Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Julie Y. (naboo) - Reviews

1 to 20 of 23 - Page:
At First Sight
At First Sight
Author: Nicholas Sparks
Book Type: Hardcover
  • Currently 3.9/5 Stars.
 502
Review Date: 10/27/2006


Another great book by Nicholas Sparks! I really like how Sparks described the relationship between Lexie and Jeremy! It was very believable!


Barefoot
Barefoot
Author: Elin Hilderbrand
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
  • Currently 3.8/5 Stars.
 160
Review Date: 11/23/2024


Another great book from my favorite author!

Three women, each one burdened with a different problem, decide to spend the summer in Nantucket. Vicki recently discovered lung cancer, is mother to Blaine, four years old, and Porter, a seven month old baby. Brenda, Vicki's younger sister, an English Professor, newly fired from her teaching position for sleeping with one of her students. Additionally, charged with vandalizing an original Jackson Pollock. Melanie, Vicki's friend, her husband, Peter, left her for a younger woman. Moreover, she just found out she is pregnant but has not told Peter. 

Brenda originally agreed to babysit Vicki's children while she deals with the awful side effects of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, soon she finds out that attempting to supervise little boys while writing a script becomes a difficult task, so she decides to hire a part-time babysitter.

At this point, I am starting to get frustrated with Melanie because she is available to help with Vicki's kids, but her excuse is, she is suffering from terrible morning sickness and yearning over Peter. 

Therefore, Brenda hires Josh, a young college student whom she meets at the hospital where Vicki is receiving her chemotherapy treatment. As predicted, Josh and Vicki end up having a summer affair. 

Finally, even though the ending is not surprising, it is an easy, quick, enjoyable book, and I am looking forward to reading more by this author. 


Barnes and Noble Basics Migraines (Barnes & Noble Basics)
Barnes and Noble Basics Migraines (Barnes & Noble Basics)
Author: Joan Raymond
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.3/5 Stars.
 4
Review Date: 8/27/2009


I learned alot about migraine prevention. The book is full of great information and extremely easy to read and understand.


Beartown (Beartown, Bk 1)
Beartown (Beartown, Bk 1)
Author: Fredrik Backman, Neil Smith (Translator)
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 4.1/5 Stars.
 48
Review Date: 11/29/2020


I am a big fan of this author and I loved that the storyline is totally different from the previous books he has written. Finally, what a wonderfully surprising ending!


The Best Christmas Ever
The Best Christmas Ever
Author: Sylvia Green, Chris Chapman (Illustrator)
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 4/5 Stars.
 12
Review Date: 11/21/2024


What a delightful tale about Puss in Boots, a black cat with all white feet, journey back home to his human, Jenni, a second-grader!

Jenni and her family have just moved into a new house located in the city. Unfortunately, Puss escapes and attempts to find his way home to their old house in the country. While on his adventure, Puss encounters many different animals and humans such as a homeless young man, a friendly fox, and an affectionate white cat. 

Meanwhile, Jenni and her parents are searching the neighborhood for Puss and putting up flyers. Some of the neighbors that Jenni meets along the way are Mrs. Baxter, who feeds the wildlife, Alice, a younger girl who owns a rabbit, and Mark, who owns a black cat named Saskia. 

Jenni and Puss finally reunite on Christmas Eve!


Big Sexy Love: A laugh out loud funny romantic comedy
Big Sexy Love: A laugh out loud funny romantic comedy
Author: Kirsty Greenwood
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.6/5 Stars.
 4
Review Date: 11/30/2024


This is the first book I have read by this author, and I thought it was hilarious!

Olive Brewster is twenty-seven years old, works as a fishmonger in Manchester Indian Market, and lives with her brother  Alex and his girlfriend Donna (who reminds me of a typical "Karen").

Birdie Lively, originally from New York is Olive's best friend. Unfortunately, she has lupus and the disease is causing her kidneys' to shutdown. Her dying wish is for Olive to fly out to New York and give Chuck Allen a written letter because he was her Big Sexy Love even though he broke her heart. 

Since Olive has never been on an airplane before, she is absolutely terrified of flying. As a result, she drinks quite a bit of alcohol before and during the flight. Consequently, she needs assistance walking to the lavatory thus, she attempts to get the attention of the flight attendant by pressing the call button to no avail. Therefore, she requests the support, from the rude American tv writer, Seth Harmon, who happens to sit across from her in first class. Regrettably, he misunderstands her appeal for help and believes she wants to join the "mile high club". Alas, she has waited too long and informs him that he needs to turn around and cover his ears because she needs "to piddle" really bad. Subsequently, Olive is humiliated and hopes that once the plane lands that she will never see Seth ever again. 

Sadly, Olive's adventures in New York become disastrous at best. For example, she follows a runner into Gramercy Park in order to hide behind a tree so she could, fix her tights. Woefully, another "Karen" sees her and demands to know where her key is and immediately calls the police to report a pervert touching herself. Olive panics and grabs the key from around her neck and quickly leaves the park. The next day, Olive watches a skit from Sunday Night Live, "Watch Me Piddle!" written by Seth imitating Olive in the plane toilet. 

Olive is humiliated by the comedy sketch but hopes that no one in New York recognizes when lo and behold as she is attempting to disguise herself, she runs into Seth. Hence, Olive is absolutely livid with him and chews him out. Seth feels bad and promises to help her find the elusive Chuck Allen. During the search, both Olive and Seth fall in love. 

I loved this story and will be looking forward to reading more books by this author. 


A Christmas Gift
A Christmas Gift
Author: Glendon Swarthout, Myles Sprinzen (Illustrator)
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 4.1/5 Stars.
 8
Review Date: 11/25/2024


What a beautiful, heartwarming Christmas story about family, love, and tradition. 

During the depression, James' father had unfortunately lost his job in Philadelphia. Therefore, his parents sends him to live with his mother's parents on their farm in Michigan. 

On Christmas Eve, James receives two Christmas presents - a walnut-handled pocket knife from his grandfather and a hand-knitted scarf from his grandmother. Afterwards, Ella, James' grandmother, plays Christmas songs on the melodeon organ. Thereafter, Ella tells Will, James' grandfather, that they should give the melodeon to the church for Christmas since she does not play it anymore because of her arthritis. Unfortunately, Ella insists that the melodeon be delivered to the church that night despite the severe snowstorm. 

With some help from Christmas magic, Will and James successfully transport the melodeon to the church just in time for Christmas morning!


Christmas Memories
Christmas Memories
Author: Terry Meeuwsen (Editor)
Book Type: Hardcover
  • Currently 3.8/5 Stars.
 4
Review Date: 11/30/2024


This book is a collection of Christmas memories and traditions from many amazing women. The author has compiled all the stories into three sections: 

Part One - The Memories of Christmas Past

Part Two - The Memories of Christmas Present

Part Three - Creating the Memories of Christmas Future 

Part One is definitely my most-liked section in the entire book, while Part Three is my least liked section. 

Here are a few of my favorites:

"Another Kind of Christmas" by Naomi Judd - Describing the year that Naomi, Larry (her husband), Wynonna, and Ashley decide to "take Christmas back from the media". 

"The Simple Pleasures of Christmas" by Jeanie Matthews Price - Recounting the present her mother gave to the entire family because of the sincerity and love that it symbolized. 

"Our Christmas Crèches" by Terry Meeuwsen - I giggled over Terry's son J.P. telling his mother not to forget "those three wise guys".  Additionally, I chuckled over the rearranging of the manger scene by her children. For example, the "three wise guys being placed on the roof and the sheep standing on their heads".


Cold Clay (Shady Hollow, Bk 2)
Cold Clay (Shady Hollow, Bk 2)
Author: Juneau Black
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.7/5 Stars.
 3
Review Date: 11/30/2024


After reading Shady Hollow, I couldn't wait to read the next book in the series. Even though this novel wasn't quite as good as the previous one, I still enjoyed this tale of the woodland creatures.

Julia Elkin, wife of Joe Elkin, supposedly walked out on Joe over ten years ago, but then her bones are accidentally discovered at Cold Clay Orchards. Both Vera Vixen and Deputy Orville Braun together investigate who is behind this murder.

My favorite creatures in this story are:

Vera Vixen - The foxy reporter for the Shady Hollow Herald.

Deputy Orville Braun - The hard-working large brown bear.

Lenore Lee - A dark-as-night raven who owns Nevermore Books, the town's bookshop.

Joe Elkin - The genial giant of a moose who owns Joe's Mug, the town coffee shop.

Esmeralda von Beaverpelt - The hardworking waitress at Joe's Mug.


Empire Falls
Empire Falls
Author: Richard Russo
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.8/5 Stars.
 641
Review Date: 1/28/2007
Helpful Score: 1


Great book! Better than the HBO miniseries!


Hugs from Heaven: Celebrating Friendship: Sayings, Scriptures, and Stories from the Bible Revealing God's Love (Hugs from Heaven)
Review Date: 12/11/2024


I picked up this book at a used bookstore. 

I enjoyed the bible scriptures, the inspirational messages, and the uplifting quotations. But the fabricated accounts based on the iconic stories in the Bible were not that great. 

Here are two of my favorite quotes:

"You are...infinitely dear to the Father, unspeakably precious to Him.  You are never, for one second, alone." -- Norma Dowty

"Give for the joy of giving -- if you only "give to get" you are not giving, you are trading" -- Mary C. Crowley 


I Can Has Cheezburger?: A LOLcat Colleckshun
I Can Has Cheezburger?: A LOLcat Colleckshun
Author: Professor Happycat, icanhascheezburger.com
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.9/5 Stars.
 35
Review Date: 8/27/2009
Helpful Score: 1


Great book! The pictures and the captions are hilarious!


I Will Do Better: A Father?s Memoir of Heartbreak, Parenting, and Love
Review Date: 11/21/2024


Charles Bock' wife Diana loses her battle with leukemia when their daughter, Lily, is only three years old.  He proceeds to describe the first two years of raising Lily as a single father while mourning the loss of his wife. 

I loved the raw honesty the author used in telling his story. Such as struggling to pay his wife's medical bills, his sessions with his therapist, and attempting to build a healthy relationship with his daughter. 


Lessons in Chemistry
Lessons in Chemistry
Author: Bonnie Garmus
Book Type: Hardcover
  • Currently 4.2/5 Stars.
 111
Review Date: 11/21/2024


I read this book for my book club and absolutely loved it!

Back in 1950, Elizabeth Zott is sexually assaulted by Dr Meyers, her advisor at UCLA. As a result, she is kicked out of the doctoral program and ends up working at Hastings Research Institute. While at Hastings, working as a chemist, Elizabeth meets Calvin Evans in his private laboratory whilst borrowing beakers. After some time, the two of them fall in love and move in together. Unfortunately, Calvin dies in a tragic accident just as he is walking their dog, Six-Thirty. Soon after, Elizabeth discovers that she is pregnant and Hastings fires her. Miss Frask, secretary from Personnel, realizes that she is with child and informs her that she is in violation of the code of conduct. 

Following her dismissal from Hastings, Elizabeth decides to transform her kitchen into a laboratory. During this time, Dr Boryweitz, her former employer, requires her assistance in deciphering test results thus, she begins charging for her time and expertise. Shortly after the birth of Madeline, Elizabeth discovers how overwhelming it is to be a single working mother and, for the first time, meets her neighbor, Harriet Sloane. Harriet notices how overwhelmed and exhausted Elizabeth is and tells her to call her anytime she needs her. Additionally, Harriet tells Elizabeth to "take a moment for herself, everyday".

When Madeline is four years old, Elizabeth elects to send her to kindergarten since she is bigger than other five-year-olds and a better reader. Simultaneously, she accepts her old Chemist position back at Hastings. Regrettably, her former employer pulls the old "bait and switch" and, gives her the underemployed position of Lab Tech instead. Madeline is struggling to make friends hence, she gives Amanda, a fellow student, her lunch in exchange for her friendship. Elizabeth notices that her daughter is not eating her lunch therefore, she goes to the television studio to talk to Walter Pine regarding the "quid pro quo" that his daughter has with Madeline. Consequently, she is offered the position of television host for the daily show "Supper at Six" about cooking a nutritious dinner using chemistry. 

My favorite quote in the book is "Children, set the table. Your mother needs a moment to herself."  Elizabeth's signature catchphrase that she uses at the end of every show. 


Open: Get Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime
Open: Get Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime
Author: David Gregory
Book Type: Hardcover
  • Currently 5/5 Stars.
 1
Review Date: 11/15/2024


This is the third book I have read by this author.

Emily, is recovering from a painful breakup, dealing with a stagnating career, and struggling with her relationship with God.

Subsequently, Emily receives a handwritten card without a return address. On the back of the card there is one word in fancy lettering "Open". Inside the envelope contains a handwritten note "For a real adventure with Jesus, go thru the nearest open door."
Emily decides to open the pantry door and step inside. Next thing she knows she is sitting in a boat during a storm on the Sea of Galilee. Emily witnesses firsthand Jesus saving his disciples from drowning.
Jesus then continues to help Emily restore her relationship with God through personal experiences with notable events of the Gospels. For example, the woman at the well, Mary anointing Jesus's feet with perfume, and the resurrection of Jesus.
I loved the idea of seeing and living the significant episodes of the Christian doctrine. Additionally, I enjoyed how the entire book helped interpret Christ's teachings in a very uncomplicated fashion.


Pet Friendly
Pet Friendly
Author: Sue Pethick
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.8/5 Stars.
 10
Review Date: 11/15/2024


I picked up this book from my local used bookstore and what a cute, lighthearted story.

Uncle Bertie, a clown entertainer for birthday parties, dies and his nephew, Todd Dwyer, ends up inheriting Archie, a small white terrier mutt. Unfortunately, Todd's decides to surprise Gwen, his girlfriend, with Archie and she is furious and makes him rehome the dog. Thus, Todd is forced to give Archie to Claire, his sister. Unfortunately, while driving to Claire's house, Archie escapes. Additionally, during his time hiking in the woods searching for Archie, Todd discovers the Spirit Inn.

Emma Carlisle inherits the quaint hotel from her grandmother. Furthermore, both Todd and Claire spent childhood summers as a vacationing at the charming resort and, as a result, become close friends with Emma. Moreover, Todd and Emma renew their friendship (and possibly even more).

I would recommend this book to all dog lovers and anyone looking for a heartwarming, quick read.


Picture Perfect
Picture Perfect
Author: Jodi Picoult
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 3.8/5 Stars.
 767
Review Date: 10/30/2019


Well written book about wife abuse. Even though difficult to read at times the author did a great job dealing with a tough topic.


Prairie Man: My Little House Life & Beyond
Prairie Man: My Little House Life & Beyond
Author: Dean Butler
Book Type: Hardcover
  • Currently 5/5 Stars.
 1
Review Date: 11/30/2024


I was pretty excited about winning this book in a Goodreads giveaway contest since I am a beloved fan of Little House on the Prairie. In addition, I remember the controversy surrounding the eight year age difference Dean and Melissa Sue Gilbert, which I thought was ironic since in real-life Almanzo Wilder was ten years older than Laura Wilder.

Furthermore, I remember watching the movie Forever based on the Judy Blume novel by the same name and I did not realize that Dean played the part of Michael Wagner opposite Stephanie Zimbalist who played the part of Katharine Danziger. Moreover, I did not know that Dean played Hank Summers, the father of Buffy in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. 

Finally, I thought it was very interesting that Dean became a producer and that his last acting gig was in 2008. 

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Little House on the Prairie and especially fascinated with the actors from that popular family, historical, drama from the 70s and 80s. 


Race Me in a Lobster Suit: Absurd Internet Ads and the Real Conversations that Followed
Review Date: 11/21/2024


A New York City copywriter posts fake, outlandish job advertisements on Craigslist. She comprises the most amusing ones (including the email dialogue). 

I have to be honest, I was absolutely impressed with her creativity and loved the responses, especially the ones from those willing to participate. 

Here is one of my absolute favorites:

"Need a date for company holiday party" - Paul answers her ad, and she asks him to act as her fiance, who happens to be a cardiothoracic surgeon with a Judo black belt. Additionally, speaks four languages and is allergic to gluten. Finally, Ryan Gosling is his third cousin, and he proposed to her at the top of Mount Killamajaro. 


Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone
Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone
Author: Phaedra Patrick
Book Type: Paperback
  • Currently 2.5/5 Stars.
 3
Review Date: 11/23/2024


This is the second book I have read by this author, and I thought it was just as heartwarming as her previous novel, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper. 

Benedict Stone is separated from his wife, Estelle, then at one am he hears someone banging on the front door, so he immediately opens the door to find Gemma, his American niece. She tells her uncle that she is here for an adventure and that her father, Charlie (Benedict's younger brother), gave her permission to fly to the village of Noon Sun (even though she is only sixteen years old).

Since Benedict doesn't know what to do with his niece and he is having difficulty contacting his brother he invites her to be his help him out at his jewelry shop while his assistant, Cecil, recovers from surgery. 

Gemma has in her possession, the bag of gemstones that Benedict had given to his brother before leaving for America. She asks Uncle Ben about the gemstones, he shows her the pieces of jewelry he made when he was younger as well as his father's journal, Joseph Stone's Book of Gemstones and Crystals. 

Gemma begins reading the diary and adds her own notes to the entries. In addition, she starts passing out stones to the people in the village depending on their needs. For example, she gives Estelle a rose quartz for "love, peace, emotion and appreciation". 

Furthermore, Gemma makes it her mission to reunite both Benedict and Gemma. 

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a lighthearted, enjoyable book about the importance of family and living in a close-knit community


1 to 20 of 23 - Page: