Saturday, May 31, 2008

Jimmy's Stars

Jimmy's Stars by Mary Ann Rodman
In 1943, eleven-year-old Ellie is her brother Jimmy's "best girl," and when he leaves Pittsburgh just before Thanksgiving to fight in World War II, he promises he will return, asks her to leave the Christmas tree up until he does, and reminds her to "let the joy out."
Peace: A Novel by Richard Bausch
Set in Italy, 1944, this truly original and inventive work follows the travails of a trio of three American soldiers sent on a reconnaissance mission under the guidance of a 70-year-old man. Throughout this propulsive novel, readers will find themselves engrossed in the subtle action of the soldiers as they rise to new heights in order to complete their mission, despite the treacherous terrain and retaliation from opposing forces who remain unseen. Told in minimalist language and with a profuse imagination, "Peace" ruminates brilliantly on human frailty and mercy. This is an adult novel.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Ellie's intense outpouring of grief is masterfully portrayed, and Rodman's painstaking attention to historical detail creates a vividly realized sense of time and place. Readers will find this emotionally gripping story of love and loss profoundly moving.