more than letters on a line today

  Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet Jamie Ford 4.5 stars Jamie Ford has captured me again. This is the second book of his that I’ve read. His more recent The Many Daughters of Afong Moy (2022) was my introduction to his words and both brought the most heartwarming story to his readers. In this debut novel, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet (2009) you are led into the troubling time of the Japanese internment during the 2nd world war. This sad time when thousands of Japanese were sent to camps, were forced to build their own shelters, and lived in the most uncomfortable of conditions. What comes through prominently is the nature of the Japanese people who were affected, including those born in the USA. Their loyalty to the USA was not shaken as they endured the circumstances of their captivity. Ford tells us the facts with no judgement on the less than desirable reactions of the citizens. What the foundation of all his words is Hope. Do not miss the author’s notes where ...

Rogues Patrick Radden Keefe 4.5 stars An intriguing look at an array of con-artists and criminals and those who make a stand to expose them.  Keefe exposes in his story-telling manner someone who chose vintage wine as their tool to cheat, someone who loved money so much he would betray his mentor, and an MGM mogul who keeps the public guessing, among many other stories. This is a valuable book to see the world of rebels and cheats that we might not otherwise be aware of. It is a world that will frighten us but is explained in detail by Keefe. As a prize-winning journalist he also shows us the human side of these individuals, their past, their ex-spouses and how they live with themselves. Written in short-story chapter format, it was hard to put down and made good night time reading. This would be a good book as a gift for the socially conscious in your circle. There is a wonderful quote buried in the chapter of the Lockerbie bombing. In the philosophy of Robert Nozick - there's a d...

Big Liars Christian L. Hart and Drew A. Curtis 3.5 stars until I read the full book Pub date Aug 22, 2023   In the short (17 pg) excerpt I was provided from #NetGalley, a reader can identify the big liars in their life. It could be someone who raised you, a partner or someone who supposedly leads you at work.  It seems according to the data shared that most people lie daily. That in itself is a bit scary to me. I've always felt that there is a straightforward way to tell the truth, without bending it. As in, No, is a complete sentence; I'm not available that day; that's not the way I see it; and then make a decision to stay away from the people who you don't trust. Simple. But of course, I am not a con, a criminal or a rogue. This chapter (I was expecting a 300 pg book) offered many examples of how and why people lie. It is a fascinating look at what makes people tick, at a quick glimpse. I would appreciate the chance to read the entire book, especially if given in pape...