Bookish Quote of the Day!!

 

Harold & Maude by Colin Higgins

 

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Harold & Maude by Colin Higgins and it is excellently narrated by Barbara Rosenblat.

Listening time for Harold & Maude by Colin Higgins is 4 hours.

I first became acquainted with the 1971 movie version of 'Harold & Maude', starring Ruth Gordon as Maude, in the mid-1980s during a high school drama class. I never knew there was a novelization of the movie until very recently.

I haven't seen the movie version of 'Harold & Maude' in decades, but I remember liking this quirky, cult classic back in the day!! So, I knew I had to read the book when I discovered it earlier this month in audio format. 

I enjoyed the storyline, plot, characters, and writing very much for Harold & Maude. Harold, a 19 year old young man, is obsessed with death. His many attempts to shock his self-absorbed mother with his fake suicide attempts are something else! Harold loves to attend funerals and he even drives a hearse. Harold meets life-loving, free-spirit Maude at a funeral. Maude is a 79 years old woman and she and Harold form a deep bond. Maude imparts many important life lessons to Harold throughout the novel, which is the beauty of this novel.

Below is the publishers summary for Harold & Maude by Colin Higgins, which I discovered on Chirp's website:

Nineteen-year-old Harold Chasen is obsessed with death. He fakes suicides to shock his self-obsessed mother, drives a hearse, and attends funerals of complete strangers.

Seventy-nine-year-old Maude Chardin, on the other hand, adores life. She liberates trees from city sidewalks and transplants them to the forest, paints smiles on the faces of church statues, and “borrows” cars to remind their owners that life is fleeting—here today, gone tomorrow!

A chance meeting between the two turns into a madcap, whirlwind romance, and Harold learns that life is worth living, and how to play the banjo.

Harold and Maude started as Colin Higgins’s master’s thesis at UCLA film school before being made into the 1971 film directed by Hal Ashby. The quirky, dark comedy gained a loyal cult following, and in 1997 it was selected for inclusion on the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress. Fans who have seen the movie dozens of times will find this a valuable companion, as it gives fresh elements to watch for and answers many of the film’s unresolved questions.

I am giving Harold & Maude by Colin Higgins a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Brattle Bookstore in Boston, MA is a Bookstore I Want to Visit!!

I don't think I'd ever heard of Brattle Book Shop in Boston until Memorial Day weekend this year. 

I would love to visit this book shop, which is billed as one of America's oldest antiquarian book shops according to Brattle Book Shop's website. Brattle Book Shop was established in 1825.

According to Brattle Book Shop's website:

Welcome to one of America's oldest and largest used book shops. The Brattle features two floors of general used books, a third floor of rare and antiquarian books and an outside sale lot.

The above, short video shows the outside sale lot at Brattle Book Shop. I wish the video showed what the inside space of Brattle Book Shop looks like as well.

Have any of my readers visited the Brattle Book Shop before? I'd be curious to hear about your experience there.

Throwback Thursday - Reminiscing on Some of My 2019 Blog Posts!!

 

It's been fun reminiscing with regards to the blog posts I've made over the years!! I try to pick some of the most unique posts I've posted to my blog from 2019. Click on the links below to read what I've written.

1. Are Textbooks Obsolete? Food For Thought!

Textbooks being obsolete is something I'd never pondered before. I shared a short video in the above post I published back in 2019 that discusses the topic if you're interested in hearing more.

2. California State Library in Sacramento, California

My husband and I visited the California State Library during National Library Week in 2019. What a fun library to visit!

3. Stanley Mosk Library & Courts Building in Downtown Sacramento, California!

The Stanley Mosk & Courts Building is fabulous place to visit!! It's located across the street from the California State Capitol . My husband and I took the self guided tour of this building during National Library Week. I wrote a detailed post of our visit, which includes several photos.

4. 2019 Bay Area Book Festival - Saturday, May 4 - Day 1

I am so grateful and thankful to have attended the 5th annually Bay Area Book Festival (BABF) in Berkeley, California with my husband! I had attended the Bay Area Book Festival annually since its inception in 2015. The above link takes you to a detailed post with photos of what I saw during day one of BABF.

5. 2019 Bay Area Book Festival - Sunday, May 5 - Day 2

I am so grateful and thankful to have attended the 5th annually Bay Area Book Festival (BABF) in Berkeley, California with my husband! I attended the Bay Area Book Festival annually since its inception in 2015. The above link takes you to a detailed post with photos of what I saw during day two of BABF.

6. Joy Harjo Just Became The First Native American U.S. Poet Laureate

FINALLY, a Native American U. S. Poet Laureate was selected! I've read some of Joy Harjo's poetry and enjoyed them.

7. Thousands Of Books Given Away At A Contra Costa County Library!!!

I still dream about this event!! I had so much fun attending this large scale giveaway at the Pleasant Hill, California public library back in 2019. 

I hope they offer this event again in the future. It was amazing to have such a vast selection of books to search through and take home for FREE!

8. Positive Options for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Self-Help and Treatment by Elena Juris

This is a book review on a health related topic that is near and dear to me. I have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and have been dealing with the various physical pain that comes with this condition since 2009. 

My physical symptoms have varied/fluctuated over the years. This book offers treatment options and so on for those with CRPS/RSD. If you or someone you knows has CRPS/RSD, this book may offer some solution/relief ideas. Click on the above link for my review of Elena Juris's book and my CRPS/RSD journey.

9. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

Rebecca Skloot's work of nonfiction just so happened to be one of many favorite reads of 2019! Check out my review of it, if your so inclined.

10. The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony

Lawrence Anthony's work of nonfiction just so happened to be one of many favorite reads of 2019! Check out my review of it, if your so inclined.

The Red Pony by John Steinbeck

 

I listened to the unabridged audio version of The Red Pony by John Steinbeck and well narrated by Frank Muller.

Listening time for The Red Pony by John Steinbeck is 2 hours, 55 minutes, which made for quick reading!!

I have mixed feelings about The Red Pony by John Steinbeck. John Steinbeck definitely had a way with describing characters, scenes, and situations that were simple, yet vivid. I love that John Steinbeck didn't have to use a lot of fancy language to convey his ideas. I think this is why I originally fell in love with Steinbeck's novel, East of Eden, back in 2008.

However, I was expecting something different with The Red Pony. I thought this novella was going to solely be about Jody Tiflin's (a young boy and main character) relationship with his red pony throughout the entire novella. Instead, The Red Pony is a set of four vignettes about Jody Tiflin, his parents, and their ranch hand, Billy. The red pony is only part of the first vignette. The rest of the novella shares other stories and themes. I think I would have enjoyed the storyline for The Red Pony more if the entire novella was entirely about Jody and his red pony, as a coming of age story, instead of how it was written and presented in its current form. Also, there is some animal cruelty in this novella, so if this is a trigger for you, then skip on reading The Red Pony.

The following is the publisher's summary for The Red Pony by John Steinbeck from Chirp's website:

John Steinbeck’s masterpiece celebrates the spirit and courage of adolescence. Steinbeck draws on his memories of childhood in these stories about a boy who embodies both the rebellious spirit and the contradictory desire for acceptance of early adolescence. Unlike most coming-of-age stories, the cycle does not end with a hero “matured” by circumstances. Reversing common interpretations, The Red Pony is imbued with a sense of loss. Jody’s encounters with birth and death express a common theme in Steinbeck’s fiction: They are parts of the ongoing process of life, resolving nothing.

I am giving The Red Pony by John Steinbeck a rating of 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Two New to Me Little Free Libraries in Lafayette, California!!

Over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, my husband and I found two new to us Little Free Libraries in Lafayette, California.

These LFLs were quick and easy finds for us. One of them was in a really nice neighborhood that included a trailhead we walked on for a short distance as it was fairly flat and easy to walk on.

Have you visited any Little Free Libraries lately?

The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck

 

I absolutely adore East of Eden by John Steinbeck. I read it back in 2008 and have been meaning to reread it again, but I have yet to do so...In the mean time, I decided to read other novels written by John Steinbeck I've never before read. I picked up the unabridged audio version of The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck and narrated by George Guidall.

Listening time for The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck is 3 hours, 43 minutes, making it a very quick read!

The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck is an interesting read. This book take place in an unnamed town that has been invaded by war and occupied by outsiders. It showcases the horrors for both the soldiers occupying this town and the residents forced to work in a coal mine and also starved if they don't work in the coal mine. 

Philosophical ideas are also presented through the dialogue between some of the characters in this novel.

According to the publisher's description, Steinbeck labelled this work as a "celebration of the durability of democracy."

Below is the publisher's summary for The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck from Chirp's website:

Occupied by enemy troops, a small, peaceable town comes face-to-face with evil imposed from the outside–and betrayal born within the close-knit community. Originally published at the zenith of Nazi Germanyâ’s power, this masterful fable uncovers profound, often unsettling truths about war–and about human nature. Steinbeck’s self-described “celebration of the durability of democracy” had an extraordinary impact as Allied propaganda in Nazi-occupied Europe. Despite Axis efforts to suppress it (in Fascist Italy, mere possession of the book was punishable by death), The Moon Is Down was secretly translated into French, Norwegian, Danish, Dutch, Swedish, German, Italian, and Russian; hundreds of thousands of copies circulated throughout Europe, making it by far the most popular piece of propaganda under the occupation. Few literary works of our time have demonstrated so triumphantly the power of ideas in the face of cold steel and brute force.

I am giving The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

The Coffee Killer by A. J. Shaw

I listened the unabridged audio version of The Coffee Killer by A. J. Shaw and narrated by Jordan Gibbs. This is the first book in the 'Motel at the End of the World' series.

The Coffee Killer by A. R. Shaw is a short listen at 3 hours, 26 minutes.

The Coffee Killer is a dystopian novel and it also falls into the mystery/suspense genre as well. Essentially, you have a group of people living at a motel in the middle of nowhere during the end times. A murder takes place at the motel and the motel owner along with the motel's housekeeper try to find out whodunit. A mysterious duo shows up at the motel looking for someone, which adds another layer to the storyline/plot details.

I found this novella to be bland, boring, and not at all captivating enough for my taste. I only finished it because it is short. I will not be reading the rest of the 'Motel at the End of the World' series.

The following is the publisher's summary for The Coffee Killer by A. J. Shaw from Chirp's website:

☕ A small-town motel. A post-apocalyptic world. A murder mystery fueled by the rarest commodity: coffee.

Darrell Riley didn’t ask to inherit a run-down motel at the end of the world. With society crumbling, every transaction is bartered, and coffee is the ultimate currency. When a mysterious guest checks in during a storm and turns up dead, Darrell and his quirky housekeeper, Nance, must solve the crime before the killer strikes again.

As rumors swirl and suspicions rise, each guest becomes a suspect in this cozy post-apocalyptic mystery. Can Darrell keep the peace while surviving a world where coffee is worth more than gold?

Perfect for fans of The Last Policeman by Ben H. Winters and A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, The Coffee Killer blends humor, suspense, and dystopian charm in an unforgettable whodunit.

I am giving The Coffee Killer by A. J. Shaw a rating of 2 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Ivory Chpaters - Subscription Box!!

 

Pretty presentation!

I recently learned about a new to me book subscription box called, Ivory Chapters, which is based in Florida.

You can buy a single book box or sign up for the monthly book subscription box. You are also able to select a genre from the following choices (mystery, romance, spicy romance, fantasy, horror, memoir/nonfiction) for your book subscription OR you may select the 'surprise me' option.

Below is an image from Ivory Chapters, which shows the items included in each book subscription box.

The goodies in each box subscription box!

This looks like an interesting book subscription box! Click on the above link to read more about the Ivory Chapters subscription box.

Author Spotlight - Anne Tyler Interview on CBS Sunday Morning!!

 

This a lovely of Anne Tyler on CBS Sunday morning!! I enjoyed this interview where Anne Tyler discusses her writing and her most recent book, Three Days In June.

If you're an Anne Tyler fan, then checkout this video interview.

Goodreads Giveaways!! I Won Another Book!!

 

I've been a member of Goodreads since 2014. During my tenure,  I have entered many of the free book giveaways and won many free books over the years. 

My most recent win from the Goodreads Giveaways program is The Flip Side by Jason Walz, which is a new, paperback, graphic novel. It looks like a fun read I hope to read later on this year.

I love winning free books, don't you as well?

Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry

 

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry, which is well narrated by Fiona Hardingham.

Once Upon a Wardrobe is my first experience with anything written by Patti Callahan Henry. I was drawn to Once Upon a Wardrobe for two main reasons. The first reason is that Once Upon a Wardrobe is a work of historical fiction and I am a fan of historical fiction. The second reason is its tie in to The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis.

I enjoyed this novel overall. It has a nice plot/storytelling and good characters. However, I wasn't overly captivated by it as I'd hoped I'd be.

Below is the publisher's summary for Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry from the Goodreads website:

Megs Devonshire sets out to fulfill her younger brother George’s last wish by uncovering the truth behind his favorite story. The answer provides hope and healing and a magical journey for anyone whose life has ever been changed by a book.

1950: Margaret Devonshire (Megs) is a seventeen-year-old student of mathematics and physics at Oxford University. When her beloved eight-year-old brother asks Megs if Narnia is real, logical Megs tells him it’s just a book for children, and certainly not true. Homebound due to his illness, and remaining fixated on his favorite books, George presses her to ask the author of the recently released novel The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe a “Where did Narnia come from?”

Despite her fear about approaching the famous author, who is a professor at her school, Megs soon finds herself taking tea with C. S. Lewis and his own brother Warnie, begging them for answers.

Rather than directly telling her where Narnia came from, Lewis encourages Megs to form her own conclusion as he slowly tells her the little-known stories from his own life that led to his inspiration. As she takes these stories home to George, the little boy travels farther in his imagination than he ever could in real life.

Lewis’s answers will reveal to Megs and her family many truths that science and math cannot, and the gift she thought she was giving to her brother—the story behind Narnia—turns out to be his gift to her, hope.

I am giving Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan Henry a rating  of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Bookish Quote of the Day!!

 

Two New to Me Little Free Libraries in Pittsburg, California!!

 

Bread Box Little Free Library

Two Little Free Libraries outside a church.

My husband and I visited Pittsburg, California briefly on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. During our time in Pittsburg, California, we found three Little Free Libraries. The Little Free Libraries we found were either quite picked over or disorganized and not well maintained. I didn't exchange any books.

Have you found any Little Free Libraries lately?

Railroad Book Depot in Pittsburg, California!!

 

Back wall of Railroad Book Depot Bookstore.

My husband and I briefly visited Pittsburg, California on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. During our short time in Pittsburg, California, we visited an independent bookstore called Railroad Book Depot. It was our first time visiting both Pittsburg, California and Railroad Book Depot.

We almost missed Railroad Book Depot... In fact, we did miss it the first go around because there was no signage above the storefront stating the name of the business! So, we drove right by it and had to circle around the block before eventually spotting it.

We arrived a little before 10am in the morning and entered Railroad Book Depot when they opened at 10am. It's a nice sized bookstore with a mixture of both new and used books. They also sell greeting cards and even costume jewelry. Plus, they have local author events.

We took a quick spin around Railroad Book Depot's storefront and were in and out in 15 minutes. I purchased one new paperback book during our visit titled, The Last Letter From Sicily by Lindsay Marie Morris. I learned from the Railroad Book Depot 's website that Lindsay Marie Morris will be at the Railroad Book Depot on Saturday, June 7, 2025 from 12pm - 1pm signing copies of her novel. 

Unfortunately, I won't be around for this in person author event. However, The Last Letter From Sicily does sound like a good novel. It's inspired by true events.

It's also worth noting that teachers and library cardholders receive a 10% discount off of their purchases at Railroad Book Depot! That's kind of cool!

Railroad Book Depot is the first bookstore I've actually been inside of since the pandemic lockdowns in 2020!! Now that I think about it, I hadn't actually walked inside of a brick and mortar bookstore since 2019. 

I've mainly purchased books online or exchanged books at Little Free Libraries since 2020. It was nice to visit a brick and mortar bookstore again.

What's in the bag?

A historical fiction novel!!

Have you visited any new to you independent bookstores this year? Tell me about your bookstore visits in the comment section below.

Throwback Thursday - Reminiscing on Some of My 2018 Blog Posts!!

 It's been fun reminiscing with regards to the blog posts I've made over the years!! I try to pick some of the most unique posts I've shared to my blog from 2018. Click on the links below to read what I've written.

1. 112 Fabulous Russian Writers!!

During my college years, I was a Russian language major and took quite a few Russian literature courses as electives. I eventually graduated with a BA in Russian. I have a special place in my heart for Russian literature and Russian writers. I wasn't surprised to find that Alexander Pushkin took the top spot at #1... He's the cream of crop as far as writers go and it would be difficult to top him as a literary master!

2. Why We Can't Wait by Martin Luther King, Jr.

I read Why We Can't Wait for Black History Month in 2018. 2018 also marked the 50th anniversary od Martin Luther King Jr's assassination. Why We Can't Wait is written in King's own words and is an important work written one of the central figurines of the Civil Rights Movement. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Why We Can't Wait and highly recommend it!

3. The 10 Most Well-Read Cities In The United States

Before viewing the list of the most well-read cities in the USA, I tried guesiing which cities made the list.

4. 2018 Bay Area Book Festival in downtown Berkeley, California!

I have attended the Bay Area Book Festival 5 times and have had an amazing experience each time attending this 2 day event!! Checkout which authors I saw in 2018 by clicking on the link above!

5. My Favorite Author Meeting Experience To Date!

I've been blessed to meet several authors in person at either author signing events at independent bookstores or at book festivals. However, briefly meeting Thomas Steinbeck (eldest son of John Steinbeck) twice in person happens to be one of my most memorable and favorite author meeting experiences ever!

6. American Bookbinders Museum in San Francisco, California

Until 2018, I never knew that San Francisco, California had a bookbinders museum!! It wasn't until I discovered that the American Bookbinders Museum was hosting a literary event, that I first learned about this place. The American Bookbinders Museum is a small museum and fun to visit. Check out the link above for photographs from my visit with my hubby.

7. SF In SF - Science Fiction in San Francisco. - The Perfect Fit!

I'm not a huge science fiction fan, but I am a fan of attending literary and author signing events at local venues within theSan Francisco Bay Area where I reside. 

The SF In SF event is a spectacular event to attend, where science fiction authors gather to give readings of their work and sign books. SF In SF is an ongoing monthly event.

8. Quirky Berkeley by Tom Dalzell

Occasionally, I enjoy reading about local history. 'Quirky Berkeley' is a short, nonfiction book about the very quirky artwork found in the yards of those who reside in Berkeley, California... And let me tell you that the 'quirky artwork' isn't your run of the mill quirky stuff you might expect to find in your average neighborhood yard. No Way! This is full frontal UNIQUE and very QUIRKY artwork that one would come to expect from only those living in Berkeley, California.

I live about 45 minutes away from Berkeley, California. In 2018, my husband and I decided to seek out some of the quirky artwork mentioned in the book. Oh, what fun we had finding four of the works of art mentioned in 'Quirky Berkeley'. Click on the link above to see my post and view the photos of the artwork we saw.

9. 13 Libraries For Book Lovers To Follow On Instagram!!

Do you have an Instagram account? Are you a library and a book lover? Then you may want to follow the 13 libraries for book lovers via Instagram!

10. 12 Literary Nonprofits to Support This Holiday!!

It's a great idea to support literary nonprofits year round. Not just on the holidays!

A Man Burns 100 Public Library Books on Social Media!!

I will never understand people’s need to burn books 📚 in an effort to prevent other people from reading certain books 📚! 

If a person doesn’t want to read a certain book, then fine, don’t read it. But don’t then decide what other people should read on their behalf by burning books!

Additionally, the books that had been burned were public library books! These books are paid for with taxpayer money!! So, I personally found it rude/disturbing/insulting that the man mentioned in the above video burned public library books when it's taxpayers, like us who, pay for these books.

The above video is short and worth watching. The library discussed how it was handling the situation.

P. S. Not sure why the video isn't showing up in my post??? Maybe I can find another version of the video on YouTube?

Top Ten Tuesday - Books That Feature Travel

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme hosted by Jana @ That Artsy Reader Girl. Top Ten Tuesday was originally created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

Below is a list of books I've read, which deal with travel in some form or another. If I reviewed the book here on my blog, you'll see a link, which will take you to my review.

1. Eat Love Pray by Elizabeth Gilbert

I actually loved the movie version better than the book! But Elizabeth Gilbert traveled to Italy, India, and Indonesia, so it's fun to read about her experiences there.

2. Paris, My Sweet: A Year in the City of Light (and Dark Chocolate) by Amy Thomas

I read this book back in 2012 for a book club meet-up. It's nonfiction... A memoir, to be exact. If you're a foodie and you like all things sweets related, then you'll love reading this memoir. Also, if you like both New York City & Paris, you'll enjoy reading this book too. Plus, the author, Amy Thomas, kinda reminds me of Carrie Bradshaw from the hit television series Sex in the City.

3. Kindred by Octavia Butler

If time travel, science fiction and historical fiction is your thing, then this is your read!! I really enjoyed Kindred.

4. The Christmas Train by David Baldacci

I actually enjoyed this holiday themed novel and the story takes place on a cross country train trip from Washington, D. C. to Los Angeles.

5. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne

I love this classic novel and have read it 2-3 times. Under water sea travel via submarine that reads like a scientific journal/travelogue, makes this novel a fun read.

6. The Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Again, if you love time travel + historical fiction, then the 'Outlander' series is your go to series!

7. Spaceman of Bohemia by Jaroslav Kalfar

This novel combines space travel and absurdist fiction for a unique read.

8. The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald

This novel has a main character travel from Sweden to Iowa to live life in a small town.

9. Mayflower Lives by Martyn Whittock

This nonfiction book about the lives of the pilgrims and their journey to America.

10. When Germs Travel by Howard Markel

This nonfiction food covers six different epidemics and how they travel/spread.

The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells Has Been Turned Into a TV Series on Apple TV+

Have any of you read any of the books in 'The Murderbot Diaries' series by Martha Wells? I read the first book, All Systems Read, in 'The Murderbot Series' last July. I have not read the rest of the series at this time.

'The Murderbot Diaries' series falls into the science fiction genre and is told through the view point of a cyborg who has renamed himself, Murderbot. Murderbot is snarky. I love his sense of humor. Murderbot also loves soap operas and has essentially gone rogue... meaning that he has been able to break free from the standard programming protocol to perform exclusively as only a security unit and now functions independently.

Apple TV+ has turned 'The Murderbot Diaries' into a new television series called, 'Murderbot', which I learned about from my husband two days ago. My husband didn't know this new television series is based on a series of books. Nor, did he know that I had already read the first book in the series.

My husband and I watched the first, two episodes of 'Murderbot' and loved them! Both episodes were roughly 30 minutes each and we look forward to watching the rest of the series. New episodes come out on Wednesdays.

If you love sci-fi and/or have read and enjoyed 'The Murderbot Diaries', then maybe the 'Murderbot' series on Apple TV+ will be for you.

I may decide to continue reading the rest of the novels in 'The Murderbot Diaries' after watching the 'Murderbot' television series.

Alta Journal - California Book Club - Gold Fame Citrus by Claire Vaye Watkins

 

So, once again, I found myself attending Alta Journal's California Book Club, which is a monthly online book club event. May's book club selection was Gold Fame Citrus by Claire Vaye Watkins.

The funny thing is I've had Gold Fame Citrus by Claire Vaye Watkins on my reading wishlist since roughly 2018. I haven't read this novel yet. So, I found it ideal to watch this live author event where Claire Vaye Watkins was in conversation with moderator, John Freeman, and author, Karen Russell.

I still want to read Fame Gold Citrus now even more now after watching this online event. Fame Gold Citrus falls into the cli-fi genre and dystopian genre as well.

I also learned that the author's father was part of the Manson Family.

Bookish Quote of the Day!!!

 

Throwback Thursday - Reminiscing on Some of My 2017 Blog Posts!!

 

It's been fun reminiscing with regards to the blog posts I've made over the years!! I try to pick some of the most unique posts I've shared to my blog from 2017. Click on the links below to read what I've written.

1. The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey

I was blown away by just how much I enjoyed reading this book. The writing is exquisite. The author, Elisabeth Tova Bailey, came down with a mysterious virus, which leaves her weak and virtually bedridden for many years. During this time she begins studying mollusks after watching a live snail on a plant she'd been given as a gift. 

2. 8 Hacks For Spending Less While Reading More

I was familiar with 7 of the 8 hacks for spending less while reading more!! But am always on the look out for how to spend less on reading whenever possible.

3. Tender Wings of Desire by Colonel Sanders

I couldn't believe that Kentucky Friend Chicken actually came out with a romance novella featuring Colonel Harland Sanders as a character... I figured this novella would be super cheesy! Seriously, have you seen the book cover?? The book cover is super cheesy looking... However, Tender Wings of Desire by Colonel Sanders was FREE and a short read, so figured what did I have to lose? I could always stop reading this novella if it wasn't very good. Surprisingly though, Tender Wings of Desire by Colonel Sanders was actually decent.

4. Recipe for Murder: Frightfully Good Food Inspired by Fiction by Estérelle Payany

I love the layout and how the information is presented in Recipe for Murder: Frightfully Good Food Inspired by Fiction by Estérelle Payany! A page or two is devoted to the villain, then a short excerpt from where the villain is found in literature is presented, which is then followed by a recipe that would be perfect for the the said villain. Plus, the amazing vintage artwork/graphics by Jean-Francois Martin are sprinkled throughout this book as well. I loved the author's sense of humor too in Recipe for Murder: Frightfully Good Food Inspired by Fiction by Estérelle Payany.

5. Alana Dakos --- Knitter, Knit Designer, Author, Business Owner, Knitting Instructor, & More!

I am a knitter. So, in 2017, I was thrilled to learn that Alana Dakos would be at a local independent yarn store. I was thrilled to meet her in person and have her sign two copies of knitting books she had written!

6. English novelist Kazuo Ishiguro wins the 2017 Nobel Prize in Literature!

Every October, I am on pins and needles waiting to learn who will win the Nobel Prize for Literature... And it's so difficult to know who's going to actually win the Nobel Prize for Literature. Sometimes the Nobel Prize for Literature goes to an author I've heard of before and other times I've never heard of the author before ever... So the news as to the winner's identity of the Nobel Prize in Literature always makes for interesting reading to say the least.

7. Joyce Maynard ~ Author Speaking Event!!

It's so cool that our local, public library has hosted several author events. I had the wonderful opportunity to attend one of these events and meet Joyce Maynard in person. Fun event for sure!!

8. Lisa See ~ Author Signing Event!!

It was so much fun hearing Lisa See speak about her novel, The Tea Girl on Hummingbird Lane, and obtain a signed copy before leaving!!

9. Several Ways Readers Can Support The Women's Movement On 'A Day Without A Woman'

I loved the idea behind 'A Day Without A Woman'!! Click on the above link to read more!!

10. The Roanoke Girls by Amy Engel

I received an advance reader's edition of this novel and loved it!! Amy Engel has become a new favorite writer.

Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? by Jesse Bering

 

Back in 2012 or 2013, my husband and I had been visiting a chain bookstore. While I was perusing the bookshelves for my next read, I just so happened to come across Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? by Jesse Bering. This nonfiction book title is definitely attention grabbing for sure as it made me pause to check it out. 

I've been meaning to read Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? by Jesse Bering ever since. I chose to listen to the unabridged audio version of Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? by Jesse Bering, which is narrated by the author. I thought Jesse Bering could have narrated his book a bit more slowly as I felt like he was speaking too fast paced throughout his book. Otherwise, the author did a good job narrating his book.

Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? is a series of nonfiction essays that cover various topics such as the male anatomy, the function of pubic hair, why humans are one of the only species to have acne, masturbation, fetishes, female orgasms, to green burials, free will, suicide, and the laughter of rats... Plus, so much more!! You're in for a wild ride with these diverse essays.

I like how this book is organized into eight different sections with several essays that fall into each category. For the most part, I found most of the essays interesting. The essays contained bitesized amounts of information, which is perfect for the layperson. Some of the essays weren't as captivating or engaging as other essays. 

Although, I enjoyed Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? overall, it wasn't as captivating as I'd hoped it would be.

Below is the publisher's summary for Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? by Jesse Bering from the Goodreads website:

Why do testicles hang the way they do? Is there an adaptive function to the female orgasm? What does it feel like to want to kill yourself? Does “free will” really exist? And why is the penis shaped like that anyway?

In Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That?, the research psychologist and award-winning columnist Jesse Bering features more than thirty of his most popular essays from Scientific American and Slate, as well as two new pieces, that take readers on a bold and captivating journey through some of the most taboo issues related to evolution and human behavior. Exploring the history of cannibalism, the neurology of people who are sexually attracted to animals, the evolution of human body fluids, the science of homosexuality, and serious questions about life and death, Bering astutely covers a generous expanse of our kaleidoscope of quirks and origins.

With his characteristic irreverence and trademark cheekiness, Bering leaves no topic unturned or curiosity unexamined, and he does it all with an audaciously original voice. Whether you’re interested in the psychological history behind the many facets of sexual desire or the evolutionary patterns that have dictated our current mystique and phallic physique, Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? is bound to create lively discussion and debate for years to come.

I am giving Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That? by Jesse Bering a rating of 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Soon by Lois Murphy

 

I stumbled upon Soon by Lois Murphy by pure coincidence.

After reading the publisher's summary for Soon, I quickly added it to my ever growing reading wishlist.

I quickly added the unabridged audio version of Soon by Lois Murphy to my 'to be read' pile and have been meaning to listen to it since earlier this year.

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Soon by Lois Murphy, which is pleasantly narrated by David Linski.

Soon is set in western Australia in the small town of Nebulah. 

Soon falls into the horror genre, but it isn't what I'd call a

typical horror novel. It's slow paced and more of a slow burn as the plot unfolds over the course of the novel.

Pete, the main character, is a retired cop. Pete is one of six remaining residents of Nebulah. The inhabitants have learned not to go out after dark due to a mist that is nefarious and has the residents confined 

indoors to keep themselves out of harms way.

What the mist actually is and how it works is part of the hook

for this novel. Loads of other events happen throughout Soon and the ending of Soon is sad. Overall, Soon was a good read, but not quite what I expected.

Below is the publishers summary for Soon by Lois Murphy I discovered on Amazon's website:

"On winter solstice, the birds disappeared, and the mist arrived.

The inhabitants of Nebulah quickly learn not to venture out after dark. But it is hard to stay indoors: cabin fever sets in, and the mist can be beguiling, too.

Eventually only six remain. Like the rest of the townspeople, Pete has nowhere else to go. After he rescues a stranded psychic from a terrible fate, he’s given a warning: he will be dead by solstice unless he leaves town—soon.

An intense, atmospheric horror novel in the vein of Richard Matheson and John Wyndham, Lois Murphy’s debut takes readers inside a nightmarish world that will make you question the very nature of your reality."

I am giving Soon by Lois Murphy a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Bookish Quote of the Day!!

 

Dr. Carla Hayden Has Been Dismissed As Librarian of Congress

 

Dr. Carla Hayden is the first woman and the first African-American to be the Librarian of Congress. She was fired yesterday evening by Donald J. Trump via email.

The following video highlights the reason Dr. Hayden had been fired by Donald J. Trump.

Dr. Carla Hayden only had approximately a year and a half left to serve as the Librarian of Congress. Why not let her serve the rest of her term when she was doing a good job?

Below is Dr. Hayden's testimony before congress on May 6, 2025. She sounds like a very articulate and competent librarian to me.

Sadly, Donald J. Trump seems to be dismantling democracy as we know it.

Throwback Thursday -- 10 Random Posts I Blogged About In 2016!!

 

1. 20 Tips On How To Read A Book In A Day!

Here are some tips on how to read a book in a day that you may find useful.

2. Jennifer Garner Reads 'Go the F**k to Sleep'

Actress, Jennifer Garner, performs a dramatic reading of a children's book.

3. 9 Essential Books About Women's Rights

It's always good to know your rights!

4. Stoned: Jewelry, Obsession, and How Desire Shapes the World by Aja Raden

I am a lover of jewelry, nonfiction, and history!! Stoned covers all three topics nicely in a very well written book that's worth a read.

5. Arturo Perez-Reverte Visits Rakestraw Books in Danville, California!

I love attending author events at local, independent bookstores. I enjoyed hearing Arturo Perez-Reverte speak and sign copies of his latest novel at Rakestraw Books.

6. Shalane Flanagan & Elyse Kopecky ~ Author Signing Event at Rakestraw Books in Danville, CA

I had the the honor of attending another wonderful author event featuring 4-time Olympian, Shalane Flanagan, and chef, Elyse Kopecky at Rakestraw Books. Nothing like having a signed copy of hardback book!

7. Essential Titles For Understanding Your Reproductive Rights

Yes, knowing ones rights is essential for sure.

8. Little Free Library in Carpinteria, California!!

My husband and I lived in Carpinteria, California for nearly 16 years before moving to the San Francisco Bay Area. I loved living in Carpinteria and still miss living in this small, coastal beach town. During our tenure in Carpinteria, there weren't any Little Free Libraries... We discovered a few Little Free Libraries had popped up after we moved out of town. I had fun discovering this one while visiting Carpinteria after we had moved away.

9. In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

I enjoyed listening to the unabridged audio version of In Cold Blood. This is another wonderful book I enjoyed in 2016.

10. The Assassination of the Archduke by Greg King & Sue Woolmans

I never would have imagined that a nonfiction book about the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand would be so fascinating!! I loved this book!! It's so well written. If you're a lover of history and nonfiction, I recommend this book.

James Baldwin at 100 - CBS News Sunday Morning

 

I'm a bit late to the party as the above video about James Baldwin came out last year. Check out the above YouTube video to learn more about James Baldwin's life.

I've only read one book written by James Baldwin and would like to read more of them. Have you read any books by James Baldwin? Which ones would you recommend the most?

Audiobooks and How Accessibility Sparked A Revolution!

 

Here's a quick history of the audiobook! Watch the above video I discovered on YouTube.

New to Me Little Free Library in Dublin, California

 

Beautiful, breezy weather this Sunday afternoon!! My husband and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to find at least one new to us Little Free Library today.

The City of Dublin, California has commissioned local artists to paint LFLs, which were eventually placed in public parks around the city. We found one of these LFLs at Jordan Ranch Park... And, what a cute LFL it is!

I loved visiting this park! It has a large field for playing soccer, a volleyball area, basketball courts, picnic area with barbecues, restrooms, and a large, modern playground for children. Jordan Ranch Park has a lovely layout for a park as well. 

Bookish Quote of the Day!!

 

Throwback Thursday - It's All About Trilogies!!

 

I've read quite a few trilogies since I began blogging at the start of 2012. In fact, I've read more trilogies than I thought I'd read. Below is a list of trilogies I've read in no particular order of importance:

1. Wolf Hunt trilogy by Jeff Strand

Jeff Strand is a horror author who had been on my radar for a while.

I finally read the Wolf Hunt trilogy back in October 2021.

This is a fun trilogy and would highly recommend it.

The Wolf Hunt trilogy contains nonstop action from start to finish, which never makes for a dull moment.

If you love the idea of werewolves, then the Wolf Hunt trilogy may be right up your alley! But the Wolf Hunt trilogy is more than just werewolves... Meet George and Lou, low level thugs for hire. George and Lou need to transport a werewolf in human form to its final destination in the first installment of Wolf Hunt when things go VERY WRONG for George and Lou early on. George and Lou are great characters! Bad things seem to happen for them routinely. The fun and nonstop action follow George and Lou into the last two novels in the Wolf Hunt trilogy.

2. Rebel Belle trilogy by Rachel Hawkins

The 'Rebel Belle' trilogy is the most recent trilogy I've read. I started and finished reading in April 2025. The 'Rebel Belle' trilogy had been on my reading wishlist for at least a decade. I'm glad I read it finally... But honestly, I didn't love it like I hoped I would. The 'Rebel Belle' trilogy falls into the young adult, fantasy genre.

3. Angel Catbird by Margaret Atwood

I am a Margaret Atwood fan, which is the main reason I selected this tilogy to read in the first place. I was curious about her comic book series, 'Angel Catbird', and wondered what a comic book series would look like from Ms. Atwood.

The Complete Angel Catbird by Margaret Atwood, Johnnie Christmas, & Tamra Bonvillain is written for kids ages 8-12. I thought the artwork was just okay and the storyline was very simplistic... A half human-rat wants to take over the world with the desire to have rats rule the world. But his plans for world domination are thwarted by half human-cats and owls.

There were a lot of cat puns throughout this series that were funny/cute to begin with, but did grow old after a while. There are also a lot of cat facts sprinkled throughout this comic series that were interesting and informative.

4. The Moon Marked trilogy by Aimee Easterling

Ugh, this trilogy had such high ratings online!! But it was a big flop for me!! Seriously, the narration for this series was the best part of it.

The 'Moon Marked' trilogy falls into the paranormal romance/fantasy genre. There was too much senseless drama/action throughout the entire trilogy for the sake of propelling the plot forward.

5. March (Trilogy Slipcase Edition) by John Lewis

I read March (Trilogy Slipcase Edition) by John Lewis during Black History Month in 2021. By reading the March trilogy, I learned a lot about the Civil Rights Movement with regards to many of the major events. Additionally, I enjoyed reading about many of the major movers and shakers and organizations that helped propel the Civil Rights Movement forward, which eventually lead to the successful passing of both the 1964 Civil Rights Act and 1965 Voting Rights Act.

6. Seal Island trilogy by Sophie Moss

I listened to the audio version of the 'Seal Island' trilogy.

It's set in Ireland on an island and spotlights Irish folktales

and mythology. Overall, a very good series.

7. The Syrena Legacy trilogy by Anna Banks

I enjoyed this young adult, fantasy/paranormal romance series.

The first novel wasn't as good as the two remaining novels in the series. I listened to the audio version, which was well narrated by Rebecca Gibel.

8. His Fair Assassin trilogy by Robin LaFevers

I love the 'His Fair Assassin' trilogy!! All tree novels are addicting to read. Robin LaFevers writes so well. This young adult series will have you sitting on the edge of your seat.

9. Splintered trilogy by A. G. Howard

The 'Splintered' trilogy was loads of fun!! It falls into the young adult genre with elements of sci- fi, fantasy, and paranormal romance! Also, if you're an Alice In Wonderland fan, then this may be the trilogy for you.

10. A Mapwalker trilogy by J. F. Penn

I enjoyed listening to this young adult, coming of age, fantasy trilogy!! All three books were fun.