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Art

Small Great Gestures

by Francisco Llorca

#Smallgreatgestures #NetGalley

This book introduces children to a number of artists and their accomplishments. A few of the sections in this title are Paint a Self-Portrait, Frida Kahlo; Observe Nature, Giotto, and Protest, Guerilla Girls. The illustrations that accompany the text show the artist and the kind of work that they did. The entries are short and factual. Hopefully, young readers will read this title and then go on to learn more about their favorite artists.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.

My First Artists

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara; Lisbeth Kaiser

#Artists #NetGalley Pub Date 12 Oct 2021

This adorable book encourages children to imagine that they could be an artist like Andy Warhol, Jean Michel Basquiat, Frida Kahlo Vivienne Westwood and/or many others. For each there is a brief comment about the kind of work that they were known for. illustrations perfectly pay homage to each artist mentioned.

This book would make a good addition to a child’s library shelves. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes (Hogan)

This is author Ruth Hogan’s second novel. I was quite moved by it and plan to read her debut, The Keeper of Lost Things. She has a talent for describing characters who are fully human, quirky and both struggling and trying their best.

The novel is about two women and those they know, love and/or have lost. Masha is a mother whose child disappeared a number of years ago and, although not found, was presumed to be dead. Masha has grieved for him and has struggled to progress in her life. The reader observes as she moves forward bit by bit, fortified by new and old relationships. Part of Masha’s story takes place at the lido, a favorite locale for me after reading Libby Page’s novel. As in that novel, swimming yields some peace.

Then there is Alice. She is a mother who is overprotective and very attached to her son. Her backstory is told with compassion and the reader comes to understand her struggles and decisions.

Sally, herself, is a elderly woman whose past history becomes known late in the novel. She is eccentric and a source of some of Masha’s healing. She reminds Masha of the importance of continuing to dance, both literally and metaphorically. Other characters include Kitty who has overcome her own tragedy.

While characters in this book have experienced loss, the story is not depressing. Ruth Hogan writes empathically and I was sorry when the novel ended. There is a twist that you might see coming but, even if you know, you can enjoy reading about it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-galley. Ruth Hogan is an author to watch!

I will start by saying that I highly recommend this title which is a story of Germany in the aftermath of WWII. Set in several countries, including Britain, Germany, Italy and Switzerland, it is the story of the titular Edith Graham. As the novel opens, Miss Graham is an educator living at home with her mother, a life that she found somewhat dull and meaningless. When she is offered the opportunity to go to Germany to help with the re-establishment of educational facilities, she is really for the change and challenge. But…much more is in store for Edith.
Readers learn that, before the war,Edith was in love with a handsome, smart, German man named Kurt. Miss Graham also became close to his wife Elisabeth. What happened to this couple during WWII? How did they survive? What did they do? What happened to them afterwards? Their story line forms a large part of the narrative.
Around Edith are various agents, each with their own, and sometimes overlapping, agendas. There are Dori, Vera and Adeline for the women, each of whom has been shaped by their wartime experiences. In addition, there are the men; they represent the U.S. and the British. What are their agendas? How will these intersect with those of the women?
There is espionage here and, after a slightly slow start, a book that had me turning the pages and connecting with the characters. In addition to an excellent plot, the book raises a number of issues: what was life like for the Germans as the Americans, Russians and British entered their defeated country? How do people survive when they have nothing, not even food? Do ends justify means? Who can be trusted? Can there be justice in a world that has been turned upside down?
As readers follow the story, each chapter begins with an entry from Miss Graham’s Cold War Cookbook. Readers will learn the significance of these menus as they become involved with the novel.
I have read many books of historical fiction about WWII. This one is a bit different in that it largely takes place after the war. It is a compelling read and one that I recommend most highly. I give it five stars, something I do not often do.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this read in exchange for an honest review.

#MissGrahamsColdWarCookbook #NetGalley

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Growing Houseplants & Happiness

by Sabina Palermo

#HiCacti #NetGalley

The author of this book is such an advocate for the benefits of having houseplants. In her casual style, she includes a great deal of information for those who want to add some green to their indoor spaces. She genuinely believes that doing this will add happiness to lives. I think that she is right.

Following the introduction, readers will find photos and information on many houseplants, projects and more. For example there are the Heart-Leaf Rhododendron and the Candelabra Aloe. The plants are organized by groups. I especially liked that there was one of plants that are pet friendly.

I currently have an octet of houseplants. I loved being able to nurture something and watch it grow while I was coping with our covid world. If you would like to add some plants to your home, give this title a look. It will be worth your while.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.