GOOD READS
Beyond Best-Sellers: What B&ECPL Staff Recommend
The following were recently published titles which were read and recommended by members of our staff in the month indicated. The initials or pen name of the contributing staff member are noted after each review. Click here for more current recommendations.
May 2003
Why I'm Like This: True Stories Cynthia Kaplan
Non-Fiction
This funny and touching memoir relates the author's life experiences from childhood summer camp through to the birth of her son. Recommended for anyone who enjoys the writings of Anne Lamott, David Sedaris or Augusten Burroughs. Reviewed by
KLS
Savannah Blues Mary Kay Andrews
Fiction
An antiques dealer finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery in this funny romantic novel with plenty of Southern atmosphere. Reviewed by
CC
The Everlasting Stream Walt Harrington
Non-Fiction
Transcending cultural prejudice and liberal bias, the author associated for one week a year with 3 other Americans from significantly different backgrounds. Over 30+ years, he befriended them and came to see true life values that he wanted his son to share. Excellent! Reviewed by
Captain Nemo
Outlaw: The Lives and Careers of John Rechy Charles Casillo
Non-Fiction
This biography of hustler/novelist Rechy may be more glowing school report by an infatuated fan than a truly objective literary biography, but for those interested in some background notes on the controversial author, this is a fine starting point. Reviewed by
Boo Radley
Complications: A Surgeon's Notes on an Imperfect Science Atul Gawande
Non-Fiction
Gawande describes the trials and tribulations of being a surgeon in an approachable, often humorous way. It's like reading an episode of "Trauma: Life In the ER." Read this, STAT! Reviewed by
cm
My Dream of You Nuala O'Faolain
Fiction
Kathleen Burke, a 49-year-old Irish-born writer living in England, returns to her home country to research a nineteenth-century divorce case. In this bittersweet novel, storylines past and present are filled with themes of passion and regret as Kathleen journeys toward self-discovery and wisdom. Reviewed by
CC
The Hills at Home Nancy Clark
Fiction
It's 1989 in New England and Lily's extended family comes for a visit, but as the weeks continue, they show no inclination to leave. The dynamics of family relationships are explored in this first novel by Nancy Clark, an author to watch. Reviewed by
MMS
Dark Matter: The Private Life of Sir Isaac Newton Philip Kerr
Fiction
Its 1696 and a series of murders are plaguing the Tower of London. Newton has assumed the position of warden of the royal mint with the younger Ellis serving as his assistant. Ellis' narration illuminates a city tormented by pestilence, poverty and a multitude of unscrupulous characters. Using Newton's newly developed scientific method, the two investigators analytically uncover layers of obfuscation to reveal an astonishing solution to the mystery. Reviewed by
jsc
The Adventures of Flash Jackson William Kowalski
Fiction
Haley's seventeenth summer begins with her fall through the barn roof-not a propitious beginning to a pivotal year, but how it leads her to a journey of self-discovery makes a compelling read. Reviewed by
MMS
Family History: A Novel Dani Shapiro
Fiction
This story proves the quote that "life is messy". It's the story of a family that does everything right, yet a series of minor events leads to everything falling apart. A wonderful story of choices, love, anger, hope, and what family means. Reviewed by
sjc
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