Springtime Reads

BOOK REVIEWS BY LINDA STEPHEN

Blackbird House by Alice Hoffman

This collection of short stories is perfect for anyone who has only short periods to read. Blackbird House is the story of a house, its inhabitants, and their relation to the land over 200 years on the wild cape of Massachusetts. The first story takes place in 1778, when a fisherman and his two sons are lost at sea in a great spring storm. The last story brings a cancer survivor from the city to visit – and stay. Through the years, the fruit orchards and fields of sweet peas planted by the first widow grow whether tended to or not. I recommend this haunting book for those who love glimpses of the decisions that form or break families.

Chronological Order: The Fine Print for a Large Life by Jill B. Yesko and Laurean Kile

This life manual offers stories and checklists to help the reader be happy, healthy, and organized at any age. Written by two certified professional organizers who have helped thousands of seniors and families to downsize, move, declutter, sort photos and more, Chronological Order includes hints and resources for creating an intentional life map – including personal, financial, and home, for each decade. The authors share their personal mistakes, tragedies, and lessons learned. Paperback or eBook. See more ideas at www.chronologicalorder.info.

The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend
by Katarina Bivald

This novel features Sara, a young book nerd from Sweden, who travels to a small town in Iowa to meet her book-loving pen pal Amy. Sara arrives on the day of Amy’s funeral. The town welcomes her to stay in Amy’s house. She proceeds to open a bookshop in an empty storefront. This delightful, quirky book is a celebration of friendships, community, and all who love to read.

Linda Stephen is an artist, writer, and editor in Lincoln. Her origami picture book “The Day We Went to the Park” won the 2021 Nebraska Book Award – Illustration Honor.

Contact at Linda@ UnfoldingCommunications.com.