L V
The story's start was too drawn out. I predicted the ending soon after and just wished the narrator would have provided us with more info on Emily's servant. His silence and lack of backstory intrigued me more than Emily's story!
The story's start was too drawn out. I predicted the ending soon after and just wished the narrator would have provided us with more info on Emily's servant. His silence and lack of backstory intrigued me more than Emily's story!
Answered a promptWhat are your favorite books of all time?
* I received a copy through a First Reads giveaway*
After a mundane and low-paying job as a typist, Vera , a nice Jewish girl from humble beginnings models jewelry on the side to make ends meet. They dress her up in the nicest clothes and most expensive jewelry and have her model in the swankiest hotels. Vera dreams of living the high life and longs for the glitz and glamour of it all. She gets more than she bargains for when she meets and falls in love with two rival Chicago gangsters.
The carefree days of the Jazz Age and sinister Prohibition crime wave come to life in this read. At first Vera seems like a one dimensional character, but when she is forced to do for herself, she becomes a force to be reckoned with. This one is more a 3 star read, but I'll give it a 4 for the realistic depiction of how Chicago used to be in the Roaring Twenties.
* I received a copy through a First Reads giveaway*
After a mundane and low-paying job as a typist, Vera , a nice Jewish girl from humble beginnings models jewelry on the side to make ends meet. They dress her up in the nicest clothes and most expensive jewelry and have her model in the swankiest hotels. Vera dreams of living the high life and longs for the glitz and glamour of it all. She gets more than she bargains for when she meets and falls in love with two rival Chicago gangsters.
The carefree days of the Jazz Age and sinister Prohibition crime wave come to life in this read. At first Vera seems like a one dimensional character, but when she is forced to do for herself, she becomes a force to be reckoned with. This one is more a 3 star read, but I'll give it a 4 for the realistic depiction of how Chicago used to be in the Roaring Twenties.
Added to listBest Book Coverswith 15 books.
This book would translate well into a comedic film. It's packed with hilarious situations and a well-developed cast of characters. I loved each and every one of the characters and can't decide on a favorite. The book is a lengthy one and the story doesn't really pick up until you're a few chapters in. It's definitely worth sticking with and reading from cover to cover.
This book would translate well into a comedic film. It's packed with hilarious situations and a well-developed cast of characters. I loved each and every one of the characters and can't decide on a favorite. The book is a lengthy one and the story doesn't really pick up until you're a few chapters in. It's definitely worth sticking with and reading from cover to cover.
A beautifully told story of a boy who faces so many challenges at school because of his appearance. He's really a cool kid but people keep him at arms length - that is until someone finally breaks from the pack and shows him some decency. Not all follow suit at once, but it goes to show that sometimes it only takes one small act of kindness to turn things around. Such a simple idea, yet such a complex concept for most.
A beautifully told story of a boy who faces so many challenges at school because of his appearance. He's really a cool kid but people keep him at arms length - that is until someone finally breaks from the pack and shows him some decency. Not all follow suit at once, but it goes to show that sometimes it only takes one small act of kindness to turn things around. Such a simple idea, yet such a complex concept for most.
The premise of this fictional novel is based on what the author claims to be a historical fact in which a Northern Cheyenne chief, in hopes to assimilate his people and finally bring peace between the tribe and the U.S. gov't, proposes to gift the U.S. 1,000 horses in exchange for 1,000 white women. Whether this is true or not (I couldn't find any evidence to support the author's claim), the story is a fascinating tale of the Native people's perseverance in the face of all the painful challenges dealt to them, as well as an insightful look of how the assimilation program might have shaped our world today. The book was engaging from beginning to end – so much so that I have taken up an interest in learning more about the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Crow. I didn't want the story to end and miss the characters dearly.
The premise of this fictional novel is based on what the author claims to be a historical fact in which a Northern Cheyenne chief, in hopes to assimilate his people and finally bring peace between the tribe and the U.S. gov't, proposes to gift the U.S. 1,000 horses in exchange for 1,000 white women. Whether this is true or not (I couldn't find any evidence to support the author's claim), the story is a fascinating tale of the Native people's perseverance in the face of all the painful challenges dealt to them, as well as an insightful look of how the assimilation program might have shaped our world today. The book was engaging from beginning to end – so much so that I have taken up an interest in learning more about the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Crow. I didn't want the story to end and miss the characters dearly.
This book would translate well into a comedic film. It's packed with hilarious situations and a well-developed cast of characters. I loved each and every one of the characters and can't decide on a favorite. The book is a lengthy one and the story doesn't really pick up until you're a few chapters in. It's definitely worth sticking with and reading from cover to cover.
This book would translate well into a comedic film. It's packed with hilarious situations and a well-developed cast of characters. I loved each and every one of the characters and can't decide on a favorite. The book is a lengthy one and the story doesn't really pick up until you're a few chapters in. It's definitely worth sticking with and reading from cover to cover.
It's scary to think you know someone only to wake up one day and see that person for who he/she really is. The lengths some of the characters went through to get what they felt they deserved were twisted.
It's scary to think you know someone only to wake up one day and see that person for who he/she really is. The lengths some of the characters went through to get what they felt they deserved were twisted.
I was very young the first time I read this so I thought I'd give it another shot. I enjoyed it as much as I did the first time around, however, the changes that happen to Nettie during her last year or so before she reunites with Celie are not as believable as the other events that take place throughout the story. And though her letters to Celie remain about the same length throughout, the last few somehow feel rushed and not as detailed. With that said, whether in the book or on the big screen, I find it oh so touching when the sisters finally reunite. And I was very pleased with how all of the characters find some inner peace that provides them with the strength to be more accepting of one another and appreciate the small things in life. I can't ever pass by purple flowers or a purple field and not think of Shug, Celie, and Sofia!
I was very young the first time I read this so I thought I'd give it another shot. I enjoyed it as much as I did the first time around, however, the changes that happen to Nettie during her last year or so before she reunites with Celie are not as believable as the other events that take place throughout the story. And though her letters to Celie remain about the same length throughout, the last few somehow feel rushed and not as detailed. With that said, whether in the book or on the big screen, I find it oh so touching when the sisters finally reunite. And I was very pleased with how all of the characters find some inner peace that provides them with the strength to be more accepting of one another and appreciate the small things in life. I can't ever pass by purple flowers or a purple field and not think of Shug, Celie, and Sofia!
Oof. What a powerful read.
When doing the right thing doesn’t seem like an option for most because the powers that be are too evil and mighty and can make one’s existence pure hell, that’s when you discover what you’re truly made of. For “was there any point in being alive without helping one another? Was it possible to carry on along through all the years, the decades, through an entire life, without once being brave enough to go against what was there and yet call yourself a Christian, and face yourself in the mirror?”
We all need to channel our inner Furlongs. We need more Bill Furlongs in the world. Make this book a mandatory daily reading.
Oof. What a powerful read.
When doing the right thing doesn’t seem like an option for most because the powers that be are too evil and mighty and can make one’s existence pure hell, that’s when you discover what you’re truly made of. For “was there any point in being alive without helping one another? Was it possible to carry on along through all the years, the decades, through an entire life, without once being brave enough to go against what was there and yet call yourself a Christian, and face yourself in the mirror?”
We all need to channel our inner Furlongs. We need more Bill Furlongs in the world. Make this book a mandatory daily reading.
Added to listBest Book Coverswith 13 books.
I’m not sure I believe Mr. A. Wolf’s version of events - too many holes in his story. I think we’re gonna need to speak to Grandma Wolf and verify her birth date. Nice illustrations and a fun read for little ones who have a good (and darkish) sense of humor.
I’m not sure I believe Mr. A. Wolf’s version of events - too many holes in his story. I think we’re gonna need to speak to Grandma Wolf and verify her birth date. Nice illustrations and a fun read for little ones who have a good (and darkish) sense of humor.
Not sure what I was expecting. The beginning started off strong and it seemed like there was a to-be revealed purpose to the siblings going back to the House. Things then take a shift and the story kind of loses a little something, as do the characters. But maybe that’s the point the author is trying to get across. That life has its highs and lows. And to quote Danny, “disappointment comes from expectation.” My takeaway: so long as you have at least one person who truly loves you unconditionally and is always there for you, then you’re always home.
Not sure what I was expecting. The beginning started off strong and it seemed like there was a to-be revealed purpose to the siblings going back to the House. Things then take a shift and the story kind of loses a little something, as do the characters. But maybe that’s the point the author is trying to get across. That life has its highs and lows. And to quote Danny, “disappointment comes from expectation.” My takeaway: so long as you have at least one person who truly loves you unconditionally and is always there for you, then you’re always home.
I’m not sure I believe Mr. A. Wolf’s version of events - too many holes in his story. I think we’re gonna need to speak to Grandma Wolf and verify her birth date. Nice illustrations and a fun read for little ones who have a good (and darkish) sense of humor.
I’m not sure I believe Mr. A. Wolf’s version of events - too many holes in his story. I think we’re gonna need to speak to Grandma Wolf and verify her birth date. Nice illustrations and a fun read for little ones who have a good (and darkish) sense of humor.
Answered a promptWhat are your favorite books of all time?
This is a beautiful account of a NYC writer and her correspondences with some staff from an antique bookshop based in London. The letter writing begins on October 5, 1949 and continues for over 20 years. The relationship that develops between the letter writers blossoms. As they begin to feel more comfortable with one another, the dialogue becomes quite witty and amusing. What I loved most was getting a glimpse into how the times gradually change through the eyes of the writers (from QE II's coronation to Beatle-mania, etc.).
The story is quite moving without meaning to be – a true testament to the fact that you do not have to live near someone or even know them to show him/her decency and kindness. It also made me feel a little guilty of how out of touch I am with people that I care for deeply, despite the luxury of such technological advancements such as email and video-conferencing! The work has everything I love in a story – the only thing I would have liked is maybe a couple of snapshots of some of the friends Hanff made along the way.
This is a beautiful account of a NYC writer and her correspondences with some staff from an antique bookshop based in London. The letter writing begins on October 5, 1949 and continues for over 20 years. The relationship that develops between the letter writers blossoms. As they begin to feel more comfortable with one another, the dialogue becomes quite witty and amusing. What I loved most was getting a glimpse into how the times gradually change through the eyes of the writers (from QE II's coronation to Beatle-mania, etc.).
The story is quite moving without meaning to be – a true testament to the fact that you do not have to live near someone or even know them to show him/her decency and kindness. It also made me feel a little guilty of how out of touch I am with people that I care for deeply, despite the luxury of such technological advancements such as email and video-conferencing! The work has everything I love in a story – the only thing I would have liked is maybe a couple of snapshots of some of the friends Hanff made along the way.
The podcast is way better.
Many years ago I came across the film of the same name, I almost changed the channel, but upon seeing Baby Jane played by Bette Davis, wearing insane makeup and laughing with that throaty smoker’s voice, I dropped the remote and watched the rest of the film. I thought it was the most insane thing I had ever seen, and loved every minute of it. I loved the film even more when I learned through older members of my family that it was rumored that Davis and Crawford couldn’t stand each other.
Mitch Douglas, Farrell’s literary agent, confirms the rumors in this book’s introduction: <i>Henry Farrell and the Story of Baby Jane</i>. Both actresses agreed to take the parts with the intention of mopping the floor with the other. On set, Davis “accidentally” kicks Crawford. Crawford retaliates by adding weights under her clothes, causing Davis’ back to give during a scene in which she has to carry and drag Crawford. Later, the actresses were to star in another film together. By this time, Crawford was married to the president of Pepsi. So what does Bette do? Before Crawford arrives, she gets the crew to replace all the Pepsi machines with Coca-Cola machines. She even takes pictures with some of the crew drinking Coke.
No matter to what extreme their animosity ran for each other, the final film product shows nothing but professionalism on both their parts. Knowing about their personal rivalries and reading the book cover to cover, I can’t imagine who else might play the roles of the Hudson sisters. For those of you who have only seen the film and are curious, the book is pretty much the same as the film, with very minor differences – such as Blanche is blonde and Baby Jane has dark hair. In the book, the neighbor watches the old Blanche Hudson movies with her neighbor, not her daughter.
Long story short: If you love the movie, you’ll love the book!
Many years ago I came across the film of the same name, I almost changed the channel, but upon seeing Baby Jane played by Bette Davis, wearing insane makeup and laughing with that throaty smoker’s voice, I dropped the remote and watched the rest of the film. I thought it was the most insane thing I had ever seen, and loved every minute of it. I loved the film even more when I learned through older members of my family that it was rumored that Davis and Crawford couldn’t stand each other.
Mitch Douglas, Farrell’s literary agent, confirms the rumors in this book’s introduction: <i>Henry Farrell and the Story of Baby Jane</i>. Both actresses agreed to take the parts with the intention of mopping the floor with the other. On set, Davis “accidentally” kicks Crawford. Crawford retaliates by adding weights under her clothes, causing Davis’ back to give during a scene in which she has to carry and drag Crawford. Later, the actresses were to star in another film together. By this time, Crawford was married to the president of Pepsi. So what does Bette do? Before Crawford arrives, she gets the crew to replace all the Pepsi machines with Coca-Cola machines. She even takes pictures with some of the crew drinking Coke.
No matter to what extreme their animosity ran for each other, the final film product shows nothing but professionalism on both their parts. Knowing about their personal rivalries and reading the book cover to cover, I can’t imagine who else might play the roles of the Hudson sisters. For those of you who have only seen the film and are curious, the book is pretty much the same as the film, with very minor differences – such as Blanche is blonde and Baby Jane has dark hair. In the book, the neighbor watches the old Blanche Hudson movies with her neighbor, not her daughter.
Long story short: If you love the movie, you’ll love the book!