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August 2007
The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak
non-fictionA novel that explores the tragic consequences of past hatred and injustice and its impact on the present. The book is set primarily in modern Turkey and works backwards to the 1st 20th century example of ethnic cleansing, the Armenian massacre of 1915. Shafak shows us both poignantly and shockingly that the bitter irony of hatred is one ends up hurting one's own family and oneself. Good book for discussion groups. Will appeal more to women than men.
Reviewed by Minerva
Rumspringa: To Be Or Not To Be Amish by Tom Shachtman
Nonfiction 2006-
A fascinating dichotomy, Rumspringa is the term used when Amish teenagers are allowed to experience mainstream culture. Many drive cars, drink alcohol, use drugs and live away from their families. After this period of exploration, between 80-90% of them return to the Amish way of life and choose to be baptized.
Reviewed by KLS
The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar
Fiction 2005-
Set in modern day Bombay, a servant and her wealthy female employer form an unusual friendship despite their class differences.
Reviewed by KLS
What I Loved by Siri Hustvedt
Fiction 2003-
Columbia University art history professor Leo befriends a contemporary and innovative artist, Bill. Their two families become close, share a calamity and then something much darker. Intelligent and affecting, this is a study of loss.
Reviewed by KLS