The Bartlett Public Library District holds a Community Book Discussion on Tuesday, May 17, at 2:00 and 7:00 pm. This featured book, which was published in 1945, is set on a Quaker farm in Indiana during the American Civil War. Paperback and large print copies of the book are available at the Information Desk. The book is considered a classic of 20th century American literature and has received stellar reviews over the years.
The Washington Post said, "West writes gracefully, occasionally poetically, in a voice both innocent and brave."
The New York Times Book Review writes, "West is an advocate of human respect, reason over emotions, and a tough, all-purpose femininity that can face and solve most situations on its own terms." Check back in May for another posting on this book.
Dawn
http://www.jessamyn.com/jessamyn/jessbio.html for biographical information about Jessamyn West
Booklist magazine calls The Raising "[A] literary page-turner reminiscent of Donna Tartt's The Secret History." I totally agree with their review. Set at a midwestern university, this is a very intelligent, very dark story that centers around the death of one student. The secrets of sorority life play a huge role as the tale unfolds. Not an easy read, but worth the time and effort needed.
I can certainly understand why Sarah's Key is one of the most-read books for discussion groups, with all of the elements of mystery, tragedy, deception, etc. Those that enjoy historical fiction will love this, as it appears to be pretty accurate. (Yes, I did look up some of the "facts".) This is the story of a young Jewish girl in France in the summer of 1942, and the horrors she endured during the Nazi occupation. It is also the story of a journalist in present day trying to find out informaton about this little girl. The novel is very well done; however, I would caution that this is a very, very depressing novel that really bothered me in many ways. Be prepared when you pick this up; it can be quite upsetting.