Oct 02 2008
GPBookBlog: Recently Read
I have a taste for the obscure when it comes to my picks in books. I always scan the bargain book bins and sometimes find a real gem. These three books were real Rubies.
Secret Daughter by June Cross
Written by the mixed race daughter of a 1950’s actress this is the story of June. She tells her story with emotion, humor and an understanding that was a long, hard time in coming. I found this book hard to put down. You will find this book elicits many different feelings; anger, sympathy, inspiration. June Cross is now a successful television producer and tells the story of her childhood with clarity and love. Find it online or check your local library.
Animals in Translation by Temple Grandin
I think the translation part of this book comes from the fact that it was written by an Autistic woman who has the ability to “understand” animals in a way the rest of us can’t. At least that is what she seems to be claiming; that because of her Autism she is more tuned in to animal think. She talks about dogs and cats and horses but her main area of expertise is cattle. In fact, she makes a living by designing more humane and efficient slaughter houses. Along the way she gives interesting facts about the cattle industry. It did seem strange to me that someone who can understand animals finds their lives work in making it easier to slaughter them but, even so, it was an interesting read.
Crossing Over by Ruth Garrett
A young woman marries a man many years older than she. He has also been divorced twice and was once in the Army. Those things would probably be enough to cause concern in her parents but would it cause them to disown her? Probably not unless she was Amish. This is the personal story of just such a girl, an Amish girl who leaves her family and her faith for love. She tells it with emotion, pain and even some humor. She also describes the fear and wonder she felt at the non-Amish world she finds herself in. I read this book in one day. An easy and compelling read.
