Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Book Review and a New Blog

Book Review


Two nights ago, I finished reading A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by Betty Smith. I read this book because I remember my good friend, Heather Carlile, telling me that it was one of her favorites. Plus, I guess I just always thought it was one of those books you had to read.



Well, I do think it is a must read. It's a wonderful, brutal, funny, and sad book about a little girl growing up in Brooklyn in the early 20th century. Her family is poor, and instead of perpetuating the sad way of life of her family, Francie Nolan decides to make something of herself.



The ending was, I felt, written in a rush, the author trying new techniques and styles and slapping them all into the end. I also felt a little sad at the mother's moral advice to her daughter in the end, but all in all, I think this book is valuable and worth reading, if not for the storyline, at least for the opportunity to catch a glimpse at what life was like at that time.

I enjoy books about life in America at the turn of the century, the immigrant experience, or life in the lower classes. If you do too, here are some books I have read and highly recommend:

Hungry Hearts by Anzia Yezierska
Angela's Ashes and 'Tis by Frank McCourt
Maggie: A Girl Of The Streets by Stephen Crane



New Blog



I am very excited to tell you that I've been asked to be an author on a cooking blog. My friend, Madeline, started The Saltbox House Cooking Exchange a while ago and just recently decided to expand by asking some of her cooking friends to participate. I was overjoyed, since I think Madeline's blogs are just pretty freakin' awesome. Head on over there to peruse the sight, get some fantastic recipes, and check out my first posted recipe!

4 comments:

Kaylynn said...

Congrats on the new writing spot! I love that book.

Unknown said...

Sounds like a great book. I am so excited to have you on the cooking blog. By the way, I love your new header. I sent you an e-mail about that I think you should check out.

Kristy Carpenter said...

How exciting!! I can't wait to start stocking that new blog! I'm determined to cook more once I'm out of the city, so this will be perfect!!

Unknown said...

oooh i am totally checking you out on the new blog! can't wait!