Whisper1 (Linda's) Thread #9 of 2016 75 Challenge Group

October in Pennsylvania is beautiful. The leaves, normally more colorful at this time, are just beginning to change. Still, I know later this month, the cold winds will arrive and the leaves will put on a show that touches the heart and warms the soul.

WELCOME TO THREAD NUMBER NINE
HERE IS A LIST OFBOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JANUARY, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JANUARY 2016

1) Warm as Wool by Scott Russell Sanders
2) The Ghost of Nicholas Greebe by Tony Johnston
3) Homeplace by Cynthia Rylant
4) Albie's First Word: A Tale Inspired by Albert Einstein's Childhood by Jacqueline Tourville
5) The Floating House by Russell Sanders
6) Snowed in With Grandmother Silk by Carol Fenner
7) Toads and Diamonds by Charlotte S. Huck
8) Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merian by Margareta Engel
9) Hansel and Gretel by Cynthia Rylant
10) Milly and the Macy's Parade by Shana Corey
11) The Raft by Jim LaMarche
12) P.Zonka Lays An Egg by Julie Paschkis
13) Lena's Sleep Sheep by Anita Lobel
14) Waiting by Kevin Henkes -- 2016 Caldecott Honor award
15) Apple Cake by Julie Pachkis
16) The Perfect Wizard The Hans Christian Andersen by Jane Yolen
17) Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews
18) When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Munoz Ryan

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JANUARY 2016

1) The Disappeared by Kristina Ohlsson
2) The Taming of the Queen by Phillippa Gregory
3) Best Boy by Eli Gottlieb
4) Women I Have Dressed and Undressed by Arnold Scaasi
5) Poetry for Young People: Edgar Allan Poe by Brad Bagert
6) Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
7) Jane Eyre Bloom's Modern Critical Interpretations by Harold Bloom
8) Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson Newbery Honor award 2016
9) Charles James: Beyond Fashion Metropolitan Art Museum by Harold Koda
10) April 4, 1968: Martin Luter King, Jr.'s Death and How it Changed America by Michael Dyson
11) Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

Favorite Illustrated Book of January 2016

Favorite Non Illustrated Book of January 2016


BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JANUARY 2016

1) With Lots of Love at Christmas by Christine Leeson
2) All the Numbers by Judy Merrill Larsen
3) American Wife by Sittenfeld, Curtis
4) Anne of Green Gables (Young Reader's Classics) by L. M. Montgomery
5) Anpao: An American Indian Odyssey by Jamake Highwater, Fritz Scholder (Illustrator) Newbery honor
6) The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich
7) The Blizzard by Jim Murphy
8) The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz
9) The Cable Car and the Dragon by Herb Caen CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
10) Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink
11) The Canning Season by Polly Horvath
12) The Capture (Guardians of Ga'hoole, Book 1) by Kathryn Lasky
13) I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
14) A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
15) The Chilling Hour: Tales of the Real and Unreal by Collin A. McDonald Young Adult
16) The Christmas Carol and Other Christmas Classics by Charles Dickens
17) The Creeds: Reflections and Scripture on the Apostles' and Nicene by Zondervan
18) Crow Boy by Taro Yashima CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK, CALDECOTT WINNER
19) Dark Voyage by Alan Furst
20) Dearest Friend: A Life of Abigail Adams by Lynne Withey
21) Diogenes by M. D. Usher, Michael Chesworth (Illustrator) CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
22) The Duchess Of Windsor: The Secret Life by Charles Higham
23) The Enchanted Life of Adam Hope: A Novel by Rhonda Riley
24) Every Soul A Star by Wendy Mass
25) Firegirl by Tony Abbott Young Adult
26) Flowers in the World's Most Beautiful Gardens by Yves-Marie Allain, Alain Le Toquin
27) The Funny Little Woman by Arlene Mosel, Illustrations by Blair Lent CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED
28) George Balanchine's The Nutcracker photographed and told by Joel Meyerowitz
29) The Ghost in the Mirror (Lewis Barnavelt) by John Bellairs
30) Girl Who Loved Wild Horses written and illustrated by Paul Goble
31) Goody Hall by Natalie Babbitt
32) The Great Migration: An American Story byJacob Lawrence, CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
33) Green Boy by Susan Cooper Young Adult
34) Griffin's Castle by Jenny Nimmo Young Adult
35) Guttersnipe by Jane Cutler Emily Arnold McCully (Illustrator) CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
36) Hasty Pudding, Johnny Cakes and Other Good Stuff by Loretta Frances Ichord
37) Horns and Wrinkles by Joseph Helgerson Young Adult
38) Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
39) I'm Nobody! Who are You?: Poems by Emily Dickinson by Edric S. Mesmer
40) If I Were in Charge of the World and Other Worries: Poems for Children and Other Writings by Judith Viorst
41) Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison by Lois Lenski Newbery honor book
42) Jesus: An Illustrated Life by Isbouts, Jean-Pierre
43) Jim the Boy by Tony Earley
44) John Henry: An American Legend by Ezra Jack Keats
45) The Journey (Guardians of Ga'hoole byKathryn Lasky Young Adult
46) The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling
47) The Kennedy Years: From the Pages of The New York Times by Richard Reeves
48) The Life and Death of Crazy Horse by Russell Freedman , Amos Bad Heart Bull (Illustrator)
49) Lincoln and Douglass: An American Friendship by Nikki Giovanni Bryan Collier (Illustrator)
50) A Little House Christmas: Holiday Stories From the Little House Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, Garth Williams (Illustrator)
51) Little Triggers: a novel of crime by Martyn Waites
52) The Littles And Their Amazing New Friend by John Peterson, Roberta Carter Clark (Illustrator) Juvenile book
53) The Littles Go Exploring by John Peterson, Roberta Carter Clark (Illustrator)
54) The Littles Take a Trip by John Peterson, Roberta Carter Clark Illustrator
55) A Long Way Down by Nick Hornby
56) Longbourn by Jo Baker
57) The Maid A Novel of Joan of Arc by Kimberly Cutter
58) Martin Luther King, Jr. Revised: I Have a Dream: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Dr. King's Landmark Speech by Sandie Smith
59) May I Bring a Friend? by Beatrice de Regniers, Beni Montresor
60) The Miserable Mill (A Series of Unfortunate Events byLemony Snicket
61) The Musee D'Orsay by Bonfante-Warren, Alexandra
62) Mutant Message Down Under, Tenth Anniversary Edition by Marlo Morgan
63) My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece by Annabel Pitcher
64) My Son John by Jim Aylesworth, David Frampton (Illustrator) CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
65) Never Come Back by David Bell
66) The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore with illustrations of Henry Fisher
67) The Nightmare Before Christmas written and illustrated by Tim Burton
68) No Man's Nightingale: An Inspector Wexford Novel by Ruth Rendell
69) No Star Nights by Anna Egan Smucker Steve Johnson (Illustrator), Lou Fancher (Illustrator)
70) Old Masters by Salomon Lilian
71) The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan
72) Passing On by Penelope Lively
73) Poems of Childhood by Eugene Field, Maxfield Parris (Illustrator)
74) Prairie Dog Town by Janette Oke, Brenda Mann (Illustrator) Juvenile Book
75) The Ramsay Scallop by Frances Temple
76) Santa's Twin BY Dean Koontz Phil Parks(Illustrator) CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
77) The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
78) Shooting the Moon by Frances O'Roark Dowell
79) Slam by Nick Hornby Young Adult
80) Sojourner Truth: Ain't I a Woman? by Patricia C. McKissak
81) The Talking Earth by Jean Craighead George
82) The Tender Bar by J.R. Moehringe
83) Things Not Seen by Andrew Clements Young Adult
84) To Be a King (Guardians of Ga'hoole, Book 11 by Kathryn Lasky Young Adult
85) Trading Places: Allowing God to Renovate Your Life by Steve Wyatt
86) Transcending: Reflections Of Crime Victims byHoward Zehr
87) The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
88) Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
89) The Underneath by Kathi Appelt David Sma (Illustrator) Newbery Honor
90) Unremarried Widow by Artis Henderson
91) Vessels of Honor by Virginia Myers
92) A Visit to William Blake's Inn by Nancy Willard Winner of both Caldecott and Newbery awards. Young Adult
93) We Fought Back: Teen Resisters of the Holocaust by Allan Zullo
94) When Dad Killed Mom by Julius Lester Young Adult
95) Worth by A. LaFaye Young Adult
96) The Wretched Stone by Chris Van Allsburg CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK
97) Yolanda's Genius by Carol Fenner Young Adult
98) You're Invited: A Cookbook for Special Occasions by Mary Engelbreit

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN FEBRUARY, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN FEBRUARY OF 2016

19) Pals by Mary Engelbreit
20) Once Upon a Twice by Denise Doyen
21) Little Fir Tree by Margaret Wise Brown with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
22) Ain't Nobody a Stranger To Me by Ann Grifalconi
23) Albert by Donna Jo Napoli with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
24) The Elves and the Shoemaker by Jim LaMarche
25) Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena 2016 Caldecott Honor Award
26) A Child's Good Night Book by Margaret Wise Brown
27) Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse by Leo Lionni 1970 Caldecott Honor Award
28) Dream Animals by Emily Winfield Martin
29) The Rainbabies by Laura Krauss Melmed with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
30) Lost and Found: Three Dog Stories by Jim LaMarche
31) The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye by Jane Yolen
32) A Single Shard by Donna Jo Napoli
33) Ouch by Natalie Babbitt
34) Officer Buckle & Gloria by Peggy Rathmann

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN FEBRUARY OF 2016

12) Poetry for Young People: Emily Dickinson by Frances Schoonmaker
13) Zora and Me by Victoria Bond
14) A Song For Harlem by Patricia McKissack
15) Did You Ever Have a Family by Bill Clegg
16) Abby Takes a Stand by Patricia McKissack
17) Bonechiller by Graham McNamee
18) The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley Newbery Honor 2016
19) The Dreamer by Pam Munoz Ryan

Favorite Illustrated Book of February 2016

Favorite Non-Illustrated Book of February 2016

===================================================

BOOKS ACQUIRED IN FEBRUARY OF 2016

99) 100 Dresses: The Costume Institute / The Metropolitan Museum of Art by Harold Koda
100) Abby Takes A Stand by Patricia McKassick
101) The Adventures of Pinocchio (Sterling Illustrated Classics) by Carlo Collodi
102) Aesop's Fables by Charles Santore
103) Alexander and the Wind-Up Mouse by Leo Leonni
104) Always Remember Me: How One Family Survived World War II BY Russo, Marisabina
105) I Am A Pole by Steven Colbert
106) The American Plague: The Untold Story of Yellow Fever, the Epidemic that Shaped Our History by Molly Caldwell Crosby
107) And Not Afraid To Dare: The Stories of Ten African-American Women by Tonya Bolden
108) Angel by Gary Kiliworth
109) Angels on the Roof by Martha Moore
110) Anil's Ghost by Ondaatje, Michael
111) Anna the Bookbinder by Andrea Cheng
112) Anne Morrow Lindberg: Her Life by Susan Hertzog
113) Anthony and the Ants by Gemma raynor
114) Apostle Paul by Nancy I. Sanders
115) The Art of Keeping Cool by Janet Taylor Lisle
116) As Good As Anybody by Michelson, Richard
117) Beautiful Lies by Jessica Warman
118) Before My Eyes by Caroline Bock
119) Behind the Bookcase by Steensland, Mark
120) The Black House by Paul Theroux
121) Blood Meridian: Or the Evening Redness in the West by Cormac McCarthy
122) Bo at Ballard Creek by Kirkpatrick Hill
123) Bobby and Jackie: A Love Story by C. David Heymann
124) Breaking Free: True Stories of Girls Who Escaped Modern Slavery by Abey Sher
125) Bye-Bye Binkey by Brigitte Weninger
126) C. S. Lewis: A Biography by C.N. Wilson
127) The Cage by Ruth Minskey Sender
128) Caleb's Story (Sarah, Plain and Tall Saga) by Patricia MacLaughlan
129) Changing Light by Nora Gallagher
130) A Child's Good Night Book by Margaret Wise Brown
131) The Christmas Wish by Lori Evert
132) The Cinder Eyed Cats by Eric Rothmann
133) Cinderella: A Fairy Tale Adventure (Fairy Tale Adventures) by Franchesca Rossi
134) Cloud Dance by Thomas Locker
135) A Coming Evil by Vande Velde, Vivian
136) Curse in Reverse by Tom Coppinger
137) The Dance of Fear: Rising Above Anxiety, Fear, and Shame to Be Your Best and Bravest Self by Harriett Lerner
138) Day Dreamers: A Journey of Imagination by Emily Winfield Martin
139) Decades: A Century of Fashion by Cameron Silver
140) The Deer Watch by Pat Lowery Collins
141) Drummer Hoff by Barbara Emberley
142) Dulac's Fairy Tale Illustrations in Full Color by Jeff A. Menges
143) Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
144) Every Living Thing by Cynthia Rylant
145) The Fifties in Pictures by James Lescott
146) Finding Inner Courage by Mark Nepo
147) The Flower Ball by Sigrid Lalube
148) Fly High!: The Story of Bessie Coleman by Louise Borden
149) Fly by Christopher Myers
150) The Funny Little Woman (Picture Puffins) by Mosel, Arlene
151) Getting to Happy by Terry McMillan
152) The Golden Goblet (Newbery Library, Puffin) by McGraw, Eloise Jarvis
153) Good Luck Baby Owls by Giles Milton
154) Goodbye Mousie by Robie H. Harris
155) The Grace That Keeps This World by Tom Bailey
156) Grandma's Gift by Eric Valesquez
157) Great Expectations: The Sons and Daughters of Charles Dickens by Robert Gottlieb
158) The House on Tradd Street by Karen White
159) How to Be Good by Nick Hornby
160) I'll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson
161) I, Juan de Pareja by Elizabeth Horton de Trevino
162) Immortal Muse by Stephen Leigh
163) Kate and the Beanstalk by Mary Pope Osborne
164) Killer's Cousin by Nancy Werlin
165) The Killers Tears by Bondoux, Anne-Laure
166) Lark Studio Series: Handmade Dolls by Lark Studios
167) The Last Dickens by Matthew Pearl
168) The Last Leaves Falling by Sarah Benwell
169) The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe by Andrew O'Hagan
170) Lindbergh by A. Scott Berg
171) The Little Bit Scary People by Emily Jenkins
172) Little Red Riding Hood by Trina Schart Hyman
173) The Little Woods by McCormick Templeman
174) Lunch Box Dream by Toni Albert
175) Man's Search for Meaning: An Introduction to Logotherapy by Victor Frankl
176) Many Waters by L'Engle, Madeleine
177) Max and the Tag-Along Moon by Cooper, Floyd
178) The Meaning of Flowers: Myth, Language & Lore by Ann Field
179) The Memory Coat by Elvira Woodruff
180) The Mercy Prayer: The One Prayer Jesus Always Answers by Robert Gelinas
181) Miss Little's Gift by Douglas Wood
182) Mistress of the Sun by Sandra Gulland
183) More, More, More Said The Baby by Vera Williams
184) My Attachment by Tracy Kidder
185) The Name of the Rose by Umberto Echo
186) Never Forgotten by McKissack, Patricia C.
187) Never Home by Laird Hunt
188) The Nine Lives of Alexander Baddenfield by Marciano, John Bemelmans
189) No Pretty Pictures A Child of war by Anita Lobel
190) No Time Like Show Time by Michael Hoeye
191) The Norman Rockwell Treasury by Buechner, Thomas S.
192) Oddfellow's Orphanage by Emily Winfield Martin
193) Outside Over There by Maurice Sendak
194) Pals by Engelbreit, Mary
195) The People Who Didn't Say Goodbye by Merritt Malloy
196) Praise Song for the Day by Elizabeth Alexander
197) The Rainbabies by Jim LaMarche
198) The Rainbow People by Lawrence Yep
199) Reader's Digest Select Editions, Volume 4: Autumn Blue, Bad Luck and Trouble, Tallgrass, Winter's Child by Karen Harter
200) The Red Queen) by Phillipa Gregory
201) Rivers by Michael Farris Smith
202) The Romanov Conspiracy by Glen Meade
203) Sand Dollar Summer by Kimberly K. Jones
204) The Secret of the Rose by Sarah Thompson
205) Seraphina by Rachel Hartman
206) Shadow of the Silk Road by Thubron, Colin
207) Sinners and the Sea: The Untold Story of Noah's Wife by Rebecca Kanner
208) The Slippery Slope (A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 10) by Lemony Snicket
209) A Song For Harlem by Patricia McKissack
210) Sparky by Jenny Ofill
211) St. Patrick's Cathedral by Leland Cook
212) The Storm (The Lighthouse Family) BY Cynthia Rylant
213) Story of a Girl by Sara Zarr
214) The Tangled Bridge by Rhodi Hawk
215) The Tell by Hester Kaplan
216) The Good and Bad Things About My Life by Ann M. Martin
217) The Terrible Thing that Happened to Barnaby Brocket by John Boyne
218) The Hostile Hospital (A Series of Unfortunate Events #8) by Lemony Snicket
219) Theodosia and the Staff of Osiris by R.L. LaFevers
220) This Side of Eternity by McMillan, Rosalyn
221) Through the Evil Days by Julia Spencer-Fleming
222) The Tiger's Wife by Obreht, Tea
223) The Turtle Warrior: A Novel by Ellis, Mary Relindes
224) The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Mathis, Ayana
225) Twisted by Laurie Halse Andersen
226) Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen by DiSalvo-Ryan, DyAnne
227) Victoria: The Romantic Heart by Linda Sunshine
228)) The Vile Village (A Series of Unfortunate Events, No. 7) by Lemony Snicket
229) Vision of Beauty: Candlewick Biographies: The Story of Sarah Breedlove Walker by Kathryn Lasky
230) The Way Back Home by Oliver Jeffries
231) What's Left of Me by Kat Zhang
232) Where the God of Love Hangs Out by Amy Bloom
233) While You Were Napping by Offill, Jenny
234) Who Was Mliton Hershey by James Buckley
235) Wild Wings by Gill Lewis
236) Winter is Coming by Tony Johnson
237) The Witches Curse by Keith McGowan
238) Wither by Lauren DeStefanojust one object.

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF MARCH 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN MARCH, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN MARCH OF 2016

35) What To Do With a Box by Jane Yolen
36) Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange
37) Over-Scheduled Andrew by Ashley Spires
38) What Can You Do With an Idea by Kobi Yamada
39) Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems
40) Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson
41) Charley's First Night by Amy Hest
42) Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear by Mattick
43) In a Small, Small Pond by Denise Fleming
44) Can You Yawn Like a Fawn by Monica Sweeney
45) Fritz and the Beautiful Horses by Jan Brett
46) A Story For Bear by Dennis Haseley with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
47) Bug in a Rug by Melanie Watt
48) Strickly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev
49) Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson
50) Home by Carson Elliw
51) Otto The Owl Who Loved Poetry by Vera Kousky
52) Day Dreamers: A Journey of Imagination by Emily Winfield Martin
53) Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine
54) Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes
55) The Village of Round and Square Houses by Ann Grifalconi
56) The Carousel by Elizabeth Rosen with illustrations of Jim LaMarche
57) The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN MARCH OF 2016
20) Icons of Women's Style by Josh Sims
21) Nightbird by Alice Hoffman
22) 100 Dresses: The Costume Institute The Metropolitan Museum of Art by Harold Koda
23) Everything, Everything by Nicholas Yoon
24) We Are All Made of Molecules by Susin Nielsen
25) The Borden Murders: Lizzie Borden and the Trial of the Century by Sarah Miller
26) The Haunting of Sunshine Girl by Paige McKenzie
27) When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Favorite Illustrated Book of March 2016

Favorite Non-illustrated Book of March 2016

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BOOKS ACQUIRED IN MARCH 2016

239) Acqua Alta: A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery by Donna Leon
240) Alligator Boy by Cynthia Rylant
241) And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander
242) Animals on the Trail With Lewis and Clark by Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw
243) The Anonymous Venetian by Donna Leon
244) At The Water's Edge by Sara Gruen
245) Author Day For Room 3T by Robin Pulver
246) Baby Bear by Kadir Nelson
247) A Beatrix Potter Treasury (Peter Rabbit) by Beatrix Potter
248) Boo Bunny by Kathryn Gilbrath
249) The Book of Unknown Americans by Henríquez, Cristina
250) Brown Bear's Wonderful Secret by Caroline castle
251) Cake Mix Magic by Cynthia Colby
252) Child's Treasury of Beatrix Potter by Beatrix Potter
253) The Circus in the Woods by William Littlefield
254) Come a Tide by George Ella Leon
255) Come Juneteenth by Ann Rinaldi
256) Country Soups by Editors of Publications International Ltd.
257) Crows and Cards by Joseph Helgerson
258) Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen
259) Dear Everybody by Michael Kimball
260) The Devil's Star: A Harry Hole Novel (Harry Hole Series) by Joe Nesbo
261) Drops Like Stars: A Few Thoughts on Creativity and Suffering by Rob Bell
262) Epitaph: A Novel of the O.K. Corral by Mary Dora Russell
263) Erika-San by Allan Say
264) Fantastic Mr. Fox by Dahl, Roald
265) Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear BY Lindsay Mattick
266) Foundling (Monster Blood Tattoo, Book 1) by D. M. Cornish
267) Fun Stuff Holiday Recipes by Editors of Favorite Brand Name Recipes
268) The Gettysburg Address by Sam Fink
269) Girl in a Cage by Jane Yolen
270) The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge by McCullough, David
271) Gugu's House by Catherine Stock
272) Henry's Night by D. B. Johnson
273) Heroine of The Titanic bu Landau, Elaine}}
274) Home Town by Tracy Kidder
275) House Rules by Jodi Picoultt
276) Jag by LeAnn Rhymes
277) Jane Addams: Champion of Democracy by Dennis Brindell Fadin
278) The Leopard's Wife by Paul Pickering
279) The Lifeboat by Charlotte Rogan
280) Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain by Ardizzone, Edward
281) The Littlest Uninvited One by Charles Tazewell
282) The Loud Silence of Francine Green by Karen Cushman
283) Mariette in Ecstasy by Ron Hansen
284) Men My Mother Dated and Other Mostly True Tales by Brett Leveridge
285) Monasteries: Places of Spirituality & Seclusion Around the World by Parragon books
286) Mother's Song: A Lullaby by Ellin green
287) My People by Hughes, Langston
288) Neville by Norton Justice
289) No Such Thing as the Real World: Stories About Growing Up and Getting a Life bu M.T. Anderson
290) Oh No She Didn't: The Top 100 Style Mistakes Women Make and How to Avoid Them by Clinton Kelly
291) Oink, Oink Benny by Lindgren, Barbro
292) Pemba's Song: A Ghost Story by Marilyn Nelson
293) Plainsong by Ken Haruf
294) A Portrait of Pia by Russo, Marisabina
295) Portraits of African American Heroes by Tanya Bolden
296) The Prince of Frogtown by Rick Bragg
297) The Red Thread by Grace Lin
298) Rembrandt by Watts, Greg
299) Runaway by Alice Munro
300) The Sleeper and the Spindle by Neil Gamain
301) Snow Angels by Stewart O'Nan
302) Snowie Rolie by William Joyce
303) The Sun's Daughter by Pat Sherman
304) The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova
305) The Tale of Benjamin Bunny by Beatrix Potter
306) The Trouble with May Amelia by Jennifer Holmann
307) A Tugging String: A Novel About Growing Up During the Civil Rights Era by David Greenberg
308) Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
309) The Vanishing Point by Louise Hawes
310) Waiting for Sunrise by William Boyd
311) Wish You Were Here by Stewart O'Nan
312) The Woman I Was Born to Be: My Story by Susan Boyle
313) A Wreath for Emmett Till by Marilyn Nelson
314) You Are My Wonders by Love, Maryann Cusimano

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF APRIL 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN APRIL, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN APRIL OF 2016

58) Hansel Gretel by Will Moses

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN APRIL OF 2016

28) A Wreath for Emmett Till by Marilyn Nelson
29) Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal by Jeanette Winterson
30) Dreamland by Sam Quinones
31) We Were the Kennedy's by Monica Wood
32) Getting Away With Murder by Chris Crowe
33) The End of Law: A Novel of Hitler's Germany by therese Down
34) Living Well With Chronic Illnes by Johanna Charnas
35) Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
36) Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement by Devery S. Anderson

Favorite Non-Illustrated Book of April 2016:


BOOKS ACQUIRED IN APRIL OF 2016

315) The Amazing Hamweenie by Patricia Bowman
316) Beach Lane by Melissa de La Cruz
317) Bear: Spirit of the Wild by Paul Nicklen
318) The Big Burn: Teddy Roosevelt and the Fire that Saved America by Timothy Egan
319) The Boy Who Lost His Face by Louis Schlar
320) Burn for Burn by Jenny Han
321) Cage of Stars by Jacqueline Mitchard
322) Catkin by Antonia Barber
323) City of Orphans by Avi
324) Clair de Lune by Jetta Carlton
325) The Classic Slave Narratives by Henry Louis Gates
326) Creation and Fall Temptation: Two Biblical Studies by Bonhoeffer, Dietrich
327) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
328) A Dark History : The Roman Emperors: From Julius Caesar to the Fall of Rome by Michael Kerrigan
329) Detroit: An American Autopsy by Charlie LeDuff
330) Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood by Alexandra Fuller
331) Douglass: Autobiographies by Frederick Douglass
332) Feathertop by Robert San Souci
332) Fig by Sarah Elizabeth Schantz
334) The Fig Eater by Jodi Shields
335) Forever by Judy Blume
336) Free Fall by David Weisner
337) Gilt by Katherine Longshore
338) The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
339) Guitar Boy by M.C. Auch
340) I Have a Dream: Writings and Speeches That Changed the World by Martin Luther King, Jr.
341) Home Place by Crescent Dragonwagon
342) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
343) The Idea of Human Rights: Four Inquiries by Michael J. Perry
344) The Illustrated History of World War I by Andy Weist
345) In Hovering Flight by Joyce Hennefeld
346) The Inquisitor by Mark Allen Smith
347) The Journey Home by Carol Raikes
348) Knocking on Heaven's Door: The Path to a Better Way of Death by Katy Butler
349) Land of the Green Plums by Herta Muller
350) The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
351) Leo The Late Bloomer by Robert Kraus
352) Letting Ana Go by Anonymous
353) LIFE the World's Great Civilizations: The Rise and Fall of Nations, from the Ancients to Today by Editors of Life
354) The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of the Legendary Catholic Social Activist by Dorothy Day
355) A Long Way From Home by Elizabeth Baguley
356) Love Saves The Day by Gwen Cooper
357) Melisande by E. Nesbit
358) Mother's Boys by Margaret Forster
359) Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
360) Out of My Mind by Sharon Darper
361) My Paris Wife by Paula McLain
362) Pre-Raphaelites by Timothy Hilton
363) Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepherd
364) The Pure in Heart by Susan Hill
365) The Red Scarf by Kate Furnivall
366) Rembrandt by Gregg Watts
367) Rip Van Winkle by Washington Irving
368) Rush Revere and the Brave Pilgrims: Time-Travel Adventures with Exceptional Americans by Rush Limbaugh
369) Saint George and the Dragon by Margaret Gerge
370) The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlain
371) Shotgun Lovesongs by Nicholas butler
372) Silver Tales Lion in the Long Grass by Ruth Brown
373) Spinster Goose: Twisted Rhymes for Naughty Children by Lisa Wheeler
374) The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Other Beatrix Potter Favorites by Beatrix Potterr
375) The Three Questions Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy by Jon Muth
376) Tulip Fever by Deborah Mogach
377) Vogue Weddings: Brides, Dresses, Designers by Hamish Bowles
378) Warriors #1: Into the Wild by Erin Hunter
379) West with the Night by Beryl Markham
380) When I Was Young in the Mountaings by Cynthia Rylant
381) White Noise by Don DeLillo
382) Why We Can't Wait by Martin Luther King, Jr.

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF MAY 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN MAY, 2016

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN MAY OF 2016

37) Death Be Not Proud by John Gunter
38) Orbiting Jupiter by Gary Schmidt
39) The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
40) Alice I have Been by Melanie Benjamin
41) Twain's End by Lynn Cullen

FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN MAY


BOOKS ACQUIRED IN MAY OF 2016

383) 172 Hours on the Moon by John Harstad
384) American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird
385) A Banquet of Consequences: A Lynley Novel by Elizabeth George
386) Before We Were Fre by Julia Alverez
387) Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
388) The Boat: Stories by Nam Le
389) Bulfinch Illustrated Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch
390) Butterfly House by Eve Bunting
391) Butterfly House by Latifah Salom
392) Cloen by Quentin Blake
393) Cracker!: The Best Dog in Vietnam by Cynthia Kadohata
394) Death Be Not Proud by John Gunther
395) Elvis and Me by Presley, Priscilla Beaulieu
396) English Passengers: A Novel by Matthew Kneale
397) Events That Changed the World (Focus on) by Matthew Heatley
398) The Field Mouse and the Dinosaur Named Sue by Jan Wahl
399) Fifteen Lanes by S.J. Laidlaw
400) German Boy: A Child in War by Samuel, Wolfgang W. E.
401) Giants: the Dwarfs of Auschwitz: The Extraordinary Story of the Lilliput Troupe by YehudaG Koren
402) God Bless the Child by Billie Holiday
403) Halfway to Your House by Charlotte Pomerantz
404) Hope's Boy by Andrew Bridge
405) The Hot Zone by Richard Preston
406) The House of Velvet and Glass by Katherine Howe
407) How Does the Wind Walk by Nancy White Carlstom
408) The Husband's Secret by Moriarty, Liane
409) An Illustrated World History: Revolution and Empire
410) Jefferson's Sons: A Founding Father’s Secret Children by Kimberly braubakerr Bradley
411) The Lion And The Unicorn by Shirley Hughes
412 The Measure of Darkness by Liam Durcan
413) My Accidental Jihad by Kristen Bremer
414) The Nazi Officer's Wife: How One Jewish Woman Survived the Holocaust BY Susan Dworkin
415) No Moon by Irene Watts
416) Old Age: A Beginner's Guide by Michael Kinsley
417) Pardonable Lies: A Maisie Dobbs Novel (Maisie Dobbs Novels) by Jacqueline Winspear
418) The Patriarch: The Remarkable Life and Turbulent Times of Joseph P. Kennedy by David Nasaw
419) People Who Changed the World (Focus on)
420) Rococo by Adrianne Trigani
421) The Romanov Sisters: The Lost Lives of the Daughters of Nicholas and Alexandra by Helen Rappaport
422) The Roving Tree by Augustave, Elsie
423) The Secret Magdalene by Ki Longfellow
424) Small Beginnings by Martha Woodroof
425) This Is How You Fall by Keith Dixon
426) Tudor: Passion. Manipulation. Murder. The Story of England's Most Notorious Royal Family by Leanda Di Lisle
427) When Mama Comes Home Tonight by Eileen Spinelli
428) The Wolves in the Walls by Neil Gaim

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF JUNE 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JUNE, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JUNE

59) Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert
60) Shooting at the Stars The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
61) How To Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham
62) The Amazing Hamweenie by Patty Bowman

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JUNE OF 2016

42) Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade
43) Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
44) January First by Michael Schofield
45) I Captured the Castle by Dodie Smith
46) Giants The Dwarfs of Auschwitz by Yehuda Koren and Eliat Negev
47) Blue Willow by Doris GatesFAVORITE ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF JUNE


Shooting at the Stars The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF JUNE

January First by Michael Schofield

==================================================================

BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JUNE OF 2016

429) 12 Stories of Christmas BY Robert Morgan
430) Aesop's Fables (Puffin Classics) by Aesop
431) Angels in Art Gift Book & Day Book by Lorenz, Joanna
432) Bear's Picture by Danile Pinkwater
433) Beowulf by James Rumford
434) Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist by Erik Kincard
435) CliffsComplete Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
436) Cold Blooded by Lisa Jackson
437) Flower Fairies Secret World by Ceceiy Mary Baker
438) Flyaway: Lift the flaps to set the bird free by Lesley Barnes
439) Ghost Train to Freedom by Faith Reese Martin
440) Go to Sleep, Little Farm by Mary Lyn Ray
441) The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
442) The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
443) Impressionist Women by Edward Lucie Smith
444) January First: A Child's Descent into Madness and Her Father's Struggle to Save Her by Michael Schoefield
445) John Denver's For Baby by John Denver
446) Killing Miss Kitty and Other Sins by Marion Dante Bauer
447) The Last Pilot by Benjamin Johncock
448) Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (Kincaid Classics) by Lewis Carroll
449) Loved: Stories of Forgiveness by Rebecca St. James
450) Mercy by Jodi Picoult
451) Mermaids by Steve Dobell
452) The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
453) Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
454) The Silver Donkey by Sonya Hartnett
455) Sunshine and Snowballs by Margaret Wise Brown
456) Tales of Uncle Remus (Puffin Modern Classics): The Adventures of Brer Rabbit by Julius Lester
457) Two Nests by Laurence Anholt
458) The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth & Allison, Catherine Grahame
459) A Wolf's Tale by Montanari, Eva

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF JUNE 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JUNE, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JUNE

59) Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert
60) Shooting at the Stars The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
61) How To Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham
62) The Amazing Hamweenie by Patty Bowman

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JUNE OF 2016

42) Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade
43) Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
44) January First by Michael Schofield
45) I Captured the Castle by Dodie Smith
46) Giants The Dwarfs of Auschwitz by Yehuda Koren and Eliat Negev
47) Blue Willow by Doris GatesFAVORITE ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF JUNE


Shooting at the Stars The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF JUNE

January First by Michael Schofield

==================================================================

BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JUNE OF 2016

429) 12 Stories of Christmas BY Robert Morgan
430) Aesop's Fables (Puffin Classics) by Aesop
431) Angels in Art Gift Book & Day Book by Lorenz, Joanna
432) Bear's Picture by Danile Pinkwater
433) Beowulf by James Rumford
434) Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist by Erik Kincard
435) CliffsComplete Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
436) Cold Blooded by Lisa Jackson
437) Flower Fairies Secret World by Ceceiy Mary Baker
438) Flyaway: Lift the flaps to set the bird free by Lesley Barnes
439) Ghost Train to Freedom by Faith Reese Martin
440) Go to Sleep, Little Farm by Mary Lyn Ray
441) The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
442) The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
443) Impressionist Women by Edward Lucie Smith
444) January First: A Child's Descent into Madness and Her Father's Struggle to Save Her by Michael Schoefield
445) John Denver's For Baby by John Denver
446) Killing Miss Kitty and Other Sins by Marion Dante Bauer
447) The Last Pilot by Benjamin Johncock
448) Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (Kincaid Classics) by Lewis Carroll
449) Loved: Stories of Forgiveness by Rebecca St. James
450) Mercy by Jodi Picoult
451) Mermaids by Steve Dobell
452) The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
453) Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
454) The Silver Donkey by Sonya Hartnett
455) Sunshine and Snowballs by Margaret Wise Brown
456) Tales of Uncle Remus (Puffin Modern Classics): The Adventures of Brer Rabbit by Julius Lester
457) Two Nests by Laurence Anholt
458) The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth & Allison, Catherine Grahame
459) A Wolf's Tale by Montanari, Eva

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF JULY 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JULY 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JULY OF 2016

63) White Flour by David LaMotte with illustrations of Jenn Hales
64) For Baby, For Bobbie Adapted and Illustrated by Janeen Mason
65) Come a Tide by George Ella Lyon with illustratiopns of Stephen Gammell
66) Fables by Arnold Lobel
67) The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
68) The Moon's Almost Here by Patricia MacLachlan, Tomie DePaola (Illustrator)
69) Nobody Likes a Goblin by Ben Hatke
70) The Whalloping Window Blind by Jim LaMarche
71) You Are My Wonders by Maryann Cusimano Love with illustrations of Satomi Ichikawa
72) Little Tim and the Brave Sea Captain by Edward Ardizzone
73) Cricket Song by Anne Hunter
74) Spuds by Karen Hesse
75) Tell Me a Dragon by Jackir Morris
76 Mama Across the Sea by Alex Godard

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN JULY OF 2016

50) The Last Leaves Falling by Sarah Benwell
51) Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley
52) After the Storm by Linda Catillo
53) Marika by Andrea Cheng
54) Miss Jane by Brad Watson
55) Weathering by Lucy Wood
56) Every Living Thing by Cynthia Rylant
57) Gilded Years by Karin Tanabe
58) Close to Shore a true Story of Terror in an Age of Innocence by Michael Capuzzo
59) Terrible Typhoid Mary by Susan Campbell Barrtoletti

FAVORITE ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF JULY 2016

White Flour by David LaMottee with illusttrations to Jenn Hales
FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF JULY 2016

Miss Jane by Brad Watson

BOOKS ACQUIRED IN JULY OF 2016

460) 365 Reasons for Smiling by White Star
461) The Amateur Marriage by Anne Tyler
462) And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson
463) The Apple and the Arrow by Conrad Buff
464) The Apple Orchard by Susan Wiggs
465) At the Edge of the Orchard by Tracy Chevaliar
466) Back of Beyond by (Cody Hoyt
467) The Blood of Strangers: Stories from Emergency Medicine by Frank Huyler
468) The Boy from Baby House 10 Publisher: St. Martin's Press by Alan Philips
469) Celestial Navigation by Anne Tyler
470) Children's Books and Their Creators by Anita Siley
471) City of Women by David Gillham
472) Desperate Measures by Laura Summers
473) Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant by Anne Tyler
474) Edmund and the White Witch by C.S. Lewis
475) Faith by Jennifer Haigh
476) Forged by Fire by Sharon Draper
477) The Girls of August by Anne River Siddon
478) Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine
479) The Hours Count by Jillian Cantor
480) The Husband's Secret by Moriarty, Liane
481) In My Mother's House by Ann Nolan Clark\
482) Iodine by Haven Kimmel
483) Ironman by Crutcher, Chris
484) Jezebel's Spooky Spot by Alice Ross
484) Moses When Harriet Tubman Led Her People To Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford
485) The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman
486) Mrs. Grant and Madame Jule by Chiaverini, Jennifer
487) Needless Suffering How Society Fails Those With Chronic Pain
488) The Paris Winter by Imogen Robertson
489) The Paying Guests by Sarah Walters
490) Peony in Love by Lisa See
491) The Quality of Mercy: Cambodia, Holocaust and Modern Conscience by William Shawcross
492) The Seeing Stick by Jane Yolen
493) A Spool of Blue Thread by Alice Hoffman
494) Stripped by Brian Freeman
495) Sweet Salt Air by Barbara Delinsky
496) Three Questions by Jon Muth
497) Time of Wonder by Robert McCloskey
498) To Be a Slave by Julius Lester
499) What Came Before He Shot Her by Elizabeth George
500) Where We Belong by Emily Giffin
==================================================

ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN AUGUST OF 2016, AS WELL AS THOSE ACQUIRED IN AUGUST

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS

60) The Girl On the Train by Paula Hawkins
61) This Is Where It Ends by Marieke Nijkamp
62) When Dad Killed Mom by Julius Lester
63) Summerlost by Ally Condie
64) Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS

77) Once a Mouse illustrated and written by Marcia Brown
78) Uncle Jed's Barbershop by Margaree King Mitchell
79) Yakov and the Seven Thieves by Madonna
80) Cinder-Eyed Cats by Eric Rohmann
81) Alice the Fairy
82) Bear's Picture by Daniel Pinkwater
83) Sunshine and Snowballs by Margaret Wise Brown
84) Gulliver's Adventures in Lilliput by Jonathan Swift retold by Ann Keay Beneduce with illustrations of Gennady Spirin
85) Philipok by Leo Tolstoy retold by Ann Keay Bemeduce with illustrations of Gennady Spirin
86) The Most Amazing Creature in the Sea by Brenda Z. Guiberson with illustrations of Gennady Spirin
87) Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans
88) One Monday Morning by Uri Shulevitz
89) Jack and the Beanstalk retold by Ann Keay Beneduce illustrated by Gennady Spirin
90) A Girl and Her Gator by Sean Bryan

FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF AUGUST 2016

Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo
FAVORITE ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF AUGUST 2016

Philipok by Leo Tolstoy retold by Ann Keay Bemeduce with illustrations of Gennady Spirin

BOOKS ACQUIRED AUGUST 2016

501) 'Twas the Night Before Christmas Sundblom by Clement C. Moore
502) 365 Dalai Lama Daily Advice From The Heart by The Dalai Lama
503) Alice the Fairy by David Shannon
504) The Bat: The First Inspector Harry Hole Novel by Jo Nesbp -- Allentown Library book sale $1.00
505) Bee Season by Myla Goldberg -- Allentown Library book sale $1.00
506) Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Kathereine Boo
507) Bettyville by George Hodgman
508) The Body of David Hayes by Ridley Pearson
509) The Book of Aron by Jim Shepard
510) The Caller by Karin Fossum
511) The Care and Handling of Roses with Throns by Margaret Dilloway == Given to me by Diane
512) Cassandra's Angel by Gina Otto
513) Church of Marvels by Leslie Parry
514) The Costume Trunk Book by Bob Fuller
515) Deliver Her by Patricia Donovan
516) The Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron
517) Emily Windsnap and the Castle in the Mist by Liz Kessler
518) Emily Windsnap and the Moster from the Deep by Liz Kessler
519) The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe == Given to me by Diane
520) Everest by Gordon Korman -- Allentown Library book sale .25
521) Falls The Shadow by Stephanie Gather
522) The Farm by Tom Rob Smith
523) The Farming of Bones by Edwidge Danticat
524) The Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner
525) Gap of Time by Jeanette Winterson
526) God Got a Dog by Cynthia Rylant
527) House Beautiful 1000 Sensational Makeovers: Great Ideas to Create Your Ideal Home (House Beautiful Series
528) If I Loved You I Would Tell You by Robin Black
529) The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book II: The Hidden Gallery by Maryrose Wood
530) LIFE Jesus: Who Do You Say That I Am? by Editors of Life
531) The Light in the Ruins by Chris Bohjalian ==Allentown Library book sale $1.00
532) Make Someone Happy by Elizabeth Berg == Given to me by Diane
533) Mice Twice by Joseph Low
534) Midnight Magic by Avi
535) The Most Amazing Creature in the Sea by Brenda Z. Guiberson illustrated by Gennady Spirin
536) My Brother's Shadow by Tom Avery
537) My Father, In Snow by E.Sheila JOhnson == Given to me by Diane
538) The Mystery of Drear House by Virginia Hamilton
539) Mystic River by Dennis LeHane
540) Nine Man Tree by Robert Newton Peck --Allentown Library book sale $1.00
541) No, David by David Shannon
542) The Noticer Returns by Andy Andrews == Allentown Library book sale $1.00
543) Ode to Childhood Poetry to Celebrate The Child
544) The Other Me by Saskia Sargenson
545) Owen & Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship by Isabella Hatkoff
546) Owen by Kevin Hankes
547) A Passage To India by E.M. Forester
548) The People Could Fly: American Black Folktales by Virginia Hamilton
549) Poems and Prayers for the Very Young
550) Rise and Shine by Anna Quindlen == Allentown Library book sale $1.00
551) Sassafras by Audrey Penn
552) Sea Change by Jeremy Penn
553) Silenced by Kristin Olfsson
554) Sister by Rosamud Lupton
555) Sublime Elegance: The Timeless Charm of Evening Gowns by Maria Maccan
556) Sukey and the Mermaid by Robert D. san Souci illustrated by Brian Pinkney
557) The Supremes at Earl's All You Can Eat by Edward Kelsey Moore ==Barnes & Noble sale - $1.80
558) Sweet Sunday by John Lawton ==Allentown Library book sale $1.00
559) The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Anderseon illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
560) The Tale of the Mandarin Ducks by Katherine Paterson with illustrations of Leo & Diane Dillon
561) Talk, Talk by T.C. Boyle -- Allentown Library book sale $1.00
562) Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos BY R. L. Lafevers
563) Thirteen Days: A Memoir of the Cuban Missile Crisis by Robert Kennedy
564) Three Strong Women by Marie Ndiaye --Allentown Library book sale $1.00
565) Twenty-Six by Leo McKay
566) The Underneath by Kathi Appelt
567) We Three Kings by Gennady Spirin
568) What-the-Dickens: The Story of a Rogue Tooth Fairy by Gregory McGuire
569) Williamsburg Reproductions, Interior Designs for Todays Living by Craft House
570) The Yonahlossee Riding Camp For Girls by Anton Disclafani -- Allentown Library book sale $1.00
571) You Came Back by Christopher Coake --Allentown Library book sale $1.00
572) Uglies by Scott Westerfeld Barnes Noble sale -- $1.80
573) You Came Back by Christpoher Coake

HERE IS A LIST OF BOOKS, BOTH ILLUSTRATED AND NON ILLUSTRATED READ IN THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER, 2016, AND ALSO A LIST OF BOOKS ACQUIRED IN SEPTEMBER, 2016

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016

91. Goldilocks and the Three Bears adapted and illustrated by Gennady Spirin
92. Thumbelina retold by Brian Anderson and illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
93. East O' the Sun and West O' the Moon by P.T. Lynch
94. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens illustrated by Roberto Innocenti
95. Train to Somewhere by Eve Bunting
96. Mississippi Morning by Ruth Vaner Zee and illustrated by Floyd Cooper

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016

65. Make Someone Happy by Elizabeth Berg
66. We Are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg
67. A Year of Pleasures by Elizabeth Berg
68. Talk Before Sleep by Elizabeth Berg
69. The Boy at the Top of the Mountain by John Boyne
70. When Friendship Followed Me Home by Paul Griffin
71. The Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko by Scott Stambach

FAVORITE NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016


The Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko by Scott Stambach

FAVORITE ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016


East O' the Sun and West O' the Moon by P.T. Lynch

BOOKS PURCHASED SEPTEMBER 2016

574) The Giant of Seville by Dan Andreasen
575) The Dollhouse Murders by Betty Ren Wright
576) The Good Husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith
577) Tea Time For The Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith
578) Tears of the Giraffe by Alexander McCall Smith
579) Mrs. Sinclair's Suitcase by Louise Walters
580) Range of Motion by Elizabeth Berg
581) The Notorious Izzy Fink by Don Brown
582) Jack Plank Tells Tales by Natalie Babbitt
583) Shooting Kabul by N.H. Senzai
584) Little fur The Legend Begins by Isobelle Carmody
585) The Lightning Queen by Laura Resau
586) Dancing Through Fire by Kathryn Lasky
587) A Sparrow in Terezin by Kristy Cambron
588) The Book of General Ignorance by John Lloyd
589) Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
590) Favorite Paintings From The Metropolitan Museum of Art
591) Lies of the Heart by Michelle Boyajian
592) Book of Nursery and Mother Goose Rhymes by Marguerite de Angeli's
593) Noah's Ark by Peter Spier
594) Leon and Bob by Simon James
595 Mr. George Baker by Amy Hest illustrations of Jon J. Muth
596) Swamp Angel by Paul O. Zelinsky
597) The Helo, Goodbye Window by Norton Juster illustrations of Chris Raschka
598) A Treasury of Children's Literature by Armand Eisen

>u>BOOKS ACQUIRED IN OCTOBER 2016
599) Manhattan Transfer by John Dos Passos
600) So Many Books, So Little Time A Year of Passionate Reading by Sara Nelson
601) Lamb in Love by Carrie Brown
602) Our Lady of the Lost and Found by Diane Schoemperlen
603) The Accomplice by Elizabeth Ironside
604) The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
605) Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
606) Chef by Jaspreet Singh
607) Freedom Train by Dorothy Sterling
608) The Moon of the Wild Pigs by Jean Craighead George Children's Illustrated book
609) The Radleys by Matt Haig
610) Necropolis London and Its Dead by Catharine Arnold

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN OCTOBER 2016

72. Journey to Chernobyl: Encounters in a Radioactive Zone by Glenn Alan Cheney
73. Elizabeth Taylor A Private Life for Public Consumption by Ellis Cashmore
74. Voices From Chernobyl The Oral History of a Nuclear Disaster by Svetlana Alexievich
75. My Father, In Snow by E. Sheila Johnson
76. The Giant's House a Romance by Elizabeth McCracken
77. Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN OCTOBER 2016

97. Kashtanka by Anton Chekhov
98. Owen by Kevin Hankes
99. Sassafras by Audrey Penn
100. Neville by Norton Juster with illustrations of G. Brian Karas

NON ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN NOVEMBER 2016

78. 83 Minutes The Doctor, The Damage, and the Shocking Death of Michael Jackson by Matt Richards
79. Faithful by Alice Hoffman
80. Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley
81. The Long Shadow of Chernobyl by Gerd Ludwig
82. Michael Jackson: The Magic, The Madness, The Whole Story, 1958-2009 by J. Randy Taraborrelli
83. Something Like Hope by Shawn Goodman
84. The Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse
85. The Poet's Dog by Patricia McLachlin

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN NOVEMBER 2016

101. The Reindeer Wish by Lori Evert illustrated by Per Breig Breiehagen
102 What Do You Do With a Problem by Kobi Yamada with illustrations by Max Besom
The talented illustrator and writer who also paired together to publish What do you do with a box
103 Jumanji by the very talented illustrator and story teller Chris Van Allsburg
104. Thunder Boy Jr. by Sherman Alexie
105. The Nutcracker based on the 1954 George Balanchine production for the New York City Ballet , Valeria Docampo (Illustrator)
106. The Darkest Dark by Chris Hanfield, illustrated by The Fan Brothers and Kat Fillion
107. A Child of Books by Oliver Jeffers

----------------------------------------------------------------
BEST ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN NOVEMBER 2016

The Reindeer Wish by Lori Evert illustrated by Per Breig Breiehagen

BEST NON ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN NOVEMBER 2016


Faithful by Alice Hoffman
Excellent!!! Five stars!

------------------------------------------

BOOKS READ IN DECEMBER 2016

86.

Is it safe, Linda? Happy new thread. What a lot of good reading you've done so far this year.

Hi Beth. Harmonic convergence is in the air. A few minutes ago I sent a card to a long-time, wonderful friend who lives in Minnesota. She lives in Wayzata. Where do you live? And, do you like living there?

Happy new thread, Whisper1! I look forward to more picture books. Are you still doing that?

Happy New Thread, Linda! And congrats on hitting the Mighty 75!!

It looks like we had similar feelings about The Giant's House. I was expecting much more out of it. I still want to read her last story collection.

I recently finished Another Brooklyn. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend it. Just your cuppa.

Happy new thread, Linda dear. Slightly missing the autumnal hues in season-less Malaysia.

Happy New thread, Linda! Lovely topper! Oh that insufferable Mark, flogging Another Brooklyn on your thread too. I wonder if he is paid on commission? :)

>13 brodiew2: Hi Brodie. I read four illustrated books lately, but I haven't had time to review them. Hopefully tomorrow they will be highlighted. Thanks for asking!

>14 msf59: Mark, Thanks for the recommendation. Jacqueline Woodson remains one of my favorite authors. I saw that Another Brooklyn was a National Book Award winner. I'll see if my local library has this one. Actually, I hope they do so that I can take a break during lunch tomorrow and pick it up. Regarding The Giant's House, I liked it a lot. I simply did not like the ending.

>15 PaulCranswick: Paul, How nice to see you here. Season less Malaysia...oh, drat! I would miss the seasons of Pennsylvania. Our street in particular has many lovely trees that find their color in the same time frame. It is such a joy to drive down the street smiling.

>16 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb., yeah, right about Mark...If he is paid commission, then I think I want a part of the loot. He and I are very similar in our reading habits. Often, I add a book to see his name on the list of those who also added it. I like to guy, so I'll let him keep his stash of money.

Another Brooklyn is a very quick read too. Only 3 hours or so on audio. I will definitely have to revisit it, in print, to enjoy that lyrical prose.

>16 vancouverdeb: I am just waiting for those checks to roll in, Deb. Nothing so far but I am hoping...Grins.

(I knew Linda was a big fan of Brown Girl Dreaming)

Hi Linda - I live about 75 minutes from Wayzata, in Rochester. It is close to family, and there are many advantages to living in a small city. And, of course, we have really good health care here. :)

Happy new thread! Enjoy the fall colors!

>12 Whisper1: I live in Mound, MN which is about 10 - 15 minutes from Wayzata.

Happy New Thread Linda, and Happy Week! Lovely thread topper - both the pics and the words. :)

Congrats on your shiny new thread, Linda.

Happy new thread, Linda!

Happy new Thread, Linda :0) I'm just finishing up Miss Jane. I can see why it was your favorite back in July. Really well told story!

Congrats on your new thread, Linda! Beautiful autumn topper.

Nice to see The War that Saved My Life among your favorites. It probably was your enthusiasm that got me to read it, and I loved it.

Hi Linda, happy new thread my dear. Hope you are well and having a good day, sending love and hugs.

Happy, happy new thread!

Happy (sort of) new thread Linda! That topper photo is stunning!

Noticed Mark's recommendation of the audio of Another Brooklyn so just put myself on the library waitlist for the audio.. I adored the audio of Brown Girl Dreaming.

Oh, my friend - you are supposed to be through with pain. What's happening? I think we need to talk.

Call me sometime when you can.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #97


Kashtanka by Anton Chekhov with illustrations of Genedy Spirin

A beloved dog of a wood carver becomes lost and separated from his master leaving those who love him in grief. In the meantime, Kashanka is taken in by a man who teaches him tricks for the circus. One day, while performing, a little boy who is a friend of the wood carver recognizes Kashtanka and reunites him with his master.

It is the illustrations that carry the book.

Linda--Congrats on the new thread and on having passed #75!! And Hi! to all the Minnesotans!! I still have family there and miss it.

Such gorgeous illustrations, Linda! Thanks for sharing them with us.

Happy new thread, Linda! I love the fall thread topper.

My part of Pennsylvania is getting quite colorful now, though our leaves are turning later than usual.

Hi Linda! Happy new thread!

Happy new thread, Linda, I love autumn & the beautiful colored trees like in your thread topper.
>31 Whisper1: Lovely illustrations of a cute little dog :-)

Autumnal hues and a bracing cool breeze...............homesick suddenly.

Have a lovely weekend, Linda.

Happy new thread Linda and belated congratulations on reading 75 books in a year where you've had so much on your plate.

BOOK NUMBER 77


Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

A Chinese-American family struggle with the surprise death, perhaps suicide, of their beloved older daughter and the aftermath. This exceedingly well-written book deals with many difficult subjects.

The perception and reality of the 1970's culture not quite ready to accept inter cultural marriage, and the intense need of the Chinese father to over embrace the American way of life while watching those around him deride and judge, is but one of the items tackled in Everything I Never Told You.

Told from varying characters, we learn that all hope for what her parents wanted to achieve is placed squarely on Lydia's shoulders. She is the eldest child who science book by book, who through advanced physics classes, tough biology and math, is molded to become to female doctor her mother always wanted to be.

Determined to succeed as a female doctor, Marilyn excelled in the courses that years later her daughter is failing. On the right path, until she met her American Literature professor, James, Marilyn married and became pregnant. Later, supremely disappointed that she is now living the life of her mother with Betty Crocker cook books, a family and house, Marilyn ran away for a few months once again seeking a college degree. Though, she returned when she learned she was pregnant with the third child, her abandonment and return forever shaped the family as they do everything to keep her.

All energy and love is given to Lydia, while the other two children watch and hope that someday they too will be a favored child. Thus, when Lydia is missing, and found dead at the bottom on the town lake, the fragile family now falls completely apart.

There never was time or commitment to the other children, but now it becomes apparent as through loneliness and grief, they long for acceptance and understanding.

Multifaceted and layered, the author does an incredible job of character study, and of handling the torn fabric that very much needs to be sewed together again.

Highly recommended.

Four Stars!

Fabulous review of Everything I Never Told You, Linda! Thumbed. I really loved it when I read it some time ago - I think shortly after it came out.

I'm way behind on threads. Congrats on passing 75.

Congrats on reaching 75 and on your new thread, Linda. I now know who to thank (blame) for The War that Saved my Life being part of a recent book purchase because I saw its cover in your opening posts.

Happy new thread and Congrats on passing 75!

Happy new thread. And yay for 75! I'm still hoping to get there this year.

>40 vancouverdeb: Hi Deb. It is good to have another fan of this book. It was sitting on my shelf for awhile, and by chance, I decided to read it. I'm glad I did.
>41 thornton37814: Hi Lori, I am also behind on the threads. After coming home from work, I am exhausted and unfortunately, don't have the energy that I need to visit as often as I would like to.
>42 Familyhistorian: Meg, The War That Saved My Life is one of my favorite reads of 2016.
>43 BBGirl55: Byrony...How good to see you here.
>44 The_Hibernator: Hi Rachel. I hope all is well with you.

Thanks to all for visiting!

>45 Whisper1: How is work itself going?

>46 Morphidae: I am having a difficult time this go round. My energy is sorely challenged. I believe that seven surgeries (some wherein there were multiple procedures) have taken a toll. I'm so weary of doctors, surgeons and those who try to manage the pain. My work as publications adviser of the student newspaper and yearbook is deadline driven. I'm very weary of the stress of it all when energy is compromised. But, I am not complaining. I have exceptional benefits, and I really like the people I work with.

Thanks for asking Morphy!

BOOK #78

83 Minutes The Doctor, The Damage, and the Shocking Death of Michael Jackson by Matt Richards

Found on the shelf of new acquisitions at my local library, this book called to me. Michael Jackson, the King of Pop music, was at his peak when my eldest daughter (now 44) was in middle school. Her father even hired a Michael Jackson impersonator for her birthday party. Later, he spent hundreds of dollars for concert tickets. They were seated way up high away from the stage, but my daughter could always say that she saw Michael Jackson.

And, there was a lot to see. His incredible range and depth of emotion shown when singing, and then his moon walk dancing, plus the jeweled glove and sparkling costumes made him a very special artist in deed. No one can rightfully state that he was not talented. And, sadly, few can say that he was not troubled.

While focusing on the sad, sad events that were in place leading to his death, this book also notes the steep downward spiral of Jackson's life and addiction to drugs after the pedophile allegations brought a shining light on his inability to judge what was and wasn't appropriate, and what the public perceptions would and would not tolerate even in the glittering life of a super star.

Tragically, he died at the age of 50 from an overdose of various drugs, one of which should never have been allowed out of the setting of a hospital operating room. Diprivan/(propofol) a milky narcotic liquid is used intravenously under strict guidelines.

When a series of circumstances aligned in a row, Jackson's life was set in place to end. Broke, and in debt in the millions of dollars, though he hadn't performed in a serious concert engagement in twelve years, AEG Live enticed Jackson to perform a series of concerts in London, England. Michael was unaware that he signed for 50 concerts. And, the magic 50 concerts for a 50 year old addict who was seriously underweight and psychologically impaired never occurred.

In reality, too compromised, Jackson was not even able to show up during many of the scheduled rehearsals. The night/late evening of his death, he was in top form, dancing and singing like days of yore. In a scary alignment, after performing his last dance, Jackson noted "This is the final curtain call!"

Acutely aware that Jackson was in trouble, the producer met with AEG Live and told them of the mental and physical compromised condition, pleading that at the least they should obtain a prominent psychiatrist for him.

Millions of dollars were already spent by the production company, and the Jackson family would later sue AEG Live stating their placement of Dr. Conrad Murray to watch over Jackson's health, and their pressure on both Jackson and Murray to get the show on the road, was a direct cause of Jackson's death.

On the fatal night of over medication, Jackson, as usual, had a difficult time sleeping. Pleading with Murray to give him multiple medications, he finally encouraged the use of Propofal. When 25 mg of the substance were injected, there was a grave interaction of this chemical added to all the previous ones.

Murray's cell phone proved that he had left the Jackson bedroom for an inordinate amount of time. When Murray returned, Jackson was not breathing. In a state of panic an ambulance was not called in a timely manner. To late, Jackson was already dead.

It would be easy to judge Michael Jackson as a deviate pervert, who also was a drug addict. But the fact is that he settled out of court the first time a parent made an accusation, setting in line a precedent for others to follow. He was found innocent when taken to court. Still, the dominoes were in place for the fact that on June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson died of acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication at his home on North Carolwood Drive in the Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2011 and was given a four year prison sentence, of which he only was in jail for two years. The Jackson family was not successful in their law suit against AEG Live and it was ruled they were not guilty of pushing Jackson to the limit.

Personally, I remember the joy my daughter had as a pre teen learning all the words to his songs. As the last page was turned on this book/this story, I am left with supreme sadness.

I'm not quite sure how to ask this. Hmm. Is the book tabloid-ish? Or is it more matter-of-fact and serious?

>48 Whisper1: No, not at all Morphy. If anything, it is so well written, that I came away with a sense of sadness at the fact that so many doctors enabled Jackson's addiction. And, the sadness remains that no one could help Jackson in his torment.

>50 Whisper1: Okay, I'll add it to Mount TBR.

Hugs to you, Linda!

Hi Linda!! Loving your two reviews. I am so sad Michael Jackson is gone. Glad you are surviving work. Dang those deadlines!!! : )

Hi Linda! Finally getting a little bit caught up around here. I am glad to hear that you are mostly up to work and regular life. It's going to take a while, I expect, for you feel like you have the energy you need. It really hasn't been all that long since your surgery. I hope you are being easy on yourself. :)
I am going to pass on the Michael Jackson story, but your review was great. I am glad that it isn't sensationalized, but trying to tell the story. I have a lot of fun memories from middle school and high school involving his music. ((hugs))

Hi, Linda. Agreed on The War That Saved My Life being a favorite read of the year. Pax was way up there for me, too.

Hi Linda! Hasn't it been an amazing autumn?! Hope it lasts till Christmas, at which time it may snow for 24 hours and begone.
Nice review of 83 Minutes and What I Never Told You.

Hi Linda! Hope you are doing well!

Hi Linda, just doing the rounds as I have been a bit neglectful of late. I hope you are well my dear and I love reading your book reviews. Sending love and hugs my dear.

Wow, judging from the cover this is a book I'd normally never consider reading ("the doctor, the damage and the shocking !!! death") - now I'm putting it on my watch list.
I guess in those extreme cases with stars like MJ who have been in the business from early childhood on, the problem is that there's no healthy family basis. Those people don't really know "normal" and "loving" and never learned to trust the right people. There hasn't ever been anyone to fall back on who wasn't financially interested. On the contrary, family and management often seem mainly interested in keeping the cash flowing also during a bad crisis and to hide the truth from the paying public. There might be the odd one who seriously wants to help, but how likely is it they can succeed?
I wasn't a big fan of his music back in the 80s and 90s, but I must say now that those hits really passed the test of time and now I quite like hearing them. And I was very sad when he died.

I'm sending hugs and some extra energy your way!

Hi, Linda. Just dropping in with smiles and hugs, in case you need to restock. Congratulations on reaching 75 books, a real challenge for you this year. I'm glad they give you solace. I'm intrigued by Everything I Never Told You.

Morning Linda! Just saying hi to let you know I do read your thread even if I don't comment much.

Hi Linda! Great review of Everything I Never Told You! I think it's already on my wishlist, but I'll check to confirm that.

The Jackson Five were popular when I was in elementary school, and I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. He was so talented, and I'm sorry that his life was tragically cut short.

Hope you're having a good weekend Linda!

Hi Linda! Congratulations on your new thread.

Hi Linda, hope you are well my dear and having a good weekend. Sending love and hugs dear friend.

Hello to all. I've been out of touch and sorely miss everyone. Getting back in the grove of work continues to be difficult. Seven surgeries in six years (some of which included multiple operations), has taken a toll. I've been reading, but not posting.

An injection in my spine brought some relief to pain. As always, books are the balm for my soul. Here's what I've recently read. I'll post comments later:

Book #79

Faithful by Alice Hoffman
Excellent!!! Five stars!

Book #80

Lily and the Octopus
Excellent! Four Stars! It would have been five stars, except for some disjointed diversion near the end, but the talented author brought it all together in the end. Highly recommended

Book #81

The Long Shadow of Chernobyl by Gerd Ludwig
A fantastic photography, coffee table sized book of crisp, sad images of the damages of Chernobyl

Book #82

Michael Jackson: The Magic, The Madness, The Whole Story, 1958-2009 by J. Randy Taraborrelli

Book #83

Something Like Hope by Shawn Goodman
A superb YA book of neglect and redemption
Three and 1/2 stars

Book #84

The Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse
A well written Young Adult book regarding The Amsterdam resistance to Hitler!

Book #85


The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan
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ILLUSTRATED BOOKS

Book #101

The Reindeer Wish by Lori Evert illustrated by Per Breig Breiehagen

Book #102

What Do You Do With a Problem by Kobi Yamada with illustrations by Max Besom
The talented illustrator and writer who also paired together to publish What do you do with a box

Book #103

Jumanji by the very talented illustrator and story teller Chris Van Allsburg

Book #104

Thunder Boy Jr. written by Sherman Alexie, illustrated by Yuyi Morales

Book #105

The Nutcracker based on the 1954 George Balanchine production for the New York City Ballet , Valeria Docampo (Illustrator)

Book #106

The Darkest Dark by Chris Hanfield, illustrated by The Fan Brothers and Kat Fillion

Book #107

A Child of Books by Oliver Jeffers

Hello stranger. I'm glad to hear you've found some sort of relief, and that you're still surrounded by lovely book-friends.

Hi Linda! Fun to see what you have been reading. Miss seeing you here more often, but then I am one to talk! LOL. Glad you are coping with the back to work thing. Hugs. : )

Ooof, that Hoffman book is *gorgeous*!
Love the Jeffers book, too, of course.
Happy Monday, friend!

Hi Linda, you have been busy whilst away from LT my dear, sending love and hugs dear friend.

A Child of Books looks especially intriguing.

Glad to hear that the injections have brought some pain relief, and I hope that continues for you. I can only imagine that getting back to work and in the groove would be challenging and tiring. Will the Thanksgiving holiday coming up help ease some of that or no? Thinking of you and praying for you :)

Hi, Linda! I'm glad to hear that the injections are helping some with the pain.

I continue to be impressed with all your reading!

Dear Linda, I'm very happy to see you back here posting and to know that you have gotten some relief from your latest injection. Peace to you, my friend, and the happiness of a good partner, fine neighbors, and engrossing reading!

>66 Whisper1: Very sorry to hear that pain has become such a constant for you. A short dose has thrown me pretty radically out of my regular routine. I deeply hope you can find some more permanent relief.

All caught up with you, Linda. That new Hoffman book is calling to me - I love her writing, and as Amber pointed out, the cover is beautiful. Sending you healing energy and keeping you in my thoughts, dear one. Hoping that your weekend is full of happy.

Proud of you Linda that despite all those surgeries and despite it impinging so on your energy levels you are back working and continuing reading.

Have a lovely weekend, dear lady.

Our autumn leaves were late in turning colorful this year, too. It was nice to have the warm weather, but now I'm ready for some brisk days. I'm sorry your pain levels are high and energy levels are low. It makes work--and life in general--more challenging. I hope the relief you got from the injection lasts through the holidays. Happy Thanksgiving to you, Will, and Lily.

Hi Linda, Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving week!

I hope you have a great week, Linda.

Hi Linda, hope you have a lovely Thanksgiving my dear.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, my friend! Hope all's well with you!!

Happy Thanksgiving, Linda!

Dear Linda, I am thankful for my friends. I am thankful that you have been given the strength to come through trying times health wise whilst retaining your positivity and your lovely warm and generous spirit. xx

Hello?! Hope you are enjoying family, friends, food and less pain!! Hugs.

Hi Linda. Wishing you a happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving Eve to all. Sadly, I'm going through a rough patch of pain. Four dilaudid a day, plus a fentanyl patch bring some relief, but overall my spirits are unusually downward directed. I will have an injection in my neck (OUCH) December 5th.

There is ever so much for which to be thankful! I am very thankful for this group!

Love sent to all!

Dang it Linda!! Hang in there. The 5th is coming soon... Many more hugs.

Dear Linda, I'm so sorry to hear that you are in so much pain. I wish there was something I could do more than just to say that I am thinking of you and wishing you well. I hope the injection brings some relief. Sending gentle hugs and wishing you a happy Thanksgiving.

Dear Linda, so sorry to read you are back in too much pain.
I hope you get some relief after the neck injection.
Sending love, hugs & comforthing thoughts.

Hi Linda! I, too, am sorry to read that you're in so much pain. Sending hugs.

Gentle hugs and well wishes.

Hi Linda, so sorry to read that you are in so much pain my dear and hope the neck injection gives you some relief. Hope the pain does not stop you reading and so sending love and hugs from over the pond.

Thanks to all. There are many blessings. A loyal mate, two loving and loveable daughters, four talented, kind grandchildren, a loving sheltie dog, wonderful neighbors, a job that matches my skills and talents, food on the table and heat int he house, a bright moon at night and sunshine at day, LT friends who sustain me, and the ability to walk and function.

Amen!

BOOK#85

The Poet's Dog by Patricia MacLachlan

I'm never disappointed by the books of Maclachlan. She writes with depth of feeling and wonderment that lasts after the book is finished.

An Irish Wolfhound who was previously rescued by her poet owner Sylvan, finds two children in the snow. As the sleet and gusting winds pound them, the dog walks them to safety.

As the power flickers off and on, and the snow pelts the windows, all is calm and cozy in the cabin. In grief, Teddy the dog misses his owner who died. In hope, the children long to know that their parents will find them.

The images are soft. A light reflected from the cabin window unto the piles of snow, the taste of simple meals scrounged together, a soft fire with plenty of logs to sustain them all work together to paint calm and serenity.

This is a lovely book to read during the holidays when we are reminded that those who give are given to in many miraculous ways.

>96 Whisper1: Good review, Linda!
I have got this book already on my wishlist as Joe was warbling about it :-)

Happy belated Thanksgiving, dear one. Here's hoping that the next week will be kinder to you, and that the shot on the 5th will do its' job. :)

>96 Whisper1: Yay! Love that book. Nice review, Linda.

Thinking of you. Hope you are finding some peace and serenity.

Hi, Linda! Hope you are feeling better. Gentle hug to my pal.

I have The Poet's Dog, waiting at the library, for me.

>96 Whisper1: I borrowed a copy of The Poet's Dog and read it on my kindle during my lunch today. Such a sweet story!

Hugs to you, Linda!

Very sorry you're in so much pain -- again, still. Seems you've been through so much, too much. Gentle hugs to you!

I hope you feel better soon, Linda!

Thanks to all. After seven surgeries in six years, my positive outlook sustained me. Lately though, as the pain is increasing, my spirits are not up to the usual par. I am still able to see good in all things, it is simply that the light isn't as bright.

I will be heading to Ohio from mid December through the 28th to celebrate Christmas with my daughter Amy, son in law Tony, twin grandsons and spunky grand daughter. I had such a marvelous experience last year, and I am counting on another magical time. We will attend the Dayton Ballet of the Nutcracker. This was quite a high light last year. Grandson/dancer Jack is now at another studio -- one that is significantly more levels and higher degree of challenge. He amazes me.

Grandson Luke is performing in his school band concert. He plays the trombone. I'm so happy that I will be there. And, Zoe and I always have a delightful time. She is such a lovely child.

Will remains home with Sheltie Lilly and our family. Daughter Breanna and grand daughter Kayla will be staying here many days to keep him company.

Traveling is difficult for me. My energy level is low and it is my hope that flights will not be cancelled and I won't be bounced from one terminal to another.

In the meantime, I'll see Diane Keenoy this coming Saturday when Will and I meet her at the Bethlehem Library sale. Her husband Kevin will join us. I'm looking forward to meeting him.

Life is good! Happy December to all!

>105 Whisper1: I hope you enjoy your time in Ohio, Linda, a performance of the Nutcracker is always a treat.
Wishing you smooth travels & sending love.

Anita, Harmonic Convergence is in the air. I was posting on your thread as you were posting on mine.

>107 Whisper1: Great minds think alike ;-)

Hi Linda, hope you have a lovely time in Ohio my dear with your daughter and family and enjoy the Nutcracker. I remember playing the part of the father when we did it in junior school which seems a very long time ago. Sending love and hugs dear friend.

>105 Whisper1:. Linda, we're looking forward to seeing you and Will tomorrow!

Linda--Sounds like you have fun times ahead and I hope they distract you from the pain. Enjoy!!!!

Linda, I trust you will have had a great meet-up and a peaceful pain-free weekend. xx

Will and I had a marvelous time with Diane and her husband Kevin. We talked so much that I forgot to take a picture

The library sale, as always, was very productive. I managed to buy 20 books on Wednesday for $19, and then spent $12 yesterday for 14 books. Now, where in the world can I find space for them? The jewel was a large, coffee-table size book of Audobon's drawings of animals. Since I never knew that he drew anything except birds, I was amazed! In excellent condition, it was a mere $2.00.

BOOK #79


Faithful by Alice Hoffman


Alice Hoffman never disappoints, and this book is yet another top notch read on the ladder of 30 successful books.

When teen aged Shelby listens to her best friend and drives through snow, hitting an icy patch that spins the car out of control, renedering her friend forever on life support, Shelby becomes locked in grief.

Shaving her hair to become bald, living hermit-like in her parents basement, venturing out only to meet a local near do well who provides pot to her, in her guilt, Shelby remains locked in the past in an event she feels totally responsible for.

Eventually, it is the love and accumulation of animals that saves Shelby when she moves to New York with her pot providing friend who now is working his way through college.

Shelby uses him, but he loves her and will keep her at any cost. Eventually, Shelby moves on to find a life worth living.

Filled with heart felt emotion, Hoffman once again provides a wonderful story of guilt, gief and redemption. Unlike other authors who write many books while using their same story line over and over to the point of boredom, Hoffman always recreates magic!

>114 Whisper1: I'm starting Faithful today and can't wait to get into it! We just brought the tree in and we're letting it settle. Kevin will put on the lights while he watches football. Hope the Giants do well or our tree might take a beating! I have all my new books piled up next to me while I think about where to put them. Hopefully, later I can update my books over on my poor neglected thread!

Yesterday was so much fun, I don't think we ever stopped talking!

>115 Dianekeenoy: Hi Dinae, yes, it was a lovely day. We are also decorating the tree, little b it at a time. I realize that therre are more lights on the bottom than on the top of the tree and now have to restring them. ugh.

BOOK #80

Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley



A very touching tribute to the love and strength our pets provide. Tad is a middle-aged man with failed relationships with others, but not with Lily. His life with Lily is perfect, except for one thing -- the octopus, ie cancerous growth -- that sits atop Lily's head and will not go away.

Calling the tumor an octopus enables Tad to embody the growth and make it a dramatic fight between the evil that vows to end Lily's life, and the sheer determination of Tad who refuses to let go of his beloved dog.

Except for what I consider a weird bit before the end, I rank this is one of the best books of 2016. I sincerely hope it garners the National Book Award Finalist list.

Any one who had to say goodbye to a wonderful soul mate, knows the angst profound poignancy.

BOOK #81

The Long Shadow of Chernobyl by Gerd Ludwig

This is a large sized book filled with incredible photos and written depictions of the horror that was, and remains 30 years later.

As radioactive particles circled the globe, the failure to report the nuclear meltdown of reactor #4, soon become a real force for the Ukraine to deal with.

The destruction continues as a large radius around the epicenter remains highly radioactive. We will never know the exact number impacted by the ineptitude, mismanagement, and faulty construction that is known as the worst radioactive event in the world.

BOOK #82


Michael Jackson: The Magic, The Madness, The Whole Story, 1958-2009 by ;;J. Randy Taraborrelli

Most likely, I've exhausted the subject of Michael Jackson and this will be the last book I'll read about him. Still, no matter how much is read, I'm always left with the sad, sad feeling of a small boy with amazing talent who remained a small boy with amazing talents and then threw it all away.

With top hit after top hit and concerts that brought the house down, Jackson was set to live a comfortable life until, things spiraled out of control when he was accused of molestation of young boys. Though not a shred of evidence was ever produced to substantiate the claims, Michael willingly paid off the parents.

With a family that perhaps loved his money more than him, there were little few people to guide him. And, his poor judgement did not enable him to listen to those who did provide clear suggestions. When drugs became a necessity, his emaciated body at the age of 50 simply could not sustain a soon to be on tour of a projected 50 concerts. Sadly, and it always will be sad, no matter how one feels about him, he died before the King of Pop could not regain his ruined perception of his life.

Taraborrelli writes a stellar depiction of a boy, like Peter Pan, who lived on an island surrounded by other children. Jackson's NeverLand with all his rides and game galleries enable him to remain childlike to the end.

BOOK 83

Something Like Hope by Stawn Gooldman


Written by an author who has vast experience in the child detention system, this is an incredible book of young 17 year old Shavonne who has somehow survived a very traumatic childhood, a life of failed foster home experiences and now resides in a juvenile detention facility.

Grieving the loss of her child, Shavonne lashes out at everyone, especially those she thinks are trying to help her.
The clock is ticking as she will soon be released from the facility and will have to face the outside world. Luckily, she is fortunate to have a dedicated, burnt out counselor who is watching the time slip with her as he attempts to allow her to face her demons and realize that so much of what happened to her at an early age, was none of her fault.

Superbly written, this is a truthful depiction of a young woman who must begin to make good decisions so that the rest of her life is not like the terrible years before.

Hi Linda, glad you had a lovely time with Diane and her husband Kevin at the book sale. It seems that you got some really good bargains my dear, sending love and hugs.

Hi Linda,
I hope you are well. It sounds like you had a good Thanksgiving holiday. Nice book haul too!

Awesome book reviews! I want to read Faithful, Something Like Hope and anything on Michael Jackson. So glad you had fun at your meetup and scored lots of great books. :)

Happy Sunday, Linda! Good review of Faithful. Sounds like a winner. I do not think I have ever read Hoffman.

I picked up my copy of The Poet's Dog today. Smiles...

I just must get around to reading Alice Hoffman. And what a find, that Audubon book! We gave my MIL a collection of his bird paintings in a coffee table book a few years ago, and she also says how much she enjoys it.

Dear Linda, I've been away from threads almost as much as you but came by to see whether you'd reported on your injection on the 5th....... Not yet, I see. I do hope that it wasn't awful and that it is giving you some amazing relief.

Hi Linda!! Just checking in here. Hope things are improving for you. Have you left for Ohio yet? I am sure you are excited! Hugs.

Hope you are in Ohio and having a great time with family, Linda.

Hi Linda, hope you are having a good time with the family and that you are ok my dear, sending love and hugs.

Hello to all, and many thanks for visiting. I haven't been on LT often and it saddens me that I am not in contact with my friends.

The injection a few weeks ago was actually not as painful as anticipated. However, when performing the procedure, because it was difficult for the pain management surgeon to find an area where he could navigate around the hardware, he warned that he might have to inject near the dura. In doing so, when I arose from the table, I had one heck of a terrible, immediate headache. I stayed at the surgical center for a few hours and then came home to rest.

Once again, Will was a big help in getting me to and from the center and then assisting when I got home. The next day I was headachy, but nothing like post injection. I was back to work in a few days.

And, the pain was well worth the outcome. My level of neck and upper back pain improved dramatically. I was able to return to work, and now I am in Beavercreek, Ohio enjoying the holiday with my family.

I sincerely hope that in 2017 I will not be posting as many health related issues, and will be able to read more and return to visiting the threads and participating at my usual level.

A big thanks again to all of you who have walked this journey with me.

YEAH!!!! Improvement just in time for the holidays with your family!!!I am so happy to see your message and hope that 2017 is a pain-free year!

Love you, sweetie! Enjoy your holidays!

While traveling from the Allentown, PA airport, where the flight was delayed three hours, my connecting flight in Philadelphia was cancelled, and thanks to Expedia (whom I highly recommend), I was rescheduled to a later flight from Philadelphia to Dayton, Ohio. Overall, I left at seven a.m. and arrived at 7:30 p.m., but this is good considering I left my area during an icy snowstorm.

Once again, Will was a knight in shining armor. I thought the Allentown flight would be cancelled because of the icy/snowy conditions, but the plane did get out, later than planned, but it was not cancelled. Will drove in terrible road conditions, both in getting me to the airport and then his return home.

He knew how much I wanted to be with daughter Amy, son in law Tony and my three grandchildren. The highlight of the trip will be attending the Dayton ballet again this year with grandson Jack in the Nutcracker performance.

I am resting and reading and spending time in the day with grandson Luke who is home from school ill. Tomorrow everyone will be home from work/school and we will begin our festivities. The smell of cookies filled the air last night as Amy and Jack made three different kinds of yummy cookies.

It is so good to read the injection helped you, Linda!!!
Enjoy your time with your family.
(((hugs)))

BOOK #84


Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse

Amsterdam under German occupation in 1943 is a dangerous place to live for all. Hanneke is a brave young woman who feeds her family by obtaining black-market items to those who have the money to pay for them. Using the funds to feed her family, they do not question how she obtains the needed goods they cannot obtain through rationing.

Everyday acts of rebellion occur by some of the very brave dutch occupants. Not all citizens are brave, or kind. This is a time when one never knows who is safe to share information with, and who is a traitor.

The author does a credible job of portraying the daily fear the people feel as one by one their Jewish neighbors are killed, or taken by train to death campus. The city is filled with those who help and then, those who squeal.

Grieving for a young boyfriend who never made it back from joining the ranks of those brave people who tried to stop the German occupation, Hanneke has learned how to flirt and how to lie in order to navigate streets where German soldiers carefully watch those who still live.

Hanneke must make a decision to help one of her clients find a young girl who is the only survivor when her family was brutally killed.

History written in YA form is an excellent way for young and older readers to learn of daily life in an occupied country taken over by brutal people who can smile or kill at the flick of a cigarette.

>130 Whisper1: Hi Linda. Soooo happy to see your post and to know you are relieved of pain and that you are safely ensconced in the arms of family for the holidays :)
Kudos to Will, again, for his fabulous Linda care!

What Brenda said, Linda.

Sorry the injection created that horrible headache, but what a great result in ultimately relieving your pain! Enjoy what sounds like a great holiday. Kudos to Will for being such an excellent partner.

Girl in the Blue Coat sounds like quite a book. Adding it to the YA wishlist.

I too have not been around so much. Catching up here, I'm glad to see post >130 Whisper1: with its bold improvement!

I can't tell you how happy I am to hear that you have finally gotten some relief. Nowhere near how much you are to have received it, I'm sure. LOL!

I am so glad I'm not flying anywhere this holiday season. Everyone I know has been experiencing delays -- and 3 hour ones are not unusual.

How wonderful that pain management has finally worked for you. I hope it lasts a long time. Sorry about the travel woes, though. My daughter is on her way home from Roanoke, VA, this afternoon---so far, all is going smoothly. Her dad is following her flight on the internet, but I prefer not to!

I'm adding my thanks and praise to the general rejoicing that the injection has given you so much less pain that you're enjoying your daughter and her family The merriest of Christmases to you all, dear Linda, and not least to Will, who is a dear soul!
>140 laytonwoman3rd: Linda, I'm with you. I find following a flight online just the least bit creepy.
We are here and will have Christmas with my mama and maybe a cousin. Let's hear it for the quiet life!

I'm so glad that the injection helped with your pain, Linda . Enjoy your time with your family. Thanks for the lovely Christmas image that you posted on my thread - greatly appreciated! (((( hugs )))))) xo Deborah

So glad the pain of the injection was worth it. Have some great family time!

>131 cyderry: Cheli, Many thanks for your outreach; I'm sorry I missed your phone call
>133 FAMeulstee: Hi Anita, Thanks for your kind words, as always!
>135 brenpike: Hi Brenda, I hope you are going to be spending time during the holiday with your two lovely grandsons!
>136 jnwelch: Hi Joe, I send all good wishes for a wonderful holiday. Thanks for your outreach...much appreciated
>137 qebo: Catherine, I read your thread regarding your job situations and want you to know I'm thinking of you.
>138 Morphidae: Hi Morphie...I'm thinking of you and Mr. Morphy and hoping you are having a wonderful holiday
>139 thornton37814: Lori, flying during the holidays and wintertime is almost always problematic. I'm not able to drive the 10-12 hour trek any more, so flying is the only option. Perhaps next year, my family will come home to PA.
>140 laytonwoman3rd: Linda, I trust your daughter made it home safely. All good wishes for a lovely holiday.
>141 LizzieD: Peggy, What a dear, dear soul you are. Thank you for your support this past year, and those before that. You are appreciated.
>142 vancouverdeb: Hi Deborah. Thanks for the kind wishes. I hope your holiday is lovely.
>143 The_Hibernator: Rachel, Is it snowy in your area of MN? Happy Holidays to you

I am pleased that you are able to spend time with your family during the holiday and I am eager for pictures of your grandson during his performance. I remember an earlier picture of him dancing and how talented he is. take care and Merry Christmas.

Yes! It's snowy, but not as cold as it was last week. We'll be getting a blizzard on Christmas!

Behind on reviews, I'm going to spend some time today trying to catch up:

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #98 READ IN OCTOBER

Kevin Henkes Owen

When Owen continues to haul around a dirty, old baby blanket, his parents attempt to talk him into leaving this behind. Frustrated, finally they find a solution. Rather than clinging to an old large blanket, his parents cut the blanket into newly washed squared.

A Caldecott winner, the illustrations, while not spectacular, are original:



ILLUSTRATED BOOK #99 READ IN OCTOBER

Sassafras by Audrey Penn



Feeling lonely and upset, Sassafras the skunk does not like the fact that other critters don't want to be around him because he stinks.

In talking to other animals, he learns that his uniqueness is a necessary defense mechanism and that many other animals have a defense mechanism as well.

This is a great story to read to a child who feels they don't quite fit in.



ILLUSTRATED BOOK #100 READ IN OCTOBER

Neville by Norton Juster with illustrations of G. Brian Karas



Neville moves to a new town, again! Weary of all the moves and trying to make new friends, Neville is upset. Understanding this, his mother tells him to go outside and try to find friends. While walking around the neighborhood, Neville decides to call his name loudly as though he is looking for a boy named Neville.

Shortly thereafter, a boy joins him and loudly calls the name Neville. Followed by other children, they also call the name Neville. In time, Neville has a group of children calling his name. Alas, he has begun friendships with new people.

Hi, Linda! Adding my hallelujah to the comments rejoicing in the pain relief you received from the injection. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas with your family.

HI Terri. So nice to have a visit from you. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

ILLUSTRATED BOOKS READ IN NOVEMBER #101

The Reindeer Wish by Lori Evert illustrated by Per Breig Breiehagen

Last year during the Christmas season, I enjoyed The Christmas Wish, this year, I was delighted to see The Reindeer Wish on the shelf at Barnes and Noble. Though the first book had a lovely story line, and exquisite photos to tell the story, this year's book was weak regarding a story line, but the photos were just as lovely.

The story of Anja, a Nordic child who finds a baby reindeer lost in the woods. The book is filled with lovely photos of Anja (who is the daughter of the photographer Per Breiehagen.)

Highlighting beautiful weather, it confirms my desire to travel to Norway. Worth the time spent sitting in a comfortable chair, coffee nearby, as I turned each lovely double-page spread.

This is well worth the money spent as an addition to Christmas illustrated books.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK READ IN NOVEMBER 2016 #102

What Do You Do With a Problem by Kobi Yamada with illustrations by Max Besom



I very much liked this creative book both for the writing and the excellent illustrations. The boy in the story has obsessive compulsive traits which lead him to circle constantly around a problem. The more he worries, the worse the problem becomes in his mind. Focusing on the problem while trying to make it go away isn't successful.

Finally, meeting the problem head own provides solutions.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #103 READ IN NOVEMBER 2016

Jumanji by the very talented illustrator and story teller Chris Van Allsburg


I've always admired the illustrations of Chris Van Allsburg. The illustrations in Jumanji are black and white, lending an eeriness about the story of a brother and sister who discover a board game.

Told they must play to the end, there is an element of fear and uncertainty as the descriptions become literal. When landing on a space that instructs that monkeys will steal food, real monkeys appear.

A host of very well drawn animals come alive, leading the reader to embrace the creativity of this book.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #104 READ NOVEMBER 2016

Thunder Boy, Jr by Sherman Alexie



Thunder boy loves his father Thunder Boy, Sr. He simply would like to have his own identity and different name. Weaving information of the American Native culture, the story and illustrations are lovely. Sherman Alexie is one of my favorite YA authors, and it is nice to see him expanding genres.

Dear Linda, I am so glad that the injection had such a positive effect! I know how much you enjoy your family time, and especially Jack's performance.

Hi Roni

I such all good wishes for a wonderful holiday!

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #105 READ NOVEMBER 2016

The Nutcracker based on the 1954 George Balanchine production for the New York City Ballet, Valeria Docampo (Illustrator)



No matter how many times I read the story, or watch the ballet, I am always mesmerized at the sheer beauty and creativity of the story. In particular, the illustrations of Valerie Docampo are lovely.

ILLUSTRATED BOOK #106 READ IN NOVEMBER 2016


The Darkest Dark by Chris Hanfield, illustrated by The Fan Brothers and Kat Fillion

The story and illustrations are lovely. A book about overcoming fear and uncertainty which most children and adults can relate to.

Written by Canadian Chris Hadfield, who is one of the world's well-known astronaut, this is a story of how he was gripped by fear of darkness. Until, one night while looking up at the stars, he had the sudden realization that space is about as dark as dark can get.

Learning to watch the night star and learn about planets and space, he set the goal of becoming an astronaut.

CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED BOOK #107 READ NOVEMBER 2016
A Child of Books by Oliver Jeffers Author and co-illustrator. Sam Winston co-Illustrator



A wonderful tribute to children who love to read and how their love of the printed word is shared and given to others. In this tale a well-read girl finds a lonely boy and together they travel.

Words could not do this story justice. So I will simply say, read it, and enjoy the illustrations. I think you will like it!

Hi, Linda! Great news about your health. It is about time, you had some relief. Let's hope it continues my friend.

I would like to read Thunder Boy.

Hi Mark

Thanks for being such a loyal friend. I am counting on 2017 as a better year, one with less health issues, one with no surgeries.

I look forward to learning what you are reading.

Hi Linda, Karen and I would like to wish you and the family a very merry Christmas and whilst we celebrate take a moment to think of those less fortunate than ourselves due to war, starvation and natural disasters. Sending love and hugs.

Wouldn't it be nice if 2017 was a year of peace and goodwill.
A year where people set aside their religious and racial differences.
A year where intolerance is given short shrift.
A year where hatred is replaced by, at the very least, respect.
A year where those in need are not looked upon as a burden but as a blessing.
A year where the commonality of man and woman rises up against those who would seek to subvert and divide.
A year without bombs, or shootings, or beheadings, or rape, or abuse, or spite.

2017.

Festive Greetings and a few wishes from Malaysia!

Merry Christmas!!

Merry Christmas Linda! I am so happy that the injection has made things better. I also see that you have been reading more gorgeous picture books.
Thank you for your time, your kind words and the books we enjoy together. I hope your holiday celebrations are full of joy.

Merry Christmas Linda! Hope 2017 brings health and happiness!

Peace on Earth and Happy Holidays!

Thanks to all! I send all good wishes for a wonderful, peaceful holiday!

I'm in Ohio with daughter Amy and family. I've been here a week, slept a lot, read some books, ate too many Hershey's kisses and home made cookies.

I'm having a wonderful time with my family. It is cold, cold, cold here. Unlike Pennsylvania where I live, there are few trees here to buffer the wind. Snow turns to ice, and wind is bitter. But, I like it here. People are very friendly. How unusual it is to be in public and note that doors are left open for those coming behind. People smile and wish Happy Holidays.

BOOK #86


Prip'Yat: The Beast of Chernobyl by Mike Kraus

Pripyat is a town that was built near the Urkranie nuclear power plant of Chernobyl. in the town, approximately 36 hours after reactor 4 at the nuclear power plant in Chernobyl spewed more radioactivity that released in the bombings of Hirosima and Nagasaki, Japan, were evacuated by bus.

Believing they would return to their homes shortly after evacuation, all belongings were left. Today nature has taken over as trees grow through concrete, paint peals, a ferris wheel, registering high levels of radioactivity, and crumbled, unsafe buildings abound.

Written in a science fiction style. This is a tale of two undercover men assigned to enter the town and kill a beast secretly reported to be roaming the area. In addition, two young boys who dare to enter the city because they are interested in the thrill of seeing the abandonment obtain more than they bargained or hoped to see.

Finding the beast who seems to thrive on consuming high levels of radioactivity, proves to be highly dangerous.

The writing is good, the story interesting, the end predictable, I read this in one sitting. Usually not my type of book, but it is good to periodically try something different.

BOOK #87


America's Most Haunted: The Secrets of Famous Paranormal Places
by Eric Olsen

Well written, informative, interesting tales of paranormal activity in various places throughout the United States. Including, The Queen Mary, where ghostly images abound of those who died during WWI when the ship was used to carry soldiers across the sea. The Knickerbocker Hotel in Linesville, PA where spirits like to take tangible items and make them disappear, The Willoughby Coal and Garden Center where ghosts of those who live in the past frequently come though and communicate, including an old dog, and of course, the highlight is the famous hotel where Stephen King stayed, experienced paranormal activities which then prompted him to write one of his best selling books, The Shining.

Worth the read, and well researched.

BOOK #88


Come to Me by Amy Blooom

A National Book Award Finalist, I'm not sure how to rate this book which is a series of 12 short stories, some of which are mutiple tales of the characters at different times of their lives. In some, there is an interweaving of characters. Intense and somewhat interesting, the author brings her knowledge of psychology of people and their motivations.

The first story title Love is Not Pie, was, in my opinion, the best in the series, then some of the others fell flat. Ina few there was a creepiness I reacted against. In particular a story of an over weight, greasy haired young woman who allows a much older man to seduce her. Following her to and from school, enticing her to dress in hats and furs.

I've read one of Amy Bloom's other books and did not rate it highly. While she knows her field of psychology, I think I'll skip further books.

Merry Christmas from the Koons household to yours!

Merry Christmas, Linda!

This is the Christmas tree at the end of the Pacific Beach Pier here in San Diego, a Christmas tradition.

To all my friends here at Library Thing, I want you to know how much I value you and how much I wish you a very happy holiday, whatever one you celebrate, and the very best of New Years!

Happy Holidays, Linda :)

Happy Holidays, Linda.

Happy Holidays, Linda. I hope you are enjoying a pain free time with family.

Morning Linda! Wishing you another day of holiday bliss

Thank you to all! I hope this holiday is stress free.

And, may the year 2017 be filled with wonderful books that take you on incredible journeys.

Linda--So glad the injection worked!!! Wishing you fabulous holidays. Hugs.

Chiming in with the others: so great to read the injection helped!!

I missed my Christmas round this year, but am back in time to wish you and all your family all the best for the New Year and a "Safe Slide" (Guter Rutsch) into it! I should say a super-safe careful slide for you!

So happy to read of the dramatic improvements of the injection! I hope they are long lasting improvements!! Your Christmas in Beavercreek sounds delightful! Onward to 2017!!!

Happy Holidays, Linda!

I love the illustrated books you've been reading. They look like great ones, all.

Looking forward to your continued company in 2017.
Happy New Year, Linda

Happy New Year to you, Will and Lilly! Looking forward to many more books together in 2017!

Happy New Year, Linda!