Princeton Book Review- Book club recommendations

book reviews and book club recommendations

Historical Fiction
	My Name Is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira PBR Review: If you’re a fan of historical fiction you are going to love this book. The characters and the situations the author presents truly give you a slice of life during the Civil War era. The novel centers on Mary Sutter and her More

Talking Points: The main character is a strong and inspiring woman who wants to be a surgeon. It's set during the Civil War when this option was only available to men. Her journey in pursuit of this goal is hard and demanding; a very compelling read. The opportunities not available to women at this time and the disastrous effects of war are also thought provoking topics covered in this book. It's well researched and includes many facts about the life style of this era and events of the Civil War. The story line also lends itself to discussions on the topics of love, grief and family dynamics. Recommended for book clubs that appreciate historical fiction, stories about strong females or like reading about the civil war.

Historical Fiction
	The Red Queen by Philippa Gregory PBR Review: This is the second book in the cousin’s war trilogy. The story is told from the perspective of Margaret Beaufort, the mother of Henry VII and grandmother of Henry VIII. This is a period in England’s History that is marked More

Talking Points: This book truly captures the life style and emotional strife of royalty during the mid to late 1400's. The events depicted show the turncoat nature of people and the need to question the loyalty of everyone. It's fascinating and thought provoking to read about the conflicting values of Margaret Beaufort who is extremely devout, considers herself favored by God and yet is self serving and ruthless. Other interesting threads are the role of woman, the meaning of family and marriage and the sacrifices necessary to snare (and keep) the throne. Recommended for book clubs that enjoy historical fiction or enjoy books featuring strong woman.

mystery
	31 Bond Street by Ellen Horan PBR Review: This book is a wonderful blend of mystery, courtroom drama and historical fiction. It’s based on the true story of Dr. Harvey Burdell’s grisly murder in 1857. I enjoyed it immensely from start to finish. Horan takes a very More

Talking Points: The setting for this book is Manhattan in 1857. There's lots of detail about everyday life and also the legal system of this era. The book highlights the difficulties of being a widow and the limited choices available for women as well as some very interesting social and courting customs. There are threads covering the political corruption present and the slave trade. One particularly interesting point highlighted was the prominent role newspapers played in the legal process. Recommended for book clubs that enjoy mysteries, suspense novels,or historical fiction.

fiction
	A Friend of the Family by Lauren Grodstein PBR Review: Almost from the start I was drawn into this book in a very compelling way. I liked that the story is told from the perspective of a father as so often this genre of book is carried by a female voice. You also know straigh More

Talking Points: There are some great discussion points in this book; all centered on the boundaries of friendship and family relationships. Anyone with children, but especially those with young adult children, will relate and find much to talk about as it deals heavily with some very sensitive family issues that will certainly trigger the emotions. A great book for clubs that enjoy a light but emotional read on family and friendships.

Historical Fiction
	Girl In Translation by Jean Kwok PBR Review: This is a touching book that explores the hardships and sacrifices a person faces in adapting to a new culture. The primary focus of the book is the determination and inner strength necessary for immigrants to survive and i More

Talking Points: An interesting story with strong believable characters that battle both seen and unseen demons. The mental and physical stamina necessary to integrate into a foreign country will create lots of talking points. There is also a subplot on living in the slums and working in sweat shops. This life style although not a choice creates humiliation and the fear of exposure fosters isolation. The same can be said for the language barriers and the prejudices faced by immigrants. The book strongly demonstrates a deep loving bond between Kimberly and her mother. How important a role this was will be another interesting discussion point. The storyline has broad appeal and is perfect for mother and daughter to read together. Great for book clubs that enjoy character driven novels and appreciate a beautiful writing style.

Historical Fiction
	The Rebellion of Jane Clarke by Sally Gunning PBR Review: This is an engaging coming of age story set in the pre revolutionary war period, a time in our country’s history marked by turmoil and conflict. Sally Gunning weaves some great period detail as she sheds light on what life More

Talking Points: The focus of this book revolves around a young women coming of age in the Colonial Period. Shes quite progressive for this era and contrasting the differences to todays progressive young woman will generate lots of conversation for book clubs. There are also interesting and insightful threads on long term happiness in a marriage,love and integrity.This would make a great selection for book clubs that enjoy historical fiction, discussing womens issues and prefer a quite deep read.

fiction
	The kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom PBR Review: The Kitchen House is an absorbing story of slavery and life on a big plantation. The story is narrated in alternating chapters by two distinct characters; Belle, a black slave and Lavinia a white indentured servant, whose p More

Talking Points: Contrasting the differences in opportunities and treatment afforded a white indentured servant and a black slave will provide lot of great discussion. Additionally, this sad period in our history that condoned slavery and failed to recognize an entire group of people as human beings, will also spark conversation. The book highlights the complexity of human nature and provides a nice mix of flawed characters with questionable motives and actions. The meaning of family is also strongly portrayed in this book, which is always a good conversation starter.

Historical Fiction
	The Wives of Henry Oades by Johanna Moran PBR Review: This is a very unique tale made more intriguing because it is based on a true court case. Book clubs in particular should enjoy this book, there’s lots of thought provoking legal and moral discussion points. Henry, thinking More

Talking Points: The relationship that developes between the two wives is the thread that will generate the most discussion in this book, both in its own right, taking place in the 1800's and contrasting the same circumstances happening today. Book clubs will also enjoy discussing the actions of Henry which are disturbing and inconsistent. Another discussion topic; do circumstances beyond a person's control change what's right or wrong? This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy well written character driven stories.

fiction
	Sarahs Key by Tatiana de Rosnay PBR Review: In 1942 the French Police rounded up their own Jewish citizens for the Nazi’s to be placed in the a French arena named the Velodrome d Hiver and then transported to the death camps. When twelve year old Sarah receives a kno More

Talking Points: Like most books depicting the events of the Holocaust, this book will provoke thought and conversation about the duplicity of human nature and the horrors one human being is capable of inflicting on another. It also highlights a little known event in history which book clubs may enjoy learning and talking about. It will have appeal to book clubs that enjoy a light but captivating story.

fiction
	The Help by Katheryn Stockett PBR Review: This is an entertaining story that takes place in Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement. Initially I did not like the deep southern dialect of the two maids, but once I accepted this, I was drawn into the book and wa More

Talking Points: An excellent book club choice that stirs up emotions and leaves the reader wanting more. It takes place during the height of the civil rights era and has provocative characters that feel authentic. Book clubs will enjoy discussing the three very remarkable, very different women who tell this story and the interactions between the black maids and their white employers. The dynamics of this time period with its social injustices will also stimulate lots of lively discussion. This is a book that stays with you long after you have finished it.

fiction
	The Weight of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf PBR Review: I thought the beginning of this book was a little weak and at times slow. However, once the story takes hold, it is a nicely written touching book that evokes a lot of emotion. It’s told from the perspectives of each of the More

Talking Points: Book clubs will find many excellent discussion points in this book. The story revolves around a child with selective mutism which will spark conversation on this topic as well as other childhood issues. Family dynamics and motherhood are also strong threads as well as the effects of alcoholism on parenting and a family. There is also a theme about the difficulties women face when dealing with abuse that makes for great discussion. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy a light read with emotional impact.

fiction
	The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory PBR Review: Philippa Gregory’s characters are complex and immensely engaging. The story is thought provoking, multi layered and brimming with unending intrigue and suspense; fueled by the greedy, ambitious, scheming and dangerously vaci More

Talking Points: The inner circle of King Henry VIII was in a perpetual state of turmoil, due largely to the King's impulsive and whimsical nature. This not only makes for an entertaining read but fosters lively discussion. There are also plenty of women's issues to discuss as many threads running through this novel show how they were abused and manipulated as part of a power play. Additionally, issues of social injustices and greed will spark conversation. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy historical fiction or a light captivating story.

fiction
	The Wednesday Sisters by Meg Waite CLayton PBR Review: I found this book slightly hard to get into, initially it felt like it was going to lack depth and fall into the “too light” chick lit category. But it wasn’t long before I was glad I persevered. Not only was this book deli More

Talking Points: This book takes place during the late 60's and early 70's when the women's movement was just beginning and civil rights were a part of everyday conversation. Book clubs will enjoy discussing both these issues and also the change in social mores from then to present day. The strong bonds that develop between the "Wednesday Sisters" will also spark conversation on the meaning and importance of friendship. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy a light but emotionally engaging story.

fiction
	Still Alice by Lisa Genova PBR Review: This is an extremely compelling novel, written in a sensitive and compassionate style that allows you to feel what it’s like to be diagnosed and live with Alzheimer’s disease. Prior to reading this when Alzheimer’s was ment More

Talking Points: This book is so touching and the voice of Alice so real, when finished you can't stop thinking and talking about it. As the cloud of Alzheimer's descends upon Alice, the simple clear writing style of Lisa Genova allows the reader to feel the full haunting impact of this disease. Any book club that enjoys beautifully written emotionally charged books will enjoy this one.

fiction
	The Heretics Daughter by Kathleen Kent PBR Review: This is a fascinating look at life in the late 1600’s during the small pox epidemic and the Salem Witch trials. Kathleen Kent beautifully relates the details of every day life in this harsh period of our history. She skillf More

Talking Points: This book, set during the Salem Witch trials, will spark conversation on many levels. There is a beautiful mother daughter theme that will generate conversation on unconditional love. The powerlessness of the family and friends of an accused witch and the unthinkable living conditions in prison will also be great discussion points. The manner in which the trials are carried out, the clear injustice to the victims and the religious zeal underlying this period of our history will also generate lots of emotion and discussion. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy well written captivating stories or historical fiction.

fiction
	The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa PBR Review: This is an elegant, calm read that will most likely never appear on any bestseller lists. There is no emotional roller coaster or highs and lows, only excellent prosaic writing and a simple elegant story with real characters More

Talking Points: Charming and heartwarming, this is a story that will prompt discussion on the meaning of friendship, unconditional love, living in the moment, the meaning of family and the curious problem of only having eighty minutes of short term memory. Book clubs that enjoy beautifully written character driven stories will enjoy this one.

fiction
	Brooklyn by Colm Toibin PBR Review: This is what I call a quiet book. The writing is open and clear but subtle, it does not overpower, allowing you to take in and get caught up in every detail. The prosaic style creates powerful emotions as you follow the le More

Talking Points: The main character, Ellis is flawed and very conflicted but also a character that's easy to relate to and identify with; book clubs should enjoy discussing her choices and actions. The differences between life in Brooklyn and Ireland in the 50's and the opportunities available to young women are both fascinating aspects of this book which should generate conversation. Book clubs should also enjoy discussing the emotional impact of starting a completely new life;the changes that take place and the type of person capable of doing this and perhaps contrasting these traits with those of Ellis. This book will have appeal to book clubs that enjoy a more literary read and character driven novels.

fiction
	The Guernsey Literary Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows PBR Review: I think what resonates most with me about this book is the witty distinct style of each character. When I first noticed the book was in letter form I was hesitant to buy it; feeling this format may hinder the flow of the st More

Talking Points: This book is written in letter style. Book clubs should enjoy discussing the effectiveness of this style and what it adds or takes from the story. The basic plot is the aftermath of war and the toll it takes on people and in a larger sense a town, which will also generate lots of interesting discussion. The strength of this book lies in the amazing characters which are fully developed and unique. Book clubs will enjoy discussing the different aspects of what makes them so real and why they stay with you long after the end of the story. This book will appeal to Book clubs that enjoy well written character driven plots.

mystery
	The Indian Bride by Karin Fossum PBR Review: A wonderfully written Inspector Sejer mystery centered in a small Norwegian village filled with suspense and intrigue. It’s not your typical mystery. Rather than tracking down clues and eliminating suspects the heart of the More

Talking Points: Although a great mystery it's also a study in the fragility of being human. Several threads and characters of this book will provoke thought and stimulate conversation. Book clubs will enjoy discussing the complexity of small town life and it's impact on a murder investigation. Gunder is a beautifully drawn character,but also one whose actions can be questioned on many levels with different interpretations likely. The same can be said for several relationships in the story. This is the fourth book in this series but it does very well as a standalone novel. It's very nicely written with great character development.

fiction
	Little Bee by Chris Cleave PBR Review: After reading this beautifully written story the fragility of life is crystal clear. I could not stop thinking about it. What would I do? Could I have done the same thing? How would I feel or cope. I’m not sure. It will More

Talking Points: Book clubs will enjoy discussing the many complex social issues and injustices of a corrupt government. The book also beautifully explores relationships, love and loss and has characters, Little Bee and Sarah in particular, whose actions and motivations will promote discussion. Little Bee has strong survival instincts for example, but does this necessarily justify questionable behavior? Various threads will also lead to conversation about valuing and appreciating one's life and the trials of immigration. This story will appeal to book clubs that enjoy a well written character driven novel.

mystery
	Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick PBR Review: I stayed up late a few nights reading this beautifully written book; it was hard to put down. The story is intense and Goolrick’s writing style is powerful; a dynamic combination that will seriously hook you. His descripti More

Talking Points: The intense writing style is what makes this book stand out and will also stimulate conversation for book clubs. The characters are all well developed and terribly flawed. Their actions consistently anger, confuse and surprise; all of which flow together for some healthy discussion. The basic needs of human beings and the measures one takes to satisfy them, as well as the desperation that accompanies loneliness and grief are also threads that will stimulate conversation. In general, readers seem to either love or hate this book, maybe due to the dark undertone or some of the circumstances and actions which defy logic. It will appeal to book clubs that enjoy well written character driven stories.

fiction
	The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein PBR Review: I loved this feel good original book. Garth Stein not only entertained me, but gave me a new found appreciation for my dog. Non animal lovers don’t be put off, it’s not an animal story. It's about life, love and relationshi More

Talking Points: This book is original and entertaining. Although told from the perspective of a dog,it's really about love, loss,family and life's lessons; all great topics for discussions. What makes it exceptional is the writing style, which allows the reader to experience the emotions. Be prepared to laugh and cry with this one. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy a light but emotionally engaging story.

fiction
	The Book Thief by Markus Zusak PBR Review: Although this book is labeled Young Reader, it is packed with enough personality and thought provoking substance to make its appeal much broader. Initially the young adult label put me off, but it was recommended with such e More

Talking Points: The narrator of this book is death and his perspective on war and the day to day lives of the characters is unique and a great discussion topic. The voice the author chooses for him will also spark conversation; it's impartial and devoid of emotion causing different perspectives on the same topic to emerge. There are several other threads that will also generate discussion such as abandonment, the atrocities of war, and the power and allure of the written word. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy well written captivating stories.

fiction
	Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum PBR Review: I loved this book so much I stayed in on a Saturday night to finish reading it. Get ready for a lot of soul searching as you read this heart wrenching story of a mothers love and the agony of holocaust. As an interesting twi More

Talking Points: Aside from the atrocities of war, the interesting discussion point that will surface after reading this book is that it's told from the perspective of German citizens and depicts their struggles, the guilt they harbored and the compromises they made for survival. The actions of the main character will cause the reader to wonder what they would do under similar circumstances and also generate conversation on the devastating impact of war for survivors and the risks involved in aiding the Jewish. Book clubs whose members have children will especially relate to and want to discuss certain threads of this book. This book will appeal to book clubs that enjoy a well written story with emotional impact.