Recent Reads: "Family News", "Little Earthquakes" and "Hold Tight"

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It is book review time, once again.  I enjoy finding used books at great prices, giving them a read and then telling you about them.  Some are older books, and some are newer ... it just depends on what I find.  These are the three books that I have read over the past few weeks, and each one cost me $1.00.

Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

"Family News", by Joan Barfoot, was published in 1989.  It is about a more-or-less non-traditional family (at that time, anyway).  Susannah is a bold and strong woman who decides to make a baby with her boyfriend of long ago, Teddy.  The story is about their daughter, Lizzie, them, their friends, and Susannah's estranged family.  They live their lives, change and grow during the six months that the story is told.  It is a good book, and the author gives the main characters their voice and viewpoint in different chapters.  I liked it fine, and if you run across it sometime I recommend it as a satisfying choice.

Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

This Jennifer Weiner novel was written in 2004.  This is only the second book of hers that I have read, but I will be scooping up each one that I find from now on. They are fast and easy to read, with terrific insights.  I loved "Goodnight Nobody", and she has many more.  Here is a link to info on all of her books her other books: "CLICK HERE".

"Little Earthquakes" is about four women who meet as they are having their first babies, and it follows them and their families through that first year.  Each character is so well developed, along with their husbands, mothers, mother-in-laws ... lovable or not.  This book is so well done that I do believe that most pregnant women could benefit by reading it.  Little Earthquakes is a term that somebody in the book calls the effect an addition of a first baby makes.  I really got into the story and each individual character, and I loved the book.  Read it if you get a chance!  If you have recently lost a baby though, parts of it may be difficult ... though it is honest and well written.  The focus of this book is on the healing power of friends, family and love.

Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy ~ Kathy Matthews

I have read many of Harlan Coben's books, and he never disappoints me.  His books are not always super deep, but he does his research well and the books are action packed and full of original ideas. 

"Hold Tight" was published in 2008, and is about how parents worried about their kid begin spying on him through his computer and cell phone.  This book takes us into the world of prescription drug use by teens and the use of technology by everybody.  There is a dangerous bad guy, protective parents, medical emergencies, with twists and turns at every corner.  It is a quick and easy read, and takes your mind off of your everyday issues.  I recommend any Harlan Coben book for a nice escape, including this one. 

I am currently reading a three complete novels in one book by Anne Tyler.  I am nearing the end of "The Accidental Tourist".  Next comes "Breathing Lessons" and then "Searching for Caleb".  I don't remember what happens in "Searching for Caleb" at all, though I do think that I have read it before.  I am relishing The Accidental Tourist though, even though this is probably my fourth time reading it over the years.  I love Anne Tyler's books, which help me remember that every family is unique and a bit odd.  

So, if you have read any of the books mentioned here today, please leave your comment and tell us what you thought about it.  

Have a great day! 

~ Kathy M.

At Oregon Gifts of Comfort and Joy, if you miss a day, you miss a lot!  All material on this post is copyrighted and not for use without my permission ...Please click here to go to my home page and see what is happening in Mayberry today.