Enemy Of The People: Book Review

The Enemy of the People
By Jim Acosta
Purchased copy from Kindle


I was excited to learn Jim Acosta was publishing his memoir about covering the president since 2016. I don't know what I was expecting. I was a bit disappointed. The book seemed to re-hash everything I knew about. I found the book dry in parts and not too interesting. If you are a political hound like me. I recommend you don't buy it. You can find everything about his experiences on CNN, and Youtube.



Mr. Acosta talks about some friendships he has lost because of the political climate we are in now. He talks about rallies and tactics that Mr. Trump uses to rile up his base.  Some of it is frightening to think a President can do, or say anything without consequences to the audience. The Journalists and reporters become the center of attention at his rallies to rile up the audience. What CNN did to protect Mr. Acosta when he was sued by the President



Thank you, Mr. Acosta, for standing up for the PEOPLE. You are not the Enemy of the People, The President of the United States is. Thank you, and others like you that stand up to his lies and make him accountable. You put the pressure on him, and others in his cabinet. Unfortunately, Mr. Acosta has become the news. That is one thing a reporter is taught in Journalism. You don't want to make yourself part of the story. Unfortunately, with this president, you don't have a choice.



The only way you make the President accountable. Is to question him. When you question him, you will be attacked by what is not favorable to him. Instead, he spits nails and fights back. We need more journalists to fight back for Freedom of the Press. Unfortunately, there are journalists that are competitive and want to win favors to the president and has sold out journalism. Just to get the story for fame. Thank g-d, some like Mr. Acosta, and Ms. Ryan stand up for the people, and our constitution.

Love Mayor Pete: Book Review-Shortest Way Home

Shortest Way Home
By Pete Buttigieg



I remember the first time I saw this young man on TV. I didn't like him too much. I thought he was smug and conceited. I thought he was saying that the older folks don't matter. I thought he felt we were infallible and insignificant. After I watched him more and more at other town halls and TV appearances. I realized I didn't give him a chance. I like what he has to say. Mayor Pete as he likes to be called. Has lived in South Bend all his life in Indiana. He is a very intelligent young man. He is a Rhodes Scholar, He was in the Navy Reserves in Afghanistan. All at the age of 37. And of course, he is a Mayor of South Bend, Indiana. He has been elected two times. He is a gay man, happily married about a year ago to Chasten with two dogs.

Mayor Pete is well qualified with being a mayor and serving in the military. He seems to be believable, good character, good morals, honest, good character, well mannered, and humble.  After watching him more and more for the last few months.  I am behind Mayor Pete.

What else can be added that hasn't been said. He is magic to my ears. He is a breath of fresh air. He is very unique than the rest of the pack( up to 20 I think) He has a great love for his city, as mayor of South Bend.

Besides his political aspirations. There is a man. He is totally opposite of any politician I have heard before. He is genuine, he has character.

His religion does play a part in his genuineness. You can hear it when he speaks. He does not push his belief on others. Which is one subject I wish he wrote in his book.

He has demeanor without anger. Which is what attracted me to him at first.  Then the other qualities accentuated everything else. Besides at the age of 37. He is an old man living in a young man's body. Perhaps it has to do with his parents being academics, an only child.

He has all the traits our current president doesn't. He is college educated, Rhode Scholar, served as mayor in South Bend. Served in the Navy as a reservist for seven months. He also ran for head of DNC. All of this before the age of 40.

At the beginning of his book. I wasn't thrilled with the writing. He kept jumping around. Then after a while, he seemed to get his footing.

I enjoyed reading his book because he gave me hope for our country. I actually wanted to buy Audible to listen to his words, as well as reading. I felt it would have brought his emotions to his book.

 I have seen him in all the town halls since he has announced he is running for president. I enjoy listening to his hope and aspirations for this country.

I am not only reviewing the book. But, also what I think of Major Pete. He can hold his own. He knows how to defend his character as well as what he wants for our country to lead as a young man.

At first, I wasn't thrilled with him. I felt he was isolated us older folks behind. Feeling like we were irrelevant. After I got past that. And realized that wasn't what his intention was. I was all in for Pete.

What he has is he is a young, innovative, data-driven, and new ideas, business-oriented young man. He worked as a data-driven consultant. Which I think will bring new ideas to government. I am tired of the old stuffy old men running our country. They are old fashioned and keeping us behind. Its time for a change. The old men think we think like they do, no! They are behind the times. (BTW, I'm in my early  60's).

The other subject, I don't sway for just to pigeon hole a person. If the person is a man, woman, gay, straight, African-American, Catholic, Muslim, Jewish, etc. I vote for the person. If he can do a good job.

There are many more candidates I am leaning toward him, and Elizabeth Warren. I will see what others bring to the table in a couple of weeks.

Book Review: Furious Hours

Furious Hours
By Casey Cep
Review copy from Random House


First, let me explain the controversy about Harper Lee, and To Kill a Mockingbird. The book was a heartwarming novel about a little girl named, Scout. Her father was a lawyer in a small town. He was trying a case against a black man. The book was adapted into a movie as the same name. As far as anyone knew To Kill a Mockingbird was her first, and only novel.

There were many stories out there about Harper Lee. But, no one knew for sure. In 2015 the speculation was over. She published her novel. It is said this was actually her prequel to Kill a Mockingbird.

I had wanted to read Furious Hours for months when I first heard about it. I didn't know what to expect. All I knew it was in connection with Harper Lee and a crime, Wow! That intrigued me

 I thought to myself why would she go from writing literary fiction to crime non-fiction. I totally forgot that her father worked for a newspaper in Alabama. Also, she helped her friend the famous writer, Truman Capote write in Cold Blood. I realized she does have the expertise. There has been so much speculation for years why she never wrote another book.


Here is the murder article from the NYT.


The book, Furious Hours does open the door to some unanswered questions. But, still, at the end, you realize nobody really knows why she never published" The Reverend". She had done her research and gathered so much information. There was no reason she didn't publish it.

The book opens up to three parts, the actual crime. The second part was the lawyer who tried the case. And the third was Harper Lee herself. The first part felt like I was reading a John Grisham novel.


SPOILER **************SPOILER*************************SPOILER***************

 In the 1970s a serial killer was on the loose. A suspected Afro-American Preacher named, Reverend Willey Maxwell. He was accused of murdering his family, but why??

After killing many different people in town who actually felt that he put a hex on people because of voodoo. He Apparently had killed several people for insurance money. He collected several thousands of dollars. And he's lawyer helped him get away with the murders. He also tried the man who killed Rev. Maxwell.  Apparently back then you could insure anyone. It didn't have to be a relative. He got away with it for years. No one was interested in a black man committing several crimes. At least that is the way Casey Cep portrays the town and the criminal system in Alabama.

Several times the preacher, Reverend Maxwell was tried. Several times he was acquitted. When the trial opened up for Mr. Burns trial. Who was sitting in the audience at the courthouse of the trial of Mr. Burns? None other than Harper Lee. She thought she could write a book about the crime. Not the way Truman Capote wrote In Cold Blood. Apparently, the book was full of holes. She wanted to write a book full of truths, not made up facts. She accused Truman of not being truthful. She had left NYC to her native Alabama.  She stayed in Alabama digging up and gathering research for her book.

Casey Cep was writing a story for the Atlantic. It was here, she went to Alabama to write a piece about Harper Lee's last novel, Go Set The Watchman. It is also here where she got the idea for a book. Where she learned about the murder case Harper Lee was working on for years and never published.

I enjoyed reading the book. The way it is written. It is like three stories in one. The author you can tell was obsessed with Harper Lee's work. She did a lot of research. At first, I didn't understand why the author was talking about insurance. As you get further in the book it does make it interesting. Especially when she talks about the area where the crime happened. Background info.  about the Reverend, and the history of the industry of insurance. The author writes so much background info. concerning the case( why, where, when, and how). I don't think I ever read a book like this one before. With such detail. You can tell she put her whole heart into the book because of her love of Harper Lee. You can also say the book is a biography of Harper Lee. Some details are answered. But, some are still unanswered questions about the author will never be known.

I recommend Furious Hours to anyone that is a Harper Lee fan. Also, anyone that loves true crime, and loves research. You will enjoy reading, I guarantee you.

The Gown: Book Review

The Gown
By Jennifer Robson
ARC from Harper Collins









I picked The Gown after an ARC came to my mailbox for our book club. Our book club will be discussing the book in June.

 It was ironic I picked the novel before Prince Harry and Princess Meghan delivered their first child.  We have been reading very serious books lately. I wanted us to read something a bit lighter. I enjoyed reading, The Gown. The book if you think is about Princess Elizabeth you will be disappointed. The book is about the relationship of two ladies that worked at the famous fashion house called Hartnell. The fashion house was picked by the monarchy to make Princess Elizabeth's gown.

The book drew me in from the first page. It has fashion, mystery, suspense, and romance rolled into one. In 1947 after the war, when England and Europe are picking up the pieces. English monarchy has a wedding to plan for their daughter, Elizabeth, and Phillip. The monarchy decides to use the fashion house, Hartnell. The book starts at present in 2016. Something is left for Heather by her Grandmother. Heather picks up and leaves for England. To find out what the connection is to her Grandmother and the gown.

I picked The Gown hoping it would be light reading. Getting away from WW2, and the Holocaust. Wouldn't you know? One of the characters was a camp survivor. But, luckily it wasn't heavy-handed.

The story is divided from past and present. Also divided by the three people, Anna, Mariam, and Heather. I think the author did a wonderful job setting up the book and the writing technique that kept you captivated to almost the end of the book.  I always check out books after I read. To research and find out the actual events, and people. 📚

The best part of the book was the description of the Cathedral, the wedding ceremony, the description of the gown. I could actually feel like I was there.👰

SPOILER ALERT

The two characters Anna, and Miriam are not real characters. My cyberfriend was so upset about it she let me know how she felt. I agreed. After I post I'm certainly going to do research on the fashion house, the gown, and the seamstress that is mentioned in the book. Now, Betty Foster is real. She did work at the fashion house. At the end of the book the author has a Q\A.

 I don't want to set up the story because I'm afraid I will spoil it for you.

I don't usually read women's fiction, or a beach read. I think the book had more meat to it than other novels that are called Women's fiction. I was fascinated and loved the book. Perhaps more so because I love historical fiction, specifically, British. Also, I was watching the Netflix series, The Crown in my head while reading. I haven't watched the third season yet. So, here is my excuse.

Book Review: Truth in our Times

Truth in Our Times
By David E. McCraw


Complimentary Copy from:
Netgalley, All Points Books
(St. Martin)


The book gave me insight into what a lawyer actually does for a newspaper. If you work for one of those newspapers, NYT, Washington Post, etc. It is a good idea to have a lawyer to back you up. What is important that a lawyer is used for is the first amendment( right of free speech). One thing that is challenged by our President, and the DOJ on a daily basis.

The author, David E. McCraw is a good lawyer to have at your side. When you work for the paper. There are many dangerous situations you may find yourself, as a journalist. You are kidnapped by terrorists, the government wants to sue for leaked info. How is that handled? The information act, the government refuses to release the info. Lawyers must take it to court because the government refuses to release the papers. 

The most important info brought in the book. How much our President has challenged the first amendment. How very important free speech, and freedom of the press is. If we don't have newspapers, and journalists to challenge our government. The most important, the local newspapers are gone. The local papers are no longer needed financially. Corruption is easy to take over in the local governments. Since newspapers aren't around for transparency and accountability.

The book is not a fun book to read of course. It is dry for the common reader. If you were aware of the examples of the first amendment under fire. You could relate to what the author was talking about. There were several situations the author used examples. Where I didn't know what he was talking about. If I had, I think I could relate better. If you are a lawyer. I recommend the book anyone who wants to know about the law and the first amendment. 

At times the book is dry. But, that could be because I don't have a real understanding of the law.At times the book was a bit confusing what was going on. But, I got the main objective. The author is the same author that wrote an op-ed to President Trump.  I am an advocate of free speech and freedom of the press. The book just added my core values of freedom of both. We must continue not allowing the president to call the press, enemy of the people. that is a dangerous thing to say in our divisive country. Yes, there is definitely fake news. Which I call it out, and say lies. But when news report you question. Do your own research. President Trump lies all the time. Fox News has become Mr. Trump's mouthpiece. When something doesn't sound right to you, check it out first and don't spread the news that you know is false. Check it first before posting. 

Book Review: Rust and Stardust

Rust & Stardust
By T. Greenwood

Complimentary copy
from Publicist: St. Martin







Rust & Stardust is a historical fiction novel written by the author, T. Greenwood. The book was a difficult book to read. It is based on a true crime in  Camden, NJ in 1948. It was a kidnapping of Sally Horner. She was kidnapped and finally escaped after two years.

To me, the story itself was not the takeaway. The take away is what to tell your children how to be cautious of strangers. It gave you a perspective of what it was like to be kidnapped. What to do and what not to do when you are kidnapped. What to teach your child. What to do, and not do as a parent as well. What innocent bystanders can look for, and what to do in situations like this.

I don't know what it was like during the 1940s and '50s. Were mothers so naive to allow a perfect stranger to take their daughter on vacation?  Part of the problem was Sally Horner's mother had so many physical ailments. She didn't have a husband to lean on. She had an elder daughter about to be married.  Sally was a lonely child. I think her mother was just happy that another friend took an interest in her. When the situation came up. Her mother was overjoyed that Sally was going down the shore with her friend She didn't think it was suspicious.

*************SPOILER Alert*******************************************************


Sally was a lonely little girl(not sure how old she was). She wanted to feel like she belonged. It is the awkward age of young adolescence. When a group of girls she knew asked her if she wanted to join them at Woolworth. She joined in and went with them to Woolworth. While there they told her she had to do a dare. To steal something, Sally decided on a notebook. While sitting at the lunch counter. A stranger was observing all this. As Sally went out of the door. The stranger followed her out the door and grabbed her. He told her he was an FBI agent and saw what she had done. Sally was so scared. She believed everything the FBI agent told her. He told her he was taking her to jail.

There were so many times she could have told her mother what was going on. Before he grabbed her. But, LaSalle terrorized her. He told her if she told anybody her family would be in danger. He took her to Maryland. After a while, she became suspicious about Frank. But, it was too late. He started doing things to her that I will not say( but you can imagine without me saying. He was basically a pedophile. Before the word was used.

 After the summer he put her in a Catholic School. A sister started to become suspicious. There was a chance that Sally could have told Sister. But, she was too frightened to. The Sister eventually reported it to her superiors. They transferred her to another school, basically, she was punished for telling the truth. They then went on the run to Texas.

Where again someone became suspicious. Each time, and situation Sally could have done something to run away. But, she didn't have the instincts to know what to do.

 The best part of you want to call it the best part. Her sister had a good husband. He was persistent about trying to track down Sally. He never stopped. He really cared about his little Sister-in-law. You would think he was the family. He seemed more concerned about Sally more than anyone.

The story is a cautionary tale about what to do, and not do to teach children to keep safe when approached by a stranger. Nowadays, I don't think this would have happened so easily. Parents and schools teach children safety measures when approached by a stranger. I hope children are not so naive. I was thinking about how stupid the mother was to allow a stranger to take her child. Without checking it out first.

The book was a page-turner and was predictable what happened to Sally. I am not going to tell you the ending, and spoil it for you. It was such a depressing book. I don't think I will ever forget it. The book is not for everyone. If you are looking to read about true crime. Then the book is for you. If you don't like a depressing book than the book is not for you.

 I remember, in the '90s when my son was born. I had to have three eyes in the back of my head. I would not let my son leave my side. This was in Miami. I remember that was the time. Little children were going missing all the time. Strangers were picking up kids and kidnapping little children. Every day you would hear the news reports.

  I still remember I was in the store. My son was about 4. I couldn't find him. Children don't know any better. I couldn't find my son in a small store. I was looking, and looking for him. I was in a panic. I couldn't find him. Finally in about 10 min. Mom, here I am peek-a-boo.  He was hiding under the carousel of clothes. I was so scared. I was always worried in the back of my mind while my son was small someone was going to pick him up. Thank g-d it never happened. The book is a good book discussion I think for young mothers. To think about how to talk to kids about strangers.

Book Review: The Tattooist of Auschwitz

The Tattooist of Auschwitz
By Heather Morris

My Copy




Everyone has been raving about The Tattooist of Auschwitz. I originally didn't want to read it. I have read so many holocaust books.

I finally broke down and bought a copy. I broke down and picked it for our book club. I should have gone by my instincts. The writing style was very juvenile. I felt it was geared to young adult. But, because of the subject matter. The book was unrealistic. Even though the author says its true. I think the subject who she researched took liberties to build himself up.  I as a Jew don't feel he was a hero. Any Jew would feel the same way. He took advantage of the situation to work for the Gestapo. I feel he is a traitor to the Jewish people. He received favors because of his work. Would any Jew want to be in his place to save his life? I suppose so.

Our book club will be discussing the book this week. Just because a book is not a good book to me. Doesn't mean it won't be a good discussion. I can think of questions right on top of my head. Am I glad I read it, yes? Because it gave a perspective of someone working for the Gestapo. That is a different perspective of the many other books I have read. There are many good Holocaust books out there. I just don't think this is one I would pick up. My suggestion read Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum, or Annalise who just published.

My rating is

Book Review: A Mighty Long Way

A Mighty Long Way
By Carlotta Walls LaNier



The year was 1957 in Little Rock, Arkansas, the beginnings of the Civil Rights movement. The Supreme Justice just ruled in favor of desegregation in our country.  The courageous students had a chance to receive a better education at all white school.  They didn't see a danger. They didn't see this as making a statement. They just wanted a better education.

I can't imagine being as brave as these nine students in 1957. As well as their parents. The President was forced to intervene. The governor wasn't doing anything to stop the violence. President Eisenhower had to send in the National Guard to protect the black students. The mobs were so angry it traumatized one student for years.

The Black students were honor students, and very mature for their age. It was important for them to receive a good education. They were not welcome to get an education at Little Rock Central High School. The State and our country weren't going to let that happen.  For weeks it went on as a stand down. What the school was going to do, and the government.

On a side note, I was impressed by how much education meant to these students. Many students I knew in school were slackers. They were happy to cut classes and miss school. These students didn't. They were miserable just missing one day. The Black community stuck together to help them. The students and their parents were so committed. They found other means of getting their education when they were unable to get to their classes.

The students went through so much torment, name-calling, even still they got through it. Some did graduate from high school. Some didn't. The Black community would never be the same. Some of the students and their families never returned to the town they lived in for generations.

There was one particular incident that affected Carlotta so much. It tore her up for years. Her family home was bombed. They eventually suspected her father, and then someone from the black community as a scapegoat. Eventually, they let her father go. But, the other person was put in prison for some time.

I was born in 1958. I lived outside Detroit in 1967. I remember there was talk in my community of busing students and desegregation. I don't remember what happened out of that because my family moved. The book was an eye-opener. This is part of history I heard glimpses of. I was too young to understand the civil rights movement until now.  I recommend A Mighty Long Way to anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement, or who believes everyone has a right to the best education.

 This is a scary time right now. When everyone's civil liberties are being chiseled away little by little without anyone noticing.

An Anonymous Girl
By Greer Hendricks &
Sarah Pekkanen

Digital copy courtesy from Netgalley


 Comparing it to Gone Girl this was a better read. I didn't love, Gone Girl. I didn't like the book or the characters. This book, I didn't like the characters either. But, I liked the story. I'm calling this domestic thriller.

This is not my usual genre. I can't say, I loved it. But, it did keep me on my toes. Jessica finds out there is a psychiatric study from another client by accident. A quick way to make $500. The study was to be set up for morality, and ethical behavior. Jessica was a great subject according to Dr. Shields.

I thought to myself what could the culprit do to Jessica? Well, there is plenty to submerge herself in Jessica's life. She was very obsessed with her husband unfaithfulness. Dr. Shields became obsessed with her subject during the study. She actually became too involved with her subject. Which is not ethical in a client-doctor relationship.  She lavishes her with expensive gifts. Who was the guilty party, Dr. Shield's or Dr. Shield's husband? 

Dr. Shield's asks Jessica to insert herself into her husband's life. Jessica finds out the previous study subject committed suicide. Things start to become suspicious. The action starts to happen.

The book really starts to pick up speed. Dr. Shields inserts herself into Jessica's family. Paying for a vacation to Florida. Manipulating her guilt about her sister. Using it against Jessica. Lots of twists and turns.

The Senator Next Door: Book Review

T.he Senator Next Door
By Amy Kloberchar



I bought this book after I learned that Amy Kloberchar was running as presidential candidate. The book is about her actually running in the senate. One thing, I have to say she has a great sense of humor. .
I am not from her state. But, I like her ideas that she is a moderate. Be realistic! We are not going to get anything done with extreme ideas on both sides. I think her running as a moderate. She can possible get things done on both sides of the aisle. Many of her peers on both sides of the aisle like her. She also stands out because she is different.

There is some controversy about her being a hard nose employer. I'm not going to be judgemental until the time comes. I also believe I'm going to make my decision later on the during the race. Not now, when there are so many to learn about.

Anyway, the book was a joy to read. She has great ideas. She is running on some of those same ideas in the 2020 race. Like I said I'm not going to make my decision for quite awhile yet.  I have a few more books I have to read about the presidential nominees, including Julian Castro, and Kamala Harris. Good Luck to you, Amy!😼😼😼😼

 

The Great Alone: Book Review

The Great Alone
By Kristin Hannah


I was excited when our book club decided on reading, The Great Alone to discuss. But, also that I could write about it as a review.
I wanted to say great things about the book. But, unfortunately, it was not as good as her previous book, Nightingale. The Great Alone was a bit long and tedious. It was over 400 pages. There are some things I liked, and some great discussion. Just because you didn't like the book doesn't mean it won't make a great discussion, Because it did.

The Great Alone takes place in Washington State then travels to Alaska. It takes place in the 1970's. With a family, the Albrights. It takes place with the great change in our society and political mood.
Pretty much how it is today.

The Albrights, Ernst, and his wife, Cora, and his daughter, Leni. Ernst is a Viet Nam Vet who suffers with PTSD. He has not too much success. He loses another job. Then an offer is given to him, a piece of land in Alaska. He can live off the grid. He takes it.  But things instead of getting better, get worse. On top of everything in Alaska, there are times when it is dark all the time. Other times it is daylight all the time. This causes great stress in their marriage, and family. Where he's wife gives into his every whim. There are fights, and arguments, and beatings of his wife, Cora.

I liked how the author brought in Alaska as a character in the book. Since there are not many books that are written about Alaska.

I also thought the culture in the '70s brought the atmosphere of Alaska as desolate was a good way to parallel the feelings of the era.  The Great Alone brought up many memories for us in the book club of the social issues, and political age of our time.  Think of Nixon, Watergate, social justice, Patty Hearst, school riots, feminism, domestic abuse, Our book club brought up many discussions of the era we lived in during the '70s.

These were things that were not out in the open. Or were discussed until the 80's. But, also the Vietnam Vets coming back from the war with shame. There were so many social issues. Yes, I thought the book was very simplistic like a beach read. But, I still say, there was a lot to talk about.

I didn't think about it till after making a Baked Alaska for our group. I didn't realize what the Bake Alaska represents. That is an oldie but goodie dessert. The only problem was I was afraid to travel about 45 min. It would have melted oh, well. Maybe I can give someone else the idea.
My review three teacups. Thanks, Amy for hosting.

Maid: Book Reviews

Thank you Hatchett Publishing for sending me a review copy of, Maid.
With the forward written by Barbara Ehrenreich, from the book Nickel and Dimed. Which I also read years ago. I could relate most of everything the author described working for a low paying job. I was a maid in high school in a hotel. But, that was a bit different. Because I went home to my parents at home.

Maid is the memoir of Stephanie Land as a high school student. Her dream was to go to college in California. Her hope was to go to college and become a writer. Unfortunately, those dreams were cut down when she got involved with a guy and became pregnant with her daughter.

The memoir does go into the fabric of what it is like to be invisible to the client's homes you cleaned.  She would romanticize what her life would be like if she actually had disposable money she could play with.  What her life would be like, and her client's life is like in the house she cleaned.

At the same time she was going to school she was taking her online classes. She was writing the stories that weren't being told what she saw first hand.

To me, the book related what it was like not so much as a maid. But, what it is like to be a single parent making minimum wage, and making ends meet.  What it is like to ask for government assistance for food, government housing, scholarship. When there is no cushion to help when you are in a financial predicament. The struggles to be poor in this country. When you have to pick between medicine or food.

When people look at you suspicious thinking you are taking advantage. When most of the time that is not the case. Most of the time most of us really need the help. But, unfortunately, it is worse now than before 2016. We are not taking advantage of the government. Unfortunately, people see this and look down at you. Believe me, most of us want to earn a decent wage.
 I think this is where the anger and rage come from. Unfortunately, there are good, and bad in every situation. No one can understand unless you are in their shoes.

I have to bring up this discussion. Poor is not a race issue. It matters where you are in America. Unfortunate things happen in your lifetime. That either you are in a situation you can't get out of. You don't know how to rise up. There are people that just happen to have great support that can help in your situation. There are others that have no idea how to get out of the situation. You just have to keep on truckin'. Stephanie Land was lucky she was able to rise up and get out of her situation. There are people that are not so lucky. Yes, it does have to do with race. But, also has to do with your character.

I recommend reading, Maid if you never experienced being poor. Have never been in an environment where people are poor. Or if you have never spoken to anyone that has been poor. Poor is romanticized in movies, and books. Believe me it is not fun when your tummy is empty and you are hungry. Or you have to decide between medicine or food.
.

Great Read: Underground Railroad

The Underground Railroad
By Colson Whitehead

My copy



Disclaimer: First off I must tell you that the Underground Railroad is not real. It is a symbolism. I was amazed to learn that people I spoke to in the book club actually thought there was a real underground railroad. That is pretty sad that people don't know their history. I couldn't believe it when I heard it. The other, is the author should of put a disclaimer. Since this is historical fiction. The Underground Railroad is in his imagination. Luckily, I watched a video explaining this. Some people didn't realize this either. My only critique, should be a disclaimer. I don't know anything about the author. But realized with his other books. He doesn't write a straight narrative. Instead, he takes liberties making things up.

Since many of us need a refresher on what the Underground Railroad is. I decided to write a synopsis of what it is. The Underground Railroad, a vast network of people who helped fugitive slaves escape to the North and to Canada, was not run by any single organization or person. Rather, it consisted of many individuals -- many whites but predominantly black -- who knew only of the local efforts to aid fugitives and not of the overall operation. Still, it effectively moved hundreds of slaves northward each year.

"The Underground Railroad," after the then emerging steam railroads. The system even used terms used in railroading: the homes and businesses where fugitives would rest and eat were called "stations" and "depots" and were run by "stationmasters," those who contributed money or goods were "stockholders," and the "conductor" was responsible for moving fugitives from one station to the next. 

For the slave, running away to the North was anything but easy. The first step was to escape from the slaveholder. For many slaves, this meant relying on his or her own resources. Sometimes a "conductor," posing as a slave, would enter a plantation and then guide the runaways northward. The fugitives would move at night. They would generally travel between 10 and 20 miles to the next station, where they would rest and eat, hiding in barns and other out-of-the-way places. While they waited, a message would be sent to the next station to alert its stationmaster. 

The fugitives would also travel by train and boat -- conveyances that sometimes had to be paid for. Money was also needed to improve the appearance of the runaways -- a black man, woman, or child in tattered clothes would invariably attract suspicious eyes. This money was donated by individuals and also raised by various groups, including vigilance committees. 

The Underground Railroad had many notable participants, including John Fairfield in Ohio, the son of a slave holding family, who made many daring rescues, Levi Coffin, a Quaker who assisted more than 3,000 slaves, and Harriet Tubman, who made 19 trips into the South and escorted over 300 slaves to freedom.
 The first sentence grabs you.

The first sentence grabs you right from the start:

The first time Ceasar approached Cora about running north, she said no. 

 Cora who was the first generation of African slaves to be born on a plantation.  Her grandmother Ajarry was African, and her mother Mabel ran away and left her daughter Cora behind.   The conditions and treatment by the plantation owners, the Randall's were awful. She was practically worked to death, starved, raped, forced to watch her fellow slaves, mistreated, whipped, and tortured.

Cora, and Ceasar runaway from the plantation. They discover the literal" Underground Railroad. They have a conductor, and many tunnels, stretching many miles. These railroads connect to conductors homes.

They board the train bound to South Carolina. When they get off the train they are surprised to see whites intermingling with Afro-Americans. The towns are filled with not, just whites but mixes of both. The South Carolinian have a liberal view of race. They travel to North Carolina where they are very opposite of what Cora and Caesar went through in South Carolina. It is very dangerous walking around. She takes refuge and hides in an attic. Until they discover her.  Each state that they travel through has something new to offer when it comes to slavery. When they get to Indiana they come to a type of "Utopia". With a commune-type existence.  Where they all work together black and white. Until something happens that changes the Utopian existence.


 MY Review, At first  there were many times I had to turn away from reading the book. But, I kept reading. It was a hard book to read. This book is the first novel I have read from Colsum Whitehead. It most likely won't be the last.

 This is the first time I am reading a book about slavery by a Afro-American. I will never look at slavery the same way again.   I Empathized about social justices but never dug down deep. Its terrible that our country let this go,  on, and on.

To never change the attitudes. Even with the Civil Rights movement. It didn't change much. I didn't really delve into the Declaration of Independence. I didn't realize what it said. Our country is hypocritical about equality. That is all I am going to say. Because I don't want to make this political.

The author did a great job writing about slavery. To give historical bent with magical realism. Was very unique. I think the author understood just making the story on the plantation would make it mundane and ordinary. Making it into a road trip made the story intriguing,  worth while. This made the story feel real, and come alive.

The two questions made me think: If all you knew was living on the plantation how would you feel about running away? It must have been scary. If all you knew was plantation life being a slave. Why did he make Cora a woman rather than a man? Think about it. It was worse being born a female. She was a commodity. For the slave owner it would bring more children to work his plantation. Also he could have his way with her. Without paying for it.

It wasn't an enjoyable read. But, it made you think about this country. It makes you think of the many social injustices done in our country. And still being done even now. The book was written at a very timely time in 2016.  Underground Railroad has won many literary awards including, The Pulitzer Prize. The book was picked for the Oprah Book Club.

Mr. Colsom Whitehead has written many books. Most of his books are out of the ordinary. He has another book about to be published called, The Nickel Boys. It is about an institution in Florida that mistreated Afro-American children, which is true.

One Scary Book: No Exit

No Exit
By Taylor Adams


I don't usually read thrillers, and suspense novels. But, I asked the publisher if she would send me a copy. I am so glad she did. I read the book, No Exit during the bad storm two weeks ago.

I live in SC, which we don't usually get snow. I'm a transplant from Boston, Michigan, and New Jersey. I remember those cold snowy days. Recalling even if you have the heat on. The cold would still get into the house, and go right through you.Recalling the snowy days shoveling the snow. I'm connecting my experience of the cold weather with the book.

The author did a great job describing the feel of the snow, and the appearance of what snow looks like, the coldness of the temperature, and how you feel when cold, and snow hit you as a human being.Like I was really in the bitter snow.  While reading the book. I realized how much I miss snow. But then reading a few sentences. Not, its OK, I'll read about it instead, Lol! That's enough for a couple years.  I would like to see  whiteness outside. Beyond that I'm done with cold and snow for now.  We didn't get any snow this year. But, that's ok, the book gave me my fill. If you live in the south, and never experienced cold, and snow. I recommend reading the book just for the
experience.

The book was awesome. It was a heart thumping, heart racing thriller, and suspense. I'm glad the publisher sent me a copy. Thank you, Danielle Bartlett, from William Morrow Publishing for a copy.

Darby is a college student driving to her mother who is very sick in the hospital. She pulls off the road to a truck stop because it is too dangerous to drive any further. She gets inside the truck stop with four strangers are inside, all stranded. She can't get any cell service. She goes outside to locate a better area to call. She finds she only has 3% charge. While walking outside she stumbles on one of the vehicles has a little girl inside in a animal cage.

Which one of the strangers owns the Van? Why would they have a little girl bound in a cage? This book keeps you guessing. When you think you know what is going to happen. It twists the other way. I can't tell you much more. Or I will ruin it.

 Needless to say, just go read the book. Its worth the time, and the thrill of the ride.

The only thing, like everything he writes is descriptive. It is a bit gory in parts. That is probably the only thing I didn't like reading. I give it 5 cups of tea. It keeps you up all night wondering what is going to happen next.

Book Review: The Only Woman in the Room

The Only Woman in the Room
By Marie Benedict




I was excited last year learning that Marie Benedict was writing a new novel about, Hedy Lemar. I just watched a PBS documentary about her. I was anticipating her novel coming out. I had read her other book, Carnegie's Maid. Which I recommend highly. I was sent a galley by Sourcebooks which I dived in quite awhile ago.

Hedy was 19 years old and performing on the stage in Vienna. There was a scandalous movie called, Estasy she did as well. These were dangerous times. She was a Jew. But, didn't know what that meant. He family never taught her the ways of the Jewish religion, and traditions.

A gentleman was interested in meeting her. She had no idea what he did for a living. If he had connections with the Third Reich. He was a munitions manufacturer. He had business ties in Italy. He's name is Fredrik Mandl. She fell in love with him. Her father was afraid for his daughter if she did anything against him. Her father thought the best way to deal with him. Was to marry him that would keep her safe. She didn't need any prodding. She was already smitten with him. But soon, she learned he was a very controlling person. He decided what she would wear, her lipstick, her hair, etc. When he learned later about her controversial movie. He hit the roof.
This was the turning point for Hedy.

He had lavish parties with many German, and Third Reich dignitaries. She entertained them on a consistent basis. But, no one had predicted that Hedy was listening to their conversations. Not realizing that she had a brain. She kept these conversations in her head for later.She was planning an escape from her husband and later use the information Hence the title, The Only Woman in the Room. Woman in that time were thought of as statues. Do what I say, and keep your mouth shut.

She used these conversations later on in life when she arrived in the United States. I'm not going to spoil the rest for you. So in case you decide to read it.

My impression: I knew what type of genre this is, Woman's Fiction. It is light reading. I understand what the author was writing about. But, I still would have liked if the author went deeper into her secrets, and how she developed as a scientist. It seems like she skipped and jumped from being in Europe to the United States. How did she manage to become a scientific mind? Did she always have a scientific mind as a small child? Or develop later.

 It just seemed that the author just skipped something, and jumped right in when she was a Hollywood star to become a scientist. She invented"Frequency Hopping".She developed a patent.

 I felt toward the end she was tying the pieces together to soon. She didn't really explain much. I understand this is Women's fiction. That she couldn't delve too deep or she would loose people. But, she still could have generalized without it being tedious. The end of the book was being preachy about women's place back in the 30's and 40's compared to 2019. Thank g-d things have changed for women.

Hedy Lamarr is responsible for the invention of cell phones, and wi-fi. We can thank her. Unfortunately, she wasn't taken seriously because she was a woman. Thank goodness things have changed where women are taken seriously. And enjoy working in different occupations mixed with men in business, etc.

I went to the book club at Barnes and Noble this past month. It was coincidental that Barnes and Noble was discussing the book. I am glad I went to meet other women who read the book. Most of the ladies felt the way I felt. It didn't go deep enough. But, you did get the idea about her life. The book at the end tied the ends up too fast. The title everyone had different ideas. But, mainly she wasn't noticed so no one thought twice talking about their plans and regime.  You can check out the PBS documentary  trailer here

Book Review: Overload

Over Load
By Bob Schieffer



Do you feel bombarded by news cycle, and cable news, media, and podcasts each day. Bob Schieffer, and his fellow workers put into perspective. In this small little book( about 200 pages).

He breaks it down into concise blurbs. Some of the topics is common knowledge. Others are his own opinions of the business of journalism, and technology put together. Most of it I already was aware of. The book wasn't an easy read. It was based on analysis, and opinions. Which was talked over, and over on the news after the election.

Most of the book is how journalism has changed due to the internet, and social media. Most of the book is about how journalism has changed due to the internet, and social media. Taken by storm is the fake news.

 How do you decipher all the news. How do you know what is true, and not true. what is true. Social media has caused polarization in our country. But, also across the globe. 

This is the most important about local newspapers. People are not paying attention to local and state government. Rather they are more focused in Washington. How many of us know who are local representatives in my state of SC. We know who Lindsey Graham is. But do we know are local representatives are.

 Unfortunately the newspapers are cutting their budget. Locals newspapers, are forced to cut down on staff. The local governments don't sell newspapers.  Donald Trump sells paper, not local news.  Unfortunately, it has caused local corruption in our states, and local town governments. There is no longer accountability, and watchdogs asking the questions.   If there are no presence of local reporters. There aren't reporters to question their local governments, and policies. 

What I found interesting. How young people get their news vs. The older generation. Instead of cable news or ABC, NBC, CBS. The young people get news through VOX, Buzzfeed, Mic. These news sources I never heard of.

 Also, how the digital age has affected politics, and news reporting. The old vs. The new age. 

What I enjoyed reading about is podcasts. I love listening on my way to work. There is so many of them. Reading about the history about podcasting brought back the times we listened to the ipod. Then he touched on the digital age with CBSN. CBSN is cable news through only the internet.

What is important here. We are getting bombarded with so much information. How many different ways we can get information. No wonder we are polarized in our politics.

What is important to note. Is that it is human nature to want to reaffirm our thinking about politics, and government. So when we hear the news we go to our favorite news host to reaffirm the same thing we are thinking. So Fox News, MSNBC, and CNN does it for us. There is isn't anyone who gives up objective news like Walter Cronkite. 

 We also get a taste of Stephen Colbert. Why he's type of programming is important. Some people don't get news from newspapers. They rather listen to comedians. Not realizing they are listening to politics. Another way is through social media. We glance through our status. If some newspaper links gets our attention. We read it. Whether we know it to be true or not.

 On the other side. We have propaganda machines. Or we have people purposely posting  absurd stories for financial gain. So many hits the more money you make.

 In the end. How ever you get your news from newspapers, journalists, newscasters, have integrity, AND ARE NOT THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE! If it wasn't for them their would be no questions asked and not accountability. 

Great Book: Killers of Flower Moon

Killers of the Flower Moon
By David Grann

Courtesy copy from Doubleday Publishing



 Killers of the Flower Moon is an unbelievable true account of the Osage tribe. The book is divided in three parts. The background info. leading up to the murders, Osage tribe re-location, the oil leases, and guardianship of the Osage. The second part deals with the formation and beginnings of Hoover's administration of the bureau. The modernization of the bureau. The history, and background. Then the investigation. The third part is the realization that the FBI covered up more murders that was previously thought. The Osage community how it affected them. The after affects how they lived after learning about their families.
                                                                     

This is a disgraceful period of history that needs to be taught in school. It was a systemic killing of a native society. Because of greed, wealth, and racism in our country. Originally the count they were told was 24. It is later learned that many others were murdered also. It is implied but never said. But, you can reach your own conclusions. Killers of the Flower Moon is an unbelievable true account of the Osage tribe. The book is divided in three parts. The background info. leading up to the murders. Osage tribe re-location, the oil leases, and guardianship of the Osage. The second part deals with the formation and beginnings of Hoover's administration of the bureau. The modernization of the bureau. The history, and background. Then the investigation. The third part is the realization that the FBI covered up more murders that was previously thought. The Osage community how it affected them. The after affects how they lived after learning about their families. 

                                                                 

         


 There was a larger cover up by Hoover, and the FBI.

 I liked that the author tied all the history together. Not just the FBI's investigation. But, the families investigation. Leading all the way up to present time.

 I wish the author had discussed about the FBI's cover-up. What he found out. Instead it was only about the Osage investigation. Perhaps he couldn't get into the files of the FBI after the conclusion of the case. Perhaps that would open a new can of worms.

The only critique of the book. Is there are slow parts that became tedious. And, still it was an enjoyable read. Our book has chosen to discuss this book in November. Which I can't wait to discuss. This is a part of history. I don't think many of us knew. It should be taught in schools. 

 Also, I  Can't wait for the release of the movie. Thank you Doubleday Publishing for a review copy.