ALLEN, SARAH ADDISON., Garden spells. (Published: 2007)
An enchanting debut novel about a homecoming, a magical garden and love.
The Waverleys have always been outsiders especially in their hometown, Bascom, North Carolina. Their garden has a reputation, famous for the apple tree that bears prophetic fruit, and its edible flowers, imbued with special powers.
Claire Waverley, a caterer prepares dishes made with her mystical plants. Her elderly cousin, Evanelle distributes unexpected gifts whose uses become uncannily clear. Claire's rebellious sister, Sydney, had fled Bascom, abandoning Claire as their own mother had years before.
When Sydney and her young daughter suddenly return home and Tyler Hughes moves in next door, Claire's quiet life is turned upside down; along with the protective barrier she has constructed around her heart!
I eagerly await Sarah Addison Allen's next novel.
Reviewer: Nella Pickup
BINCHY, MAEVE., Circle of friends. (Published: 1990)
This book is set in Dublin in the 1960s. It follows the lives of a group of university students as they mature through university life. Friendship, love, family, money, betrayal and jealousy are entwined in a well paced plot. Also available on DVD and will appeal to many age groups.
Reviewer: Karen
BINCHY, MAEVE., Whitethorn woods. (Published: 2006)
In Maeve Binchy's latest novel, a delightful kaleidoscope of characters each tells their own story with the mystical statue of St Ann and the well in Whitethorn Woods as the central theme. The construction of a bypass road is threatening to destroy the well. Some are in favour of the development, some are against, and the parish priest wishes to remain neutral. Binchy's wonderful storytelling techniques let the voice of each character come through as though they are right here in your living room telling you about their interconnected lives, the village of Rossmore and what the well means to them.
Reviewer: Marion
BINCHY, MAEVE., Whitethorn woods. (Published: 2006)
Not as enjoyable as earlier Maeve Binchy novels. I felt it was like a collection of short stories, with so many varied characters that I had to flip back and forth to sort out the connections. There were several unfinished plots which left me wondering how some characters fared and the St Ann's site, variously described as a cave/well/grotto, is still a bit unclear to the reader. An OK read, but not absorbing like her usual great tales.
Reviewer: A. I.
BOYD, WILLIAM., Restless. (Published: 2006)
Restless captures the drama of World War II and paints a remarkable portrait of a female spy. A great story full of suspense, emotion and history.
Reviewer: S. C.
BUTCHER, JIM., Storm front. (Published: c2000)
Harry Dresden is a private investigator in Chicago. Work is slow and the bills are mounting, when he receives a call from the police. There's been a murder and only Harry's talents for those really special cases can help, for Harry is a wizard as well. As mobsters and demons complicate his life, will Harry be able to solve the crime before he becomes a victim?
Told in a style like Dashiell Hammett's The Maltese falcon, Jim Butcher's Storm front is a fast paced novel that doesn't slow down. Humour and mystery combined with magic make this first novel an excellent read for those who also like Laurell Hamilton and Tanya Huff.
Reviewer: Derek
BYRSKI, LIZ., Belly dancing for beginners. (Published: 2006)
Though not quite as optimistic as her earlier novels, this is still a great read; warm-hearted, moving and often funny. Gayle, Sonia annd Marissa meet at a hen party. Marissa is a belly dancing teacher. Gayle and Sonia impulsively join a class and find that much more than muscle tone changes. The men in their lives also face challenges!
Reviewer: Nella
CASWELL, BRIAN, 1954- , Double exposure. (Published: 2005)
This book starts off simply with insights into the two lives of twin boys. They may be identical in looks, but they aren't in personality, both leading contrasting lives. When you add a young mother and her two year old son living in fear of her ex boyfriend, and a sixteen year old prostitute facing manslaughter charges for a crime she didn't commit, things change for the boys as they each fall in love. The narration is written in first person, alternating between the main characters, giving a good all round perspective. Powerful imagery illustrates underlying themes and ideas that lead up to the ending. It takes on an unexpected and unpredictable twist which will leave you shocked. This sophisticatedly structured psychological thriller is a must read.
Reviewer: Stephanie
CHAN, KYLIE., White tiger. (Published: 2006)
A fast-paced, highly interesting book involving demons, Chinese gods and plenty of sword fights. Emma accepts an offer to work full time for a rich businessman John Chen. She has no idea what she just agreed to. Highly recommended.
Reviewer: Felicia
COLLIER, CATRIN., One last summer. (Published: 2007)
Love story set in Germany in World War 2. It is told through the diary of Charlotte von Datski, a former German aristocrat who in old age returnns to her homeland and all she left behind.
Reviewer: Karen M.
CONDON, BILL, 1949- , Dare devils. (Published: 2007)
Dare Devils is a book about friendship, fun, dating and a list of things to do in your life. A teenager by the name of Jack meets and becomes close friends of the new kid Tony Thornton (aka: Thorns) and his life changes dramatically, as he is dying of a heart problem. A happy and sad book.
Reviewer: Joel Harbottle
DEAVER, JEFFERY., Speaking in tongues. (Published: 1995)
Once again I was held in suspense from his writing. I wasn't prepared for the sudden twist; I was sure I knew the end! An excellent author who writes to keep you in suspense and awaiting further intrigue. All the characters are realistically portrayed. Absolutely believable!
Reviewer: M. J.
DIBDIN, MICHAEL., Vendetta. (Published: 1999)
A detective thriller with a difference. The hero, Aurelio Zen is a very human Italian policeman, certainly not the usual invulnerable superhero, who fumbles his way to the solution of the mystery. The story is also an acute commentary on the venality of Italian politicians and bureaucrats.
Reviewer: Michael Ingram
DONATI, SARA., Tied to the tracks. (Published: 2006)
Award winning but tiny documentary company Tied to the tracks receives an offer they can't refuse. They are to journey to a Georgia's Ogilvie College to make a documentary about Miss Zula Bragg, the matriarch of the lone, token black family and first African American teacher at the college. Partners Angie Mangiamele, Rivera Rosenblum, and Tony Russo must work for the English department's boss and Ogilvie's favourite son, John Grant. John's upcoming wedding to the town's equally favourite daughter, Caroline Rose, may be derailed once news of John and Angie's previous love affair gets out. One of Caroline's sisters has an affair with Tony, Rivera loves Caroline and Angie uncovers Miss Zula's secrets. Not quite the soap opera it may sound, is is told with an edgy sharp dialogue, and wonderful humourous touches.
Reviewer: Nella
EDMONDSON, ELIZABETH., The villa in Italy. (Published: 2006)
Four strangers are summoned to the grand but neglected Villa Dante on the Italian coast. Each of them has been named in a will, but not one of them knows their benefactress, Beatrice Malaspina. Delia is an opera singer robbed of her voice by illness; George is an idealistic scientist who cannot face what his skills have help create; Marjorie, a starving author has writer's block; and Lucius, ostensibly in control but whose personal life and values have been almost destroyed by a wartime action. While they try to work out their connection to Beatrice and themselves, the villa begins to work its magic. With its faded frescoes, overgrown garden and magnificent mediaeval tower, it is unlike anywhere they have been before. Slowly, four people who have gone to great lengths to hide their troubles find that hope is possible after all.
This is the first novel by Edmondson I've read; it won't be the last.
Reviewer: Nella
FFORDE, JASPER., The Eyre affair. (Published: 2001)
The Eyre affair is cleverly entertaining and some may call it a literary thriller where books are central to crimes. References to classics and humorous names for characters put it way out there and make it a good holiday read.
Reviewer: Elizabeth
FLANAGAN, RICHARD, 1961- , The unknown terrorist. (Published: 2006)
I suspect Richard Flanagan wrote The Unknown Terrorist as an attempt to better understand how and why the accepted view of Australia as a tolerant, easygoing society changed into the selfish, greedy and fearful country it has become. For that reason this novel is soon likely to appear on book lists for students studying contemporary Australian history and politics. The setting is Sydney, post September 11 and the novel's female protagonist is a pole dancer, whose stage name is the Doll. Not your typical heroine, but she serves to remind readers of the night-time world that exists in all large, cosmopolitian cities. A world that is generally acknowledged and tolerated by mainstream society, provided the underclass who largely populate it don't draw attention to themselves. When it does, the extent of the hysterical fear and loathing of anyone who is "other" is evident. And the innocent victim is the Doll. Dismissed as unimportant by corrupt government and corporate officials desperate to save their own skins, she is suddenly thrust into the unforgiving media spotlight as a terrorist suspect. If you enjoy reading crime, adventure and suspense I recommend this well-plotted novel as a beautifully crafted expose of how helpless individuals are, should those in positions of power be determined to find them guilty. The ending is a chilling and damning indictment of what can happen if individuals are pushed too far, and how our media is persuaded to airbrush the truth to ensure the community remains ignorant of the facts.
Reviewer: A. L-B.
FORBES, COLIN., The Savage Gorge. (Published: 2006)
Not as well written as his previous novels. The opening was very patchy. The setting did not do Colin Forbes justice as the geographical researches for previous novels did. The story line was disjointed and there are references to events, decisions and information which do not connect. There appeared to be gaps in the text, and although the usual conclusion of good winning over evil occurred, the rest of the story did not hand together. While the murders were solved, there were no obvious conclusions that the events would be world shattering. A disappointment for Forbes' fans.
Reviewer: P. B.
GEORGE, ELIZABETH., What came before he shot her. (Published: 2006)
Written as a prequel to With no one as witness, readers should not expect another Lynley and Havers' mystery.
Three mixed race siblings are dumped by their feckless grandmother on the North Kensington doorstep of their unsuspecting Aunt. This grim novel charts the downward spiral of an ultimate dysfunctional family. The eldest and youngest of the children have already sustained their own particular types of damage. The middle child, Toby, does his futile best to protect his brother and sister from further harm. Torment, physical harm ad life threatening danger stalk these hapless children at every turn, in the form of low-life "ganstas" and organised gangs of thugs.
I found this book extremely difficult to read, in that I had to keep taking lengthy pauses in order to brace myself for the next onslaught of tensions. The hopeless plight of these powerless children, who are beyond the reach of any real help, and who fall through the cracks of society, was incredibly confronting and emotional.
A tragic tale, wonderfully written, and compellingly awful!
Reviewer: Jane W.
GREGORY, PHILIPPA., Earthly joys. (Published: 1998)
This is a wonderful mixture of history and large scale formal gardening. In the 17th century, John Tredescant was gardener to wily Sir Robert Cecil the younger, and later to the dissolute and powerful Duke of Buckingham. John trod a fine line between loyalty to his master and loyalty to his God. In those troubled times one false step could have meant his death. He gathered unusual plants from many parts of the world and earned a reputation for a knowledge of rare and beautiful plants, and skill at displaying them to their best advantage. John set up a museum of curiosities ranging from coins to carved ivories, crystals and stones, the body of a mermaid, and the skull of a unicorn. Known as the Ark, it became the "must see" destination of the time. Even the king and queen visited it.
His son (also John) followed in his footsteps as a superb gardener, but with a wife from a Baptist family whose religious views he shared, he found it more difficult to accept the deviant ways and extravagances of the Royal Court as his father had.
This is a relatively long book but I was sorry when I turned the final page.
Reviewer: M.J.B.
GREGSON, J. M. (James Michael)., Too much of water. (Published: 2005)
This is a Lambert and Hook mystery. These two detectives set about solving the mysterious death of a university student and her husband. Although the characters are quite well defined, some relationships are not fully explored or explained. The plot is well constructed but the story is not very plausible. None of the characters is particularly endearing, especially Lambert and Hook. A book only to be read once.
Reviewer: G. H.
HALLIGAN, MARION., The apricot colonel. (Published: 2006)
Set in Canberra and the south coast of NSW before the Iraq war began, this light-hearted murder mystery keeps you guessing. Bottled apricots, book editing, lies, secrets and romance combine to make this contemporary novel a delight to read.
Reviewer: Marion
KIERKEGAARD, SOREN, 1813 - 1855., Diary of a secucer. (Published: 1992)
Combine romantic seduction and one of the deepest thinkers in human history, and you get The diary of a seducer by Soren Kierkegaard. This slim booklet is full of surprises; imagine a realm of love where there is hardly any physical touch or sex no flowers, chocolates, candle-lit dinners or schmaltz! Stephanic Dowrick would hate it! This is idealistic romance, nineteenth-century style. Go beyond stale hackneyed poetry, abandon Byron and Keats, and prepare for an experiment in conceptual seduction.
Presented is a diary of the seducer Johann, by Victor Eremita (one of Kierkegaard's pseudonyms that is used for views other than his highest). Johann's days are inspired in the pursuit of the "interesting". That is his eternal ideal. Love is the most fertile ground of the "interesting"; so he is drawn to young girls as subjects of his own artistic imagination. But rather than this delve into sensuous self-indulgence of the worst sort, the priorities stand firmly: the concept and experience of love.
This sounds all fine and rosy, but is actually sordid in a sense. What does every female treasure most but her womanhood? Her whole being is wrapped up in enjoyment of her sexuality. For a man to teach her how to be feminine seems an apostasy. Doesn't a woman know how best to be a woman? This is where the immorality begins. Every girl Johann meets is a living portrait painted by his ideas and he in turn, the adoring mirror reflecting a goddess to herself. She develops by his suggestion. He pursues his creation leading her further into a glorification of love. Like a gardener guarding an innocent newly-opened rose, he nurtures her sense of poetry and dreaming without wishing to leave even his signature in the corner: To poeticise oneself into a girl is an art; to poeticise oneself out of her a masterpiece. Yet the latter depends essentially on the former.
The aim is not to leave a girl conquered, but to strengthen her own wings (mental powers). This is without sarcasm, but an unusual and beneficial kind of deception. And one realises that the reader is the girl, being seduced by Kierkegaard to realise the infinite faces of Nature.
Reviewer: Kelly Jones
KING, STEPHEN, 1947-, Dark tower series.
I've read all seven books in this science fiction series and I think all were extremely well written and enjoyable to read. I would definitely read them all again. I also think this series is Stephen King's best work.
Reviewer: Mary Cragg
KINSELLA, SOPHIE., Confessions of a shopaholic. (Published: 2001)
Sophie Kinsella writes an interestingly enough twist to the life of a shopaholic. Recommended for teenage girls. Also published as The secret dreamworld of a shopaholic.
Reviewer: Felicia
KOOMSON, DOROTHY., Marshmallows for breakfast. (Published: 2007)
Another good chic lit but with a more serious side. Addictive reading. Her previous novel My best friend's girls was equally as good. Had you laughing one minute and crying the next!
Reviewer: Karen C.
LANGLEY, LEE., Changes of address. (Published: 1987)
Shortlisted for the Hawthornden Prize. Full of black humour as the child and adult voices recount life with divorced, beautiful, drunken, penniless mother and her attempts to capture men. Setting: India, 1940s. Autobiographical, short. Highly recommended.
Reviewer: Pamela
LENNOX, MARION., Legacy of shadows. (Published: 1995)
A typical heart warming romance where a young girl meets up with a former boyfriend and after many trials and tribulations finds she still loves him; and in the end marries him. A nice story set in Australia.
Reviewer: Hazel Dawe
MATTHEWS, CAROLE., The chocolate lovers' club. (Published: 2007)
The Chocolate Lovers' Club has four members, all very different women with one thing in common: they can't resist chocolate. Lucy Lombard, a disaster prone temp regularly meets the three other addicts, Autumn, Nadia and Chantal. Together they form The Chocolate Lovers' Club which meets in the aptly named Chocolate Heaven. Add a cheating boyfriend who promises he'll change, a brother with very scary friends, a highly desirable flirtatious boss, a gambling husband and a loveless marriage -- all good reasons to meet and have some chocolate sustenance. Hilarious chick lit!.
Reviewer: Nella
MONTEFIORE, SANTA., Gypsy Madonna. (Published: 2006)
Mischa's dying mother gives a Titian painting The gypsy Madonna to the Metropolitan Museum. He knows nothing about it and as he discovers, he knows very little about her. Branded and publicly humiliated as a collaborator, Anouk fiercely protects her mute son Mischa. When an American singer comes to their village, they follow him to a new life in New Jersey. When he apparently abandons them, Anouk leaves her friends and new life for the anonymity of New York. Following the trail of the painting, Mischa returns to the French village. There he finds himself.
This is the third novel I've read by Santa Montefiore. Each is different but all combine an epic romance with a tantalising mystery. A satisfying read!
Reviewer: Nella
MONTEFIORE, SANTA., Sea of lost love. (Published: 2007)
The Montague family are summering at Pendrift Hall, their Cornwall home. When Celestria's father, Monty, disappears, an apparent suicide, she decides to find out the truth. What she discovers is that, not only has he lost all their money, but he is not the man she believed him to be. Her search takes her to Italy where she meets others who have been caught up in her father's duplicity. Readers who have enjoyed Montefiour's Gypsy and the Madonna will enjoy this romance.
Reviewer: Nella
MORGAN, JUDE., An accomplished woman. (Published: 2007)
An intelligent historical romance. Lydia Templeton is a clever and contented 30 year old spinster in 18th century England. Nine years ago, she rejected Lewis Durrant, her father's neighbour, a sensible yet taciturn man. Lydia is prevailed upon, much against her better judgement, to accompany her Godmother's young ward, Phoebe, to Bath. Lydia despises Bath and all the "tabbies" therein, and resigns herself to stultifying boredom. However, Phoebe's equal emotional attachment to two different young suitors soon provides Lydia with some knotty problems to work on, and her finely tuned sense of irony delivers plenty of fun in the observation of the ghastly Mr. & Mrs. Vawse and the almost equally dreadful mother of one of Phoebe's swains. You can be in no doubt of the final outcome (in regard to Lydia), but Phoebe provides an unexpected twist or two toward the end.
Reviewer: Jane
PATTERSON, JAMES, 1947- , Violets are blue. (Published: 2001)
James Patterson keeps readers on the edge of their seats with this electrifying thriller. Detective Alex Cross must solve a series of bizarre murders while being stalked by the Mastermind, a nemesis from his past. This fast-paced thriller is hard to put down and is an exciting chapter in the Alex Cross series.
Reviewer: Kylie Embury
PELLEGRINO, NICKY., The gypsy tearoom. (Published: 2007)
This delightful summer read is set in a small fishing village in southern Italy. Raffaella, the town beauty, marries her childhood sweetheart, son of the town's most prosperous merchant. Within a year, she is a widow and her mother-in-law is spreading malicious gossip about her.
The town's seven priests decide to erect a staue to bring visitors and much needed cash to the town. The fishermen are opposed and the town is divided. As the cook to the engineer running this major project, Rafaella is inadvertently caught between the two factions.
This easy-to-read story is about small town gossips, mysteries of the families, delicious Italian food and lush descriptions of the scenery. Savour it.
Reviewer: Nella P.
PRADHAN, MONICA., The Hindi-Bindi club. (Published: 2007)
There is a lot of Indian fiction to be found on the shelves, and much of it is very good.
This is no exception. I was expecting a bit of a light chick lit read with this one, and it is in some places, but generally it is a very good read.
It is told from the perspective of 3 Indian born mothers now living in the United States, and their 3 American born daughters. It is a lovely mix of Indian traditions and the new life in the U.S. The mothers tell their stories of what it was like growing up in India and what is is like for them now. The mothers try hard to understand their children's lives and the younger generation seem to be living the good life but following some Indian traditions.
It is a battle sometimes for both generations but the story is told well and we, as the reader, want to know how each woman copes with this inward battle.
If you enjoy Indian fiction, or enjoy a family saga with an edge to it, this is well worth a read.
Reviewer: Angie Lawrence
RAGG, MARK., Dickinson papers: a funny tender love story. (Published: 2006)
A literary thriller, a tale of poetic justice and an intriguing love story! An exhibition of papers of the poet Emily Dickinson arrives in Sydney and mysteriously disappears. Single dad, Jock, follows the story and becomes fascinated by the beautiful curator, Lola. Lola and Jock both have broken hearts and Lola's life in unnecessarily criticised by a disagreeable mother. Jock and Lola reach out by letter, email and the occassional encounter. When the thief sends the police clues marked on Sydney road maps, Jock is drawn into the hunt. Decipher the clues, discount the red herrings, loathe the mother, despair at the inept smugness of the insurance inspector/policeman and dare to hope that Jock will find the exhibition and win Lola's heart.
Reviewer: Nella
ROBB, J. D., Naked in death. (Published: 1995)
The first in an exciting series, Naked in death introduces us to tough, New York cop Eve Dallas. Set in 2059, the series is very believable, and not "out there" as futuristic novels can be. Extremely readable with fantastic characters! You won't want to put this down! It's lucky there are 25 more!
Reviewer: Kylie
ROSE, HEATHER., The butterfly man. (Published: 2005)
This is a fictionalised story of the future of Lord Lucan who allegedly murdered his children's nanny in England 1974 and disappeared the same night. Mostly set in Tasmania, it is a beautiful story which invites the reader to think beyond what we have been told by the media, and to think that the story could actually be possible. Maybe.
Reviewer: Carol Easton
SAVAGE, ANGELA., Behind the night bazaar. (Published: 2006)
This detective story is Angela Savage's first novel and features Jane Keeney PI who is based in Thailand. The author lived and worked in Thailand for some years and her immersion in the country and its ways provides a secure backdrop to the story. Jane inadvertently becomes caught up in a vicious murder and the seamier side of life in Thailand, in particular the exploitation of vulnerable locals by westerners. The moral right of Australia to interfere in the justice system of another country is an interesting aspect of the exciting ending.
Reviewer: Prue
STOUT, MIRA., One thousand chestnut trees. (Published: 1997)
A moving and exciting book covering a family's history in Korea and the USA in the twentieth century. My ignorance of Korea shamed me; the book both enlightened and entertained. Highly recommended!
Reviewer: Barbara Wood
TREMAYNE, PETER, 1943- , A prayer for the damned. (Published: 2006)
Like historical novels, crime, charismatic characters? Like learning about ancient cultures, societies where equality, truth and justice play their part? Read Sister Fidelma novels; well written, authentically researched by an expert, the author. Logical, intriguing. A very good read. This one complex.
Reviewer: Doreen Gregson
WALTERS, MINETTE., The devil's feather. (Published: 2005)
The devil's feather is a rich tapestry of characters and events interwoven together with Minette Walter's fastidious attention to detail, ruthless crime in a war torn country, one person with the courage to question what is almost invisible; but at what cost to herself, her friends and family?
I have read each of Minette Walter's books and this one was so good, it was all over in two days!
Reviewer: Kim Sutton
WICK, LORI., The pursuit. (Published: 2003)
An historical novel, characters are well developed, family story set in England, last in a trilogy; dialogue is natural, some unpredictable moments in a gentle romance; high ideals realised, happy conclusion; enjoyable, easy read suitable for 15+ years, specially for those "soft hearts", out-there mums, daughters, aunts and grans!
Reviewer: P. W.
WILLIS, SARAH., The sound of us. (Published: 2005)
This gentle and heartfelt book is almost a page turner. Alice is a childless, white-haired deaf sign language interpreter who is content with her solo life in Cleveland, Ohio. She volunteers to be a foster carer for a six year old hearing girl, Larissa, who is in difficult circumstances. The writer weaves sensitive and understanding portraits of all her characters, including Alice's deaf clients the teenage students Ed and Shaun, and Larissa's mother Michelle. The beautiful way in which Alice uses simple signing to encourage Larissa to talk will resonate with anyone familiar with the beauty of sign language. Cat lovers will applaud the role of Sampson, Alice's cat, in Larissa's healing.
Reviewer: Jane Wilson
ZAHN, TIMOTHY., Star Wars: Allegiance. (Published: c2007)
He's back! For readers of the Star Wars Expanded Universe novels, a new book by Timothy Zahn is almost the next best thing to a new Star Wars film. And Zahn has delivered as exceptionally as usual. His latest novel Allegiance asks a question fans have been asking each other since the first film came out in '77: How evil was Palpatine's Empire? Zahn explores this in two ways: through the steadfast loyalty of Emperor's Hand Mara Jade and through the eyes of the renegade stormtrooper Daric LaRone who is still shaken by the Empire's destruction of Alderaan.
Our favourite droids are also there, along with Luke Skywalker, still a starry-eyed farm boy making eyes at the Princess; Han Solo who is still not willing to commit to the Rebellion, and Princess Leia who maintains a stormy liaison with Han. Not to be forgotten is Darth Vader who for some reason is jealous of Mara; and emperor Palpatine who calmly moves and abuses all his chess pieces on the giant board which is the galaxy. A must-read for fans!
Reviewer: Melissa Legrand
Behind the song: the stories of 100 great pop and rock classics / Heatley, Michael. (Published: 1998)
a one page essay on a hundred well-known songs, going back to the fifties. Some are just a short run-down of the singer's careers, but others are interesting anecdotes concerning the writing and recording.
Reviewer: Jess
Behind the veil: an Australian nurse in Saudi Arabia / Laube, Lydia, 1948- (Published: 1991) 610.73 LAU
Laube's expertise as a nurse prompts her to sign on for a year working in Medina in Saudi Arabia. Her nursing experience in other parts of the world has not prepared the author for the life she is to lead in this closed society. She tells her story from the prospective of a westener and a female. She deals sympathetically with fellow workers and hospital patients.
An excellent book dealing with a topical issue...what makes Saudi Arabia tick!
Reviewer: G. H.
Bound for Vietnam / Laube, Lydia. (Published: 1999) 915.97 LAU
Linda Laube is indeed an intrepid traveller. This book plots her travels through China by ship and train to Vietnam. The author travels on a limited budget which often results in her staying in accommodation which is very basic, even by Chinese standards. Laube is very personable and this enables her to relate well to the wide variety of people she meets along the way. She presents her travels in a highly readable and entertaining format. Anyone who has visited China and Vietnam will be able to relate to her adventures. An excellent book!
Reviewer: G. H.
Bronte's story: tears, trials and triumphs: a personal battle with anorexia / Cullis, Bronte. (Published: 2004) 616.85262 CUL
Bronte Cullis is a remarkable, courageous young woman who fought anorexia nervosa and won. It is a story of endurance, strength and hope, of a woman who overcame a life-threatening eating disorder who went on to establish a clinic of her own in Melbourne. It shows that people can overcome this disorder with a little belief and support.
Very inspirational for young women in particular.
Reviewer: Melissa Maher
The colonel of Tamarkan: Philip Toosey and the bridge on the River Kwai / Summers, Julie. (Published: 2006) 940.547252 TOO
A recent publication, this book tells the life story of WWII British veteran, Philip Toosey and his eventual capture as a prisoner of war to the Japanese and his care of the soldiers under his command. The film The Bridge on the River Kwai and starring Alec Guiness is based on Toosey, and the author highlights the difference between the film and reality. Details of his eventual return to England and the continued concern Toosey showed to his army comrades until his own death, makes interesting reading.
Reviewer: M. S.
The country cook: 100 ways to home-cooked heaven. / Bell, Annie. (Published: 2007) 641.5 BEL
For everybody who just loves a good cook-up, this book will cater for those looking for recipes to suit family's or just wanting a seasonal traditional meal. Real country cooking at its best; wholesome winter minestrone soup or family cottage pie; and if you like fresh vegetables there is New potato, roasted red onion cashew and tarragon salad; and who could go past a delicious dessert, Italian trifle, followed by chocolate fruit charlotte? Yummy...my mouth is already watering just thinking about these wonderful recipes!
Reviewer: Elaine
Desert flower: the extraordinary life of a desert nomad / Dirie, Waris. (Published: 1999) 920 DIR
This is the inspirational true story of young Somalian woman, Waris Dirie. She went through unimaginable horrors as a child, witnessed horror on a daily basis, but lived to tell her tale, to give hope to others like her, and show us what hard work truly is!
Reviewer: Melissa Mahr
Diplomatic baggage: the adventures of a trailing spouse / Keenan, Brigid, 1939- (Published: 2005) 920 KEE
The adventures!!...of the wife of a European Union diplomat travelling with children, nannies and pets, from Brussels to Nepal to Trinidad, Barbados, India, Syria and then Kazakhstan. A terrific read with lots of laughs and just a couple of tears!
Reviewer: S. T.
Emergency sex and other desperate measures: a true story from hell on earth / Cain, Kenneth. (Published: c2004) 341.584 CAI
This has to be the most revealing and truthful presentation of life in the "real world", presented by award winning journalists who had chosed to assist mankind following massive slaughter and human savagery. About the best book by far, I can remember reading!
It is the broken diary of 3 persons who become friends, does not follow a central theme of excitement and intrigue; just the plain truths of the conniving, betrayal and corruption by UN authorities under whose name a million souls were promised protection, but in fact, were delivered to their slaughterers. And the UN lauds their achievements! Ken is awarded in October 2000, a Fellowship at the Council on Foreign Relations, where he talks to "Clintonites" in striped suits about what he saw of their "assertive multilateralism" policy. Military and intelligence listen and want more details, while diplomats and policy specialists are dismissive because they already know everything and push their censored garbage onto us via politicians and media.
It should be a MUST READ, and I rate it 9/10, without really knowing how a book gets 10/10!
Reviewer: Bob Liebmann
Flush: a biography / Woolf, Virginia, 1982 - 1941. (Published: 1983) 823.91 WOO
A gem in wolf's clothing! Books and dogs...I am unashamedly besotted by both and rarely without either. So, when encountering a well-written edition of the one featuring a well-bred example of the other, the temptation is all but irresistible. Not that all doggy books are to be applauded or enjoyed! Some are mawkish, others cruel, and yet others poorly constructed. Flush is none of those things!
Flush, in fact, was the beloved companion of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, before and after the famous elopement, sharing her life in both Wimpole Street and Florence. Flush is also the title of that famed pedigree cocker spaniel's biography, written by Virginia Woolf.
I am not likely to curry favour in the literary world by admitting that Mrs. Woolf and I have never really got on. Oh, we tried! Having loved the television adaptation of her novel To the lighthouse, I attempted the book but soon gave up, finding it far too introspective and self-indulgent, though beautifully written. No such problems with Flush; meticulous research, studding prose, sensitive handling of ideas and emotions and a challenging use of vocabulary. I don't know about you, but I adore books that send me scurrying for the dictionary and since "Contumely" and "Marmoreal" don't tend to feature in my day-to-day conversation, this volume was no exception.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Ba to her friends and family, did not live in a paperless society and was rarely without a pen in her hand. Many collections of her letters and papers have been published and it was often from these that Virginia Woolf quoted to describe the poet's feelings and Flush's reactions on many an occasion. For instance, the petted spaniel was not immediately a full paid-up member of the Robert Browning fan-club. He was jealous of his mistress' suitor, felt usurped and surplus to requirement; and he said so, as only a dog can, with his teeth! Flush was also kidnapped and held to ransom on four occasions, experiencing the seamier side of London life first-paw.
The book chronicles Flush's life from his early days before Ba, his first meeting with the poet, the courtship, elopement and flight to Florence, even a return trip to London, with a great deal more besides and in between. You feel you get to know him, Elizabeth and Robert, Wilson, their maid, even Baby Browning when he came along; but you get to know them through Flush and from his point of view.
I heard a tiny snippet of Flush read on the radio when I was at boarding-school and had been longing to read it for years; my chance finally came last month. If, like me, you share your life with one or more persons with paws, as well as enjoying a fine read, Flush is for you. I hope you find him as charming as I did.
Reviewer: Elaine Harris, Afternoon Show Presenter, ABC Northern Tasmania.
A fortune may be made...Launceston's 19th century breweries / Paterson, Jai, 1954- (Published: 2007) 663.30994611 PAT
This is the second in a series of books on local history published by the Friends of the Library, Launceston. Jai traces the history of ten breweries in Launceston from William Barnes' Port Dalrymple Brewery established in 1824 to William Henry Abbott's Phoenix Brewery set up in 1891, and the short-lived 20th century Union Brewery whish is better known as the Thyne Building. James Boag and Son's Esk Brewery is the only one which survives today. The hard work of the enterprising men, and one woman, who hoped to make a fortune from slaking the thirst of Launceston's growing population makes for interesting reading.
Reviewer: Marion
A friend like Henry: the remarkable true story of an autistic boy and the dog that unlocked his world / Gardner, Nuala. (Published: 2007) 616.85882 GAR
A happy ending true story of courage in a family beset by autism, society rejection and mind boggling ignorance. This book is for anyone wishing to gain some understanding of autism, or support with any mental illness. It will give hope and admiration for the family portrayed and for many others.
Reviewer: Doreen Gregson
A game of our own: the origins of Australian football / Blainey, Geoffrey. (Published: 1990) 796.336 BLA
An insightful and interesting 'read', seemingly capturing the spirit of an evolving Melbourne sporting culture and of our own game! I wonder if Blainey could have further discussed the influence of indigenous Australians on Tom Wills and hence that of the ancient, Aboriginal ball game marngrook on Australian football.
Reviewer: James M.
Good morning Hanoi: a year on the airwaves in the new Vietnam / Finlay, Iain, 1935- (Published: 2006) 915.97 FIN
The Australian authors (Finlay & Trish Clark) relate their 15 months working in Hanoi as volunteers assigned to the Voice of Vietnam radio network. Living and working with Vietnamese allowed the writers to gain an insight into the culture of the country, in particular the role played by the Communist Party in all facets of people's lives. The reader is given a glimpse into a world that is not seen by the tourist!
Reviewer: G. H.
Health, wealth and tribulation: Launceston's Cataract Gorge / Richards, Paul A C. (Published: 2007)
994.611 RIC
Several well-known local people have been involved in the compilation of this fascinating book exploring the icon gorge in the heart of Launceston. Topics from the geology, fauna, flora, aboriginal inhabitants and various aspects of European settlement including convicts, industries, art, bridges, tourism, leisure and recreation are covered. A must read for all those who are interested in the development of the gorge into the popular place it is today.
Reviewer: Marion Sargent
Hooked: fly-fishing through Russia / Montaigne, Fen. (Published: 1998) 799.124 FEN
Well written story about a man's journey into communist Russia during the transition to democracy. This documentary fashion genre is well illustrated and easy to relate to through the popular sport-fly-fishing; and to discover what the Russians think about! Is most illuminating!
Reviewer: Roy Edmond
Horse owners guide to natural hoof care: the barefoot alternative to horseshoeing / Jackson, Jaime. (Published: c2002) 636.10833 JAC
This is a simple book about a revolutionary process. If you have a horse, pony, donkey or mule; if your equine suffers with foot problems or you don't know how to care for its feet; or even if you have a lucky horse with no foot problems, you need this book. It will change your life, and your horse!
In 320 pages, Jaime Jackson tells you why and how your horse can go barefoot and how you can do it yourself. Everything you need to know is in there together with over 300 photos and numerous diagrams to illustrate techniques, horses in action and the anatomy of the hoof.
Virtually every problem a hoof can have is covered in this informative, well-written book along with a new approach to keeping and feeding equines. There's a whole chapter on horse boots to help make the transition. Your horse can be happier, healthier and better behaved if you follow Jaime's advice and make the move to "barefootedness". Several other natural hoof care practitioners who are part of the growing movement to barefoot horses share their success stories with you.
Jaime Jackson has 25 years experience in caring for horses' hooves and brings a wealth of knowledge to a new approach to this very old task. All this is wrapped in his obvious love and respect for all equines.
Reviewer: Annemaree Woodward
Life on air: memoirs of a broadcaster / Attenborough, David, 1926- (Published: 2002) 590.92 ATT
This is a delightful and engaging book. It chronicles the author's BBC career and world wide journeys which began in the 1950s in the days of black and white television. Wildlife programmes were made in TV studios in those days. Attenborough and a colleague hit upon the radical idea of including short film sequences showing animals' habitats as well as showing off the creatures in the studio. His first series, Zoo Quest was born. In those days it was not possible to film in a dark forest and the sound tape had to be spliced into the film tape. Sometimes sound was dubbed from recordings kept by the BBC sound library.
The book is not about Attenborough's personal life and that seems unnecessary. His passion for his life's work shines through every page. In his early animal collecting days he devoted an entire room of his house to animals, and his wife was a gentle and understanding wildlife carer. Few will realise that Attenborough was a controller of BBC2 in the 1960s, and at one time the (albeit reluctant!) producer of the Queen's Christmas message.
Reviewer: Jane Wilson
Living history / Clinton, Hillary Rodham. (Published: 2003) 973.929 CLI
This is very much a story about Hillary Clinton by Hillary Clinton. Although she gives the reader an insight into the extent of her power in the White House, as well as reiterating the various roles she played in shaping domestic legislation, the personal side of her character still remains hidden. She is obviously aware that her role as First Lady was not an end of a political journey, but for her, the start of a much bigger one; and therefore, she is conscious of the need to portray herself as a strong, not vulnerable, insightful not easily led, and with a capacity to become a world leader. She is conscious of the fact that as a woman she is a role model for all women throughout the world, especially the developing world. An excellent book.
Reviewer: G. H.
McCarthy's bar: a journey of discovery in Ireland / McCarthy, Pete (Peter Charles McCarthy Robinson). (Published: 2000) 914.15 MCC
A laugh-out-aloud book so embarrassing to read on the bus. Perfect for anyone with Irish affiliations or interested in anything Irish. Includes visiting every bar bearing his surname, ancient monuments guarded by not so fearsome farm animals and B&Bs where he became adroit at ducking ham sandwiches!
Reviewer: Susanne
McFarlane's history of north east Tasmania / MacFarlane, W. H. & Beswick, John (Richard John. (Published: 2007) 994.68 MAC
Rev. McFarlane's articles on the history of the North East (previously published in the North Eastern Advertiser newspaper) have long been recognised as a well written, knowledgeable and interesting comment on the social history of the area. John Beswick's editing and reprinting of this icon is a superb addition to the local histories of worth and North East Tasmania. Whether the reader is a student of history, an interested local or a curious visitor, this book published in 2007, is well worth reading and would make a welcome addition to any bookshelf or bedside table. While the style is such that it can be read like a novel, John's usual meticulous research is very evident and reliable.
Reviewer: Alma McKay
Miriam's song: a memoir / Mathabane, Miriam, 1969- (Published: c2000) 920 MAT
This is a powerful story of growing up and coming of age in the notorious black township of Alexandra in South Africa during the horror years of apartheid, before and after the release of Nelson Mandela. As told to her brother Johannes (Mark) Mathabane (author of Kaffir boy), this book vividly describes the hardships of overwhelming poverty, segregation and oppression experienced by black people, the squalor of the shanty town whose population swells from 400,000 to an estimated million people, the political struggles and the lawlessness and violence of white police against those who are black, of black against black. Spine chilling and beyond our life's experience!
And this is Miriam's story, of her dream, faith, courage and determination to succeed at school, matriculate, and go to university to be a "passionate" nurse. She and her son, born of rape, have that opportunity when brother Mark and his American wife Gail pay for tickets to the USA. Truly inspirational!
Reviewer: S. B.
Morris & Co. / Menz, Christopher, 1958- (Published: c2002) 745.40941 MEN
This is a beautiful large book published by the Art Gallery of South Australia. This gallery has the largest collection of William Morris furnishings outside Britain. The book details William Morris' life and work and there are beautiful full colour plates throughtout. Most of the items in the South Australian collection were gifted to the Art Gallery by the Barr Smith family who furnished their houses in South Australia directly from the William Morris catalogue. A definite read for anyone interested in textiles and a lovely read for anyone else.
Reviewer: Sharon
Mustn't grumble / Bennett, Joe, 1957- (Published: 2006) 914.1 BEN
Anyone who feels they have left their heart in the country of their childhood will relate to this book. Through Joe Bennett's eyes, we simultaneously visit the England of today and the England he left eighteen years ago. It's an amusing yet seriously poignant read, reflecting how places "progress" in time, forcing our adult selves to forever cherish, yet in many instances wave goodbye, our childhood memories. I felt both informed and sad as it portrays some shocking insights into today's society in England and, indeed, anywhere.
Reviewer: Helen Frampton
My desert kingdom: finding a life in Saudi Arabia / Koolmees, Jill. (Published: c2004) 915.38 KOO
A fascinating glimpse of life behind the veil in Saudi Arabia. Although Jill Koolmees writes from a European perspective, she still manages to capture aspects of Saudi society that is not available to the tourist or casual traveller. Her story from a Saudi woman's point of view allows the reader to understand, even though it is a measured amount, a culture that is often at odds with western values. Koolmees gives a voice to women who are often marginalised by their own society. An excellent book.
Reviewer: G. H.
Plague species: is it in our genes? / Morrison, Reg. (Published; 2003) 599.93 MOR
Building on the work of people like Jarrod Diamond, Richard Dawkins and E.O.Wilson, Morrison explores the idea that humans are just like other animal species and prone to plague behaviour. Morrison looks at the genetic basis for the behaviour and the likely consequences for life on earth. This book is both enlightening and disturbing.
Reviewer: Ted
Prince Eddy: the king Britain never had / Cook, Andrew. (Published: 2006) 941.081 ALB
Between Edward VII and George V there could have been another king of Great Britain....Prince Albert Victor. A royal figure who has fundamentally disappeared from history because he carked it before he had a chance to ascend to the British throne in the late 19th century.
Most people seem to remember this character as a potential 'Jack the Ripper' suspect; however, Andrew Cook has been the first biographer, I can recall, to present a mostly well rounded vision of the fella.
His PR hasn't been good; gay, stupid, listless, ungainly, a murderer, hopelessly romantic, and Cook deals with these perceptions or realities with detailed historical evidence to support a view that this lost figure of history had a bit more substance to his personality than commonly believed.
By the way, for those royal tragics like me, Prince Albert Victor's fiance went on to marry his brother and became that gorgon fantastique known as Queen Mary!
Reviewer: Garry Conroy-Cooper
Princess Margaret: a life unravelled / Heald, Tim. (Published: 2007) 929.72 MAR
The cover of this book promised delights and a contemporary approach; however the author failed to keep me enthralled. The book should have been called "a life unrevealled". Tedious, gossipy and uninspirational. Try again!
Reviewer: Garry Conroy-Cooper
Red dust: a path through China / Ma, Jian. (Published: 2001) 915.1 MAJ
This part memoir, part travelogue records the trials and tribulations of Ma Jian as he treks the wide plains, sacred mountains and teaming cities of his homeland. Ma Jian exposes the reader to a China that is off limits to the tourist. Ma Jian battles the various language barriers, the weather and authority as he travels for 3 years the length and breadth of China. This is an insightful expose of a country that has come a long way; but for many of its citizens, it has a long road yet to travel! An excellent book.
Reviewer: G. H.
Reunion in Barsaloi / Hofmann, Corinne. (Published: 2006) 305.8965 HOF
The sequel to The white Masai is just as fascinating as Corinne Hofmann's first book about her experiences living with a warrior in the Kenyan "bush". After escaping with her daughter fourteen years earlier, Corinne, her publisher and a photographer return to meet up with her African family and friends. They re-visit the village, mission, hospital and other places that had figured so prominently in her life. Corinne was relieved that they were welcomed so warmly. Her vivid account of the various reunions and meetings that took place provides the reader with an insight into the bonds she had with the people that she had left behind. She describes the changes that have occurred and reflects upon the slowly disappearing traditional way of life.
The book was translated from the German by Peter Millar.
Reviewer: Marion
Round Ireland with a fridge / Hawks, Tony. (Published 1998) 914.15 HAW
You may have seen the author Tony Hawks on the ABC TV programme Grumpy Old Men. However, he is not too grumpy in this book; in fact, he is very funny. Round Ireland with a fridge is a tale of one man's trip around Ireland, toting a bar bridge behind him. He embarks on this hitchhiking journey due to a 100 pound bet with a mate, and along the way meets some very interesting people; and he and his fridge have some strange adventures!
Reviewer: Liz
Serious / McEnroe, John, 1959- (Published: 2002) BIO 796.342 MCE
Great character sketch. Reader is able to see another side of this vigorous, forthright person. Fast moving and entertaining.
Reviewer: C. W.
Sex with kings: 500 years of adultery, power, rivalry and revenge / Herman, Eleanor, 1960- (Published: c2004) 940.099 HER
A well written, thoroughly entertaining history of the mistresses of the royalty of Europe. "When we imagine the finest mistress of all - she who is for a king - we see a hazy, shimmering image of a woman whose hands caress and mould history....Now and then we hear the rustling of a silk skirt, or hear her musical laughter echoing from behind the throne." (Herman, 2004 p.1). The book examines the lives of many of the most famous royal mistresses from history, such as Madame do Pompadour, mistress of Louis XV; the Marquise de Montespan, lover of Louis XIV and often referred to as 'the real Queen of France'; and Nell Gwynn who loved Charles II and was even the subject of his dying wish. To the more modern royal paramours, famously Wallis Simpson who was so beloved by Edward VIII that he abdicated his throne to marry her; and Camilla Parker-Bowles who married Prince Charles after an affair that spanned three decades.
Filled with history humour, the varied and very interesting lives, exploits and eventual fates of these women, makes for excellent reading.
Reviewer: Mandy
Sex with the queen: 900 years of vile kings, virile lovers, and passionate politics / Herman, Eleanor, 1960- (Published: c2006) 940.099 HER
A follow-up to Sex with kings (Eleanor Herman, 2004), this book looks into the exploits of the fairer sex. Throughout history standards have been different for men and women, and nowhere is this truer than in the royal court. It was almost expected for the king to have a mistress, but in most cases, the role of the queen was to serve her husband and produce royal offspring. However, in some cases this was not satisfactory. Kings and queens of Europe had a limited gene pool and inbreeding was common, as were its side effects. This poses the question of what is a beautiful, intelligent queen to do when she has been forced into marriage with a "sadistic, foaming at the mouth, physically repulsive, mentally retarded or sexually impotent" (p.3) royal ogre?
This book examines some of the great female rulers and the men who loved them. Regarded as an excellent ruler, Catherine the Great of Russia had many lovers throughout her life, after dispatching her idiot husband! Marie Antoinette was not immune to the charms of a handsome courtier, and Empress Elizabeth of Russia was known to have had a lover. Sex with the queen examines the inequality and unfortunate situations that, for queens of the past, were a fact of life.
Fascinating, rivetting and with an easy to read style, this book is a must for fans of history, biography or those just looking for a good read.
Reviewer: Mandy
The story of San Michele: a magical memoir of turning dreams into reality / Munthe, Axel, 1857 - 1949 (Published: 2004; first published 1929)
Classic memoir of a Swedish-born doctor trained in Paris who earned an international reputation. His patients included the cream of society in Paris and Rome; Tsar Nicholas asked him to look after his son...Rasputin was his second choice. Behind the scenes Munthe devoted much time to the care of the poor, from Parisian prostitutes to cholera and typhoid sufferers in southern Italy. He also dabbled in hypnotism. In his declining years he moved to the Isle of Capri where he re-built the Tiberian villa of San Michele. This unforgettable book packed with fascinating and poignant anecdotes is as readable now as it was when it was first published in 1929.
Reviewer: C. P.
Survival of the sickest: a medical maverick discovers why we need disease / Moalem, Sharon. (Published: 2007) 616.042 MOA
An insightful and surprising look into the origins of chronic diseases, tales of micro-bacteria, yeasts and other tiny living things....and the evolutionary development of these "problems", which also help us in mysterious ways. Tells like a murder mystery, but without murder!
Reviewer: Rosie
Talking to eating disorders: simple ways to support someone with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or body image issues / Heaton, Jeanne Albronda, 1944- (Published: 2005) 616.8526 HEA
This book gives an eating disorder sufferer's point of view; that treatment should be gentle, not restrictive. It details how to cope, how to live with the disorder; and also highly useful sections for loved ones. A book that does not strictly abide by what everyone else says, which is great!
Reviewer: Melissa Maher
The triumph of the airheads: and the retreat from commonsense / Gare, Shelley. (Published: 2006) 303.320994 GAR
What can one say about a book that promised enlightenment within the morass and fecundity of contemporary language and organisation process? Major disappointment here, people!
Shelley Gare and I don't fundamentally disagree on the premise that contemporary language has become antiseptic, non-committal and bland in the extreme; that post modernism and education is a very disagreeable partnership and that money rules the world. Well duh! Maybe a bit of historical perspective, ie looking back over the past 4000 to 5000 years of human history and mistake making, might provide Ms Gare with some context for her rambles. It would ultimately demonstrate that what she complains about, in grade 4 debating style is the usual tripe of each generation complaining about the one that follows it!
Shelley Gare also commits, in my eyes, the fundamental crime of emotional journalism. Her inability to be a rational debater of facts puts her in the pantheon of the airheads themselves. She has incarnated into the very mode of oppression she bitches about!
I wanted to like the book, but didn't!
Reviewer: Garry Conroy-Cooper
The two of us: the story of a father, a son, and the Beatles / Smith, Peter, 1959- (Published: 2004) 306.8742 SMI
If you are a Beatles fan like me, you will enjoy this book.
The two of us is a story of how music can bring people together. Peter Smith finds that his relationship with his young son Sam is going nowhere, until he introduces him to the music of the Beatles. On one long and boring car trip, he plays the album Abbey Road on the car stereo and from then on, Sam is hooked. The Beatles become an all-encompassing, passionate obsession for Sam, as well as being a way for Dad to re-live his younger years. The two become close through their Beatle mania, eventually embarking on a trip of a lifetime to visit Beatle haunts in London and Liverpool.
An interesting book, full of facts about the Beatles' music and their lives, as well as in insight into the relationship between fathers and ons!
Reviewer: Liz McLean
We are their heaven: why the dead never leave us / Dubois, Allison. (Published: c2006) 133.91 DUB
Whether you believe or disbelieve, this is a book to give you an alternative view. Allison Dubois' honesty and integrity was worthy of investigation. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Reviewer: Tina S.
William Pitt of Longford House / Reschke, Mary. (Published: 2006) 994.621 PIT
Written by a great-granddaughter of William Pitt of Longford House, this small book presents the author's personal discovery of her convict ancestor. William was 18 when he ran away from home, fell into bad company and was convicted of a minor crime. he was banished to Van Diemen's land for 14 years. Due to his good fortune in being assigned to Henry Reed of Wesley Dale, and as a result of his hard work and the support of his loving wife Eliza Murfet, William was transformed from a "well-known bad character" to a "gentleman" in the "land of plenty truly flowing with milk and honey".
Despite the lack of careful editing, the book would appeal to William Pitt's many descendants - including members of the Saltmarsh, Brumby, Pitt and Briggs families.
Reviewer: Marion
The year we seized the day: a true story of friendship, fury and sore feet / Best, Elizabeth, 1977- (Published: 2007) 914.61 BES
The title says it all! Two writers who barely knew each other undertook an epic journey across the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain following in the footsteps of mediaeval pilgrims. The boredom of the wheat fields, the blisters on their feet and being exhausted every day tested their friendship to the limits. They both carried too much baggage and the physical and mental endurance was almost too much to bear.
Reviewer: Marion Sargent
MISTO, JOHN, 1952- The devil's companions. (Published: 2006, c2005). Audio book compact disc read by Stephen Phillips
An exciting thriller/mystery! Twenty years ago, a small child is kidnapped on Christmas Eve and now the case is being re-investigated because of new evidence. Everyone thinks the child is dead, but could she still be alive?
This book starts off quite slowly, but it quickly builds into an exciting, nail-biting story, with a real twist at the end. To say more than that would give it away; so you will have to listen to find out what happens.
Stephen Phillips does a good job of narrating the story and keeps the listener interested. You just have to remember to concentrate on the road if you are driving at the time!
Reviewer: Angie
Breakfast at Tiffany's / Capote, Truman, 1924 - 1984 (DVD distributed: 1961)
Meet Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn), a pretty, eccentric New York playgirl/gold-digger who aims to marry a Brazilian millionaire. To quote her: "Any gentleman will give a girl fifty dollars for the powder room. And cab fare - that's another fifty!"
Holly's lifestyle confuses and fascinates Paul, her neighbour who is a struggling artist and a kept man. In public she flits through parties with a sexy, sophisticated air; but when they're alone she changes into a sweetly vulnerable bundle of neuroses.
I know this is an old movie, but it is a classic. Despite her behaviour, it is impossible not to like Holly Golightly and her no-name cat. The movie is at times witty and dazzling and others, sad and poignant. A must for anyone who likes their movies with a bit of glamour. Perfect for a girls' night in!
Reviewer: Mandy
Forever begins tonight / Buanne, Patrizio.
(CD released: 2006) D2 Italian
Uplifting music. This CD was wonderful to listen to from start to finish. And I listened to this many times. Every song was a delight and well chosen. The music, just like the singer was a very delicious and tasty dish. Well, maybe more than one dish! A complete CD full of love, fun, passionate songs that were sung from the heart. Deserves an Oscar if that is what they could give to this CD and truly wonderful singer Patrizio Buanne. Encore!
Reviewer: Birgit L.
Italian for beginners / Berthelsen, Anders W. (DVD distributed: c2001)
The winner of the 2001 Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival is set in a small Danish town. A newly arrived and recently widowed pastor arrives. His first funeral, for theobnoxious father of a harried baker's assistant, clashed with the funeral for the town's Italian teacher. A recently fired bar manager, whose customer service skills are sadly lacking, becomes the new teacher. Into the mix are his waitress friend, a young Italian woman madly in love with the teacher's friend and a hotel receptionist. Add a hairdresser whose mother is dying. All are linked by the shared activity of an Italian-language evening-class...and, yes, you guessed it...these misfits start coming out of their shells and finding love! A gentle film with quirky humour and a little too neat and predictable ending!
Reviewer: Nella
Keeping up appearances: The complete series 1 & 2 / Routledge, Patricia. (3 DVDs released: 2003)
Everyone knows a Mrs Bucket (pronounced bou-quet)! She's the infamous wife of poor, henpecked old Richard. Her main aim in life is to climb the social ladder, which she attempts by associating with the upper classes, using Royal Doulton china, and constantly boasting about her wealthy sister to infuriated acquaintances. Her other family, Rose, Daisy and Onslow are complete idle slobs, who always manage to turn up at the wrong time when Hyacinth is entertaining, or finding Daddy who goes missing. She's a snob, but a very funny one.
This series is a great laugh and well worth the watch!
Reviewer: Melissa Maher
March of the penguins as told by Morgan Freeman / Jacquet, Luc. (DVD distributed: c2005)
598.47 MAR
This Oscar-winning documentary shows the life of the remarkable Emperor penguins of Antarctica, from conception to death. They each go on a journey that is beyond the imagination! A beautiful story for all ages!
Reviewer: Melissa Maher
7 up (and) 7 plus 7 (Seven up series) / Apted, Michael. (DVD distributed: c1964, c1970) 305.5 SEV
Literature studies life to help one understand it. Even if an author doesn't really understand, at the very least, he is also a character in his work who shows his struggle to get a grip on reality, or on some kind of truth!
The 7 up series shows twelve British real-life characters from the age of 7 onwards, beginning in 1963. Because these characters from different classes in the U.K. are all living and "unfinished", one realises that their struggles to come to grips with life involve countless other characters...all those who watch the series and get in touch with the twelve! And above all, one realises that the director Michael influences them and their lives hugely.
Reviewer: Kelly Jones
To the manor born: the complete series / Bowles, Peter. (2 DVDs released: c 2004)
My review is a DVD comedy called To the manor born. Actor Penelope Keith stars as the formal "lady of the manor", Audrey Fforbes-Hamilton, who is forced to sell Grantleigh Manor, which has been in her family for 400 years. Richard DeVere (played by Peter Bowles), a millionaire, buys the manor and moves in with his elderly mother. Audrey and Richard have a love-hate relationship. Audrey's rich uncle dies suddenly leaving Audrey as the main beneficiary of his will. Richard loses control of his company and has to sell Grantleigh Manor, and Audrey buys it. Audrey asks Richard to marry her. They get married and have a happy wedding and begin their new lives together as Lord and Lady of the manor.
Reviewer: Christina A Waiss
Warren Miller's Cold fusion (DVD distributed: 2004)
Everyone loves summer, or so we're told, but just when every snow-deprived skier or boarder is at their lowest, Warren Miller's forty-something film arrives to take you straight to cold heaven! The bones of the Miller formula are all here: great locations (Verbier, Girdwood, Alaska, Iran and an endangered glacier in Kenya), the obligatory newbies fall-off-the-chairlift sequence, and some huge air from professionals at work at Winter Park. The backbone is plenty of superb footage of big turns, staggering speed, the best skiers and boarders on the planet, and seriously steep terrain. All this, plus a killer soundtrack will help you throught the current drought until next winter.
Reviewer: Gerald
Oxygen / Robert Kennedy's Australian women's fitness
What a magazine for those people out there who want to be inspired or to keep you pumping weights; whether you are 50+ looking for body toning - those flabby underarms or tighten up that butt, floppy tummy and wobbly thighs; or young and energetic, looking to build up your muscles and keep up the cardio workout! Oxygen is what you breathe; format is colourful, words are simple, lots of pictures.
Check it out!
Reviewer: E. W.
GRIFFITHS, ANDY, 1961-, The bad book. (Published: 2004)
I am disgusted that there is such a book in the children's section in a library. Frankly, it is not even funny and leaves a bad impression upon reading it. A horrible book and definitely NOT for children.
Reviewer: Felicia
HORACEK, JUDY, 1961-, The story of Growl. (Picture book published: 2007)
I love this book so much that I know every word of it. It is about Growl, a purple monster who lives in a castle at the end of Eucalyptus Drive. She growls all the time until the neighbours get the police to ban growling. The robber page is the best.
Reviewer: Jessica
JACQUES, BRIAN., Mattimeo (Redwall; 3). (Published: 1989)
This book is very enjoyable and is exciting. His series of Redwall books are all highly recommended.
Reviewer: E. T.
JONES, DIANA WYNNE, 1934-, The pinhoe egg. (Published: 2006)
As usual, Diana Wynne Jones writes a thrilling story about Cat and Chrestomanci, complete with a mysterious egg Cat found in an attic, and a deranged table sent after a donkey. A good read, one suitable general reading.
Reviewer: Felicia
PUNTER, RUSSELL., The dinosaur who lost his roar. (Published: 2007)
The dinosaur who lost his roar is the story about the naughty Little dinosaur who scares his friends by his loud roar, but when he lost his roar, he didn't like being laughed at. When he got better, he saved his friends from a T Rex by his mighty roar. This story teaches kids how they should treat their friends as they wanted to be treated. The colourful illustrating and the simple text are the added bonus for the book.
Reviewer: Jaibalajee Kannan
REICHE, DIETLOF. I, Freddy. (Published: 2003)
Freddy is a hamster, but no ordinary one. He is a golden hamster. He sets out on a quest of freedom and literacy. Sophie, unknowingly, helps him learn to read and in the end, he writes his life story.
Reviewer: Anna
WILKINSON, CAROLE., Dragonkeeper. (Published: 2003)
Dragonkeeper rules! (Move over Eragon, which I gave up on half way through; not a good read in my opinion). It is easy to see why this delightful book has won prizes because our own (Aussie) Carole Wilkinson is a terrific storyteller. The friendship between her 3 main characters, the unnamed girl, Hua and Danzi seems heartfelt and true, and that is the "glue" of the book. Their many adventures are lots of fun and not dull at any point. There is even a fight scene reminiscent of the latest martial arts flicks involving "throwing stars" (google it!). Imagine how good it was to learn that there is Dragonkeeper #2 & #3 !
Reviewer: Jane W.
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ABDEL-FATTAH, RANDA., Ten things I hate about me. (Published: 2006)
The star of this story is teenager Jamilah, who hides her Lebanese-Muslim background by calling herself Jamie and passing as an Aussie. Her hair is dyed blonde and she wears blue contacts. It doesn't matter that this central premise is rather unbelievable (i.e., you would think someone would figure it out). The book, charting Jamilah's journey to self-acceptance is a great read and lots of fun! The author is a young Australian Palestinian-Egyptian Muslim and she knows her territory, weaving a rattling good yarn around Jamilah and the other characters. My favourites are the older brother Bilal, who predictably is allowed more freedoms than his sister; activist sister Shereen, rapper Mustafa and Jamilah's mystery email correspondent rage_against_the_machine@hotmail.com.
Reviewer: Jane W.
CLAMP (Artistic group)., xxxholic (1). (graphic novel). (Published: 2004)
xxxHolic is packed full with supernatural themes and traditional customs of Japan which are quite interesting to read about; not to mention the fantastic artwork and characters that are a trademark of CLAMP. I highly recommend this series to manga lovers out there.
Reviewer: Felicia
HEFFERNAN, JOHN, 1949-, Marty's shadow. (Published: 2007)
This book is set in the small Australian fictional country town of Jarrah. The perceptive reader will eventually understand the origin of the shadows that haunt the teenage Marty and identify with him in seeking a resolution to his waking nightmares. This tormented loner who loves his dog, nature and his younger brother is an appealing hero. Marty's friendship with a refugee family and the insights it brings to him are an important part of the story. The book is brutal and confronting at times. It deals with issues of bullying, racism, child abuse and worse. A gripping read.
Reviewer: Jane Wilson
HOSHINO, KATSURA., D.Gray-Man. Vol 1. (graphic novel). (Published: 2004)
A nicely drawn manga with neat lines, D.Gray-Man is sure to captivate with Allen Walker, the protagonist, as an exorcist to destroy dangerous akuma, or devils. D.Gray-Man has an interesting enough story with the occasional laughter injected in it. Good read!
Reviewer: Felicia
MUCHAMORE, ROBERT., The recruit (Cherub; 1). (Published: 2004)
The recruit is just as fantastic as other books from the Cherub series. Highly recommended.
Reviewer: E. T.
PAOLINI, CHRISTOPHER., Eragon (Inheritance trilogy: 1). (Published: 2002)
I found Eragon an enchanting and interesting science fiction novel. The combination of being eventful and comedic, plus its length, made this one of my all-time favourite books. The storyline is practically about a boy who finds a stone that turns out to be a dragon's egg. A race called the Raz'ac were searching for the egg and tortures and kills his uncle to find where he is. He sets out for revenge and finds himself in a lot more than he intended!
Reviewer: Jacob Whatley
WALKER, SARAH, 1965-, If only. (Published: 2001)
Told from the viewpoint of Cara, this is a powerful fast paced story. Cara, Jessica and their respective boyfriends Fly and Danny hang out together. One night, Danny and Fly return from a quick trip to the service station acting strangely. The girls learn that a popular former school friend, Rudy, has been shot at his part-time job as a station attendant. When a security photo of the boys' backs is on the front page of the newspaper, the story of what really happened becomes confused. Cara wants to believe Fly's story, that they left just prior to the shooting, but later Danny tells her the truth. Cara is now an accessory and in danger of a lengthy prison sentence herself.
Reviewer: Nella
Chrono Crusade. Gospel 1, A plague of demons. (Released: 2004)
Chrono Crusade is an excellent anime about a human, Rosette Christopher, and a demon, Chrono, who is bound to her through a contract. Basically, the pair work as exorcists for the Magdalene Order and hunt down devils. However, they meet up with an old adversary, aion, who plans to defile Heaven. Based on the comic by Daisuki Moriyama.
Reviewer: Felicia
