The Names by Florence Knapp

So what if you had been named something other than the lovely name of Beverly Kathleen? Would you be a different person had you been named Bertha, Ruth, Matilda? My parents almost named me Valentine. Would I be different if they had?

This novel reminds me a bit of Sliding Doors, that wonderful movie from years ago where one small change was made and then the storyline splits. In The Names, a young mother is making a decision about what to name her newborn son. Should she name him Gordon after his father and grandfather? Or should she go rouge and name him Bear as her daughter wants? Or should she find a suitable name somewhere in the middle... Julian. We now follow three storylines and how the family moves through their lives as a result of the name given to the boy.

Great story - even if a little confusing sometimes as to what is going on when you jump back into an alternative timeline. But it's well written and certainly hold your interest. - Highly recommend. - June

How to Read a Book by Monica Wood

Ignore the cover. It makes the book look like it's written for children. Or it reminds me of those Mitford books that were popular years ago and very sappy (and maybe religious?). The title is odd too but memorable and it makes sense once you've read the book.

Three characters: Violet, a young woman who makes a terrible mistake and serves time as a result. Harriet, a kind, intelligent woman in her 60's who volunteers at a prison to run a book club. And Frank, a widower who is magically connected to both of these women. There are lots of literary references that are fun, and there's an interesting storyline about training parrots. 

And it takes place in Portland, Maine! One of my favorite towns, and I could picture it all taking place there.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it. -June