 | Title: Human Smoke: The beginnings of World War II, the end of civilization Author: Baker, Nicholson Summary: Using direct quotes and excerpts from letters, published articles, public statements, speeches, and testimony, Baker illuminates the path from the 1930s to World War 2 He shatters myths and exposes hypocrisy while giving voice to nay-sayers, common people, and power brokers. |
 | Title: A Table by the Window Author: Blackwell, Lawana Summary: An English teacher finds her life turned upside down by an inheritance, a bit of mystery, and a romance. I enjoyed all the characters as well as the action packed plot. The story includes a lot of excitement and drama. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this excellent book and did not want it to end. |
 | Title: A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail Author: Bryson, Bill Summary: Bryson gives a totally engaging account of his attempt to hike the complete Appalachian Trail. With humor and fascinating detail, he begins with the preparation for the walk. The reader joins him on an emotionally and physically challenging journey. Many historical facts, most of them very interesting, are thrown in along the way. |
 | Title: The Royal Treatment Author: Davidson, MaryJanice Summary: Davidson has written an entertaining romance centered around the idea of a modern-day King of Alaska selecting a wife for his heir. The uncouth, Cinderella-ese Christine hits it off with king-to-be David and then takes the Juneau palace by storm. If you can accept Alaska as an independent country with a monarch, you'll be highly entertained by Christine and David's opposites attract romance. A quirky, modern-day retelling the princess stories from our youth. |
 | Title: Outlander Author: Gabaldon, Diana Summary: Outlander is the first book in this series about love and the mysteries of time travel. Gabaldon also delves in depth into Scottish history around the Jacobite Rebellion starting in 1745. Davina Porter is the best narrator I've ever heard, aside from Jim Dale in the Harry Potter audiobooks. Very entertaining! |
 | Title: The Letter of the Law Author: Green, Tim Summary: This legal thriller carries the theory of reasonable doubt all the way to its climactic ending. The lead characters are a hot, young, female attorney, a seasoned cop, an aging FBI agent, and a former NFL star. Green keeps you guessing through the entire book. |
 | Title: Farewell My Concubine Author: Li, Bihua Summary: Two male opera singers become involved in an unusual love triangle. Li traces their relationship from childhood into old age. Meanwhile China is ruled by warlords, occupied by Japan, becomes Communist, and survives the Cultural Revolution. I thought the book was much better than the movie; eventhough the movie won at the Cannes Film Festival. |
 | Title: Change of Heart Author: Picoult, Jodi Summary: Picoult tells an engaging story and makes you think at the same time. She delves into issues of death-row prison inmates, mother-daughter relationships, organ donation and transplanting, and religious faith. The characters are wonderful, but the story itself becomes so vivid that you find yourself wondering what you would do in this situation. I plan to read it again! |
 | Title: A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose Author: Tolle, Eckhart Summary: An excellent book that does not present any particular religion, but a wonderfully inclusive philosophy. Tolle builds on The Power of Now. I found it both enlightening and practical. I discovered it at just the right time to use its guidance. Related Materials |
 | Title: The Lady Elizabeth Author: Weir, Alison Summary: The Lady Elizabeth provides a close look at the life of Queen Elizabeth before she becomes queen. Weir takes us into the world of court intrigue and humanizes Elizabeth by showing the trials she faces as a young girl. A very enjoyable fictionalized account of a historically important person. |