by Janet Benton
Reviewed by Gail
This first book from UMass MFA grad is historical, touching, and also heartbreaking while being uplifting.
by Betty Comden
Reviewed by Janice
Here is a memoir by Betty Comden, who along with her long term business partner Adolph Green, wrote the screenplay and lyrics for "Singing in the Rain, as well as numerous movies and plays. Her col...
by W.G. Sebald
Reviewed by Donny
This is a great book and I'm so glad the Jones has it. I was totally absorbed. It's a book to re-read. Very layered reading.
by Ann Lamott
Reviewed by LPB
Anne Lamott uses a journal style to discuss her innermost feelings about her son, Sam, and his girlfriend's decision to have their baby Jax at 19 years old. The books FULL of racial slurs about "Hispani...
by Tony Judt & Timothy Snyder
Reviewed by Marcin
A stimulating conversation between two great intellectuals and historians of both Eastern and Western Europe. Topics include Tony's life, history of Jews in Europe, totalitarianism, an...
by Seanan McGuire
Reviewed by JL
If you've ever wondered "What happens after?" when reading a tale of other dimensions or worlds, this book is for you. Part murder mystery, part coming-of-age, a little bit dark humor. I loved i...
by C.A. Higgins
Reviewed by Phelan
Frankly, this book was far too dismal. That's not to say I don't enjoy dismal books, but Supernova makes everything so hopeless and generally terrible that I ultimately lost all motivation to finish it ...
by Catherynne M. Valente
Reviewed by Amy S
Really fun and different read. These are the stories of the "damsels in distress" from superhero stories, told from their perspective. Very funny and also kind of raw.
by Susan Morgan
Reviewed by Marie
A fascinating tale of Anna Leonowens, carefully researched to dispel misconceptions from The King and I and falsehoods from Anna herself.
by Elizabeth Kostova
Reviewed by JRR
Set in Bulgaria, this book is two intertwined stories - one "present" and one "past". The past story of Lazarov in the communist era is magnificent. The modern story, much less so....
by Jenna Blum
Reviewed by MA
Very well-written book about the Holocaust and its affect on one mother and daughter. Themes of family secrets, love, and forgiveness. Excellent.
by Ron Chernow
Reviewed by PL
A very detailed, well researched biography of the founder of Standard Oil (Esso). He contrasts the ruthless businessman with the Baptist philathropist, who founded a school for black women and the University...
by Deborah Harkness
Reviewed by Lara
This book is a blend of Harry Potter and Twilight, but for adults. The author thoroughly immerses you into the witch/vampire/daemon world of England, and draws you into the start of this wonderful tri...
by Nathaniel Philbrick
Reviewed by Frank S.
The story that inspired Moby Dick. The real tale is after they sink!
by Tatiana de Rosnay
Reviewed by Valerie
De Rosnay has written Manderley Forever in the emotional and literary spirit of Daphne Du Maurier. This book reads like a page-turning novel, unraveling the mysteries of this very popular writer.
by Jane Austen
Reviewed by Amy
I love all of Jane Austen's books, but Emma is a difficult character to like. The movie adaption Clueless captured Emma, who is blithely unaware of everyone around her.
by Susan Branch
Reviewed by CH
A charming diary of a 2 month journey around lovely England - historical sites and walking paths. Wonderful!
by Elena Ferrante
Reviewed by EA
Everyone raves about this series, so I was ready to love this book. I couldn't finish it! I got to page 172 and felt like torture. I found the writing to be stilted and there was no plot. I didn't like th...
by Patricia Wells
Reviewed by MDS
Well organized cookbook with good recipes and great tips.
by Eric Hinderaker
Reviewed by Becky
Hinderaker tells history like a true storyteller (in the manner of David McCullough). A significant investigation into the use of violence by police, applicable to the present day.
by Anu Partanen
Reviewed by Ella
This book outlines how unjust and unequal childcare, education, and healthcare policies are in the US. It offers wonderful and hopeful prescriptions for fixing these problems in America. A must read!
by Nigel Cliff
Reviewed by Anonymous
Van Cliburn was a true American hero, albeit by accident. His talents were undeniable. The book was a well-documented life of the pianist.
by Jancee Dunn
Reviewed by MB
The title is inflammatory, which I did not like. I found myself hiding it from my kids. As for the book, there was thought-provoking information and ideas. It really is a self-awareness and relationship self...
by Dalai Lama XIV and Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Reviewed by Jeannine
An intriguing combination of philosophy and self-help advice. Enjoyed how Abrams tied together the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhism's Eastern approach to life with Tutu and Christia...
by Julian Fellowes
Reviewed by Rebecca
For fans of Downton Abbey, this period drama set in the mid-19th century has many twists and turns that make it an enjoyable read. Lovers of English aristocracy will find this a treat!
by Donna Andrews
Reviewed by Mandi
Cozy mystery lovers will enjoy this first book in the series. Great character development that really makes you root for the whole family. A wonderful summer read.
by Brad Watson
Reviewed by JR
Watson's beautiful prose and intriguing characters make this book a binge read-worthy page turner. Readers will be drawn into the unique challenges faced by Miss Jane, a girl with a strong spirit and careful powers of...
by Jesmyn Ward
Reviewed by EZ
Enduring the challenges of onoing poverty and the looming crisis of Hurrican Katrina, 15 year old Esch narrates her family's flaws, incredible humanity, and resiliance. A beautiful story - you can feel the humidity an...
by Jhumpa Lahiri
Reviewed by DR
A relatable book about immigration and assimiliation to the US from India. The hardships Ashima endures as a wife and mother are captured beautifully.
by Vic James
Reviewed by Helena
Interesting premise - 10 years of slavery - that is believable within the story. I got caught up in the characters and cared what happened to them. Looking forward to the next volume.
by Lyanda Lynn Haupt
Reviewed by Naya
Such a magical mix of memoir and biography, with plenty of ecology and natural history. I was surpised at how engaging the story was, and it made for a quick, unique read.
by M. L. Rio
Reviewed by SKG
Rio carefully constructs a tale of love, betrayal, desperation, and ultimate sacrifice. Suspenseful 'til the very last page, the author's attention to detail can be appreciated by not only Shakespeare fans bu...
by Cahterine Burns, editor
Reviewed by Lucy P.
This is a collection of presentations on The Moth Radio Hour. Every one is a gem.