I have to admit…I haven’t read many Vermont authors or even those who like frequently walk right by the store. I’m asked a lot if I’ve read any of their books, which one’s my fav, etc. So I knew I better get in the swing of things and tackle one of each and go with it. So I did. Or rather have.
Bohjalian – read “Secrets of Eden.” Yea, the newest of his books. And I have to admit…I bought it new. From his website. There was some contest on his Facebook page and next thing I knew I had my credit card out and bought it. Wow, I went against all my principles to get into that contest. Worse thing, I didn’t win. I don’t even remember what I would have won. And it wasn’t even autographed. Pooh! But I liked the book. In fact, I couldn’t put it down. I used it to get Twain out of my head. Not sure it was a good substitution but it worked. Great ending. There is good in the world. At least in Bohjalian’s mind and well, I needed it then. Now some customers say that they find Bohjalian hard to read. Chunky writing, according to one woman. I don’t know what that means but each their own.
Parini – I finished “The Last Station” and then a customer told me that Parini’s first novel was the best. That would be “The Patch Boys.” Hmm, I really liked them both. I escape into the books when I enjoy them and I did with both. I’ve got “Bay of Arrows” staring at me from the VT bookcase which might be my next read. Well, after Melville’s “Moby Dick” and a Paul Bowles which I’m currently reading and then was given Kate Morton’s, “The Distant Hours.” But I see Julia Alvarez’s “Saving the World” and Bohjalin’s “Water Witches” staring at me. And Alvarez actually does come in and shop here so the least I can do is read one of hers. So I will. In fact, I just reached over to Collections and took down, “How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents – first edition.
