Pam Webb

Reader Roundup: November

November had its share of hits and misses. I usually start reading a new book just before going to bed. I’ll get about 25 pages in before I decide if it’s a go on or not. My husband tosses out a comment of “another miss, huh?” Yup. There are simply too many books I have yet to read to be willing to work with one that doesn’t work for me. Here are the hits. The misses are long gone.

A riveting premise, one that mixes science with mythology with equal respect to both. Each character is well-developed and the separate plot threads are given full attention as well. The author’s flippant prose adds light, appropriate humor.

The driven selfishness of each character emphasizes the importance of finding balance in one’s pursuits. The ending was a bit rushed and somewhat ambiguous, yet had an appropriate finality to an engaging story.

The ambiguity of the novel’s beginning absolutely pulls the reader in and the build up to that moment is well worth the progressive tale of Shan, a plucky boy who overcomes great odds to achieve a well-deserved happy ending.

Impressive historical detail involving immigrants, cultural traditions, and prison life make this an engaging read. Shan is a character the reader definitely roots for throughout the story.

Hesse presents a different perspective of WWII by setting her story in Amsterdam. The Germans have established occupation and are beginning to round up the Jewish population. There are citizens who begin hiding Jews, but this is not the initial emphasis of the story. Instead, the author focuses on the independent Hanneke who supports her family as a receptionist and by delivering black market goods.

The story takes a turn when one of her clients asks her to find the girl she has been hiding, a Jewish girl who seemingly disappeared. From that point Hanneke becomes obsessed with finding the girl to the point of jeopardizing lives.

Well-written, carefully researched, the story illustrates the different ways people responded to the war effort. Although considered YA it could easily pass for an adult read.

Anyone needing a boost in the get happy department should seek out Mike Allegra’s story of how one delightful capybara interjected a welcome dose of floofy good cheer amidst the critters in his neighborhood. A smile is guaranteed with the uplifting text and winsome illustrations.

Getting lost in a good book. So satisfying. Anyone get lost recently?