BOOK: Moon Over Manifest

Moon Over Manifest
by Clare Vanderpool

This is a delightful read that is well-deserving of it's Newberry Medal.  It's a wonderful story of family, friendship, hope, hard work, and love, along with plenty of action and mystery... and great characters.  This book will appeal to both boys and girls, as well as adults.

The book contains no offensive language, however, there are some mildly frightening scenes, references to alcohol use (the story takes place during prohibition), and a scene of violence (mostly just alluded too) that might be too much for younger children. 

Recommended for ages 10 and up

BOOK: Beauty Sleep (Once Upon a Time series)

Beauty Sleep (Once Upon a Time Series)
by Cameron Dokey

This retelling of "Sleeping Beauty" was fun and charming, with plenty of twists and turns and lots of adventure.  I think my boys would even like it.  Aurora is spunky and courageous, and the story teaches lessons of doing the right thing no matter what, even when it's really, really difficult.  It's also a story of true love, of course, based on a real relationship, and not just looks, or "love at first sight."  Thank goodness.

There is no inappropriate language and contains nothing more than a sweet kiss.  However, there are a few brief moments of violence, but nothing graphic.

I look forward to reading more of this series.

Recommended for ages 12 to adult

BOOK: Crossing to Safety

Crossing to Safety
by Wallace Stegner

For years my sister has been bugging me to read this book because she "knew" I would love it.  Well, she obviously knows me pretty well because this is exactly the kind of book I love.... one about regular people; their lives, relationships, struggles, pains, joys, experiences, triumphs, failures, and their personal growth.  It is also a story about luck vs. hard work, having wealth vs. being poor (but happy none-the-less), having a large close-knit family vs. having none.... among other things. 

The characters (two married couples) are well developed and interesting, and their lives are full and fascinating, and yet really simple and "normal."  Stegner's use of language is poetic and lovely.  This is a well-written novel, and yet you would think it a beautifully-written memoir.  It was the author's last novel, and it is certainly worthy to be called his final "masterpiece." 

This novel contains a few profanities and a couple of scenes vaguely implying intimacy between married couples. 

Stegner's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Angle of Repose is also on my much-too-lengthy "to-read" list.  Perhaps now I will get to it sooner than later.....

BOOK: The Castle Corona

The Castle Corona
by Sharon Creech

This charming tale is simple and complex at the same time; a traditional fairy-tale that tells the story from the point-of-view of the numerous characters, and keeps the reader engrossed and guessing. There is absolutely nothing offensive in this sweet story that children of all ages (and adults) will enjoy.  It would also be great for reading aloud. 

Creech continues to be one of my favorite authors.  Her books are all unique, but equally compelling and well-written.

Recommended for:  Ages 8 to 12

FILM: One Day (2011)

One Day (Rated PG-13)
Starring Anne Hathaway, Jim Sturgess

This is another film I watched sans-husband, though not because he was gone.... just busy preparing a Sunday School lesson for the next day.  I had heard of this one (unlike this one), probably because it starred two big names, rather than two relatively unknown actors.  The story follows the friendship of the two main characters on the same day (July 15th) through the years, as best friends, though they drift apart and back together again, on and off.  It is a heart-wrenching journey at times.

Unfortunately, though there isn't any actual sex there is lots implied (and quite a bit of discussion of it), and some partial nudity (though mostly in a non-sexual context).  Also, an f-bomb and some other mild language.  I thought it definitely pushed the PG-13 rating to the limit!

FILM: Take Me Home (2011)

Take Me Home (2011)
Rated PG-13
Starring Sam Jaeger, Amber Jaeger

Has anyone heard of this film?  I stumbled upon this little gem on Netflix one night when my husband was away.  I was specifically looking for something he wouldn't watch with me (I have to take every opportunity!), but I actually think he would have enjoyed it too.  It's billed as "Romantic Comedy" and I suppose that's accurate (there is comedy and romance) but the drama seemed more prominent, and that's what pulled me in. 

The premise is interesting.... a down-on-his luck man ends up driving a distraught woman across the country in his cab.  As they spend the days together they deal with their own personal issues, rely on each other in unexpected ways, and form a deep friendship.  There is particular scene of intense honesty that took my breath away.  It's a simple story really, but something about it stuck with me; one of the best films I never heard of.  

There is some language (no F-bombs... whew!), but no violence, nudity, or sex, though it is briefly implied. 

P.S.  This isn't really a spoiler, but it is...sort of... since I didn't know this before hand.  (And I'm glad I didn't know.)  So, in case you, like me, like to be surprised, don't read on.   The two starring actors are actually married in real life. 

BOOK: The Persian Pickle Club

The Persian Pickle Club
by Sandra Dallas

This was a book club read that I thoroughly enjoyed.... a charming story about a diverse group of women who meet on a regular basis to quilt and visit.  There are plenty of interesting characters, a little mystery, lots of drama, and a few shocking plot twists and turns.... along with some shocking language and a little violence; nothing too serious, just be warned.