Swerve by Vicki Pettersson

Swerve by Vicki Pettersson

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Andrew Zollman

What I Read: Swerve by Vicki Pettersson

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: Kristine Rush and her fiancé, Daniel, are making their journey from Las Vegas to Lake Arrowhead, California in the high summer in the Mojave Desert. Everything starts out just like a typical fun road trip together, enjoying the road and the scenery. But when Daniel is abducted at a desolate rest stop, Kristine is forced to choose: return home, never to see her fiancé again, or go on alone to search for him... where a killer lies in wait. Kristine races against time, uncertain if danger lies ahead or behind. What awaits Kristine along her journey through stark darkness? What horrors she will see? Desperate to save her husband-to-be, she must go head-to-head against an unpredictable foe. She'd better hurry, too...because she only has twenty-four hours.

What I Thought: I am what many people would call a scaredy-cat. I avoid trouble at all costs, abstain from anything that would dilute my mind or make my head fuzzy (food poisoning notwithstanding), and make sure I stay safe and cozy at home with a good book or a friend for a movie. This book is everything anathema to my life. Whether it was the setting, the characters, or event that unfolded, this story was seriously creepy and took me out of my happy place. Kristine and Daniel definitely got into the thick of things with their poor decision-making skills.

If there was one thing I got out of this book, is that it was well written and supported by the author to give the reader a seriously wild ride to gnaw their teeth at to the extreme. The story has further given me proof that it is dangerous outside and that there are seriously dangerous people among us, that we don’t actively see. Stay safe out there and avoid rest stops…

Readalikes: Hope to Die by James Patterson

Or look this book up on NoveList!

Burning Down George Orwell's House by Andrew Ervin

Burning Down George Orwell's House by Andrew Ervin

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Laurie Boone

What I Read: Burning Down George Orwell's House by Andrew Ervin

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: A successful advertising executive, in an attempt to flee his inner demons by moving to remote Scotland, finds himself instead confronting demons of the ordinary human kind…and possibly a werewolf. Ray Welter made a fortune as an advertising executive whose ads promoted a toxic product. He got the idea from George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, a work with which Ray is strangely obsessed. When his marriage and life fall apart in Chicago, he decides to move into the house where Orwell wrote Nineteen Eighty-Four; a house located on the remote Scottish island of Jura. What seemed like a good idea at the time ends up having rather twisted (and darkly funny) consequences.

What I Thought: I picked this up to read based solely on the great title, but after reading for about ten minutes I knew this was going to be good. Ray’s desire to escape the ‘Big Brother’ world of technology and “civilization” is something a lot of modern people can relate to. Fortunately, or unfortunately for Ray, depending on how you look at it, the island of Jura is populated by eccentrics and other malevolently amusing characters who really stick it to Ray and his dream of escape. Ray took inspiration for his manipulative ad campaign from Nineteen Eight-Four, and then Ray ends up being manipulated himself by everything dark and light, sinister and hilarious, human and maybe not so human in George Orwell’s house on the island of Jura.

Readalikes: 1984 by George Orwell. Mosquito Coast by Paul Theroux

Or look this book up on NoveList!

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 6, Part 2

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 6, Part 2

Posted by Anonymous

Here's the last installment of book reviews from this year's Adult Summer Reading Program! We had a fantastic turnout for our first year of patron reviews. Thanks again to everyone who participated.

Reviewed by: Diana A.
What I Read: My Daniel by Pam Conrad
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: I like the story about a brother & sister. Also the brother died at young age. The sister becomes a grandmother she conclusion a story about dinosaur bones.
Story was very touching its interesting too. I lived in the west we were have desert, so reading about the Nebraska farm was is something different. I enjoyed the story.

Reviewed by: Diana A.
What I Read: Remnants by Robin Barcell
What It's About: I like the book it was interesting. It was a fantasy. It was something of the make believe. I like reading about mystery and fiction combine It made a book I would recommend to anyone to read.
Coming back 500 yrs. and finding that everything has change everything is gone. I find it extremely sad.

Reviewed by: Humberb L.
What I Read: Party Games by R.L. Stine
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: I liked the book Party Games because when I was reading the book I imagined myself being in the story and I thought to myself I'd be scared to death to play those games. What I thought about "Goosebumps The Haunted Mask" is what can a scary mask do? I thought the book gave me goosebumps when I was reading the book I couldn't believe how the girl in the story had these powers by just wearing a scary mask but I still liked it.

Reviewed by: Deb D.
What I Read: The True Story of Hansel and Gretel by Louise Murphy
What It's About: This book is a novel of war & survival taking place during the winter of 1947 - World War II. It follows the lives of children & adults who survived the Holocaust by hiding out in an ancient forest, changing their identity, participating in resistance movements & those who did whatever they could to overcome racism & war.
The heroes of this book are those who struggled for survival. This is an extremely important event in history that should never be forgotten!

Reviewed by: Deb D.
What I Read: Soul Healing Miracles by Dr. & Master Zhi Gang Sha
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: This book, although not an easy read, gave a variety of resources & techniques to approach meditation & spiritual healing. The author makes an attempt to bring Western Mind into Eastern Thoughts by incorporating multiple religious philosophies. This book would appeal to someone with a very open mind who is looking for a new way to heal the spiritual, mental, emotional & physical bodies.

Reviewed by: Deb D.
What I Read: Unnatural Selection by Emily Monosson
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: This book is about the constant evolution of all organisms & how environmental factors impact this evolution.
It discusses the use of pesticides, toxic chemicals, vaccines, antibiotics & other drugs to treat a variety of environmental issues affecting insects, birds, fish, animals & humans.
The information presented is useful for anyone concerned about the environment they live in. The heroes of this book are those who started addressing some of these issues over 50 years ago & those who continue to bring an awareness of these issues.

Reviewed by: Kristin B.
What I Read: Winter of the Ice Wizard by Mary Pope Osborne
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: The Wizard learned how to "see again" not only with his eyes, but with his heart.
It was a great adventure that is another to show how working together works best.
My oldest (7 yr old) has become infatuated with the series and has learned quite a bit from Jack & Annies travels.

Reviewed by: Kristin B.
What I Read: The Best Mistake Ever! and Other Stories by Richard Scarry
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: This main story is a great way to show kids how to cope with issues. The pictures really kept my kids interested in the story as well.
Having multiple short stories in a book kept my youngest son (3 yr. old) interested, because things just kept changing.

Reviewed by: Kristen B.
What I Read: No Mail for Mitchell by Catherine Siracusa
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: It was nice to see that the community thought so highly of the dear mail carrier.
When he fell ill everyone sent him mail and showed that they really do appreciate him.

Reviewed by: Phyllis C.
What I Read: Fear the Darkness by Becky Masterman
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: It was an easy to read & enjoy book. Kept you guessing to the end. A real unexpected ending. Sometimes the one you least expect shows their true colors in the end.

Reviewed by: Phyllis C.
What I Read: Broken Bonds by Karen Harper
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: I thought the book easy reading. Sometimes it made you remember thing like schooling that you took for granted was not always so for everyone. It also made you realize there was always someone who cared and tried to make a difference. And of course the mystery part was what made the book what it is. I always like all of her books.

Reviewed by: Phyllis C.
What I Read: Life or Death by Michael Robothan
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: I wasn't sure I would like this book. It was a new author for me. Most of the book I read are by authors I am familiar with. However they cant write them fast enough for me so I am always looking for some one new. This was very good - a little different from the usual. I had me really feeling sorry for who I thought was a criminal. A strong character & what he goes through make a very interesting & tense reading

Reviewed by: Phyllis C.
What I Read: Kickback by Robert Parker
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: The book was about a judge, and his unreasonable sentencing of juveniles to lock down facilities on an island. The judges proved to be corrupt but. the people of the town were too intiminate to do anything till Spencer & Hawk went to their rescue.
As always R. Parker came through with a well written, easy to follow enjoyable book.

Reviewed by: Phyllis C.
What I Read: Silver Thaw by Catherine Anderson
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: Silver Thaw was a book about an abused wife and child and the fears they had & how difficult it was to live. Until a gentleman & his family and neighbors helped them survive a very bad snowstorm & then continued to help them gain their freedom from the abusive husband.
I really enjoyed reading the book and following their gradual acceptance of everyone's help, although it was difficult to read about the HORRIBLE ABUSE

Reviewed by: Phyllis C.
What I Read: Unbreakable by Nancy Mehl
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: This book is about life in the Mennonite village the people encounter life threatening situations and their struggle to uphold their beliefs and still try to protect their people.
The book was easy reading and was informative about life as a mennonite and what they believe in!
I enjoyed this book!

Reviewed by: Laurie B.
What I Read: Cow Pies & Bases by Robert B. Coates
What It's About: I went to grade school with this author. His book was wonderful & as if I had written it because he described stuff just like I remembered.
The Yuma library got it for me on interlibrary & I really wish they owned it.
He went to a one room school for our last 8 years. Explained how it differed from a school in town, described his bike ride to school & who lived there. Names were changed, but I knew.
It was a farming community. There were 2 stores & a tavern on one crossroad & a school-church & cemetery on the next.

Reviewed by: Laurie B.
What I Read: Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: A wonderful book - only 3 or 4 pages to a sort of chapter. Had me in tears
Katie was in love with Matt after a different broken relationship. One day he said goodbye & a few days later sent a diary for her explanation
Suzanne & Matt were married & had a baby, Nicholas. A wonderful family for a year. But Suzanne had a bad heart years before. Didn't tell him at first. She was a doctor. She kept a diary for Nicholas. Wonderful words to her little boy. Then one chapter - Matt wrote in the diary because Suzanne had been killed by a heart attack & car accident. Matt sat by Nicholas crib & talked, but he was not there - killed too. When Katie finished the diary she went to find him. A neighbor told Katie he loved her. All turned out good - married & had baby.

Reviewed by: Laurie B.
What I Read: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: This is not my kind of book, but my adult granddaughter said it was so good: so I got it & kept on reading it. Parts were so violent I don't know how I could stand it. Terrible the things that man had to endure. Was an exceptional book though
Louis Zamperini was famous even before the war. He was a champion runner.
After his plane crashed he & another man were in rafts for days. Another man died & was pushed overboard. Rescue brought them into even more danger. One Japanese seemed to pick on him.
In 1998 at age 81 he carried the Olympic torch.

Reviewed by: Laurie B.
What I Read: Between Sundays by Karen Kingsbury
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What It's About: My husband chose this book for me not having any idea what it was about. It was wonderful & definitely started me on a new author.
Megan was a foster mom to Cory since his mom Amy died. She worked a lot with foster kids & got some football players to visit for a pizza party. Cory wrote a letter for one quarterback to give to another who he believed to be his dad. Then he met Aaron, but he hadn't read the letter. Went on like that & Aaron came more cause he began to talk to God. The other quarterback did that cause he needed to win for a promise he made
Finally Aaron was given a letter from Amy saying Cory was his son

That's it for the summer! Keep reading the Yuma County Library Staff Picks blog for more great suggestions from our librarians, and we'll look forward to featuring your input again next year.

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 6, Part 1

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 6, Part 1

Posted by Anonymous

Happy end of Summer Reading!! We had a record number of book reviews this week, so they've been broken up into two posts again. Look for the second installment on Thursday or Friday!

Reviewed by: Veronica
What I Read: The Winter Room by Gary Paulsen
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This books is about a young boy Eldon how live whit his family on a farm. Eldon describe whit details every day at the farm. In his narrative Eldon look back on smells, colors and activities that they need to do. This book talk about the family values, how the family is more important than the friend and all together obtain the best results. Another important success is in the winter room that is the living room in his farm

Reviewed by: Veronica
What I Read: The Tent by Gary Paulsen
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book is hilarious, about a men and his son, they want to make money spreading the word of god, but they have never read the bible before. I like it is a good life lesson.

Reviewed by: Veronica
What I Read: The Contender by Robert Lipsyte
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I love it because in our life always we are a contenders. this book is about Alfred he is a teenager with a rough life. his best friend James going to jail for robbery and Alfred doesn't want do the same. Alfred decides he wants to be a boxer, and begins his training at Donatelli's Gym, after that Alfred went back to night school to finish his education.

Reviewed by: Mea F.
What I Read: The Blue Tattoo by Margot Mifflin
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: The Blue Tattoo was a wonderful read. The book expounds on the life of Olive Oatman. Her family was traveling from the midwest to California during the gold rush period. The journey for the Oatman family was treacherous; loosing friends along the way, depleating supplies. Just miles east of Fort Yuma the family is confronted by Yavapai Indians. The Indians massacre the family and take Olive and her sister, Mary Ann captive. The book discusses much historical events and history of the Native tribes in the area. Being new to the Yuma area, the historical value is as important as Olive's story. I appreciated the author discussing Olive's life after captivity, as well as, including writtings by Olive. I truly enjoyed this story, although at times the story has tragic lows. Thank you.

Reviewed by: Linda P.
What I Read: A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: It was good she kept your emotions going thru out.

Reviewed by: Linda P.
What I Read: Until We Touch by Susan Mallery
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: She waits to long between series you forget characters until you're 1/2 way through

Reviewed by: Linda P.
What I Read: High-Risk Homecoming by Alison Stone
What I Thought: She kept you guessing right to the end who was really the drug dealer.

Reviewed by: Joann B. 
What I Read: Courage Stout by William MacLeod Raine
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This was a good cowboy book by a new to me author

Reviewed by: Joann B.
What I Read: Tough Hand by Wayne D. Overholser
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This was a different Western tale about a woman rancher, men working for her and driving cattle to market. There is a crooked banker and rowdey crooks, a hero that falls in love with the lady and helps her out. <3 Love

Reviewed by: Joann B.
What I Read: The Horse Creek Incident by Dusty Richards
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: A corupt town, big ranchers against settlers, killings and beatings, town being run by one big guy!! One guy (good) runs against current crooked sheriff, wins after hard work to have all good people working together. Lots of cold weather & snow.

Reviewed by: Tom B.
What I Read: Courage Stout by William MacLeod Raine
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Neal MacGowen, a small rancher, has to take on a group of large ranchers, who are calling all small ranch, rustlers. Very good reading.

Reviewed by: Tom B.
What I Read: Tough Hand by Wayne D. Overholser
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Good story
Jim Sullivan works for beautiful Troy Manders, helps her move her cattle, to land her father owns. Jim helps her fight the crookes, and crooked banker, who wants her land

Reviewed by: Tom B.
What I Read: The Horse Creek Incident by Dusty Richards
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Herschel Baker, had a close friend shot in the back & killed, a crooked sherriff, controlled by a very large cattle empire, refuses to look into the killing. Baker, a small rancher, decides to run for sherriff. A very good, interesting story.

Reviewed by: Angela T.
What I Read: Father Knows Less by Wendell Jamieson
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This was a funny book of anecdotes written by a reporter who wanted to answer the many random questions posed by his son. Instead of making up crazy answers, like his father did for him, the author takes time to contact various experts in the fields of study that the questions referred to. From astronauts (How far can a balloon go up until it pops?) to cultural anthropologists (Why can't I eat my sister?) these crazy questions and sometimes surprising answers will keep you entertained.

Reviewed by: Angela T.
What I Read: The Traitor's Wife by Allison Pataki
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: A Historical fiction set during the Revolutionary War, this book uncovers the secrets held in Benedict Arnold's household. His young charming wife, Peggy, along with her maid, shape the results of the trecherous dealings of Arnold and his British co-conspirator Major John Andre. A fairly well written debut novel, still had some cliches but overall, an interesting take on a piece of American history.

Prince of Fools by Mark Lawrence

Prince of Fools by Mark Lawrence

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Andrew Zollman

What I Read: Prince of Fools by Mark Lawrence

Find It @YCLD: Here! 

What It's About: The Red Queen is feared not for who she is but who she brings. The kings of the Broken Empire hold a fear like no other of what she can bring upon them. The Red Queen fights the long war. She works in secret against the other powers behind nations. Her greatest weapon is however The Silent Sister. She is unseen and most don’t know she exists until it is too late. The story follows the Red Queen’s grandson, Prince Jalan Kendeth. He’s a drinker, gambler, a seducer of women and one of the only men able to see The Silent Sister. Jalen or ‘Jal’ is the Tenth in line for the throne and is content with his role as a minor royal. For all his life he’s pretended that the hideous crone is not there. Unfortunately for Prince Jalen, war is coming. An undead army is on the march, and the Red Queen has called on her family to defend the realm. Jal, thinks it’s all a rumor—that nothing that will affect him—but he is wrong.

After escaping a death trap set by the Silent Sister, Jal finds his fate magically intertwined with a fierce Norse warrior named Snorri. As the two undertake a journey across the Empire to undo the spell that now bind them together, they encounter grave dangers, willing women, and an upstart prince named Jorg Ancrath along the way. Jalan gradually catches a glimmer of the truth: he and the Norseman are but pieces in a game, part of a series of moves in the long war—and the Red Queen controls the board.

What I Thought: The first in the series of the Red Queen’s War, I really enjoyed the creativity at play between the characters and how they think through their almost impossible situations. The action and adventure is edgy and gritty and not at all for the faint of heart. If you like adventure, magic, and dialog filled with intrigue and heart, this is a story for you.

Like Mark Lawrence’s first series ‘The Broken Empire’, he relies on presenting the reader with a smattering of pieces of a puzzle for the reader to put together as they go through the story. You will pick up little hints and tidbits here and there to lead you to the final goal of the character, but I bet you still won’t guess the ending with all that help. Have fun with the story and get to know the characters, the Red Queen’s War is long and it’s always going to be a bumpier ride than you are first lead to believe.

Readalikes: Prince of Thorns by Mark Lawrence | The Children of Hurin by J. R. R. Tolkien

Or look this book up on NoveList!

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015, Week 5

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015, Week 5

Posted by Anonymous

 
There's only one week left for summer reading! Be sure to turn in your last book reviews by Saturday, July 18th. If you haven't submitted a book review yet, this week's reviews may provide some inspiration: 

Reviewed by: Dusty W.
What I Read: What the Bible Says About the Future by eChristian Guides
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Excellent! Very simple, short, easy to read! I recommend ALL of the world to read; no matter what language spoken, or what faith practiced. Not to exclude readings from the whole Bible; discerning with the True Translation: The 1611 King James Version is always best! ALL must be warned while there's still time!

Reviewed by: Mea F.
What I Read: Women Who Live in Coffee Shops by Stella Pope Duarte
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Stella Pope Duarte is one of my favorite authors. She is a born and raised Phoenician. She began writing after having a dream about her father, who had passed away, and she was encouraged to write from his message. She is very proud of her culture. I have read all of her books. This book in particular was filled with wonderful short stories. The stories, locations noted and points-of-interest were very relative to me, as I too am a local. The book would be enjoyed by readers from anywhere. Each story seems as if it is perhaps a memory from days past. My favorite stories were Homeage, Mismatched Julian and Confession. Confession was great and paralleled my life growing up in church. I enjoyed being able to put the book down but never loosing my place, as each story was independent of the rest of the stories. Stella puts great substance into each story and there will be one which will sing to your heart personally. Please enjoy her other books as well. She is truly and amazing and proud author.

Reviewed by: Pat M.
What I Read: One Mile Under by Andrew Gross
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I am fond of the author Andrew Gross and his work. This book did not disappoint.
Almost from the first page, the reader is started on a fast paced journey. There is a lot of action with great descriptions of white water rafting - something I had never done - and an extremely unlikely to do -
The story also brought into play fracking and the damage it would do to the environment. It was pertinent to things happening in the U.S.
All in all, a very good book.

Reviewed by: Pat M.
What I Read: Never Die Alone by Lisa Jackson
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is one of the authors I read and I almost always enjoy her books.
This book had a little convoluted lot but I must say while I usually figure out the end before the end, this one alluded me.
It was quite suspenceful and detailed in its descriptions, especially the torture of the main character.
I would recommend this book to others - great read.

Reviewed by: Patricia M.
What I Read: Season of Fear by Brian Freeman
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is another I read, but more infrequently than my usual ones. And I normally steer clear of political dramas, with the exception of "House of Cards" and "Scandal" on television.
This book had a good story line but sometimes I found it hard to keep track of the characters.
I just goes to show that the "game of politics" can be dirty and corrupt.

Reviewed by: Maria L.
What I Read: Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Oskar Schindler was responsible for saving the lifes of many Jews, He went broke trying to many Jews. My thought on this story are that Schindler above all had a soft heart and care for people;

Reviewed by: Angela T.
What I Read: The Forgotten Sisters by Shannon Hale
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: A great series, Princess Academy, of which this is the third book. The main character, Miri, is called upon to teach three royal cast-offs living in a swamp how to become princesses, to avoid war. An empowering princess story with strong themes of education, strength, (physical and mental) and friendship.

Reviewed by: Barbara Sapp
What I Read: Tail Gait by Rita Mae Brown
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Rita Mae Brown always writes wonderful stories about the animals. I love the way she has them talking, so we understand them. She thinks up great stories, even to include stuff from history, and ties it in with the present's goings on. I just wish she could write them faster, as I always want to read her books first, even if I have several at a time. I really enjoy how she has her pets as the brains behind the outfit helping to solve the mysteries & helps keep her heroine out of trouble!

Reviewed by: Barbara Sapp
What I Read: Picked to Die by Sheila Connolly
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I love Sheila's orchard series books. She makes the little town where the heroine lives, so interesting, quaint, and full of history! I love hearing about the varieties of apples & al the things they have to do to get the crop in, She's another author I wish could get out books faster, as I love her easy style, & I like that she grabs my interest immediately, no matter how she starts out her cozies. And her recipes are fun to read, as well. Some I may just try one day!

Reviewed by: Sandra F.
What I Read: Double Down by Fern Michaels
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book is an offshoot of the Sisterhoods' series, which I read and loved every one. In this book it not about the girls but about the boys. All who are either husband or boyfriend of the girls. As with the girls they are keeping everything a secret from them. Thanks to Dennis's money they have a secured & fully functional building as a base of operations. There is love, intrigue, upsets, argument and a lot of brotherhood involved. Very good book, Hope for more.

Reviewed by: Michele J.
What I Read: Wisdom from Women in the Bible by John C. Maxwell
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book is incredible!! I loved it. I feel like I walked along side the author as he experiences what he is writting. I feel like I was there! This book seems to be written just for me. By the Creator Himself! Working through the author. I really feel this is a true experience in the authors life. It happened. Split second time also!!

Thanks to everyone who submitted a review! The last week's worth of patron input will be posted to the blog early next week.

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 4, Part 2

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 4, Part 2

Posted by Anonymous

Here's the second half of the week's book reviews! July 18 is your last chance to submit a review for this blog, so read away!

Reviewed by: Tanya N.
What I Read: Grey by E.L. James
What I Thought: What a refreshing twist inside a mans point of view falling for someone. I preferred his version over her 50 Shades of Grey. Very interested to read a story already read from another point of view. Puts a new perspective on the story.

Reviewed by: Tanya N.
What I Read: 50 Shades Darker by E.L. James
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: The basic story line is great. Imagine making 100,00.00 an hour. To be so rich and carefree with your spending. Yet being rich & powerful always creates enemies. I do wish authors would quit making women so insecure about themselves & having such a low self esteem. I do not believe that is an accurate description of most women in todays society.

Reviewed by: Tanya N.
What I Read: 50 Shades Freed by E.L. James
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Much more exciting than the other two. I found she tied all three together. Story line was very rich and intriguing. Love is a powerful emotion that can control your life. I did however not care for the start. I would have expected much more detail in the wedding and I don't care when authors time bounce. And although story line was good the climax of the book could have been prolonged. Ana is smarter than I expected.

Reviewed by: Merrilie J.
What I Read: 81 Days Below Zero by Brian Murphy
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is the account of Leon Crane who was in the Army Aircorps during W.W.II, stationed at Ladd Airfield in Alaska. He and 4 others were testing a B-24 in Dec. of 1943. The plane crashed on a remote mountain - Crane parachuted out (the only survivor)! For the next 80 days he struggled, coming near death several times. He was saved by finding an abandoned trapper's cabin, fully provisioned. Ultimately he found a wilderness couple (with 3 children) who dog sledded him to a landing strip - It was a good book to read during our Yuma 100+ humid weather!

Reviewed by: Merrilie J.
What I Read: Dead Wake by Erik Larson
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is an account of the sinking (by Torpedo) of the Lusitania, a very large ocean liner in the year 1915. There were 1,959 passengers and crewmen aboard. Of these only 764 survived. It (the ship) was attacked by a submarine captained by Walther Schwieger, an ace submariner in the German navy. This incident (and many others of similar ilk) was generally thought to be the reason for the U.S. joining the Allies in World War I, though that did not happen till the year 1917. A "subplot" of this book is the account of Pres. Wilson's wooing of Edith Galt, who he married in short order. Her role in American history is another story, which I am now interested in reading of.

Reviewed by: Mary H.
What I Read: Memories of a Dirt Road Town by Stephen Bly
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This was a light read - I enjoyed it - About a middle age woman going on an unplanned trip to a place she was at when she was ten.

Reviewed by: Mary H.
What I Read: The Mustang Breaker by Stephen Bly
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: A light summer read - The second book of a series about a middle age woman in Wyoming on vacation and her love of horses and the Lord.

Reviewed by: Martha F.
What I Read: The Fold by Peter Clines
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: It's an interesting story (in the "Mystery" category) with a lots of twist and turns - about a team of scientists has invented a device - they call it the Albuquerque Door. Using a cryptic computer equation and magnetic fields to "fold" dimensions, it shrinks distances so that a traveler can travel hundreds of feet with a single step.
It's kind of a sci-fi story with interesting characters, most of the time it was hard to put it down...

Reviewed by: Kile T. 

What I Read: Make Something Up by Chuck Palahniuk

Find it at YCLD: Here!

What I Thought: I quite enjoyed this collection of short stories. Chuck P. has a unique style & voice. He tends to push fiction to the edge. These stories are all at once poignant, sarcastic, funny, disturbing, graphic & grotesque. Adventurous readers will enjoy this book & the stories within.

Reviewed by: Carol H.

What I Read: The Fault in our Stars by John Green

Find it at YCLD: Here!

What I Thought: It was kinda sad but very good reading. I enjoyed it very much. Good book.

Reviewed by: Carol H.

What I Read: Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer

Find it at YCLD: Here!

What I Thought: I really liked the love triange with Bella, Edward, & Jacob. How they both want to protect Bella. The battles were insane, they get married, have a baby and its all good reading.

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 4, Part 1

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 4, Part 1

Posted by Anonymous

 
Summer really has Yuma County fired up for reading! We received so many book reviews this past week that they'll be split into two blog posts, the better to give each a chance to shine. Thanks for your feedback on what you've been reading!

Reviewed by: Angela T.
What I Read: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: A fantastic classic who-done-it mystery. A widow commit's suicide and rumors begin that she killed her husband and was being blackmailed about it. Her new gentleman friend is then murdered in his locked study. There are many suspects and the story is cleverly written so you are strung along and surprised at the end! This is a Hercule Poirot detective novel, whose methods are similar to Sherlock Holmes, where every minor detail is important and everyone has a secret! Highly recommend!

Reviewed by: Dusty W. 
What I Read: A Hummingbird In My House by Arnette Heidcamp
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought:  The book was very heart-warming. The author's descriptive words allowed the reader to visualize every aspect of her true story she was trying to convey. The photos were beautiful and captured the events she spoke about along the way. I, myself, AM a bird lover; as I too observe the hummingbirds in my yard! I became educated in the types of flowers to grow in one's garden to attract these tiny birds; was also informed of their diet made up of not only sugars from nectar, but protein from insects. As for now, I'll let the hummers "honor me with their presence" in the wild, and enjoy my Zebra Finches indoors!

Reviewed by: Zoraya C.
What I Read: Is it hot in here? Or is it me? by Pat Wingert, et al.
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This books very interesting for me. I helps all. And I think that is good books for more people that ist in the Menopause.
Fue muy interesante y me ayudo mucho.

Reviewed by: Zoraya C.
What I Read: El pasaje silencioso by Gail Sheehy
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Muy bueno parami es muy interesande me gusty y me servio mucho.

Reviewed by: Carol P.
What I Read: The Daughter of Zion by Bodie Thoene
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: It is very well written & characters personalities keep it interesting as does the action & the drama. There are flash backs in the form of Rachel remembering when she & her mother & other Jews were packed in cattle cars who had been promised a cup of water, & when she was separated from her mother. The book, like the rest of the Zion series is fiction based in the time of history after World War II. The history part seems to be acurate and the fictional characters are intriguing & interesting. Is a good read.

Reviewed by: Carol P.
What I Read: The Return to Zion by Bodie Thoene
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book continues with the lives of the characters of The Daughter of Zion and through their talk & actions shows their love for their fellow-man & country & their desire for the world to recognize that they still struggle after the war has ended as the Arabs try to make the world believe that it is the Jews that continue to fight & bomb. The emotions & personalities of people from both sides & the Brits/English are clearly & interestingly shown as the Jews inside the Old City no longer receive supplies of food; but stubbornly stay any way. Book is very well written.

Reviewed by: Carol P.
What I Read: The New Whole Grains Cookbook by Robin Ashbell
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Easy to follow recipes. Good explanation as to why whole grains are better for you than refined grains. Has many good recipes for a large variety of various grains; for breads & muffins not requiring yeast & with reduced sugar & what fruits are good substitutes for oil or butter. Has recipes for using whole wheat, bulgur, quinoa, couscous, oats, wild rice, barley, buckwheat, rices, rye; and Job's Tears also known as Chinese barley or hato mugi. Explains different things about the various grains, such as wild rice isn't raely a rice but is an aquatic grass that originated in North American marshes.

Reviewed by: Nancy L.
What I Read: Se una pareja feliz by Barton Goldsmith
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Este libro trate de como cambiar los habitos negativos por positivos y fortalecerlos, como la gratitud y la honestidad, necesarios para una convivencia sana y amorosa con tu pareja, comprender que simples actos. de bondad y generosidad aumentan la posibilidad de una relacion feliz y Aceptar que la felicidad esta en to bueno actitud y deceo de cambio.

Reviewed by: Nancy L.
What I Read: Tengo 50 ¿y qué? by Giselle Blondet
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Este libro es un perfecto manual que en cada etapa de tu vida. seas exitosa, te sientas realiecida, bella y disfrutando de ser lo que eres, como lo hace. la conductura de televicion Giselle Blondet, El dia que ella complio los 50 años juro que nunca dina su edad. Y dire qe los 50 años son los nuevos 30.

Reviewed by: Nancy L.
What I Read: Por que los hombres se casan con las cabronas by Sherry Argov
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Este libro trata de que antes la mujer debia complacer en todo a su pareja, Sherry propone un nuevo modelo de mujer independiente, que se valvera la mas deseable, la que el querra a toda costa conquistar y conservar: Desde las ideas sobre. el compromiso hasta la vida sexual moderna, pasando por las ventajas de la independencia financiera y los secretos. mas obscuros del generao masculino, este libro te da las nerramientas para que el se sienta afortunado de querercasorse contigo.

Reviewed by: Sara Y.
What I Read: El Quijote by Miguel de Cervantes
Find It at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Una divertida historia de un hombre que por leer tantas avanturas de caballeros, pierde la cabeza. Literalmente pierda la cabeza y se autonombra "Caballero Andante". 
Aungue el español castellano en que esta escrito es dificil de entender y se tienen que leer las subnotas, esto no le resta brillantez a las tantas aventuras vividas en una imaginacion brillante de nuestro heroe por defender lo que el considera injusticias (que solo existen en su imaginacion) o que son reales pero que son su intervencion solo se agravan.

Check the Yuma Staff Picks Blog again at the end of the week for more reviews!

The Death of Money by James Rickards

The Death of Money by James Rickards

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: José Beltrán

What I Read: The Death of Money by James Rickards

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What it’s About:  Mr. James Rickards is a seasoned financial counselor, investment banker and risk manager with over thirty years’ experience in capital markets including all aspects of portfolio management, risk management, product structure, financing, regulation and operations. Mr. Rickards' market experience is focused in alternative investing and derivatives in global markets. He is also the CIA’s Financial Threat & Asymmetric Warfare Advisor. He knows of what he speaks. Rickards warns of an imminent USA $100 trillion collapse. This Economic Alarmist takes us behind the conspiratorial scenes of current global currency wars, as only he can, he certainly has connections. Rickards says, “The US government has secretly set up a “Day After Plan” after the collapse of the dollar.” The US dollar has three strikes lined up against it. The Catastrophic triple whammy of Economic Bubbles about to burst: the Stock Market, Bond Market, and the Derivatives Market. James Rickards is also the author of Currency Wars: The Making of the Next Global Crisis,  published by Penguin/Portfolio, November 2011.

What I Thought: Rickards leaves the reader with no doubt about his worldwide financial credentials, nor his knowledge of economic theory e.g. “If (R +I) –B> [T-S] then US deficits are sustainable, Conversely if (R+I) –B <[T-S] then US deficits are not sustainable.” Rickards does not limit the scope of this book to the US, but has personal extensive experience and knowledge of the World Economic stage. Unlike the CIA World Fact Book’s dry statistical approach, Rickards minces no words. “The Russian economy is best understood as a natural resource extraction racket run by oligarchs and politicians who skim enormous amounts off the top and reinvest just enough to keep the game going.” He goes into great financial, historical detail, intelligence and analysis in his chapters on China’s New Financial Warlords, the New German Reich, and the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and even the BELLs(Bulgaria, Estonia (Skype), Latvia, and Lithuania).

The book includes extensive scholarly notes, internet addresses, and selected sources. All world economies from ancient times have competed for World Domination through the manipulation of their own and others currency. Ancient Rome, Argentina, and now the US, China, not to the exclusion of other countries, debase their currencies to make their products cheaper to other countries. Mark Twain said that Truth is stranger than fiction, because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn't.' The world banks are gambling with inflated paper money(debt) on the gaming tables of the World,US$200 trillion Stocks, US$100 trillion Bonds and US$693 trillion Derivatives. Please compare this US$993 trillion alone in debt to the measly paltry global GDP of only US$73.48 trillion dollars. Somehow countries managed to increase the global debt to GDP from 218 percent in 2000 to 266 percent in 2010.

Rickards goes to great lengths to show how external terrorists could set up terrorist financial cells to destroy the US market. Fake paper wealth debases real wealth. The author points out that the Debt /GDP (Gross Domestic Product) ratio of the United States is over the total worth of the country by about 101, not to worry, Japan’s Debt/GDP  is 243.2% of GDP and is still one of the 5 World Central Banks. Rickards is not a survivalist telling us to head for the hills.

This subject is deadly serious! However, Rickards offers an unrealistic laughable survival plan! US tourists have been caught abroad, when dollars were useless, they had to resort to bartering their jewelry. What average person can hold thousands of dollars in 20% gold, 20 % undeveloped land, 10% museum quality fine art paintings(Remington paintings?), 20% alternative private equity funds, and last but not least 30% cash. If dollars becomes as worthless as confederate dollars, not worth the paper they are printed on and lawlessness reigns supreme, might I recommend instead of a Frederic Sackrider Remington painting, a pump action Remington. This is a must read book for its rare glimpse into the naked truth of world economics.

Readalikes: Currency Wars: The Making of the Next Global Crisis by James Rickards

Or look this book up on NoveList!