Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2016 - Week 6

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2016 - Week 6

Posted by Anonymous

Wow! We have a bumper crop of new reviews for the last week of the 2016 Summer Reading Program! Thanks to everyone for sending in their reviews. We will contact the winner of the last $10 gift card later this week. 

Here are the last patron reviews of SRP 2016!

Reviewed By: Mary H.
What I Read: Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Based in Seattle, about a mom dealing with a nervous breakdown. Very funny read.

Reviewed By: Jeanette W.
What I Read: The Sackett Brand by Louis L'Amour
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: What a great book! Tell Sackett is heading west with his new bride when he is attacked, his wife murdered, and his outfit burned. He is a hunted man as he sets out to find the man who killed his wife. I love that this is a clean book with no foul language or sex. I for sure want to read more about the Sacketts.

Reviewed By: Linda P.
What I Read: Finding Jake by Bryan Reardon
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I enjoyed this book. It was a good mystery. I can't imagine what I would do if my child could not be found in the chaos of a shooting.

Reviewed By: Linda P.
What I Read: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: At first you think Ove is just an old, cranky, man who complains about everything and everyone, but by the end of the book you will wish that you could be more like Ove.

Reviewed By: Linda P.
What I Read: All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I enjoyed this book but when I was nearing the end I couldn't help feel a sense of relief to have finished the book.

Reviewed By: Tom B.
What I Read: The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book was laugh out loud funny. By going on a journey through the main historical events of the 20th century, Allan Karlsson has certainly lived an eventful, out of the ordinary, crazy life.

Reviewed By: Tom B.
What I Read: The Smoke Is Rising by Mahesh Rao
What I Thought: I was disappointed with this. I didn't think this went together as a novel. The parts telling the story of a few main characters were fragmented, but well written. But the parts that were involved with the local 'politics' were tedious.

Reviewed By: Joann B.
What I Read: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I think it's interesting that the main character, Rachel, challenges us to think about how much we assume about--and pre-judge--other people based on our limited knowledge of them. To feel pity, disgust, frustration, compassion, and so much more for one character is a rare thing.

Reviewed By: Joann B.
What I Read: The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought:  I found this book superficial and, at times, even boring.

Reviewed By: Joann B.
What I Read: All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I found it to be jumpy and often disjointed. I am not a fan of the current trend of devoting one chapter to one character and the next to another and flipping back and forth.

Reviewed By: Joann B.
What I Read: Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought:  It was a good book but, I found the orphan trains to be an interesting and horrifying time in our history.

Reviewed By: Sue H.
What I Read: Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I loved this book! It gave me a lot of information that I did not know.

Reviewed By: Sue H.
What I Read: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is a great book. It is one of those that make a person ponder what they would do in such a situation.

Reviewed By: Deb D.
What I Read: Illegal: Life and Death in Arizona's Immigration War Zone by Terry Greene Stirling
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book was written in 2010. I found it interesting that the immigration debate is still going on now in Arizona. It clearly showed the struggles of the people on both sides of the story. It was a very personal book because the stories were about real people who were interviewed by the writer. It shared stories about the lives of people in Mexico, crossing the border, their stays in Phoenix and Arizona and the return home by some either by choice or deportation.

Reviewed By: Wendy P.
What I Read: Hidden Talent by Blanca D'Arc
What I Thought: In this Sci-fi romance life changes drastically for the main character when she is found hidden in a colony of alien horse trainers. Psychic abilities are unleashed and desires are unbelievable in this alien culture.

Reviewed By: Tammy T.
What I Read: 39 Clues: Nowhere to Run by Jude Watson
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Just when Dan and Amy thought their life would return to normal, a new enemy has discovered the serum. He's trying to become the President while eliminating the kids. This was a great way to extend the series. It was a page turner and I had a hard time putting it down.

Reviewed By: Jenice H.
What I Read: Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: I was surprise how different it was from the movie. It did have some same parts but in different places. I liked it, it was like picturing another movie in my head.

Reviewed By: Jenice H.
What I Read: Under Their Sky by Margaret Peterson Haddix
What I Thought: I liked so much that I can't wait for the second book to come out. It was mysterious, adventurous, surprised me every time, wouldn't expect what would come out next.

Reviewed By: Charlotte M.
What I Read: The Martian by Andy Weir
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Very easy read. It was funny & kept me interested. There was a good amount of science to it, but it was written in a way that was easy to follow & understand.

Reviewed By: Sandra C.
What I Read: In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms by Dr. Laura Schlessinger
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Great literature! This book made me get my confidence back as a stay-at-home mom. Made me realize the importance of my presence for my family. My role as a stay-at-home mom is more valuable than any amount of money I can get at a job. I am my

Thanks again to everyone for sending in reviews this summer; having multiple perspectives on some of the same books this week was especially fun. Keep reading the Staff Picks blog all year round, and we'll open it up to patron submissions again next year!

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2016 - Week 3

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2016 - Week 3

Posted by Anonymous

Thanks to Ailyn G. for this week's review! Don't forget - you can submit your own review here for a chance to win a gift card. Every week there's a different winner!

Reviewed by: Ailyn G.
What I Read: Identical by Ellen Hopkins
Find It @ YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book details the lives of two twins that are victims of child abuse. It appears a bit sadistic at first, but it actually serves as a great eye-opener to the struggles of child abuse and mental illness. The second time I read this narrative, it was easier to see the brutality of this mental illness and how it forms part of someone's life without anyone noticing the damage it causes if left untreated.

There's still plenty of time to sign up for the Adult Summer Reading Program - reading three books, attending three library programs, or any combination of both earns you a chance to win a Kindle Fire. Plus take our "Reading Championship Challenge" for another shot at the prize. We'd love to see all of Yuma "exercising their minds" this summer by reading!

The Orion Plan by Mark Alpert

The Orion Plan by Mark Alpert

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Andrew Zollman

What I Read: The Orion Plan by Mark Alpert

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: “Scientists thought we were safe from invasion. The distance between stars is so great that it seemed impossible for even the most advanced civilizations to send a large spaceship from one star system to another. But now, a species - a planet - other than our own has found a way.

An unassuming probe from another star system lands in an empty corner of New York City and drills into the ground underneath, drawing electricity from the power lines to jumpstart its automated expansion. When it's discovered, it injects nanodevices into those people unlucky enough to come near it. The devices migrate to the brains of the victims and influence their behavior, forcing them to perform tasks that will assist the probe as it prepares for an alien colonization. When the government proves slow to react, a NASA scientist realizes he must lead the effort to stop the probe before it becomes too powerful.”  – From the Publisher

What I Thought: I have to tell you first that I haven’t read many science fiction thrillers in the past. So, I have very little background knowledge I can use to judge this book based on what I have read in other titles.

The Orion Plan piqued my interest because of the real science research the author used to write the material around his story. I enjoy reading stories that use and twist real historical events to weave a tale either mundane or fantastical. The author does a very good job of sticking to the science used in the novel and applying it to the events that unfold. However, in doing so, the story does tend to drag in parts to provide an explanation of what is being discussed. When the action does start, the start moves quickly.

I wouldn’t call this book a thriller so much as an urban contemporary science fiction story with elements of history. General thrillers are sinister and dark and suck you into the conflict that is unfolding one piece of the puzzle at a time. The Orion Plan does propel you forward and guide you along a journey but it never truly sucks you in for the ride.

The adventure and dialogue are interesting and well put-together. The characters are believable and show the many faults of humanity and how we cope with both our everyday stresses and how people respond to insurmountable obstacles.

If you would like an interesting story involving science fiction themes, a good plot, and characters you can almost relate to, then this is your read. I would give the book three stars for the story and the breakdown of the content, but I could never really get into the characters and how the author used them in the story. I did find it to be a quick read and enjoyable to the end. Make your own assumptions about the book and enjoy the adventure.

Readalikes: Prey by Michael Crichton 

Or look this book up on NoveList!

All the Old Knives by Olen Steinhauer

All the Old Knives by Olen Steinhauer

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: L. Boone

What I Read: All the Old Knives by Olen Steinhauer

Find It @YCLD: Here! 

What It's About: After years of separation, Henry and Celia meet up for dinner at a cozy restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Six years earlier, while both were CIA agents in Vienna, a horrible terrorist hijacking occurred on their watch. It could have been prevented if an agent onboard the plane had not been compromised by some unknown source inside the U.S. Embassy. Six years later, Henry is ostensibly conducting an internal investigation, and casts suspicion on Celia.

What I Thought:  The audiobook narrator, Ari Fliakos, has the perfect voice for this Hitchcockian story of old lovers and spies who seem to be having a friendly dinner to discuss an old case that ended tragically. The book’s author, Olen Steinhauer, is known for his excellent espionage thrillers and this one may be his best so far. This is amazing, considering most of the book consists of Celia and Henry discussing the events leading up to and surrounding the hijacking. Through their rich, cerebral dialogue, the story becomes unbearably suspenseful.  It leads to a thrilling, twisted ending right before the dessert is served…

Readalikes: Everything by Olen Steinhauer and The Dinner by Herman Koch.

Or look this book up on NoveList!

Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Andrew Zollman

What I Read: Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: This morning, Kady thought breaking up with Ezra was the hardest thing she’d have to do. To cut one more person from her life in the middle of nowhere. She finds out exactly how wrong she is when that same afternoon, her planet is invaded.

The year is 2575, and two rival megacorporations are at war over a planet that’s little more than a speck at the edge of the universe. Now with enemy fire raining down on them, Kady and Ezra, who aren’t on speaking terms, are forced to evacuate their home with a hostile warship in hot pursuit.

But their problems are just getting started. With damage to their flagship Alexander, they are only barely able to put distance between themselves and the last remaining enemy dreadnaught. A plague has broken out and is mutating with terrifying results; the fleet’s AI AIDAN may actually be another enemy to deal with; and nobody in charge will say what’s really going on. As Kady hacks into a web of data to find the truth, it’s clear the only person who can help her is the ex-boyfriend she swore she’d never speak to again.

Told through a fascinating dossier of hacked documents—including emails, maps, files, IMs, medical reports, interviews, and more—Illuminae is the first book in a heart-stopping trilogy about lives interrupted, the price of truth, and the courage of everyday heroes.

*Parts of this description were used from the original synopsis of the story.

What I Thought: I like to pick up new books from authors I have read in the past. I tend to avoid the synopsis and any information surrounding the story so I can be pleasantly surprised while I am reading. Illuminae, just from the title, sounds like a religious mystery or noir story about secrets and uncovering mysteries. Various definitions of the word mean to ‘shed light upon’ or ‘to generate light’ to see what is around you.

I definitely was not expecting a story as daring and crazy as Illuminae turned out to be. I was intrigued to see how far the writers would go as the story progressed from an innocent nonchalant story of boyfriend and girlfriend angst to desperate flight across space with a pursuing enemy ship, haunted by the death of loved ones, and death lurking at every corner.

The book moves fast. There are very few breaks in what is going on and just enough background and insight is provided to keep you moving without telling you what will happen next in the story. Kady’s character evolved the most and plays the biggest role in the story, and to great effect. She is pliable and forceful in the new and often horrific situations she faces while trying to save the people she loves.

I recommend this story for everyone, especially anyone interested in sci-fi thrillers involving complex character creation and plot development involving new technologies and concepts.

Readalikes: Legend (Book 1 of the Legend Series) by Marie Lu

Or look this book up on NoveList!

The Girl in the Spider's Web by David Lagercrantz

The Girl in the Spider's Web by David Lagercrantz

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Andrew Zollman

What I Read: The Girl in the Spider's Web by David Lagercrantz

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: This is the first book in a new continuation of Stieg Larsson's original Millennium series. It is an adrenaline-charged thriller, playing homage to genius-hacker Lisbeth Salander and journalist Mikael Blomkvist as they face an all-new dangerous threat and must once again join forces.

Late one night, Blomkvist receives a phone call from a trusted source claiming to have information vital to the United States. The source has been in contact with a young female super hacker—a hacker resembling someone Blomkvist knows all too well. The implications are staggering and build to a climax as events unfold. Blomkvist, in desperate need of a scoop for Millennium, and turns to Lisbeth for help. She, as usual, has her own agenda.

What I Thought: This is not Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The story was written well and it flowed from the start to finish; however, you need to have a good understanding of current technology and social events to follow the story. Much of the information presented is not explained to the reader or even expanded on as it moves.

As I said, this was a good read but it differs on many points from the original series. Because it is a continuation, there is no new worldbuilding or change in setting. You do get introduced to a few new buildings but only as scenery as events unfold. The introduction to the story's new characters was to me the only shining point of the story. August is an interesting character and is designed to connect many points in the story. The bad guys do somewhat the same, connecting many characters to charge this thriller.

Personally, if you would like a good story, I would add this to the list. But I will say it again, this is not Stieg Larsson’s work and does not read the same. It is neither as dark nor vivid as the original, but has its own strong points. If you are getting started with thrillers or like Scandinavian mystery-thrillers give Jussi Adler-Olsen or Jo Nesbo a try. Both authors write dark and disturbing intricate stories like the original series, and mysteries with compelling detectives.

Readalikes: Read and support the original author of the series: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Or look this book up on NoveList!

Broken Monsters by Lauren Beukes

Broken Monsters by Lauren Beukes

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Sherri Levek

 What I Read: Broken Monsters by Lauren Beukes

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: Broken Monsters is a crime/fantasy/suspense novel set in Detroit, Michigan. A gruesome killing is discovered and Detroit Police Detective Gabrielle Versado is given the lead on the case, while trying to maintain a relationship with her teenage daughter, Layla, who is keeping her own secrets.  Writer Jonno has recently arrived in Detroit from New York City in the hopes of discovering a story amidst the ruin and decay of the once vibrant city.  Homeless ex-convict T.K. only wants to help his friends and forget his troubled past.  Broken Monsters is the story of what happens when this diverse group of characters are forced to confront their worst fears.

 What I Thought: Lauren Beukes’ Broken Monsters is both character and plot driven.  I became increasingly pulled into the story, which is many-layered and suspenseful.  The characters are diverse - gritty, professional, artsy, naive, compassionate, and arrogant - a combination that reflects the city of Detroit’s struggle to survive.  Beukes is critical of our current obsession with social media, which is given a large role in her novel and while at times this becomes a bit preachy, it doesn’t ruin the story.  Overall, I found this to be an edge-of-your-seat read that I found trouble putting down.

 Readalikes: The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes, Niceville by Carsten Stroud, and The Boy Who Drew Monsters by Keith Donohue

 Or look this book up on NoveList!

The Drafter by Kim Harrison

The Drafter by Kim Harrison

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Andrew Zollman

What I Read: The Drafter by Kim Harrison

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: In this first novel in the Peri Reed Chronicles, Kim Harrison touches on a new frontier in science fiction with an edge-of-your-seat thriller filled with spies and time travel that will keep you guessing until the very end.

In the near future, Peri Reed is an Opti Soldier trained to complete U.S. government missions others would never dream of being able to complete. The year is 2030, the setting is Detroit. Peri is double-crossed by the person she loved and betrayed by the covert government organization that trained her to use her body as a weapon.  Peri Reed has become a renegade on the run. "Don't forgive and never forget" has always been Peri's creed.

But her day job makes it difficult: she is a drafter, possessed of a rare, invaluable skill for altering time, yet destined to forget both the history she changed and the history she rewrote. When Peri discovers her name is on a list of corrupt operatives, she realizes that her own life has been manipulated by the agency. Her memory of the previous three years erased, she joins forces with a mysterious rogue soldier in a deadly race to piece together the truth about her fateful final task. Her motto has always been only to kill those who kill her first. But with nothing but intuition to guide her, will she have to break her own rule to survive?

What I Thought: Kim Harrison’s new novel The Drafter is a fast paced techno-thriller that pushes the boundary of morality and understanding of the world around you. Peri Reed is a very strong character with a very unique problem. The people around her as using her, and because she can draft she doesn’t know who she can trust.

Peri can take care of herself in a fight, but at times can seem fragile and broken. She’s been used by both sides for so long that her life has become a fragmented mess. The book will keep pulling you in different directions, but your feelings toward other characters in the story will be immediately grounded by their actions.

Kim Harrison doesn’t pull any punches and even if you think you know where the story is going, you don’t have all of the details. The Peri Reed Chronicles reminds me a little bit of the movie Time Cop without the horrible acting or the need for a fancy device or machine to make the process work. The characters mesh well together and provide support for Peri throughout the story through their actions.

If you like sci-fi thrillers with a strong female protagonist, but don’t like space ships or far futures, I would recommend this book to you. If you do get to read the book, I would recommend Kim Harrison’s first adult fiction Hollows Series. You won’t be disappointed.

Readalikes: Agenda 21 by Glenn Beck or Amped by Daniel H. Wilson

Or look this book up on NoveList!

The Dark Side of the Screen: Film Noir by Foster Hirsch

The Dark Side of the Screen: Film Noir by Foster Hirsch

Posted by Anonymous

Reviewed by: Jim Patrick

What I Read: The Dark Side of the Screen: Film Noir by Foster Hirsch

Find It @YCLD: Here!

What It's About: This ebook is a 2008 revision of a classic study of film noir that was first published in 1981.  Noir is known for its dark, shadowy visual style and effects, and Hirsch includes well-chosen photographs to illustrate his analysis of various filmmaking techniques.  A chapter titled “The Literary Background” discusses the impact of the “hardboiled” school of crime fiction on film noir.  Writers such as Raymond Chandler, Cornell Woolrich, and James M. Cain are discussed, including the film adaptations of their novels and short stories.  Another chapter is titled “The Cinematic Background.”  The influence of German Expressionism is discussed, particularly in the work of émigré directors such as Fritz Lang, Robert Siodmak, and Billy Wilder.  Chapters are also devoted to “The Noir Actor” and “The Noir Director.”  Hirsch critiques iconic noir actors such as Humphrey Bogart, Robert Mitchum, Barbara Stanwyck, and Gloria Grahame.  In addition to the directors mentioned previously, the book also surveys the noir-related work of Otto Preminger, Orson Welles, Jules Dassin, and others.

What I Thought: Foster Hirsch discusses film noir with a sweeping command of the cinematic genre/style/movement that flourished in Hollywood from the mid-forties to the mid-fifties.  His writing is both instructive and engaging.  The only negative aspect of reading this book in ebook format is the size and quality of the many photographs which accompany (and enhance) the text.  On my 6-inch Kindle screen these photographs were very small indeed.  Nonetheless, this is a most enjoyable and useful book for students and fans of classic films.  Watch some film noir—the library has several classic examples on DVD—and use this ebook as your guide!

Readalikes: Out of the Shadows by Gene D. Phillips; Encylopedia of Film Noir by Geoff Mayer

Or look this book up on NoveList!

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!

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 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 3

Patron Picks! Summer Reading 2015 - Week 3

Posted by Anonymous

The Summer Reading Program is halfway through, but Yuma County's readers are more active than ever! There's still plenty of time to turn in a book review at any Yuma County Library for a chance to win a gift card - and to be featured on this blog!

Reviewed by: Dusty W.
What I Read: Thoughts from Within by Bonnie Moehle
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought:  I thought that this book was a very easy read. Nice little "self-help" book for those looking for a little boost in their lives. I appreciate how the author conveys her ideas for others in order to live stress-free lives without imposing upon their upbringing and moral values and even religious beliefs! I'd recommend this book to anyone especially if they are grounded in their belief/faith; although I do not believe in hypnotherapy, I DO believe we all possess (or have the ability to) the Power of A Higher Being to help us lead peaceful, loving, productive lives!

Reviewed by: Diane N.
What I Read: Moving Target by J.A. Jance
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Another great story from Jance. I love Sister Anselm. I hope she is in many more storyline to come. I love how each story stands alone, yet builds from prior ones. Well done again.

Reviewed by: Diane N.
What I Read: Cold Betrayal by J.A. Jance
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Great Read. I love getting 2 stories in one. What great way to bring Az. to life. I had to break out the Rand McNalley. Well done.

Reviewed by: Martha C.
What I Read: The Missing Piece by Kevin Egan
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: It is about a trial for a collection of silver. When things go wrong at the first trial the characters go on with their lives until the trial is brought back. I thought the book was predictable. There were too many characters involved and I had trouble remembering everyone's rolls. Once the story delved deeper I was more engrosed and I wanted to know who finally got ownership of the silver. It had a happy ending and the bad guys were dealt with. I would not recommend this book.

Reviewed by: Martha C.
What I Read: Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book is about a new bride trying to fit into a much different world than she has ever known. She is the second wife of a wealthy man and soon finds out all is not as it seems. I enjoyed this book! I could not put it down! I was enchanted by the way Mrs. de Winter had to adjust to her new surroundings. When we finally learn about the first wife, it is a sad tale, but has a true love story to overpower it. I don't think I had even heard about this classic before but I'm glad I have finished it.

Reviewed by: Martha C.
What I Read: Innocence by Dean Koontz
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book was really interesting. It was frustrating when things weren't revealed early enough and I felt like some secrets were mentioned but never fully explained. I like that the two main characters were not your average people and were good. I would describe the story as bizzarre. It kept my attention because the secrets always felt just out of my reach. I would recommend this book with a small warning.

Reviewed by: Merrilie J.
What I Read: The Independence of Miss Mary Bennet by Colleen McCullough
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Ms McCullough is one of my favorite authors, and I've always enjoyed reading books about the English upper class in the early 1800's. This book did not disappoint. The premise is the "coming out" of spinsterhood of the 3rd sister in the Bennet family - sisters Elizabeth and Jane married into the Darcy family of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Mary had been tasked with caring for their mother, a tedious old lady. Mary spent her time reading "good" books and newspapers - she became enthused about doing charity work among the poor. When Mom died Mary was 38 and set out to make her Mark on the world.

Reviewed by: Merrilie J.
What I Read: Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This book is what I call the Wonder Bread of reading material - mind fluff - but every so often I enjoy a book of this type. Janet Evanovich is an amusing writer, good for several (many) chuckles. It will be quite some time before I'm ready to read another episode of Stephanie Plum, bounty hunter.

Reviewed by: Merrilie J. 
What I Read: HUGHES by Richard Hack
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is a biography of Howard Hughes, said to be America's first Billionaire.
What I think: is that for a man whose original wealth stemmed from his father's oil-drilling bit (at the time the U.S. was beginning it's love affair with automobiles) he never really grew up or matured. True, he had an innovative brain which made improvements and innovations in the aircraft industry - but he was also enamored with the movie industry and young, beautiful Starletts. He died a lonely death, in his own filth (but still RICH!

Reviewed by: Joy M.
What I Read: Unintended Consequences by Stuart Woods
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Stone Barrington wakes up in Paris not knowing how he got there. The race is on for my favorite attorney. Stuart Woods uses great dialogue and presents a fast read that you can't put down. His character development is masterful. Each book is like visiting with old friends and catching up. Suggest that anyone new to Woods should start at the early books. You will find good friends, exciting action, not a lot of sex, and stories you can't put down, as stated earlier.

Reviewed by: Michael H.
What I Read: Saxon Series (The Burning Land, Death of Kings, The Pagan Lord) by Bernard Cornwell
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Great series of historical fiction. Tells the story of Uhtred & his friends & family during the times of King Alfred & his family. It is a great series - it has drama, action, intrigue, battles, love stories, family heritage & all done in a time of the forming of England under Alfred the Great & his family.

Reviewed by: Michael H.
What I Read: Inheritance Cycle (Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, Inheritance) by Christopher Paolini
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is a story of Eragon & how he finds a dragon egg & then how he & the dragon become essential in defeating the Empire The place is Alagaesia. The dragon is a female named Saphira. They encounter the various races of Alagaesia (elves, dwarves, werecats, & others) in a desperate fight with King Galbatorix. This is a coming of age tale & it is an interesting & compelling series.

Reviewed by: Jean W.
What I Read: Hell Gate by Linda Fairstein
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: This is the second book by Linda Fairstein that I have read.
It was really interesting and kept me so interested that I finished it in less than 6 hours (different days) It had a surprise ending that always delights me. Since I am originally from upstate New York, I enjoyed reading & learning about the places mentioned in the Manhattan area. I look forward to reading more books by this author. Hopefully her future books will have some of these characters. I was impressed by the main characters.

Reviewed by: Jimmie D.
What I Read: Several books by Sandra Brown
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Sandra Brown is an amazing authoress. She creates a novel that holds you spellbound throughout the entire issue. What is really awesome about her, she has never told the same plot to any of her novels. It takes extreme concentration and imagination to create so many novels with entirely different ideas about a single topic.

Reviewed by: Patricia F.
What I Read: The Assassin by Clive Cussler
Find it at YCLD: Here!
What I Thought: Interesting story about Standard Oil by a rich man who wanted to own every oil fields in the world and didn't care who stood in his way wanting power & profit to line his pockets.

Have a wonderful holiday, and happy reading!