Xine's Pack

The Lit Lounge – Unveiling May’s Audiobook Gems: Reviews and Reflections

May, a month of playful weather pranks, toyed with us through its ever-shifting temperatures, swinging from the frigid clasp of the high 30s to the scorching embrace of the high 80’s, keeping us suspended in an eternal meteorological dance. Ah, layers, the indispensable companions of our New Hampshire existence, for we embrace them regardless of the whims of the weather gods. And so, amidst these climatic hot flashes, I found solace in the sanctuary of my den, where I diligently sorted, arranged, and filed months of paperwork accompanied by the symphony of my audiobooks.

In the rich tapestry of literature, I immerse myself in the hidden gems of history, embarking on a thrilling journey through time’s captivating labyrinth. The stories of remarkable individuals cast enchanting spells, drawing me deeper into their captivating tales. It’s a magical dance where the echoes of the past embrace my spirit, captivating me with the wonders of bygone eras. In the pages of Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy, a doorway opens, transporting me to an era brimming with intrigue. Brace yourself for an adventure like no other, as secrets and revelations unfold, igniting your imagination with a celestial fire.

Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy: Four Women Undercover in the Civil War by Karen Abbott

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy by Karen Abbott is a fascinating look at the lives of four women who played significant roles in the Civil War. These women defied gender norms and societal expectations to fight for their beliefs and make a difference in a time of turmoil. It is important that their stories are told and their contributions recognized, as they demonstrate the strength and courage of women throughout history. The audiobook version is engaging and well-narrated. Karen White does an excellent job using differentiating voices; however, I still needed some help keeping track of the different characters and their individual stories as the narrative jumps back and forth between them. My struggles to remember who was who and what was happening detracted from my enjoyment of the book.

I appreciate the amount of research and detail that went into this book, and it is an important contribution to women’s history. It offers a unique perspective on the Civil War and sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of women during this period. Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy is 3.75 stars – rounding up to 4 stars. It is an important and worthwhile read/listen; I recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the Civil War and the role of women during this time.

American Shaolin: Flying Kicks, Buddhist Monks, and the Legend of Iron Crotch: An Odyssey in the New China by Matthew Polly

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

American Shaolin by Matthew Polly is a memoir that provides an intriguing glimpse into the author’s journey to China to study martial arts. Polly’s personal experiences and observations offer valuable insights into the cultural landscape of China in the late 1990s. Having been to China in 2008, reading American Shaolin and listening to the audiobook provided a unique perspective. It was fascinating to compare and contrast my own experiences with those described in the book, particularly given the significant changes and progress that China has made over the years. Reflecting on the historical context and considering China’s current standing in 2023 added an extra layer of reflection to the story.

The audiobook version, narrated by George Newbern, offers an immersive listening experience. Newbern’s narration is clear and engaging, effectively bringing Polly’s words to life. His tone and delivery capture the essence of the author’s journey, allowing listeners to connect with Polly’s challenges, triumphs, and personal growth. However, it’s important to note that the book was originally published in 2007, and the audiobook edition in 2018 does not alter the story’s historical context. While the audiobook enhances the storytelling experience, it does not provide an updated perspective on China’s current state.

Considering these factors, American Shaolin remains a valuable memoir that offers a window into a specific time period in China’s history. It is a testament to the author’s journey and the cultural landscape of that era. However, readers and listeners should approach it, understanding that it may not fully reflect China’s current status in the world.

May unleashed its whirlwind of tales upon me, leaving me entangled in a pile of unread books. The struggle is real between the seductive pages and the call of the great outdoors, where plants beckon for attention and tasks multiply like rabbits. Marie Benedict’s The Personal Librarian whispered promises of intrigue, but the chaos of spring gardening and outdoor chores conspired to keep me from its captivating grasp. Life is always finding a way to derail our literary pursuits!

I’ve become a master at sneaking in a chapter or two in the mornings, courtesy of the digital realm. Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? takes the stage as my faithful morning companion, jolting my mind awake in between morning puzzles and meditation.before the day’s exploits begin.

Ah, the pandemonium of spring cleaning! My neglected physical books, their covers taunting me, adding to my dusting. Yet, as I roam from room to room, closet to closet, organizing and decluttering, the whispered secrets of The Memoirs of Cleopatra on Audible fill my ears. The captivating narration weaves an enchanting web, transporting me to the enigmatic world of ancient Egypt, magically alleviating the tedium of mundane duties and infusing them with a touch of enchantment.

May’s literary adventures have reached their final page and I am way ahead of schedule in my Goodreads Reading Challenge which is also one reason I decided to listen to the 49 hours 51 minute audiobook epic.

I’ll leave this session in the Lit Lounge with the timeless wisdom of Oscar Wilde: ‘It is what you read when you don’t have to that determines what you will be when you can’t help it.’ May our reading choices shape us into the passionate book lovers we were always meant to be as we eagerly anticipate the literary wonders that June will unveil.

View all my reviews

Macro Monday – May 29, 2023

Macro Monday – May 28, 2023

Beyond Screens: Nostalgic Reflections on a Simpler Era

Daily writing prompt

Do you remember life before the internet?

View all responses

Oh, the days before the internet! They hold a certain charm, a nostalgic longing for a simpler way of life. In response to the writing prompt asking whether I remember life before the internet, my answer is an unequivocal yes. The world we inhabited back then was one where imagination thrived, friendships blossomed through outdoor play, and entertainment relied not on screens but on the power of our minds.

During those pre-internet days, children engaged in many delightful activities that ignited their imaginations and fostered friendships. Games like Kick the Can, Capture the Flag, and Four Square filled our afternoons with laughter and camaraderie. Whether it was trading baseball cards or collecting Pokémon, kids relish the thrill of bartering and the joy of discovering new treasures. Forts became our sanctuaries, and we immersed ourselves in endless adventures that spanned entire summers, abiding by the simple rule of returning home before darkness settled in. Barbie dolls and GI Joes became our trusted companions; their stories are interwoven with our imaginative narratives.

As I grew older, Central Park became our meeting place, where we basked in the warmth of friendship and listened to the radio, played frisbee, and roller skated. Rainy days invited us to curl up with books or engage in spirited card and board games, while visits to the bowling alley with our friends added excitement to our lives.

In reflecting upon those bygone days, I am reminded of the words of Henry David Thoreau, the transcendentalist philosopher who sought solace in a simpler existence. Although technology has undoubtedly made many aspects of our lives more convenient, the pace we move through the world today often leaves us breathless. In our relentless pursuit of instant gratification and boundless information, have we inadvertently sacrificed the beauty of living in the moment?

The absence of the internet meant that information was not readily available at our fingertips. Researching a topic required a trip to the library, flipping through pages of books, and carefully selecting suitable sources. It was a deliberate process, one that demanded patience and dedication. But in that process, we discovered the knowledge we sought and the joy of exploration, the thrill of finding unexpected treasures nestled within the pages.

The internet, undeniably, has revolutionized the way we access information. With a few keystrokes, we can unravel the mysteries of the universe and learn about any topic that piques our curiosity. The ease and convenience are undeniable. We can now delve into the depths of knowledge from the comfort of our own homes. Once bastions of wisdom, libraries have taken on a different role in this digital age.

opposite signs on wooden signpost with the text quote good bad engraved. Web banner format.

Yet, there is a price we pay for this convenience. The internet, with its allure, tends to make us less sociable creatures. As we navigate the vast online world, we find ourselves glued to screens, be it a computer or a cell phone. Our interactions become confined to pixels on a screen, and the art of face-to-face conversation begins to wane. The simple act of engaging with the person sitting across from us, looking them in the eye, and genuinely listening to their words is gradually eroded.

In contemplating the pros and cons of life before and after the advent of the internet, I find myself torn. There is an undeniable allure to the easy access to information that the online realm affords us. Yet, I can’t help but yearn for a time when our imaginations were the primary source of entertainment when the world beyond our screens was the canvas on which we painted our adventures.

So, do I remember life before the internet? Yes, I do. It was a time of simplicity, of connection with both nature and one another. It was a time when we were not in a perpetual rush and had the luxury of time to play and dream. As we navigate this ever-evolving technological landscape, let us remember the lessons from our past. Let us strive for balance, cherishing the digital age’s benefits while preserving the beauty of a slower, more connected existence.

Silent Sunday – May 29, 2023

The Earthy Alchemist

Welcome to “The Earthy Alchemist,” where we dive headfirst into the captivating world of gardening and the wonders of the natural realm.

As the dandelions bloom and nature signals the perfect time to plant potatoes, I can’t help but feel like an excited child at the window. Although Mark and I have retired from our gardening business, Homegrown Harvest, our passion for gardening knows no bounds. With a focus on savoring the flavors of homegrown delights, we craft our garden with our stomachs in mind. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like homemade potato soup or salsa made from our bountiful harvests! We can the salsa and freeze portions of the potato soup, ensuring we can enjoy tastes of homegrown goodness even on those tired winter days when starting from scratch seems daunting.

Fabric bags, like the ones we use for growing potatoes, offer remarkable versatility, especially when space is limited or unconventional. You can transform patios, balconies, and driveways with fabric bags into thriving gardens. As long as you have access to adequate light and quality soil, you can grow a wide variety of plants in these bags, from vegetables to herbs and even vibrant flowers. The best part is that the yield can be just as impressive, if not better, than traditional in-ground gardening. We’ve experienced bumper harvests of potatoes, tomatoes, and other crops that rival those grown in traditional beds. And let’s not forget about the convenience factor—harvesting from fabric bags is an absolute breeze. When it’s time to collect your bounty, you only need to dump out the bags and sift through the soil, revealing a treasure trove of homegrown goodness. So whether you’re short on garden space or prefer a more manageable gardening experience, fabric bags are a versatile solution that will deliver impressive results and make your harvests a joy to gather.

Now, if you’re eager to grow your own potatoes, starting with quality seed potatoes is essential. Old grocery store potatoes aren’t recommended since commercially grown varieties prioritize shelf life over flavor. Aren’t we all tired of the same lackluster selection at the local store? I highly recommend exploring reputable sources like the Maine Potato Lady and John Scheepers Kitchen Garden Seeds. The variety of colors, tastes, and textures they offer will mesmerize you. We fell head over heels for the German Butterball, its creamy and buttery texture creating the most heavenly soups.

Once you find a potato variety that tickles your taste buds, I encourage you to save your seed potatoes from the harvest. It’s a satisfying and sustainable practice that ensures a repeat performance of your favorite spuds. As for our preferred method, growing potatoes in grow bags has proven to be an absolute game-changer. Not only does it save planting space, but it also simplifies the harvest process. Just tip over the bags; it becomes an exhilarating potato treasure hunt! The flexibility of the bags allows us to reuse the soil, filling eroded areas and replenishing nutrients through composting.

But that’s not all—grow bags offer even more garden freedom. Once emptied, they can be folded and stored for future use. And guess what? You can enhance the flavor of your tubers by adding companion plants to the tops, such as basil, parsley, or thyme. The beans contribute nitrogen to the soil, while flowers like petunias and marigolds add beauty and beneficial companionship. Lettuce and radishes make excellent companions, too, offering a quick-growing and delicious secondary crop.

Now, let’s discuss one of our favorite recipes—potato soup! Thanks to The Pioneer Woman, we discovered a perfect potato soup that never fails to delight. When you have homegrown potatoes selected explicitly for their creamy texture, you can dial back on the added dairy while still enjoying a luscious soup.

https://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/perfect-potato-soup/?printable_recipe=12045

Life is all about embracing new experiences, including stepping into the gardening world. Don’t let fear of the unknown or fear of failure hold you back. Whether trying out fabric bags for growing food or experimenting with new vegetable varieties, taking that first step can be the hardest. But trust me, the fruits of your labor will be incredibly satisfying.

Remember, every seed holds the potential for a bountiful harvest. Embrace the transformative power of gardening and nurture your connection with the natural world.

In the Blink of an Eye

[Note to the reader: This is a post that I update from time to time. The original post was started in 2013]

In the blink of an eye, half a year has passed, and my world and the world at large have undergone significant changes. Over the past five months, my family and I have been bidding farewell to my father, packing up and clearing out two homes, and preparing them for sale. My sister and her husband deserve a round of applause for seeing everything through till the end – my father couldn’t have asked for a better farewell. But with goodbyes comes grief, and it seems like death has been a recurring theme lately, whether it’s losing loved ones or our furry and feathered friends.

But as they say, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel, and for me, that light comes in the form of spring finally arriving on the mountain, albeit with a bit too much rain. In the first week of May alone, we’ve had more than five inches of rainfall, which follows the six inches we received in April. The ground is soggier than a wet sponge in some places! Particularly down by where we had a couple of beavers dam up our culvert right before all the rain! However, it’s time to embrace the season and start planting our garden now that the fear of frost has passed (we hope).

On a brighter note, I recently received my first royalty check from the sales of my memoir, Xine’s Pack of Stray & Others. The fact that thirty people purchased and read my book in the first three months is a thrilling feeling. I’m working on promoting the book and brainstorming ideas for my next project, whatever that may be. Despite the challenges, I’m grateful for the changes and the new beginnings that come with them.

The stream flooding over our driveway thanks to the beavers damming up the culvert before all the rain

In the blink of an eye…it’s November 2022…We just celebrated 7 years living here on the mountain. So much has gone on in these last four years. I sold the house in Connecticut when Covid turned the housing market around two year ago. The last few years have been unsettling for more reasons than just having to quarantine. We all have caught Covid despite being immunized and careful. Everyone’s lives have changed one way or another. Our lives have been turned upside down these last couple of years, beginning with my mom’s death twenty-one months ago. Then there was my DBXH’s fatal heart attack four months ago. I wouldn’t care so much but he was the father of my children. Both children have relocated to new cities and states working at jobs they enjoy. It’s been a rough year for them, so it fills my heart with joy that they are happy in their new environments and beginning to make their ways in the world. In this brave new world, Mark and I have been caring for chickens, we have three beautiful Rhode Island Red Hens. Plenty of fresh eggs daily. Until there weren’t. But production has resumed it seems for the time being. In May, we celebrated 11 years together. These last few years , we have given up some old habits and started a few new ones. We have been been living more mindfully and mediate every morning together for 20 -30 minutes. And with all this stuff going on, I managed to write and publish a book, Xine’s Pack of Strays & Others – A Memoir. It’s been a busy bunch of years.

Cover Artwork that I did for my memoir.
All the shadows used are silhouettes of my dogs in the book.

In the blink of a eye…it’s 2019…We have been living in New Hampshire on the side of a mountain 1500 feet up with a spectacular view for a little over three years. A simpler life, yet we work all the time, trying to build our two businesses. Our puppy Marley is now 5 years old and all our beautiful Brittanys have passed away – God bless their souls. They all lived long and wonderful lives, Winston and Artemis being able to come and enjoy our new home in the mountains. Now our two mini-goldendoodle brothers, Boomer and Gunner are going to be turning 2 in May! Where did the time go?!

Yesterday I hugged my 25 year old son and his 3 year old goldendoodle before they left to head down to the Connecticut house. He has been living there for the last 15 months after leaving college in Vermont. It wasn’t working out for him – he is still struggling to get on the right track.

In the blink of an eye…it’s 2018…yesterday I watched my daughter receive her college diploma and make the Dean’s list. It seems like yesterday I dropped her off for her first day of school and drove her to endless hours of tutoring. Now she’s living with her one-year old puppy in Portland, Maine and trying to find that first foothold in her graphic design career.

There is no waving the Mommy magic wand and making things all better for them – they are in the big, bad, world now and I can’t protect the from everything like I once was able to. I tried my hardest to give them the skills to fly on their own – I pray I did enough. I probably did too much – coddling to make up for the divorce. I hope I didn’t do too much. That would be a disservice to them ultimately. It’s a fine line we have to walk as parents.

In the blink of an eye…it’s 2016…yesterday I hugged my son and his new puppy goodbye after setting the up their new apartment in Burlington. I pray he is able to move forward from the tragedy and get his life back on track in this new environment.

In the blink of an eye …it ‘s 2015…I hugged my son’s 21 year old girlfriend good-bye after seeing Dead & Company with them on Halloween night. She wasn’t feeling well and was coming down with an ear infection. A perfect storm of a bacterial and viral infection in her inner ear would cause sepsis. In a blink of an eye – 11 days later – she was dead.

In the blink of an eye…it was 2013….Yesterday was my son’s 20th birthday. It amazes me how certain things seem like they were yesterday but at the same time it was a lifetime ago. Twenty years ago I lived in Rochester Hills, Michigan; I was married and a brand new parent to baby boy. I had a Shetland sheepdog and I was approaching 30. Today, I live in Connecticut, I am divorced almost for 10 years, have two grown adults for children. I have four dogs, all Brittanys and I am approaching 50. I also live my boyfriend of three years. Yet it seems like yesterday I was in Michigan having my first born.

“A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.” Winnie the Pooh Peace – Xine S.

Why I Started Leaving My Mark on Books (And You Should Too!)

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies, said Jojen. The man who never reads lives only one.”
George R.R. Martin

Hey there, fellow book lovers! Have you ever lost yourself in a good book and felt completely absorbed by the story, characters, and message? Me too! That’s why I love reviewing books. It’s a way to remember why I loved a particular book and share that enjoyment with others.

But here’s the thing, reviewing books isn’t just about sharing the ones you love. It’s also important to review books that might not be your cup of tea. By sharing your honest opinions, you’re helping others avoid books that might not fit them well. Plus, you’re providing valuable feedback to the author, who can use it to improve their writing in the future. So, don’t be afraid to share your thoughts on a book that didn’t quite hit the mark.

I know it can be overwhelming to choose your next read with so many books out there. That’s why I review books – to help other book lovers like you find your next great read. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming romance, a gripping mystery, or an inspiring memoir, my reviews can help guide you toward a book you’ll love. I developed a criteria that I stick by to help me decide how to rate each book. See my post, My Star Ratings Explained, to learn more about my criteria.

And let’s not forget about audiobooks! They’re an increasingly popular format; reviewing them is as important as physical books. When reviewing audiobooks, it’s important to consider the narrator’s performance, the sound quality, and the overall production value. After all, there’s nothing worse than listening to a narrator whose voice annoys you or a production that detracts from your experience.

As someone who loves audiobooks, I know how convenient they can be, especially when you’re short on time. They’re perfect for multitasking, like listening while commuting, doing chores, or exercising. I don’t mind filing anymore when I have a good book to listen to while I work. So, if you’re an audiobook lover like me, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and review them. Your reviews can make a significant difference to potential listeners, helping them discover new books and giving them an idea of what to expect.

Lastly, books have the power to change lives, broaden our horizons, challenge our assumptions, and connect us with others in meaningful ways. By sharing our love of reading and reviewing books, we can inspire others to pick up a book and experience the same joy and enrichment that we did. So, join me in reviewing books and sharing our passion for reading with the world!

My Book Buddy

There is no greater feeling of joy than snuggling up with one of our dogs on the chaise. Our furry friends bring so much happiness into our lives, especially Marley, who was rescued by PawSafe nine years ago. She loves exploring the woods around our home, but also has a soft and cuddly side that is hard to resist. When we settle onto the chaise with a good book, Marley and the rest of Xine’s Pack often join us, ready for some quality cuddle time. It’s amazing to feel their warmth and soft fur while getting lost in a great story. These moments remind us of how grateful we are for our beloved companions and the simple pleasures they bring into our lives.

The Lit Lounge

Welcome to The Lit Lounge, a cozy spot for book lovers like you and me! I’m eager to share my reviews and thoughts on the latest books and audiobooks I’ve read and listened to. Take a seat, relax, and enjoy finding your next favorite read in our warm environment. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea and let’s explore the wonderful world of books together!

The April Reading Rambles of Xine

Are you one of those people like me who love to read, but often find themselves stuck on which book to choose? Fear not, as there are reliable tools available to aid in this decision-making process. The reading challenge lists from PopSugar and Book List Queen are helpful but they only go so far in helping you work through your libraries. Enter pickerwheel.com, a website that can randomly select a book from your own list of titles with just a single click.

I recently gave this website a try, and I must say, I was impressed with the results. The first book that was selected for me was none other than The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor, an audiobook that I had purchased a few months back but couldn’t recall why. Despite this, I was thrilled to give it a listen and discover what it had in store. Now when I have to select my next book to read – I won’t dread making the decision as much.

The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor is a historical fiction novel set in Austria in 1938 and Los Angeles in 1989. The story follows Katie Nelson, a magazine writer, as she investigates a letter from her philatelist father’s stamp collection that leads her on an international journey to solve the mystery of the lost letter. The more exciting story takes place in Austria in 1938, around the time of Kristallnacht. This storyline was riveting, and I wanted to learn more about Kristoff, Elena, and their work with the stamps and the resistance efforts. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the male narrator very much, but I found the female narration for Kate dry. Overall, I thought the story was good but not great; it took me a little while to get into it. I give it 3 stars for having an exciting premise, but the execution fell short for me.

Chinua Achebe is a lyrical and evocative storyteller who can create vivid, believable characters who leap off the page. In Things Fall Apart, the protagonist Okonkwo is a complex and fascinating figure whose struggles and flaws are compelling and tragic.

I struggled to get into the rhythm of reading this book, the first of three books in his African trilogy. Moreover, Achebe’s portrayal of traditional Igbo society is insightful and thought-provoking. He explores the customs, beliefs, and values of this culture in great detail, showing how they are intimately connected to the daily lives of its people. Through his descriptions of rituals, celebrations, and everyday interactions, Achebe paints a rich and immersive portrait of a world familiar and alien to Western readers.

At the same time, Achebe is not afraid to confront some of the darker aspects of Igbo society, such as the practice of human sacrifice and the rigid gender roles that limit women’s agency. He also explores the impact of colonialism on the Igbo people, showing how their way of life is disrupted and ultimately destroyed by the arrival of European missionaries and administrators.

I highly recommend Things Fall Apart to anyone interested in African literature or who enjoys well-crafted stories exploring complex themes and characters. While the book can be challenging, it is a rewarding and deeply satisfying read. 4 Stars.

The Bookstore Sisters by Alice Hoffman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alice Hoffman’s The Bookstore Sisters is a heartwarming novella about two sisters who run a small-town bookstore. The story is filled with nostalgia, humor, and heart, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. The story’s strengths lie in its exploration of family relationships and Hoffman does an excellent job of depicting the complexities and challenges of these relationships. In addition, the story celebrates the power of books and the joy of reading. The bookstore itself becomes a character in the story, and its presence is felt throughout the novel. This is a wonderful tribute to the role that books and bookstores play in our lives. It’s also the primary reason I choose it.
However, the book may not be for everyone. Some readers may find the pacing slow at times, and the plot may not be action-packed enough for those who prefer more fast-paced stories. Overall, The Bookstore Sisters is a lovely and engaging novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories and appreciate the power of books. While it may not be perfect, it is still a worthwhile read and deserves a rating of 3.5 stars

Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto is a captivating short novel that explores love, loss, and grief. The book is divided into two stories, “Kitchen” and “Moonlight Shadow,” both emotionally charged and thought-provoking. Yoshimoto’s writing style is simple yet elegant, and the translation by Megan Backus maintains the beauty of the original Japanese prose. The characters are well-developed, and their experiences feel genuine, making it easy for readers to empathize with them.
The story of “Kitchen” revolves around Mikage, a young woman who has lost both her parents and finds solace in the kitchen. She is relatable, and her struggles with loneliness and finding a place to belong are poignant. The other characters, Yuichi and his mother, also bring depth to the story, and their relationships with Mikage are heartfelt. “Moonlight Shadow” is a slightly darker story that explores the theme of death and how it affects the living. The main character, Satsuki, struggles to come to terms with the sudden death of her boyfriend and finds solace in a young man named Hiiragi. The story is haunting and moving, and the way it is intertwined with the first story adds depth and complexity to the book. Kitchen is a beautifully written and emotionally engaging book worth reading.

Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman is a humorous and engaging read, perfect for fans of fantasy and mythology. The story follows the life of Charlie Nancy, who is struggling to cope with the death of his father, a notorious trickster god known as Anansi. When Charlie discovers he has a brother, he sets out on a journey of self-discovery that takes him to the world of gods and magic. One of the best things about Anansi Boys is Gaiman’s writing style. His prose is witty, lyrical, and filled with clever wordplay that will keep you entertained throughout the entire book. The characters are also well-developed and endearing, particularly Charlie, who is relatable and sympathetic.
The audiobook version is also a joy to listen to. Narrated by Lenny Henry, the audiobook captures the humor and playfulness of the story, and Henry’s performance brings the characters to life in a way that is both entertaining and engaging.
My only complaint about the book is that the plot can be meandering at times. However, this is a minor quibble, and overall, I found Anansi Boys to be a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining read. If you’re a fan of fantasy or mythology, or if you’re just looking for a fun and engaging story, I highly recommend giving this book a try.

This month has been filled with plenty of great reads, as I’ve managed to finish five books that I’d rate four stars or higher. However, I did encounter one book that wasn’t quite as impressive and earned a three-star rating. I am way ahead of schedule in my Goodreads Reading Challenge, having completed 54% of my intended goal of 59 books.

Currently, I’m diving into Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy, a thrilling non-fiction account of four women who played pivotal roles in the Civil War. Plus I am working on finishing up The Personal Librarian, a historical fiction novel about Belle da Costa Greene, a woman who worked as a librarian at the Morgan Library in New York City during the early 1900s. I can’t wait to see how both of these books play out, and I have a few others on my list that I’m eagerly anticipating as well.

Thanks for joining me in The Lit Lounge this month! I hope you found some great new books to add to your reading list. Don’t forget to share your own recommendations in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you’re all reading next! Until next time, happy reading!

April Fool’s Day 2023

No joke – we woke to four inches of heavy wet snow up here on the mountain. Just as there were patches of grass and parts of the rock wall had started to appear the other day, nature decided — not yet! I prefer spring snow to dreary spring rain, but I am sure that will come in time too. At least I hope so. A few years ago we were in a terrible drought while ironically reading Dune during that time, Since then, I never take the rainy season for granted — I welcome it. We have plans to add a barn to our property hopefully soon and are planning on trying to collect out water runoff for our gardens and since we are on well water, we welcome the chance for the underground aquifers to replenish and fill.

April 1 2023 – Bridgewater, New Hampshire