A Good Book You Want to Share
Something In the Shadows – Mary Mead
This story revolves around twin boys in a family of odd circumstances. One of the sons enlists in the military. The other son dies at home. The deceased son begins to haunt the house. Whenever anyone mentions his name, he appears. But why is this spirit bound to this place? This book is by one of our very favorite local authors and is available at the GBCL in Local Authors section.
Patton’s Prayer – Alex Kershaw
This book is about the Battle of the Bulge and saving of Bastogne (Belgium). Rain and freezing weather hindered the Americans. Gen. George Patton authorized the chaplin to write a prayer to ensure victory for the Allies. He passed it out to the troops who carried it with them when going into battle.
Patton’s nickname, “Old Blood and Guts” alludes to his toughness. Some interpreted that to mean “his guts and our blood.” However Patton did not lead from behind. The troops never figured out how he kept getting ahead of them. As one soldier noted, Patton told us to get out and push our truck out of the mud: “and first I knew there was General Patton pushing right long side of me.” He only stopped when he ran out of gas. Our Reader loved this book.
Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes – Maureen Johnson
When the protagonist’s aunt passes away, she finds that her aunt left her thirteen little blue numbered envelopes. The contents of each envelope gives her directions on where to go and what to do. The results are some world travels and many adventures. But just before the last envelope is opened, her purse and the envelope is stolen. Now what? Our reader thought this was a great adventure.
Project Hail Mary – Andy Weir
This novel is very scientific and technology based. The premise is that the earth is deteriorating and will soon be unfit for human habitation. The protagonist is sent to a distant planet to see if humans can survive there. The catch is, he can communicate with earth but cannot ever return. But, when he reaches the planet, he is met by another sentient life form that is on a similar mission. Can they reach a consensus? A compromise? Or is it winner takes all? This book can be found at the GBCL.
The Importance of Being Ernest (Graphic Novel) – Oscar Wilde
This is the famous play presented in a graphic novel format. Our reader found it an effective and interesting way to read a play.
The Lion Women of Tehran – Marjan Kamal
In the back alleys of 1950’s Tehran, two seven year old girls meet. Despite their wildly different backgrounds, they soon become fast friends. But soon their paths diverge and they lose track of each other. Fast forward to age 17, where they meet again as high school seniors. Iran is in turmoil. There is rebellion to depose the shah, and the girls find themselves on opposite sides of the argument. An inadvertent betrayal changes the trajectory of their lives. Our reader loved this book, and it can be found at the GBCL.
Maus (Graphic Novel) – Art Spiegelman
The author, iconic American illustrator and author, had a problematic relationship with his father. He knew his father survived Auschwitz and thought maybe if his father talked about his experiences he could better understand his father. So Art interviewed his dad and this is what his dad told him. This is a moving and enlightening story, told in words and black and white illustrations. The reader thinks this is a very important book.
—Fran Strauser