There is so much normal life in this book, and I think that is why I enjoyed it so much. Hay’s does a superb job of writing about the minutia, the daily routines and motherly worries! As Hay writes about how Lucy “looses-it” and needs a mini-vacation; I thought to myself and smiled “been there!”

The Shoe on the Roof by Will Ferguson was funny and thought provoking; the story really surprised me. It’s certainly not comparable to anything I’ve read recently. The Shoe on the Roof is unquestionably this year’s stand out novel.

I know I keep on saying this anytime I read YA, but where were these amazing stories when I was growing up? Now, if I was still in high school (thankfully I’m not) and had to write a book report I’d pick Strange Fire. Wallach packs friendship, family, betrayal, a dusting of romance/lust but more importantly, a very strong religion vs science theme within the pages of Strange Fire.

Seven Fallen Feathers is the most powerful, thought provoking, soul crushing book I’ve read this year and every Canadian should read it.

Jennifer Egan must have done quite a bit of research for Manhattan Beach, the little details of day to day life, the slang and the different views people had at the time gave me the impression of being right alongside these characters. I couldn’t help feel that everything, everyone was on a tipping point.

When I met Marion, the first thing I felt for this bullied little soul was pity, I liked her. I wanted to rescue her out of the pages. As for the rest of Marion’s family – I didn’t enjoy meeting them. I can’t imagine growing up without affection and love. It just tore me apart to read how Marion ended up after her parents died – surrounded by hording. Then, things took a turn.

I read the Deer Life advanced copy by Ron Sexsmith some time ago and have been singing its praises ever since. There is really something quite enchanting about what Ron has done with this little nugget. It’s a brilliant fairy tale that begs to be read.

I’d like to be the cool mom who can recommend a book to their children that they actually enjoy. Therefore, I read a good number of YA and middle grade novels. A little while ago, I read the Best Mistake Mystery and fell in love with it. Find out why I loved the second book in this series….

Oh Honey points the finger at what happens when things go unchecked. It brings into focus the faults in our country’s rehabilitation process and is a definite reminder that there are too many Janes out there that need help.