booksncrannies_official's reviews
88 reviews

"We are stronger together" — a quote that 'Allies' beautifully illustrates. A novel of the D-Day invasion, 'Allies' weaves together several characters' lives on that epic day, showing how several people — soldier, paratrooper, medic, and French resistance worker — all played a part to make this allied invasion possible. 'Allies' also gives readers a realistic look at the dilemmas the troops faced in the-not-planned events of D-Day. Due be aware that frequent inappropriate language occurs in the book; this was a great disappointment to me and tears down the plot quite a bit. Overall though, 'Allies' is an accurate, broad, and action-packed portrayal of the day that saved the world from Nazi tyranny.

'The American' is in its own right an interesting and different read. Written in the style of psychological realism, the novel has very little external conflict and more internal and emotional conflict and actions. The plot is really uneventful and boring. It was somewhat suspenseful, however, near the end; overall, though, the wordiness of descriptions and the lack of action make this a book I would not recommend (unless you happen to like this style). If you do read this novel, be aware there are a few swear words used.

Set during WWII in Nazi Germany, 'Projekt 1065' is an action-packed, adrenaline-producing novel. The fast-paced action and the gripping plot make this book a page-turner! Because the main character is a spy for the Allies, his involvement in the Hitler Youth gives the story another level of suspense. In well developed, dynamic characterization 'Projekt 1065' clearly portrays the delusion most Hitler Youth boys were under in their "quest" to die for the Füher. This suspenseful novel is one you don't want to miss!

The story of a canine hero, 'Max' is a vividly written and heartfelt novel. After the death of their son and brother Kyle, the family receives Max, Kyle's highly trained military dog. This dog is the element in the story that will provide for excellent dynamic characterization in the other protagonists of the book. The denouement of the story is very satisfying and heartwarming. With its action, adventure, mystery, and friendships, 'Max' makes for an enduring read.

'Carry On, Mr. Bowditch' was an informative and enlightening story about early navigation. The book follows the life of Nathaniel Bowditch, a man who revolutionized and improved navigation in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Having received very little education, Bowditch, after working all day at a ship chandlery, would study many subjects on his own during the night. Through this study and other helps he mastered three languages besides English, learned astronomy, improved his algebraic skills, and contributed a wealth of knowledge to navigation. He made many voyages to sea, wrote a navigation book, and received an honorary degree from Harvard. 'Carry On, Mr. Bowditch' is a very informative book on the life of this ingenious man.

So many pertinent answers for current issues. A must read!!

"Don't listen.... Don't look. Don't think. Only remember." Private Peaceful> is an example of the masterful use of flashback in its portrayal of the life of Thomas Peaceful, a private in the British army during WWI. For some reason not known until the end of the book, Private Peaceful wishes not to sleep on a certain night — the night before something will change his life forever. By reliving his whole life that night, Peaceful takes the reader closer to that life-changing event. Michael Morpurgo further enhances the suspense and makes the story come alive by dividing the book into different times of night. Private Peacefulis a reminiscent and nostalgic novel. I would recommend this book only to mature readers, however, as it contains several swear words, immoral conduct, war violence, and some complex anti-Christian statements.

A novel that gives a different view of the American War for Independence, 'My Brother Sam Is Dead' delivers a raw and devastating portrayal of life during a war. The story clearly illustrates the division of the country, towns, and families over the issue of loyalty to the King of Britain or fighting to gain independence. Being told from mostly a Tory position, the novel gives readers a different and thought-provoking narrative. However, I must say that this book was a letdown both in its frequent (and I mean frequent) use of inappropriate language and ending that lacked any kind of literary quality. The story itself, though, did prove interesting.

Humorous and satirical, 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court' delivers a wonderfully devised collision of the sixth and nineteenth centuries. The plot of this novel is highly entertaining and captivating. Through the eyes of the sixth century inhabitants, the "magic" of the nineteenth century is seen in a humorous way to the reader but as witchcraft to them. Throughout the plot, Mark Twain exposes the insubstantiality of both eras. 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court' makes for a hilarious and enjoyable read. Highly recommended!