Nobody can explain the "workings" of the government like Dave Barry. And they deserve it.

There's nothing very sunny about this book. Having said that, I should stress that it is excellent and sticks with you FOREVER. A haunting tale, heartbreaking and rich.

Some books (and people) just don't age well.

I get it--smut sells. So although this book was the salacious tale of its day, it read a little slowly for me. But perhaps I'm uncultured. Actually, we all know that's the case, so maybe you'll love it. Just focus on the dirty parts.

So fascinating to dive into the world of concubines, tradition and emerging independence--Pearl takes you back to China in 1938. Close your eyes and you're there. Well, don't close them or you can't read. You get the idea.

This book about abuse, religion, and family is written in a unique style. A very quick and compelling read.

What an intriguing plot--this story is told from the perspective of a dwarf living in Nazi Germany. Can you even imagine? Keeps you interested, and thinking.

A competent page-turner; you just might want to jot down the Latin nicknames as you go along to save time.

Like Pearl does with China, Willa regales us with stories of the Prairies. You're there, and can feel the dry wind through your hair and the sweat dripping down your brow. Transporting.

This is a little book with a big (but not preachy) message. Sweet.

Love and cruelty, faithfulness and loyalty. These elements are exemplified by"man" and "beast" in this unforgettable tale set in a circus during the Great Depression. At turns luxe and ragged, this story is raw and compelling. I can see why they made it into a movie, but as usual, the book was better.

Who'da thunk Dave had it in him? Not only can he write a goofy book on anything silly, but he can deftly weave a tale and even toss some darkness in there, too.