The Summer is winding down, but Summer Reading throughout the New York Public Library is still in full swing and our readers at St. George Library Center are taking full advantage of their joy for reading by sharing their own personal book reviews. Here are just a few of the comments that our readers have shared on the items they have read, centered on a variety of themes which include love, identity, drama and so much more!
In One Person by John Irving
"John Irving’s new novel brings us back to many of his favorite themes and places (New England boarding schools, wrestling, sexual ambiguity), but in a much more personal voice than before. This coming-of-age novel is compelling and compassionate as it explores themes of sexual identity, ambiguity and loss. Charming, touching and very moving. One of Irving’s best since A Widow for One Year!"
Comeback Love by Peter Golden
"Pleasant book for older people who often wonder ‘What If?' about an old relationship. Through a series of circumstances there is a reunion between two people who were in love in the '80s in NYC. Enjoyed it."
Bring up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel
"This book, the successor to Wolf Hall, has all the elements of a great book — the knowledge of the subject (Henry VIII), the period (Anne Boleyn), plus the advantage of crisp, disciplined writing. Since style is often a deal breaker, Ms. Mantel possesses style in depth, nuance and tight control of her material. You come to really care about her characters because she sees them so clearly and insightfully."
American Dervish by Ayad Akhtar
"American Dervish is a superb coming of age novel about a Muslim boy living in the U.S., and his sexual awakening. He’s in love with his mother’s best friend — and must choices between his religion and modern American society. Very engaging, quick read. Quite thought provoking at the same time."
Who do Voodoo? by Rochelle Staab
"A cute tale of what happens to those that dip into voodoo. An education of different kinds. Light summer reading."
Guilty Wives by James Patterson
"I am a fan of James Patterson, therefore I love most of his books. I found Guilty Wives very fascinating and difficult to put down. Since the story was set in France, I was intrigued with much of the French Patterson utilized in the story. Patterson managed to keep the foreshadowing events continually throughout the novel. C’est Bon!"
11/22/63 by Stephen King
"A man travels back in time to try to stop J.F.K.’s assassination. One of the best Stephen King has written in a while!"
The Obamas by Jody Kantor
"An insightful and fascinating glimpse into America’s first couple. A good grasp of the president and the power behind the throne of First Lady, Michelle Obama. I frankly do not understand the controversy surrounding this honest, penetrating account about a high profile couple who genuinely respect and love each other."
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle
"The book is life changing. It makes a person observe oneself and find one's egoic sides. To be happy in life is very simple — you should live in a present moment and not allow your emotions to take over you. Analyze any situation. Awareness is the first step to happiness. ‘This too, will pass,’ the author says, so we have to enjoy the moment."
Come in and share your book reviews with us for a chance to win a $50 gift card to 120 Bay Cafe. Afterward, join us for Bagels & Books on Saturday, August 25th at 1 p.m. to enjoy some bagels and refreshments while discussing the books you've read over the Summer, as well as a chance to win a gift card to Bagel Mercato. Also, don't forget to sign up for Summer Reading!