A few days ago I finished reading Angle of Repose by William Stegner. I would enjoy reading that man's grocery list, his style is so pleasureable to me. Usually I get short tempered with lots of description, but not with him. He describes so wonderfully, and with this book especially, he describes what I miss- the West.
It was perfect timing to read this just as I came back from Utah. I felt a connection with the main character who felt torn from her home and sent to a foreign place to follow her husband's career. She and I just have opposite views on which side of the U.S. we'd like to be on.
The main body of the story could have used condensing, while the end could have been elaborated on a little more. Overall I would definitely recommend this read, I think a 4 1/2 out of 5. I take off a half star for the weird dream sequence at the end. Someone please explain to me what it added to the book, it seemed out of character for the story. I like how it ended otherwise, how the author pulled himself into the story. All in all, an enjoyable read.
This morning I finished A High and Hidden Place by Michele Lucas. It is intimately intense, a personal story about repressed memory. Another book about WW II, but focused on one little girl orphaned in a one day atrocity. It was a quick read and I wouldn't discourage anyone from reading it. I found it easier to read than Night by Elie Weisel, that was so gut wrenching it was hard to tolerate. Which may sound insensitive when talking about books that expose the horror of war- but just because it happened doesn't mean I need it to cloud my thoughts as I try to hopefully press forward with life.
Something I really appreciated about this book was it's honest, yet tactful handling of religion and belief in God. The main character wrestles with her feelings throughout the book in an honest way. In the end I felt it was real but not preachy, leaving me uplifted.
Now its on to the bookgroup read, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society with Pickles and Lettuce and Don't Forget the Side Order of Sap. OK, forgive my attitude, it's just such a horrid title. I have heard good things about the book.
I have always wanted to read Wallace Stegner, I will definitely look for Angle of Repose and put it in my "stack". I have been reading your blog for awhile now and enjoy your view of life!
Posted by: Rebecca | August 15, 2009 at 12:12 PM
I've been wanting to read Angle of Repose--thanks for the gentle push in that direction!
Posted by: Gretchen | August 15, 2009 at 12:59 PM
Thank you for your book reviews. A High and Hidden Place seems intriguing to me, and I'm not a reader.
Posted by: Sweet Escape | August 16, 2009 at 07:33 PM