Spark Book Reviews

Book Reviews

Book Reviews by the Portage District Library staff

The Christmas Bookshop

Jenny Colgan

This feel-good Christmas story follows Carmen Hogan as she fi nds herself unemployed and back in Mom and Dad’s Edinburgh home with no other choice but to a dying bookstore for the Christmas holiday. Through her work in the shop, Carmen knows and loves the customers, other shopkeepers on the street, and even her sister’s children. This book is a love letter to sisters, Edinburgh, and a celebration of joy and friendship.

Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter

Lizzie Pook

This debut historical novel by Pook follows Eliza, a pearl catcher’s daughter, in 1880s Australia. Her father has mysteriously disappeared while out at sea. Eliza knows her father is not dead despite what the townsfolk suggest and starts asking questions no one else dares. Weaving through corruption, prejudice, and blackmail, Eliza must decide how much she is willing to pay to discover the truth. Pook tells of an essential but not well-known time in British history in a gritty, lyrical, and breathtaking way. The Christmas Train

David Baldacci

Even though this book was published in 2002, we wanted to highlight it as a great holiday read. Having to get from Washington to Los Angeles in time for Christmas, journalist Tom Langdon boards a train, not knowing of the adventure he has started. He rediscovers the goodness of people and fi nds some others he’d thought he lost. This novel is packed with memorable characters and Baldacci’s excellent writing. During this season of miracles, people do get second chances.

To the Last Bite: Recipes and Ideas for Making the Most of Your Ingredients

Alexis deBoschnek

Food waste warriors are going to love this collection of recipes from deBoschnek where you’ll learn resourceful skills like infusing oils, pickling cucumbers, drying fresh herbs, and using every ingredient for what it’s worth. Learn how to make recipes like Pasta with Tomato Confi t, Celery Salad with Walnuts and Parmesan, and Spatchcock Paprika Chicken with Carrot where you’ll save the bones for stock.

...................................................................................................................................... All these titles are available at the Portage District Library. For more information about programs and services available at PDL, go to www.portagelibrary.info