mmmm good books

Just finished an amazing YA (Young Adult) book by Kirby Larson recommended by my friend, Tina. Hattie Big Sky made me cry, real sobs at how the book ends because I was so involved, I loved her character. I especially loved how it mirrored our societal problems of today. WW II is in full swing and prejudices are running high against Germans living in the United States at that time. Anything German is considered anti-American...hmmm...seems so current with our lovely US after 9/11. Funny how history continues to repeat itself over and over when we don't learn to be more accepting of the world. Bless the whole world and especially Barack Obama and his family in their continued efforts to raise the bar on dignity and grace.

Iowa -2008Children's choice

I just finished the lovely book, Singing Hands by Delia Ray, an Iowa author. This book opens up the world of Gussie as she struggles with two deaf parents and the difficulties of growing up as a preacher's daughter as well in the 1950's. The book catches Gussie at her most vulnerable as she tries to find her path out of living always on the straight and narrow. She hums during her father's service, she spends money meant to go to the church and she hungers after a friendship that brings her nothing but misery. Of course, she finds her way out with the help of her parents and the two ladies who room with the family. You will have to read the book to see the delightful manner in which she begins to figure out who she really is...