White Sleeper

By David R. Fett and Stephen Langford

From the back of the book:

When Arkansas experiences a wave of rare fatal diseases, the CDC sends disgraced doctor Dave Richards to investigate, and he knows this is the case that could save his career. When he teams up with FBI agent Paula Mushari, Richards thinks he may have found the person who can help him find the answers. But as they dig deeper, they begin to get a sinister glimpse into what they are dealing with—a vengeful sect, led by the son of a late white supremacist, intent on destroying a nation. As Richards fights to save his job, he and Mushari must race against the clock to prevent a plague of catastrophic proportions.

Just my opinion:

I really enjoyed this story. Co-written by a doctor and television writer, it explores what would happen if the country was suddenly facing a plague so deadly that finding the source was critical to save the lives of hundreds of thousands of people.

This book is very edge-of-your-seat and I had a difficult time putting it down. As the two main characters race the clock, I found myself reading faster and faster as the tension built.

The writing style isn’t the best and could have used some keen editing, but the story itself is so great that it makes up for it. I liked most of the characters, especially the female FBI agent. I felt her personality was key to the storyline and the authors did a fine job helping the reader get to know her personally and professionally.

Full of espionage and intrigue, this is a book that you really must read. It’s a super story and very interesting.

Some favorite passages from the book:

Back in the 1800s, when Congress was considering making it a state, a lobbyist named George Willing suggested the Indian name Idaho. It stuck, but it was later discovered that the name was a prank by Mr. Willing. The word “Idaho” had no meaning. Mr. Willing, however, sealed his place in history by providing the only state name that meant absolutely nothing.

Dave wasn’t sure if this was what it meant to make one’s own destiny. Until now, he’d been certain he’d squandered his chances. But being suddenly thrown into the middle of this crisis had made him reconsider his dire, albeit cynical, life forecast.

When you live a life built on luck, crashing and burning was a natural by-product.

Children’s Book Week: May 2 to 8, 2011

"There are many little ways to enlarge your child's world. Love of books is the best of all." ~ Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

This post is a slight interruption in the Mother’s Day series because I didn’t want to miss out on mentioning this is Children’s Book Week, the national celebration of books and reading for youth.

Since 1919, Children's Book Week has been celebrated countrywide with author and illustrator appearances, parties, storytelling and other book-related events in schools, libraries, bookstores, clubs – anywhere where kids and books connect.

Reading to children has always been important to me. I was an early reader and never lost my love of books. In fact, I did everything I could to instill that same fondness of reading in my own children and, now, my grandchildren.

I’m also a member of the local library board of directors, which gives me additional opportunities to promote reading among young people.

This week, across the nation, folks are finding ways to celebrate reading and children. For my contribution, I’m posting reviews for two great books you can read with your own child.

Pelly and Mr. Harrison Visit the Moon by Lindsay Ward

From the book jacket:

 An ordinary evening turns extraordinary when Pelly and Mr. Harrison notice something special about the bathtub. There’s a rocket engine attached to the end. Landing softly on the moon, they meet a little alien who introduces them to the delights of lunar living – s’moons, star catching, moon rock digging. It’s a shame they have to get back, and they’ll never see their new friend again…Or will they?

Just my opinion:

This is a great book for any child who loves bedtime stories. Pelly and Mr. Harrison (her dog) are getting ready for bed. Pelly is brushing her teeth when she notices the bathtub has a rocket engine and they climb in for a fun time in outer space. They discover lots of fun stuff on the moon, including a green alien who takes them on a tour of her planet. It’s a charming book with wonderful illustrations and I’m looking forward to reading this to my grandchildren.

Author Lindsay Ward grew up in California where she learned to love the ocean and the sunshine. She earned a bachelor's degree in illustration from Syracuse University and now lives in Ohio.

To learn more about her and this book, visit her website or her blog.

Adventures of Rusty and Ginger Fox by Tim Ostermeyer

From the book jacket:

When two young foxes set out to explore the forest, they encounter all kinds of creatures. Some of them are friendly, while others would like nothing more than to eat the two young explorers! Rusty and Ginger may be able to outfox bears, bobcats, cougars and wolves, but can they unlock the mysterious box that awaits them on Treasure Island? And will the little girls they meet there turn out to be friends or foes?

Just my opinion:

Charming and delightful! Those are probably the two words that best describe this wonderful book every child will enjoy. Young readers will be thrilled with the tale and those who are just learning will love the adorable photos that accompany the story. And sprinkled along the way are some interesting facts about the animals found in forests, including humans.

Author Tim Ostermeyer is a master photographer and has won more than 250 first-place awards. That’s evident as soon as you open the pages. The expressions on the faces of these endearing young foxes will make you want to read this book again and again with your children or, like me, grandchildren.

As an extra bonus, be sure to check out the book’s website. There you can take a look inside the book and download a variety of coloring pages. You can also find out what to do if you encounter wild animals in the forest, as well as read some tips on wildlife photography. And if you live in Texas, you can find out where Tim will be speaking.

Too Rich and Too Thin: Not an Autobiography

By Barbara DeShong

From the back of the book:

“Pack your bags for Texas and prepare to meet the strangest family since that little Chainsaw Massacre incident. Psychologist Jessica LeFave will be your guide, but be forewarned, Dr. LeFave isn’t your average shrink, and though her wisecracking lawyer buddy, will try to keep Jessica out of trouble, he might not be able to save you, or himself.”

What a hoot! In this book, Dr. Jessica LaFave is asked to profile the killer of an author known for rewriting historical events into racy novels and movies. The author was a patient of the doctor’s husband at the time of his death. Jessica is convinced her husband’s death was no accident and she is determined to uncover the truth.

Barbara DeShong has a Ph.D. in psychology, which adds a great dimension to the story. She knows what she’s talking about and brings her knowledge to the murder mystery.

So, as the main character gathers clues, interviews potential witnesses and takes time out to ride her horse, the reader is drawn into this wonderful little story. It’s quite enjoyable and even those who aren’t mystery fans will enjoy it.

French Letters: Engaged in War

By Jack Woodville London

From the press release:

“Engaged in War is the story of Will Hastings, a young Army doctor from Tierra, Texas, who arrives in Normandy amidst the D-Day landings and soon finds himself walking a moral tightrope between saving lives and a growing urge to avenge the death of his brother, his friends and the loss of control over his life. Isolated and unaware of troubles brewing back home, his story unfolds first in the make-shift field surgery and then on the battlefield, where he is wounded and then ordered to leave the field hospital and give testimony in a military court martial. On misstep in his account could lead to the death penalty for his best friend or the prosecution of the country girl who saved his life.”

Jack Woodville London is a historian who looks at the profound results of war. This is his second book in his acclaimed series. The first was Virginia’s War, which was a finalist for three top awards. If you go to his website (http://jwlbooks.com/), you will learn about his letter’s project. London collects letters written by those who have been to war and brings them to light. You can also follow the link to his blog where he discusses some of the people he’s come in contact with while researching for his book and more.

Engaged in War is a fascinating novel. Not only is it an endearing story, the history behind it is evident and very interesting. The book covers a brief interlude in time – one year – yet there is so much emotion within these 319 pages. London is able to transport you right to the scene, creating a tale that is every bit as “engaging” as the title.

The Wolf of Tebron

 By C.S. Lakin

From the back of the book:

Joran dreams of living a simple life as a blacksmith in his forested village of Tebron. But when his wife, Charris, disappears in a whisk of magic, his dream shatters as he is forced to go on a perilous journey to the ends of the world to rescue her.”

You just can’t help but feel for the main character in this enchanting story. Here is a man who only wants to live his life in peace, surrounding by family and enjoying the simple things life offers. He has a good job, a loving wife and life seems good.

Then it all falls apart in the blink of an eye. Many would simply give up or resign themselves to fate, but not so with Joran. He’s bound and determined to find his wife and bring her back home. But in order to do that, he must make what seems to be an impossible journey.

This fantasy is written in the style of C.S. Lewis. In fact, the author pays Lewis homage with her pen name. She styles her story as a fairy tale and it’s positively a joy to read. It’s a tale designed for adults to share with their children, making it fun for all ages. You’re sure to enjoy not just the story itself, but the poems and lyrics the characters quote. There is also a study guide in the back of the book to provide discussion between family members or book clubs.

Letters from Sweetwater

By Dr. Dale Garland

From the back of the book:

“Deep in the mountains of North Carolina is a tiny but wondrous valley called Sweetwater. Mysterious forces, both good and evil, have converged there to produce a tender but compelling story. Through occasional flights of fantasy, Jesse Gernon gets to peep “behind the curtain” and catch a glimpse of the glory land. What he discovers there may prove to be far different than anything you ever have imagined, but come see for yourself and be prepared for the unexpected.”

I’ve read many books that take place in areas where a specific vernacular is apparent. The southern U.S. is one such place. Often, the writer tries to imitate that speech in words and it comes off as awkward and difficult to read.

Not so with this book! I was pleasantly surprised with how the author made sure you knew these people were from the south, yet he didn’t go overboard with the dialogue. He included some of the slang, but he didn’t make it so consistently “southern” that it was hard to get past.

I also liked the characters and how the author made them very open. The reader will feel they know the characters personally and whether they like each one or not, they begin to seem like friends or relatives.

This is a rare book. I enjoyed the story line, but even if it’s not your cup of tea, you will certainly enjoy reading this novel. The author did a good job and I’m anxious to read more of his work in the future.

When No One Is Watching

By Joseph Hayes

From the back of the book:

“On the eve of announcing his run for Congress, a charismatic Chicago politician causes a deadly accident. Panicked, he frames his best friend, a good-hearted alcoholic, and flees the scene. As one man tries to pick up the pieces of his shattered life, the other embarks on a meteoric rise to political stardom. But when a dogged detective digs deeper into the case, the political superstar must decide just how far he is willing to keep his dark secret.”

Combining political intrigue, suspense and a unique set of personalities, this book is definitely a page-turner. I found this novel hard to put down and very much enjoyed it.

With fast-paced action and writing, the author brings to life a story of what one man will do to reach his goals … even at the expense of his best friend and his own integrity. His desire to please his wife and father-in-law, along with his own greed, destroys his law partner’s life. At the same time, he climbs the political ladder on his way to the Governor’s Mansion and, eventually, the White House.

Entertaining and inspiring, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.