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		<title>THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT: A Novel ~Jennifer Cody Epstein</title>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 08:23:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Japan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jennifer Cody Epstein]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tokyo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[USA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[War]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WWII]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://patriciaswisdom.com/?p=2296</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The horrendous atrocities of war and the delicate strength of the human spirit are all wrapped up in this novel about the firebombing of Tokyo during World War II.  THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT is a work of art and beauty and I will read it again to ease the tensions which continue to cross [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/the-gods-of-heavenly-punishment-a-novel-jennifer-cody-epstein/">THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT: A Novel ~Jennifer Cody Epstein</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/039307157X/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=039307157X&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=039307157X&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="105" height="160" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=039307157X" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
The horrendous atrocities of war and the delicate strength of the human spirit are all wrapped up in this novel about the firebombing of Tokyo during World War II.  <strong>THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT</strong> is a work of art and beauty and I will read it again to ease the tensions which continue to cross my mind and disrupt my awareness.</p>
<blockquote><p>“I dare you to read this and not be swept up. THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT is shocking and delicate in equal measure.”  Debra Dean, author, of THE MADONNAS Of LENINGRAD (on the book jacket)</p></blockquote>
<p>This is the story of Yoshi and how war and a host of people will direct her experience of war and lead to her survival.  She is the daughter of a Japanese builder who has worked with an Architect to change the skyline of Tokyo (Yep! Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel is part of the story) and her mother who is the granddaughter of a Samurai Warrior who has a troubled past; she speaks many languages fluently.  It is the story of the architect who builds the new vision, then works on its destruction and how he knows Yoshi.  It is the story of Cam a fighter pilot who has wanted to fly an airplane his whole life; he is one of the downed pilots after an initial bombing raid.  On this list of Yoshi’s journey, I must include Billy who was born in Japan and returns as an occupation soldier for the rebuilding process.</p>
<p>I do not read the book covers or the promo pages that come with the tour book I agree to review.  I find that those words often color the read for me and I think they often tell far too much of the story line and cancel my minds ability to imagine and discover.  I quite often read each book twice, as I did for THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT.   The second read looks through eyes of what research the author acknowledges and the personal notes on hopes and expectations for the book and thanks to the editors and publishers.  This novel was extensively researched and then rendered with a divine stroke of the pen to give the reader a crystal understanding faceted with elegance and grace.  The book jacket uses the word <strong>meditation</strong> to describe this story telling and I would have to agree.</p>
<p>All the shocking horror of war and that experience is right there and in one page you know it, and by the next page the reader is moving on and integrating the disgust and shock into the child’s growth and understanding.   How could we ever have another war?  This story does not leave the mind; it stays put.</p>
<blockquote><p>“Jennifer Cody Epstein depicts the firebombing of Tokyo and concurrent events in unflinching but delicately rendered detail.  Immaculately researched and deeply imagined, this is an astonishing novel whose battles and intimate encounters alike carry the force of electric jolt.  I have never read anything else like it.”  Angel Davis-Gardner, author of BUTTERFLY”S CHILD (book jacket)</p></blockquote>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1352" alt="tlclogo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a>TLC online book tours and W.W. Norton &amp; Company sent me a preview copy to review.  Thank you very much for this honor and privilege to read this book.  I am sure I will read it for a third time.</p>
<p>If you only read one book in 2013 make sure it is THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/36324?p_hp_1">Powell’s</a> from this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcomed.</p>
<p>Related Reading:<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-constellation-of-vital-phenomena-a-novel-anthony-marra/">A Constellation of Vital Phenomena </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2008/06/book-review-hannah-coulter-wendell-berry/">Hannah Coulter </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/11/thirty-days-with-my-father-finding-peace-from-wartime-ptsd-christal-presley-phd/ ">Thirty Days With My Father (PTSD)</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-bequest-of-big-daddy-jo-ann-costa/  ">The Bequest of Big Daddy </a></p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/the-gods-of-heavenly-punishment-a-novel-jennifer-cody-epstein/">THE GODS OF HEAVENLY PUNISHMENT: A Novel ~Jennifer Cody Epstein</a></p>
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		<title>A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA: A Novel ~Anthony Marra</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 20 May 2013 08:47:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2004]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anthony Marra]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chechnya]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family saga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[literary]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rebels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Russia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[War]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://patriciaswisdom.com/?p=2294</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When I first began reading A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA I thought I would describe it as stream of consciousness style writing or a vintage Russian Novelist’s style, and then when I would talk about the book, folks would say “I don’t want to read something like that!”  How could I share that I was [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-constellation-of-vital-phenomena-a-novel-anthony-marra/">A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA: A Novel ~Anthony Marra</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0770436404/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=0770436404&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=0770436404&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="105" height="160" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=0770436404" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
When I first began reading A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA I thought I would describe it as stream of consciousness style writing or a vintage Russian Novelist’s style, and then when I would talk about the book, folks would say “I don’t want to read something like that!”  How could I share that I was fascinated by the story and was diving into the words head first only to be tossed over heels by the emotional depth and drive of the story line.  I did have to wrap myself up in a blanket as I was cold as winter in several sections of this amazing read.</p>
<p>CONSTELLATION is Anthony Marra’s first novel, but he has garnered prizes galore for his writing.  He is under 30 and has already completed undergraduate work; the Iowa Writer’s Workshop and won numerous awards; he works at Stanford University.   He has done a great deal of travel and study to write this story and produce this novel about 2 back to back wars in Chechnya which is quite a read.</p>
<p>The story takes place over 5 days in December 2004 most action centers around Hospital #6 and the last remaining doctor practicing and becoming an amazing surgeon.  Sonja, the London trained Russian physician, is the only doctor left in the hospital which used to have 500 doctors on staff.  She and a 79 year old nurse amputate, sew up, heal, and deliver babies in this building.  They have both lost a sister and are grieving, mourning, and healing. Sonja is saving lives.</p>
<p>The book is about war, death, disappearances, cold, hunger, fear, refugees, prostitution, slavery, illness, realities, torture and an eight year old girl.</p>
<p>The book is a mined field and you must learn the route and warning signs.  There are so many metaphors and symbols and truths all rolled around fantastical adjectives and swear words to satisfy any reader that the existence of the many is always, always in turmoil.  The problem-solvers and the creative are the most fluent of the survivors.</p>
<p>The book is a love story.</p>
<p>An arborist, a historian, a failed doctor all love this child and do everything within their power to save this child’s life.   <em>“She is safe.”</em>   She is hope.  She is future.</p>
<p>Reconstruction is fully on the shoulders of the survivors who were not discovered as they risked.  The world hardly knows that they are a part of this planet; until their distress is played out in Boston.</p>
<p>How can we as people keep continuing to make war?  How can we as human beings continue to allow torture; especially that for which we turn a blind eye? This book will leave you breathless and asking questions; ignite your circuits.</p>
<p>This book is about the ugliness of war and the tremendous loss when humanity is forfeited and the goal is to enjoy the pain and suffering of a defeated country with no one coming to its aid.  This is a story about the ordinary people in a small village surviving, healing, and overcoming the atrocities of WAR which are so plainly revealed to the reader and how love is the vital phenomena of living. How love overcomes our worst trials and fears.   We all need to read A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA.</p>
<p>Related Reading:<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-dual-inheritance-joanna-hershon/">A Dual Inheritance</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/01/the-myths-of-happiness-sonja-lyubomirsky/">The Myths of Happiness </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/08/when-women-were-birds-fifty-four-variations-on-voice-terry-tempest-williams/">When Women Were Birds </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/03/the-dressmaker-of-khair-khana-gayle-tzemach-lemmon/  ">The Dressmaker of Khair Khana </a></p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1352" alt="tlclogo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a> I received a Kindle proof copy of A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA from TLC books and Hogarth Publishing.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/36324?p_hp_1">Powell’s </a>  from this site I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcomed.</p>
<p>Powell’s also has signed copies of this novel available and is the STAFF PICK of the MONTH.</p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-constellation-of-vital-phenomena-a-novel-anthony-marra/">A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA: A Novel ~Anthony Marra</a></p>
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		<title>A COMPLICATED MARRIAGE: My Life With Clement Greenberg ~Janice Van Horne</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Patriciaswisdomcom/~3/PS4uUDAzVDY/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 08:13:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[1940-2010]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[A COMPLICATED MARRIAGE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Clement Greenberg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jackson Pollock]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Janice Van Horne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[memoir]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New England]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New York]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Open Marriage]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[A Complicated Marriage:  My Life With Clement Greenberg is a memoir written by Janice Van Horne starting with her at age 21 and just graduating from Bennington College and moving into her first apartment in New York City.  The book opens at a swish party describing Van Horne, surroundings and the guests.   This is the [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-complicated-marriage-my-life-with-clement-greenberg-janice-van-horne/">A COMPLICATED MARRIAGE: My Life With Clement Greenberg ~Janice Van Horne</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1582438218/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1582438218&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=1582438218&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="108" height="160" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=1582438218" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
<strong>A Complicated Marriage:  My Life With Clement Greenberg</strong> is a memoir written by Janice Van Horne starting with her at age 21 and just graduating from Bennington College and moving into her first apartment in New York City.  The book opens at a swish party describing Van Horne, surroundings and the guests.   This is the moment when she meets Clement Greenberg, the now famous art critic.  It is the start of the era of  Modern Art and this body of work.  Most of the artists are still at the “starving” artist’s stage but those on Greenberg’s friends list are going to be the top of the line big names and money makers of this particular period of time.</p>
<p>One is going to glimpse into the lives of some of these artists but that is actually part two of the book.  The first part of the book is about how Greenberg, the much older man, and Van Horne  get married and then spend weekends with all these artists at the artist’s homes.  7 major players get their own chapters including Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. Greenberg is good friends with these two people the connection is examined.  The Greenberg’s have a rather large collection of the paintings and sculptures of the artists, which some people said were bribes for great reviews by Greenberg. The book is not actually a biography of Greenberg; I do think art history majors would enjoy parts of this book about his personal life and friendships because it offers a different perspective.</p>
<p>One of the primary currents of the story is how a young girl with no plans, no great ambitions, and an open marriage learns to define herself and find a life purpose.  She is not much of a cook, they do not have a regular income, and she is not a caregiver/traditional woman.  Actually she is a German heritage child, who has been abandoned by alcoholism and departure by the men in her early life, who has a rather “airy” beautiful mother, and extended family which attacks and loudly distances themselves from her for marrying a Jew raised in the Southern United States.  She has married someone who actually loves her and is willing to care for her, likes her brashness, and insists that she handle the money in their lives.</p>
<p>She notes often that there are artist’s wives who handle their partner’s businesses and estates well, and there are those which fall down on the job and let other’s steal from the artist.  This management turns out to be her strong talent and in hindsight her real career and gives her the opportunity to pay for analysis, acting classes and be in the theater, an editor of Madison Avenue magazine, a play write, and finally the person who establishes the collection of her spouse and his papers are prepared for becoming a part of a historic era and a library.</p>
<p>I could really identify with Van Horne’s journey to her authentic self and when through a terrible Ponzi scheme she and her daughter lost nearly all their funds and future, I was happy she was able to testify in court and get some satisfaction along with her credit rating restored including an opportunity to move forward.  After years of affairs, divorce and remarriage, she finally understood the kind of caregiver she could become and took charge of that role as Greenberg was dying.  I believe she must be near 80 as she is writing her volume, and she is still very much in control, but less tense and insecure as a person.</p>
<p>A COMPLICATED MARRIAGE was a good read and I am positive those who like to figure out what is going on behind the scenes and the gossipy side of life will love this book.   I got a bit tired of the New York, power trippy, snobby analysis of other people and how they lived their lives. It was shallow reading and name dropping.  I really could not connect with her perception of poor/poverty that she experienced.  Yes, I suppose having to make curtains, purchase clothing from SEARS, and going to all the correct schools through Bennington College (the most expensive college in the nation) on scholarship was hard to deal with in her context of wealth and entitlement; and yet, there was always money for cars, education, society and lots and lots of alcohol – not to mention art and trips to Europe as the lecturer’s bored wife.</p>
<p>If you like memoir and learning about the art scene of the 50s and 60s, <strong>A COMPLICATED MARRIAGE</strong> is a read you will enjoy.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from<a href="http://www.amazon.com"> Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/36324?p_hp_1">Powell’s</a> this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1352" alt="tlclogo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a>I was provided with a proof copy of this book by TLC online book tours and Counterpoint Publishing.</p>
<p>Related Reading:  Under the top tab Recommended Reading you might also find more books you wish to read and enjoy.</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/03/on-reading-a-memoir/">On Reading Memoir </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/11/confessions-of-joan-the-tall-a-memoir-notable-voices-joan-cusack-handler/  ">Confessions of Joan The Tall </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/08/when-women-were-birds-fifty-four-variations-on-voice-terry-tempest-williams/  ">When Women Were Birds </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/08/wild-from-lost-to-found-on-the-pacific-coast-trail-by-cheryl-strayed/  ">Wild </a></p>
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<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-complicated-marriage-my-life-with-clement-greenberg-janice-van-horne/">A COMPLICATED MARRIAGE: My Life With Clement Greenberg ~Janice Van Horne</a></p>
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		<title>IN THE GARDEN OF STONE ~Susan Tekulve</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2013 08:42:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coal mining]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family saga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[historic fiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IN THE GARDEN OF STONE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Italian immigrants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Susan Tekulve]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Virginia]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[IN THE GARDEN OF STONE is one of the nicest reads I have had in a long time.  It is just full of the most wonderful details of nature, and my mind was able to bring me right to the path and let me integrate the experience like a refreshing walk;  a little vacation, which [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/in-the-garden-of-stone-susan-tekulve/">IN THE GARDEN OF STONE ~Susan Tekulve</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1891885219/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1891885219&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=1891885219&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="103" height="160" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=1891885219" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
IN THE GARDEN OF STONE is one of the nicest reads I have had in a long time.  It is just full of the most wonderful details of nature, and my mind was able to bring me right to the path and let me integrate the experience like a refreshing walk;  a little vacation, which slowed my pace and refreshed my spirit.</p>
<p>I was experiencing a tremendous windstorm which was transitioning the chill of spring into the heat of summer when I sat down to read this saga about an Italian immigrant’s family working the coal mines and living in a company shanty town called WAR.  The first and second generations were living in the dark and could not see another way, and they condemned those that tried and then returned.  They seemed to hope for the same life that they were experiencing right down to the plain un-nourishing food they were eating.  When in 1924 a young railroad man discovers a miner’s daughter, age 16, who is capable of learning to dream.  They are wed and move away to build a house/home and a magnificent garden as the ones which were built in ancient Italy.  The man, who went to Italy and became a stone mason, has a dream and a good heart.</p>
<p>The son is the connecting bond to all the other stories of all the characters of this saga which carries the reader to 1973 and the expectation of a great-grandchild.  Each chapter focuses on a period of time and individuals which will make the story move forward.  The characters are so well developed as though they were the focal point of a short story, and then they disappear and reappear in the next stories/chapters to complete the picture.   The characters are so crucial to the evolution of this family saga and how they integrate finally into their new culture and society.  Many are still stuck in the old ways today, afraid to come out of the mines and we definitely understand how love and a “strong hand” can guide one up and out of the dark places individuals reside.</p>
<p>Susan Tekulve teaches writing at Converse College in Spartanburg, South Carolina and her novel IN THE GARDEN OF STONE makes a fine contribution to Southern literature. Her writing style is gentle and deep; she is not afraid to expose the painful pivotal moments of life. I know I will read this book again.</p>
<p>You ‘all, I can just see you in the garden, with a cool drink in hand, and flowers on the air enjoying this book in the summer heat while wandering the hills of Virginia with the folks in this story.  Am I right or am I right?</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/tlc-logo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1174" alt="tlc logo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/tlc-logo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a> I received a proof copy of this book from TLC online book tours and HUB CITY Press. It is a lovely, lazy summer afternoon read and I am so pleased to have been given the opportunity to read this story.  It is the winner of the South Carolina First Novel Prize.  The publishers are offering a giveaway of IN THE GARDEN OF STONE to a commenter on this blog site or Facebook.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/36324?p_hp_1">Powell’s</a> from this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations Welcome.</p>
<p>Related Reading:   Under the Recommended Reading tab are many books I have reviewed and which you might also enjoy reading.<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/05/the-paper-garden-an-artist-begins-her-lifes-work-at-72-molly-peacock/ ">The Paper Garden </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2008/06/book-review-animal-vegetable-miracle-a-year-of-food-life/  "> Animal, Vegetable, Miracle</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-clover-house-henriette-lazaridis-power/  ">The Clover House </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-bequest-of-big-daddy-jo-ann-costa/ ">The Bequest of Big Daddy</a></p>
<p>Please share:</p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/in-the-garden-of-stone-susan-tekulve/">IN THE GARDEN OF STONE ~Susan Tekulve</a></p>
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		<title>A DUAL INHERITANCE ~Joanna Hershon</title>
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		<comments>http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-dual-inheritance-joanna-hershon/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 May 2013 08:32:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[A DUAL INHERITANCE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Boston]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daughters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[enculturation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fathers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Joanna Hershon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[legacy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://patriciaswisdom.com/?p=2284</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I was hooked immediately on A DUAL INHERITANCE and I hated to put it down.  The two young men in the 1960s are people I know and I lived around and I went to school with them.  This was a work of fiction but it drew compelling characters into you and you wanted to know [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-dual-inheritance-joanna-hershon/">A DUAL INHERITANCE ~Joanna Hershon</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0345468473/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=0345468473&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=0345468473&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="105" height="160" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=0345468473" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
I was hooked immediately on A DUAL INHERITANCE and I hated to put it down.  The two young men in the 1960s are people I know and I lived around and I went to school with them.  This was a work of fiction but it drew compelling characters into you and you wanted to know what happened and wow did it have a great ending; it kept driving forward. It just stayed as good a read on every page.   I did not want to skip a word.</p>
<p>It was very helpful to be reminded of this theory and term right at the beginning: <span style="color: #339966;">“Dual Inheritance theory (DIT), also known as gene-culture coevolution, was developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s to explain how human behavior is a product of two different and interacting evolutionary processes: genetic evolution and cultural evolution.”</span></p>
<p>The characters remained wholeheartedly on target to demonstrate this theory and I found myself saying, “oh yeah!”  I could follow it closely and carefully and yet it allowed one to escape into the story completely.  Hershon is a good storyteller, and she does not assume we will just know the details; perfectly detailed right down to the mosquitos.</p>
<p>Ed and Hugh meet while students at Harvard.  Ed is a scholarship student, Summa Cum Laude graduate and a Jew.  Hugh is from a long family line of Harvard attendees and from a wealthy family.  They have each lost their mothers at an early age and their fathers seemed to be determined to find fault with everything they do in a nasty way.  Ed goes into finance and Hugh plans on being a photographer for documentaries, though ends up doing humanitarian work and developing free clinics in Africa and Haiti. Each man marries within the family expectation, and each man has a daughter.  After losing the connection of their friendship, amazingly their daughters attend the same school and bring them back together when they are Grandfathers.</p>
<p>I have seen this pattern play out a number of times in my lifetime and although this is a fictional story, A DUAL INHERITANCE dances well with the concept of the theory and the writing is just so worthwhile.  I was reminded of how much I enjoyed reading THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF KAVALIER AND KLAY, which also traces two young men on an adventure into the American experience, whereas Ed and Hugh are born years later and are already cast into the American scene.  It was just this very East Coast traditionalism which made me so happy to return to the West Coast and a very Independent State.  I am not of the cowboy rancher dynasty experience, but more of the justice and community building – let’s celebrate everyone’s experience – cooperation.   Ed and Hugh missed out on the Viet Nam and Korea experiences because of money and health; whereas I was in the thick of it from pacifists, dodgers, religious exemptions, and soldiers training, wounded, and returning home. The story is still replete with the alcohol and drug addictions of the generation.</p>
<p>I think this is a grand story and one many can identify with and explore.  It is going to be difficult for anyone to put the book down; A DUAL INHERITANCE is a great reading experience.</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/tlc-logo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1174" alt="tlc logo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/tlc-logo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a> I received a proof copy of this book from TLC online book tours and Ballantine/ Random House Publishing Group. Thank you.   I am very, very happy they shared this book with me – because I really, really liked it and I think you will too.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com">Amazon</a>  or <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/36324?p_hp_1">Powell’s</a>  from this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcome.</p>
<p>Related Reading:  Look under the tab Recommended Reading there are lots and lots of book reviews there you might enjoy.<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2010/05/book-review-the-amazing-adventures-of-kavalier-and-clay-michael-chabon/  ">The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/03/five-great-reads-to-add-to-your-list/  ">Mountains Upon Mountains </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/margaret-fuller-a-new-american-life-megan-marshall/">Margaret Fuller </a><br />
<a href=" http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/11/the-swan-thieves-a-novel-elizabeth-kostova/  ">The Swan Thieves</a></p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/05/a-dual-inheritance-joanna-hershon/">A DUAL INHERITANCE ~Joanna Hershon</a></p>
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		<title>THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY  ~Jo-Ann Costa</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:04:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Civil War]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[historic fiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jo-Ann Costa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[plantations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Power]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reconstruction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY is a very fun read and a very fast read and I was so happy to have it to pick up and put down while waiting at all my appointments.   I had just finished THE KITCHEN HOUSE  which is all about the Southern Plantation from the slave’s perspective and has [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-bequest-of-big-daddy-jo-ann-costa/">THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY  ~Jo-Ann Costa</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1938467272/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1938467272&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=1938467272&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="106" height="160" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=1938467272" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
<strong>THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY</strong> is a very fun read and a very fast read and I was so happy to have it to pick up and put down while waiting at all my appointments.   I had just finished <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-House-Novel-Kathleen-Grissom/dp/1439153663/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1366918813&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=the+kitchen+house ">THE KITCHEN HOUSE</a>  which is all about the Southern Plantation from the slave’s perspective and has become quite popular. Whereas <strong>THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY</strong> is definitely a view of the South from the Caucasian viewpoint pre- Civil war, through reconstruction and to present day family reunions.</p>
<p>Jo-Ann Costa the author of the BEQUEST saga, now hails from California, but belongs to a family tree of the largest “good ol’ Alabama family reunion group that meets today; over 400 members present at each gathering.  With a twinkle in her eye and connected to her pen, Costa creates memorable stereotypical characters that take us from the loss of the gracious Georgia Plantation through the Civil War, Reconstruction, and into the present experience of tight knit family loyalties and traditions being played out repeatedly even today.</p>
<p>At the beginning, a very angry daughter produces a lie and a son  for the protection of the Plantation and wealth, these two individuals are shipped off to a “safer” family home in Alabama to ride out the War.  The new Big Daddy is allowed to wander and grow undisciplined and unloved.   Throw in several very fearful experiences include loneliness and the path is laid out for the development of the role and the wealth which will come as the child learns about power, control and manhood.</p>
<p>I thought the book shared some deeper southern tales about the convicts who were used to keep the south working, producing and not appearing to have slaves.  Of course, most of the convicts were freed slaves arrested on trumpeted up charges and still working the farms and mills.   Also the role of the southern “old school” politicians is spelled out in smaller relief so that one is enabled to an understanding of  how that same control and power model is being played out in Congress and Legislatures currently.  Those values are almost DNA embedded now; it will take heaps of education and time to begin changing that mode of behavior and the belief systems which fuel it.</p>
<p>After spending 3 years of my life as a neighbor of the Billy Graham Crusades and that religious fervor, I would say that the Reverend is the Big Daddy of another mode of southern power and control which has not lost it’s dynamics over time either.</p>
<p>Oh what can be born of fear and hate, even when we call it love and strength?</p>
<p>It took me about 6 hours to read this book and I want to share it with my book group.  I think some of the power of this book is because it is easy and fast to read and I think it would make a great companion for High School and College students for their American History course work. (Or is that still required?)  I think everyone will enjoy reading THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY.</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1352" alt="tlclogo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a>Thank you once again to TLC online book tours for sharing this book with me.  I did receive an advanced reading copy from Koehler Books.</p>
<blockquote><p>“The Bequest of Big Daddy, An epic adventure of Civil War and Reconstruction South. First runner up Award for Historical Fiction”</p></blockquote>
<p>Related Reading:  This is a list of reviews I have written and I think are related to the topic in this book. I invite the reader to explore the RECOMMENDED READING tab at the top frame of this blog, because there are hundreds of books listed there and links which you might also enjoy.</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/11/televenge-pamela-king-cable/  ">Televenge </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/02/the-immortal-life-of-henrietta-lacks-rebecca-skloot/  ">The Immortal Life of Henrietta Sacks </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/01/freedom-a-novel-jonathan-franzen/">Freedom </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2010/02/book-review-the-help-kathryn-stockett/  ">The HELP </a></p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/partner/36324?p_hp_1">Powell’s</a> from this site I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcome.</p>
<p>This particular book is only $4.61 on KINDLE</p>
<p>Please, please remember that “to share” is a good thing. Here are the buttons</p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-bequest-of-big-daddy-jo-ann-costa/">THE BEQUEST OF BIG DADDY  ~Jo-Ann Costa</a></p>
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		<title>HALF AS HAPPY: STORIES ~Gregory Spatz</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:20:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dysfunctions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gregory Spatz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HALF AS HAPPY: STORIES]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[happiness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[short stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spokane]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[HALF AS HAPPY: STORIES  is just about that, you know those moments in life when you could feel contented and happy and you just cannot let go of something that worries or concerns you and accept the full feeling mode.  Eight intense stories of how folks assume they should feel or how they place “old [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/half-as-happy-stories-gregory-spatz-unedited/">HALF AS HAPPY: STORIES ~Gregory Spatz</a></p>
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				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1938126092/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1938126092&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="tqgsbnfwrkhxeixluhnt" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=1938126092&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" border="0" /></a><img class="tqgsbnfwrkhxeixluhnt" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=1938126092" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
HALF AS HAPPY: STORIES  is just about that, you know those moments in life when you could feel contented and happy and you just cannot let go of something that worries or concerns you and accept the full feeling mode.  Eight intense stories of how folks assume they should feel or how they place “old stories” upon themselves and cannot release them to fully partake of the present tense.</p>
<p>This book came to me as a “squeeze in” and I did not have the time to read it twice.  I had to make every page count.   I do so enjoy a short story and just capturing that moment in a character’s living which needs to tell a whole story and be complete.   THE BOWMAKER’S CATS  just left me feeling like I was breathing the gypsy air of mystery and music, that is so apart of my expectation and one often does not think co-exists in the current time zone.  The twists of a short story meshed with a traditional irony and how easily the reader “sees” and the character needs assistance and contemplation to figure it out.</p>
<p>The mothers and fathers of these folks do not fare well under Spatz words.  Then we are a society which blames with ease and then holds on to something as the answer; often loath to question.  His words expose a countryside which is harsher and not so readily fogged in or misty and as a result his descriptions mark the intense feelings that are being held inside and go unrevealed.</p>
<p>Half As Happy: Stories startled my imagination into high gear.  It made me wish I was the Counselor assigned to the characters to assist with finding relief and moving forward with their lives.  I dove deep into my feelings over the daughters killed by drunk drivers.   I have little patience myself with folks who think gambling is the way to find happy, especially when they are cruising through some of the greatest landscape in the known world,  but then what do I know?  An identical twin trying to be “his own self”, and not being able to understand that their biology already made them separate; unique and reoccurring theme.</p>
<p>I like to keep a collection of short stories with me at all times.  I am sure I will read this collection again in the next few months.   This is very masculine thinking exposed with an intensity that feels very much like a sporting contest.  The segments about music and instruments allowed an opening for breathing and exhaling. The writing is excellent.  You are going to like Half As Happy: Stories</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1352" alt="tlclogo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/tlclogo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://tlcbooktours.com/2013/04/gregory-spatz-author-of-half-as-happy-on-tour-april-2013/  ">Tour list </a></p>
<p>I am so happy that TLC book tours asked me to be on this tour and that I can offer a giveaway from Engine Books, publishers.  I would have missed a delightful read if left to my own devises on this one, because It was not apparent that this was about Eastern Washington State and written by a local author/ writing professor.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.gregoryspatz.com/  ">Gregory Spatz Page </a></p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-9781938126093-0 ">Powell’s </a>from this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcomed.</p>
<p>Related Reading you might enjoy:<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/07/the-art-of-racing-in-the-rain-garth-stein/">The Art of Racing in the Rain </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2009/04/book-review-the-highest-tide-jim-lynch/  ">The Highest Tide </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/04/poser-my-life-in-twenty-three-yoga-poses-claire-dederer/  ">Poser </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2010/06/the-love-ceiling-a-novel-by-jean-davies-okimoto/ ">The Love Ceiling  </a></p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/half-as-happy-stories-gregory-spatz-unedited/">HALF AS HAPPY: STORIES ~Gregory Spatz</a></p>
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		<title>MARGARET FULLER: A New American Life ~Megan Marshall</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:36:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[biography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Emerson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MARGARET FULLER]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Megan Marshall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Peabody Sisters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoreau]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[MARGARET FULLER is an American Heroine.  Born in Massachusetts in 1810, she was a woman very much ahead of her time.   She is the first born of 9 children (2 died in infancy)  and her father, a politician and lawyer, was determined that she know how to think and analyze information and the world.  He [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/margaret-fuller-a-new-american-life-megan-marshall/">MARGARET FULLER: A New American Life ~Megan Marshall</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0547195605/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=0547195605&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="oqkmmouivoqnjddveuzb alignleft" style="border: 0px none;" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=0547195605&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" width="107" height="160" border="0" /></a><img class="oqkmmouivoqnjddveuzb" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=0547195605" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
<strong>MARGARET FULLER</strong> is an American Heroine.  Born in Massachusetts in 1810, she was a woman very much ahead of her time.   She is the first born of 9 children (2 died in infancy)  and her father, a politician and lawyer, was determined that she know how to think and analyze information and the world.  He home schooled Margaret and taught her to read several languages and Greek Mythology, until he felt she needed a finishing school to make a good marriage.  He did his teaching and drills from Washington DC with no cell phone or computer – only massive amounts of study and letters!</p>
<p>Margaret Fuller was considered plain and brilliant, a genius, and her conversations were deep and intelligent. She was not afraid to express her opinion and ideas and the write dissertations from her study and discussions.   When her father died she was just 18 she took over the care of her younger siblings, and teaching them.  She taught school and was a governess and had a number of male friends over the years in which she could debate and draw conclusions; projecting future outcomes.</p>
<p>One of her early writing jobs was as editor of <strong>THE DIAL</strong> a famous magazine of the intellectual elite.  She wrote a great many of the articles for the magazine and edited the work of Emerson, Thoreau, Hawthorne, and other famous intellectuals of the Enlightenment Period in New England.  As the reigning intellectual of the day Emerson was often out- shined by Fuller.  She was too poor to have made a trip to Europe for study, although she got there by being the first foreign correspondent for the New York – Tribune, Horace Greeley’s newspaper.   She covered the 1840’s revolutions in Europe and in Rome.  The list of her acquaintances looks like a “Who’s – Who” of the European literary elite.</p>
<p>I related to <strong>MARGARET FULLER</strong> and found the book very difficult to put down.  I often read until my eyes were tried and the print seemed too small to find focus.  She was considered odd in her community because of her intellect.  She was often lonely and wanted for someone to talk with and debate her ideas.   The men seemed stuck in their pursuits and generation of new concepts; too bound in their ideas and so she, being in need of financially supporting her family, began discussion groups of women called THE CONVERSATIONS and she took the groups of women through the steps necessary to think and discuss and produce great thoughts on their own.    She rendered change through education. I too often hunger for great conversation and discussion, and since the passing of my father, I have met few people who would like to join me – especially men.</p>
<p>As a front page editorial writer for the Tribune, Fuller went to the prisons and shared the stories of that experience, the plight of the urban poor, and the prostitutes of the city.  Her articles were well received and brilliantly written.   When in Rome covering the Siege in 1849, she found a young man who cared for her; she married and gave birth to a son.</p>
<p>When her child was two years old and Margaret Fuller was just turned 40, she packed up her family and headed home.  The ship ran aground in a brutal storm, and all three were drowned.  “ Her life’s work was eclipsed by tragedy and scandal.”</p>
<p><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tlc-logo.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1108" alt="tlc logo" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/tlc-logo.png" width="150" height="150" /></a>Once again I am grateful for TLC online books tours and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishers for sending this book to me for review.  For some reason I did not know about <strong>MARGARET FULLER</strong> and that is rather amazing because  Emerson, Thoreau, and the Alcott family of the Enlightenment period in New England figured prominently in my Thesis research and writing.  This is a well-researched biography of an important woman in the history of the USA and development of women’s rights.  I want to share this book with my three daughters and all the women that I know.</p>
<p>There is a giveaway from the publishers for this book for a great comment.  Do you like to read historic biography?  Do you believe this heroine might speak to you in the present tense?</p>
<p>Megan Marshall, a detailed and gifted writer, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for her book – The Peabody Sisters – and she teaches at Emerson College.  I believe folks will enjoy reading <strong>MARGARET FULLER</strong>.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href="http://www.amazon.com">Amazon </a>  or <a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-9780547195605-0 ">Powell’s </a>  from this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcomed.</p>
<p>Related Reading You might also enjoy:<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/02/dualism-i/ ">Dualism I  </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2008/06/book-review-hannah-coulter-wendell-berry/">Hannah Coulter</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/05/the-paper-garden-an-artist-begins-her-lifes-work-at-72-molly-peacock/">The Paper Garden </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/11/confessions-of-joan-the-tall-a-memoir-notable-voices-joan-cusack-handler/">Confessions of Joan The Tall</a></p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/margaret-fuller-a-new-american-life-megan-marshall/">MARGARET FULLER: A New American Life ~Megan Marshall</a></p>
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		<title>Morning Light is Revealing – II</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Apr 2013 21:40:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Wisdom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[journal writing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[morning light]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[painting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[revelations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spring cleaning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sunrise]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://patriciaswisdom.com/?p=2269</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On March 23rd, 2009, I posted this post.  The spring light has been so revealing this year, I am busy painting the kitchen and using this Spring Energy Boost to clean out file drawers, cabinets, cupboards and simplify.  I thought I would share an oldie but goodie from the last time I felt this need [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/morning-light-is-revealing-ii/">Morning Light is Revealing – II</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On March 23rd, 2009, I posted this post.  The spring light has been so revealing this year, I am busy painting the kitchen and using this Spring Energy Boost to clean out file drawers, cabinets, cupboards and simplify.  I thought I would share an oldie but goodie from the last time I felt this need to lighten up.     Ode to the joy of change!  Enjoy</p>
<p>********</p>
<div id="attachment_1051" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Window-Box.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-1051" alt="Window Box" src="http://patriciaswisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Window-Box.jpg" width="288" height="203" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Window Box</p></div>
<p>Spring and summer the morning light enters my kitchen windows at just the right angle to reveal every drip, smear and dust particle on all the cabinets and appliances. The splashes above the sink look like sparkling tear drops on the window.</p>
<p>The morning light is so revealing and it inspires me to get into the corners and drawers to clean all the nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Twice a year at our house, the sun rise comes right out of the top of the snow -capped mountain peak directly east of us. It the clouds are not overcast we get the sun’s rays as a wake-up call. It is so delightful to just stay in bed and feel the shine move across your body.</p>
<p>The dogs and cats we have shared life with could always be found in morning pools of sun on the floors- contentment napping.<br />
The yoga studio I went to when pregnant was bathed in sunlight in the morning hours, and the salute to the sun pattern always felt an entirely appropriate and understandable movement in that space.</p>
<p>Morning walks are always towards the sun, sun at my back, sun to my side as I complete the circle of the Lake. It just feels right.</p>
<p>Journal writing, prayers, and meditations are done in the east window in the morning and I notice my note pad with “mind- wanders” is quite full in the morning as compared to the evening light. Problems from the night before seem to find resolution in the first light.</p>
<p>Yes, I spent years of my life getting up, going to work, getting children off to school, volunteering, and being hyper busy in the morning hours. It did not diminish my revelations in those first efforts.</p>
<p>For me I think it is the end of the darkness, the feeling my way around, that helps me see the light; let it shine. There is clarity and a celebration that the dawn has preceded.</p>
<p>What are your best moments of revelation? When do you know if you have seen the light?<br />
Do you have a favorite story surrounding the light? Please Share, I look forward to your comments.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href=" http://www.amazon.com/">Amazon </a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/18-9781250024114-0 ">Powell’s </a>  from this site, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcomed.</p>
<p>Related Reading I invite you to explore:<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/03/red-fox-%E2%80%93-good-morning/">Red Fox – Good Morning </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/04/poser-my-life-in-twenty-three-yoga-poses-claire-dederer/  ">Poser </a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2009/01/my-heart-is-strong-and-it-is-misshapen/ ">My Heart is Strong and Misshapen</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/03/walking-a-puppy-ii-a-meditation/ ">Walking a Puppy – Meditation </a></p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/morning-light-is-revealing-ii/">Morning Light is Revealing – II</a></p>
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		<title>THE CLOVER HOUSE ~Henriette Lazaridis Power</title>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:17:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>patricia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brene’ Brown]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children’s experience]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greece]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Henriette Lazaridis Power]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[occupation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THE CLOVER HOUSE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WWII]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[THE CLOVER HOUSE is an interesting first novel which takes us on a journey to Greece; not only present day Greece but how life was lived during World War II. It is a story which indicates how a vibrant landowning, wealthy family can be completely changed by war and how it proceeds to change the [...]<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-clover-house-henriette-lazaridis-power/">THE CLOVER HOUSE ~Henriette Lazaridis Power</a></p>
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0345530683/ref=as_li_tf_il?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=0345530683&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=patrswisd-20"><img class="pnpcbgwfakxaqbkbucte" alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=0345530683&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=patrswisd-20" border="0" /></a><img class="pnpcbgwfakxaqbkbucte" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=patrswisd-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=0345530683" width="1" height="1" border="0" /><br />
THE CLOVER HOUSE is an interesting first novel which takes us on a journey to Greece; not only present day Greece but how life was lived during World War II. It is a story which indicates how a vibrant landowning, wealthy family can be completely changed by war and how it proceeds to change the family patterns in the next generations.</p>
<p>The story centers on a family secret that no one is sharing with the youngest member of the present generation &#8211; Calliope.  When Calliope’s only uncle dies she must dive into the contents of his home to figure out what message he is attempting to relay to her.  Calliope has a tough relationship with her Greek Mother and has spent the majority of her formative years living in the New England area of the USA where her American Father brought his new bride.  Summers were spent with her Mother’s family in Greece, where Callie has developed a close relationship with her Aunts, Uncle and one cousin.  Calliope has a problem with attachment to people, particularly her mother and since the death of her father her close knit family in Greece.  It is causing problems with her recent engagement also.</p>
<p>I do not think THE CLOVER HOUSE is about PTSD carried to the next generation, I think rather it is about SHAME from childhood confusions, teenage rebellions, fear and survival carried over from the experience of War into the future.   While I was reading this novel, I read these three quotes shared by <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2010/09/the-gifts-of-imperfection-by-brene-brown-ph-d/">Brene’ Brown</a>, a psychology researcher, on her Blog and I thought they clarified this behavior extremely well.</p>
<blockquote><p>“Shame diminishes our capacity for empathy.“   “Shame corrodes the very part of us that believes we are capable of change.”   And from the book Shame &amp; Guilt by Tangney and Dearing “ …feelings of shame are so painful that it pulls the focus to our own survival, not the experience of other”.</p></blockquote>
<p>I had a hard time feeling the rhythm of the writing in the beginning of the story, then when the story began unfolding and I found the pacing; I could not put the book down.  I loved the cultural differences showcased and explored by the cultural bi-participant.   I have empathy for my parents leaving closely tied family to live far away in another country and yet how my mother particularly grew closer to her siblings as they aged.</p>
<p>I enjoyed the descriptions of farm life and business during the war and the contemporary Carnival experience of Lent played out as a metaphor for the resurrection which brought about atonement – enlightenment- understanding.   There was need of a great many of the details and fine tuning to create this layered story allowing for healing; maybe even redemption and connection.</p>
<p>This book goes on sale April 2, 2013 and I was sent an uncorrected eBook by Ballantine Books/Random House and TLC online Tours. It was a good read and there is a giveaway being offered by the Publishers.   You need to make a comment to win a copy of THE CLOVER HOUSE.</p>
<p>I would truly appreciate if you would share this book review with your social media friends by using the buttons below.  Thank you.</p>
<p>If you purchase anything from <a href=" http://www.amazon.com/The-Clover-House-Novel-ebook/dp/B009QJMWMA/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1364406309&amp;sr=1-1">Amazon</a> or <a href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/62-9780345530684-0 ">Powell’s</a> from this site or Google Ads, I will receive a few beans in my bucket.  Thank you.  Donations also welcomed.</p>
<p>Other Words To Enjoy:<br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/03/capital-of-the-world-the-race-to-host-the-united-nations-charlene-mires/ ">Capital of the World</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/11/thirty-days-with-my-father-finding-peace-from-wartime-ptsd-christal-presley-phd/ ">30 Days With My Father: Finding Peace from Wartime PTSD</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/03/the-dressmaker-of-khair-khana-gayle-tzemach-lemmon/ ">The Dressmaker of Khair Khana</a><br />
<a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2010/05/book-review-the-amazing-adventures-of-kavalier-and-clay-michael-chabon/  ">The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay</a></p>
<p>Post from: <a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com">www.patriciaswisdom.com</a><br/><br/><a href="http://patriciaswisdom.com/2013/04/the-clover-house-henriette-lazaridis-power/">THE CLOVER HOUSE ~Henriette Lazaridis Power</a></p>
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