Book Thief by Markus Zusak

I have always enjoyed reading books that relate to World War II. The Book Thief shows a different side of what children and those living in Germany endured during that time. I thought the book was slow moving and repeated a lot during the beginning of the book, but as the book progressed, I found myself starting to enjoy it more and wanted to continue to read. The book tells the story of Liesel, abandoned by her mother and taken in by foster parents. As the story starts, Liesel does not know how to read and so her connection with her foster father begins as he teachers her to read. Liesel’s passion for reading and doing anything she can to keep reading is what helps her survive. The teen group, LEMMINGS, discussed this book and the majority of the group really enjoyed it and recommended it for all ages.

Then Came You by Jennifer Weiner

This is the story of several women who are all involved in the conception and eventual existence of one baby. You learn about the lives of Jules, India, Annie, and Bettina. Women who are vastly different from each other in social status and wealth, they all have their own reasons for becoming involved. One is a woman wanting a baby, one becomes an egg donor, one a surrogate mother, and one a half sister. An interesting take on a modern issue with a touching ending, I recommend this as a good read to all.

If Morning Ever Comes by Anne Tyler

Tyler's first published novel was set in the small town of Sandhill, North Carolina in the 1960's. The story is told from the perspective of Ben Joe Hawkes, who grew up in a household of eccentric women, six sisters, mother and grandmother. His father has abandoned the family...
During Ben Joe's first semester in Columbia law school, he returns home when his eldest sister has left her husband and comes home with her child. Is Ben Joe worried about his sister, or is it an excuse to escape the boredom of school? While back home, he reconnects with his high school sweetheart Shelley...
The story plot seems mundane at times compared to Tyler's later works, but she delves into the nuances of ordinary daily lives so spectacularly that I was drawn to the characters. There is also an interview with the author at the end of this paperback edition for the readers to enjoy.