The Red Tent by Anita Diamante - A thoughtful account of the life of women – their trials and their strengths.
- Very well written book capturing the life of a strongwoman – illustrating ups and downs – teaching you to always keep going. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. There is hope.
- It made me appreciate the fact that I live in the modern world. We women have come a long way!
- I want a Red Tent for my daughters and myself!
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver♦ A clash of cultures as related by the women of a missionary family – each voice is different but very enlightening.
♦ A very engaging book – each character was fully developed and had her own identity and view of their time in Africa. A thick book but very interesting read.
♦ An absorbing story told in 1st person narration – informative accounting of historical background of Congo.
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus• Based on historical facts, the author took a “what if” approach and wove a story of suspense, tragedy and love.
• A story of survival – women disparate to live their lives amongst the Cheyenne.
• A fascinating book based on a true event that never materialized. Each woman was unique in her own right. A great book.
• Thought it was great. I loved the characterization of the different women who married the Cheyenne. Each was distinctive personality. I also learned a great deal about the Cheyenne and their outlook on life. We could learn from them. Brother Anthony was an especially inspiring character. Good relations do come down to tolerance and love.
Life of Pi by Yannie Martel º Thought provoking story – the reader can pick the better story as an ending. Very descriptive writing. Very imaginative and absorbing. The character was developed so well.
º A very descriptive book, could really picture in your mind the actions being described and relationships being built.
º Very strange story but fascinating description and characterization even the character of the tiger. Good lessons about religions in harmony and about man’s interaction with nature.
1776 by David McCullough
v Although we know the outcome of the Revolution, the book was so well written it made me want to read just one more page, just one more page … to the very end.
v McCullough offers wonderful portraits of Washington and his generals and makes the revolutionaries very human. He also points out that 1776 – the year of the Declaration of Independence – was one of the darkest moments in our fight for freedom.
v If history was taught giving the participants human qualities, instead of names and dates, I would have paid more attention in school. McCullough does just that – gives human qualities, thoughts, emotions to each: George Washington, Nathanael Greene, Henry Knox to name just a few. Their heroic fight on our land and surrounding states made you appreciate their sacrifice in the name of freedom.
A wonderful story of growing up in a poor but loving family. A story, too, of a place early in the 20th century - Brooklyn. This is an American classic.
I remember in school we weren't allowed to read this book. Francie Nolan grows up with a sweet, tragic father, a severely realistic mother, and an aunt who gives her love too freely--(which is probably why we weren't allowed to read it) to men, and to a brother who will always be the favored child. You should run not walk to your library and read this great classic.
A great story about a girl coming of age in Brooklyn. Despite all of her difficulties she still blossoms and strives to become her best. A wonderful book that can always be read over and over.
