Hello All,
We met for our October Bookshare at the home of Liz Orton on Thursday, November 7th so it wouldn't conflict with Halloween. LIz served some wonderful clam chowder along with some delicious fresh fruit, cookies and brownies.
Here are the books that were discussed:
MARLENE MATHESON
Hidden Yellow Stars by Rebecca Connolly
The story line is worthy of telling and is based on two actual women - Andree Guelen and Ida Sterno - who work with a group in Belgium who are removing Jewish children from their homes and parents to protect them from Hitler’s regime.
The written story itself is a little disappointing, especially for Rebecca Connolly; it is somewhat repetitive and trite. But I don’t regret listening to it, as it is one more in the cadre of accounts of heroic people who fought quietly and clandestinely to defeat evil. The most remarkable aspects of the story are that the women - one a Jew who was captured and sent to a camp - survived. Andree (the non-Jew) lived to 100 years of age, and remembered every child’s real and assumed name. Every one.
Running For My Life by Lopez Lomong, Mark Tabb
A delightful personal account of his triumphant life, and his faith and gratitude to God, Lopez Joseph Lomong tells his story, from being captured by terrorists in South Sudan to his Olympics competition and his college degree, both achieved as a U.S. citizen. Lomong gives all the credit for his success and happiness to God and to his adopted country, America.
Definitely a worthwhile, gratitude-inducing story that I can recommend to anyone.
I Heard There Was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine
By Daniel J. Levitin
This is a surprising and persuasive treatise about music therapy; more specifically and scientifically, the power of music to heal and change the brain and even the life of an individual.
It’s also heavily scientific regarding the brain - its parts, functions and capacities. Extensive research on various cognitive diseases verifies music’s value and resilience in brain care and general brain health. Since I once wanted to be a brain surgeon, I found these scientific explanations and details to be fascinating. But the details may not be appealing to everyone.
There is a remarkable anecdote about the singer Joni Mitchell, who suffered a brain aneurysm. It illustrates two things the author’s research brought forth: many musicians and artists suffer brain disorders; and most - yes, most - were healed or increased in quality of life, through music.
There is also some questioning about why so many musicians and other artists have, through the centuries, suffered from mental health and other physical challenges. Did/does music soothe the savage beast, so these tortured souls chose music as medication? Or does the music in them drive the torment? There is no definitive answer given.
Chapter 14 shared some particularly touching information about the potential for nations to get along, to make peace, through music. Every chapter feels like, on one hand, a beneficial mini-course; and on the other, a delightful intellectual narrative from a friend.
Very early in the book, Friedrich Nietzsche is quoted as saying “Life without music would be a mistake.” I think we would all agree. A remarkable book I would recommend to anyone who delights in music, and in learning.
“Daniel J. Levitin is a visionary neuroscientist, an extraordinary musician, and a brilliant writer…” Quote from NYT best-selling author Daniel Gilbert. His words, my sentiments.
11/22/62 by Stephen King
This is the first Stephen King novel I have attempted, and I only did because a trusted friend said it wasn’t typical Stephen King. It wasn’t. Nothing horror or frightening about it! Rather, a well-researched history-based time travel fantasy based around the assassination of Pres John F. Kennedy. I can’t recommend it fully because of the language, but I listened to this 30+ hours book on a slightly faster speed and minimally noticed the ugly words. But I really enjoyed the feel of listening to a friend or acquaintance tell his strange story. Fascinating.
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
A poetic ode to nature, indigenous peoples, storytelling, and intelligent womanhood. Written by a scientist, teacher, and indigenous (Potowatomi) woman, this story is our story - womankind’s story. It is filled with interesting (and often tragic) facts and history, packed with the logic of Native lifestyles, and wrapped in an appreciation for all gifts in nature - from wild pecans and strawberries, the natural pairing of goldenrod and asters, to lessons in nature’s management and the power of ceremony.
In a chapter about languages (and the flaws of English because there is no category for animacy), she makes a tie between the Hebrew word Yahweh, whom we know as Jehovah, with the Potowatomi word Yawe (pronounced the same), which means I am or you are; BEING.
I have only shared bits and thoughts from the first quarter of this amazing book. It’s packed with wisdom, humor and philosophy. I have to share one more: the Onondaga Nation (Where Ms Kimmerer lives) teaches its children to begin each each day with a gratitude and unity address (similar to yet wholly unlike the pledge of allegiance). Each part of creation is thanked for its part in doing its part for the others. “It reminds you each day… to have an outlook of contentment and respect for all of creation. You can’t listen to the Thanksgiving address without feeling wealthy.” There is more about leadership, and uniting, not by majority vote but by bringing our minds together as one. It’s similar to the way the Church of Jesus Christ is governed through the Twelve.
With her message of appreciation, respect, gratitude and humble leadership, I think our nation would be restored, transformed even, if every leader read this book and implemented its message.
It’s a beautiful book. I bought it. And that says everything.
PS. I love this idea, and have to share it with y’all: “I like the ecological idea of aging as progressive enrichment rather than progressive loss.”
The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson
As different from the other books I’ve shared this month as any book could be, it still has a common thread (which seems to happen most months): the book provokes, for me, the sensation of hearing it from a (in this case, hilarious) friend.
A tale of an idyllic childhood in the 1950s, Bryson is hilarious. Many of us can remember or at least relate to thinking our life was the coolest and most remarkable, only to grow up and see the tarnish. I felt quite sad as the last chapters described what I saw in my adolescence: a breakdown of that sweet innocence of childhood and American life. Just as life got crustier, so did Bryson’s writing, so I didn’t enjoy the end as much as the earlier chapters. But he wraps it well, with a bittersweet and accurate ending. Definitely different than my usual choices, but loads of fun.
The Moment of Lift by Melinda French Gates
This book was a gift from my liberal and feminist daughter Andrea. She thought I would love it; I loved the idea of talking about it with her.
But almost immediately, I realized she was right. I felt a resonance in Melinda Gates’ words, and a newfound respect for her and for her famously rich husband, as the story unfolded. (I’ve since learned that their marriage wasn’t the idealistic relationship she described; while sad for her, I’m also uncertain if there are other false or misleading details.)
I may not be a feminist in the way I grew up thinking of the concept, but I am an avid and passionate proponent of protecting and lifting women. So, while I don’t agree with everything she says, I admire her passionate fervor, along with her unexpected determination to stay grounded and aware of a suffering world, and raise children with the same values. I’m surprised, I’m impressed, and I’m humbled by my preconceived judgements. I now believe I could enjoy talking with her, if such an outrageous circumstance ever materialized.
Here’s a beautiful quote (because I like to share quotes from books 
) from the book, a statement from her friend Killian:
“To be known without being loved is terrifying. To be loved without being known has no power to change us. But to be deeply known, and deeply loved, transforms us. “
There were many wise gems, and I’m really grateful my daughter gave me the audio book (I might not have read a physical copy for years…)
The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obiama
Biafra. What do you think of when you hear that word? I was completely ignorant of the history of this country, its short but bloodiest war that mirrors so many other parts of Africa, and the spirit of freedom that lived on after its defeat. I only knew there were starving children there for a time. This story is a first-hand account of a young man named Kumle, who lives, dies, and lives again through that battle for freedom from European rule; and who, in seeking his missing brother, finds himself drafted on pain of death as a soldier in the war.
“War, he thinks, is something inherent in mankind; to strike another for a cause, no matter what the cause might be. “ this quote speaks an uncomfortable truth for all of us.
But this story has so many additional layers and messages, I can’t do it justice in a review. Nor can I appropriately articulate those layers and meanings. If you want to better understand Africa, and Nigeria in particular, and you’re ready for a classically poetic and also mystical African telling, this book is for you. But be prepared to drown at times.
Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade By Janet Skeslien Charles
Yet another novel set in war time; this is WWI, and is centered on the group created by the daughter of JP Morgan. CARD (French acronym for Comite’ Americain pour les Regions Devaste’) the American Committee for Devastated France was Ann Morgan’s magnanimous effort to rescue France. The centerpiece heroine (there are many heroines in this story based on truth and real people) is an American girl named Jesse Carson.
This story is also about a 1987 fictional wannabe writer, Wendy Peterson, who discovers the CARD story and is determined to enlighten everyone.
Here’s a quote from Jesse “Kit”, regarding their work to save war-torn and damaged people by bringing them books, usually against objections and stereotypical pushback:
“Everyone should ask, ‘why do I think this? What is a strong counter-argument? How did growing up the way I did inform what I believe now? Why does this book, or belief, make me uncomfortable?’ [Questioning oneself] is not a weakness, but a strength. “
A lovely, powerful story about powerful, courageous women; well worth reading or listening.
BETH HEDENGREN
A World of Curiosities (#18) by Louise Penny
Chief Inspector Armand Gamache of Quebec once again solves the case with wisdom and generosity. Two young people return to Gamache’s quiet village of Three Pines; their mother was murdered, and the case was never quite resolved. There are flashbacks to that murder, which is when Gamache met his now son-in-law and second in command Jean-guy Beauvoir. As they unravel past and present mysteries, the kindness and goodness of the villagers prevail, as always.
Whose Body? (#1) By Dorothy L. Sayers
The first Lord Peter Wimsey mystery. Peter is one of my favorite sleuths and I often return to him for comfort. Foppishly silly and clever as heck, Wimsey always solves the case (with the help of his butler, the indispensable Bunter).
The Patron Saint of Liars by Ann Patchett
Patchett’s first book. Lyrically written, a joy to read just for the language, the story follows a young woman driven to leave her husband when she becomes pregnant. Rose ends up at a home for unwed mothers run by aging nuns. She becomes their cook, marries the caretaker, and stays to raise her daughter. But she is still haunted by demons that keep her from connecting with those who love her. Compassionate and tragic.
Death at La Fenice by Donna Leon
Leon’s mystery series is set in modern Venice and informed by the evidently slow pace of that city. Reading the story feels like a vacation in Venice, with the benefit of seeing the city through the eyes of a native. When the conductor of the opera orchestra is murdered, it is up to Detective Guido Brunetti to solve the mystery. He is gracious, patient, polite, and clever.
Strong Poison by Dorothy L. Sayers
In this mystery, Lord Peter sets about proving the innocence of a young detective writer, Harriet Vane, on trial for poisoning her lover. He has not even met her as the story begins but has fallen deeply in love. He gets permission to investigate the case from the lawyer, visits Harriet in prison, declares his plan to marry her, and then proceeds to find the real murderer. Harriet, intelligent modern woman that she is, laughs at his proclamations of love. However, four books in the future, they do indeed marry!
LIZ ORTON
1.. The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson —the history of Fort Sumpter and beginning of Civil War.
2. Hawk’s Hill by Alan Eckert —based on a true story of young boy who gets lost and lives with a badger for several months.
MARYANN STEVENS
️ Diane Carlson is raised on Minnesota farm. Greatly influenced by her mother, a dedicated nurse, Diane decides to enlist as an army nurse in 1968 & volunteers for service in Vietnam. She describes her service on the frontlines in detail & I’m drawn in. In the San Francisco airport upon her return she is confronted by an anti-war activist & decides never to tell anyone about her experiences in Vietnam. Shortly after returning home, she leaves Minnesota & goes to Washington state where no one knows her to return to nursing. She marries an Army surgeon & has four children but early in their relationship she forbids him to tell anyone she served in Vietnam & warns him to never ask her about her time there. She is very proud of her service & of the brave men & women who served there but is disgusted with the politics that lead to so many needless deaths. Years later she decides to go to the dedication of the Vietnam Wall memorial. She then spends the next ten years working for a memorial to honor the women who also served. Just like the Hello Girls she is met with rabid misogyny & endless regulations. Description of her efforts got a little tedious but the war stories were fascinating.
The Curiosity by Stephen Kiernan 4️ Dr Kate Philo joins a prestigious research team en route to the Arctic Sea to find pure ice; the kind of ice that instantly freezes any life forms that are enveloped. The project head has for years been reanimating low life forms with electric shocks. Now he wants to try his methods on larger life forms, like a fish or a seal. Imagine the surprise when the dive team brings up a completely frozen human being. The story reveals the troubling ethics of ‘reanimating’ an human encountered by both members of the research team and the Christian protestors who insists life & death decisions belong to God. During the research, Kate & “subject one” as the project head refers to him, are in such close contact they slowly & innocently begin to care for each other. How will all this end?
A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold 4.5 This is a classic early conservationist who lived and taught at University of Wisconsin -Madison. He lives in Madison but returns to his farm every weekend and more, as often as he can. This book records his observations of local flora and fauna in each month of the year in such beauty language it is almost poetry.
“the county clerk records that I own 140 acres but he never looks at his books until nine o’clock. On an early July morning I own all I trod on.”
The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway 4.5 The author studies the tragic civil war through the eyes of 4 citizens of Sarajevo. Snipers shoot innocents, disrupt all the basic necessities of life. Each of his subject struggles through the hideous nature of the city’s destruction differently. There is no water system and people have to literally dodge snipers to make the journey to the ancient brewery with a spring to fill jugs and then dodge them again to return to waiting families. One man delivers water every four days to an old woman he doesn’t even like. The premier cellist of the city’s famous symphony & opera sees 22 people gunned down in one afternoon while they waited in line for bread. He dresses in his tux and sits in the square where they were murdered every day at 4 o’clock and plays the same sorrowful melody for 22 days. A young woman is drafted into the resistance as a counter-sniper because she was the best sharpshooter in the university’s rifle club. She agrees only if she works alone and chooses her targets, she follows no orders in an attempt to kill only those who are obviously enemy soldiers. The commander who agreed to this arrangement is assassinated by a rival member of the resistance. She is ordered by those who assassinated her commander to shoot an old man who might be an uncover enemy. She refuses and pays with her life. A foreign photographer sees a victim of an enemy sniper who is still laying in the road in his blood. Before he can record the event on his camera, passerby moves the lifeless man out of the road and covers his body. No one is going to record a body on the street in his once-beautiful city. None these actions changes the trajectory of the war, but it allows each citizen to live with the life they are forced now to endure. So poignant.
Mrs. Polifax Unveiled by Dorothy Gillman 3.5 Mrs. Polifax is contacted to find and return an American woman who has been kidnapped by terrorists in Syria. She and her partner escape death multiple times.
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