Water for Elephants

by Sara Gruen

I just really excited to read this book. I had heard how good it was. I really enjoyed the story of a man torn between his younger self and the present aged man. I liked how the author was able to make him real and keep me interested in both his life as a young man and his current struggles as a 90-something man. The story brought to life the reality of the Depression of the 1930's. It also gave great insight to circus life during that time (and now).

I thought the story was great! I did NOT however think the language was necessary (f-words dotted throughout). There was a couple of explicit chapters that could have been less graphic. Overall, great story, adults content.

***
I can't recommend it to anyone who finds graphic sexual scenes and f-words offensive.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

by J. K. Rowling

Wow...! I had the Hardest time putting this one down! I have always thought H.P. to be for kids...it is, but it's not. There's no many different layers. Kids will enjoy reading it, but might get a little scared if they're young. I found profound lessons for life as I read...

Definitely a must-read!!

*****

I'm going to take a break for a little while...need to catch up on a few projects before diving back into a book.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

by J. K. Rowling

Harry is now in his sixth year at Hogwarts. He knows he can trust his friends and he wants to get on with life.

He has endured hardship, sorrow, joy, and peace...he again visits those feelings this year. He has resolved to fight darkness and his friends are by his side!

GREAT!!

*****

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

by J. K. Rowling

I actually finished this book a couple of weeks ago, but I forgot to post it. So, here goes.

I love how each book in the series adds another dimension to the entire story. This time the author adds adult influence in it's finest form. Harry finally has adults to look to as role models, to answer questions, and to guide him.

LOVE IT!!

*****

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

by J. K. Rowling

Harry is getting so grown up. He crushes on girls, fights dragons and fights Voldemort! What a guy!
So sad that a character goes away, but one more exciting installment in the Harry Potter saga!!

*****

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkhaban

by J. K. Rowling

I can't believe I'm already done with the third book. These three have been relatively short compared to the four that follow. I love how another key character is introduced and become an integral part of the story. I also love how in each year at Hogwarts, Harry learns something specific that is used against Voldemort that year. I am getting more and more hooked (again) as I continue reading this series. This book has a couple of swear words (farm language), but nothing I haven't said in conversation or at exasperated moments with my children (Damn, Hell)...anyway. Good book, sad to see it end. Excited for Harry's fourth year at Hogwarts!

*****

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

by J. K. Rowling

It is so fun to read this series again. Harry's power is increasing and the Hogwarts' classes are learning so much! I love how Harry and his friends find ways to solve problems and how the everyday troubles are so relatable. They seem to have the same kinds of problems other kids have - "does he like me?", "should we do homework or play?", "how do I tell an adult what happened?" Loveit! Loveit! Loveit!

*****