February 2016

Out of Sorts

By Aurelie Valognes

Translation by Wendeline

One of the reasons that I love Kindle First Reads, is the opportunity to read different genres and new authors.  Out of Sorts was one of those books.  Aurelie Valognes tells a sweet and simple story of a grumpy old man, Ferdinand Brun.  Ferdinand’s feelings and experiences are shared in a way that is universal.  His relationships with his dog, his neighbors and his estrangement from his daughter could be those of many older people.  Their stories are both humorous and sad.  Mostly, they are real.  The translation by Wendeline A. Hardenberg seemed flawless.  I enjoyed the book and would definitely recommend it as a good read.

The Supreme Macaroni Company

By Adriana Trigiani

The Supreme Macaroni Company is the third and final book in the Valentine Trilogy.  I’ve followed the life and loves of Valentine and her Italian family.  Once again, the setting moves between New York City and Tuscany in Italy.   Valentine’s unique way of dealing with her large extended family and the family business is always entertaining.  As in real life, there are times that are hilariously funny and times that are sad.  Trigiani writes in a voice that brings Italian American culture to life.  I listened to the Audible version of this book and found it engaging and entertaining.  Definitely a good listen!

The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy

By Rachel Joyce

I didn’t realize that The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy  was a sequel when I picked it up from a February library display.  It looked like a good romance, so I picked it up.  A romance, it was not.  However, it was a love story… a story of unrequited love.  A sequel to The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, this book is the story of Queenie’s relationship with Harold Fry from her point of view.  It is also about Queenie’s relationship with herself.  Her personal journey was long, sad at times and different from Harold’s.  However, it was not a sad book.  There were many humorous moments.  Since I was reading the sequel first, I didn’t realize the parallels between Rachel Joyce’s two books.  I don’t think the order really matters.  The two books are related, but definitely stand on their own.  Joyce writes with simplicity and realism that is compelling.  The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy is definitely a good read.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

By Rachel Joyce

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is the first of two books written by Rachel Joyce.  The absolute ordinariness of Harold Fry and of his journey made a brilliant book.  Even though Harold’s journey was to visit his former colleague, Queenie, in a hospice, the story is more about his relationship with his family and the people he met along the way.  The British setting and characters are woven into a universal story of personal growth.  Although related, both books in the Harold Fry series stand up well on their own.  The two personal journeys, while related, are very different… as often happens in life.  The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry definitely qualifies as a good read.

North of Here

By Laurel Saville
North of Here by Laurel Saville was another Kindle First Reads.   A family tragedy left an unprepared daughter, Miranda, to wrap up the mess.  Most of the story elements seemed like clichés, including the damaged rich girl, a helpful handyman and a hippie cult.  Not the best Kindle First and definitely not a great read.