The Overton Window

Rachel Durazzani says:


A pretty good read. I have to admit it wasn't as much of a thriller as I expected. I wasn't exactly on the edge of my seat as I had anticipated. However, the research behind the book was amazing. I am so impressed with all the work that went into writing the book (whether the work ALL was done by Beck or not, he was involved). I loved the many references to the founding fathers, and the quotes that were used, and how Beck wove them into the storyline. I love the concept of the Overton Window and that the book itself (as stated in the afterword) is an Overton Window. And although the story is a little farfetched, it did make me think about my role as a citizen of the United States and where we are headed and what I want to do about where we are headed. I also liked that it was not party politics as usual. No one party is to blame and no one party is completely innocent.


Thank you, Rachel! You write great reviews. --The Fiction Fairy

Half Magic

This book was one of my favorite chapter books growing up. I think I checked it out almost every time I went to the library. I have been on the hunt for it for YEARS, but could not remember the title. While browsing through books on the internet last week, I found it again!!! I immediately ordered it off of eBay, and have been loving reading it again. It is clever and fun, even for older audiences. It is the story of four children who come across a magic coin which allows them to make wishes. However, the coin comes with a catch--it only grants HALF of your wish. Thus, if you want your entire wish to come true, you must figure out a way to wish for double of what you want. Depending on your wish, this can become quite complicated. It's a great adventure story, suitable for all audiences. Check it out--it is outstanding!

Born to Run

Rachel Durazzani says:


Awesome! Seriously, awesome. And so inspiring. If you've ever been interested in running or have ever run or have ever considered running, I would recommend this book. This book is responsible for some of the barefoot running trend. But even if you're not ready for that, you should still read the book. It's a nonfiction/documentary that reads like a story. I actually listened to it while training for my 1/2 marathon, and loved every minute of it...sometimes running longer so I could keep listening.

The language, surprisingly, is a bit rough. Not horrible, but just a general warning. Now you can't say I didn't warn you! 

Thank you again, Rachel! The book sounds really interesting. --The Fiction Fairy

The Poisonwood Bible

Rachel Durazzani says:


The Poisonwood Bible is an interesting look into one missionary family's experiences as they relocated to Africa, in an effort to spread Christianity in the Congo in the early 1960s. Each chapter is told from either one of the daughter's or the mother's point of view, making for a quick read. The stories will both inspire you and break your heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was a little iffy when I first started and it did take me a little while to get into it. However, once the character development started, I couldn't wait to get back to the book. I was fascinated by Kingsolver's storytelling and how well she brought the characters to life. I found myself thinking of each of the characters long after I finished reading. Kingsolver does an excellent job of transporting her readers to another world in another time. A must read in my opinion.


Thank you, Rachel!! Sounds like a great book. --The Fiction Fairy