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February 2024 Book Report

Two people in an independent bookstoreSo much has happened this month that has affected almost every part of my world. Too dramatic? Sorry. I don’t know how to start this post when I haven’t written here in almost a month. Let me catch you up.

What I’ve Been Doing

For starters, I officially launched my freelance communications business two weeks ago called Red Pen Resources. I’m providing creative content solutions to nonprofits and small businesses who need a fresh pair of eyes or an extra pair of hands regarding their messaging and storytelling. Feel free to check out my website!

There is a lot that goes into starting a business. I’ve been focused on networking, reaching out to potential clients, and setting up my services, pricing, and website. I already have four clients, which is fantastic! I’m excited to be at this stage in my career where I can go out on my own, work directly with people, and help them succeed. Now, I just have to figure out the work/life balance again.

I also celebrated another birthday a few weeks ago. My children came home for the weekend, which was wonderful. Jenna took me to two indie bookstores and bought me books and a candle. The name of the scent on the candle is Birthday Bookshop. How perfect is that?

Andrew bought me an Apple Gift Card to fuel my addiction to a new game I downloaded called Supermarket Village. My gaming started innocently enough. I was bored sitting in a waiting room at the doctor’s office. I left my book in the car, so I tried out this free game. My small starter supermarket came with a fresh fruit area, a dairy section, a bakery, and a meat cooler. Now, I have a much larger store with a warehouse, a frozen food section, and a fish market. And I really want to put in a salad station soon.

I know I will have to delete the game eventually, but only once I use up all the gems I bought. Hence, the gift card that my son gave me. Those shiny objects are coveted items. If I run out of them, I can’t upgrade my factories, speed up food production, or install more grocery aisles. What will I do then?!

I’m starting to understand how young people can get into these games so quickly. And their games are much more advanced than my grocery store. Something about it draws us in. It’s a guilty pleasure where I’m not anything except that I’m just as susceptible to video game obsession as my nephews. But here I am. Instead of reading my library book, folding laundry, or doing anything remotely productive, I’m secretly stocking virtual shelves and waiting on cartoonish customers.

What I’m Reading

If You Would Have Told Me by John Stamos

Cover of John Stamos' memoir called If You Would Have Told Me. What better way to start the month of February than with a memoir about a heartthrob? I’ve always thought John Stamos a talented actor and drummer. I would have loved to see him on Broadway. He has such charisma, and I admit Full House was much easier to watch (and easier on the eyes) when Uncle Jesse was on screen. Have Mercy!

However, as a writer, he should probably not quit his day job. I can sum up his book in two words: toxic masculinity. I’m not really sure why he wrote this book, except to get more money and attention. He told a few good stories, but most of them were about how horny and handsome he is and who he slept with.

The only part I was hoping to read about was his friendship/bromance with Bob Saget. He rushed through that part in my opinion. He could have shared a ton more anecdotes, but he held back. He held back so much that in one chapter they meet and don’t get along, and then they become friends. The next chapter they marry beautiful women and Saget dies. There is a big scene toward the end of the book about how, where, and when he received the news, which felt like it was written from a movie script. I finished the book incredibly disappointed.

This book was a fast read, and I’d recommend it for the behind-the-scenes General Hospital and Full House stories. The Beach Boys also play a big part in his life story, and because I’m a fan of their music, I found those sections enjoyable. But that’s about it. There wasn’t a lot of lessons learned, closure, or self-awareness, which I find endearing in other celebrity memoirs I’ve read.

I’m so glad I borrowed this book from the library and didn’t pay for it. Two stars tops.

The Most Fun I Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

Book Cover for the book "The Most Fun We Ever Had"Before I get into this review, let me say that I don’t typically choose books that are over 400 pages. 350-375 pages tops, but above that, I tend to lose interest. This book was recommended to me by a few people. I also listened to a podcast that compared it to the TV show, Parenthood, which I loved. So, I decided to give it a try, all 562 pages!

It’s true the set up is very much like that of Parenthood. Marilyn and David have four daughters- Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace. The book is a deep dive into this family dynamic. Each daughter has a different personality, and their lifestyles are just as varied. One is wealthy and widowed. One is married with two kids and a secret child she had as a teenager that comes back into her life. One is married, pregnant, and yet lonely. And one is living a lie.

I loved so many things about this book. First of all, I loved that the author didn’t focus solely on the daughters, their husbands, and grandchildren. The parents have a backstory, a fully-fleshed out marriage and a relationship just as interesting as the daughters. The author delves into how they handle all the twists and turns that life brings, and I wish more authors had such well thought out middle age characters in their books. The daughters lives were just as interesting and the characters’ lives were described in such a detailed way that I imagined I knew them in real life. This is one of those books that if it were made into a movie, I’d have fun figuring out who I’d cast in each part. For starters, Kurt Russell as the Dad. If anyone has read this book and wants to play along, let me know!

Of course, the book could have been about a 100 pages shorter and maybe it would have been a five-star book for me. There is also a character who is severely depressed, and I feel the author missed out on an opportunity to show how that can affects a relationship. Especially, if that particular daughter took on a more supportive role instead of an annoyed one. I also wish the chapters were titled with which woman they were talking about. Too often, I got confused as to whose story I was reading about now. The book jumps around between all the family members and between present day and flashbacks. There were several times that I thought I was reading about one daughter, and I was wrong.

I’d give this book four stars because it has to be a really interesting story for me to stick with a book for nearly 600 pages. I read the print version and probably could have gotten through it faster if I had listened on Audible. If I want to read longer books in the future, I will remember that I can adjust the speed in an audio version and take it with me in the car or listen while I’m folding laundry. I think I would have had time to fit in one more book this month if I had read it that way.

Oh well. Live and learn!

March Books

For the month of March, I am digging into my “to be read” list and only picking what is on my shelves. I have one book on hold at the library that could come in soon and throw a wrench into my plans. But that book is only 340 pages, so it shouldn’t be too bad.

I’m in the middle of two craft books about writing that I’d like to finish. I also have a few fiction titles that have been on my bookshelf for way too long. At this point, they are collecting a lot of dust. I need to either read them or donate them to make room for more books. I think I’ll read them. 🙂

What did you read last month? Let me know in the comments.

XO,

Elisa

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End of January 2024 Book Report

It’s the end of the month, which means it’s time for another book review blog post! It’s been a good start to my reading year. So far, all four books have been winners. My biggest problem now is to figure out what books to read next. I’m doing a Backlist Book Challenge, where certain pub years are given, and I’m supposed to find books on my shelf from that year to read. The first year is 2014. I’ve had one book on my shelf that I’ve wanted to read for a long time. “The Secret Keeper” by Kate Morton was published in 2014. I’ve heard people say that this is one of their favorite books of all time. So, because of those rave reviews and the pub date, it is now further up on my TBR list. That is after I finish the three books I’m reading now. 🙂

But before we get to those books, here is what I read at the end of January.

Family Family by Laurie Frankel

This is such a fantastic book but a tough one to review. I hope this makes sense, and I do it justice.

Many films depict negative stereotypes about adoption. Off the top of my head, there is the rescue trope, such as in musicals like Oliver or Annie and, more recently, The Blind Side. Other movies focus on more dramatic or sinister adoption stories like Orphan (horror) or Losing Isaiah (drama). The only film about adoption that I haven’t cringed at and quite enjoyed is Juno, a compassionate story about teen pregnancy and successful adoption (with a twist).

The book Family Family falls into the compassionate category, thankfully. The main character, India, is a woman who is pregnant at 16 and decides to place her baby with a single mother. India goes on to have a successful acting career that she always dreamed of and later adopts two kids of her own. But after she acts in a movie about a tragic adoption, she feels compelled to set the record straight about these types of stories. She lets the viewing public know that most adoptions are without pain and regret. Her comments set off a publicity firestorm that jeopardizes her career but also brings her entire family back together.

This book had well-developed characters, a terrific storyline, and a heartwarming message. All the things I love about a great read. I love how the author shows how dreams of having a family can come true through adoption. While it can sometimes be complicated, family is family, whether biological or otherwise. There are so many more times when adoption results in a loving and permanent relationship as opposed to what you see in the movies. But I guess those films don’t sell as many tickets.

Books written by this author, Laurie Frankel, are a must-buy for me. I also loved her book, This Is How It Always Is, which is about a family with a transgender child. Family Family has a special place in Frankel’s heart because she also adopted her children, so she speaks from experience. Her author’s note at the end was poignant and compelling. I wish it were at the beginning of the book to set the scene, but I guess it wasn’t necessary. But please don’t skip it. It’s a must read, just like this book.

Things You Save In A Fire by Katherine Center

I try to avoid books that receive a ton of publicity and hype. Too often, I am disappointed. But after many recommendations from friends (Thanks, Meryl! 🙂 ),  I decided to give it a chance.

I’m so glad I did!

Here is the setup for Things You Save in a Fire. Cassie is the only female firefighter in her new firehouse. She has to prove herself to the rest of the squad (I wonder if that’s the correct term… ). She has to deal with poor facilities and a need for more funding for equipment. She also takes her share of teasing and hazing like a champ at first, but then things go a little too far, and she needs to figure out who to trust. Meanwhile, Cassie also moves back in with her estranged mother, and the relationship there is tense but not hopeless.

I didn’t like Cassie at the beginning of the story. She is tough on the outside and disrespectful to her mother, who needs her help. But once she started to melt a little (mild spoiler alert), I liked her more and more.

It was also to have an insider’s look into the life of a firefighter which was interesting. I like reading about different careers that I would never do. I have a new appreciation for these heroes in our communities.

What I’m Reading Next

I’m in the middle of two books right now and have a third waiting in the wings. One is a craft book on writing called “1,000 Words: A Writer’s Guide to Staying Creative, Focused, and Productive All Year Round.” On the fiction side, I’m reading a 500+ page book entitled “The Most Fun We Ever Had.” I was told that if I like the TV show Parenthood, I’d love this book. So far…so good. It’s a library book, and I hope it is eligible for renewal because this will take a while. I also just picked up John Stamos’s memoir, “If You Would Have Told Me.” I heard one podcaster say he clearly wrote this for the paycheck, but I’m willing to try it.

What are you reading? Also, do you have any book-related questions for me? I’m happy to answer them in a future blog post!

Let me know in the comments.

HAPPY READING!

XO,

Elisa

Mid-January Book Report

New Book Reviews in 2024!


I’ve decided to do two book reports a month—one mid-month and again at the end. Last year, as I was writing these reviews, I found myself forgetting the storylines of the books I read earlier in the month. This could be due to brain fog, but more likely, I’m just easily distracted by shiny new titles. Does anyone else have this problem? Seriously, who remembers what they ate for lunch yesterday, let alone the plot of the book they read recently (but not that recently!)?

The other reason I’m going to write two posts a month is because I really want to read 50 books this year. To accomplish this goal, I need to finish at least four books a month. I know I’m a fairly fast and avid reader, so this is doable, even though it is a bit of a stretch. And if you are doing the math, I know that only amounts to 48 books. However, I can sneak a few extra titles in here and there. Some months, I may only read three, while others may read eight novels (see my December 2023 Book Report).

Without further ado, here are two book reviews to consider for your TBR pile.

The Life Council: 10 Friends Every Woman Needs
by Laura Tremaine

The Live Council book coverAuthor and podcaster Laura Tremaine wrote an engaging book about making and keeping friends as adults and creating a sort of cabinet of go-to people you can rely on. She also talks about letting go of friends who no longer fit into your life, which is never easy but sometimes happens.

Her book promises to:

  • Create your own “life council” with the friends you already have
  • Understand the ten kinds of friends every woman needs–and how to find them
  • Learn how to evaluate your friendship circle for what’s working and what might need to change
  • Navigate tough conversations with friends
  • Get excited again about the possibility of new friendships

This is what the book promises, and IT DELIVERS!

As I was reading, I reflected on my friend groups and began to sort them in the categories Tremaine set forth. Some categories were easier than others. And for a few categories, I had no one specific in mind.

For instance, I have a friend I used to work with, and we were both mentally exhausted by the toxic leadership style where we were employed. We have been through hell together on a daily basis and survived it. And the best part is that we continue our friendship to this day, watching and helping each other grow from that shared experience and thrive. She is what the author referred to as my “battle buddy” —someone who has walked with you during a difficult time. There are nine other categories proposed by the author that aptly and accurately describe the friendships I have today. It was interesting to see where some seats need to be filled, and how other seats had more than one person who could sit there.

The Life Council is not only a book you will want on your shelves, but you may want to gift it to a friend or someone you love. I give this book four stars. For those of you who read my Book Confessions blog post, you now know this is the book I was planning on getting for my daughter for her birthday but couldn’t find. I’m ordering it online and sending it to her this week instead.

Being Henry: The Fonz…and Beyond
by Henry Winkler

I grew up on Happy Days and The Fonz. Tuesday nights were must-see TV in my house. The shows were funny, brilliantly written, and always entertaining and family-friendly. Henry Winkler plays such an iconic character, and it’s no wonder he was typecast after the show ended. However, he made the best of it with producer and director credits. And then, he has a comeback story with the movie Water Boy and the popular HBO series Barry, for which he won his first primetime Emmy.

I gave this book three stars because while the behind-the-scenes stories were fun to read, I wanted to know more about his battle with dyslexia and how he came to accept and work through it. I was also sad to learn he had a rough upbringing because he was raised by strict parents who doubted his intelligence and abilities. Back then, I’m not sure if dyslexia was as documented as it is today. Still, his parents could have been a lot nicer and more supportive. While discussing his dyslexia in any TV interview, he didn’t elaborate much more than what I already heard.

Also, this book won the Goodreads 2023 Best Humor Award. But let me say this: this is not a funny book. Henry Winkler writes about his anxiety as a result of his upbringing and dyslexia in a way that makes me feel sad for him. I can empathize with his situation, but I’m not laughing with him like other writers who have written on this topic.

Side Note: This is one of the reasons I don’t read reviews on Goodreads. It’s an online popularity contest. As a reader, I wonder why this book is in the humor category at all. The other choices were books written by actual comedians like Leslie Jones and Amber Ruffin or essay collections from professional writers with a keen sense of humor. My only explanation is that whoever was in charge of this category didn’t read this book. However, if the book were in the memoir category, he might have had a shot. However, he would have gone up against Brittany Spears’s memoir, which won by a landslide. Hence, the popularity contest.

Anyway, Being Henry is a nice story, and his treasured friendships with Ron Howard and John Ritter were especially poignant to read. I’d recommend it, but I would check it out of your local library.

Sorry, Fonzie, I still love you and hope you come to Philly sometime so I can meet you. Above all, you are a mensch!

XO,

Elisa

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