There's Something About Christmas

There's Something About Christmas by Debbie Macomber

Emma Collins is frustrated with her job writing obituaries at The Puyallup Examiner. So, of course she jumps at the chance to interview three finalists in a national fruitcake recipe contest. Unfortunately, her boss also requires her to fly to each assignment. Overcoming her fear of flying (and her distrust of the charming pilot), Emma learns about more than baking from each contestant.

This story begins as a lighthearted, predictable romance, but once Emma begins her interviews, the story shifts to a more introspective tale. She learns how to see the good in life, and realizes that she can and should change her outlook and expectations of others.

***** 5 Fruitcake Stars

The Grimm Legacy

The Grimm Legacy by Polly Schulman

Reading Level: 4.0

AR Points: 11

Elizabeth, having trouble fitting in her new school and with her new step-family, is delighted to get a job with the New York Circulating Material Repository. She slowly begins to learn that fairy tales could be real, and is intrigued by the Grimm collection, devoted to magical objects from the Brother's tales. Some of the objects, however, begin to disappear, and it is up to Elizabeth and the other pages to solve the mystery.

This was a cute book. I figured out what was happening fairly early in the story, but it didn't really matter. I actually preferred the character interactions, and the stories behind the Repository. However, the adults were dim and of course didn't believe a word the teens told them. Thankfully the story focused on the kids.

**** 4 Fantastical Stars

Paranormalcy

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Reading Level: 4.1

AR Points: 10

Evie has always envied normal teens, but unfortunately she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, is constantly harrassed by a handsome but self-centered fairy, and is falling for a shape-shifter... not exactly normal.

Although the typical vampire-werewolf-alien topics are running out of steam, this is not your typical book. Evie is smart but not a brain, nice but not stupid, pretty but not gorgeous. I liked her, and so I liked the story. The story could have a sequel, but still wraps up everything well & doesn't leave you hanging.

***** 5 Surprised Stars

Black Like Me

Black Like Me by John Howard Griffin

Reading Level: 7.0

AR Points: 11 Points

In 1959, the white author transforms himself using medication and dye in order to live as a black man in the South. His travels begin in New Orleans, wends through various small Southern towns, and ends up in Atlanta, while he tries to discover how blacks are really treated.

I thought this was a fascinating book. I still cannot fathom the reasoning behind "separate but equal" treatment... especially when Griffin can't find a decent hotel or cafe that will serve blacks, let alone a "colored" bathroom. Whites who think they are unprejudiced are too afraid to help blacks when racists are around, and trust between the races is almost non-existent.

Another mind-boggling part of this story was the reaction of his hometown in Texas once Griffin returns home & publicizes his book. The racists even anonymously threaten his mother! I guess this isn't surprising to anyone who lived through the Civil Rights Movement of the '60's... I'm just grateful that I never had to witness this cruelty and unreasonable hatred.
***** 5 Enlightening Stars

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist, gets a strange offer from Henrik Vanger: solve the disapperance of Henrik's great-niece almost 40 years ago. In exchange, Henrik will give information on the man who is responsible for Mikael's damaged reputation. Along the way, Mikael enlists Lisbeth Salander, an antisocial genius with issues.

Sounds like it would be an interesting book, right? It's even a runaway bestseller! But, unless you like perversion and serial killers, this book is NOT for you. I was disappointed since I was told what a wonder book it was... bummer. ** 2 Sad Stars