fuzzi Makes it to 2021 and Another 100 Books to Read!

Snak100 Books in 2021 Challenge!

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fuzzi Makes it to 2021 and Another 100 Books to Read!

1fuzzi
Redigeret: dec 31, 2020, 9:12 am

Despite all the chaos I met my 100 book challenge goal in 2020!

My reading is eclectic, and I review EVERY book I read, so do stop by often.

Oh, and I don't "spoil" when I review or discuss books, so read without fear!

Here's my ticker:



And my 2021 main thread is here:

https://www.librarything.com/topic/327963#

Please drop by!

2jfetting
jan 1, 2021, 2:02 pm

Happy New Year! Looking forward to following your reading again in 2021.

3fuzzi
jan 1, 2021, 3:25 pm

>2 jfetting: thank you! Feel free to comment as you are led.

4hemlokgang
jan 2, 2021, 1:46 pm

Good health and good reads in 2021!

5swimmergirl1
jan 2, 2021, 4:07 pm

Happy 2021 reading!

6fuzzi
jan 2, 2021, 6:24 pm

>4 hemlokgang: >5 swimmergirl1: thanks, I appreciate it.

Working on my first book of 2021, a Cadfael mystery by Ellis Peters.

7fuzzi
jan 5, 2021, 6:42 am

First read of 2021 completed!


#1 The Confession of Brother Haluin by Ellis Peters

Satisfying entry in the Cadfael series, about a fellow monk with a secret, and a need to atone for it. I guessed the solution to the mystery, but it was still "good fun".

8Eyejaybee
jan 11, 2021, 12:59 pm

Hi Fuzzi.

Great to see you back here again. Best wishes for another great year of reading.

9fuzzi
Redigeret: jan 23, 2021, 11:04 am


#2 The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold

An involving tale of a simple soldier, an unlanded lord, who finds himself employed in a royal household gripped by madness, betrayal, and ambition, and with the impression that he has been chosen by deity for a greater purpose. Very good read.

(Review from October 2016)

10fuzzi
jan 23, 2021, 8:34 am


#3 The Rescuers by Marjorie Sharp

How did I miss reading this in my childhood? As I read every animal book I came across, I'm going to blame our public library for not having a copy.

It's a story of perseverance in the face of impossible odds, bravery and selflessness by characters that should be hiding in fear, and of humor in difficult situations. And Garth Williams illustrations are a plus!

11fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 2, 2021, 6:55 am


#4 The Twenty-One Balloons by William Pène Du Bois (Newbery)

A somewhat interesting but ultimately boring account of a professor who sets off to circumnavigate the world in a balloon but winds up on a tropical island inhabited by people who have created their own society. The premise was good, but the story dragged along, as each wonderful invention was thoroughly and exhaustingly described.

12fuzzi
jan 28, 2021, 6:58 am

I've a LOT going on in RL ("Real Life") right now, so I picked up a favorite for a reread. The review is from 2016:


#5 Dragonsinger by Anne McCaffrey (reread)

While trying to escape almost certain death, Menolly has been rescued by dragon and rider, and finds herself where she's wanted to be for a long time: the Harper Hall. But not everything goes well, as petty jealousies and vindictive acts abound, from those who attempt to make her stay unpleasant, or even worse, very short-lived. Her main source of emotional support comes from her nine fire lizards, a "half-wit" kitchen drudge, and a young troublemaker.

Of all Anne McCaffrey's works, I am most fond of the Harper Hall series, and especially this second volume of Menolly's tale. It's aimed at all ages, and worthy of a read, whether by an adolescent, or a granny, like me.

13fuzzi
jan 29, 2021, 9:37 pm


#6 The Broken Gun by Louis L'Amour

A mystery set in the American west, but in the mid twentieth century instead of the author's usual late 1800s period. Not L'Amour's best, but worth a read.

14fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 2, 2021, 6:54 am

Duplicate post...

15fuzzi
jan 31, 2021, 5:40 pm


#7 The Blessing Way by Tony Hillerman

Absorbing tale of an inexplicable killing interwoven with the hunt for a "Wolf-Witch" on the reservation. Good character development, interesting descriptions of native beliefs, and minimal passages of violence.

16fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 2, 2021, 8:51 pm


#8 Exit Strategy by Martha Wells

Murderbot goes on a rescue mission, putting itself in a no-win situation against the best sec units a corporation can field. Fun read, as always.

17swimmergirl1
feb 2, 2021, 8:01 pm

>11 fuzzi: I love this Book! I read it with my students!

18fuzzi
feb 3, 2021, 7:31 am

>17 swimmergirl1: well, it's a Newbery book, so I figured someone loved it. It just wasn't something I enjoyed.

19fuzzi
feb 3, 2021, 7:32 am

Speaking of enjoying, just finished a reread:


#9 Nerilka's Story by Anne McCaffrey

Nerilka is one girl in a large family that is suddenly struck by worldwide tragedy. Ashamed of her father's lack of compassion, selfishness, and hypocrisy in the situation, she leaves her home with the intention of assisting in the recovery efforts of a nearby settlement that has also suffered.

I appreciated how the author told a story through the eyes of a woman who, despite her privileged background, was determined to serve and assist those in dire need.

20fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 3, 2021, 11:29 pm


#10 Law of the Desert Born by Louis L'Amour

This is an above-average collection of short stories by that iconic Western author. Included are two stories about Mathurin "Matt" Sabre, and one with Kim Sartain, familiar to those who have read stories of Ward McQueen from the Tumbling K ranch. Included, too, is the gripping "Trap of Gold", also in the "War Party" collection. Not a lame steer in this bunch, recommended to any who just like a good short story.

21fuzzi
feb 7, 2021, 11:53 pm


#11 Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb

From the day he was abandoned at the king's gates the boy with no name was content with tending the horses and dogs in the king's stables, never imagining or wanting involvement in the world of royal intrigue. But what one wants isn't necessarily what one gets.

I was racing through this book to see what would become of the ill-conceived child of a royal heir. The story was interesting, and I fell in love with the characters.

Wow, what a ride that was!

22fuzzi
feb 11, 2021, 8:40 pm


#12 Henry & Leo by Pamela Zagarenski

This story about a boy and his love for a stuffed lion is sweet and gentle. While similar to an old classic The Velveteen Rabbit, it is original enough to stand on its own. And the illustrations are superb!

23fuzzi
feb 11, 2021, 8:41 pm


#13 The Whisper by Pamela Zagarenski

A delightful story with wonderful illustrations about a young girl and her teacher's favorite book. This one is headed straight to my grandchildren!

Thanks to Whisper1 for recommending this and the previous book Henry & Leo.

24fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 13, 2021, 5:04 pm


#14 The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli (1950 Newbery Medal)

Young Robin becomes ill, losing the use of his legs just as plague strikes London. A local friar arrives to rescue him and nurse Robin back to health. The friar's actions start the young nobleman on a path of learning, and to also find his way beyond his handicap and into adolescence. Very good read, worthy of a Newbery.

25fuzzi
feb 13, 2021, 5:04 pm


#15 Afternoon of the Elves by Janet Taylor Lisle (Newbery Honor 1990)

A more serious tale of a friendship between an "in" girl and a social outcast, drawn together by their fascination for the unseen world in one's backyard. Sobering but worthy read of less than idyllic childhoods.

26fuzzi
feb 14, 2021, 10:56 pm


#16 Trading Jeff and His Dog by Jim Kjelgaard

Entertaining story of a young peddler who gets involved with a murder mystery in the hills of Appalachia.

27fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 17, 2021, 9:08 pm


#17 Rose in a Storm by Jon Katz

Rose is a shepherd, a Border collie mix who loves her farm, her sheep, and her partner Sam. But when a blizzard of the century hits how can she keep all of her charges safe?

Engaging read of "what if?" inspired by the author's own collie and his farmstead experiences.

28fuzzi
feb 17, 2021, 11:45 pm


#18 Double Challenge by Jim Kjelgaard

Ted and his father Al live in the wilderness, living off the land. When a poacher is shot suspicion falls on Al. Ted finds himself both trying to manage his new hunting lodge and prove his father's innocence. Good read.

29fuzzi
feb 18, 2021, 10:53 pm


#19 The Polar Bear Twins by Jane Tompkins

Older story about nature, aimed at children but without sugar-coating that polar bears kill to eat. The illustrations are a treat.

30fuzzi
feb 20, 2021, 8:11 pm


#20 Jupie Follows His Tale by Neely McCoy

This is the third and final book in the Jupie series, where Spring arrives and life gets busy for both Jean and Jupie. Ground Hog wakes up, Robin returns from the South, Cow has a baby, and Jupie goes fishing with disastrous results. Nostalgic and enjoyable read.

31fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 21, 2021, 12:27 am


#21 The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer

Entertaining tale of a young Holmes sibling setting out on her own despite her guardian's pronouncements. Well done pastiche.

32fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 24, 2021, 6:43 am


#22 Mr. Tucket by Gary Paulsen

Francis finds himself in trouble after lagging behind the wagon train, but then a mountain man shows up, and the fourteen year old boy finds himself growing up fast.

I really enjoyed this story. It was believable, realistic, authentic, but not too graphic.

33fuzzi
Redigeret: feb 25, 2021, 6:37 am


#23 Call Me Francis Tucket by Gary Paulsen

Tucket is on his own, heading west in search of his family, finding trouble when he least expects it. But he also discovers that finding company, no matter in what form, can be better than being alone.

34fuzzi
feb 26, 2021, 8:30 pm


#24 Tucket's Ride by Gary Paulsen

Tucket and his charges run into trouble with outlaws, but also meet an old friend. And then a decision has to be made.

This was a shorter book in the series, ending in a cliffhanger of sorts.

35fuzzi
feb 26, 2021, 8:30 pm


#25 Tucket's Gold by Gary Paulsen

Francis Tucket continues to flee pursuing outlaws, unaware of the dangers and discoveries ahead, including meeting up with some compassionate folks, and some other unpleasant fellow wanderers.

36fuzzi
feb 26, 2021, 11:29 pm


#26 Tucket's Home by Gary Paulsen

As Francis, Lottie, and Billy continue west they meet more settlers in search of a better land, though not all will finish their journeys unscathed, or at all.

I liked this final book in the Tucket series, and appreciated its well-written ending.

37fuzzi
feb 28, 2021, 7:42 am


#27 A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond

This is a collection of mildly amusing tales about a small bear who comes to live with a family in London.

I recall reading this years ago and being just as underwhelmed at the time. Upon my reread I found the title character's antics irritating and quickly lost interest in the book. If I'd read this when I was a child I might have enjoyed it more.

38fuzzi
mar 2, 2021, 9:10 pm


#28 Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares

This book is about the origins and history of the Tomb of the Unknowns and those who guard it at Arlington National Cemetery, a place that I have had the privilege to visit. There are emotion-evoking paintings illustrating the text on every page, and I felt myself succumbing to tears as I read.

While it is a picture book, the subject matter would be understood better by those who are 8 or 9 years old and up.

39fuzzi
mar 7, 2021, 7:59 am


#29 Martha by Gennady Spirin

Charming story about an injured crow that comes to live with the author's family. Love the detailed illustrations, too.

40fuzzi
mar 8, 2021, 11:28 pm


#30 Locked Rooms by Laurie R. King

I love this book, I've read it more than once, twice, maybe even more than thrice. The author does a fantastic job of not only giving us a twisty plot, but also developing the characters even more so, beyond the previous installments of the series. I don't think there is anything I can fault in this one.

41fuzzi
mar 10, 2021, 11:22 pm


#31 Guns of the Timberlands by Louis L'Amour

A stranger arrives in a small western town with a score of lumberjacks on payroll and the intent to cut down a growth of virgin timber before the government can stop him.

While a little slow to start, I felt this is one of the author's better stories.

42fuzzi
Redigeret: mar 13, 2021, 11:41 pm


#32 Up Periscope by Robb White

Wow. Described as a young adult book, this adventure story read more like a Hammond Innes or Alistair MacLean tale. Good plot, enough suspense to keep the pages turning, and just the right amount of details to make it plausible. I'm looking for more works by this author.

43fuzzi
Redigeret: mar 15, 2021, 10:37 pm


#33 Native Dancer: Thoroughbred Legends by Eva Jolene Boyd

A well-written biography of a thoroughbred champion, whose many descendants continue to exhibit the winning traits they inherited from the original Gray Ghost, Native Dancer.

44fuzzi
mar 17, 2021, 10:03 pm


#34 The Greyhound by Helen Griffiths

Jamie wants a dog, but his mother says no, there's not enough room or money at home. When a dog he's befriended is suddenly for sale, a classmate lends the money to Jamie, but at a price. Is all the deception and trouble to keep Silver worth it?

Good story, showing how breaking one rule can lead to bigger troubles, but the author conveys the moral without being preachy.

45fuzzi
mar 21, 2021, 3:03 pm


#35 The Reluctant Dragon by Kenneth Grahame and Ernest H. Shepherd

Whimsical story of a dragon who isn't interested in fighting, even when the infamous St George arrives to remove "the scourge". Adults will appreciate the subtle humor.

46fuzzi
mar 22, 2021, 10:13 am


#36 Margaret Pumphrey's Pilgrim Stories by Elvajean Hall and Margaret Pumphrey

This was an old favorite from my childhood, so when I recently saw a copy on the shelves at a thrift store, I immediately snagged it. I completed my reread, and I was not disappointed, feeling it held up well as an adult read.

The authors tell the story of a group of English who wish to worship God as they believe, not be forced into a "state" church, and suffer persecution including imprisonment for it. Their journeys are told in a fictionalized account based upon actual records, and in a young adult friendly manner: deaths are mentioned, and there are some accounts of skirmishes, but nothing graphic.

It's well-written and worth a read by anyone interested in a fuller account of the Pilgrims, the kinder, gentler and Native American friendly settlers who are not to be confused with the Puritans, those of The Scarlet Letter and The Crucible fame.

47fuzzi
Redigeret: mar 23, 2021, 10:38 am


#37 Horse of Two Colors by Glenn Balch

Two young captives escape their Spanish masters, each taking a horse as they flee on foot. One of the horses is a prized stallion, a horse of two colors, sporting dark spots on its rump. But the youths know well that they are in danger, pursued by vengeful men. Can they make their way home safely ahead of angry soldiers and through the territory of enemy tribes?

This is an engaging story with minimal violence, appropriate for pre-teens and up.

48fuzzi
Redigeret: mar 24, 2021, 8:05 am


#38 Tracker by Gary Paulsen

John is 13, raised by his grandparents since he was orphaned. But now his grandfather is dying. John is struggling with the unfairness of it all when a beautiful doe seems to beckon him to follow her.

Intriguing look at how a family faces impending death, and not depressing at all.

49fuzzi
mar 25, 2021, 8:16 am


#39 Tiltawhirl John by Gary Paulsen

Short coming-of-age story, told from the perspective of a 16 year old runaway who winds up working as a carnie. There are some touching moments as well that made the characters more human than caricature.

50fuzzi
Redigeret: mar 28, 2021, 11:16 pm


#40 The Story of Rose by Jon Katz

Jon Katz has written many books about his life and animals on Bedlam Farm, but this book is all about Rose, his partner during the early years of Katz' journey of discovery. I loved reading about her management of all things within the farm's boundaries.

51fuzzi
mar 30, 2021, 9:15 am


#41 The Summer of the Swans by Betsy Byars

Sara is restless, unhappy with her life, angry at the world. Her older sister is beautiful and has a boyfriend, and her younger brother Charlie is a burden, a pest. He hasn't spoken since he had a high fever six years ago. When Charlie wanders away overnight Sara's priorities change, and she discovers friendship in those she considered enemies. Realistic, not overly-whiny as some teen stories tend to be, recommended.

52fuzzi
mar 31, 2021, 10:11 pm


#42 The Moved-Outers by Florence Crannell Means

A gripping tale of Japanese-Americans forced to leave their lives and their homes, sent to internment camps after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor. While most are discouraged about their current situation, some exhibit perseverance and hope for the future.

The plot is handled skillfully, never becoming melodramatic, always keeping the characters fresh and real.

53fuzzi
apr 9, 2021, 5:56 pm


#43 Riviera Gold by Laurie R. King

Extremely satisfying entry in a series that seldom fails to delight me. The mystery was not simple, the guilty were not obviously so, and the methods of investigation weren't preposterous or far-fetched. Enjoy.

54fuzzi
apr 10, 2021, 5:20 pm


#44 Alida's Song by Gary Paulsen

A young teen receives an invitation from his grandmother to spend the summer working on a farm where she is employed as a cook. It turns out to be a turning point in his troubled life. And it made me smile, well done.

55fuzzi
apr 10, 2021, 5:35 pm



#45 #46 Just Grandma, Grandpa, and Me by Mercer Mayer

A two in one edition of Just Grandma and Me including Just Grandpa and Me, both amusing reads. The storylines are simple enough: going to the beach with Grandma, and going to the city with Grandpa. And the pictures are delightful, too.

56fuzzi
apr 11, 2021, 9:00 am


#47 The Light at Tern Rock by Julia L. Sauer (Newbery Honor 1952)

Ronnie's uncle was a lighthouse keeper for many years, so when the current keeper comes to Aunt Martha with a request for her to watch the lighthouse for just a couple weeks, he's happy to go along. But his feelings change when transportation fails to return on the appointed day, or after, and they are marooned on the lighthouse rock.

Good story with emotional depth.

57fuzzi
apr 12, 2021, 10:33 pm


#48 The Quilt by Gary Paulsen

During World War II a young boy lives for a time with his grandmother in northern Minnesota. Most of the narrative takes place on a farm, where the boy learns about animals, chores, and experiences new life as well as loss. Very touching.

58fuzzi
Redigeret: apr 14, 2021, 10:40 pm


#49 Warden Force: Masters of Destruction and Other True Game Warden Adventures by Terry Hodges - (Early Reviewer)

This book contains a series of stories about the experiences of game wardens, based upon true events. I enjoyed it quite a bit; it reminded me of the old Cops television show.

59fuzzi
Redigeret: apr 19, 2021, 8:59 am


#50 Buckskin Run by Louis L'Amour

I feel that Louis L'Amour excels in the short story format, and this collection is a good example of entertaining and interesting stories set in the 1800's American west. I especially enjoyed Jackson of Horntown and Down the Pogonip Trail, and one other story in which the ending surprised me. Recommended.

60fuzzi
Redigeret: apr 20, 2021, 8:34 am


#51 The Three Billy Goats Gruff retold by Ellen Rudin

A delightful retelling of an old tale, and the illustrations are wonderful, too!

Off to the grands it goes!

61fuzzi
apr 20, 2021, 8:31 am


#52 Home: Habitat, Range, Niche, Territory by Martha Wells

A short story that continues the narrative from Exit Strategy and reveals a little more about how Murderbot thinks. I love the humor that subtly bubbles to the surface throughout this book.

62fuzzi
Redigeret: apr 26, 2021, 11:23 pm


#53 Westward the Tide by Louis L'Amour

Fairly standard yet entertaining story of a wagon train headed for destruction.

63fuzzi
Redigeret: apr 29, 2021, 10:49 pm


#54 The Adventures of Maya the Bee by Waldemar Bonsels

Vintage yet enjoyable story of a bee who decides to explore instead of work gathering nectar. Maya's defection results in a number of adventures, both good and bad. Not for the youngest reader due to some depictions of death, as is common in the natural world.

64fuzzi
Redigeret: maj 1, 2021, 5:30 am


#55 Brian's Hunt by Gary Paulsen

It's early autumn, and Brian is canoeing his way north to visit with friends when he makes a horrifying discovery, leading to a resolution that could cost him his life.

This is a worthy and suspenseful addition to the Hatchet series.

65fuzzi
Redigeret: maj 4, 2021, 7:29 am


#56 Last Stand at Papago Wells by Louis L'Amour

A renegade group of Apaches are on the warpath, killing as they go. Meanwhile strangers converge at the only water hole for miles, hoping their numbers will hold off the attacks until help arrives...but will it?

A bit slow starting, but a solid middle and ending to this tale.

66fuzzi
maj 5, 2021, 6:55 am


#57 White Water Still Water by J. Allan Bosworth

An engaging story of an ill-prepared teen who finds himself in the wilderness with no skills to survive except for what he's read in adventure books. It's not a typical survival story and I appreciated the author's balance between a slightly whiny kid and the emerging adult. Nicely done.

67fuzzi
maj 6, 2021, 8:23 am


#58 Flight of the White Wolf by Mel Ellis

A pet wolf has killed a valuable show dog, so now posses are scouring wooded areas nearby to execute the animal in the name of justice. A young teen decides to lead his pet deeper into the Wisconsin wilderness where the vigilantes cannot locate him.

Another boy in the wilderness type of story but without as much emphasis on survival techniques. There is some violence and blood but it is not described in a graphic manner, so this should be okay for pre-teens and up. Overall a good read, a "gotta find out what happens" page-turner for me.

68fuzzi
Redigeret: maj 7, 2021, 9:04 pm


#59 How to Make a Bird by Meg McKinlay

A nicely illustrated but surreal book about making a bird from bits and pieces of bones, feathers, and sea shells. It was too strange and weird for my tastes, and I didn't enjoy it on the second read either.

Three stars for illustrations, two for storyline.

69fuzzi
maj 14, 2021, 6:45 pm


#60 The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

The discussions between the characters remind me of Winnie the Pooh books. The ink illustrations are lovely, worth at least 4 stars, but the handwriting made the text difficult to read. Still worth a look.

70fuzzi
maj 14, 2021, 6:46 pm


#61 Murder on the Trans-Siberian Express by Stuart Kaminsky

Inspector Rostnikov is sent on a mission which involves following a suspect on the famous Trans-Siberian express, but he is not expected to return. Sasha Tkach is trying to keep on the straight and narrow while Karpo seems to have a death wish. And in the meanwhile Elena Timofeyeva and her fiance Iosef try to prevent another murder in the subway system.

Not as much a mystery as a solid story about the post-Soviet society. Good entry in the series.

71fuzzi
Redigeret: maj 16, 2021, 12:24 pm


#62 The Foxman by Gary Paulsen

A young teen, transplanted from the city to the northern woods of Minnesota, discovers an old man living by himself, and a friendship between the two develops.

This one is special, recommended.

72fuzzi
Redigeret: maj 28, 2021, 5:58 pm


#63 The Potter's Field by Ellis Peters

The remains of a woman are uncovered as an unused field is being plowed. Was she the estranged wife of a man who recently took vows to become a monk? The weave is tangled in this one, indeed, and I wasn't sure whodunit until the end, when I discovered how wrong I was. Good twisty mystery.

73fuzzi
maj 31, 2021, 3:37 pm

Comfort reread last night...


#64 Christmas Horse by Glenn Balch

Ben and his family live on a ranch in Idaho, where they breed and raise horses and cattle. It's the only life he has known, but now that he's 14 he has to go to school in Boise, several hours' drive from home.

When he goes home in December, his Christmas present is a 'green broke' horse he had his eye on, to train as his own cow horse. But in a week he has to go back to Boise? How can he train his horse, "Inky", while at school?

Ben does some growing up in this book as he works hard to balance school and the challenge of finding time and money to take care of his horse.

This book is suitable for either adults or juveniles. I read it when I was about 12, but it was just as good as a reread, some 45 years later.

74fuzzi
Redigeret: jun 1, 2021, 9:00 am


#65 The Pinballs by Betsy Byars

Three children arrive at a foster home on the same day, angry, disappointed, and scared. How they learn to cope with their family issues and each other isn't portrayed in a contrived manner, but more realistic...with a touch of hope. Satisfying read, wish it were longer.

75fuzzi
jun 1, 2021, 9:05 am


#66 Annie and the Wild Animals by Jan Brett

The story is cute, the illustrations are the best!

76fuzzi
jun 17, 2021, 7:30 am


#67 Venetia by Georgette Heyer

Venetia is 25, unmarried, and happy to be running her elder brother's household in absence of a husband, content to be a spinster rather than to be married to someone she doesn't love. And then she runs into a long absent owner of a nearby manor, a rake who is a love-em-and-leave'em type of man.

I enjoyed Venetia, though it seemed a bit overlong.

Standard good read by Heyer, just not her best.

77fuzzi
jun 23, 2021, 6:46 pm


#68 Art & Max by David Wiesner

What a delightful feast for the eye and funny bone! This one is headed for my grandchildren's bookshelves.

78fuzzi
jun 28, 2021, 5:48 pm


#69 The Summer of the Danes by Ellis Peters

Brothers Cadfael and Mark head into Wales on a diplomatic mission that escalates into conflict between Welsh royalty and Danish invaders. Not so much a mystery as an interesting story about 12th Century politics and relationships.

79fuzzi
jul 11, 2021, 12:09 am


#70 Castle Shade by Laurie R. King (release date 6/8/21)

Slow to start but another enjoyable entry into the Russell/Holmes series.

80fuzzi
jul 14, 2021, 10:53 pm


#71 They Looked for a City by Lydia Buksbazen

This is the story of a family of Russian Messianic Jews and how their faith sustains them through trials in the early to mid Twentieth century. This read was interesting, engaging, but not too preachy.

81fuzzi
Redigeret: jul 18, 2021, 12:02 am


#72 Roller Skates by Ruth Sawyer

Lucinda is a different child, not conforming to certain "standards" her parents and Aunt Emily think she should. While her parents are away for a year Lucinda stays with less restrictive guardians and discovers that life offers good and bad, happy and sad experiences that will guide and mold her into adulthood. Worthy of the Newberry medal it won.

82fuzzi
jul 21, 2021, 8:46 am


#73 Hondo by Louis L'Amour

Hondo is a loner, a dispatch rider for the Army, avoiding warring Apaches through his knowledge and wits. Angie is a woman living alone on her ranch, with only a young child to keep her company, deserted by her husband. When Hondo shows up one day without a horse but toting a saddle a friendship between the two solitary people is begun.

I liked this much better than I'd recalled from a read of about 30 years ago. Lots of character development without all the self-reflection and angst that is found in some later L'Amour novels. The native tribes are presented as people too, not stereotypes. Good read, recommended.

83fuzzi
Redigeret: aug 10, 2021, 8:40 pm


#74 Network Effect by Martha Wells

Another adventure with Murderbot, her human charges, and a new friend.

84fuzzi
Redigeret: aug 10, 2021, 8:46 pm


#75 Little Fuzzy by H Beam Piper

A re-read of an old favorite. It's dated, but who cares? Love those fuzzies!

85fuzzi
sep 9, 2021, 2:50 pm


#76 The Journals of Lewis and Clark by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, edited by John Bakeless

I recalled very little about Lewis and Clark's expedition from my school days, so I when I saw this little paperback at a yard sale I thought I'd give it a read. And I'm glad I did.

While some might feel that reading journal entries from over 200 years ago would be boring or tedious, I found them fascinating. Yes, some of the attitudes could be considered old fashioned or out of date, but many of the interactions between the native tribes and the exploration team were refreshingly respectful and compassionate.

And I was never bored.

It could be that the huge volumes produced on this trip by Lewis and Clark might be tough to get through, but the editor waded through the mountains of information to create a satisfying read.

86fuzzi
sep 12, 2021, 1:20 pm


#77 Warden Force: The Worst of the Worst and Other True Game Warden Adventures by Terry Hodges

Another thoroughly engaging series of true stories about the lives and adventures of game wardens.

87fuzzi
sep 13, 2021, 8:05 am


#78 The Burning Hills by Louis L'Amour

Pretty good read about a posse trying to eliminate someone who killed a cattle baron, even though it was done in self-defense. The interesting portion of this story is who comes to his aid, though some of the scenes might cause modern readers a little discomfort.

88fuzzi
sep 15, 2021, 6:39 am


#79 A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck

What a delightful read! This book consists of short stories about two children's summer visits with their grandma in 1930s Illinois, told from the perspective of the older brother. Their grandmother is an original, a non-conformist, and the children learn to love and emulate her.

The local library has the other two books in the series. I've put in a request to borrow them, and plan to enjoy more about these characters this weekend.

89fuzzi
sep 16, 2021, 6:29 am


#80 A Year Down Yonder by Richard Peck (Newbery)

It's 1937, and Mary Alice is now 15 years old. She has been sent to live with her grandmother while her father searches for employment. Things are tough all over, but Grandma Dowdel hasn't changed from her eccentric ways, using atypical methods to keep them both clothed and fed. Wonderful, smile-inducing book, and worthy of the Newbery it won in 2001.

90fuzzi
sep 16, 2021, 10:34 pm


#81 A Season of Gifts by Richard Peck

A preacher and his family move into a house next door to an eccentric elderly lady, who soon becomes an important part of their lives. Another delightful entry in the Grandma Dowdel books.

91fuzzi
sep 22, 2021, 8:21 am


#82 Unreported Truths About Covid-19 and Lockdowns: Part 4: Vaccines

Former New York Times reporter Alex Berenson has written a well-researched and thought provoking book about the origins, testing, and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines. He includes references to medical journals so the reader can compare what is written with the source documents. Fascinating read for anyone interested in both the pro and con positions regarding the novel mRNA vaccines.

92fuzzi
sep 23, 2021, 12:17 pm


#83 The Holy Thief by Ellis Peters

Decent addition to the Brother Cadfael series. This time I guessed the actual murderer, but not the motive. Interesting.

93fuzzi
sep 24, 2021, 5:47 pm


#84 The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman (Newbery Medal 1996)

Engaging story of a 13th century homeless waif who winds up living with a midwife and learning the trade.

94fuzzi
sep 28, 2021, 10:42 pm


#85 The Penderwicks on Gardam Street by Jeanne Birdsall

Delightful continuation of the first book in the series. Rosalind starts to worry when her father is coerced into a blind date, Skye and Jane make a pact with disastrous results, and Batty keeps claiming she's seen a "bugman". It's a funny, touching, believable story.

95fuzzi
okt 5, 2021, 10:12 am


#86 When Dementia Can Be Cured: 1 in 10 Dementia Patients Have NPH And Could Be Cured in Days by Dr Vernon Coleman

This booklet was given to me by a dear friend who knows about my spouse's early onset dementia. It thoroughly described a condition that mimics Alzheimer's and that can be cured if treated early enough. Not too technical, easy and short read that I'd recommend for anyone with a family member facing a dementia diagnosis.

96fuzzi
okt 16, 2021, 9:11 pm


#87 Kitten and the Night Watchman by John Sullivan

Captivating tale of a watchman doing his rounds at night, hearing the sounds of the evening, all while being followed by a small kitten...until she suddenly isn't there. Lovely tale for young and not-as-young, wonderfully illustrated, too.

97fuzzi
Redigeret: okt 16, 2021, 9:24 pm


#88 Miss Meow by Jane Smith

Miss Meow likes to pretend she's a cat, but when her play mouse is damaged she's sure it was her little brother who did it...or was it?

Nice illustrations, mildly amusing.

98fuzzi
okt 18, 2021, 1:48 pm


#89 The Wreck of the Mary Deare by Hammond Innes

Ripping good yarn of men and the sea, with lots of technical jargon and nautical excitement. The author kept the tension and suspense going even through the official courtroom enquiry portion. The romance did seem to be casually tacked on, but it didn't ruin the story for me.

(shared read with PaulCranswick)

99Eyejaybee
Redigeret: okt 19, 2021, 2:36 am

>98 fuzzi: That is a real blast from the past! I read a few books by Hammond Innes when I was a teenager forty odd years ago, and remember enjoying this one. However, I haven’t thought of him for years. I know he was immensely popular, and his novels were big sellers in the UK for a while - I tend now to associate him in my mind with Alistair Maclean, whose books I loved as a teenager. They shared the same approach of high adventure, all plot driven and with little exploration of his characters.

I think that a film was made of ‘The Wreck of the Mary Deare’ in the 1950s.

100fuzzi
okt 19, 2021, 12:48 pm

>99 Eyejaybee: I haven't seen the film, but saw a reference to it in a review.

I got started reading Alistair MacLean with The Guns of Navarone, a favorite film from my youth. I've since read the majority of his books, some are better than others, but most have been highly enjoyable.

I also have discovered Helen MacInnes and found her works to be in a similar vein.

101fuzzi
Redigeret: okt 21, 2021, 6:45 pm


#90 The Penderwicks at Point Mouette by Jeanne Birdsall

It's vacation time and the younger Penderwicks are headed to Maine with Aunt Claire. With Rosalind in NJ visiting a girlfriend, Skye is put in charge but feels inadequate. While Jane is researching love for her latest book, Batty has taken an interest in music. It won't be a boring two weeks in Pointe Mouette, the Penderwicks are in residence! Fun read.

102fuzzi
Redigeret: okt 21, 2021, 7:04 pm


#91 Lonigan by Louis L'Amour

Good, solid set of stories about people and situations in the west.

103fuzzi
okt 30, 2021, 7:10 pm


#92 People of Darkness by Tony Hillerman

Jim Chee is a young Navajo, contemplating a law enforcement career with the FBI, when he's hired by a local woman to find an item taken during a burglary. And suddenly he faces pushback, evasions, and bullets.

I liked the characters in this mystery, and how the author skillfully interweaves Chee's heritage into the story.

104fuzzi
Redigeret: nov 5, 2021, 10:02 pm


#93 Utah Blaine by Louis L'Amour

One of my favorites by this author. A young gunfighter finds himself hired to manage a huge ranch in the middle of a range war. Interesting characters, plenty of action, fun read.

105fuzzi
nov 14, 2021, 12:30 pm

DNF, Pearl ruled at 25 pages...


Why Some Animals Eat Their Young by Dallas Louis

No rating, I'm 25 pages in and haven't felt even slightly amused. Perhaps if I'd not read books by Peg Bracken and Erma Bombeck in the past I might have appreciated this more.

106fuzzi
nov 22, 2021, 8:14 am


#94 Sargasso of Space by Andre Norton

Although written in the 1950s, Sargasso of Space did not read like a stereotypical early SciFi. The plot flowed along nicely with the technical aspects only vaguely described, which not only made the book more timely but more believable. I enjoyed reading this, and will look for other books in the Solar Queen series.

107fuzzi
dec 6, 2021, 7:32 am


#95 Brother Cadfael's Penance by Ellis Peters

I've been putting off reading this, the last of the Brother Cadfael series, but I'm glad I finally did take the plunge. Without spoilers: Brother Cadfael finds himself having to leave his duties in order to assist in brokering a peace between Empress Maud and King Stephen. There's also some unfinished business from previous books that is being addressed, so don't read this until you've read the previous entries. Nice swan song.

108fuzzi
dec 6, 2021, 10:41 pm

Reread, review is from 2012:


#96 The Homecoming by Earl Hamner

If you've seen the television movie "The Homecoming" starring Patricia O'Neal then you know the story, because the movie is very similar to the original book. The television series "The Waltons" was based upon the characters in this and other books by the author, Earl Hamner, Jr.

It's Christmas Eve, 1933, and snowing in the mountains of Virginia. Clay Spencer is expected home from his job but is running late...and finally his wife sends their eldest, Clay-Boy, to see if he can find someone to help him find his Daddy.

Great characters, a pleasant and heartwarming read. Recommended.

109fuzzi
dec 7, 2021, 11:45 am


#97 Apple and Magnolia by Laura Gehl - (Early Reviewer)

Cute story of a little girl who loves the two trees in her yard that she insists are friends. Dad and big sibling pooh-pooh her thoughts but Nana agrees. And together they try to help when one of the trees appears to be ailing.

110fuzzi
dec 8, 2021, 8:42 am


#98 Quadrille by Marion Chesney

Subpar Regency romance with too much angst and drama even for Marion Chesney. I finished the book despite its faults.

111fuzzi
dec 12, 2021, 8:05 am


#99 War Party by Louis L'Amour

(Review from 2014)
War Party continues to be one of my favorite collections of short stories by this author. The story that gave this book its name was later expanded into Bendigo Shafter, in which one of the key characters is a strong and resourceful widow. The Gift of Cochise was eventually expanded into a full length story, Hondo, which is a good novel in itself but I prefer the simplicity of the shorter version. Even virtually unknown stories such as One for the Pot, about a mail-order bride's role in a land war, remain my favorite "comfort reads", to be read and enjoyed over and over. If you want to see why some of us enjoy Louis L'Amour's books so much, this would be a good place to start reading.

112fuzzi
dec 12, 2021, 8:05 am

So close...

113fuzzi
Redigeret: dec 13, 2021, 12:55 pm

And here's #100!


#100 Nightjohn by Gary Paulsen

Interesting premise, not executed as well as I would expect with this author.

Newly acquired slave arrives and starts teaching others to read, with some horrible results.

114Eyejaybee
dec 14, 2021, 7:38 am

>113 fuzzi:. Congratulations on making it to 100, Fuzzi.

115fuzzi
dec 14, 2021, 8:58 am

>114 Eyejaybee: thank you!

I just started a labor-intensive book, Northwest Passage. I'm hoping to get it finished before the holidays arrive. :)

116hemlokgang
dec 20, 2021, 1:12 pm

Congratulations on making 100!!!

117pamelad
dec 20, 2021, 2:51 pm

Congratulations on reading 100!

118fuzzi
Redigeret: dec 21, 2021, 12:36 pm

>116 hemlokgang: >117 pamelad: thank you!

I'm still working through a very good chunkster, Northwest Passage, hope to have it done by the end of the year.

119fuzzi
Redigeret: dec 22, 2021, 9:17 pm


#101 A Year With Friends by John Seven and Jana Christy

Cute book about the months of the year and what to do during each one. Whimsical simple pictures perfectly illustrate each month's page. Well done!

120fuzzi
dec 31, 2021, 8:49 pm

#102 Conagher (reread)

I also read one of my Christmas gifts:


#103 The Night Gardener by The Fan Brothers

Magical story about a transformation of a community. The illustrations are jaw-dropping amazing, I could study them for hours.

121fuzzi
jan 3, 2022, 7:14 am