fuzzi's C-note Challenge in 2020!

Like a bad penny, I'm back again!

My challenge is a C-note, as in a Benjamin, as in a number of ONE HUNDRED books read this year!

My reading is eclectic, and I review EVERY book I read, so do stop by often.

Oh, and I don't "spoil" when I review or discuss books, so read without fear!

Here's my ticker:



And my 2020 main thread is here: fuzzi's Visions of Reading in 2020

Part 2: https://www.librarything.com/topic/321866

Hi Fuzzi.

Happy New Year - I hope you have a great 2020, with lots of marvellous books.

With best wishes

Huzzah for eclectic reading! That's always my reading life as well.

Happy New Year and looking forward to following along with your reading in 2020!

I finished my first book!


#1 Fair Blows the Wind by Louis L'Amour

Over the course of his lifetime Louis L'Amour wrote many stories, and several series about fictional families that lived in early America. One of these series is about members of the Chantry family, and this particular volume is the first.

Tatton Chantry is a pseudonym, a name taken by a young man to hide his Irish heritage from those who would kill him. He survives in Elizabethan England by his wits and grows into a soldier and trader. And on one of his voyages he finds himself marooned on a barrier island of the Carolinas.

I enjoyed the story, though the flashbacks were a little confusing at times.

#2 The Song of Hiawatha by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Not my thing, but I gave it a good try. It's fine for an epic poem.

#3 Whose Body by Dorothy Sayers

An above-average mystery set in post WWI England, with Lord Peter Wimsey playing amateur sleuth. The mystery is interesting, but the interplay of Wimsey and other characters like his valet Bunter are what makes this more than just another murder whodunit.

#4 The Heart of What Was Lost by Tad Williams

This book sat on my shelves for a couple years after its publication, not due to any disinterest, but because the author had set such a high standard with his previous trilogy Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn. So I started reading it with a little trepidation, afraid of ruining my memories of the volumes that preceded it.

And my belief that Tad Williams is a superb author was vindicated.

The Heart of What Was Lost is a short(er) follow-up to his massive masterpiece, and it's worthy: the narrative and characters draw you in from the first page, pull you close, and don't let you go until you find out what happens. There is tragedy, anguish, horrifying deeds, triumphs, yet the descriptions of battles are never more graphic than is necessary to tell the tale.

Fantastic follow-up, Mr. Williams, thank you.

#5 Guts by Gary Paulsen

This book contains a series of short chapters about experiences in the author's life that he used when he wrote Hatchet. His tales of childhood exploring the woods of northern Minnesota were fascinating. Recommended, especially for those like myself who appreciate his body of works.

Love Gary Paulson, did Hatchet and Brian’s Winter with my students last year.

>10 swimmergirl1: nice choices. I didn't discover Paulsen until 2012, and Hatchet was my first read.

#6 The Six Bullerby Children by Astrid Lindgren

Delightful introduction to the six children who live in close proximity in Bullerby. Set in Sweden sometime in the early 1900s, this short book describes the day-to-day "adventures" of the three farming families as told by 7 year old Lisa. Fun read for an adult, too. Note: some of the stories here are expanded and retold in the second book of the series.

#7 War Admiral: Thoroughbred Legends by Edward L. Bowen

I wanted to like this book. A lot. But while the subject matter was worthy of a bio, the author chose to wander about the countryside, heading down rabbit trails regarding relationships between people that were marginally associated with this champion racehorse, War Admiral, only the most successful offspring of the immortal Man o' War. It could have been so much better.

Don't overlook other books in this series, as the ones I have already read were so much better.

#8 Up a Road Slowly by Irene Hunt

There are so many "coming of age" books available, but this one is special, not surprising considering who the author is. Irene Hunt writes "real" people, with "real" issues, not the usual stereotypical characters that are so common in young adult literature. Told from a first-person point of view, we are witness to young Julie's inner issues, her desire to control situations, and eventually, to her growth into a young woman.

#9 Assault: Thoroughbred Legends by Eva Jolene Boyd

Before I started reading this book I knew very little about Assault, except he'd won the Triple Crown in the 1940s.

And there's so much more to his story.

Assault was a Texas-bred racehorse of less-than-royal pedigree. He was seriously injured as a young colt, and at one point he faced being euthanized. However, the owner, trainer, and all those involved in the care and training of Assault put in the extra work to give him a chance. And he became a champion.

It's a well-written book, with plenty to keep the interest of the non-horsey set as well as those of us who are racing fans.

#10 Soldier's Heart by Gary Paulsen

A short but sobering book about a teenager who enlists in the Union army in 1861. The battle scenes are fairly graphic, and camp life is not presented in a positive light. Worth a read.

#11 The Ferguson Rifle by Louis L'Amour

Ronan Chantry heads west to escape painful memories, and finds himself roped into a treasure hunt...all in the name of chivalry.

A little slow at the beginning, but then the pace picks up and you get immersed into a ripping good yarn.

#12 Binkle's Time to Fly by Sharmila Collins and Carolina Rabei

Bright and colorful story of a butterfly who has problems flying due to his damaged wings. His friends come to the rescue to help him become airborne. Decent, worth a read, but not worth sending to my grandchildren.

I debated about giving this three stars, which is my standard for "worth a read", but it's just not as good as most of the 3 star books I've reviewed.

#13 Woof by Spencer Quinn

Eleven year old Birdie lives with her grandmother in the bayou. As this story opens, she is given a rescue dog as a birthday present, a canine that will become her partner in solving a mystery.

The author does a good job with the genre, but this one was just a tad too cutsie for my tastes.

#14 Clouds of Witness by Dorothy Sayers

Members of Lord Peter Wimsey's family become suspect when a dead body is found at a hunting lodge in Yorkshire, and a charge of murder is quickly brought against Peter's brother, the Duke of Denver. Lots of humor and an intriguing mystery all in one book. Recommended.

#15 Breakheart Pass by Alistair MacLean

An excellent entry by MacLean, set in post-Civil War American west. I loved how the plot kept twisting and I was unable to figure out what was happening until well into the book. I'm definitely keeping this one.

#16 False Colours by Georgette Heyer

Charming tale of family, siblings, and duty. One of the better Regencies I have read, with character development, humor, and a lack of the pratfalls so common with lesser books of the genre. Not a Jane Austen, but close. Well recommended.

#17 The Giver by Lois Lowry

I don't generally care for dystopian themes, but after getting a recommendation I decided to give this story a try.

The reader is introduced to a society in which all feelings are reduced to the use of precise words, puberty is suppressed by medication, and nothing is ever upsetting. Everyone learns their role within the community, and those few who don't obey are removed, permanently.

The author handles the subject well, through the eyes of 12 year old Jonas, showing how he begins to grow beyond the boundaries of the regimented world in which he lives, learning of emotions such as love. I was horrified along with Jonas as he discovered the total lack of empathy in the people around him, a reality he'd not been aware of before he started his sessions with The Giver.

Recommended, definitely.

#18 The Secret of Hunter's Keep by Joyce Stranger

Thoughtful story of a young man whose father is a gamekeeper at a rundown estate. The son loves the wild animals that his father is sworn to protect, but also those targeted for removal: a family of foxes.

Not the best work by this favorite author of mine, but still a good tale with realistic children, adults, and relationships. Oh, and a bit of the local fauna is included as well.

#19 Dr. Fager by Steve Haskin

Back in the 1960s there was a thoroughbred racehorse that was so fast he broke long-standing records with ease. His name was Dr. Fager, and his story is eloquently told in this well-written bio by Steve Haskin.

I was too young to have been aware of this star of racing while he was active, and appreciate that someone decided to make his story available, forty years later.

Regarding the book, the author keeps the narrative moving along smartly, yet manages to include trivia that the casual racing fan might not be aware of. I really enjoyed this read and plan to keep the book for a future reread.

#20 Dragonflies by Molly McLaughlin

Nice nature book for grammar school readers and up. As an adult and dragonfly enthusiast, I was pleased that the author balanced basic and advanced information well in a volume with beautiful photographs.

#21 The Night the White Deer Died by Gary Paulsen

I found this book interesting, especially the inner thoughts of the main character. But there were some aspects of the story that just fell flat, and I was left at the end feeling as if something was missing. I reread the last chapter and still am dissatisfied.

#22 The House Without a Christmas Tree by Gail Rock

A cute story about a young girl living with her father and eccentric grandmother. Every year she begs in vain for her father to buy a Christmas tree. However Addie is now ten years old, and determined that things will be different this year.

#23 Over on the Dry Side by Louis L'Amour

An adequate story of the Old West by one of my favorite authors. The switch back and forth from first-person to third-person narration is distracting, but this book is still worth reading, especially if you like L'Amour.

#24 Strawberry Girl by Lois Lenski (Newbery Medal 1946)

I thoroughly enjoyed this well-researched story about poor farmers living in early 1900s Florida.

#25 Teddy Bear of the Year by Vikki Vansickle

This is a sweet story of an ordinary teddy bear and one magical night away from home. With cute and colorful illustrations, it should appeal to young children.

#26 Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry

The tale of a young man who is considered a coward due to his fear of the ocean, and what happens when he faces it, alone.

I loved this story in my youth and enjoyed it again as an adult.

I just finished this book. Whose Body? I found the references to the Jews to be typical of the era, but rather uncomfortable reading. Thank you for the recommendation. I hope to read more by Sayers in the future. Janice

>33 jbegab: glad you appreciated Sayers.

While reading older books I've noticed the use of words and concepts that would offend current beliefs. I consider the norms of the time, and continue reading.

#27 Unnatural Death by Dorothy L. Sayers

This is a thoroughly enjoyable book on different fronts: the characters (especially Miss Climpson), the mystery (we can guess whodunit, but the real mystery is how), and the look back at the Roaring 20s in England. A couple uses of archaic racial words can be skipped over due to context.

I also consider the times and am glad that things have changed.

#28 Caravan to Vaccares by Alistair MacLean

The Gypsies have arrived in France in time for festival, but a young man is missing, and his mother is hysterical beyond reason. Something's happening beneath the surface and people aren't who they appear to be...or in other words, this is yet another good read by Alistair MacLean!

#29 The History of England by Jane Austen

An amusing short history of recent kings of England by a highly opinionated young Jane Austen. One can see a glimpse of future writings in the ramblings displayed in this volume. Recommended for lovers of this author, and the curious.

#30 Pennsylvania Dutch Cooking

This book is full of fairly simple recipes that sound absolutely delicious. Included is a traditional recipe for Sauerbraten, which I intend to try in the future. There's also a nice introduction to the origins of the culture. I wouldn't recommend this for a beginner cook due to some of the instructions being vague as far as measurements.

>38 fuzzi:
I encountered a collection of Austin's juvenilia in the library when I was a teen. At the time I thought The History of England was amusing, but probably much better if one knew more of Shakespeare's histories than I did. I had been introduced to his tragedies in English class, and had hunted down his comedies on my own time, but the histories that Austin was riffing off of, were largely only known to me via references and quotes in other works.

I fared better with Love and Freindship(sic) since I had previously read Pamela, so I was familiar with many of the tropes she was lampooning.

>40 LShelby: I still have access to Austen's Freindship works, will definitely go back to read the rest.

#31 Seattle Slew: Racing's Only Undefeated Triple Crown Winner by Dan Mearns

Very good bio of the first undefeated Triple Crown winner. Slew was an "ugly" foal, had foot issues, and was refused by Keeneland to be offered at their yearling sales. He was sold for less than $20K to a pair of 30-something couples who wanted to own a race horse. Unorthodox owners, unorthodox trainer, unwanted horse wound up becoming a champion and the sire of champions.

I enjoyed this one a lot.

#32 Dilvish, the Damned by Roger Zelazny

I love Zelazny, but I had a hard time "getting into" Dilvish. Each chapter is another adventure (of sorts) for the title character, as he searches for the wizard who sent him to Hell for 200 years. Some of the chapters are more engaging, others not so much. Worth reading, especially for Zelazny fans, but if you've not read anything by this author, START with Nine Princes in Amber.

#33 Summerhills by D.E. Stevenson

While not as good as the first book, Amberwell, this is a well-written sequel worth reading.

We are now post-WWII, and the inhabitants of Amberwell as well as the neighbors are getting on with life and its challenges. Most of the intertwining plots are resolved by the end with no major crises. Can be read out of order but I'd recommend you read the first book prior to this one.

#34 John Henry: Racing's Grand Old Man by Steve Haskin

Another excellent bio by Steve Haskin, this time about a cheap throwaway thoroughbred yearling that sold for $1100 but became a world champion and the all-time winnings leader.

As with his other books, the author gives enough information to keep both the non-horsey reader and the avid racing enthusiast interested. Definitely recommended.

#35 Arabella by Georgette Heyer

Another delightful study of life and courtship in the Regency period by an author who excels in this genre. There's a lack of the usual breast-beating soap opera type of drama so typical of many Regency romances, and it's refreshing. Enjoy.

#36 Borden Chantry by Louis L'Amour

After severe weather leaves his ranch bereft of cattle, and with no money coming in, Borden Chantry takes the job of town sheriff to make ends meet. Things stay pretty quiet until a young stranger is found dead. Once Chantry makes an effort to solve the murder he meets resistance and dodges bullets. Good entry in the Chantry/Sackett/Talon series.

#37 Homesick: My Own Story by Jean Fritz (1983 Honor Book)

Touching recollection of the author's childhood in China, including her thoughts and observations of the culture. This one deserved its Newbery honor award, recommended.

#38 The Changing Land by Roger Zelazny

Entertaining story with the usual fantastic elements such as large hands springing forth out of the ground to snare and destroy the unwary traveler. While I enjoyed this book, there were a few plot points that never were addressed or or in a vague manner. Still an interesting read.

#39 The Snare of the Hunter by Helen MacInnes

I was surprised and pleased with this story, a first time read for me of a book by Helen MacInnes. It was a page-turner, can't-put-it-down type of book, with lots of plot twists. Very good, will be reading more by this author!

#40 South By Java Head by Alistair MacLean

This engrossing tale takes place during WWII just after the fall of Singapore to the Japanese. A motley group of evacuees strive to not only evade the enemy but also survive the elements with a traitor on board. Very good almost to the ending, which unfortunately was a tad weak. Still, it's another good story by MacLean.

#41 Taming the Star Runner by SE Hinton

A troubled young teen has a physical altercation with his overbearing step-father, and winds up being sent to live with his uncle. Travis is full of himself, thinks he's better than anyone around him, but winds up realizing that friends and human companions are pretty important.

I liked most of this book, though I felt the author could have developed the characters a bit more. And the ending was hurried, unsatisfactory, and not typical of SE Hinton's works.

#42 Bowdrie by Louis L'Amour

I thoroughly enjoyed a reread of this short story collection about a young Texas Ranger. I especially liked how the main character uses his smarts to uncover the truth of each investigation and doesn't just shoot/punch his way through. Recommended.

#43 Watership Down by Richard Adams

I first read Watership Down within a few years of its original publication, and immediately it became one of my favorite books. Upon a reread decades later I am happy to report that not only are the characters still engaging and the plot enthralling, but the descriptive prose, tucked into the whole like a cowslip among the larger meadow plants, was a delight to discover. I know this story, remember how it "all turns out" but yet found myself staying up late in order to finish the tale. Not a children's book, but preteens and up are capable of enjoying this more mature odyssey.

Stormbringer by Michael Moorcock

I gave this 50 pages, but there's nothing between the covers to keep me reading, especially with so many good books waiting on my shelves.

Not counting this toward my reading goal.

#44 North to the Rails by Louis L'Amour

In this final book of the Chantry series Tom, the son of Borden Chantry, is heading west in search of cattle to ship back east. Still green and unused to the ways of the frontier, he's an easy target for cattle rustlers or thieves...or is he?

I really liked this story and the characters contained within. It's a better than average L'Amour.

#45 The Pilgrim of Hate by Ellis Peters

Another satisfying read in the Brother Cadfael series, with more King Stephen/Empress Maud fighting in the background!

#46 My Brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier & Christopher Collier (1975 Newbery Honor)

A well-researched and written look at war and how it affects the local community. The subject matter was sobering, but worth reading for mature pre-teens and up.

#47 All Systems Red by Martha Wells

A thoroughly enjoyable outer space adventure as told through the eyes (sensors?) of a cyborg. There's some human emotional frailty and fallibility displayed by the protagonist that especially endeared it to me. Now on to book two...

#48 The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club by Dorothy L Sayers

While at his club Wimsey stumbles upon a body of an elderly man who died while reading the paper...or did he? The author does a good job of educating the reader with information better known by physicians, coroners, and devoted mystery readers, and without being boring. Good read.

#49 Atlantic Fury by Hammond Innes

This was my first Hammond Innes read, and I'm confident that it won't be my last.

The story seemed to start a little slow, but once the characters were facing the onslaught of an epic ocean storm I found myself unable to put down the book. The naval aspects of the tale were especially interesting, with enough seafaring jargon and tactics to make it authentic, but not enough to lose the interest of a landlubber like me.

Definitely recommended for those who like a ripping good yarn.

#50 Bowdrie's Law by Louis L'Amour

This is volume two of Louis L'Amour's short stories about Chick Bowdrie, Texas Ranger, and it's just as satisfying and entertaining as the first. Above average, and definitely worth reading.

#51 Black Fox of Lorne by Marguerite De Angeli (1957 Newbery Honor)

A well-written and believable tale of two Norse youths who wind up captives of an evil Scot lord. The author paints an interesting picture of life just prior to William's conquest of Britain, probably about 1020. While there are scenes of fighting and people dying there is nothing graphic.

#52 Kalak of the Ice by Jim Kjelgaard

I was able to purchase and read this long out-of-print book due to a publishing company making it available after decades.

Kalak of the Ice is the story of an elusive polar bear and the native hunter who pursues her. I like how the tribe isn't portrayed in a stereotypical fashion, and how the author is willing to let nature "take its course", without being graphic. Fine for preteens and up.

#53 The Oregon Trail by Francis Parkman

A very interesting and illuminating journal of sorts, written by a 23 year old young man looking for adventure in the American West of the 1840s. While one might not agree with his analysis about the native societies, his observations appear valid, and his prose paints a clear picture of his time. Occasionally his narrative timeline was muddled, and I had to turn back a page or two to get my bearings, but the chapters flow well for the most part. The attitude of the author and his companions are sometimes upsetting, but should be viewed in the context of the time and the age of the people involved. Definitely recommended.

#54 Kelso by Steve Haskin

I was too young to know of Kelso when he was winning Horse of the Year five times in a row, but author Steve Haskin does a really good job of rectifying that privation. Haskin doesn't write down to his audience, but doesn't overwhelm either, acquainting the reader with the most important and interesting aspects of his subject matter.

Kelso was a thoroughbred of modest pedigree, who wasn't good looking, and at first had an attitude against anyone who wanted to ride him. His owner tried to sell him but had no takers, even though he'd won a couple minor races. And then, as a three-year-old, Kelso started showing his worth. He went on to break records, beat all comers, and almost make two million dollars in lifetime earnings, an unheard of amount in the early 1960s.

You don't have to like horse racing to appreciate this bio of an American racing legend.

#55 Strong Poison by Dorothy L Sayers

Wimsey finds himself enamored of a woman accused of murder, and in a race with time to prove her innocence. Well done!

#56 Merchanter's Luck by CJ Cherryh (reread)


#57 Streams to the River, River to the Sea by Scott O'Dell

This is a semi-biographical story of the young female guide who accompanied Lewis and Clark on their exploration of the Louisiana territory, back in the early 1800s. The author has done a good job fleshing out the characters and avoiding stereotypes, ultimately providing us an interesting tale based upon the journals of the travelers.

#58 Sea Star: Orphan of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry

This is a cute story about Misty, and the Beebe family, and a new pony they name Sea Star.

It's also making decisions about what's best, not necessarily what one wants. And Wesley Dennis illustrations, woo!

#59 The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley

An absorbing story of a young woman who finds herself in a foreign land and among a dissimilar culture, trying to adapt to her changing circumstances. Thoroughly enjoyable.

#60 Rivers West by Louis L'Amour

We meet the second Talon in this story. Jean Daniel is a shipwright, headed from Quebec for Pittsburgh with plans to build steamboats. He pulls a dying man from the depth of a swamp, and soon finds himself involved in a search for the missing brother of a very pretty and capable young lady.

The farther I read, the more I enjoyed this one, a good yarn.

#61 Nathan Coulter by Wendell Berry

Told from the perspective of a young boy, this story illustrates life in a rural and poor community, where family was foremost even when strife and anger divided it. Good read.

#62 The Raven in the Foregate by Ellis Peters

Adequate entry in the series. I didn't guess the murderer but felt a little let down by how the mystery concluded.

#63 Artificial Condition by Martha Wells

The second book in the Murderbot series continues where the first ended, with our protagonist joining with some unusual companions while searching for what really happened on a day no longer in its memory. I like how the main character is growing into her (?) new status, and the humor displayed throughout the story.

#64 Jupie and the Wise Old Owl by Neely McCoy

Jupie's friend, Jean, is sick, so he and the other woodland creatures make her tea, clean her house, and entertain her with stories. Cute and sweet story, but not too sweet.

#65 Jericho's Road: A Story of the Texas Rangers by Elmer Kelton - (ROOT)

Worthy installment in the Texas Ranger series, continuing Andy's experiences as a Ranger. This time he and a less than friendly acquaintance are sent to the Texas/Mexico border due to increasing hostilities between residents on both side of the river. Good read, liked the character development, too.

#66 Baby Island by Carol Ryrie Brink

Fun and somewhat believable story about a couple young girls cast adrift in a lifeboat, along with four babies under 2! There's nothing really objectionable in the tale, and the songs that Jean makes up tend to stick in one's head.

I read this many times as a child, and was pleased to enjoy it again as an adult.

#67 The Man From the Broken Hills by Louis L'Amour

I have to admit that I really like the protagonist, Milo Talon, and that fondness bumped my rating from 3 1/2 to 4 stars.

The plot seems to be standard, cattle rustling and range wars, but the twists and turns and interesting characters make this an above average western story.

#68 Animal Gallery by Brian Wildsmith

A delight for the eyes, with big bright illustrations of animals in their family units, such as "an ambush of tigers".

I'm planning on giving this to my grandchildren, but after reading it just a few more times...

#69 Summer of the Stallion by June Andrea Hanson

The story started with promise, but then became disjointed and not very interesting.

#70 Sandy and the Rock Star by Walt Morey - (ROOT)

A teenager rebelling from his Hollywood style parents finds himself on an island with a tame cougar, trying to avoid a trophy hunter who purchased the big cat with the intent of adding another trophy to his collection. It reminded me of a Hallmark or Disney story, without all the saccharine. Good read, believable, and entertaining.

#71 The United States in World War 1: The Story of General John J. Pershing and the American Expeditionary Forces by Don Lawson

This author provides the reader with an overview of events that led to and included the first world war. He starts the narrative with what happened prior to the United States getting involved, then a slightly more detailed account of the battles that followed in 1918, and the Americans change in fighting methods and strategies. Throughout this book were short but interesting biographies of major and noted people involved and descriptions of the final few campaigns. It was never boring, with enough details to let us know what happened without being graphic.

#72 Tales From the Triple Crown by Steve Haskin

In this book the author, who has been an insider in racing for years, gives us a view behind the scenes of some famous and not-so-famous thoroughbreds involved in the US Triple Crown races. Some of the stories will make you chuckle, some will make you tear up, but all should entertain and inform you about the other side of horse racing, the one not always in public view. Definitely recommended, and not just for the horsey set.

#73 Milo Talon by Louis L'Amour

The title protagonist finds himself in a missing person mystery, recruited to help locate the heiress to her grandfather's fortune, all the while other shadowy characters try to dissuade Milo in his quest. Good entry in the Talon/Sackett series of books though not as entertaining as The Man From the Broken Hills.

Shadow of a Bull by Maia Wojciechowska - (1965 Medal Winner)

I tried to read this as part of the Newbery Challenge, but I couldn't get beyond all the descriptions of how glorious it was to kill a bull, and how the injury or death of horses used during bull fights was necessary. No stars.

#74 The Cybil War by Betsy Byars

Best friends for years due to similar situations, two boys come in conflict over a pretty girl in class.

The kids are real, and the situations are not contrived. If you appreciate Beverly Cleary's books such as Dear Mr. Henshaw, this should also appeal to you.

#75 The Rose Rent by Ellis Peters

This one had me guessing about "whodunit", and had several red herrings to deceive the reader. I liked it as well as most of this series entries, if not a tad more.

#76 Take Care of Dexter by Clyde Robert Bulla

This was a strange little book about new neighbors in a rural area. The characters are barely two dimensional, and there is no plot, just vignettes. I was disappointed that potential was squandered.

#77 Shamrock Queen by Marguerite Henry

Somewhat cute but terribly dated story of a dog whose owner submits to his wife's wishes and moves her (the dog, not the wife) to the town hall cellar to live. It was just okay.

#78 Jock's Island by Elizabeth Coatsworth

Interesting story of a sheepdog who finds himself abandoned with his flock on the island where he has lived his whole life. The tale is worthy of a read, but probably not for younger children who might find the cruelty of the situation disturbing.

#79 Jonathan Blair: Bounty Lands Lawyer by William Donohue Ellis

I bought this book at a library discard sale on a whim, based upon the cover. This time the cover method actually worked!

Jonathan Blair is what is referred to as a "Five Dollar Lawyer" by people on the northwestern frontier of the early 1800s, in what is now known as the state of Ohio. He helps the settlers with land deeds, treaties with the natives, etcetera, armed with just his three water-stained law books, doing his circuit on his unnamed bay mount. When a banker with a desire for more control tries to foreclose on the settlers, they find themselves in need of a 100 dollar lawyer, but all they have is Blair. Is he up to the challenge?

I really liked this book, definitely well-researched and full of early US/American history, but never overwhelmingly so. There's a lot of legal discussions, but I never felt bored, nor did the courtroom scenes slow down the story. And you get to know the characters, their strengths and weaknesses. The writing style reminded me of Conrad Richter and other good frontier fiction authors, but Ellis also adds just a bit of humor to keep the realities of the time from being too grim. Definitely recommended, if you can find a copy.

Tickers are down...


#80 The Hermit of Eyton Forest by Ellis Peters

Good entry into the series, with some not obvious revelations reserved for the very end. I also noticed and appreciated more introspection by Brother Cadfael.

#81 Big Wishes for Little Feat by Cheryl Olsten

A beautifully illustrated tale about an unwanted horse and a lonely girl. Story is good, illustrations are lovely.

#82 The Rider of Lost Creek (Kilkenny #1)

This is the first of the Kilkenny trilogy, and in it we are treated to something more than standard Western fare. Lance Kilkenny is a gunfighter by necessity, not choice, and when he comes to the aid of a friend caught in the beginnings of a range war he's expecting to get out as quickly as possible. But a mystery behind a series of murders complicates things, as well as the beautiful Nita.

#83 Whitey's New Saddle by Glen Rounds

Glen Rounds hasn't disappointed me yet. In this small book we visit with Whitey, a ten year old living with his uncle on a cattle ranch. Whitey hopes that the sale of his two steers will give him enough money to buy a brand new saddle of his very own. But then his cattle disappear and he's convinced rustlers did it.

Fun read, good for adults as well as youngsters.

#84 Murder Must Advertise by Dorothy L. Sayers

In this addition to the Lord Peter series we find the protagonist working undercover at an advertising agency. The reader not only gets a thoroughly entertaining story but also an insider's look at the advertising industry of the 1920s. Included is a secondary plot involving illicit drug culture and smuggling which I found interesting. While I remembered some details from my last read, 35 or so years ago, I still enjoyed the characters and the plot. Definitely recommended, even as a standalone.

#85 The Slave Dancer by Paula Fox

Somewhat interesting story told in first-person by a 13yo boy who is "Shanghaied" by the crew of a slave ship. Portions of the tale were a little difficult to follow, possibly due to the author's uneven writing style.

#86 The Strode Venturer by Hammond Innes

The Strode Venturer is a story about boardrooms, shipping vessels, and Indian Ocean intrigue. I appreciated how the author gives you enough information to draw you into unfamiliar territory yet not so much to leave you floundering in your ignorance of the realms described within. It's never boring, has enough action to keep you enthralled, and just a bit of personal relationships. This was my second read of a book by this author, but won't be the last.

#87 Prince Valiant, Vol. 9: 1953-1954 by Hal Foster

Saxons are attacking King Arthur's forces, a perfect distraction for Prince Valiant while his family is away. Aleta is enroute to the Misty Isles, to set her kingdom in order, all while keeping her eldest, Arn, in line.

Fun read, as usual, and fantastic artwork.

#88 The Man Who Sold the Moon by Robert Heinlein

As I read this book I was reminded of why I appreciate Heinlein at his best: his ability to tell a believable and interesting tale without all the drawn out technical elucidations that often flood and drag under SciFi stories. Descriptions of how a rocket is built or why a power source works aren't always necessary to advance a plot.

I consider this one of this author's better short story collections.

#89 The Mountain Valley War (aka A Man Called Trent) by Louis L'Amour
(Kilkenny #2)

Interesting and satisfying continuation of the Kilkenny series. I like Lance Kilkenny, a more complex character than one expects in this genre. The plot has been done before, cattle king vs. nesters, but for me the human interactions makes this a better than average tale by L'Amour.

#90 Bullet for a Star by Stuart Kaminsky

I've enjoyed other works by this author but until picking up Bullet for a Star I'd not read any of his Toby Peters mysteries. It's a decent read, with lots of name-dropping of Hollywood stars of the 1930s and just the right amount of humor, in my opinion. And for the reader who prefers stories without graphic sex or violence, this almost makes the grade. I'll keep an eye out for additional books in this series.

Ten books to go!

#91 Indian Fur by Glenn Balch

It's the early 1800s in the United states, and John Daniels is sixteen. His elder brother went west to be a fur trapper three years before and has never communicated with his family. John joins a trading expedition led by a wily mountain man and does a lot of maturing in the following months as he tries to locate his brother.

I liked how the author avoided using stereotypes in his depiction of the native Americans, and I learned more about how people survived in the often hostile environment of the early American frontier.

While aimed at a youth audience, this story of a young man exploring the American wilderness is perfectly fine as an adult read. I found it entertaining, and kept me up past my bedtime.

#92 Regency Buck by Georgette Heyer

Pleasant look into the Regency period without too much depth to drag the light plot. Not one of this author's best, but worth reading for anyone who appreciates the genre.

#93 The Miracle of Dunkirk by Walter Lord

An engrossing history of the evacuation of Dunkirk as told through the eyes of survivors. There's no sugar-coating of the blunders made by those in command, errors that should have sunk this operation, but there are also many stories of bravery and courage. Upon reflection it is truly amazing that as many people were rescued considering the mistakes committed. A miracle, indeed.

#94 Genuine Risk by Hallie I McEvoy

A well-done bio of a well-known champion thoroughbred, and only the second filly to beat the boys in the Kentucky Derby.

#95 The Doomed Oasis by Hammond Innes

Idealistic young man heads to the Middle East to find the father he's never met, the man who never acknowledged him or his sister. There's enough description of oil companies and local culture to give this story a feel of authenticity and keep the reader interested.

#96 Wanted...Mud Blossom by Betsy Byars

Pap's dog Mud has apparently eaten the hamster that Junior borrowed from his classroom for the weekend, what can be done?

Cute story about an eccentric family, with believable characters and situations. I'll be looking for more books by this author.

#97 The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman

I decided to read this as part of my Newbery challenge: to complete all the Newbery winners and honor books.

As I turned each page I kept asking myself "This is a Newbery??" Not impressed with the writing or the story. I've read much better tales.

#98 Kilkenny by Louis L'Amour

This is the third and final book in an entertaining series about a character I have come to know and appreciate. Lance is looking for a place to finally settle down, to be left alone, but another cattle baron with delusions of grandeur forces Kilkenny take up his guns for the defense of settlers. It sounds corny, but it's not, and the author makes the familiar plot less monotonous, more absorbing.

#99 Talking God by Tony Hillerman

This was my first Hillerman novel and I thoroughly enjoyed it. An activist Navajo wannabe gets arrested for graveyard robbery while an older man is found dead by the railroad tracks, without identifying information including teeth. The story had Native American aspects that I found interesting, the characters were believable, and the mystery plausible. I gave it an extra 1/2 star for keeping me up past my bedtime to finish the last 30 or so pages.

#100 Rogue Protocol: The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells

Another entertaining installment of the Murderbot series in which our protagonist takes the initiative to investigate an abandoned terraforming facility. Good, fun read.

#101 Canoeing with the Cree by Eric Sevareid

A gripping true story of two teenagers' quest to paddle a canoe over 2000 miles from Minneapolis to Hudson Bay.

>113 fuzzi: Congratulations on reaching 100. Another year of great reading.

>115 Eyejaybee: thank you! And I even liked my #100. 😁

Congrats on 100!

Congratulations!

>117 jfetting: >118 pamelad: thank you! I wasn't sure I was going to make it this year...

#102 I'm Sorry by Mercer Mayer and Gina Mayer

Little Critter thinks that just saying "I'm sorry" makes everything okay, but soon finds out he's wrong. Oops, he's sorry...

Bought, read, reviewed, and headed for my granddaughters.

#103 Arthur and the Forgetful Elephant by Maria Giron

A combination of delightful illustrations and a whimsical plot make this a pleasurable read for young and old alike.

I'm adding this one to my grandchildren's bookshelves.

#104 Gate of Ivrel by CJ Cherryh

This is the first book in the first series written by CJ Cherryh, and one of my favorites, behind the Chanur saga.

Morgaine is a mystery figure, showing up in a mystical fashion in the world of an exile, Nhi Vanye i Chya. He winds up becoming her servant for his own protection, and follows her in her quest to destroy time traveling gates that have the potential (and have succeeded) in destroying civilizations.

It's not strictly fantasy, but is closer to true science fiction.

Reread December 2020

#105 Abel's Island by William Steig

This is a story of a "dandy" mouse who becomes stranded on an island after a flood. How he copes with his circumstances and grows into a thoughtful creature is entertaining. And the simple illustrations are...perfect.

#106 See You Around, Sam by Lois Lowry

Sam is excited about the fake fangs he traded for at nursery school, but his mother won't let him to wear them in the house. So Sam packs a bag to take with him to Alaska, but first has to say goodbye to his neighbors. It's a cute running away story that made me smile.

One last read before midnight!


#107 The Dahlbe Family Horse by Laura Nelson Baker

Gentle tale of a farming family in the early 1900s. Papa wants one of the new-fangled Ford motor cars, but his daughter Sarah is scared they might sell or even shoot their old horse Birdie once she's no longer necessary. Not too sweet, not contrived, just right.