Solstice Wood by Patricia A. McKillip, Ace Books, 2006

Bookstore owner Sylvia Lynn is content with her current life and has cut the ties to her past. However, her grandfather's passing forces Sylvia to return to her childhood home, which lies on the border of a fantasy otherworld, and face head-on the forces she has been running from.

When this book was set in the "real" world I found it enjoyable but the fantasy aspects of changelings, fairies, witches and wood nymphs often confused and bored me. McKillip is a well respected writer and fantasy fans will likely receive this book in a better light.

Readers who enjoy this book may also like these fiction titles: Broken Sword by Paul Anderson, Ballantine Books, 1971 is a classic fantasy work that also features a changeling from a land of fairies. Children of Magic, DAW Books, 2006 is a collection of fantasy stories written by well-respected fantasy authors and regarding children with a variety of magical powers.

Readers who enjoy this book may also like these non-fiction titles: The Complete Guide to Faeries and Magical Beings: Explore the Mystical Realm of the Little People by Cassandra Eason, Red Wheel, 2002. This book includes testimonials from people who have claimed to see magical creatures and even includes tips on how to attract them. Spellbound: from Ancient Gods to Modern Merlins: a Time Tour of Myth and Magic by Alexander Dominic, Readers Digest, 2002 takes a historical look at the interweaved relationships of science, religion and magic.

Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman, Morrow, 2005

This tells the story of Fat Charlie (who isn't fat anymore) and how his life changes after his father dies-a father who long ago left him and always embarrased him. Fat Charlie learns that he has a "brother", who wreaks havoc on Charlie's dull life, and that his father was actually Anansi, the trickster spider god. This story alternates between London and Florida, proving that quirky, humorous, and well-written characters can be found on both sides of the pond.

I was pleasantly surprised at the contemporary setting and absence of too many fantastical creatures. This book was also funny, captured my attention, and even throws in a scene reminiscent of the serial killer from Silence of the Lambs. I would be open to reading more by Neil Gaiman.

Readers who enjoy this book may also enjoy these fiction titles: Divine by Blood by P.C. Cast, Luna, 2007 is the story of a girl who is raised "normally" in Oklahoma,only to discover that she is actually the daughter of a goddess from an otherworld. The Dark Half by Stephen King, Viking, 1989 leans a bit more toward horror, but King's writing generally contains fantastic elements. The parallels of "good twin not knowing bad twin exists" and WHY are eerily similar.

Readers who enjoy this book may also enjoy these non-fiction titles: Anansi, the Spider Man: Jamaican Folk Tales by Philip Manderson Sherlock, Crowell, 1954 should expand on the trickster tales touched on by Gaiman. Secret London: Exploring the Hidden City, with Original Walks and Unusual Places to Visit by Andrew Duncan, Interlink Books, 2006 is filled with tidbits about the London most people never see and the physical "secrets" that exist.

F5: Devastation, Survival, and the Most Violent Tornado Outbreak of the Twentieth Century by Mark Levine, Hyperion, 2007

On April 3, 1974 the forces of nature combined to produce 148 tornadoes in 13 states that altered the landscapes and lives of those in their paths. Author Mark Levine attempts to parallel the deadly storms with the political and social unrest of the time, and also educates readers on the natural forces behind tornadoes and the scientific advances designed to rank and track such storms. This book is most successful when it concentrates of the lives of the victims, and provides a satisfactory look at where these major characters are today and how that one day affected the rest of their lives.

I found this book enjoyable and somewhat educational but felt the author missed the mark with his tornado vs. the 70's analogy.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Sing them Home by Stephanie Kallos, Grove, 2009. Siblings vs. nature; mom is taken by a tornado and Dad by a lightning strike 25 years later. This novel focuses on the devestating effects of natural disasters on a small town and the siblings struggles with both grief and the changes brought on by their losses. Heavy Weather by Bruce Sterling, Bantam, 1994 is a futuristic thriller about storm chasers pursuing a potential F6 with the potential to destroy the world.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Storm Warning: the Story of a Killer Tornado by Nancy Mathis, Simon & Schuster, 2007 which relates the killer F5 tornado that devestated parts of Oklahoma in May of 1999.
Devastation! The World's Worst Natural Disasters by Lesley Newson, Dorling Kindersley, 1998 offers dates, details, illustrations, and explanations of more than 500 historical natural disasters.

Izzy & Lenore: Two Dogs, an Unexpected Journey, and Me by Jon Katz, Villard, 2008

Writer, photographer, and farm owner Jon Katz has written a delightful tale that chronicles his two newest dogs, Izzy, an abandoned border collie, and Lenore, a black lab puppy. Jon and Izzy become an admired pair of hospice volunteers due to Izzy's uncanny gift to calm, soothe, and in one case, heal patients. Lenore evolves into a treasured companion who helps Jon with his own personal healing from depression. Although the book contains a disclaimer that "no dogs die in this book" even the most steadfast reader may shed a tear or two while reading about the hospice patients. Katz skillfully and subtly emphasizes the wondrous healing capabilities of dogs on the soul.

This book instantly appealed to me on a personal level as I have a dog named Izzy and used to own a border collie. I found this book extremely enjoyable and well written and look forward to reading more of Katz.

Readers who enjoyed this book may like these fiction titles: Dog: a Novella by Michelle Herman, MacAdam/Cage, 2005 which features Jill,an unhappy and lonely woman that adopts a puppy who guards its own emotions. Once they connect,mutual healing is quick to follow. The New Yorkers by Cathleen Schine, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2007 reinforces the fact that dogs improve owners lives, in this case helping them to make friends and even to fall in love.

Readers who enjoyed this book may like these non-fiction titles: James Herriot's Dog Stories by James Herriot, St. Martin's Press, 1986. I have long viewed Herriott as the original and authoritative writer of animal stories and this book shares stories about 50 dogs and their relationships with their owners. A Puppy is Better than Prozac: the True Story of a Man and the Dog who Saved his Life by Bruce Goldstein, DaCapo, 2008. Goldstein shares certain traits with Jon Katz; depression, a black lab puppy with the power to heal, and a gift for writing a moving story.

The Outsider by Ann H. Gabhart, Revell, 2008

Gabrielle was happy living her life in a Shaker community and was steadfast in her faith until an accident brought an outsider, a handsome doctor, into her life. Her interaction with the doctor, as well as a series of events that occur within the Shaker community, result in Gabrielle having doubts as to which type of life she was really meant to live.

The insights into the now extinct Shaker faith and War of 1812 references may appeal to fans of historical fiction. This book may also attract the attention of readers drawn to gentle romances. I was alternately bored and shocked by this book and while unlikely to visit this genre again, I am now interested in learning more about the War of 1812.

Readers who like this book may also like these fiction titles: Walk by Faith by Roseanne Bittner, Steeple Hill, 2008 also is set in the 1800's and incorporates new beginnings, dangerous situations, historical themes, and romance. The Believers by Janice Holt Giles, Houghton, 1957 offers an insight into the Shaker religion by a young woman who follows her husband to a Shaker community in Kentucky in the 1800's but is forced to leave upon failing to become a believer.

Readers who like this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Union 1812: The Americans who Fought the Second War of Independence by A.J. Langguth, Simon & Schuster, 2007 is a comprehensive overview that serves perfectly as a brush-up for that information we may have forgotten since history class. God Among the Shakers: a Search for Stillness and Faith and Sabbathday Lake by Suzanne Skees, Hyperion, 1999. Author Skees spent a month at the last surviving Shaker community, which is located in Maine, and shares her observations here.

One Tuesday Morning by Karen Kingsbury, Zondervan, 2003

On September 11, 2001, Jake Bryan and Eric Michaels both entered the World Trade Center, but only one of them made it out alive. On the surface, both men seem to have a lot in common. Both have wives that love them, a young child, and even look eerily alike. However, Jake is a NYC firefighter following in his father's footsteps, and is as devoted to God as he is to his family. Eric is a workoholic who has left God and his family by the wayside in a misguided attempt to provide them with what he thinks they really need, wealth. In a case of mistaken identity complicated by amnesia, Eric is believed to be Jake and assumes Jake's role as father to Sierra and husband to Jamie, who lost her faith as a teenager. In reading Jake's diaries, Eric regains his faith, as does Jamie. This realization that God and religion are necessary and good comes in handy for the ultimate reality that Jake has perished and Eric has survived.

One Tuesday Morning is a quick and not an unpleasant read. However, the writing is shoddy, lackluster, and often sappy. Descriptions of the events of 9/11 seem to be quick, plagarized summaries of true accounts and in no way come off as a tribute to all that lost their lives that day. Kingsbury should be applauded for writing a novel that incorporates God and stays far away from gratuitous sex and foul language. However, if she is indeed the author of 30 bestselling books as the cover states, it seems the Christian Fiction genre is ripe for an influx of any truly talented writers.

Readers who enjoy this book may also like these fiction titles: Good Hope Road by Lisa Wingate, NAL, 2003. In this work, a tornado is the tragedy that brings strangers together to mutually search for hope. The Writing on the Wall: a Novel by Lynne Sharon Schwartz, Counterpoint, 2005 addresses the emotional trauma, survivor's guilt, and the effects 9/11 on a woman already dealing with personal tragedies.

Readers who enjoy this book may also like these non-fiction titles: The Book of Mychal: The Surprising Life and Heroic Death of Father Mychal Judge by Michael Daly, St. Martins, 2002 details the personal struggles and triumphs of a remarkable man, and beloved Chaplain, who was unfortunately the first recorded casualty of 9/11. Mistaken Identity: Two Families, One Survivor, Unwavering Hope by Don & Susie VanRyn and Colleen & Whitney Cerak, Howard Books, 2008 tells of the 2006 car accident where one college friend dies and the other survives. However, when Laura VanRyn comes to, it is discovered that she is actually Whitney Cerak, formerly believed deceased. The strong faith of the two families is apparent in this work.

Life Among the Dead by Lisa Williams, Simon Spotlight Entertainment, 2008

Lisa Williams sees dead people. A medium and clairvoyant, Lisa became aware of her gift at the age of four, and believes she inherited it from her grandmother, a respected psychic of her own time. After years of unfulfilling jobs and disappointing relationships (one which resulted in her becoming a single mom), the author finds her true love and her true calling as a professional seer, thanks in part to Merv Griffin, Hollywood, and the Lifetime channel. This is an interesting read about a likeable woman. Filled with instance after instance of her eerily correct visions, after reading this book, even skeptics may find themselves believers.

Psychic abilities have always fascinated me, and I do believe that certain people have the gift of ESP, including Lisa Williams. Althought the book is not a literary giant, it was an enjoyable and informative way to spend a few hours.

Readers who like this book may also like these fiction titles: After Life by Rhian Ellis, Viking, 2000 revolves around a mother and daughter, both with psychic abilities. The mother uses her talents as showmanship and to make money, but the daughter tries to come to grips with how to best use the gift she has. Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz, Bantam, 2006 introduces readers to a fry cook with the ability to communicate with dead people in this novel that alternates humor with darkness.

Readers who like this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Uri Geller: My Story by Uri Geller, Henry Holt & Co., 1975. Uri Geller was one of the earlier psychics to gain worldwide renown and did so in an age where special effects weren't truly a consideration, adding credibility to his abilities. Psychic Connections by Lois Duncan, Delacorte, 1995. Lois Duncan wrote numerous books for young adults, and this is also aimed at that level. However, it provides a nice overview of what parapsychology really is. Additionally, although Duncan often incorporated extrasensory aspects in her novels, she was a skeptic until her daughter was murdered and the case was aided by psychics.

Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs, St. Martin's Press, 2002

Running with Scissors tells a tragic tale of dysfunction and child abuse on more levels than one human being should ever endure. Born to an uncaring alcoholic father and a mentally unstable mother, author Augusten Burroughs relates his life as a child and teenager. Although his mother did seek pyschological treatment, she unfortunately chooses to be seen by Dr. Finch, a certifiable lunatic in his own right. Young Augusten is left in the care of the doctor and his menagerie of quirky, and sometimes criminal, family and various patients. This memoir almost comes across as humorous at times, until one remembers that the incidents are based on fact. Illegal drug use, lack of morals and ethics, pedophilia, and homosexual incidents portrayed in this book may not appeal to some readers.

Burroughs writing style and lack of self-pity appealed to me and I would be open to reading more works by this author.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: White Oleander by Janet Fitch, Little Brown, 1999. After her mother is sent to jail for murdering her lover, Astrid survives a string of less than ideal foster home situations. Dramatic rather than humorous; a powerful story. The Hotel New Hampshire by John Irving, Dutton, 1981. Irving is always a masterful writer, and certain contents of this book would be even more disturbing had they been factual.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls, Scribner, 2006. Another well written and engrossing tale from a survivor of a highly-dysfunctional family. Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel, Mariner, 2008. Written in a graphic novel format, Bechdel tells her own tale of dealing with the skeletons in her family's closets.

It by Stephen King, Viking, 1986

There is a monster loose in Derry, Maine in 1958 that is targeting children. A group of stereotypical loser kids (a stutterer, an obese boy, an asthmatic mama's boy, etc.) become friends, eventually defeat "It", and then drift away from each other and Derry. 27 years later "It" unwakens and begins another reign of terror, which has erupted in cycles since the beginning of time. The loser kids are grown up and are all unequaled successes in their careers (with the exception of Mike, who stayed in Derry-he's a librarian) and have no recollection of their previous encounter with the monster until they return to Derry to fight "It" again-and to fight their personal demons.

Like most of King's books, the character development is phenomenal, the storylines interweave seamlessly, and I as a reader couldn't wait to see what happened next. AND-it's really scary!

Readers who enjoy this book may also like these fiction titles: Revelation by Bentley Little, Signet, 1999 fits the bill for the reader looking for more terror, horror, and ancient evil. Summer of Nights by Dan Simmons, Putnam, 1991 won the Locus Award in 1992 for this tale that sounds extremely similar to It including a timeless monster that's devouring children, adults that don't seem to notice, and children deciding that ending the terror lies in their own hands.

Readers who enjoy this book may also like these non-fiction titles: On Writing: a Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King, Scribner, 2000 offers insight from King on how he got his often twisted ideas and follows his long road to success. Killer Clown: The John Wayne Gacy Murders by Terry Sullivan, Pinnacle Books, 1991 offers a glimpse into the life of a human monster and the horrifying facts of a real life serial murder case (spoiler alert: the monster in It sometimes appears as a clown).

Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin, Random House, 1967

Rosemary and Guy Woodhouse are thrilled when they learn an apartment is available to rent at the famed Bramford in New York City. Despite warnings of the Bramford's rumored history of witchcraft and unexplained deaths, the young couple happily moves in. Guy pursues his fledgling acting career while Rosemary plays homemaker and yearns for a child, eventually becoming pregnant. The couple befriends the seemingly harmless elderly neighbors but as time goes on, Rosemary becomes suspicious of not only them, but also of Guy, as strange things occur regarding her and her unborn child.

Despite being written more than 40 years ago, the story remains a thriller although it does date itself a bit by its many references to fads and show business as it was in the late 60's. Regardless, Rosemary's Baby is a suspensful tale with a shocking ending that begs the question "What price fame?".

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Servents of Twilight by Dean Koontz, Berkley, 1990 is a thriller about a mother trying to shield her young son from murder after he is labeled the antichrist by a fanatical religious group. The Omen by David Selzer, Signet, 2006 (reissue) terrified both a nation of readers and movie-goers in 1976 with this story of a boy named Damien who's destiny is to fulfill the most horrible prophecy ever made--to become the antichrist.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Lucifer Rising: A Book of Sin, Devil Worship, and Rock 'n Roll by Gavin Baddeley, Plexus, 2006 draws parallels between satanism and heavy metal rock as well as including a detailed history of the practice. The Secret Life of a Satanist: The Authorized Biography of Anton LaVey by Blanche Barton, Feral House, 1992 offers a glimpse into the life of a satanist with this biographical account of the founder of the Church of Satan.

Going Postal by Terry Pratchett, Harper Collins, 2004

Moist von Lipwig, aka Alfred Spangler, is a con man condemned to hang for his crimes. While Alfred is executed, Lord Vetinari, leader of Ankh-Morpork, spares Moist's life with one condition-that he becomes the Postmaster General. A hilarious ride ensues, rife with golems, dysfunctional postal employees, gargoyles, dwarves, and a threat from the big business honchos in charge of the clackers, which view delivering the mail as a direct threat to their current monopoly on sending messages. Likeable characters, skillful writing, and an often warped yet genuinely funny sense of humor make this book a must read for the science fiction reader leaning towards the lighter side of science.

This is the book that made me realize that maybe I do like science fiction and fantasy after all. I'm grateful Pratchett is a prolific writer and look forward to reading more of his Discworld series.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, Harmony Books, 2004 (reissue-25th anniversary edition)rewards readers with plenty of humor, parody, and satire in this tale of Arthur Dent, who is saved from the destruction of Earth in order to travel the galaxy using clues from the travel guide "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy". Practical Demonkeeping: A Comedy of Horrors by Christopher Moore, St. Martin's Press, 1992 is also a humorous story about another character who makes a questionable deal-in this case, receiving eternal youth but in return being required to care for a demon.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: The Turtle Moves! Discworld's Story Unauthorized by Lawrence Watt-Evans, Benbella, 2008 is a companion guidebook written in essay form to expand and expound on the 30+ volume Discworld series. Con Men: Fascinating Profiles of Swindlers and Rogues from the Files fo the Most Successful Broadcast in Television History Simon & Schuster, 2003 is presented by the staff of 60 Minutes and encompasses their investigative reports over the years featuring swindlers, crooks, and cheats.

Foundation by Isaac Asimov, Bantam, 1991 (reissue)

Psychohistorian Hari Seldon is preparing for the future-a bleak future marked by 30,000 years of warfare. Seldon assembles the brightest and greatest minds to create an Encyclopedia that will preserve knowledge after the inevitable fall of the current civilization.

This is what I would classify as "hard" or "serious" science fiction. I needed to research the story after reading it to understand what I had read. For science fiction buffs, Asimov rates as a god but I'd be reluctant to read this brand of science fiction again.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also enjoy The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury, Doubleday, 1958. The tranquility of Mars is disrupted by Earthlings determined to conquer space, colonize the planet, and escape a doomed Earth. Similar to Foundation, this books is also a combination of short stories spun into one larger whole. Psychohistorical Crisis by Donald Kingsbury, TOR, 2002 is based on an article by Asimov that explains his basis for Foundation and also includes elements of that story such as power and war addicts, and male dominance.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also enjoy these non-fiction titles: A Scientific Model of History: Where is the Future Leading Us? by Juan Jose Gomez-Ibarra, Author House, 2003 explains why civilizations decay, wars recur, and other historical cycles and also addresses the limits of social organization. Voyage to the Milky Way by Donald Goldsmith, TV Books, 1999. Although nearly 10 years old, rather than being outdated, this volume is science fiction-like in its predictions (including one for 2008)and includes coverage on space colonization.

The Chosen by Chaim Potok, Simon & Schuster, 1967

Set at the end of World War II, The Chosen tells the story of Danny and Reuven, teenagers who meet following a freak accident at a baseball game between their two opposing teams. Both boys are the same age, live near each other, and have never met because while they are both Jewish, they are radically different. Danny, a genius, is recluctant to follow his predisposed life purpose of succeeding his tyrannical father as the leader of their extreme Hasidic Jewish sect. Reuven, while still a dedicated Jew, has experienced a much different upbringing with his own father, a gentle scholar and rabbi, whose footsteps he plans to follow. As the horrors of the Holocaust are revealed, the reactions of the opposing Jewish camps threaten the existence of the boys' friendship, but they ultimately come to terms with their own faith and beliefs, as well as an acceptance and understanding of the other's.

Potok has crafted an intriguing insight to the Jewish religion and the passion that accompanies unwavering beliefs. Strong character development and skillful writing have helped this story seem timeless and relevant despite being first published more than 40 years ago. This is one novel I wouldn't have minded reading in my high school or college English classes.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Septembers of Shiraz: a Novel by Dalia Sofer, Harper Perennial, 2008 hones in on the Jewish persecution of a religious family living in Iraq. In turn, their non-religious son living in New York falls for the pious daughter of his Hasidic landlord. Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev, Heritage Reprints, 1943 (reissue). This literary fiction classic skillfully describes the growing divide between two generations of Russians.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: My Jesus Year: A Rabbi's Son Wanders the Bible Belt in Search of his own Faith by Benyamin Cohen, HarperOne, 2008. Cohen, raised as an Orthodox Jew, had a crisis of faith that led him to visit a myriad of denominational churches before finding his way back to his religious origins. My Father's Paradise: A Son's Search for his Jewish Past in Kurdish Iraq by Ariel Sabar, Algonquin Books, 2008. The author grew up never understanding his own father. When he himself has a son, he finds himself trying to understand his father and embarks on a personal journey to achieve this goal.

Rurouni Kenshin Volume 1: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story by Nobuhiro Watsuki, VIZ, 2003

Wonderfully illustrated and teeming with historical significance, Rurouni Kenshin tells the tale of Himura Kenshin (rurouni means "wanderer"), a Meiji swordsmen of legendary status who was once an assassin, or "hitokiri" protecting the empire. Kenshin joins up early in the story with Kaoru, and helps her secure her late father's dojo (martial arts training hall) that is under attack from a gang of men wishing to forcefully take it from her. Mid-story, the pair rescues Yahiko and make the scrappy orphan the first, if not reluctant, student of Kaoru's dojo.

The author intersperses a few narratives throughout the book to explain the evolution of certain characters and a glossary and reading diagram also help ease novice readers into the manga format. With 28 total volumes in the series, fans of this title are provided with ample further reading.

While I would still not consider myself a fan of manga, I have a new respect for the genre. These are not easy "comic books", but instead are often beautiful works of art that are somewhat difficult, at least for a novice, to get the hang of reading.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Snow Fox by Susan Fromberg Schaeffer, W.W. Norton, 2004 is set in medieval Japan and centers on a love story between a poet and a samurai. This title also includes rich cultural details and some realistic violence. The entire Fruits Basket series, by Natsuka Tayaki, Tokyopop, 2004- is my second recommendation and is largely based on the insane popularity this manga series enjoys. The storyline here is that the Sohma family members are possessed by the spirits of the Chinese Zodiac, which they turn into when they are hugged. The link here may be a little weak, but I do believe that if you like manga, you will enjoy both of these series.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Emperor of Japan: Meiji and his World, 1852-1912 by Donald Keene, Columbia, 2005. Although this is rather scholarly, and long, this work is glowingly praised for presenting a completely comprehensive history of the emergence of modern Japan. Japanese Sword Fighting: Secrets of the Samurai by Masaki Hatsumi, Kodansha International, 2006 is both informative and aesthetic, with it's strong historical facts and coverage of legendary figures as well as its elaborate illustrations, including calligraphy drawings from the masters of the craft.

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1970

Eleven year old Pecola Breedlove is an African American girl barely existing at a time when only blond haired, blue eyed children are seen as beautiful. Her father, Cholly, is haunted by the demons of his past, and the abusive home Pecola is raised in leaves her little chance of thriving, much less survival. Pecola wishes for blue eyes, believing that trait alone will make herself, and the world, beautiful.

The narrative voice of the story changes throughout the book, offering various insights and angles to Pecola's tortured life. The author also does not follow a traditonal "start to end" format of storytelling, but instead, chapters often appear out of order, when in reality, they skillfully combine to craft this powerful story.

Oprah finally got one right. This is an important story that made a lasting impression on me.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Color Purple by Alice Walker, Harcourt Brace, 1982 is equally effective in highlighting the low position of black females in American social culture, even amongst fellow African Americans. Conception by Kalisha Buckhanon, St. Martin's Press, 2009 is a direct recommendation from Booklist and is a modern tale of urban black girls following a vicious cycle of falling for the wrong man, having their children, and falling into poverty and despair.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, Random House, 1970. Angelou uses her autobiography to illustrate the ways in which she utilized her strong character and love of literature to overcome racism and trauma. Somebody's Someone by Regina Louise, Agate Bolden, 2008 recounts the author's dream to be wanted and respected, rather than the neglected and abused child she really was.

True Story Swear to God: Chances Are by Tom Beland, AIT, 2003

As the title professes, this graphic novel is the true story of how the author, Tom Beland, met the love of his life, Lily Garcia, while waiting for a bus in Disney World. Tom, a journalist and aspiring cartoonist from Napa, and Lily, a radio personality from Puerto Rico, are both there to cover the opening of the Animal Kingdom theme park and after they meet, spend one incredible evening together. The connection is so immediate and strong, that upon returning to their prospective homes, a long distance relationship ensues. The story ends with Tom wondering if his real home is his beloved Napa, or if home is where his heart is.

With minor sexual situations and the overall subject matter, this is a graphic novel for adults or mature teens. The illustrated format adds depth to the story. This is a beautifully written, introspective, and romantic story that should leave readers feeling hopeful, inspired, and perhaps even a little jealous.

This was my first experience reading a graphic novel. I couldn't put it down and placed his sequel on hold for myself the next day.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Which Brings Me to You: a Novel in Confessions by Steve Almond, Algonquin Books, 2006. A chance meeting between two strangers at a wedding results in a long distance relationships of friendship growing into love as the two main characters get to know each other by writing letters detailing how they failed in their past relationships. The Trial of True Love by William Nicholson, Doubleday, 2005. Bachelor Bron is a writer who's working on a new book about true love when he himself unexpectedly finds love.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: David Chelsea in Love by David Chelsea, Reed Graphica, 2003 is an autobiographical graphic novel with a long distance romance theme. However, its mature content and depictions are strictly for adults. Janet and Me: an Illustrated Story of Love and Loss by Stanley Mack, Simon & Schuster, 2004. A cross of narrations and comics, this book tells the story of Mack, a cartoonist, and his relationship with young adult author Janet Bode. They too experienced an unexpected first meeting and love and spent 18 years together before cancer claimed Bode's life.

Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner, Washington Square Press, 2001

Cannie Shapiro has just been outed in a national magazine as a "larger woman" by her ex-boyfriend. After the urge to kill has passed, Cannie is forced to evaluate her life,come to terms with her dysfunctional family, and take charge of her future-which is about to involve becoming a single mother. This is a realistic and contemporary romance that is laugh-out-loud funny in many parts and heartbreaking in others.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Conversations with the Fat Girl by Liza Palmer, 5 Spot, 2005 features Maggie, who is the plus-size heroine of this light romance focusing on self-acceptance. Watermelon: a Novel by Marian Keyes, Perennial, 2002. After her husband leaves her the day their baby is born, Claire retreats to her childhood home in Dublin and gradually begins to discover who she really is.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Labyrinth of Desire: Women, Passion, and Romantic Obsession by Rosemary Sullivan, Counterpoint, 2003 attempts to show why intelligent women fall in love with the wrong man. It's Called a Breakup because its Broken: the Smart Girl's Breakup Buddy by Greg Behrendt, Broadway, 2006 is a light self-help book showcasing how women can permanently end bad relationships and find a brighter romantic future.

The Sleeping Beauty Proposal by Sarah Strohmeyer, Dutton, 2007

When her longtime boyfriend Hugh proposes on national television to an anonymous female, 36 year old Genie panics and lets her family, friends, and co-workers believe that she was the target of the proposal and starts living a double life of her own. Under the guise of a bride-to-be, Genie blossoms, gaining the self-confidence to move in the right direction regarding her career, housing situation, and even her love life.

This is classic chick lit, light and fluffy, but oh, so fun to read. Despite being lightweight, Strohmeyer weaves an enjoyable tale interspersed with characters that readers should be able to identify and empathize with.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: A Mile in My Flip-Flops by Melody Carlson, Waterbrook Press, 2008. Another light and fun read about a young woman who embarks on an enterprise as a house flipper after being dumped. Daring Chloe by Laura Jensen Walker, Zondervan, 2008. When cautious Chloe's fiance backs out the day before the wedding her girlfriends convince her to take the honeymoon anyways--with them. This jump starts Chloe's transformation from a girl afraid to take risks into a girl who is willing to risk anything, including her heart again.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Why there are no Good Men Left: the Romantic Plight of the New Single Woman by Barbara Dafoe Whitehead, Broadway, 2003. Whitehead explains why independent, professional, and highly-independent women find it so difficult to find the perfect mate. Five Men who Broke my Heart: a Memoir by Susan Shapiro, Delacorte, 2004. Although happily married, author Shapiro was in a mid-life funk as she approached her 40th birthday, resulting in her embarkment on a humorous journey to track down her former boyfriends.

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb, Berkley Books, 1995

This first offering in Robb's long running "In Death" series introduces us to Detective Eve Dalls, a New York City police homicide detective in the year 2058. A senator's granddaughter who works as a prostitute is found murdered and is just the first of several employees in this now legalized profession to meet the same fate. The main suspect in the case, Roark, also doubles as Eve's love interest. Furthermore, political corruptions is still running rampant in the 21st century.

This is a fast paced and slightly steamy thriller. The futuristic aspect was not apparent upon beginning the book and resulted in some initial confusion on my part. While this is not among the best books or best mysteries I've ever read, it was enjoyable enough that I would be open to continuing on with this still running series.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Darker Side by Cody McFadyen, Bantam, 2008 also features a female detective investigating the murder of a senator's family member. However, this police procedural thriller is a bit darker and contains quite a bit more violence. Amaryllis by Jayne Castle, Pocket Books, 1998 is lighter and more humorous but also involves a female detective pursuing a case and a futuristic romance.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Portrait of a Killer: Jack the Ripper--Case Closed by Patricia Cornwell, Putnam, 2002. Cornwell,popular author of the fictional Kay Scarpetta mystery series, tackles this expose on the famous real life serial killer who targeted prostitutes. Detective: the Inspirational Story of the Trailblazing Woman Cop who wouldn't Quit by Kathy Burke, Scribner, 2008. Burke's autobiographical account shares the details of her career that led her to become the most highly decorated female detective in New York City's police department.

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich, Scribner, 1994

Heroine Stephanie Plum is out of work and her car has just been repossessed. She convinces her cousin Vinny, by way of a blackmail threat, to hire her as a bounty hunter. Stephanie's first assignment will net her $10,000 if she can bring in Joe Morelli, a cop on the run. While growing up together, Joe took Stephanie's virginity and she reciprocated by running him over with a Buick. With well developed characters, witty dialogues, plenty of action, and just a hint at romance, this novel hooks the reader and leaves them wanting more, which is achieved through the 13 sequels to date.

I found this book enjoyable enough that I would like to read more in the series. However, while it was humorous, I did not find it as wildly funny as other readers have mentioned.

Readers may also enjoy these fiction books: Florida Roadkill by Tim Dorsey, Warner, 1999 for its clever characters, suspense, and wild humor. Cha Cha Cha by Jane Heller, Kensington Books, 1994 features a female main character who finds herself working at a previously unthinkable job and also in the unlikely position of having to solve a crime. Heller consistently provides readers with humorous books featuring likeable and identifiable female leads.

Readers may also enjoy these non-fiction books: The Huntress: The True Saga of Dottie and Brandi Thorson, Modern-Day Bounty Hunters by Christopher Keane, Forge Books, 2000 which tells the tale of a wife and daughter who take over the family business when their husband/father bounty hunter is murdered. You Can Run But You Can't Hide by Duane Chapman,Orion Books, 2007 details the past life and current occupation of "Dog the Bounty Hunter", who also has a popular show on A&E.