Presenting Three Books
I am an avid reader, and I enjoy most of the books I read. But then there are the truly special ones. The scenes that make me stop reading, sigh and drift away with the characters and their conflicts; the books that have vivid, daring, appealing women main characters.
I highly recommend these new books that are releasing this summer, 2021. Thanks to NetGalley, Amistad, St. Martin’s Press and Gallery Books for an advance review copy.
A memoir from a real NASA hero. You know her from the film, “Hidden figures”. What an honor to read this book.
My Remarkable Journey: A Memoir by Katherine Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
More than just a “remarkable journey”, this is the memoir of a “remarkable woman” who lived a “remarkable life.” Known in scientific circles for her advanced mathematical knowledge and her immense contributions to the NASA space program, Katherine Johnson became beloved by all of America following the release of her story in the acclaimed movie, “Hidden Figures.” Katherine tells her story in a clear and friendly style. The trajectory of her long life, paired with the history of America for better and worse, makes for a meaningful and important story. (Ms. Johnson died recently, after her memoir was published.)
Born in 1918, in West Virginia, and living much of her adult life in Virginia, Ms. Johnson experienced segregation and racist attitudes. But Katherine Johnson came from a strong family which gave her a secure foundation for her life, filled with love,, pride, confidence and an excellent education. She passed these gifts on to her own children. Family, faith, friendship a passion for mathematics and a love for NASA guided her life even when the sad history of race in America pained her.
Katharine Johnson received awards and academic accolades. Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, presented by President Barack Obama in 2015 was a profound moment for her and a proud time for all us. I am so grateful to NetGalley and Amistad for the opportunity to read the inspiring story of Katherine Johnson. This is my honest review.
Historical Fiction during an interesting time period, from lyrical author Karin Tanabe. What does it mean to be a “woman of intelligence?”
A Woman of Intelligence by Karin Tanabe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I will happily read any book by Karin Tanabe and her latest lyrical historical thriller, “A Woman of Intelligence” is another excellent, must-read book. This book features an interesting time period and well-drawn, fascinating characters.
It’s the late 1940’s and early 1950’s in America; known for the “Red Scare”, it’s an era that we may not think about much today. We see the world through the eyes of the main character, Katharina “Rina” Edgeworth. Rina represents many young women of her day. Born in New York City of immigrant parents, she learned multiple languages and was Ivy League educated.
New York is an exuberant place to be after World War II. Hope and delight abound, and Rina drinks it all in. She works for the newly created United nations as an interpreter, and in the evening, she plays in the “playgrounds” of Manhattan.
But Rina is not just a party girl. She is committed to helping the world come together after the War and she takes pride in her work at the U.N. Marriage does not call to her until she meets and falls in love with a dedicated doctor from a wealthy upper-crust family, Tom Edgeworth. Rina happily marries him, and marriage leads to children, and children lead to a major change in her life.
Is she in a gilded cage? Yes, if she lets herself be. A chance opportunity leads her to work covertly for the FBI. The FBI is investigating Communist groups and Soviet infiltrators. She thrives in her new secret life. Will she leave her privileged captivity? Is her husband Tom more a captive than she is?
Although Rina, with her spirit, intelligence, passion is a wonderfully complex and fascinating character, New York City also shines in a lead role. I enjoyed this book because of the fascinating characters, the exciting story line and the reflections on a woman’s life. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance review copy. This is my honest review
Part folktale, part riveting action, and always compelling…a young woman meets her destiny during World War II.
The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Reviews for “The Forest of Vanishing Stars” by Kristin Harmel are universally 5 stars. I agree- this was a creative, lyrical and profound book that I will always remember.
With an aura of a fairytale or folktale, filled with gritty characters and experiences, this book will haunt you with its beauty and wisdom. “Once up on a time” there was a mysterious young woman who lived in the forest and spoke to nature and nature spoke back to her. Yona is the main character and she lived in the isolated forest in Poland, with an old crone from age two until the start of World War II. The crone has prepared her with many skills, from how to build a shelter, survive on the flora and fauna, even how to kill a man. But why has the crone taken her and educated her? When the war begins, Yona meets her destiny.
World War II is shown through the eyes of Yona, who knows nothing of politics or governments. But she does know the beauty of the first spring, day, snow falling from stars, and the need to love and connect with others. She becomes a guide for Jews escaping into the forest.
Finding one’s purpose, through the filter of love, caring and honesty is the heart of this historical fiction book. I commend the author for creating a story that is filled with the details of a life in the woods, the hearts of people, and the source of it all.
Thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
About the Author
