This novel is quite methodical in a police drama way but it keeps you on your toes since it offers a viewpoint into life in another country. However this is definitely not an action mystery and for those not acquainted with the Chinese culture some of the events may seem slow and boring. This is the second or third book that utilizes the same set of characters. I hope to get a chance to read the other books as part of the 52 in 52 challenge.
The first half of the novel is set in modern China and offers an interesting contrast of capitalism and traditional Chinese culture. I must say that the second part of the book where the main character travels to the US was fascinating on so many levels and it’s probably due to the fact that I’m currently in a program that actively explores the roles or power, privilege and politics.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, talking dog and cats living in harmony with talking forest animals and humans. The pets owner is a human who likes to solved mysteries and either the animals are getting her out of a jam or helping her get clues. Doesn't matter, still one of my favorite series to read since I love cats and dogs. Much better and more thoughtful than the last book which I think was Puss n Cahoots?
Knit Two is the sequel to the Friday Night Knitting Club which is supposed to be made into a movie by Julia Roberts. Well, for me, this is the first clinker of 2009. I’m disappointed to say that the sequel pales in comparison to the first book. Now the first book wasn't thought provoking but the story kept moving and the characters made it interesting. The real disappoint for Knit Two is the temptation to create a happy ending out of thin air, to truly ensure that everyone only has six degrees of separation.
Quick moving account of Queen Elizabeth I early life and how each stage of her life (King’s daughter, the King’s Sister, the Queen’s sister) shaped her ascent to Queen. There’s plenty of discussion of women’s roles in life and politics. The writing is smooth and the dialogue is easy to follow.
I like Jean Plaidy’s historical romance books and Alison Weir seems to be following in Plaidy’s footsteps with a slightly more modern take on these historical figures. Lady Elizabeth ends with England hailing its new queen. I'm looking forward to reading about Queen Elizabeth and her reign.
The setting for this novel is a Chicago advertising agency towards the end of the dotcom era. My enjoyment of this book was hindered by the fact that I was able to identify almost all the characters as people I've worked with at some point in my career. Rather than absorbing the character I spent time thinking "well the real XYZ wouldn't do that". It's an interesting read maybe more so to someone who hasn't spent time in a traditional office environment. Some of the scenarios seemed strained but I have no doubt that every one could have happened for real during that time.
I slacked off my reading in 2008 so when I saw there was a Ravelry group starting up for 2009 entitled "52 books in 52 weeks" well I had to join and at least attempt to accomplish the goal.
My kickoff choice was : Knitting for Good by Betsy Greer. I thought it would be good karma to start the 2009 reading season with a book that espouses knitting with a purpose (charitable or otherwise). Greer does effectively connect knitting as a way to connect, reach, and support communities and enrich cultures. I’ve read many socially conscious materials in the past 18 months that the book may have been too much for me, an article may have been better for my current attention span for this type of topic.
Greer provides simple, interesting patterns at the end of each chapter. I know my takeaway from Knitting for Good is the thought to knit something for a stranger, as a way to enjoy my craft and to benefit my community.
