Ah, yes, this is a BOOK BLOG, isn't it? Where the writer is supposed to share her views about books she has read. I remember now...
The book I've read most recently is a collection of short stories for young adults (and apparently at least one middle-aged adult, me) entitled "Something to Hang On To" by Canadian author Beverley Brenna.
Although short stories aren't usually what I gravitate to (they're so short!) I did enjoy these. In particular, I was moved by the story "Gift of the Old Wives", a retelling of a Cree legend. Bev did a masterful job of bringing the legend alive.
There are stories for almost any taste (no vampires, though!). Some of the characters have physical, mental or emotional challenges (Bev has been a special education teacher and consultant, so knows first-hand the sort of struggles such kids have). Some of the stories are just plain funny (she has a quirky sense of humor), as the story about a kid getting his big toe stuck in a vacuum cleaner (based on a true life story of Bev doing just that -- the moral of that is Never Vacuum with Bare Feet). Another story that grew out of real life experience was one of a first parachute jump. What I found missing from that story was the fear experienced by the person back home who knew the first jump was happening that day and was sworn to secrecy (that person still remembers the relief when Bev walked in the door, safe and sound, at the end of the day...)
I have to admit that one of my favorite parts of the book was the "Author's Notes" at the end of the book. In it, her sense of humor has free rein, and the notes are just delightful!
The book has been available in Canada for a few months, and will be available in the U.S. soon. Check it out!
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