Genius Under the Table
Eugene Yelchin’s follow up book from his “Breaking Stalin’s Nose” is a superb, well-written story of life growing up behind the Iron Curtain. His family is written in a humorous and poignant way as they try to help their children succeed under Communism. Yelchin does an excellent job of showing this family love, fight, and struggle to survive. This is a great book for the classroom and adults alike.
Bluebird
Book Description: In 1946, Eva leaves behind the rubble of Berlin for the streets of New York City, stepping from the fiery aftermath of one war into another, far colder one, where power is more important than principles, and lies are more plentiful than the truth. Eva holds the key to a deadly secret: Project Bluebird — a horrific experiment of the concentration camps, capable of tipping the balance of world power. Both the Americans and the Soviets want Bluebird, and it is something that neither should ever be allowed to possess.
This book is going to take off because it is sharp, quick, and tense read of Eva’s search for truth. I devoured it quickly because I couldn’t put it down. This is so well done for a YA book, and I would recommend for 12+/Mature readers.
The Restaurant by Pamela Kelly is a light beach read about three sisters brought together by a restaurant owned by their Grandmother. It’s a great book for the beach, and it moves along in a satisfying plot. The descriptions of the food are quite tantalizing.
Our Italian Summer
From the book description: Workaholic, career-obsessed Francesca is fiercely independent and successful in all areas of her life except one: family. She struggles to make time for her relationship with her teenage daughter, Allegra, and the two have become practically strangers to each other. When Allegra hangs out with a new crowd and is arrested for drug possession, Francesca gives in to her mother’s wish that they take one epic summer vacation to trace their family roots in Italy. She just never expected to face a choice that might change the course of her life. . .
This is a sweet beach read book about women, their relationships, and mending their lives. It’s easy, easy, and it takes the reader to Italy.