Book #1: Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay
Sad, a bit predictable, interesting (and depressing) account of a true event in history where all of the Jews in Paris were arrested, deported, then sent to Auschwitz. At the same time the story has a modern perspective where an American journalist who is married to a Frenchman finds out that "Sarah" lived in the apartment that her husband's family has owned for years.
The "key" is an interesting symbol in the story.
Book #2: Sweet Life by Mia King.
A New York family is transferred to the island of Hawaii. The main character, Marissa, stays at home for the first time with her eight-year-old daughter (who later wants to be home schooled -- a strange twist). Once they move and purchase a "fixer upper" Marissa's husband decides to take a break from their marriage. Predictable and slightly annoying characters. I can't figure out why I kept reading this book. Come on, they live in Hawaii . . .
Book #3: While My Sister Sleeps by Barbara Delinsky
Another book where depressing seems to be the main theme. Robin Snow is a 30-year-old marathon runner who is training for the Olympics. Her younger sister, Molly, is resentful of the time and devotion that Molly and the whole family have to Robin's dream -- especially their mother. One day while Robin is running she suffers a massive heart attack and is in a coma (this happens on page 3 of the book). The family can't decide how to say goodbye to Robin and her Olympic dream. There is a lot about the relationships in this family and the bizarre (and again depressing) family dynamics. The title is ironic because the "sister" is not sleeping, she is brain dead and machines are breathing for her. Sleeping? I don't think so.
Note to self: Select a book that is more uplifting for Book #4. Don't be misled by a pretty cover. Read something that has some substance, please.
