Review: Tiffany Girl

 

Flossie Jayne, a beautiful budding artist who is handpicked by Louis to help complete the Tiffany chapel. Though excited to be an independent New Woman at a time when most of the fair sex stayed home, she quickly finds the world is less welcoming than she anticipated. From a Casanova male to an unconventional married couple and a condescending singing master, she takes on a colorful cast of characters to transform the boarding house into a home while racing to complete the Tiffany chapel and make a name for herself in the art world. - Summary from publisher.

My Thoughts: I really loved the first half of this book; it showcases a lot of work at Tiffany. I loved those moments. The second half of the book focused more on her relationships. Not that they were bad, but that I read this book for the Tiffany parts, and I wanted more of those. Instead, the second half glossed over her work.

How it influenced me: Because of this book, I make treks to see Tiffany windows in Nantucket while there on vacation. After reading this, I appreciated the windows so much more. I mean, they are gorgeous, but reading about the section of glass heightened the experience.  

Windows of St Paul's:

Aren't they stunning?

I love it when the book world spills over into real life.

Middle Grade Review: Pearl

 

Amy is a Japanese American who lives in Hawaii. When word reaches her parents about her great-grandmother's illness, she's sent to Japan for a visit. And then Japan attacks Pearl Harbor. Amy can't go home. 

She's forced into translating radio transmissions for Japan. She's not sure what to feel; she's torn in two directions. Which should her loyalties lie? She hears rumors that all the Japanese Americans are forced to abandon their homes and live in internment camps. If that's true, why should she be loyal to that kind of government?

The most important question on her mind: Will she ever get home?

My Thoughts: This was a really great graphic novel. I felt so bad for Amy. She was caught between two worlds - two countries and two families. I can't imagine being in her shoes and deciding what to do next. What a horrible choice. This one sits with you for a bit....

I do like how this WWII story is from a different perspective. This is a great jumping off point for readers; I would want to read more about the war after reading this graphic novel.

Cover Thoughts: I like the wave.

Source: ARC sent for review

Library Recommendation: A must have book for your school and public library

For the American Side:

Graphic Novel Review: Catherine's War

Rachel discovered photography at school, and it changed her life. She hasn't heard from parents in months. She isn't sure what's happening, but the war is getting closer. Rachel is Jewish. It's no longer safe in France. 

At first, Rachel has to change her name and learn a new identity. She becomes Catherine. And then she has to leave her friends and her new home. She travels to a new place where she remembers to take pictures. Catherine doesn't let the war stop her from making friends, but she's never out of danger.

She travels to new places, always leaving a part of her behind, but always taking a piece with her in photographic evidence. 

My Thoughts: I really loved this graphic novel. It was an interesting look at WWII through a photographer's eyes. I felt so bad for Rachel and her friends. But I was also impressed by their willingness to move again and again. I'm so impressed by the people who took in these children, who gave them a good home, and who cared for them. It must have been so hard, so scary, and so devastating when you had to move again or when you were split up from those you grew to care about. So much courage in this graphic novel. This story was based on the author's mother's experience. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute

Source: my library

Library Recommendation: A must have graphic novel collection for your school and public library. 

Holiday Gift Ideas: Adult Books

This is my last list (go back and see the other ages breakouts if you missed one). Here are some adult books that would make great gifts.

Romance Books:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Women's Fiction

 

 

Fantasy:

 

 

Historical Fiction

 

Cozy Mysteries:

Thrillers:

Holiday Romances

 

 

 

 

And that's a wrap on all ages for holiday book gift ideas!