5 comments about Atonement: A Novel.

1. Websters Dictionary defines atonement as reconciliation, reparation for an offense or injury:satisfaction.
   Briony Tallis is a brilliant, fanciful and immature girl of just 13 or so as this book begins. Briony Tallis is a brilliant, celebrated, accomplished writer of 77 as this story ends.
   
   As a reader, I did not understand the title before the last chapter titled "London, 1999".
   
   From the beginning I found this book bumping along with a sluggish story line. Filled with Briony's personality, this story was rather mishapen. I wasn't sure I liked the book. I set it down many times from lack of interest and boredom. Not familiar with the story, I vaguely remembered it had been a movie-never saw it, and thought, never WILL see it.
   
   I hate to not finish a book, so I kept on with reading a few pages each night before bed. (hint, hint)
   Somewhere, about three quarters of the way through, the book offered redemption. No pun intended.
   The interesting thing is, I couldn't care about the characters. Not until Briony is eighteen and training as a nurse in WWII England does the story start to reveal the treasure.
   I can't reveal the ending of this book. It is for each reader to find on his or her own. It may be different for each person, but I found this novel to have been a surprise. I didn't like this story half way through, I have ended the book with a new opinion.
   Briony Tallis must atone for her life altering mistake.I like that this author did not make it so simple. Satisfaction complete.



2. Overall, I liked the book but do consider it over-hyped. I enjoyed the first part and didn't have a problem with the same "scenes" described from different people's perspective that some people seemed to have. Actually, I thought that worked very well. I thought the characters were very well drawn out and you could understand (may not agree but understand) their motivations.
   
   If you're expecting a twist or deep secret, don't. There isn't one. Most people will figure out what is going on and who did what right from the start.
   
   For me, the book falls apart in the second section. It is still well written and very descriptive, perhaps overly so as some have pointed out. But I did think I got a feel for London at the beginning of WWII.
   
   Spoiler Alert.
   
   I don't necessarily like happy endings but the ending is unsatisfying. The man who actually molested a child ends up marrying her and evidently lives happily ever after. You don't really get much sense of where Briony has been other than that she is losing her memory. BTW, I thought this was a nice touch. Evidently she is being tortured by what she did and, short of death, this might provide her some relief. And the hero and heroine die during the war. The book ends where it started with Briony's play. Didn't see the point of that. Interestingly, the movie took this scene out completely and replaced it with Cee and Robbie frolicking on the beach near the cottage she had arranged fro them to go to after Robbie returned. I guess the movie producers thought that the ending was too much of a downer and put in that fantasy scene.



3. For starters: I've never read any McEwan before, and generally do not care for modern writers, but I was absolutely floored by his prose. The writing is amazing.
   
   His portrayal of naive, pre-teen Briony is dead-on and eerie, and, even though she is far less developed, I could identify some with Cecelia's feelings of being a bit lost and out-of-place at home after the relative independence of college.
   
   I've read a lot of reviews that are impatient with the slow pace, especially of the first part of the novel. While I agree that it is a novel that immerses the reader fully in descriptions, I think such criticism is a little unfair. It is not a novel that should be read in anticipation of getting to a juicy ending; it's a novel that should be read with the mindset that getting there is half (most of) the enjoyment.
   
   While I didn't especially *like*, or closely identify with, any of the characters, I thought they were reasonable (I don't like most real, live, people that much, either). I didn't think Briony was horrible so much as she was ignorant, confused, and self-centered, as are most 13-year-olds; I include myself in that, as embarrassing as it is to remember it. I thought she was an excellent characterization of an adolescent at an awkward place in life, with an incomplete view and as-yet poor understanding of the world.
   
   The ending was complicated. No, I don't think anything she did later could actually atone for the mess Briony made. On the other hand, she was 13 and acting out of ignorance more than viciousness. And, frankly, I thought the title referred more at her attempt to atone to herself, to lay her conscience to rest, than to actually achieving any sort of atonement in the eyes of the rest of the world. I think it should not be taken too literally.



4. Ian McEwan is a sensual writer. He sculpted the narrative with beautiful imagery on an English estate. I found it to be purposeful, from cover to cover. There is a reason why the novel is written in 4 parts. Once you get to the last few pages, the structure of the novel makes sense! It stands out as a significant work of art compared to contemporary literature which is mostly superficial. There are thought provoking themes that lie beneath the story lines: shame, guilt, cognitive development, truth, perception, social class, forbidden love, and more. I will savor this novel for years to come.



5. Atonement is an extremely beautiful story about how differing perceptions of a single event can affect the lives of those involved, whether negatively or positively.
   
   This book is told in three parts and each part is from three different perspectives.
   
   The story begins in 1935 and is told from the viewpoint of the 13 year old Briony. Briony witnesses an event involving her older sister, Cecile, and the gardener, Robbie, that her young brain does not understand. Briony decides that Cecile would never commit such an indecent act of her own accord; therefore, Robbie must have forced Cecile into the situation.
   
   Briony later witnesses an assault on her cousin and names the lewd Robbie as the perpetrator. Briony is unwaveringly believed in her account of the tale and Robbie is imprisoned.
   
   Part two of the book is told from the viewpoint of Robbie. He was able to bargain an early release from prison by joining the military and being shipped off to France to fight. Robbie wants nothing more than to return to England and his beloved Cecile. His account of his struggle through the French countryside in an attempt at retreat is mesmerizing. His love for Cecile and absolute hatred for the person who tore him away from her and single handedly imprisoned him instills the same passion in the reader.
   
   The third part of the book is told, again, from Briony's perspective. Years have passed and she is now a nurse for the wounded soldiers. She feels an immense sense of guilt for her childish take on the event so many years ago. She wants nothing more than to reconcile with Cecile and Robbie. Briony is finally able to confront the ghosts of her past and make her appeal to the parties involved. The outcome of this occurrence lies within the pages of the book itself. I will say, however, that the ending...affected me.
   
   I found this book to be elegantly written. The language was absolutely exquisite and I identified with Briony. I could hardly put the book down...I had to force myself to stop reading each night when the hands of the clock approached 1 a.m. I was entranced with every page, every word. The tale of Briony, Cecile, and Robbie will be carried with me for the rest of my days and is now considered to be one of my most beloved experiences.

5 comments about A Christmas Visitor (Cape Light, Book 8).

1. I have read all of the Cape Light Series, but cannot read this one because it is not in Large Print which I require. I love his books and hope that this comes out in Large Print soon.



2. I love these Cape Light Novels, but the presence of this angel in the form of a figurine bothered me a bit in this one. The fact that the story seemed to claim that it had a "healing" presence to it is what bothered me. I believe in miracles and I believe in angels, but it being in this form almost smacked of idolatry of an object to me. The rest of the story I enjoyed. That's why I would have to give it only a one star.



3. 
   I loved the book and highly recommend it to people who want to live a true Christmas atmosphere, away from the dirty and ugly world....
   It is so refreshing to be able to read a book which can be interesting, alive and real without all the cussing and ugliness that our world mostly offers today.
   Very good and looking forward to the next one.



4. This was a great book Kept my interest. Couldn't put it down. Took me a day to read it.



5. Kinkade's heart-warming art truly reflects the essence of this story or rather stories, since there are several interwoven in the novel. Some might find the book a tad on the saccarine side, but no one wants to read depressing books over Christmas, and there is much that is uplifting in this one. For another inspirational seasonal series, try In the Dead of Winter: Ivy Towers Mystery Series #1 (Heartsong Presents Mysteries #3). For a Christmas murder mystery set in England, which also reflects the holiday spirit, check out Christmas is Murder: A Rex Graves Mystery (Rex Graves Mysteries).

4 comments about Dishing Up Vermont: 145 Authentic Recipes from the Green Mountain State.

1. "Dishing Up Vermont" is a welcome addition to anyone's kitchen and cookbook library. For the master chef, novice, and everyone in between who may be interested in great whole food recipes prepared and flavored with organic ingredients, "Dishing Up Vermont" is a long awaited culinary dream. The wide selection of products used in these recipes not only include natural, healthy, and heart smart ingredients and preparation methods, but also emphasize sustainable farming practices, conservation, and fair trade markets which strengthen communities and the health of the overall land and environment. "Dishing Up Vermont" takes the reader through an exciting and delicious journey through the state of Vermont to eat at some of the finest restaurants, inns, and lodges while meeting some of the most exceptional chefs in the world...all in the comfort of your own kitchen. "Dishing Up Vermont" is an excellent cookbook that is unique in its mission and one that my family and friends will enjoy and recommend to others for many years to come. Kudos to its author!



2. Dishing Up Vermont is a wonderful new cookbook that combines the best recipes and ingredients from the Green Mountain State. It introduces the reader to a wealth of ingredients and products that give the cook an insider's view of Vermont's best. This cookbook demonstrates the important bond between farmers, chefs and consumers, while stressing the importance of the sustainable farming movement as well as buying local. The book contains beautiful photographs of Vermont and its products which add an extra touch to this delightful collection of recipes. This is a must have cookbook for anyone's library, whether you be a Vermonter, or a visitor to the state. Hats off to the author for giving us a cookbook which we will have in our library for many years to come.



3. You don't have to live in Vermont to love this cookbook. We live in Pennsylvania, and can get many of the same ingredients from our local farmer's market. This cookbook is for anyone who enjoys good food and knows the value of sustainable farming. Knowing the importance of buying locally produced foods, I found this cookbook to be a practical addition to my pantry. The recipes are easy to follow, yet taste like they were prepared by a gourmet chef. I particularly enjoyed the recipes for Blueberry Stuffed French Toast and Apple Covered Cheesecake. If you've ever been to Vermont, reading this will make you want to go back. The author does a wonderful job highlighting many of the Inns and Farms that make Vermont unique.



4. Dishing Up Vermont: 145 Authentic Recipes from the Green Mountain State is a compilation that unquestionably lives up to its title. Food writer and Tracey Medeiros, whose recipes have formerly appeared in "Bon Appetit", "Cooking Light", "Eating Well", and "Hampton Roads", offers easy-to-follow instructions for preparing tasty delights such as "Vermont-Style Hush Puppies", "Grilled Marinated Venison Loin", "Grilled Maple-marinated Portobello Mushrooms", "Butternut Squash Ravioli with Apples and Pears", and much more. Full-color photography and an assortment of Vermont food and eatery anecdotes round out this wonderful culinary tour de force.

5 comments about Native Plants of the Northeast: A Guide for Gardening and Conservation.

1. This book proved to be a big help in determining native plantings for my yard. The latin names helped eliminate "look alikes" in plant catalogs. It is worth the money



2. For anyone in the Northeastern part of the USA, this book will become a well thumbed reference. The developing of a web of life based upon the system of native flora and fauna is clearly and compellingly presented. In a world where native plants are often thought of as weeds, this book is a fresh look at what makes the Northeast its own special region.



3. I know how to garden in Kansas, Maryland, Australia, South Texas and Florida, but now I'm learning what plants work for New England. This book is a life saver with descriptions of ferns, grasses, wildflowers, vines, shrubs and trees suited to the region.
   The photos are good, full-color, but aren't always on the same page as the description. Each plant is listed with its scientific name, followed by its common names and family group. It gives the zones, soil requirements, and light needs plus a short description. There are propagation tips for each and notes for special information and an indication of the plant's natural range. It is really a pretty exhaustive book.
   Some helpful lists at the end includes:
   Plants that tolerate wet soil
   Plants that tolerate dry soil
   Plants that tolerate shade
   Plants with flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds
   Plants with fruits that attract birds
   Plants with fruits that attract mammals
   This can be used as a wildflower identification book or to select plants for special needs in your northeast garden.



4. The book is a good list of plants, shrubs and trees for the area. I find the text to be a little technical for the novice/intermediate gardener.



5. Very informative and chocked full of valuable material pertaining to specific types of plants you may desire for your garden. I have only one complaint - the pictures of shrubs and trees show only, in most instances, just the branch containing the leave or flower. I wanted to see pictures of the entire shrub or tree since I desired to observe the fullness or lack thereof of specific species for my garden. In other words, to get an idea how the plant would look when it is in place.

5 comments about The Perfect Storm: A True Story of Men Against the Sea (P.S.).

1. This book is very vivid in its descriptions of the storm and the activities leading up to it. The author has done an excellent job of making the reader feel that he/she is involved in the action. Very exciting and emotional read.



2. The book ably reconstructs the terrifying facts, feelings and tragedy of the fishing boat Andrea Gail and her six-man crew, which disappeared during a killing storm of mythic proportions. Tragically, the bodies were never found, so nobody survived to tell the story. The book weaves a compelling patchwork around the sinking itself--the ship's colourful crew, their manic drives, lives and backgrounds. There are fascinating details of meterology, navigation and commercial fishing. We peer into the physics of rogue waves, the horrifying physiology of drowning, the agonies of search and rescue. We feel the adrenal charge of risk-fishing, the frailty of humans pitted against Nature, the lash of wind, the brine, the towering waves, the violent pitch and toss of the sea, told with the crackling force and energy of a first novel. The writing is tight, plain, elegant and restrained. Junger is ever the journalist, always tethered to his materials, never sensational, never indulging himself, or setting free the novelist. Perhaps his stern, disciplined self-control is his greatest triumph. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would gladly read it again.



3. Junger recounts the relentless ferocity of the Storm of the Century that hit North America's eastern seaboard during 1991. This is a breath-taking, riveting tale of human courage in the face of the most devastating forces of nature.



4. `The Perfect Storm` started out as an article in `Outside` magazine, where Junger was an occasional free-lance contributor, although his day job was a lumber jack and waiting tables. When he wasn't slinging an axe or chops, he expanded the original article into a book, his first, published in 1997 when he was about 34 years old. It did well on the New York Times list and quickly went on to a big-budget star-powered movie. The natives of Gloucester, the New England fishing town at the center of the story, gave it a positive reception, which for Junger was its highest praise. In fact it made some of them famous, Linda Greenlaw went on to write her own book The Hungry Ocean: A Swordboat Captain's Journey.
   
   Stylistically the success of the book is remarkable because the final moments of Andrea Gail, the climax of the book, are a mystery. Jungler says it was "journalism by analogy". But the effect works well by lending the account authenticity while engaging the readers imagination to fill in the blanks, making it all the more terrifying. In addition it lends a great deal of sympathy and compassion to the friends and relatives of the dead, who also live with the unknown and terrors of the minds eye. Most non-fiction authors would have no problem interjecting some fictional dialog or scenes to make the book more readable, but it would have been a lie, the truth is unknown and it showed a great deal of integrity on Jungers part to take the high but more risky and difficult road.
   
   Of course the book is about the storm, and not just the Andrea Gail. Probably the most riveting part of the book concerns the Air National Guard helicopter that forced landed in 100 foot seas. The details of this are well documented and Junger is thus able to sustain a strong narrative without falling back on tangents, or "analogy," as he does in the Andrea Gai story - which happens to make up four-fifths of the book. Thus some of the most popular complaints by readers is that it doesn't flow well and has awkward anecdotal tangents breaking up the storyline. However for anyone with a natural curiosity with how things work (fishing, boats, rescue), this type of braided narrative - common in creative non-fiction these days - is perfectly normal.
   
   Overall I'm impressed with the books integrity and compassion. The writing is workman-like, dense like a magazine article but not stylistically original, except for the effective use of journalistic analogy to tell a story.



5. Does everyone know this book is a hoax? Am I the only member of the reading public who didn't know this?
   
   It's a terrible book, written by someone who hates reading for people who hate reading in a patronizing and revolting attempt to interest people who hate reading in reading. Yuk. The author has a lot in common with the author of The Lovely Bones: both terrible writers and cynical pompous uneducated jerks who revere nothing but their own ability to get one over on someone.

4 comments about Weird Massachusetts: Your Travel Guide to Massachusetts' Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets (Weird).

1. I really liked this book, although it was a bit of disappointment to learn that there isn't really anything that spooky about Spider Gates! ha ha I learned a lot of things about my own home state that I didn't even know, this was a great book. Each story is pretty short, so you can always investigate the stories that really interest you further on your own.



2. I was so sad when I got this book. I love the "Weird" series and live in MA, so I could hardly wait to learn some juicy tidbits of weirdness. Unfortunately, that did not happen. I think I would've liked this better if I didn't already own "Weird New England" of which some of the info is taken from. Honestly, there really isn't anything new here. I mean, Salem? Lizzie Borden? Plymouth Rock? Between that and seeing the exact same info (sometimes the exact same pages) from "Weird New England" I was just really disappointed. Too much info that you can find elsewhere. It's still a good series of books though.



3. I'm from New Jersey but go to school in Mass., so when this book came out I snatched it right up--and I'm very glad I did. It is not only a great addition to the series as a whole, but also a must have companion to the Weird New England book published a few years back. Sure, the obvious stuff is covered here--Salem, Lizzy Borden and so forth--but you really couldn't do a book called Weird Massachusetts and NOT include those stories. It just wouldn't be complete. Even so,the author does a great job of retelling the few obligatory stories that are included here, and somehow manages breathe new life into them through his energetic writing style. But the real tastey meat of this book lies in the material not covered in any previous volumes: like the terrifying stories of Dudley Road, the little know odd finds buried deep in the woods like Deed Rock, and the just plain quirky entries like the story of Sheila Shea's grave (it actually reads "who the hell is Sheila Shea?" In addition to that, there are some chilling tales from some of MA's abandoned place. Sure, most people know of Danvers, but what about Worcester State, Northampton State, and Medfield State hospitals? All are explored here in their creepy and forlorn glory! If you are into Weird and want to know more about its presence in the Bay State, this book has it covered. What more can I say?



4. Weird Massachusetts is a fun, silly, enjoyable book enjoyable to read for anyone who enjoys good ghost stories, local legends and other weird events. Of course they are not true but like most people we all love to be scared and left with the question of "what if?" This book is highly recommended for people who enjoy a good fright and love to read stories about ghosts and goblins and want to share those with others around them.
   
   Read this for some good, scary, fun!

5 comments about Maine Atlas & Gazetteer.

1. The detailed maps are great but guys...no use looking for a road map of Maine, I mean the whole state as it doesn't exist: incredible! so do order a map in addition!!



2. If you like maps and spend any time in Maine hiking, paddling, or traveling backroads, you must have this. It is fun to study and indispensable for exploring Maine.



3. This is the bible of maps of Maine. And most, if not all, other states have a version available. The first time you use it will probably make the purchase worthwhile.



4. After reading reviews on Amazon, I bought this book with a couple of others for my sister-in-law who moved to Maine. Within a week of moving to Maine, they got lost and used this atlas to find their way! They really like it.



5. I've been camping in Maine for a few weeks... Mainers expect you to have one of these. They say "get out your DeLorme's" not "do you have a map?" Some people I've met have pointed me to the right page without looking at the back.
   
   The details in this atlas are great! All of Maine's public reserve land and campground are clearly marked. If you are trying to do some real camping in some remote areas, get this map. This is a must if you are going to be doing anything outdoors in ME. I never thought I'd say a map is fun to read.

No comments about Zagat Boston Restaurants 2008/09: Including Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket (Zagatsurvey).

5 comments about Just Wicked Enough.

1. Usually I enjoy Lorraine Heath's novels but this one I simply did not like. The concept was interesting, a titled noble putting himself on the marriage auction block literally and the opening chapter was very witty as hero Michael, Marquess of Flaconridge ticks off each father's assets and liabilities in his head as he waits to see who has the highest bid for his title.. In fact I really liked the first chapter and the last three or four. It was everything in between which I disliked.
   
   Part of my problem with this book was that the heroine Kate was so incredibly self centered. She was the darling, rich daughter of really rich American parents hunting for a titled son-in-law. She was most insistent that Michael had to make her happy. She seems to forget that this was the man she chose to marry, yes, she did have a choice, it wasn't the middle ages, she could have told her parents that she would not bow to their wishes or at least sought out another nobleman. To make sure that he appeased her, she held the purse strings, and held them tightly. It was awful the way Michael had to almost beg her for money, and it wasn't for gambling or wenching but rather for a noble purpose albeit to her credit Kate did give him the money. She also tosses a few crumbs here and there to let him know he can voice an opinion but she is in charge period.
   
   Michael swallows his pride again and again. Part of this is his own fault for not being open with the heroine but she isn't exactly sharing many secrets either. She protects her feelings by thwarting Michael. She will not sleep with him as he must love her first but she is not required to love him back. She realizes her incredible selfishness very late in the novel. She also has a past which rears its ugly head in the form of a former love.
   
   As stated earlier, the ending is quite good and saves this from being a one star novel. Finally, finally, Kate wises up to her own selfish nature and how she put this man through the ringer but for me Kate's epiphany came way too late.



2. I thoroughly enjoyed this story almost as much as her latest "In Bed with the Devil". This is the third book in a row I have read by Ms. Heath and have yet to be disappointed. So far they have all been fantastic reads with each story being very different and set apart from the previous one. She really knows how to write and pulls you in to the story form the beginning. I'm so hooked on her stories right now I am starting another one by her..."A Duke of Her Own". I love too how so many characters from past books are weaved somehow into the next one. This was a beautiful story once again. I truly felt for this hero and the love that built between him and the heroine was so believable and sweet and true. Well done again Lorraine! You've yet to let me down. Keep'em comin!



3. This is not a good read. Don't waist your time. Kate made me want to forget I read this book. I threw it away immediately after I read it. I love Lorraine Heath, but this was a no, no.



4. While she may have redeemed herself *a little* at the end, Kate was one of the worst romance heroines I've seen. If this book were rated by Michael alone, it would receive 4 stars. As it is, I can't imagine giving more than 2. Kate was selfish, conceited, disrespectful, rude, and a pushover. She treated Michael with disdain and disrespect from the beginning, and continued to do so throughout 90% of the book. I have no idea why Michael fell in love with her.
   
   In and of itself, her requirements weren't so bad, nor that unusual for a romance novel. However she was downright cruel at times, and her fear of Michael finding out the "truth" seemed a stretch. She made *such* a point of Michael getting to know her, but as she herself said, at no time did she make an effort to get to know him. She lorded the money over him, using it as a ploy to control him when he dared to displease her. She was fickle and mean to him despite his best efforts. When she was upset with him for not riding with her in the carriage, he then did as she wished and rode with her. At which point she criticized him for doing it for the "wrong" reasons! That is but one example of her treatment of him.
   
   Another point I don't get is her "love" of Wesley. He showed almost no redeeming qualities except for the fact that he catered to her wishes. He didn't seem particularly nice. He didn't seem particularly kind. And her heartbreak would have been understandable except that she couldn't seem to define why she even LIKED him, let alone loved him.
   
   Michael deserved better than Kate. Instead of finishing this book feeling happy, I left it feeling disgusted at her behavior and hating that this is reinforcing the stereotypes that comedians joke about in regards to never being able to please women.



5. I will agree with most people here, that Kate is a complete shrew, just like her nameshake Kate from Shakespeare's "The taming of the shrew". However, Ms Heath's writing style and the wonderful hero make this book a highly engrossing read, one of the best I've read lately to be exact.
   I am extremely fond of angsty romances; this one more than fits the bill.
   
   Michael, Marquess of Falconridge, auctions himself to 4-5 wealthy American fathers who are after english titles for their daughters. After this, he finds himself married to Kate, with one stipulation: he is to keep her happy if she is to sign over any money for his expenses. And Kate decides that in order to be happy, he has to love her, care for her and... find her favorite color. Thus a merry chase begins. Michael, a very tortured hero who has learned to keep his emotions locked away all his life, realizes he has to open himself to another human being if he is to gain access to his wife's money. He also has a secret that he tries to keep away from his wife, which is the real reason he needs her money. But Kate fails to realize that she is keeping her heart from him too; she is in love with another man, a man who's married to another woman. When the real relationship between this man and Kate come out, Michael is the one making demands and Kate slowly (very slowly for the reader's satisfaction in truth) begins to reconsider her feelings and actions.
   
   If Kate didn't step on Michael's pride for almost the entire length of the book this would be a solid five-star read. As it is, I can't rate it more than four, but if you like angsty, dark, emotional reads this one is not to miss. Michael is a great hero and you'll love reading about him. However, if the heroine is of maximum importance to you or you don't like dark, angsty tales, perhaps you should skip this one.

5 comments about Little Men.

1. Mention the name Louisa May Alcott, and most people will instantly think of "Little Women." But in my mind, the less often discussed "Little Men" is just as great, if not better.
   
   The story picks up shortly after the conclusion of "Little Women," with Jo and Frederick Bhaer running a school at Plumfield. Along with their own little Rob and Teddy, they are busy raising the neglected children of rich folks alongside the orphans they have taken in.
   
   While the boys exist in a virtual haven for good ol' fashioned fun upon the farmlike Plumfield, Mother and Father Bhaer still manage to teach them moral life lessons along with their classroom exercises.
   
   If you enjoy this book, be sure to pick up "Jo's Boys," which takes place ten years after "Little Men" and concludes the boys' stories.



2. Mostly I got this book because I never owned it and do own Little Women and Jo's Boys.I want my daughter to have the trilogy.I thought it was terrible.A mere series of goody-goody character sketches with very little holding it all together. If anything, it just underscored how Jo should have accepted Teddy! They were a great pair.I did not care about these boys much and even had trouble distinguishing them from one another.Jo's Boys was much better--at least a novel, so read Little Men only to fill in the blanks.



3. I was looking forward to having my own copy of Little Men, but the copy I received from publisher Hard Press had many grammatical and spelling errors. It did not have an appealing layout, either. I should return it for a better copy of the book which I know exist.



4. Who else would have liked to see the "hoyden" (read: assertive girl) Nan punch that simpering, girly-girly little twit Bess right in her lisping mouth?



5. It's a story I've read many times, but I did specifically want the cover that is pictured with this item (to match the others I have in the series), and that's not what I got. Very disappointed, a complete waste of money on my part, but not worth returning by the time I pay for interational shipping.