Cabell County Public Library, Huntington, WV

Find It Fast!

Ronald Worley writes on selecting this read, "Seemed like a new approach to Kaczynski's life. Give it 3 stars out of 5. Lots of new, insightful material, but there's too much background material about the Harvard curriculum, etc. Have to get through that in the middle of the book."

Valerie Solof writes, "Gripping, rambling account of a life most of us have no immediate concept of--growing up a minority white child in Africa. I would definitely recommend this heartfelt, compelling book.”

Jennie Tollett chose this book because she likes "Everybody Loves Raymond." "It was an okay book. Maybe it was just me, but it wasn't as funny as I expected."

Kitchen Confidential: adventures in the culinary underbelly by Anthony Bourdain

Mark Rapp writes, "I saw this book displayed in the library and have seen this chef on the Food Channel. If you eat out a lot, or at all, you must read it!

Kay Dalton selected this book after hearing Swofford read an excerpt during an interview and simultaneously reading rave reviews. "Swofford's memoir about the first Iraq war was a terrific read. He captures the boredom, terror, insanity and brutality of 'his war.' Trained as a sniper, his humanity still remains. This is an extremely literate book that tells great truths about Operation Desert Storm and the men who trained for conflict and their lives both in battle and in peace. This book is not for the faint of heart; it is profane and stinging, but his honesty is devastating."

Initially intrigued by the subject, Jody Clark enjoyed the book, "Finding some of the insights as to motivation and the effects of disease on the minds of creative individuals to be enlightening."

Napoleon's Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History by Penny Le Couteur and Jay Burreson

"I generally enjoyed this book," writes Jody Clark, "particularly the role of specified substances in world history, although I found a great deal of the discussions of chemistry to be rather dry."

John Moorhead writes, "Fire in the Sky really helped me understand more clearly the South Pacific air campaigns of WWII. This professor of military history combines persuasive analysis with participant accounts from the author's own interviews. The interviews provide evocative details about what it was like to be there.

"Several things in the book were surprising to me, for instance, how close the Japanese and allied bases were to each other. The area of combat was much smaller than I had thought, given the size of the Pacific. Also, I had not realized that the jungle cover over which pilots flew was so impenetrable that if you had to go down in it, you were in real trouble, even if you were only a few miles from the base. The concept of the air war being a job for the Americans but an emotional commitment for the Japanese was another telling insight.

Jody Clark would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the role of the untamed American wilderness in the shaping of our national character. He writes, "I thoroughly enjoyed this book, finding Mr. Linklater's observations as to how the obstinance of Americans throughout our history has kept the metric system from being accepted here, as well as his examination of how this obstinancy has defined the role of land ownership and surveying in our culture."

"Bryson is such a wry but willing participant in life's mysteries and delights," writes Valerie Solof. "His comic everyman's foibles are detailed in a witty, folksy manner, yet he always prompts you to think a little deeper and linger longer over occasions we would ordinarily take for granted."

Tammy Neal writes, "Through this book you can see God's awesome power and realize he is in control of all things. Even bad thing can be used for good with God."

Before the Flood: the biblical flood as a real event and how it changed the course of civilization by Ian Wilson

Jody Clark writes, "I thought this book was an excellent, thought-provoking example of how biblical events can be substantiated by a critical examination of the historical record. I would recommend this book to anyone who can look past the literal interpretation of the Bible, and view such events contained there as being part of an overall historical mosaic."

Constantine's Sword: The Church and the Jews: A History by James Carroll

"Although the author is a highly praised novelist, this work of nonfiction has an extensive bibliography and footnotes. It is extremely readable and includes relevant autobiographical information at the author writes of events and personages. This is living history," writes Wendy Moorhead.

"This is a great account of the Apollo 11 lunar landing from the unique perspective of a novelist. It's well written and literary, but Mailer's social commentary is tiring at times and the whole 'psychology of machines' section could be shorter. This book takes you back to the apex of the space program. As with most Mailer works, it lingers and you won't forget it." --Ronald Worley

Greg Wheeler writes, "This retelling of the opening battle of the Iliad is stunning. Less an endless catalog of spear thrusts than a series of Eliotic impressions. I cannot recall images of pain described so beautifully. To be sure, the sections that require NOTES (again, a touch of Eliot) are academic, and these allusions leave me repeating my mantra: it's 2003; people don't read Dryden. Still the book is worth reading, especially in the midst of a fake war on terror."

Chosen by Greg Wheeler because "it's THE standard book on boxing. This book is some of the most effortless prose I've read in a while. In the introduction, Liebling places his writing within the context of Pierce Egan's writings on the sport of boxing, giving his opinions the added weight of 100 years of history. The essays deliver the goods, allowing the uninitiated a glimpse into the grace and brutality that is THE SWEET SCIENCE. Liebling's appreciation of boxing reminds me of the kids today and their deep love of the underground music. Mess with either of 'em, and you'll pull back a bloody stub. Plus, there's loads of great writing about two other great topics: food and clothes. (Unfortunately, you have to ILL this book right now. The library doesn't have a single copy.)

Karen Ramsey writes, "This book has more information on all aspects of the causes, understanding and treatments of asthma than any other book I checked out. It offers holistic and alternative treatments as well as several appendices. Having been published in 1998, however, it was not up to date on the latest medications, nor were any of the others. I would recommend it for its breadth of information.

Ronald Worley writes, "Kept my interest--read 100+ pages per setting, but Updike is an extremely oversexed novelist. This was the first novel I've read by Updike. I doubt I'll read another. Great story, but the rest is pornography. Two stars out of 5."

Sheila Redling writes, "Some books make you look at yourself and laugh. Others make you look at yourself and cringe. This book does both, all the while making you look at others and say 'Hmmm...' This is a funny, unflinching look at being an American in Paris. If you have ever felt alien, this book is for you."

Jennie Tollett thought this book was very good. "It kept you on the edge of your seat wondering how Amanda's sister really drowned."

Sidney Polan selected this book because Phillips is a NYT bestselling author and because she liked the cottage on the cover. Breathing Room is a fun read--characters larger than life, meeting and romancing. Nothing unexpected happened, but a fallen self-help author and a Hollywood villain make for a great duo and the writing is clever. This is a great beach book!

Ronald Worley was eager to read a Zadie Smith novel. His impression: "Another story about young people for young people. The angst-ridden generation X. Dripping with postmodernism. Good story, however, though Zadie is overrated." On the Worley scale, it rated 2 1/2 stars out of 5.

Sidney Polan writes, "Every woman should keep a copy of this book on her nightstand. No one else could have as much trouble as Rachel Jensen. Makes our own lives glow in comparison. Beautifully written, too compelling to put down."

Sue Pfaffenberger writes, "Very good! Holds your interest all the way. You get involved with the characters. It has action, suspense and humor."

Jody Clark writes, "I thought this was an engrossing work of suspense, which combined elements of David Morrell with a study of the cryptic underpinnings of history, both religious and secular, Templar lore, and the continuing influence of ancient Goddess worship. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to others, as long as they are able to keep an open mind in reading it and not allow some of the controversial aspects of its subject matter to cloud their judgment of the overall story."

"This is a wonderful book," says Sheila Redling. "The language and writing style are simple and elegant; the story is compelling. The story moves you backwards through time from present day to the moment the painting was inspired. As soon as I finished the book I was tempted to begin it all over again, to revisit the questions that the ending had answered. It's a short read (one indulgent afternoon on the couch) but satisfying.

"I loved this book and actually would recommend it. It's an insight into the lives of women who work in a NC textile factory--it's about beginnings, endings and endurance."--Sidney Polan

Sidney Polan writes, "If you are only going to read one book this summer, and you are a middle-aged woman, this book is it. Those prosaic events, losing your husband to another woman, losing your job--an opportunity to grow??? Yes!! A profile in grace and humanity.

Lisa Black writes, "I thought this book that the author calls 'moral fiction' was wonderful. The story was beautifully told. It was both touching and thought provoking. I would definitely recommend this book. If you enjoy books by Nicholas Sparks, you would enjoy any of the books written by John Michael Pratt."

After viewing "The Scarlet Letter" on DVD, G.G. Belcher wanted to read more stories by the same author. "The stories are quaint and are fascinating as a reflection of a more naive time in the past. I read some of them in American Literature class at MU years ago, and I like to re-read them occasionally. I disagree with many of the Puritans' attitudes expressed, but one grows mentally by considering many opinions. I certainly recommend the book to most people."

Merlyn Marten writes, "Everything a historical novel should be. If the Spartans weren't really like this, they should have been. Like all well-done historical novels, it makes you want to find out which characters are based on fact and which were created for the story (I wish Pressfield had shared that information in an epilogue). Highly recommended for anyone interested in history."

"When a series is good, I like to read them all. When a series is great, I HAVE to read them all."--Larry Kendall's theory of reading for pleasure.

"Harry Potter is the son every mother would like to have--polite, intelligent and capable of saving the world. In this, the fifth installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry is pulled kicking and screaming into adulthood. He's discovered 'girls' and like every other young man, he doesn't really know what to do with them and he doesn't 'understand' them.

On top of that, he's once again forced to battle 'he who must not be named.' The ministry of magic has initiated new rules for Hogwarts and they are out to get Professor Dumbledore because he dares to say that 'he who must not be named' has returned. The newest instructor of the Dark Arts class is a real pill. You know something will have to happen to her, you just keep hoping it is sooner rather than later. All the rumors are true, someone important dies valiently. Of course, I can't say who. You'll have to read it to find out for yourself.

Get ready for a long read. The Order of the Phoenix is 870 pages in length. Expect a few late evenings. As with the previous four, once you start, you won't put it down until you finish it."

Sean Hunt writes, "This book was an excellent addition to the ongoing adventures of 'the boy who lived.' In this, the fifth book of the series, Rowling fills out the character, maturing him into a 15 year old with the emotions and characteristics common to that awkward period. The story continues the plot set firmly in motion in the fourth book in a way that keeps you wondering what will happen next. All in all, it was a great read and I look forward to the next installment in the series."

Ronald Worley writes, "Not one of Robbins' best. It's one of his shorter novels, and that may be its fault. Robbins is best when he has a lot of room to meander around. Wicked comments about the government are cloaked in his narrative, which is probably the most fun part of this novel."

"The main character was outrageous at times!" writes Wendy Walls. "I caught myself laughing out loud on many parts. I recommend this book to anyone who is not faint at heart or easily offended! The book's main idea stays consistent throughout."

Greg Wheeler read stellar reviews of this book in The New Yorker and Harper's. "What better way to kick off a summer of snotty reading?" Greg asked. (Evidently, there are better ways) "I didn't particularly care for this book. The romance takes topsy-turvy paths that don't seem realistic. I don't mind overly emotional characters or ones especially prone to shaking/crying when touched by a lover, but these two just seemed too much. Some of the sensory details are nice, but I wouldn't recommend this book.

Kay Dalton writes, "I liked the writing very much: Erdrich's themes of humanity at their best and worst. Delphine's life is the heart of this novel as she gives so much to many as her destiny unfolds without many conscious decisions being made. I would recommend this book to those who like words spun into a grand tale spanning decades."

Amy Reich thought it was a good book overall. "A couple of the stories are a little mushy for my personal tastes but the rest are just sweet stories that should be read or told by everyone at least once, sort of like traditional Christmas stories are."

Sydney Polan loved this book and highly recommends it. "This book you read until you finish. You really don't want to take a break. It's the story of a woman named Isabel, embarking on and exploring a second marriage while coming to terms with the tragic end of her first. Near the beginning of the book her father says to Isabel, 'Whatever it is you can do, you do. You don't blame yourself, and don't blame other people for not doing more.' The book seems to me to be Isabel's journey to seeing the truth in what her father said."

Lionel Hill writes, "The book was easy to read because of the short stories. It was easy to keep on track of each story. I always enjoy Louis Lamour as he's one of the best western writers."

Bonnie Parsons writes, "Spencer is called upon to locate a friend's missing mother. The search to locate her reveals a past that may be very painful. Exciting and at times humorous, Parker always holds your attention."

Wendy Walls writes, "The book is funny and descriptive. It describes the ins and outs of a nanny in an elite, upscale neighborhood in New York City. I would recommend this book to anyone who has ever babysat small children."

"I enjoyed reading this book," writes Lisa Black. "The historical setting was interesting and the characters blended well with those already established in an earlier series. I would recommend this book, especially if you've read the Reardon Brothers series."

Martha Stump has already recommended this book to friends. "I was impressed with the short stories and/or experiences of so many people. In fact I think the whole thrust of the book is to know there is always reason to be hopeful. There were stories that brought tears to my eyes and there were stories that made me laugh a loud. What a book!! The comments at the end of many of the stories were so profound that I wanted to memorize them for future reference."

Debra S. Williams writes, "I think this is one of (Lori Wick's) best books. Her characters were very strong. I love the way she quotes scripture. She uses many verses I don't understand, then explains them. She is my favorite author. Sophie, the main character, was so strong in her faith. I learned a lot from her."

Sandra Clements recommends this book to others, "especially those who are struggling with religious and relationship issues and hope they can find something in the book to help them. I really enjoyed the book. The characters were 'real' and I could identify someone in my life similar to each character in the book. The book was easy to read and allowed me to experience a whole range of emotions, sadness, fear of the unknown, laughter and comfort and peace. But I was quite disappointed with the ending of the book when she skipped ahead seven years and left out how she handled her father coming back into her life, Ma Grand's death and most importantly her marriage and birth of her two children--stressful times in her life when she needed faith, love and trust to get her through to the last chapter."

"I was so motivated and inspired by this book organized in a date book format," writes Martha Stump. "This is a book I would like to own because it is timeless. By following this basic decorating book, one's home and life could certainly be improved greatly...The profound quotations for everyday give me the knowledge to look at the big picture in life. Homes don't have to be huge and expensive to be happy and beautiful."

Martha Stump enjoyed this book. She writes, "I felt the struggle the husband endured while trying to save money for the beautiful pearls was greatly appreciated by the wife. Duncan and Lizzie's love was strong and beautiful. It lasted all their lives with God's grace. I would certainly recommend this book. It would make a lovely wedding gift proving that there are always rewards and consequences based on what we do in life."

Angela Pino writes, "This book was very good. One of the main characters, Lily, was a very good Christian woman who put others before herself. It makes me stop and try to put others before myself. Even though this character is fictional, I would still like to try and model myself after her. I would recommend this book to other people."

Brenda Boyles writes, "I enjoyed this book. This is a book in a series that tells stories of imaginary people and places involved with the "Mother Road," old Route 66. Since all of the interstates have come through, not many people travel the original Rt. 66. Therefore, the mayor comes up with a publicity idea to break a previous record of number of marriages during the summer...lots of mishaps, romance and faith in God!"

"A very good book. I like knowing how the characters grew in faith. Very well written. You can laugh, cry, be mad and shocked all in one book." --Debra S. Williams

Lisa Black writes, "I truly enjoyed reading this book. The story was full of thrills, suspense, mystery and romance. Just when I thought I had it all figured out the author threw in another twist. I would definitely recommend this book."

Debra S. Williams writes, "Good story line. I like finding out what happens to people in the story. To watch how people overcome the struggles they face. This series hits close to home. Only I lost my grandfather in the war. I know what my grandmother and others went through being alone."

"I enjoyed reading this book very much. The story had mystery, thrills and romance. I would recommend this and other books by Kristen Heitzmann." --Lisa Black

"Everyone should read this," writes Debra S. Williams. "You will cry with the parents; be amazed by the young girl's faith; and cheer on the old bum. I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading more of this author's work."

Charlene Gross writes, "I really enjoyed this book. I completely related to the heroine, Penelope Featherington. Even though we are from two different times and places, I related to her painful shyness and her life as a wallflower. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that wishes to be caught up in a charming and witty story. Be prepared to laugh and cry out loud."

Charlene Gross writes, "I thought this book was very romantic and funny. I actually found myself laughing and crying out loud. The heroine, Judith, was such a strong person despite her very troubling childhood. The elders within the story provide constant humor throughout. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to get away fro a while."

"Emotional and compassionate, The Kiss shapes a tragedy into a love story you can't put down. A love story combined with mystery and deceit--is there anything else that would make a love story more appealing?" asks Bonnie Parsons.

Carole Hunt writes, "I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Between Lovers was the first of Dickey's books that I have experienced. I'm sure I would have enjoyed the book itself, but the performer, Dion Graham, made the experience SO much better. Graham does an excellent job handling the varied voices in the book. Dickey's writing relies heavily on dialogue chocked full of emotion and passion, which Graham portrays very well. The main character, a writer is trying to find his way after his fiancé leaves him at the altar. Even though she stopped the wedding, she still is very much in love with him, as well as her female lover. This story is about their triangle, the struggle to find a way to make their love work, and moving on. If your summer isn't hot enough already, try this."

"Great!" writes Bill Patton. "Harry Bosch in retirement with a twist at the end."

Sue Pfaffenberger calls this "a real eye opener! An enjoyable way to learn about a real environmental problem. Lots of action and suspense. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who likes to read and think."

Bill Patton says it's not as good as Mystic River but it's still a great mystery. "It led me down the primrose path till the end."

"Very well written. 3 1/2 stars. Gripping at times and never dull. Great look at 1970s hippie clan and the "Lord of the Flies" type assault on "Utopia." --Ronald Worley

Wendy Moorhead writes, "The first of four (so far) mysteries by the author, a professor of medical law at the University of Edinburgh. They are all set in Botswana where the author taught law. The story is interesting and Botswana, a fascinating country, is described."

Mary Deal writes, "Very interesting. Keeps your attention. It's a real page turner without the gutter language so often found in mystery. Recommend it to all."

"Those who enjoy reading about natural foods, crafts, etc. would enjoy this book," writes Mary Ann Ramsey. "The mystery wasn't compelling but I'd still recommend it. It has a really good explanation about what strip mining does to the areas around it."

"This was a very enjoyable read," writes Carole Hunt. "This introduction into the life of Samantha Shaw was quirky, funny and suspenseful. Readers of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels will enjoy Sam's lively character. Readers are introduced to Sam., her two boys, her grandfather, a mother who refuses to accept that her daughter owns a dating service and a very hot Italian ex-cop who causes sparks to fly as they become partners in crime. I am looking very forward to reading the next installment of this series."

Jennie Tollett writes, "I loved this book. I started reading it early Tuesday afternoon and couldn't put it down. I finished it Tuesday p.m. It was full of action, suspense, never a dull moment. And you just have to love the main character, Stephanie Plum. I highly recommend this book."

"Interesting, but somewhat unsatisfying mystery set in the Europe of the fire and crusade. It suffers somewhat from 'hard to believe' plot developments. As a mystery it is somewhat lacking. I would recommend it to someone interested in novels about the Middle Ages, but only after they've read all the Ellis Peters' 'Brother Cadfael' novels."--Merlyn Marten

Doris Ball writes, "I really enjoyed this book. It brought satisfaction because it was about the average guy getting justice for a wrong committed against his family (brother). He stood up to the rich and powerful and prevailed against them to reveal a cover-up of murder."

Science Fiction & Fantasy

Paris Webb writes, "This science fiction, fantasy adventure book, like all good ones in its genre, besides being wonderfully entertaining, makes its readers think about their lives and indeed, life itself. What would you do differently if you had the chance to live your life over again, keeping the same memories from your first time around? Now imagine doing that over and over again. What would you do with your second, third, fourth...life? What would you do differently? The same? This is exactly what happens to Jeff Winston, who at age 43 suffers a heart attack, dies, and wakes up a college student again in 1963! With his whole life to live again, what will he do?

I would recommend this book for sheer entertainment alone, but can also recommend it for the thought-provoking questions it begs each of us to ask about our own lives, the choices we make and how we choose to spend our time here on earth. While not being at all preachy, Grimwood makes his readers stop and consider the ramifications that each decision we make has one us as individuals as well as the impact that we have as individuals on the rest of the world.

This book is a fun read! Plus, it's a great reminder that we all have more choices about the quality of life we lead than we often realize. I defy anyone who reads this book not to make at least one change, major or minor, in his own life."

"I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of the gypsy-like Edori," writes Karen Ramsey. "Some of the story line, such as the 'blossoming love' between Gabriel and Rachel is rather predictable, but the novel is all in all a good read. An unusual and exciting premise."

Karen Ramsey writes, "An excellent book. Not at all like the inside cover blurb, though, the focus is elsewhere. Not a traditional happy-ever-after ending, which I like. Some real twists and turns, great character development. Ridley doesn't treat his readers like children who are afraid of the dark, but instead digs deeply into death, pain and obsession."

General Non-Fiction

Memoir – Biography

Romance - Erotic

Science Fiction – Fantasy

Science Fiction & Fantasy