Silver Sparrow

I just finished Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones. It’s the story of a man with two wives. The first half of the story is told from the perspective of Dana, the daughter whom he told “You are a secret.” She and her mother know about his other family. Her mother says “knowledge is power.” The two of them keep tabs on all that goes on in the lives of the other family. You can sympathize with the feeling of being second best.

The second half of the book is told from Chaurisse’s perspective. She’s the acknowledged daughter. She and her mother know nothing about the other family. Or, perhaps the mother has some idea, but denies it. You learn the beginnings of this family and what binds them together and you like them.

So, what happens when the girls become friends? When the hidden family shows itself? It’s complicated and the author doesn’t try to offer a simple, tied-up ending. I found it to be a very satisfying read.

Feminist Writings

Feeling guilty about some of the  fluffier books I read last year, I Googled ‘best feminist books’. Sister Outsider was on the list. Audre Lourde (1934 – 1992), in her own words, was a "black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet." She writes about all these things and more in this powerful and readable collection of 15 essays and speeches mostly from the 1970s and 80s. Her thoughts on racism stood out for me and made me wonder how far, really, have we come?

I think I did it!

I hope I did the set up correctly as I look forward to participating in this blog. It is a new experience for me, but one I look forward to. Happy Reading!

I think I'm finally a blog contributor... we'll see!

Thank you!

Thank you for welcoming me to your group! I think I will really enjoy getting to know you and to "expanding my literary horizons!"

Holiday Cards

The card exchange was delightful, as usual. Here are some (most) of them in photos. I apologize for the quality - the lighting makes it difficult to get a good, quick shot. I also don't remember who the owner and/or who the giver are on all of these.

I believe this was Susan's card, which without our glasses, looked like it was covered with bunnies. Turns out they're Santas:

Here is my card from Susan. Martinis, poetry, and a word search. What's not to love?

This is Debbie's card, which she thought was from Kathy - because of the frog. Supposed to be FOG.

This is the Bookwoman doll and poem I gave to Jackie.

Debbie created a holiday party popper - which contained the requisite hat, joke, and prize. Wow! Here's Kathy modeling the hat.

Finally, Judy did lots of sleuthing to figure out that Jackie put together a puzzle of bookmarks for her.

Kathy T. got a word search and missed the final word, which was the clue "Judy." Unfortunately that photo was WAY over exposed.

I'm always amazed at our individual and collective creativity when it comes to this exchange. Thanks to everyone for  making it so much fun once again.