South of Broad by Pat Conroy

This story started out a little rough for me. I was not instantly drawn into the book in a "can't put it down" sort of way. However I kept reading it and was soon drawn into the characters and the intricacies of their friendships. At times I found myself longing for the intimacy and history with a group of friends such as these characters possessed. I also realized how blessed I am to not have experienced all of their tribulations.

This story had so many layers and background story lines that flowed into making the history of this group of friends. The details that initially left me not as interested proved to be pertinent.

Warning there are many sensitive topics touched upon in this story including multiple versions of violence against children and adults. Strong language is also used however it seems like a perfect fit to add the appropriate richness to the story.

Perfection

Perfection by Julie Metz is toted as a memoir of betrayal and renewal. I was struck by the honesty with which Ms. Metz shared her story with the world. The life that she was thrown into, not by choice, but by consequences of the choices her husband made was tough to say the very least. Ms. Metz had to deal with situations where most people think they would bury their heads and hide, Ms. Metz chose to dig her self out and research her husband’s choices to better understand them as well as to come to a better understanding of herself. I applaud Ms. Metz for her willingness and bravery in sharing such intimate details of her life with us. This was a very intriguing book. I definitely felt at times that I was snooping in someone’s diary. I applaud Ms. Metz her successes in life and congratulate her on her strength and determination

The Crying Tree

The Crying Tree by Naseem Rahka is a story told in an alternating time line between the past and present. The story centers around the shooting death of a 15 year old boy and the fall out of his death on his family and the community.



Gripping, roller coaster of emotions bringing you on a journey to places that are, often, too uncomfortable. Places where you wish that such things didn’t exist
But ultimately, this story is about the human spirit and compassion. We are all simply travelers on this journey with our own stories to tell. This was a great, interesting read. I had trouble putting it down, my only complaint is that I couldn’t devote a large enough block of time to finish it in one sitting- as I went about my daily activities my mind kept drifting back to this book.