Title: Canada

Author: Richard Ford

Publisher: Ecco , May 2012

Summary/Review:  Dell (the narrator) and Berner Parsons are ordinary fifteen year old twins living a somewhat isolated life with their parents in Montana circa 1956.  Their father has failed at a number of ventures in his life but has oddly always envisioned himself as a successful bank robber.   So being a little short on money, he decides to carry out a plan and takes their mother along as his accomplice.  They are undetected for a little while, but one day the police finally come and take the parents away to jail, leaving the brother and sister to fend for themselves.  Mrs. Parsons, fearing they would be caught had arranged for a friend to look after the kids, but by the time she shows up, Berner has left for California on her own.  So she drives Dell to Canada to be taken in by her brother.  The brother turns out to be not at all what he first appears to be and when the reasons he is in Canada become evident it provides a twist in the story. Amazingly, Dell never assigns blame or feels anger and continues to believe that both his parents, though misguided, did truly love him and his sister. What happens in this novel is very unpredictable and leaves you wanting to read more to see what finally happens.  There is some foreshadowing as Dell alludes to events which he has not yet related, but you don’t see how can occur until they unfold. The themes of crossing all sorts of boundaries and the force and effect of corrupt acts make this a thought provoking and absorbing read.

Who will like this book:  Someone who likes thought provoking fiction.

Recommended by:  Jan,  Administration

If you would like to see if this book is available or place a hold, visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog [Link will open in a new window]

Title: Schroder

Author: By Amity Gaige

Publisher: Grand Central, 2013

Summary/Review: Erik Schroder is writing a letter to his estranged wife. It is an apology and an explanation as to why he felt compelled to kidnap their daughter. Writing from the correctional facility from which he awaits trial, Erik recounts his life and the choices he’s made that have brought him to this point.

Soon after fleeing East Germany with his father, a young Erik made his first mistake, the ramifications of which were not fully realized until several years later. This lie, his invention of a new name and life history on a summer camp application seemed harmless enough at the time. Out of desperation to leave his German roots and Boston home behind him, Erik Schroder becomes Eric Kennedy. It is as Eric Kennedy, not Erik Schroder that he attends summer camp, goes off to college, falls in love and gets married. It is as Eric Kennedy that he kidnaps his daughter, but it is as Erik Schroder that he now sits in jail.

This is a moving and thought provoking novel that will demand discussion, making it a great choice for book groups. The moral and ethical issues that arise, as well as who may be Erik’s most sympathetic victim, are all fodder for a lively conversation.

Who will like this?: Someone who’s looking for a book that will cause a lively discussion.

If you like this, try this: “My Abandonment” by Peter Rock touches on this subject, though in a very dark way. “Room” by Emma Donoghue shows an alternative viewpoint, of the kidnapped rather than the one kidnapping.

Recommended by: Sue B, Circulation Coordinator

Visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog to see if this book is available, or to place a hold on it! [Link will open in a new window]

Title: The Dog Stars

Author: Peter Heller

Publisher: Knopf, August 2012

Summary/Review: After a pandemic kills 99% of the population, a survivor tries to find some hope for the future.

Hig, along with his dog Jasper and fellow survivor Bangley, is living on a fortified compound in Colorado after a flu pandemic. Their safety is precarious and hinges on Hig’s piloting his 1956 Cessna to scout their area from the air, and Bangley’s uninhibited penchant for killing intruders. Though Bangley seems content with their situation, Hig can’t forget a radio transmission he heard 3 years ago coming from Grand Junction, and the hope that came with it. Hig must decide between his commitment to Bangley and the search for a better existence.

Powerful and beautifully written, Heller’s debut novel not only illustrates the horror and isolation that come with the near-annihilation of mankind, but the new bonds that are forged and the humanism that remains.

Who will like this book: Someone who is sick of reading zombie-pocalypse books and is looking for something a little deeper and more focused on human psychology. Fans of dystopias who are looking for something new.

If you like this, try this: If you would like to read more books about the apocalypse that aren’t centered around zombies, try “I am Legend” by Richard Matheson (the movie remake stars Will Smith). “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy (also made into a movie) is centered around global climate change. Both show the bonds humans form with either one another or the living things around them in hopes of survival. “The Pesthouse” by Jim Crace is more focused on the dark side of humanity and what people can do to out-survive one another- including slavery, thievery, and murder.

This is Peter Heller’s debut, so be on the lookout for more from this author- who is featured on Amazon and shares a picture of the real-life inspiration for Jasper!

Recommended by: Sue B, Circulation Coordinator

If you would like to see if this book is available or place a hold, visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog! [Link will open in a new window]

Title: State of Wonder

Author: Ann Patchett

Publisher: New York : Harper, 2011.

Review/Summary: Dr Marina Singh isn’t one for adventure. She hasn’t even left Minnesota much until she is sent to the Amazon to delve into the mysterious details of the death of her lab partner, Anders Eckman. After working as research scientists at the Vogel pharmaceutical company for seven years Eckman was asked to go check on another scientist’s miracle drug project in Brazil. He never returns. Now Marina is compelled to follow and she finds herself on an unpredictable journey of discovery. Facing sweltering heat, terrifying wildlife and obstructive natives Marina finally locates the camp where Eckman was last seen. There she is reluctantly greeted by a transformative figure from her past and Marina struggles to learn what really happened to Eckman and what exactly they are all doing in this Amazonian rainforest. A multi-layered, subtly rendered and thrilling read.

Who Will Like This: Patchett fans. Patient mystery readers.

If you like this, try this: Bel Canto, also by Patchett. Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese.

Recommended by: Jen, Children’s Assistant

Does this look like something you’d like to try? Check out the Fairfield Public Library catalog to check availability or place a hold!

Title: The Cat’s Table

Author: Michael Ondaatje

Publisher: Knopf, New York: 2011

Summary: I must confess I am thoroughly besotted with Mr. Ondaatje’s writing and romanticism.  Years ago I am came across his first book “Coming Through Slaughter” (House of Anansi, 1976) about the jazz musician Buddy Bolden who lived a very short and troubled life. The language was like a river of torment and beauty structured like the flow of jazz with long riffs, then the staccatos of short blasts and then more complexity as Bolden descends into madness. This was Ondaatje’s first novel and he deservedly won the Books in Canada First Novel Award.  That is when I first caught the Ondaatje bug. The next time I was overwhelmed by his writing is when I read The English Patient – before I saw the lush movie. Once again feel in deep, deep love.  His other books have not been as richly satisfying and I was thinking of ending our love affair. “The Cat’s Table” came out just in time for me to give him one more chance. And voila the sentiments have been renewed.

This book is an exotic “Harriet the Spy” tale set aboard a ship traveling from Sri Lanka to England.  The protagonist is an 11-year old boy who is seated at the lowliest table on the ship complete with a set of eccentric personalities several with big secrets he is compelled to try to reveal. The boy records what he sees on the journey and Ondaatje is a master at capturing the feelings and curiosities of this young explorer. He writes:   “Sleep is a prison for a boy who has friends to meet.” This tale is surely semi auto-biographical as the author is a native of Sri Lanka who emigrated to Canada where he now lives. There is a wistfulness about the telling as if the author remembers his young days longing to return to that time of innocence (or as the author puts it:  “naked with innocence”) while standing on the precipice of maturity.  He begins to discover basic truths:  “What is interesting and important happens where there is no power.  Nothing much of lasting value ever happens at the head table, held together by familiar rhetoric.” When I come across beautiful passages in any book I am compelled to read them aloud and hear the beauty and rhythm of the words. So many times when reading this book I stopped, reread the passage, and then read it aloud again. Bravo Michael Ondaatje.

Recommended by: Karen, Town Librarian

A second look:  When on a ship voyage, the most desirable place to be seated for dinners is the Captain’s Table. The most socially connected sit there. Those considered to be the least significant are seated at table # 76 –the “cat’s table”– as far away both physically and socially as one can be seated from the Captain. In 1950, this is precisely where 11 year old Michael is seated: aboard the Oronsay, traveling from Sri Lanka to London to be reunited with his mother. Michael, who is the novel’s  arrator, though by himself, is quick to make friends with two boys making the same voyage: asthmatic Ramadhin and the rambunctious trouble-maker, Cassius.

For 21 days, unfettered for the most part by adult authority, daring and unsupervised, they explore the ship and roam the decks looking seeking adventure, hiding in  lifeboats to spy on the guests, and strive to learn the secrets of others, like the shackeled prisoner who is escorted at night on the deck. The boys quickly realize that their insignificance means they are “invisible to officials such as the purser and
the head steward, and the captain.”

“Sleep is a prison for a boy  who has friends to meet…We could not wait to continue exploring this universe.” One adventure, in particular, took place on a wild rainy night
with dangerous and heaving waves — when Cassious and Michael know they must
observe and experience a “catastrophe” first hand (the storm) , so they have Ramadhin strap them to the deck and nearly drown!

Each day, the boys rejoin their interesting and eccentric adult dinner companions, also seated at the “cat’s table”. Each person at the cat’s table had interesting reasons for being on board, even if it was unspoken or, as yet, undiscovered by the boys.

“…those at the Captain’s Table were constantly toasting one another’s significance. That was a small lesson I learned on the journey. What is interesting and important happens mostly in secret, in places where there is no power.”

Later in the book, Michael realizes that for years he never thought about that voyage until he reaches a point in his life where he realizes the impact that the trip had on him and his ship-board friends.

I would recommend this book to anybody! But, if you really enjoy stories about boys, such as Boy’s Life, by Robert McCammon, or some of Stephen King’s fiction that centers on the life of boys, this is the book for you.

Recommended by: Susan Z, Reference Librarian

Who will like this book: Those who enjoy reading literature, especially those books that take you to far-away places. Those who aren’t intimidated by a murky reality or magical realism.

If you like this, try this: The Sense of an Ending, by Julian Barnes, which also offers a multi-layered account of memories

If this looks like a book you’d like to read, visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog to place a hold or check availability!

Title: Wingshooters

Author:  Nina Revoyr

Publisher: Akashic Books, 2011

Review/Summary: “Wingshooters” is grim reminder that hatred and bigotry have no place in a civilized world.

Michelle LeBeau, the nine year old daughter of a white American father and Japanese mother, has come to live with her American grandparents in Deerhorn, Wisconsin. It’s the early 1970’s and Deerhorn has remained virtually unchanged for the past 30 years. Michelle, or “Mike”, as her grandfather likes to call her, is the first non-Caucasian person many residents have ever seen. No one is very happy that she has come to live in their town. Mike’s grandfather, Charlie, who is well respected in town, is torn between his love for his granddaughter and the shame of his son’s marriage. Michelle is tormented and bullied by her schoolmates but finds comfort spending time outside with her dog Brett. When an African American couple comes to live and work in town, Michelle sees just how ignorant, bigoted and hateful her neighbors, and her grandfather, really are.

This is a powerful, brutal and disturbing story that will leave you shaking your head at the senseless violence and utter disregard for life portrayed within its pages. A great choice for book clubs, this wonderfully written novel will linger in your thoughts well after the last page is turned.

Who will like this book?: Someone who is not afraid to read about the realistically devastating effects of racism.  Someone looking for a more literary read, focused on complex family bonds and historical events.
If you like this, try this: If you’re looking for more books dealing with racism in general, check out “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, or “A River Runs Through it”, a short story by Norman Maclean.  If you’re more interested in the Japanese American historical fiction, try “Snow Falling on Cedars” by David Guterson or “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” by Jamie Ford. Nina Revoyr also has a few other books, titled “Necessary Hunger” and “Southland”.

Recommended by: Sue B, circulation coordinator

If this looks like something you’d like to read, visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog where you can check if its available and place a hold!

Title: The Snow Child

Author:  Eowyn Ivey

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company, February 2012

Review/Summary: The year is 1920 and homesteaders Jack and Mabel are struggling to make a new life in Wolverine, Alaska. It’s been 10 years since their only child was stillborn but their attempt to leave the pain behind them has failed. Two years ago, at Mabel’s urging, the couple fled the constant reminders of their loss and Mabel’s overwhelming feelings of failure. Farming in Alaska, however, turned out to be more difficult than the brochures let on. Jack and Mabel’s isolation from the world has slowly developed into their emotional isolation from each other. Now, as both near 50, they must make a decision. Do they stay or do they go?

   In a rare moment of playfulness, during the first snowfall of the season, Jack and Mabel see the beauty of the land and the reason they so wanted to stay. The two build a small snow child, a girl with yellow grass for hair and adorned with a scarf, mittens, and wild cranberry juice to redden her lips. The next morning, Jack thinks he sees a small girl running through the woods and soon discovers that all that is left of their snow child is a small pile of snow. Could this child in the woods really be their snow child come to life, just like the snow maiden in one of Mabel’s favorite childhood fairy tales?

   “The Snow Child” is an enchanting story of hope, loss, and love. Rich in details of the Alaskan wilderness and with characters so fully imagined, you will feel as if you are right there with Mabel and Jack, watching as their story unfolds. This debut novel should be on everyone’s “to read” list.

Who will like this?: Fans of modern-day fairy tales, anyone looking to get lost in the dreamy Alaskan wilderness for a few hours.  Fans of magical realism.

If you like this, try this: The original “Snow Child” fairy tale. If you’re interested in the Alaskan wilderness, try “Into the Wild” (Krakauer) or “Call of the Wild” (London).  If you’re looking for more modern fairy tales, try “The Book of Lost Things” (Connolly).  For younger readers, try “The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairy Land in a Ship of her own Making” (Valente) or “Tale Dark and Grimm” (Gidwitz).

Recommended by: Sue, Circulation Coordinator

If this looks like a book you’d enjoy reading, visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog to see if it’s available and/or place a hold!

Title: The Convent

Author:  Panos Karnezis

Publisher: Norton, November 2010

Summary: The setting for this new novel by Panos Karnezis is a 16^th century nunnery in the Spanish Sierra. There are only 6 nuns living at Our Lady of Mercy in the early 1920’s when a newborn baby is left on the steps of the convent. Of the six, only two are eager to keep the baby. The Mother Superior, Sister Maria Ines, believes the baby is God’s way of letting her know that her past sins have been forgiven and that his arrival on their doorstep is a miracle. Sister Beatriz is happy to help Sister Maria Ines with the baby in any way she can. The Mother Superior’s maternal instincts kick into high gear but are accompanied by an increasing paranoia. She begins to see almost everyone and everything as a threat to the precious child she has named Renato. It doesn’t help that one of the nuns, Sister Ana, believes the baby was sent by Satan himself. Sister Ana’s suspicions are reinforced as she witnesses the changes in the Mother Superior’s behavior. The mystery of the baby’s parentage and his fate are revealed slowly and deliberately in this sparse novel.

The main character in this novel is certainly Sister Maria Ines. There is very little said about most of the other characters in this story, including the baby. Her obsessive love for the baby, caused by her desperate need to be forgiven, becomes a character of its own. Though the ending doesn’t come as much of a surprise, it is heartbreaking none the less. This is a story of promises made and promises broken, and the price paid for both.

Who will like this book? Readers of historical fiction.

Recommended by: Sue, Circulation Coordinator

Title: The Language of Trees

Author:  Ilie Ruby

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, July 2010

Summary: Ilie Ruby’s debut novel opens with a canoeing accident in the waters of the Canandaigua Lake. The three small Ellis children have stolen a canoe and are making their way out to Squaw Island, a few miles away. When a storm springs up, the wind and waves prove to be too much for the children; only two will survive the storm. Twelve years later, the tragedy continues to haunt the residents of Canandaigua figuratively and literally.

Grant Shongo has returned to his family’s cabin on the lake. His wife Susanna left him a year ago and Grant has come back to heal. Back to the place his Seneca ancestors called The Chosen Spot, where the earth split open and his people emerged. Grant isn’t the only one who has been drawn back to Canandaigua. Echo, his first love, has returned from Boston, fearing that Joseph, the man who raised her, is in far worse health than he has let on.

The reunion of Grant and Echo is overshadowed by the disappearance of Melanie Ellis. Melanie has led a troubled life since that night twelve years ago, when she and her brother and sister were caught in the storm so far from shore. Now she is gone without a trace, leaving behind her boyfriend and young child. Some believe she is on yet another binge, but others are not convinced. Either way, her family is determined to find her. It is a perfect storm of sorts, these events that are unfolding. Events that will reveal secrets long kept hidden, a lifetime of secrets and mistakes “that catch up with a person in a span of a few hours”.

This is a great novel with endearing characters that will touch your heart. This is not a novel about regret; instead it is a story of accepting choices made and moving on without regret. It is a story that demonstrates that “not everything is meant to happen. Some things should stay as they are, just like that, full of possibility. It’s wanting them that gives you something to hope for, a reason to get up in the morning and put on a fancy dress”. I loved this novel and its message.

Who will like this book? Everyone, especially those who like literary fiction.

Recommended by: Sue, Circulation Coordinator

Title: The Lonely Polygamist

Author: Brady Udall

Publisher: W.W. Norton, May 2010

Summary: Golden Richards is in a bit of a pickle. With four wives, 28 children and a failing construction business, he doesn’t see how he can lead his struggling brood through the next few months, let alone into the glory of eternal life. Heartbroken over the loss of a beloved daughter, he finds himself drifting further away from the responsibilities of life at home, staying at his distant job site for longer and longer stretches of time. Each day seems to bring a new challenge that  tests Golden’s faith – the only work he can find is building a brothel in the Nevada desert and the unexpected temptation he finds there is surprising. Devastated and desolate, Golden teeters on the edge of the abyss, all the while knowing that if he fails he will drag his immense family with him.

Set in the 1980s, this funny, heart-wrenching story, told in the voices of Golden, questioning newest wife Trish, rambunctious young son Rusty (a boy nicknamed ‘The Family Terrorist’) and the Richards’ house itself will  delight the fans of Udall’s first book The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint. It is a surprising, beautifully written story about reconciliation with your hopes, dreams, family, and place in the wider world.

Who will like this book?: This is a great book for all fans of family fiction, and serious literary readers. Anyone looking  for a long, engrossing book to savor this summer.

If you like this, try this: Udall’s debut, The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint. The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff.

Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian