Patron Reviews
The Marble Faun
Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Marble Faun. 1860. (Fiction Hawth.N)
The Portrait of a Lady
James, Henry. The Portrait of a Lady. 1880. (Fiction James.H 1995)
This is the novel that marks the transition to James' major phase. He has committed himself to living and writing in England--America does not offer the necessary tradition and cultural support. This is also where he creates the main character as a center of consciousness, sensitive to the nuances of human behavior which he is now becoming masterful at depicting. I had read this novel when a college student, but I did not yet have the life experience to appreciate the portrait of betrayal involving Isabel Archer, Madame Merle, and Gilbert Osmond. How Isabel rises above their treachery and chooses not to perpetuate the cycle made this a wonderful work to return to. (Jack S.)
The Girl With Glass Feet
Shaw, Ali. The Girl With Glass Feet. 2010. (Fiction Shaw.A)
A fairy tale set in a cold, snowy, cloudy northern island, this story's setting is not typical for a summer read, yet this story captivates with vivid descriptions of the scenery and the enchanted and strange island. A mysterious love story develops. The writer's talent with words held me and the mythical story has me pondering. I look forward to reading more of Ali Shaw -- this is his first novel. (Anne M.)
Lives of the Artists
Tomkins, Calvin. Lives of the Artists. 2008. (709.22 Tomki.C)
If you like going to museums and seeing contemporary art, you will find these biographies of several artists entertaining and, as many of these artists live their work-- both the good and the vain--these descriptions and anecdotes enrich your experience. (Anne M.)
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Shaffer, Mary Ann. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. 2008. (Fiction Shaff.M)
Loved this book! The characters tell the historical story in a way that invites you into their homes so you feel like you are also part of the Society. It left me wanting to learn more about this era and the island and gave me a deep appreciation for resilience. No wonder it was a best seller! (Letitia S.)
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