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Western Springs Reads

We want to get you involved. Have you read a good book that you wish to recommend to other readers? Write a short review. It can be as little as a sentence or two or a paragraph. Email it to us at info@fordlibrary.org and we will consider it for this page.

Here are reviews written by Thomas Ford Library readers.

The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig (Fiction) 4 stars A grown woman in 1909 Montana refuses to cook. Colorful characters, evocative of time and place. Well written, romantic. Kathleen 8/4/09
The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid (Fiction) 3 stars Interesting, at times tiresome look at American/Mideast relationships post 9/11 events. Thought-provoking and irritating too. You can see both sides yet not understand either one at the same time. Kathleen 7/30/09
The Boy Next Door by Meg Cabot (Fiction) 4 stars I am a big fan of Cabot's books, and this book definitely fits right in! The format was a little different -- it is written as a series of emails between various characters. It took a little getting used to, but I ended up really enjoying this book! Sarah S. 8/3/09
Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella (Fiction) 5 stars Another delightful read from the author of Confessions of a Shopaholic! The book is about all the little secrets that everyone keeps and what would happen if they are revealed. You really grow to love the characters in this book and I couldn't put the book down! Sarah S. 7/28/09
Eating Well for a Healthy Heart Cookbook: A Cardiologist's Guide to Adding Years to Your Life by Philip A. Ades (641.56311 Ade) 3 stars Good information, beautiful pictures, but most of the recipes are too complex (or unusual) for me. Glad I could review the book from the library instead of buying it for $25. Greg Schissler 7/25/09
Ultimate Fitness: The Quest for Truth about Exercise and Health by Gina Bari Kolata (613.7 Kol) 2 stars A wordy expose by a NY Times science writer that doesn't end up saying much -- just don't believe everything you hear. No practical advice. Anonymous 7/25/09
The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls (B Walls or YA B Walls) 5 stars The author tells the story of the extreme poverty of her childhood, but with such humor you find yourself laughing. A fun and absorbing read. Anonymous 7/28/09
Big Stone Gap: A Novel by Adriana Trigiani (Fiction) 4 stars A fun read with a few quirky characters thrown in. A story of a woman finding herself and love. Nancy M. 7/22/09
The Greatest Generation Speaks: Letters and Reflections by Tom Brokaw (940.5481 Bro) 5 stars I found the book to be a good sequel to his first book. It is hard to imagine what it was like to experience the Depression and then war. The more I read, the more I want to learn. It was also interesting to see comments from people in Hinsdale and Clarendon Hills and LaGrange Park included in the book. Greg Schissler 7/20/09
Nightmare in Pink by John D. MacDonald (PB MacDonald) 3-1/2 stars Many of the Travis McGee books are great. You don't realize that they were written in the 1960s - you could still imagine the story taking place today. However, this book had a sci-fi aspect that, while it was probably appropriate for the time, was very unrealistic and far-fetched. Still a great Travis McGee mystery, but not as plausible. Sarah S. 7/18/09
Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel (Fiction) no rating Second time I've read this wonderful book. I got it for my 11-year-old son to read. He loved it and then I read it again. Great fiction! Great book about a strong girl! MM 7/16/09
Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson (Fiction) 3 stars This is a coming-of-age book about a boy and his youth in the woods of Sweden. The English translation comes off as somewhat different - but, a very good story. MM 7/16/09
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult (Fiction) 5 stars I had no idea what this book was about when I picked it out. I was shocked after the first couple of pages. I couldn't put it down yet I had to put it down because some parts were sad and I needed a break. I can't imagine the movie would be any good. Anonymous 7/15/09
Belong to Me by Marisa De los Santos (Fiction) 3 stars This is the sequel to Love Walked In. I enjoyed the book. It was light and easy to read. It had a twist but it all worked out in the end. Good beach read. Anonymous 7/15/09
Girls in Trucks by Katie Crouch (Fiction) 3 stars It started out as a book about a young girl in the South, but turned into a book about a woman who "picked cruel men" for relationships in her late 20s. I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. Nancy M 7/15/09
The Little Guide to Your Well-Read Life: How to Get More Books in Your Life and More Life from Your Books by Steve Leveen (028.9 Lev) 4 stars The author really loves books. I liked that this is a little book with some good ideas to help you find interesting books and manage your reading. Like a good diet book, it tells you to only read what you enjoy and make careful selections. Goal of increasing satisfaction, inspiration and enjoyment. Anonymous 7/14/09
The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shafer (Fiction) no rating This easy read book takes you to a different part of the world. It's unusual because it's written in letter form. I thoroughly enjoyed this form. Now I know where Guernsey and the Channel Islands are located. Chris 7/10/09
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Fiction: YA Collins) 4 stars Fascinating situations with likable characters. This book is very well-written and would make an excellent book for a group discussion. I can't wait till the sequel comes out! P. Blakely 7/9/09
Wine and War: The French, the Nazis, and the Battle for France's Greatest Treasure by Don Kladstrup (940.53 Kla) 4 stars Interesting stories about World War II France, especially having to do with wine production and everyday life. You'd think the war was about wine. It's hard to imagine any product in the U.S. being as important as wine is to the French. Anonymous 7/6/09
Other Voices, Other Rooms by Truman Capote (Fiction) no rating The descriptions of the characters literally took my breath away. The entire story becomes a sort of kaleidoscope of visions. The main character's development is evidenced by his ability to accept all of life's shadings of tone and meaning. Anonymous 7/6/09
I Can See Clearly Now by Brendan Halpin (Fiction) 3 stars Of special interest to young people who are interested in music and the composing of songs. I was a little put off because they all created their music while "high," but I have to admit it kept me interested and I could not stop reading it. Anonymous 7/6/09
Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen (Fiction: YA PB Kaysen) 4 stars A must read for anyone who has had a relative or friend who has had a mental breakdown. Also good reading for teenagers. Anonymous 6/30/09
About a Boy by Nick Hornby (Fiction) 4 stars The story of a boy, learning to deal with his mother's suicide attempt and coming of age, is actually humorously written with that British wit and dry humor. It also deals with a "coming-of-age" story with the 36-year-old character, Will, who realizes it's better to become part of a family than live a hedonistic, selfish lifestyle. The last chapter summing up the boy's "journey" is insightful in a way one, whether male or female, can relate to in all aspects of life. Nancy M 7/1/09
The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa (Fiction) 5 stars The Housekeeper is a young, single mother of a 10-year-old boy, struggling to make a decent life for them. Until the age of 47, the Professor was a celebrated math genius; in 1975, he hit his head in an auto accident that caused his short term memory to become like a tape that erased every 80 minutes. When the Housekeeper came to work for him 17 years later, they had to adjust to each other and to the trio they formed when her son - whom the Professor named Root - was added to the equation. This simply, beautifully written story is a scant 180 pages long (plus Discussion Questions for book clubs), but sparks a limitless number of thoughts and emotions about memory, family, love, loss, math and . baseball! Christine Ricker 6/29/09
How to Talk to a Widower by Jonathan Tropper (Fiction) 5 stars Never have I laughed out loud so many times while reading. As one man struggles to survive as a young "widower," all the misfortunes and mishaps of everyday life are magnified. If you like watching TV shows like "America's Funniest Home Videos," this book is for you!!! Anonymous 6/29/09
Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld (Fiction) 2 stars This coming-of-age book was full of teenage angst. As a woman in my 40s, I didn't want to go there. Meg 6/28/09
Loving Frank by Nancy Horan (Fiction) 5 stars The dilemma for Mamah, who was a married, upper-class housewife who became Frank Lloyd Wright's lover, was leaving her kids at ages 4 and 8 for two years to be with him. The writing on FLW's organic architecture and style was fascinating, too. Meg 6/28/09
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski (Fiction) 5 stars I can see why this book was on the best seller list for so long. It's long but if you like dogs and kids you will love this book. Best book I've read in 6 months. Jan 6/23/09
How to Pick a Peach: The Search for Flavor from Farm to Table by Russ Parsons (641.35 Par) 3 stars An interesting read for anyone who is interested in selecting and preparing fresh produce. More of a reference book than a straight read. Gives the history of the cultivation of specific items along with a few recipes for each. Anonymous 6/22/09
The Fortune Cookie Chronicles: Adventures in the World of Chinese Food by Jennifer 8. Lee (641.5951) Lee 4 stars I enjoyed the historical context the author weaves into her journey to find the nationality who takes credit for inventing the fortune cookie. Most poignant is the chapter telling the tale of modern day restaurant workers and their efforts to come and stay in America. Ann Marie C. 6/20/09
When a Crocodile Eats the Sun: A Memoir of Africa by Peter Godwin (B Godwin) no rating If you are interested in the recent history of Zimbabwe, Africa, you will find the book fascinating. It gets a little rough as you read about the atrocities happening in that country, but it's worthwhile as it helps you understand all about the situation. Sally 6/18/09
Home Safe by Elizabeth Berg (Fiction) 5 stars I enjoyed this book. A story about a woman learning to do things on her own after her husband dies. Nice story about a mother/daughter relationship. Anonymous 6/17/09
All My Patients Have Tales: Favorite Stories from a Vet's Practice by Jeff Wells (636 Wel) no rating Not as good as James Herriott but in the same vein and any animal lover will enjoy it. First year vet and his experiences. Jan 6/11/09
Dog Days by Jon Katz (636.7 Kat) 5 stars Katz is a dog trainer and writes books about it. This book is about his life on a farm he bought in upstate NY. He tells stories ab9out each of his dogs and the other animals he's accumulated, as well as the local people. Told with affection and humor, a cozy read. Nancy L 4/10/09
Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's by John Elder Robison (616.85882 Rob) 5 stars Robison describes his childhood and what it was like growing up with Asperger's syndrome. He was not diagnosed until he was in his 40s. Nancy L 1/5/09
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd (Fiction) 5 stars Fascinating story of a young girl, Lily, from the South during the 1960s who is looking to find love and where she belongs. She finds these after meeting three black sisters. Good book to read and listen to on tape. Linda 7/23/08
Simple Genius by David Baldacci (Fiction) 3 stars It's a good summer read. Chapters are short and you do not have to think or get depressed. As in all of his books the ending is very suspenseful and keeps you on edge. Sally 7/22/08
Courting Trouble by Lisa Scottoline (Fiction) 3 stars This book is similar to a Grisham book. It had a twisted ending and was very exciting. JE 7/20/08
The Tea House on Mulberry Street by Sharon Owens (Fiction) 3 stars I loved the characters although I thought there was too much infidelity. Annie 7/19/08
The Appeal by John Grisham (Fiction) 1star The novel was filled with intrigue. As an attorney, offering my opinion, it will leave readers questioning our current judicial system. The ending will shock the reader. Anonymous 7/9/08
Fever by Bill Pronzini (Fiction) no rating I really enjoyed the various subplots that are developed in this excellent mystery novel by one of the great mystery writers, Bill Pronzini. the author also provides a realistic cast of characters and their struggles. Anonymous 7/16/08
The Piano Tuner by Daniel Mason (Fiction) 4 and 1/2 stars I found this book on the shelves and, being a pianist, the title intrigued me. I read it over the course of a month at home (in between vacation trips). I found it was descriptive, colorful, informative writing from the "writers" point of view describing his trip from England to Burma, set in the early 1800s. He was asked to tune a rare piano for a military man in a far off post. It includes stories, letters, and cultural descriptions. I would recommend it for those who like historical and/or military history from a civilian. Original point of view. I really enjoyed it. It was refreshingly "clean" and a good read! Diana Myhre 7/14/08
Rise and Shine by Anna Quindlen (Fiction) 3 stars I was somewhat disappointed in Ms. Quindlen's latest book. I did not feel that it was of the same caliber as her other book. I think the story dragged and the ending was a complete bust. Anonymous 7/14/08
More Sand in My Bra by Julia Weiler (Editor) (910.4 MOR) 5 stars If you are a woman single or married, this book has some of the funniest stories I have ever read and they are all "true". Jan, 6/28/08
Sundays at Tiffanys by James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet (Fiction) 4 stars A great summer read about an imaginary childhood friend who returns to help the child when she is an adult in need. Warm, funny, and entertaining. Lee, 7/2/08
Can You Keep a Secret by Sophie Kinsella (Fiction) 4 stars This book is hilarioius. Sophie Kinsella makes you feel like you are friends with the main character- such a fun read! Annie, 7/3/08
Second Chance by Jane Green (Fiction) 3 stars Great weekend read. A great romance, "girly-girl" book. Easy read, fun and imaginative. Anonymous, 7/3/08
Lucky Us by Joan Silber (Fiction) 2 stars Narration skipped between two characters which made it interesting to hear different perspectives. Not enough character development. Anonymous, 7/3/08
In The Woods by Tana French (Fiction) 5 stars! Couldn't put this book down. Murder mystery with a twist!! Takes place in rural Ireland. I loved this book- well written and great plot. Anonymous, 7/3/08
Finger Prints by Barbara Delinsky (Fiction) 4 stars I liked this book because it was exciting. It was about a woman with a whole new identity. JE, 7/3/08
A Woman Betrayed by Barbara Delinsky (Fiction) 5 stars This book kept my attention. It had some of the same twists as the movie Double Jeopardy. JE, 7/3/08
Your House, Your Home by Randy Florke (747 FLO) 4 and 1/2 stars I've read several articles in Country Living Magazine on Randy Florke's renovations. His philosophy of renovating and decorating is based on three principles: comfort, economy and color. He is sensitive not only to designing beautiful and liveable interiors but he is also respectful of the environment as he repurposes and recycles. Nancy, 7/5/08
Freedom for the Thought That We Hate: A Biography of the First Amendment by Anthony Lewis (342.7308 LEW) 5 stars This is an enlightening account of how First Amendment rights have evolved since being adopted. It includes some interesting facts regarding the Sedition Act and questions the assertions of strict Originalists in light of the historical facts. Great discussions of government fear tactics through the years and privacy issues. Extremely important to read in the context of current events. Anonymous, 7/9/08
Male of the Species by Alex Mindt (Fiction) 5 stars Every story was a different person: widowed man, young boy, sister, Hispanic man, etc. Every story was neat! Anonymous, 7/9/08
Shabby Chic: Gift of Giving ,by Rachel Ashwell (640.73 Ash) 5 stars The Shabby Chic inspiration in this book transforms re-purposed and recycled items into thoughtful gifts and lovely gift-wrappings. Rachel Ashwell inspires her readers to live simply, be environmentally responsible and give welcome gifts. Nancy Holt, 6/30/08
Falling Angels ,by Tracey Chevalier (Fiction) 3 stars Always has historical facts mixed with her fiction. Good read - a little cheesy. But, fun. Meg, 6/28/08
Best American Short Stories 2002 , by Sue Miller (Editor) (Fiction) 5 stars Great old favorites! Meg, 6/28/08
The Clan of the Cave Bear , by Jean M. Auel (Fiction) 5 stars I loved this book. It was so Rated G.but very interesting and exciting that I gave it to my eleven year old son to read too. Meg, 6/28/08
Blink , by Malcom Gladwell (153.44 GLA) 4 stars Blink is the ensuing story of Malcom Gladwell's study of the snap judgments people make as well as how difficult to understand the human mind really is, especially its ability to reason without logical explanation. Blink is contemporary and intriguing.br /> Anonymous 6/27/08
The Purpose Driven Life , by Rick Warren (248.2 WAR) 5 stars This was an empowering and inspiring book! It does a terrific job of guiding readers in daily segments to live life to its fullest in God's love. It's also an excellent read for those new to the Christian faith or those who may be curious about it. Anonymous 6/27/08
Havanas in Camelot: Personal Essays , by William Stryron (813.54 STY) 4 stars I always looked forward to reading Mr. Styron's books. How nice to be able to read this book of short essays so long after his death. His wonderful humor shows through in the different essays. Subjects ranging from famous people he knew to some of his own adventures. Sally, 6/26/08
The Best of Roald Dahl , by Roald Dahl (Fiction) 5 stars Quick, clever stories always with a twist! "Lamb to the slaughter" is one of the first stories I read by Dahl, and still sets the standard, in my opinion, for an ordinary tale told extraordinarily well! Ileene Giering, 6/14/08
Open House , by Elizabeth Berg (Fiction) 3 1/2 stars I liked the "easy read". Good character development, nice plot, but the story 'took off' too late in the book. Recommend for a nice weekend read. Lauren, 6/18/08
The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted , by Elizabeth Berg (Fiction) 1 stars Very disappointing. Short vignettes that left you wondering what was the point. Bonnie, 6/18/08
A World Without End , by Ken Follett (Fiction) 4 stars Follett brings Medevial times to life. He depicts goodness vs. evil very well. A great summer read! Meg, 6/16/08
The Far Forests, by Joan Aiken (Fiction) 3 stars If you enjoy reading stories that are different, you will enjoy these stories. They have twists and turns with a touch of sci fi and the macabre. The author also adds a bit of humor. The stories were all "fun" to read. Sally, 6/16/08
The Great Divorce, by C. S. Lewis (237 Lew) 4 stars The Great Divorce was intriguing to read because it looked at the idea of what heaven and hell would be like in relation to a person's mind, thoughts, attitudes, and experiences on earth. C. S. Lewis does a great job of examining this idea through a fictitious tale of a man's journey to heaven ... or is it? Though more known for his Chronicles of Narnia series, The Great Divorce is an excellent adult read. Anonymous, 6/14/08
Red Sky at Morning: America and the Crisis of the Global Environment, by James Gustav Speth (363.7 Spe) 4 stars Speth, dean of Yale's School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, and co-founder of the Natural Resources Defense Council and the World Resources Institute, describes major global environmental crises facing the world today (including climate change, biodiversity loss, deterioration of marine environments, deforestation, and freshwater shortages), and addresses why international efforts to date have largely failed to solve them. Speth believes these failures result largely from an emphasis on addressing the symptoms rather than on the underlying causes of environmental degradation. Speth then describes eight major transitions needed for global environmental protection and sustainability. This book is well written, insightful, and unusual in its scope and "big picture" outlook. Robert Sullivan, 2/8/08
Best Friends, by Martha Moody (Fiction) 0 stars The book was bad. I do not recommend this book. It took forever to read. The story was not believable. Soap operas are more realistic. BAD!!! Anonymous, 7/24/07
Saturday, by Ian McEwan (Fiction) 4 stars One of our best contemporary authors, McEwan shows us the subtle and not so subtle shifts in cultural and personal perspective since 9/11. The story follows one day in the life of a surgeon - the day begins ordinarily enough, but is marred, then defined, by a violent encounter over a minor traffic accident. --Susan H., 7/23/07
The Year of Magical Thinking, by Joan Didion (B/DIDION) 4 stars Chronicling a tragic year in Didion's life, the book should be depressing and sorrowful. But in her expert style, Didion creates a memoir affirming life and love, human connection and perseverance. --Susan H., 7/23/07
In Our Strange Gardens, by Michel Quint (Fiction) 3 stars A slim book, translated from the French, this story poignantly shows the very human factors in war. The focus is on French prisoners of WW II kept in a hole and their developing relationship with their German captors. --Susan H., 7/23/07
Bella Tuscany, by Frances Mayes (914.44/MAY) 3 stars A delightful account of Mayes' life in Tuscany. The book transports the reader to an exquisite area of the world, ripe with bounty and glorious food. --by Susan H., 7/23/07
Terrorist, by John Updike (Fiction) 4 stars The very prolific writer John Updike brings us a timely and thought-provoking novel. Ahmad is a devoted Muslim high school student of 18, who is disillusioned by the materialistic world around him, and somewhat repulsed by his Irish-American mother who has raised him after his Egyptian Father abandoned them. His growing fanaticism makes him the perfect target for exploitation by a terrorist group. Could hardly put this book down. . . A great read. --Gwen Quackenbush, 7/23/07
The Remains of the Day, by Kazuo Ishiguro (Fiction) 4 stars A beautifully executed, poignant story of Stevens, a master butler who has spent his whole life (and his father before him) in service to others. The novel deals with his reflections on his life looking back over 30 years. In his obsession to be the perfect butler, Stevens has missed the opportunity to have a life of his own, perhaps with head housekeeper, Miss Kenton. He also missed the flaws in character of his master, Lord Marlington, through his unshakeable loyalty. A sad tale about an era which is all but gone. I loved it. --Gwen Quackenbush, 7/20/07
A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khaled Hosseini (Fiction) 4 stars A "splendid" book--not quite as good as Hosseini's Kite Runner--but a must-read! I sat on my porch today to finish the last fifty pages with tears running down my face. --Liz Burns, 7/12/07
Digging to America, by Anne Tyler (Fiction) 1 star This book is about two families who adopt babies from Korea--one family is American, the other Iranian. I expected it to be about the adoptees. Instead it's about the adults. It seemed soap-opera-like to me. It is not up to the quality of some of Tyler's others works. --Lillian Fahrner, 7/11/07
Summer Sisters, by Judy Blume (Fiction) 2 stars The book was OK. It was a little hard to get started, but it was a quick read. A good book for the beach or pool. Typical chick book. --Anonymous, 7/10/07
A Room with a View, by E.M. Forster (Fiction) 4 stars I consider this book timeless. Language and expressions may change but situations do not. With great humor, well-drawn characters, and lush settings, E.M. Forster creates an enchanting "back-and-forth" tale of a heroine caught between what she thinks she should do, and what her head and heart tell her she must do. --Gwen Quakenbush, 7/3/07
Ordinary Life, by Elizabeth Berg (Fiction) 3 stars In this collection of short stories, the author shows her usual "knack" for getting inside a woman's mind and soul, exploring, and then recording what she finds within. Ms. Berg's endings sometimes leave you "up in the air," deciding for yourself how the situation might or might not be resolved . . . but is this a bad thing? --Gwen Quakenbush, 6/28/07