Captivating

Wow. Author Lisa Belkin deftly tells the story of three families, from their "old country" origins four generations back, to their adopted home, the United States. Three men were ultimately involved in a murder, and we wonder as the book winds its way along, which will be which. I find that some authors include way too much superfluous material about characters, rendering the story mind-numbing and hard to read. Maybe to prove they did the research? Maybe to make the book longer? I don't know, but this book is not that, be assured. Although she fleshes out the family members, it's interesting and helps one "know" their stories and what made them tick. As this book was nearing its dramatic conclusion, I was still unsure of the outcome and as tense as if I were reading a hot summer mystery. The absolute cherry on top is that the author is actually related to one of the characters. Wanna find out which one? Read it!

A Painful (Re)Collection

Pauline Harmange remembers the difficult decision she (and her partner) made to terminate a pregnancy in this small but potent book. Her experience led her to tell not only her own story but those of other women. The result is, as one who thinks may expect, that one can feel conflicting emotions at the same time. And that despite sadness over what might have been, sometimes people are hanging on by a thread and a baby would break the tenuous hold one has on sanity and/or stability. The stories told here are raw and emotional, and definitely gave me something to think about. Just because it may have been the right decision at that time, it doesn't mean it's ever "over" for the woman (or man) involved.

A Life of Adventure

Local Niles resident, Rick Burgess relates some of his most incredible memories in this self-published memoir. From his childhood tales of cozy community camaraderie to the airwaves to aeronautical dramas, he's lived a full life. Honestly, it makes me feel more than a little boring . . .