Bobbi

Bryan Stevenson's battle for those on death row and those with life-long sentences are eye-opening and heart-wrenching. Several of the cases highlighted really showcase the need for judicial reform in the US. Tough read that challenges you to see the judicial system as is and not as how it works on TV.

Definitely recommended reading for everyone, not just those interested in racial equality or criminal justice.

I have never read anything by Steinbeck before-shame I know. This collection has given me a great introduction to his work. I can't wait to delve into more of Steinbeck's work.

I really enjoyed “The Flight” and “The Red Pony” from this collection. “The Flight” reminded me of why I love Westerns-the sense of place and the fight for survival.

I usually read with an intent to give away the book once I'm done. I'm hanging on to this one for a rare reread.

This easy picture book is a fantastic tale of Ben told in black/white illustrations. Ben's love of the trumpet and his lingering at the Jazz Club is a great story. Loved the illustrations and it would be a great introduction to jazz music and trumpets.

This story of siblings, birthday parties, and lollipops was bright and colorful. The story didn't have the magic I typically look for in children's stories. However, this would be good for those with siblings to help teach empathy and compassion.

I am convinced I had already read this book and Goodreads was right-it's been 4 years. It's always nice to spend time with Inspector Pekkala.

Pekkala and Kirov, his assistant, are hot on the trail of a found painting , The Shepard, and who might have initially stolen it. There's a chemist specializing in nerve agents and his brother who's part of cult known as the Skoptsy. Throw in Rasputin, the Romanovs, and Stalin and you have a thrilling ride through history.

I usually don't like alternating time lines but this one works really well. You have to know how the painting ended up out of the hands of the Tsar and into a crypt in Germany. And I liked the back and forth aspect-learn a little past and then learn how Pekkala is going to move forward with his investigation.

Overall, I love this series and found that even though this was probably a reread, I really enjoyed the journey.