Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
Notes to John.
Notes to John by Joan Didion. The insightfulness, transparency, honesty, and meticulous detail of Didion's writing is beyond compelling. Review by Sandra Novick.
The News. Just Thinking Out Loud…
Just Thinking Out Loud…
So, we have this “germ” of a concept. Every day we are astounded by the news that is reported. We have comments, questions, ideas about it! We decided to record them here, journal-style. OK then, ONWARD. Here we go! Today we were wondering about the $20 billion for Argentina.
Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
Theft
The new novel, by Nobel Prize winning author Abdulrazak Gurnah, is a carefully crafted story about each of the three main characters finding themselves, despite and because of their complicated pasts. A joy to read and highly recommended! Review by Barry Novick.
Wild Geese.
Wild Geese by Mary Oliver.
Mary Oliver advises us that we don’t have to try so hard! No matter who you are, be true to yourself and the world will be open to you to find your place. Inspiring!
Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
Intermezzo
A beautifully written book by Sally Rooney, Intermezzo tells the story of two brothers grieving the loss of their father. They navigate a complicated relationship that is bolstered by their commitment to one another and love. Review by Barry Novick.
Business Notes. “Big Lou.”
Big Lou is Just Like You.
Target Market: the 50 to 60 year old man that has married his “trophy wife.” Really? Marketing lesson. By Sandra Novick.
Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
Tell Me Everything.
By Pulitzer Prize winning author Elizabeth Strout. How much did I love this book? A lot! An honest depiction of real life, relationships, love, hate, good, and evil. The writing is both impeccable and down to earth. No problem if you haven't read Strout’s previous work, you can jump right in. Review Sandra Novick.
Fireflies
Fireflies.
Remember when hundreds of fireflies lit up the summer lawns? A symbol of summer, Fireflies by Mary Oliver, reminds us of the beauty, lushness, and essence of summer. An exquisite poem about nature and fruition.
Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
Three Days in June
In Anne Tyler’s most recent novel, truths unfold during main character Gail Baines’ daughter’s wedding weekend. In Tyler’s signature style, the story reveals how tenuous relationships can be, but also how resilient the human spirit is. And, there is a cat. Rescued too, like all of them. Review by Barry Novick.
The Recipe.
The Recipe.
Poet Laureate Ada Limón packs this poem with imagery so relatable, that we easily identify with the relationship she so aptly describes. A wonderful, thought-provoking read.
Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
After Annie.
Pulitzer Prize winning author Anna Quindlen’s latest novel, After Annie, does not disappoint. Beautifully written, it is the story of a family struggling with their grief upon losing Annie—mother, wife, care giver, friend. It is a great read, and despite all, it leaves one feeling hopeful. Review Sandra Novick.
Book Shorts. Reviews in a Nutshell.
Fever Beach
You can expect the unexpected in typical Carl Hiassen style! With a cast of misguided, eccentric characters that only Hiassen could conjure up, Fever Beach is hilarious. A great summer read! Review by Barry Novick.