Well, we are down to the wire on this years first half of the book group books. There have been some really good books and some of the usual stinkers.
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain was a really good book and a great balence between fiction and truth. the story of Earnest Hemmingway's early adult years seen through the eyes of his young wife was a really good choice for the group.
Nine Lives by Dan Baum falls under the stinker category. Even though the stories are riveting and varied showing us the lives of several Katrina survivors, the writing left us cold. I think Dan should stick to reporting.
Finn by Jon Clinch. I don't even know where to start with this one. compelling, disturbing, sometimes confusing on the time line and yet I kept reading to find out what happens. This is the story of Huck Finn's father, one of the most discussing characters you will ever read about, but it is liking watching a train wreck. You can't look away.
Room by Emma Donoghue. We read this book last year for the Meadowdale Book group.
The Worst Hard Time The Untold story of Those who Survived the Great American Dust Bowl by Timothy Egan was a wonderful look at a horrific time in American history. It was so well written you would forget you were reading a non fiction account with real people. This was my favorite book of the 6 month series.
The God of Animals by Aryn Kyle is a well told story of a family with a lot of problems who are able to come together for each other when they need to. I don't think I would recommend this to others but I did appreciate the story and the writing..
