, cars, homes, etc. Also weaved into the story line was thread about the financial systems of the world and all of those people making billions playing with money they don't have and betting on the quick sell. Obviously, Stieg Larsson was trying to make a political and personal statement by bringing to light these two very serious issues in Swedish culture and politics...who knows, maybe it led to his mysterious death.

Book #57 - Sizzling Sixteen by Janet Evanovich

Obviously, this is the sixteenth book in the series starring Stephanie Plum, the unlikely bounty hunter. I started reading this series seven years ago when a teacher at a previous school I worked at suggested it. I immediately fell in love with the humor and fast pace of these books, and I always look forward to June when new ones are released. With that being said, I did not particularly enjoy this one. I felt like it fell short of her usual standards. There were very few times where I laughed out loud, which is pretty typical with her other books. Part of me feels like I've grown tired of these crazy, outlandish adventures: always destroying a car, being rescued from deaths door, and never settling down with one of the two men in her life (to give a few examples). I guess what I'm saying is I'm ready for Stephanie Plum to grow up and move on. I often wondered how long Janet Evanovich could keep up this storyline, and I think it is time to think about a conclusion to the series.

Book #56 - Book of Souls by Glenn Cooper

This book really gets you thinking about some deep issues, like what if we knew the day we were to die and when the end of the world is coming. Would we want to know? Would we change how we are living? Would we set aside differences? I picked up this book because James Rollins (one of my favorite authors) dubbed him "a startling new talent." And, I figured great authors wouldn't just throw around a complement like that. Glenn Cooper takes a historical time period, a few real events and the major players in those events (including John Calvin, William Shakespeare, and Nostradamus) and twists an incredible, fast moving story around them. This was another book that made you stop and wonder what scary, destructive secrets the United States Government is sitting on. I don't want to share much more because I'm afraid I'll give away the best of the book. But, on a personal note, I don't want to know when the end of my days comes. I just plan to do what I've been doing, live each day like it is the last and be grateful for what I've got.

Book #55 - Innocent by Scott Turow

This is the sequel, 20 years later, to "Presumed Innocent." I have to say I never read "Presumed Innocent", but I have seen the movie starring Harrison Ford at least a dozen times. The writing style of this book drew you in hook, line, and sinker. The premise was that Rusty's (star from last book, AKA Harrison Ford character) wife died expectantly, and his old nemesis Molto starts to investigate it. The first part jumps back and forth chapter by chapter from pre-death to just after the death. Each chapter keeps you hanging so you cannot stop reading. This was a fantastic read, and Scott Turow can weave a story to rival any mystery/law writers out there. The lesson for all men worldwide is to keep "it" in your pants. Rusty's entire demise is because he couldn't keep from the younger ladies...like a compulsion. Not sure if he really liked any of the women that much, but rather the thrill of the sneaking around. This is a page turner to the very end, and even beyond. The author keeps you wanting for more and just curious enough to keep an eye out for one more run around with Rusty Sabich.

Book #54 - A Will and a Way by Nora Roberts

I've been reading a couple of books at the same time, and I happened to pick this one up the day before yesterday because I thought it would be a good finish to my summer vacation reading. This one is a mystery that is similar to the movie "Clue" and a book I read as a young girl called "The Westing Game." The plot draws you right in when at the reading of Uncle Jolly's will, all of the relatives but two are cut out. Those two will inherit 150 million dollars if they are willing to live for 6 months at his house together. In the mean time, there is a plot to prevent this from happening so all other family members can get their cut. Exciting and a fun, easy read. Interestingly, the main character, Pandora is a jewelry maker. Like my sister, she refuses to make cookie-cutter pieces just because. All of her pieces are unique and very non-mainstream. Kind of neat to see the artists perspective, thoughts, and creativity and how those are utilized to create beautiful works of art.

Book #53 - Opposites Attract by Nora Roberts

This book was originally released by Nora Roberts in 1984 and then re-released in 2008 in conjunction with another book. The book was about two tennis stars who were once in love, and rekindled there love three years after a devestating break up. The resounding lesson of this book is how communication, the lack of, or miscommunication can ruin relationships. If you stop and think about it, I bet 80-90% of all broken relationships are due to poor or non-existent communication. Why is it we as humans are afraid to say how we feel and just lay it out there with honesty and certainty? Another great love story, and as usual with Nora Roberts the ending was happy. Great summer read.

Book #52 - The Collectors by David Baldacci

This is the 4th or 5th book by Baldacci that I have read, but it is the first involving the four old guys in the "Camel Club". I have to say that by far this is the best I've read (although I really liked the Christmas Train). Not only was there great adventure, but for the first time in one of his books, I really liked and felt engaged with the characters. Interestingly, the first 200 pages had 2 very different very exciting plots going on simultaneously. It wasn't until page 205 that the link between the stories was divulged. There was great artistry in the story telling as well as a enticing plot. I have to say, I'm excited to pick up copies of the other Baldacci books starring the famous foursome: Oliver, Milton, Caleb, and Reuben. This one I'm sending to my brother who will devour it in 8 hours or so...

Book #51 - The Apostle by Brad Thor

This was the best of the Brad Thor books I've read. I literally could not put it down yesterday. This is the story of a female, American doctor who is kidnapped and held ransom by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Harvath, the main character of all of his books, is a retired Navy Seal, Special Ops, Secret Service guy who is sent in to get her. Not only was the action incredible, but the description of life in Afghanistan for the Afghan people was breathtaking. The locals are depicted as a beautiful tribal culture who believe that honor and respect are the utmost qualities you can have. Unfortunately, it is these very people caught in the wake of the Taliban's crusade. I cannot imagine what it is like day to day for the people of Afghanistan, and it is incredible the sacrifice and risk charitable organizations make just to go and help the natives of the country. Fascinating look into local customs, like offering tea to guests, and the social repercussions of refusing that offer. The action in the book was excellent, and I highly recommend this to someone who likes a fast paced thriller.

Book #50 - Summer Sisters by Judy Blume

For those of us who grew up with "Superfudge" and "Are you there God, it's Me Margaret?", I say, yes, this is the very same Judy Blume. Last week when my sister-in-law and I walked into the used bookstore, she asked if I had read any by Judy Blume. I said no, but asked if it was the same Judy Blume from my childhood. She said yes, and her books are great. Great was an understatement. First, I must say this is a chick book, so be warned of that. However, I started it today at noon and finished this evening. The review on the front of the book called it "compulsively readable." It was an incredible look at human nature and relationships. Sad in parts and uplifting in parts, but ended just right. The story had depth to it as well as a lightness that made it addicting. So here's to Judy Blume, you've still got it.

On a personal note, I have reached the half way point and am surprisingly still on track to pull off 100 books in one year. Looking forward to what I learn in the next 50 books.

Book #49 - The Elephant Keeper by Christopher Nicholson

I found this book at Costco in a pile with similar books like "Life of Pi" and thought it might be a winner. The start of the book gives a "History of Elephant" and is really the story of an Elephant, Jenny, brought off a ship in England in the 1700's and Tom, its keeper. This is a beautiful story of dedication and love between man and animal. I loved the description of Jenny, her personality, and her skill. However, mid-book, I began wishing it was over. There were some good parts sprinkled in there, but overall, the author bored me with endless, sad details of Tom's life. Definitely not as good as some of the others I've read this year. I'm just glad I get to move on to something else more captivating.

Book #48 - Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts

This was book three in the bride quartet and is the story of Laurel, the pastry chef. I have to admit that all of the talk of cakes almost made me run to the store to get ingredients to make my own. Needless to say, I was able to resist. This book was fabulous, and it left me feeling happy because Laurel got her dream guy. Funny that today I finished a paper on Romeo and Juliet (for my Mom's Humanities class), and I was thinking how pure and naive their love was and especially sad how it ended. "Savor the Moment" was another story of star crossed lovers that ended beautifully with nothing but happily ever after in their future. You would think it would get old to read Nora Roberts' books where they always end happy, but really it doesn't. I never grow tired of knowing it will end happy, and maybe that is why I go back to her. I know in the end I will be uplifted and satisfied. Not to dismiss those Nicholas Sparks books that end the way they should rather than always the way I want...there is a need for reality in love stories as well. But, as I said, they are feel good, and it is like coming back to a comfortable place. In case you are wondering, you will have to wait for the last installment of this series of books because it isn't released until November. Going to be painful, but I guess I'll make it.

Book #47 - The Devil's Queen by Jeanne Kalogridis

This book was the story of the life of Catherine de Medici the Italian born princess who became Queen of France. Fascinating insight to what live as a royal is really like. Cutthroat, conniving, and more political than even we American's can fathom. There were parts of this book that we so despicable that I could barely stomach it. It has been recorded that in real life, Catherine was involved in astrology and dark magic, and in this book, she used the darkest possible magic to help conceive her children. However, each one of her children had either physical or mental deformities. All of her sons were evil to their core, and she gave her life and soul to care for each of them. The other very interesting part of the book was how much constant war the Italians, French, and Spanish were involved in, and for the most part, they were about territory or religion. The book ended with a massive massacre of the French Protestants by the French Catholics. Gruesome. Again, if you like history but get bogged down by the dryness of nonfiction, these novels about real historical people are the way to go.

Book #46 Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts

This is the second book in the Bride Quartet series, and I really enjoyed this one as well. Light hearted love story that ended just right. However, I really enjoyed the independence, perseverance, and back-bone of the main character Emma. She refused to compromise what she was looking for in a life-long partner. She refused to settle for less than she deserved. Although she was a romantic and a bit old fashioned in what she wanted in a husband, she demonstrates that the modern, independent woman can have it all and doesn't have to give up some important part of herself to get the right fit in a mate. Very good book, and I look forward to reading the third book in the series and seeing how Laurel finds love.

Book #45 - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling

I know those of you who know me well thinks it is unfair of me to count this book on my 100 book journey because I think this is the fourth time I have read it. So, how did this come about? Why this book? Why now? Actually, quite by accident I chose to read this book again. Sunday night, my husband and I caught the 6th movie (which I own) on HBO and watched the end of it. The week prior, we saw the middle part of the same movie (the Half-Blood Prince) on the big screen on the cruise boat. Since I was waiting for the mail man (who is never in a rush to deliver my Amazon package since it requires her to get out of her truck, off the phone - so my husband says - and put the package on the porch) to bring my next batch of books, I told my husband I thought I wanted to reread the 7th one because I couldn't remember how it all ended. Of course, Harry triumphs and good defeats evil, but I couldn't remember all of the twists and turns in this book. You will all understand soon enough why they are doing the last book in two movies. There is so much packed in the nearly 700 pages, and none of it can be cut out or else the ending doesn't work. So now that my exceptionally long introduction is over, I'll get to it. First, J. K. Rowling is a genius. Those of us who love Harry Potter and love to read know that what she did in these seven books may never be repeated by another author ever again. She has written the greatest series of books of all time. I know what some of you are thinking, "what about Lord of the Rings; Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe; Star Wars"? J. K. Rowling blows them out of the water. Her story goes seven books, thousands of pages, creates a whole world WITHIN our world that we cannot see, inspires every age of reader, and all of the books are interwoven. I once saw an interview of her where she said she wrote the whole story at one time on a train ride. Her original outline had every bit of the seven stories (minus the detail). What a gift, and I'm so thankful she shared it with us. It is funny that often times when I get to the end of a series of books I feel sad because they are finished and I no longer have adventures of the characters to explore and enjoy; but this series keeps me coming back. Even after the movies came out (I actually saw the first movie and then decided to read the book...which was better of course), I still have come back to these books and have discovered new things within their pages. You could not force me to pick a favorite in the series because each one is necessary to complete the overall story.

I cannot wait for the day when my son and I begin this adventure together and I get to share the joy of these books with him. I know we will both look forward to bed time and reading a chapter or two each night. I will enjoy listening to his questions of what will happen next and how will Harry defeat his arch enemy. How wonderful was it during the 2008 presidential campaign to hear President Obama say he had to take a break from the campaign trail to go home and finish the last of the Harry Potter series with his daughter. That is what these books mean to all of us.

Book #44 - Teacher Man by Frank McCourt

My Dad bought me this book right after it came out in 2005 which just so happened to be my first year as a teacher. I had read and thoroughly enjoyed "Angela's Ashes", so I was excited to read about the latter part of Frank McCourt's life. At the time, I could barely make my way through the book. I couldn't believe how bad of a teacher he was and how easily his students got him off topic. So why did I read it again? Well, this just so happened to be the final book in my "positive motivation" class, and this one required that I read an analyze, so I attacked this book again. I still don't think that Frank McCourt was a very good teacher, but I do now have a new perspective after six years under my belt. First, I can now sympathize with the situation he was teaching in during the first 10 years of his career. He was in various vocational schools throughout New York City. He was teaching students who didn't care, with administrators who didn't care, and parents who didn't care. He was fighting a losing battle with no one there to support him or thrown him a floatation ring. He had no guidance, and a very rough crowd to please. It seemed as though when he got to a more academic institution (similar to the type of place I teach) that he came into his own. I like that he taught "outside of the box", but many times, he did not bring lessons back full circle to give relevance to the lesson or discussion. His book is a great display of what classrooms in America are like and what teachers face every day. However, I think Frank McCourt has demonstrated that he is not a good teacher but truly found his calling as an author after retiring. It's hard to believe no one told him to write a book sooner, especially since he was known to be a great story teller.

Book #43 - I Scream, You Scream by Wendy Lyn Watson

So I've made it to the bottom of my reserve of books and am avidly waiting for the UPS driver to drop the next batch from Amazon. So when you get to the bottom of the stack, this is what you would find. I ordered this book several months ago because it was recommended by Amazon based on other books I'd purchased. I thought I'd take a chance even though it was a brand new author with very few reviews. This is the start of a series of books about a small town ice cream shop owner who gets wrapped up in a local murder investigation. It was actually pretty good, and I liked that it had more modern twists to it than the other series' like this that I read. I have to say that I had figured out who did it about half way through, but interesting twists as to why the perp did it kept me interested through the end. Very light and easy reading for a hot summer day.

Book #42 - Sunflowers by Sheramy Bundrick

I was inspired to read this book by my sister, the artist. This genre of "a novel" about a historical person has really captivated me as of late. I've so enjoyed being a part of the character's lives. This book was a look at the life, tragedy, and talent of Vincent Van Gogh. As I read this book, all I could think about was the line from the Josh Groban song Vincent when he says, "I can tell you Vincent, the world was not made for one as beautiful as you." Vincent was haunted in life by the love of a woman he could not have because of her social status, the harshness of those living around him calling him strange and crazy, and the inability to sell his work. During his 37 years of life, Vincent Van Gogh painted hundreds of paintings, but only sold one for 400 francs. And he was haunted by that. The author did a fantastic job of getting us inside his head and experiencing, yes experiencing the world as Vincent saw it. The most incredible thing is that when he died, the world did not yet realize the enormity of the loss in Vincent. Vincent gave us a foreshadowing of how his story was to end when he said, "I don't know how much longer I can do this, Rachel. Sometimes I know exactly what I want and feel I can do it forever, other times I think it will be the death of me. But I can't stop. I can do without everything else - money, people, even God - but I can't do without my painting. Even if someday it kills me." Though we will never know why Vincent suffered and what drove him to take his life, one thing is for sure, he will live on forever in the beauty of his life's work.

Book #41 - Visions in White by Nora Roberts

Like all Nora Roberts' books, this one was a great love story. Actually, this was the perfect book for a week on Carnival Cruise Line. This is the first in a series of 4 books about the lives of 4 women who run their own wedding planning firm. In this one, the photographer, Mac, falls in love with a former high school classmate who is now a high school English teacher. The part of this book that really hit closest to home was when one of the parents of Carter's students came in to thank him for sparking the interest of learning in her son. I think this was Nora Roberts' shout out to the helicopter moms to try to say thank you rather than crabbing about everything. AS a teacher, I could totally relate with the elation he had that day. 95% of the feedback we get from parents is negative. However, we can live on one positive phone call or email for months.

Book #40 - The Heretic Queen by Michelle Moran

I actually finished this book on June 6 on the airplane heading to Miami to catch the Cruise we just got home from. It is the follow up to "Nefertiti" that I read some time ago. After nearly 4000 years since the height of the Egyptian empire, I have found that politics have not changed. "Royalty" is always jockeying for power and position using secret alliances and withholding secrets until the optimal time. Like "Nefertiti", I found that the author tied a fascinating story into the history of the Egyptians. At times, it is so hard to believe that children like Ramses II (19 yr old) and Queen Nefertiri (16 yr old) were drafting the first peace treaties in recorded history. The author placed an interesting twist with the book ending and Nefertiri releasing the Hailbu people from Egypt. Although historically, she says Moses (who is found in no other references except the Bible) would have been a thousand years before, the story dictates that Nefertiti allowed Moses to lead his people to freedom and out of slavery. So refreshing that although Nefertiri did things to position herself to be Queen, she (unlike her Aunt Nefertiti) did them out of her love and devotion to Ramses. She could not bear to be apart from him nor could he from her. There was far less pressure to produce heirs and for more natural, real enjoyment in their marriage. Perhaps this is why Ramses lived to almost 90 years old.

Book #39 - The Poet Prince by Kathleen McGowan

Riveting. I've never used that word before in describing a book, but this one is truly riveting. This is the third book in "The Magdalene Line" series, and lucky for us, she's already in the works for a 4th (the role of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII). Kathleen McGowan is a fantastic story teller. She has woven an adventure of the current day Order of the Holy Sepulcher (the original followers of Christ who have stuck to his teachings of love) and a look at the history, art, and corruption of the Renaissance. The Medici family nurtured the greatest artists of this time including Botticelli and Michelangelo, and according to this author struggled and sacrificed to pass on the ancient teachings and capture them in great works of art. This was a heart-racing page turner that I literally could not ingest fast enough. I found that I couldn't even comprehend or internalize the amount of information that the author provided to me, but with that being said, I did not miss anything in the translation. I could read this book 10 times and not stop learning. I only wish I could remember more of what I learned in my high school Art History class; lucky for me there is an artist in the family.

Book #38 - Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

This is a book that my sister asked me to read. She had seen the movie and had heard that of course the book was much better. This was a short story of the two years a young college graduate walked away from everything he knew, and lived on the road. After a lifetime of struggle with his father's expectations and his dreams of being free from the capitalistic world, he simply walked away. There were times as though he seemed to be crazy, and others where the things he did seemed completely logical. But, in the end, he survived 112 days on nothing but the offerings of the land of Alaska. His death was the result of ingesting seeds which were coated in a toxic mold. Any Alaskan would say he was arrogant to think he did not need a topographical map, a compass, a shotgun, and an ax. The neat thing about the story is that he documented this 2 year journey through the Western states via journals and postcards to friends he met along the way. I don't feel it is too far-fetched for a young man to exit college and want to wander to find himself. Tons of students do it today, but more glamorously label it as "backpacking through Europe." After having spent time in the barren landscapes of Utah and Arizona, I can see how he got started on his quest. There were times while I hiked through this area I could see the excitement and challenge of backpacking and living off the land. But, as we would hike just far enough away from civilization, I would feel overwhelming anxiety that no one could find me if I got lost. Unlike the young man in this book, common sense and the understanding that I was ill-prepared to walk off the beaten trail kept me, and most others like me, from simply walking away from the world. Such insight into what I think many twenty-somethings search for once they've accomplished all of the goals they have mapped out from their childhood and are now left with a void to fill.

Book #37 - Total Control by David Baldacci

In case you are wondering, no, I did not read this entire book today. I actually started it last week and couldn't wait to read the new Grisham, so I set this one aside for a few days to read the other. I have had so many people swear by Baldacci. I've had several people tell me he is better than Grisham (to this I say, blasphemy). So, with that being said, I decided to order one of his from Amazon. I wasn't sure if he used recurring characters, so I got the first one written by him. The reviews said it was a "fast-paced thriller." I have to say that it took me almost 300 pages to get hooked in to this book. Then, Baldacci turned up the heat. He really held the cards close, and didn't even give the reader a morsel of information as to what was going on. That was one of the things I didn't like. I felt like he didn't even want to give us a chance of figuring out who did it. Overall, a good book, but way to long.

Book #36 - Theodore Boone Kid Lawyer by John Grisham

I can't describe to you the excitement yesterday when I opened the mailbox and Amazon had delivered this book. I was thrilled. Though it was very suspicious that the book was smaller that Grisham's other books, it took a little investigating to discover that this books is written for a middle school aged child. With that being said, it was fantastic. I was captivated, and like reading Harry Potter, I did not feel that this book was boring or dull because it was written at a reading level below what I'm used to. John Grisham has proven once again that he is a dynamic and risky writer. I have always contended that his best books are his non-lawyer books, but now I'm not so sure that he isn't a children's author. This book rivals Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. I could envision my 13 year old self devouring a book like this. This is just the type of book that can really get kids interested in reading. I am continually and pleasantly surprised by John Grisham. He is a true artist. Always growing and testing new waters with his talents. I'm sure this book will inspire more than one young man or lady to be lawyers one day.

Book #35 - Finding the Dream by Nora Roberts

This was the final book of the Lovers and Dreamers series, and honestly, I was a little disappointed. As powerful and believable as the first two books were, I felt let down by the ending of the third. Again, a great love story and an inspiring story of a woman trying to find herself after her husband walked out on her. But, I felt like Nora Roberts tried to hard to tie back in the story of "Seraphina" that was laced throughout the books. The three woman grew up intrigued and moved by the tragic death of a woman who in the mid-1800's threw herself off the nearby cliffs because the love of her life died. I liked throughout the stories how this myth brought them close together, but I thought the ending of this book and the way in which they found Seraphina's dowry was over the top. Took a book that was very realistic and made it corny and not believable. It was a very abrupt ending where the characters did a 180 and all was well in the world. Overall, this was a great trilogy, and I'm probably being to nit-picky. I do recommend, and I really enjoyed. Now on to Baldacci.

Book #34 - Holding the Dream by Nora Roberts

It is very interesting to me that Nora Roberts can write three books in a series about three women, and the books be so different. I'm not sure if that makes sense to those of you that have not read the books, but this book was about Kate, the second sister. So interesting just to change the perspective and emphasis of the story. The story line for the other two sisters is still the same, but seeing it through Kate's eyes makes it unique and different in some ways. Again, we are taken through the trials and tribulations of life. We get to fall in love with being strong women, and we get to learn things about ourselves through the characters. Finding happiness in oneself is the key to life..isn't it. If you can find that place where the waters are calm and you glow inside, then you will find true happiness. That is the lesson within this trilogy as well as the secret of life. So many people make a living on selling happiness, but in the end, only the individual can find that place. And, on the flip side, only you can allow someone to take away your happiness. That's what I've learned through these books.

Book #33 - Miracle on the 17th Green by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge

Like I just told my husband, "If I had 4 thumbs, they would all be up." Not since Bagger Vance have I read a golf book to match. Actually, I don't think any sporting book can match a golf book. Why do I say this? Well, if you have ever played even one round of golf, you know it is the hardest, most frustrating, and yet the most exhilarating and addicting game you can ever play. Golf is just like life. There are ups, there are downs. The worst shots can be followed by the best shots. I really think my brother, when he turns 50 and if he stays physically fit, he should go to Q-School. I think he could be a sleeper and play his way in. He's definitely competitive enough. But until that time, he needs to follow Pop's advice, "No gimmes. No mulligans. No bullshit. Let's play golf." I recommend this book to anyone. It is so uplifting and just makes me want to get a tee time tomorrow! And, we all walk away dreaming of the just ONE perfect round (much less at Pebble Beach).

Book #32 - Daring to Dream by Nora Roberts

This was an extraordinary Amazon.com find. There should be no doubt to my avid readers (reader...just Dad) that I have a weakness for the happily-ever-after love story. There should be no surprise at this point that Nicholas Sparks is my favorite of all time. Anyway, I digress. I found this unbelievable price for "Lovers and Dreamers" the 3 book series of these three incredible women. Daring to Dream is the first in the series, and yes, I'm sure I'll devour the others in turn (although, I am going to read one of James Patterson's next). One of the things I appreciate so much about Nora Roberts is her ability to develop such strong characters, which are always women. We get to know them, cheer for them, and celebrate with them. This book was no different. I found myself struggling with Margo (the main character) as she found her true self. She found a power and strength inside herself and most especially a courage to be the woman inside. She swallowed down the fear and insecurities and took risks that she had never before dreamed of. I highly recommend this book (to any woman). It will fill your soul with happiness and make you proud to be a strong, independent, and yet vulnerable woman.

Book #31 - Blind Side by Catherine Coulter

Don't confuse this one with "The Blind Side" which is now a major motion picture. This is last year's book by Catherine Coulter in her FBI series. I got hooked on this series back in college when my mom's best friend Fran gave me a copy of "The Eleventh Hour." I enjoyed it so much that I caught up on the whole series. This is one of the authors I follow for new books and purchase immediately. When this one came out in paperback, I immediately went to Amazon to order. Just to be sure I hadn't read it, I was reading the synopsis and reviews on Amazon. Interestingly, this book got shredded by the reviewers. As I started the book, I immediately got wrapped into the suspense and action. I thought the reviewer was crazy. However, I have to admit I was very disappointed in the last 50 or so pages. There was tons of buildup but then a very big letdown that the story had no depth. It was kind of like a bad made-for-TV-movie. I stuck with it to the end, and I have to agree with the reviewers, I was disappointed in the level of this work compared to her other books. Almost as though she tried to cram a mediocre book in just because she knew her avid followers would read it anyway. If this is the first book you read by Catherine Coulter, please try another because I did not feel it was telling of her work. On a side note, she does do her homework...it is fact that the Tennessee training center for police officers is in Donelson, TN...just across the street from where I work!

Book #30 - Prime Cut by Diane Mott Davidson

I finally finished the last 50 pages today. I have this unwritten rule when I read: if I'm within 100 pages, I typically finish it before going to bed. I was down to 50 pages on Friday night. So now the logical question is why did it take so long to finish? Well, if you've been watching the news, my home is in a now very wet Nashville, TN, and we have experienced the worst storms followed by flooding in the city's history. I have just finally started to peel myself from the news and activities surrounding the flood. Although our little house on the top of a hill was just fine, the school I teach at had 4 feet of water covering the entire bottom floor. You can imagine the heartache and bedlam of the last few days. But, back to the book. Started really slow and there were too many characters introduced early. But, the mystery finished pretty good. I don't think this was one of her bests, and unless you really like Diane Mott Davidson, I don't recommend it.

Book #29 - Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates

I don't know where to begin on my review of this book. First off, I never saw the movie, so I had absolutely no idea what to expect. Tragic. That is probably the first word that comes to mind about this book. It started slow and very odd because there was so much background necessary to develop the characters. However, the author did a great job of keeping you interested in the mean time. The image was of an ordinary, suburban family in the 1950's. The appearance was that of the Cleavers. Mom worked at home, Dad loved his job, two kids, and everything is great. In actuality, Mom was crazy, Dad hated his job (and did the minimum every day), they hated and resented their children, and the home life was dismal. This book took you through all kinds of emotions and family trials. Such a different perspective. Same struggles and weaknesses as families today, but people are so much more open about problems in today's world. Tragic ending (which I won't give away), but overall pretty good. Critics of the book say it should be an American Classic, but honestly, I did not like it as much as "Stoner". Perhaps it was just the difference in the writing styles of the authors.

Book #28 - Angels Fall by Nora Roberts

This book was an addicting page turner. Curiosity got you started, intrigue in the middle, and fear at the end. Again, like all of her books, she gave you enough information to wrap you in, but couldn't really put your finger on who the bad guy was. I love that she always writes books with a backdrop of the beauty of the West. This one was in a small town near Jackson Hole, WY with the glorious Grand Tetons in their back yard. The love story was excellent, and as always, an ending that leaves you happy inside and with a feeling that all is right in the world. I'm amazed after having written 150 books, that Nora Roberts continually is able to write with fresh ideas. You finish her books wishing always for an epilogue because you are so wrapped into the lives of the characters that you want to know how it all ended.

Book #27 - Hero at Large by Janet Evanovich

I know it is hard to believe that someone as educated as I am could absolutely adore Janet Evanovich, but I do. There is no take-away message or deep realizations from reading her books, but I don't care. Just like there is a need in television for those funny, happy-go-lucky sitcoms, I think their is the same kind of need for the avid reader. I can't put these books down, and I look forward to each time she releases a new book. If you are interested in ligh-hearted, thoughtless reading, Janet Evanovich is the author for you. This book (her first ever published) was just as wonderful as all of the others I've read. She never disappoints and every one of her books makes you laugh out loud. Another spicy romance with a wonderful ending!!

Book #26 - The Bullpen Gospels by Dirk Hayhurst

Again, how did it come to my hot little hands, my Dad. He picked this one because it got rave reviews from Keith Olbermann. It was fantastic. This book was an insiders perspective to a season in minor league baseball. Totally intriguing how horribly poor these guys are, and how opposite the minor leagues are from the majors. No glamor, long bus rides, and tons of wasted down time. Dirk Hayhurst is a fantastic writer, and the stories and antics he relayed kept the pages turning. I was cheering for him every time he took the mound! The other part of this that was neat is that during his younger years, my husband was a minor league strength coach. This was way before I came into the picture, and so it is an entire episode in his life that I never experienced. As I read funny parts to him or discussed some of the stories from the locker room, he said that it is all true. This stuff really happens. He warns to anyone thinking of making a career at baseball that if you are uncomfortable with nakedness, this is not the job for you. Excellent job Dirk, and I can't wait for the next book that details your life in the big leagues!!

1/4 down 3/4 to go

I thought since I'd just completed my 25th book (in just over 1/4 a year) that I would take moment to reflect on this journey and what I've already discovered along the way. It is so much fun to be able to look back at the books I've read this year and do a mental assessment of what the take-away from each as been. I didn't realize until now how much variety I have in what I read. I attribute some of this to the fact I trade books with several different groups of people, but I also think that because of this blog, people have been recommending many books that I never would have read or konwn about. I've had an interesting mixture from brainless to adventure and fiction to non-fiction. One thing is for sure, I've truly enjoyed this process. I think I've had far more take-away value from these books because of the reflection that has gone into writing these blogs. Now, I find myself contemplating what I would share with my readers as I am reading the books. It has given me the opportunity to share my quirky thoughts with all of you. 25 down 75 to go.

Book #25 - The Sword of the Templars by Paul Christopher

My husband asked me today if this book was a dud because it has taken me nearly a week to get through it. It's funny how a change in the weather shifting to Spring has made a huge impact in the time I spend reading. This was a pretty good book. Lots of adventure and a typical search for the Templar treasure. This one was unique because it tied Nazi Germany into the hunt, and it took 3/4 of the book to figure out what they were actually searching for and who the bad guy was. I have to say that the neatest part of the book was what the Templar treasure actually was. It wasn't gold, the Holy Grail, or the cup that Jesus used at the last supper, it was tens of thousands of ancient scrolls from the library of Alexandria. I really like that the author thinks the greatest treasure we as humans have is that knowledge that is locked in the scrolls and books of our past and present. Good read, but I'm getting worn out on this genre.

Book #24 - have a little faith by Mitch Albom

Wow! I don't know what to say. Mitch Albom stuns me again. Every time I see him on ESPN, I am left in wonder of how he can write such incredible books. After much consideration, I have decided this is his greatest book. Just as when I read Michael J. Fox's book, I am struck with the beauty and wisdom of the Jewish faith. I feel so blessed that through the eyes of Mitch Albom, I got to know his rabbi, pleasantly dubbed Reb. I learned so much about God, kindness, faithfulness, and living life to the happiness measure through this book. Also woven through the story is that of Rev. Henry Covington of Detroit (Christian). It isn't until near the end of the book the stories come together and unite one idea: no matter your religious background, we are here to honor God and through him all things are possible. Through Henry's story, we see the blight of the modern day homeless and the incredible impact of the current economic downturn on the citizens of our country. Just like when I finished "Same Kind of Different as Me," I find myself truly saddened that a country as great as ours cannot afford ALL of its citizens a warm bed, a hot meal, and basic health care services. This book was beautifully written and is filled to the brim with ancient, yet relevant wisdom. I think part of why I find it as Albom's best is because of his shear, raw honesty. To write this book, he took a long hard look at himself, and poured his fears and failures onto paper. I leave you with this discussion that Reb and Mitch were having about whether it was better to be an atheist or feel as though there is a God, but he does not answer your prayers. Albom asks Reb if being an atheist is "worse than an unanswered prayer?" The Reb replies, "Oh yes. It is far more comforting to think God listened and said no, than to think that no body's out there."

Book #23 - Hot Ice by Nora Roberts

I know, I know, the title makes me laugh out loud too. I know what you are thinking, how could such an educated woman pick a book called "Hot Ice". Actually, I sometimes have a weakness for thoughtless, trashy books with a bit of adventure mixed in. I picked this one to accompany me on a school trip that 4 other teachers and myself took 50 high school students on. We went overnight to Atlanta, and actually had a great time. You need to take a book like this to help you cope with the bus ride. Trust me on this. Also a great book for the beach on Spring Break. This one was pretty good with a hunt for the long lost treasure of Marie Antoinette. Didn't end at all like I thought it would, but I have to say, I had a silly smile on my face at the end. Fun, light reading, but definitely not life changing. Kind of like watching "The Bachelor", just done for the fun of it. Not to worry, my Dad has brought me 3 new books that I'm sure will be more intellectually motivating than this one.

Book #22 - The Excellent 11 by Ron Clark

This is the second book in the required reading for my "Motivating Students who Don't Care" class. I have to put in a blip for University of Laverne Professional Development and how impressed I am with these classes I am taking. I have found all of the books as very informative and helpful to teachers. What a breath of fresh air compared to the education classes I took to acquire my license. I had read Ron Clark's "Essential 55", and was very intrigued about what this book would be about. There is no doubt that Ron Clark is an incredible teacher, and his stories and insight into what needs to happen in our schools is excellent. This book is about the 11 qualities teachers and parents need to have to inspire and motivate our children. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I do a lot of the things he suggests, and it was comforting to hear him talk about how tiring it is to teach the right way. But, it is worth it when you see kids excited to be in your room and pumped about learning. I recommend this book for any level of teacher and any parent with school age children. It is a quick read, but filled with wisdom for helping our children be the best they can be.

Book #21 - Nefertiti by Michelle Moran

Sunday afternoon, I went to Target for diapers and saw this book on the Target Club Pick shelf. Out of all periods of time in both World History and Art History, the Egyptians have captivated me the most. So, I thought I'd take a shot on this book. It was absolutely fascinating, and I have been engrossed in it since the first page. As I started to read, I felt like I was being pulled into a very similar set of circumstances as those of Anne Boleyn as displayed in "The Other Boleyn Girl." Both families conniving to be in a place of power, using antics and deception to control the king, and to the point of desperation to produce a male heir. I didn't realize how powerful Nefertiti became and that she and her husband made up their own "god" to set them apart from all other Pharaohs. Just like in Anne Boleyn's story, Nefertiti's ended in crushing devastation. She lost her husband, four children, and the city they built together. Also like in "The Other Boleyn Girl," there was a sister to the powerful woman who wanted nothing but a simple life, and the sister was pulled back into the limelight time and again. Like Mary in "The Other Boleyn Girl," Mutny (Nefertiti's sister) wound up raising the future monarch of Egypt. This is a fantastic book that reads simply but demonstrates the time of the Egyptians in great detail and description. I'm going to have to get the sequel that describes the life of Nefertiti's niece, Nefertiri. A note for anyone who decides to read this, there is a glossary of terms in the back that I did not discover until half way through. It is extremely helpful. I'm so thrilled with this great find!!

Book #20 - Stoner by John Williams

So this book arrives in the mail from Amazon; sent to me by my Dad. I open it up, read the back and begin to wonder why he sent me the "American Classic" written in 1965. I had never heard of it, nor had any of the English teachers at school. So, I called my Dad and inquired. He told me he had read in Rolling Stone that this was one of Jeff Bridges top 5 favorite books, and Jeff Bridges is in my Dad's top 5 actors of all time. This book, though written as a very simple narrative, is exceptionally powerful. As I started in to the book, I was drawn in by the story of William Stoner, a poor farmer who went off to University of Missouri to study agriculture but fell in love with his sophomore English class. What is incredible is the layers of depth in this book. Underlying the entire story is the history of our country throughout this man's life. The impacts of WWI, the great depression, WWII, and the aftermath of the war, as well as how sheltered he was from these things by being in a small mid-western town. The story also takes you through his professional career, the struggles to become a great teacher, and the politics of the university tenure system. All woven throughout is his marriage to Edith and their daughter Grace. We never really find out what is wrong with Edith, but here are some of my theories (totally made up): sexually abusive father, strict over-bearing mother, some form of autism, manic-depressant, the list goes on. Perhaps my Dad will read this book and be better able to give me insight into Edith. What is pitiful is that the circle of craziness continues with their daughter Grace who gets pregnant so she can escape their house and spends the remainder of her life drinking heavily. William Stoner lived a sad pitiful life, with the exception of a short love affair he had with a fellow professor, I don't think he ever lived life but rather succumbed to the daily routine. He only found happiness in his classroom, and only misery in his home. This would be an incredible book to read and discuss in the classroom. So many different directions a good teacher and a group of intelligent students could go in the discussion: history, struggle, heartbreak, love, and the power of circumstances. The author depicts some of the most trying times our country has ever faced, and in the end describes the perseverance of our soldiers who returned from war. All I could think was, they are truly "the greatest generation."

I just want to share some insight the author gives through Stoner during the long years of World War II. "He saw good men go down into a slow decline of hopelessness, broken as their vision of a decent life was broken; he saw them walking aimlessly upon the streets, their eyes empty like shards of broken glass; he saw them walk up to back doors, with the bitter pride of men who go to their executions, and beg for the bread that would allow them to beg again; and he saw men, who had once walked erect in their own identities, look at him with envy and hatred for the poor security he enjoyed as a tenured employee of an institution that somehow could not fail. He did not give voice to this awareness; but the knowledge of common misery touched him and changed him in ways that were hidden deep from the public view, and quiet sadness for the common plight was never far beneath any moment of his living."

Book #19 - The Testament by Eric Van Lustbader

My brother AJ gave me this book almost two years ago. Don't ask me why it took me so long to read it, but it got buried at the bottom of my stack of books. Even more random is that I picked this book that was literally at the bottom of a stack of 20. He told me when he gave it to me that it was great. Classic story of Good versus Evil. One ancient religious group has "secrets that will shake the Christian world to their foundation." They are trying to protect this information from the bad guys that are seeking world domination with these "secrets". Very interesting mix of action and intrigue. Like Da Vinci Code, the main character of this book is great with ciphers and like Sophie from Da Vinci Code, he has been trained to be the Keeper of the secrets from a young age without knowing. What is incredible about this book is that there are several layers of deception and it takes the reader forever to figure out who is the bad guy and who is the good guy. This book had a great ending and the world remains safe for all. In regards to whether I believe an ancient Gospel of Jesus Christ would make Christianity crumble, I don't believe it would. I figure if a gospel that demonstrated that Jesus was more man than God-like would be destroyed by the Vatican before anyone would ever see it. Even if by chance, it would be released and authenticated, I seriously doubt modern Christians would accept it.

Book #18 - Bullying at School by Dan Olweus

I know what you are thinking, random book compared to my other selections. Actually, I'm taking some professional development classes, and this is one of the books I read during the course on Bullying. I have to say, this is an excellent resource for any teacher or administrator. I think part of the reason I found this book so insightful, is that is the entirety of it is based on statistical research. I found some interesting insight about what types of kids become bullies and what types become victims. Children who come from abusive (physically or emotionally) families are very likely to become bullies. Actually, they are simply demonstrating what they are being taught at home. Victims are typically from families where the parents, especially the mother, does everything for them. Also interesting is that it only takes standing up to a bully one time, and the bully will move on to the next kid.

Book #17 - The Main Corpse by Diane Mott Davidson

I know all of my avid readers are wondering where in the world I've been. Like the NHL, I took an Olympic break. As I write this, we are waiting for the overtime of the USA/Canada hockey game. The Olympics are fantastic!!! How could I take a break from 2 hours of curling to read? Therefore, my New Year's Project had to take a back seat.

This book was excellent. By far the best of hers I've read. She went a totally different direction in this book than in any of the others. Rather than the main character, Goldy, finding a dead body or needing to prove who did it to save a friend, there was no body...just speculation of foul-play. This book had everything suspense, excitement, rotten cops, several near-death experiences, and of course delicious food. This story resonates the ugliness of people in our world and the triumph of friendship and love.

Book #16 - What difference do it make? by Ron Hall and Denver Moore

First, I'd like to say thank you to Thomas Nelson publishing company who sent me a free copy of this book after reading my post about "What Difference Do It Make?" I truly appreciate your reading my blog and thinking enough of it to send me this book. Truly an honor.

This book took the seed that was planted in the first book and expanded the stories of Ron and Denver. In the first book, I could not stop focusing on Deborah to even think much about Ron and Denver, but this book really let me take a hard look at the lives of these men. I am going to split this post in two parts. The first, I'd like to discuss my opinions of these extraordinary men, and in the second, I'd like to talk about the two societal issues that I think they are doing a magnificent job of bringing attention to.

I really have to appreciate the character found within Ron Hall. He doesn't profess to be a great Christian or even a great man. He doesn't pretend that becoming involved with the homeless came naturally or easily to him. He is truly honest to the readers opening up his feelings of fear and disgust for the vagrants of his city. He admits he would never have gotten involved with the homeless without the passion of his wife. I find a lot of myself in Ron. I have done some work at the shelter's in Nashville, and I struggle with fear and the instinct to run away. In my life, I have experienced the compassion and total acceptance that two incredible women have shown in regards to the homeless. The first is my mother. There were several years when I was in high school that she took a job as a nurse in the local homeless clinic. Part of her job was to travel between the different shelters and man the local clinic while serving the forgotten of my hometown. I don't know how she did it, but every person she helped felt her compassion and understanding. And, she did it with a servant's heart. The other woman is my best friend, Kathye. Kathye is totally committed to working with the inner city food kitchen, Community Cares. Several times a year, she loads up students and faculty from school and heads down to serve lunch, clean the facilities, and load them up on supplies. She is an incredible woman who is always thinking of the other person first. She gives our students the eye-opening experience of how people, in our very city, struggle to survive. All of the kids that go with her are changed for life by their experiences.

Denver is still one of the wisest people I've ever read. After spending most of his life unable to read and write, he has a very simplistic outlook on right and wrong. His incredible faith and ability to care for others without judging is incredible. He makes the following call out to the Christians of the world, "If all the Christians - I mean all of 'em - go outta the pews on Sundays and into the streets, we'd shut the city down. We'd shut down hunger. We'd shut down loneliness. We'd shut down the notion that there is any such of a thing as a person that don't deserve a kind word and a second chance." Denver is cut from a different cloth, one of kindness, respect, and most especially, action.

This book is a revolution. It is starting people thinking about how they can get involved. I told my husband earlier today that I think we live in a wonderful country who jumped to the aid of Haiti in an instant, but how disappointing there are millions in our country with nowhere to live. Ron and Denver bring again to the forefront the plague of the homeless in out country. In addition, this book really revealed one of the things more and more Americans are struggling with, growing up with no true father. It was very interesting how both of these gentlemen were greatly affected by the lack of a father-figure. As a teacher, more and more, I see the affects of children growing up without a father. I find so many young men have no one to look to for guidance and discipline. I think for centuries, we've known the value of a mother, but it is becoming blindingly obvious the role of a father in families. I am blessed to have had the best father of his generation and to have married the best father of this generation.

Book #15 - The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

This is an ancient Toltec book of Wisdom that guides the reader to personal freedom, the pursuit of happiness, and acting with love. The book guides us to four agreements for living life: 1. Be impeccable with your word, 2. Don't take anything personally, 3. Don't make assumptions, and 4. Always do your best. I have to say that I found the fourth assumption the easiest, and that is the one in which the author says unites the other three. So, with Lent starting on Wednesday, I am going to spend my forty days working on the first three. I am going to make a conscious effort to eliminate the negative things I say. I'm going to each day wake with the attitude that I will not try to hurt people with my words nor gossip about them behind their back. I'm going to try to encourage and love people with my words. Like the author said, they are the most powerful weapon we have got. Second, I am going to focus on not taking what people say or do personal. Their words and actions are simply a reflection of how they are feeling. This has been very difficult for me. Being a teacher, we often only hear from parents the negative and rarely the positive. In the next 40 days, when I get a negative email telling me how it is my fault a child is not successful, I vow to not take it personally. I am going to detach from the emotion of the situation, take a deep breath, and then give the parent some reasonable advice. And then, to practice #1, I won't turn around and talk about that parent to my family and friends. I don't feel like I make many assumptions, but I am going to try to remain conscious of it. As I have matured and become more self-confident in life, I think the assumptions and trying to speculate what people think of you go by the wayside. I have to say that this book didn't have a life changing impact on me. Perhaps it is because I already strive to live my life free from the stigma and pressures of society. For the last 5-6 years, I have been beating to my own drum. I leave you with this mantra, "I'm going to be myself. No longer am I going to run my life trying to please other people. No longer am I going to be afraid of what they think about me. What do I care what others think if I am going to die in one week? I'm going to be myself."

Book #14 - Cream Puff Murder by Joanne Fluke

So if you haven't figured out the pattern by now, here it is. One heavy, intense book followed by a brainless, forgettable book. It helps me to keep from having emotional meltdowns every book I read. This is the eleventh book of the series starring Hannah, the cookie store owner. She is the ultimate busy body. Every book, there is a murder in their small town, and Hannah is always involved with finding the body and capturing the bad guy. This book was funny because literally every person in the town was coming to her asking her to solve the case (even the local police). It was like the Scooby Doo Gang. She solved another one, managed to dodge having to chose between the two men who have proposed to her, and created a half a dozen new cookie recipies. It was good. Not profound or life changing, but entertaining none-the-less.

Book #13 - Always Looking Up by Michael J. Fox

I love Michael J. Fox. I always have. My brother, AJ and I grew up watching Alex P. Keaton on Family Ties (my sister born 1982 was a little young to remember). We loved all of the Back to the Future movies, Teen Wolf, and Secret of My Success. As we grew older, movies like Doc Hollywood, American President, and Atlantis became favorites as well. Ironically, as much as I love Michael J. Fox, I never saw one episode of Spin City. I attribute this lack of attention to one of my all time favorite actors to college. Spin City's four years with MJF were during the period of my life where I didn't get to watch a lick of TV. I'm making up for the lost time now, so don't worry. Although I've always loved MJF and thought he was a wonderful actor, it wasn't until reading this book, I've realized how incredible he is. He is a fantastic writer. Just enough humor, story telling, and wise adage to make for a wonderful autobiography. And, if that isn't enough, he took me through every emotion from devastation and sadness to anger and frustration to joy and of course OPTIMISM. MJF is a hero. Not perfect, but a hero to so many of us that have never had a debilitating disease. So many of us who say, how does he do it? Why doesn't he just give up. In his book, Michael borrows Christopher Reeve's definition of hero, "an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure." The book is broken into 4 topics: work, politics, faith, and family. And, if you will indulge me, I would like to share tidbits from each with you, my avid readers (by the way Dad, you need to finish this book. The best parts of it were ahead of you).

Work. When MJF stepped away from the public limelight, he started/created/runs the most successful non-profit organization ever. He sought guidance from Lance Armstrong and took major risks. Because of the generosity of people around the world and this foundation, stem cell research was able to continue in the last decade even though the President of the United States (George W. Bush) restricted all funding.

Politics. MJF was in his late 20's when diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, and at the start of the 21st century, he was certain a cure would be found in the next 5-10 years. How devastating when the President slashed his dreams of a better life. How crushing when certain political reporters accused him of "faking" his symptoms. Being the granddaughter of a beautiful, talented, artistic woman who died a terrible, horrible death from this disease, I feel his anguish. Too see a woman whose beautiful, soft hands once made works of art no longer able to hold a spoon is horrific. She remembered everything, knew everyone, but was a prisoner in her own body. I have tried so hard in my classroom to open the conservative eyes of my students to the bigger question of what God has called us to do. I have found that when given the same explanation that MJF gave as to why stem cell research should be allowed if the embryos are donated, that most of my students feel it is the kind and humane science to pursue. His argument is this, "In vitro fertilization creates a surplus of embryos, which are discarded in numbers greater than will ever be used in research. Many of our friends are parents of children who, without in vitro, would not exist - I have no reservations about it. However, to favor one and forbid the other is fundamentally inconsistent, or plainly inequitable."

Faith. I did not realize until reading the book the Michael's wife and children were Jewish. But, from his discussions of raising his children in this ancient religion, I found myself wondering if some of the rituals of generations should be applied to children today. When speaking of his sons bar mitzvah, "structure and ritual around this transition [from child to adult], instructing these emerging life forms to recognize and accept their responsibility to themselves, their families, and others. They are claimed and celebrated just when they are most susceptible to feeling unwanted and misunderstood." Could our modern culture utilize these ancient practices. If we could embolden young people to take more responsibility and be accountable, could be prevent many school shootings, teen (or pre-teen) pregnancies, and high school dropouts. Could we give them purpose during times of self doubt.

Finally Family. Incredible insight that as teachers, we try to teach parents. Michael J. Fox discusses how it doesn't help anyone to protect our children from all types of failure or problems. He discusses what a disservice we do our children by saving them from all childhood ales and troubles. He talks about how those childhood challenges prepared him to face a life with a debilitating illness.

This book was wonderful, and as I read the final pages where he describes going to bed knowing on 11/5/08 that a new President who would reinstate funding for stem cell research was going to the White House, I found I had tears in my eyes. Tears for all of those like my grandmother who may never have to suffer so senselessly. Tears for the hope for millions suffering from not only Parkinson's, but diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and cancer. Maybe this decade is the one where we conquer and place emphasis on saving God's living children rather than focusing on who gets to police what God would or would not approve of.

Book #12 - The First Commandment by Brad Thor

I have to honestly admit the first book I read by Brad Thor I picked up off the shelf because of the cover. I do that quite often (make note publishers that the cover art does matter), and about half the time, the result is great and the other half of the time a flop. Brad Thor is a great adventure writer who has cornered the market on the Secret Service/Covert Ops books. Throughout this book, I found myself thinking, who would I have play Harvath in the movie. Still haven't come up with anyone. Must be beautiful like Tom Cruise but would have to be far tougher. It must be played by someone who can go crazy on the bad guy like Mel Gibson in "The Patriot." This book was great on many levels. Great adventure, high paced, great subplots, etc. However, what got me was how close it hit to what we are seeing in the news. All of the talk about Gitmo and terrorism were right out of the evening news. What was disturbing was the description and detail of how torture works. There were many occasions that my stomach rolled right up into my throat. If excerpts of this book were read of this book about the torture that happened at Gitmo, the citizens of our country would be furious and appalled by the fact that our government opened the prison and maintained it unlawfully for so many years. On a lighter note, for those avid readers as myself, I would be interested to know if you catch the reference he makes to Steve Berry's Cotton Malone.

Book #11 - What Time Devours by A.J. Hartley

A couple of years ago, my brother AJ called me up and said I had to get "On the Fifth Day" by AJ Hartley. This was during the resurgence of the "Da Vinci" type genre that immediately followed the release of the movie "The DaVinci Code." The first book was really good, so when I saw this new book by Hartley listed on Amazon as a recommended book, I went ahead and ordered it. I just love this type of book. Intrigue. History. Suspense. This one was really neat because it was about a long lost Shakespearean play that several different factions were trying to get their hands on. The adventure kept you wrapped in the book the entire time, and I have to say, I'm a sucker for books that take us through historic European countries. It was a nice break from all conspiracy surrounding the Vatican, and since I've never been to England, I truly enjoyed the history and description of Shakespeare's home town. Also interesting, is that the main character is an English teacher. It makes you think that adventure is out there for everyone, not just the chosen few. All we have to do is follow our imagination and not be afraid to try. For those of you who like to read the Epilogue first (as a few of my friends do, you know who you are), DON'T. The plot in this story is far more complicated than you first think, and several elements are exposed in the Epilogue.

Book #10 The Grilling Season by Diane Mott Davidson

This is the seventh book in the series starring Goldy Schulz. These are surprisingly good and exciting mysteries. How does a caterer in a small town find herself involved in every murder case in the Colorado town? Well that's simple; she's a busy-body. I actually ordered the 6th and 7th books (from Amazon of course) at the same time, and grabbed this one by mistake. I missed a few events in her life, but it didn't put me behind on the plot. Another nice feature of books like these; you can read out of order and still enjoy. So what I found interesting about this book, written in 1994, is that the premise involved a beast of a woman who was vice president of the local HMO. Much of the conflict revolved around the HMO making decisions about the healthcare of their members rather than leaving it up to the doctors. I wonder if the author wrote this book because at the same time, the Clinton's were trying to push healthcare through the Senate. Did she have an ulterior motive? Was she trying to display for the common, everyday, beach-novel readers what problems we were facing in the health care world? Was she trying to give us the inside view of the corruption, dishonesty, and cover-up? Something to ponder.

Book #9 - same kind of different As me. by Ron Hall and Denver Moore

When I started this blog, my best friend Kathye handed me this book and said I must read it. That's all she told me about it. This is the second very emotionally intense memoir I've read this month, and please let this be a lesson to my readers to spread some of these NY Times Best Selling memoirs out a little. I've been through the emotional ringer, and it is only January. The premise of the book was the unlikely friendship of a homeless, blackman named Denver and a rich, white art dealer, Ron Hall, that meet at a Homeless Shelter in Dallas, TX. The interesting part of their relationship is that neither wanted to be friends but both were forced in to it by Miss Debbie (Ron's wife). After weathering 25 years of the ups and downs of marriage, the Hall's began volunteering at the local rescue mission and that is where the story of these two men cross. It is an inspiring and heartwarming story of their friendship, but I was not nearly as moved by them as by Deborah Hall. If you would have handed me this book and asked me to read only the sections about Miss Debbie but put no name to the woman in the story, this could have been the life-story of my Aunt Susie. Caring, passionate, faithful woman who reaches out to every person she meets. Spreads joy and kindness to all. Compelled to get heavily involved in a local organization and falls victim to the fight of her life with cancer. The descriptions of the medicines, how it racked her body and yet she never gave up her hopeful spirit. The planning of future details to be sure her husband and children would be taken care of. The thousands of people at her memorial service. Like my Aunt, Deborah wasn't famous. She wasn't politically important. She didn't hold some huge, important job, and yet, she touched thousands of people. Like my Aunt, after her death, Deborah continued to contribute through all of those who loved her and continued her life's work. I hope that during the time after my Aunt died that my Uncle found solace in a friend like Denver. I think many times that friend was my Grandfather who also lost his best friend the day my Aunt Susie died. Denver was a remarkable man. Spent half of his life as a modern-day slave as a sharecropper picking cotton in Louisiana and felt as though he had 'moved on up' when he lived in Ft. Worth as a homeless man. Denver shared tons of practical wisdom in this book and though he could not read, his simplistic view on life gave him a greater understanding of God than any of us could dream of. One story that I want to share is of when he and Ron went to visit and elderly, white, homeless man in a nursing home. This old man had called Denver a "nigger" since the day he met him, and for three years, Denver continued to visit him, bring him treats, and keep him clean. On this occassion, Ron asked the man if there was anthing he could bring him, and the man asked for cigarettes and Ensure. When Ron and Denver went to the store to get these items, Ron was going to baulk on the cigarettes because they are bad for you. Denver's response was, "You asked the man how you could bless him, and he told you he wanted two things - cigarettes and Ensure. Now you tryin to judge him instead of blessin him by blessin him with only half the things he asked for. You saw the man. Now tell me the truth: How much worse you think he gon' be after smokin? Cigarettes is the only pleasure he got left." There are two things I will carry with me from this book. First, I will not judge, only bless, and second, even the simplest of people can make a huge impact by just caring for the needs of others.

Book #8 - I, Alex Cross by James Patterson

I wonder if James Patterson's mind ever slows down long enough to sleep. Think about it. To put out a new book every couple of months the way he does, he must have ideas running through his mind constantly. And while we are on the subject of ideas, this books' premise was fantastic. I didn't have any idea who the bad guy was until Patterson told me. I was throwing shots in the dark trying to guess who it could be. Another great book by Patterson (and yes, there are a few of his I didn't like...Lake House for one) staring Detective Cross. I feel sorry for Cross because he has a family member die or get kidnapped in every book. I feel like I've read so many book in this series that I am a part of the family, and I'm just waiting for one of my family members to die. We are up to at least 3 dead members of the Cross family: his first wife (killed by a serial murderer), the niece who played the violin in Kiss the Girls (guess she didn't actually die), and now another long-lost niece in this one. Excellent, quick read that will keep your heart rate high until the last page.

Book #7 - Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

This book was an entirely different type of read for me. I'm sure your are wondering why did it take me a week to read. This was a story of a woman's journey from broken and shattered to strong and vibrant. The journey from Italy to India to Indonesia documented in her 108 tales describes her passion for food and culture, spirituality and meditation, and finding the balance between two seemingly irreconcilable lives. I struggled through parts of this book, and found on many nights, I couldn't make it through more than a few stories at a time. Parts of the book (especially India) seemed to drag on, but I take from this several ideas. First, the author describes having children like "getting a tattoo on your face. You better be sure you really want it." That I found hysterical and yet so true. There is no turning back once your home pregnancy test confirms that you are going to be a parent, ready or not. As she described the greatest meal of her life, in Naples, I couldn't help but go back to a time when my little sister called from southern Italy claiming she had just had the best meal of her life. Or, when she describes how she started taking Italian lessons because she thought it was the most beautiful language, I thought instantly of my friend Cindy who did the same thing several years ago. Although I learned many interesting insights into the people and customs of the places she went, I found a likeness between the author and myself. I can remember first hand the feeling of total and complete loss and begging God in that moment to save me. And in that moment, feeling His presence wrapped around me. I too have dealt with pushing out the negative thoughts and dwelling on the broken times of my life. Like the plumber in India, I too had a sweet wonderful man tell me that I must forgive in order to move on in life. And like the author, I too found the happiness in life again. I came through stronger, more resilient, and happier than I had ever been. Just happy to be in my own skin. Happy to be a teacher. And most especially, happy to let a man love me with his whole heart. Now, coming to the end of the blog, I see why I struggled with this book. Though I didn't travel to Italy, India, and Indonesia, I did travel to Nashville, TN to find myself, to heal myself, and to live with joy and balance in my life.

Book #6 - The 5 Greatest Warriors - Matthew Reilly

This guy is the king of action thrillers. He blows all of the competition away. This is the third and final book of a series which Jack West, Jr. is out to save the world. The previous book, The 6 Sacred Stones ended with the hero falling into an endless abyss to imminent death. Kindly, the author opens this book with a synopsis of what happened in the previous two. I'd forgotten a lot of it and was extremely grateful for the reminder. This book was fantastic. FANTASTIC. I cannot believe Steven Spielberg hasn't bought the rights to all three. This trilogy would be better than Star Wars and Indiana Jones combined. I can't remember ever reading an author with a style like Rielly. Most authors open their books with several chapters of what I call "background and build-up". Not Rielly, all three of these books begin with our characters already in the throws of peril. The characters develop smoothly and are each so unique and endearing. Another one of Jack's crew die during the adventures of this book, and there are countless twists of fate and underhanded moves, but all ends well...just as we would expect. I cannot imagine the research that went into these books. Not only did the characters go to all of the 7 ancient wonders, but also countless exotic places of historical importance. Tied into the race to save the world, Rielly brought to light every one of the most important historical figures including Genghis Khan, Napoleon, Moses, and Jesus Christ. INCREDIBLE. Also, each of the locations Jack goes to is surrounded by elaborate and extensive booby-traps. Rielly is so creative in the way in which he designed them, explained them, and then drew diagrams to help the reader better understand what he was trying to describe. You could literally see them in your mind's eye. I'm so glad that the story ended the way it did, but like any trilogy, there is a bit of a letdown when it is finished. I will be curious to see where Rielly goes next. I can't imagine designing a series of books any more stimulating than these were, but if anyone could do it, Matthew Rielly could.

Book #5 - Whale Done by Ken Blanchard

This selection is dedicated to my best fan, my Dad. He gave me this book to read years ago. When I say years, I think it's been every bit of 5. He encourages me every so often to read it, and I've put it off thinking it would be a silly, boring, self- help book. Boy was I wrong. Should have know it was good because my Dad has recommended it to everyone, and frankly, he won't finish a bad book. This was a fantastic surprise written in a short 130 page book. My mind is already spinning about how I can implement "Whale Done" into my workplace and home. I've already discussed with my husband and assigned him to read it. I think the "Whale Done" attitude may be just what his high school football team needs. After learning the process of "Whale Done" at Sea World, the author uses his main character, Wes, to demonstrate all different ways this process of positive reinforcement and redirecting in all relationships of life. Unless you live in a box and never speak to any other human being, I highly recommend this book. Not only will your family, friends, and colleagues appreciate your new positive attitude, I would guess you would feel reinvigorated and excited to spend time in all of your daily relationships.

Book #4 - The Chocolate Snowman Murders by JoAnna Carl

Today was a "snow" day. I put snow in quotations because they canceled school at dinner time last night just thinking it might snow. The funny part is that it didn't start snowing until 10:00 today and stopped by 2:00. Even funnier than that is that they've already canceled for tomorrow. My theory is that all of the superintendents' of schools wanted to stay up late to watch the National Championship Football game. With it being a "snow" day, I thought that a book with "snowman" in the title would be a sensible choice. JoAnna Carl wrote another entertaining, short, murder mystery. I am stuck on several series like this one (others include Joan Fluke and Diane Davidson Mott) because they are fun, light, easy reads where you never have to worry about the main characters being killed off. What's funny about all of these is that the leading women in each of the series are the chief "investigators" in every murder in their small-town communities. You'd think they'd learn and butt out. As I was reading this, I was thinking about what I would blog and how I could possibly entertain my regulars (led by my Dad) with a no-brainer book. And just as my mind floated to that concern, on page 111, the authors, "soap box" rang out in the voice of Lee Woodyard. When the local, flashy, new-age pastor walked in with an air of narcisism, Lee's thoughts were the following, "I'm not an expert on theology, but I always distrust churches built as personality cults. And the secondhand reports that if we do good and believe in the correct theology, God will reward us with prosperity and happiness. This doesn't jibe with my observation that the most loving and faithful poeple around will still have lots of troubles and woes. They usually just cope with them better." Who says you can't learn a powerful message from a trivial novel.

Book #3 - Cross Country by James Patterson

Too bad school started today, or I think I would have stayed up late to finish this book last night. This one was like no other James Patterson I've ever read, and I think I've read 30 or so of his. Some things were very typical of the author: thriller, fast paced, hero almost dies 10 times, big twist at the end, etc. However, there was a huge difference in this book that struck a cord with me. There were about 50 pages in the middle that had nothing to do with the plot, and everything to do with the tragedies in Darfur and neighboring regions. It made me wonder if James Patterson has a passion for this cause and felt as though he has a media outlet to spread the word to millions of his readers (that may or may not know anything about the situation). He gave a heart breaking, disturbing, terrifying description of what the people of the African nations are facing. He described the hopelessness of it, and yet, through several characters in the book, like Moses, he showed the beauty and hopefulness of the African people. He didn't have to take Cross to Africa; there is plenty of horrible crime in the USA, and yet he did. I wonder if he did that to open eyes, our eyes, those of us that comfortably sit in our recliners and catch tidbits of Anne Curry or George Clooney, but feel unmoved and detached from the situation. Well, James Patterson got me on this one. I have been moved, terrified, and deeply troubled.

Book #2 - Altar of Eden by James Rollins

I know, I know, it seems like I'm making all of this up. How could I have read this book in just one day? Let this be a disclaimer to you: Do not start this book unless you plan to finish it. I have to say when it came in the mail yesterday (Amazon, who else), I was deeply disappointed that it was not a continuation of the saga starring Gray, Painter, Monk, and Kate. I love James Rollins' books featuring these characters, and I'm dying to know if Monk recovers his memory, etc. So, with a bit of a heavy heart, I opened this book at 12:00 (noon) today thinking I'd read a little and maybe take a nap on my last afternoon of Christmas vacation. I was quickly wrapped into the plot involving genetically altered exotic animals (which you find out later is due to a virus that causes the addition of chromosomes to the genome). This book is heavily coated with Biology, and some of it may be difficult to a non-Scientist, but with that being said, I don't think my blood pressure came down until 10 minutes ago. It was intense. There is no other way to describe the book. 9000 mph the entire read. Probably why I couldn't put it down (although I did long enough to make and eat dinner). This was by far the best book by James Rollins that I have read, and I felt like I was reading old-school Michael Crichton as I turned the pages. It had that cutting edge science that as my Mom would say, "gave me the creeps". Scary because, what if. There are plenty of brilliant yet crazy people out there that may be experimenting with this very idea of creating new forms of biowarfare. All that is to be done now is to ship the book to my brother, also a science teacher, so he can hurry up and read it an then we can discuss the possibilities. FANTASTIC read. Going to have to take a brain break after that one.