A Review: Cane River by Lalita Tademy

A REVIEW

by: Tasha

Title: Cane River

Author: Lalita Tademy

Pages: 543

Publisher: Warner Books

ISBN-10: 0446615889

Rated: Ages 13+

Front Cover
Depicted on the cover is a woman who stands in front of a  house back in the late 1800-1900's.  From my perspective, it provides you with a sense of the time period in which the book takes place.  I believe the home belongs to one of the women whose amazing stories are told within this novel.  I used this picture as a reference point when reading pages of the book that described events that took place within a home setting.

Background
The author of this book, Lalita Tademy, made a decision to give up her fortune 500 career to research her family's history after curiosity about her great grandmother (Philomene) and the generation of women before got the best of her.  What she discovered was a wealth of information which traced back to a Creole plantation along the Cane Rive in Louisiana.  Out of her research birthed the story of the lives of four strong willed women who lived during the time of slavery and experienced the contradiction of the freedoms that was granted to them by the Emancipation Proclamation in the late 1800's.  This book is a story of survival, strength, and determination to overcome the harsh realities they faced.

My thoughts...Let's recap.

Follow Friday #5/Book Blog Hop #3

Happy Follow Friday!!!

Follow Friday is brought to us by Parajunkee's View.  So, head on over there and check it out!  Congrats to this Friday's feature, Totally Obsessed!

 

Follow Friday Question:

Share your current fav television show! Tell us a bit about it...

Well, if you promise to keep a secret I'll share with you...promise?? Ok.  I (Tasha) am guilty of watching *drum roll* Gossip Girl!! Yes!!  I have gotten sucked into the tween show of lies, deceit, gossip, and sooo much more!  *sigh* Now you know my tv vice and if anyone finds out, I know you told!! LOL

 

Gossip Girl

It's just toooo much to tell!! So, check it out on Mondays 9pm Est.  (Did I just do a free ad?? lol)

Now on to the Blog Hopping!!

Hop on over to Crazy For Books and check out the rules for this weeks Blog Hop!

This week's question comes from Jen B. who blogs at I Read Banned Books:

 "Do you ever wish you would have named your blog something different?"

Nope!  Our blog name comes directly from out book club, Pg.59 Book Club, so the name was derived pretty easily.

Well time to get your follow on!  Have a great weekend!!

Tasha

 



Thursday Tales of Book Reading: "What do I do with all these books?"

Dear Pg.59,

I am an avid book reader and simply just love books!  But, I have a serious problem going on in my house.  Books are everywhere!!  On the floor, overflowing from the bookshelves, under my bed, on the counters, everywhere!!  I have run out of storage space and really want to give away or donate some of them.  Can you point me in the right direction?  Thanks for any help you can offer.

Truly yours,

Avid Book Reader

Dear Avid Book Reader,

What a wonderful problem to have!  Ok,  I don't mean to tease you... But we can definitely relate to your situation.  Here are a few suggestions for you:

1. Book Sale.  Sell those books and make a profit!! Now, we aren't saying you are going to get rich from this sale, but hey... a few extra dollars can't hurt right? Place ads in your local paper, craigslist, or other media sources and utilize flyers and signs to make sure your sale is a hit!  You may also want to check out your local flea market to set up a table there!  Check out online book sellers like amazon.com to post your books for sale through their website.  People love buying used books at low prices!  However, there may be shipping/handling fees involved.
2. Donate.  Contact your local Mom & Pop or Vintage book store (Yes, they still exist!) and ask them do they accept book donations.  Also, we discovered this organization, Chapters of Hope that accepts book donations and sends them to children all over the world.  Check out your local non profit organizations and charities to see what is available to you in your area.
   

Talk of the Town Tuesday: "All Up In My Business" by Lutishia Lovely

Hey everyone!! I am very excited about today's Talk of the Town –All Up In My Business, by Lutishia Lovely!  This is the first release in her new Business Series and is available to purchase today! 

Brief synopsis from Amazon.com



Photo Credit: lutishialovely.com



With brothers Malcolm and Toussaint Livingston at the helm, business at Taste of Soul is thriving and the family seems to have it all. But jealousy and competition threaten to tarnish their picture-perfect image.

Toussaint is a risk-taker, determined to expand the restaurant chain at a record pace, but levelheaded Malcolm insists on challenging Toussaint’s goals. And at home, there’s more heating up than grits and collard greens. Malcolm is growing weary of his marriage and his ever-expanding brood of children. His brother’s Casanova lifestyle looks more and more appealing. But Toussaint’s playboy days aren’t as carefree as Malcolm thinks. Toussaint’s met his match in interior designer Alexis St. Clair, a woman who refuses to become just another dish on this player’s mating menu. But if Toussaint has his way, the happenings in both the boardroom and the bedroom are all about to change…

Hmmm, left out some cheating, lying, deception, and a few other down low things.... (Not giving it away!) Please show your support and get a few copies! (Yes, one for you and your friends & family!)

**This Just In**

As some of you may recall (and if you don't that's cool, click here) our book club read and experienced her Hallelujah Series and was completely hooked!  So, we are certain that this series will be just as rewarding if not more!!
Pg.59, is proud to announce that Lutishia Lovely, author of the Hallelujah Love Series and new Business Series, will be our March Feature!!  *crowd cheers*  This will be our first featured author and we will be posting book reviews on her new and old releases.  She also took out the time to answer a few questions about herself and her work and we will have the interview ready for you too!! Stay tuned 'til next week!!  (Man, it's March already??)

Tasha

Motivational Monday "Take a Chill Pill!!"

"Life isn't as serious as my mind makes it out to be."
— Eckhart Tolle (A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose)

Once again our Motivational Monday is inspired from author Eckhart Tolle.  (I like this guy!)  Ok, I must admit, this one is somewhat directly at me....  :(  I am guilty of giving more energy to things that I should simply "let go".  But, my mind (ego) sometimes gets in my way and causes me all types of chaos!  Being aware of this is quite helpful as it helps me to re-direct myself.  And according to the great book of Eckhart Tolle, "Awareness is the greatest agent for change".   So, I guess half the battle is won!
 

If you have moments where you have told yourself to "chill out" or others have told you, "it's not that serious", then chances are you (like myself) have allowed your mind to give power to something that really does not deserve the energy.  I encourage you and myself to take one chill pill and relax a little!  Enjoy the moments that are the present (yes, that's a cliche) and don't throw away time to those things that are not deserving.  Have a wonderful Monday!

If you have comments, we would love your feedback!  Have a wonderful Monday!

Photo Credit:
mychinaconnection.com

Follow Friday #4



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Happy Follow/Blog Hop Friday Everyone!!
Congrats to this week's feature-Dreaming About Other Worlds!!

To participate in the following activities, visit Parajunkee's View for additional details!!

Follow Friday Question:

If you are a fan of Science Fiction what is your favorite book? If you haven't read Science Fiction before...any inkling to? Anything catch your eye?

Hmmmm, I (Tasha) actually haven't read much in the Science Fiction category.  But I would love some good suggestions?? Got any?? (LOL)

HAPPY FOLLOWING!!

 

Thursday Tales of Book Reading: "Can you get my husband to read"?

Dear Pg.59,
Last week I read the letter that a mother had sent regarding her son's reading habits.  The advice you gave to her was really good and I wanted to know what advice would you give to a wife who is trying to get her husband more involved in reading??  Thanks for your help!

Sincerely,

Reading Wife

Dear Reading Wife,
I have heard many wives and girlfriends mention how their significant others aren't into the "book thing."  One thing you may have to face is that reading books may not interest him.  However, here are a few suggestions (we aren't experts) that may trick him get him to read:

• Talk to him.  What subject matter(s) does he talk about in normal conversation?  Is it Sports? Finances? Real estate? etc??  Carefully listen to him as he talks about things in casual conversation and home in on those that he specifically is passionate about.  This will give you an idea of what genre(s) he may potentially read!  Also, ask him how he feels about books and reading in general with hopes that his response will give you some insight as well.
• Go, go, gadget e-book.  It's no secret that most men love gadgets and electronic devices!  So, once you have figured out the genre(s) he may like, get him an e-reader.  I have seen them on sale off periodically and they aren't as expensive as they once were.  Do your research on the different brands and ratings for each but you can check out the kindle here. *Note* Keep the receipt incase this doesn't work!

Follow Friday #4/Book Blog Hop #3

 Happy Follow Friday!!  Yep, its that time again! Whoo Hoo!! Hope everyone is having a great Friday.  Follow Friday is brought to all of us by Parajunkee's View.  Visit her page for follow details!Congrats Ruby's Read for being this Follow Friday's Feature! Follow Friday Question:

What is your favorite romance hero-type? Stereotype wise. Do you like the strong silent type or the brute macho man?

Hmmm...Let's see, I am going with the strong, silent (intellectual) type!  I think the "brute macho man" would eventually get on my nerves and I would be severely aggitated with him!! lol  All that EGO has to go! lol You can show strength without all the need for attention.  Brute don't necessarily make you strong...

(mentally that is) moving along...

We are also participating in the Blog Hop!! Hop on over to Crazy For Books for details!!

Blog Hop Questions:
"Tell us about one of your posts from this week and give us a link so we can read it (review or otherwise)!"

 Yesterday I responded to a mother whose 8 year old son isn't into reading ~> here.  I gave her a few suggestions, but maybe some of you have a few others that may help. Thanks!
We love comments, so leave 'em below!

 

Thursday Tales of Book Reading: "I love to read....but my kid doesn't"!!

Dear Pg.59,

Reading is a true passion that I absolutely love! It helps me relax and get away from those things that have me stressed.  While I love reading, I can't seem to get my child, 8 year old son, to get into it.  I have tried a few things but nothing seems to work.  Do you have any suggestions?  Thanks in advance!

Sincerely,

Passionate Reader

Dear Passionate Reader,

Book of the Week: "When the Cops Come Knockin'."

We at Pg.59, love to spotlight and support authors who reach out to us.  Today, we would like to showcase, When the Cops Come Knockin' by Trinity and Travis Townsend.  In their collaboration, they provide information with real life examples on what you should do if you are ever involved in a situation and the cops are called.  Many of us have may have experienced this or knows someone who has.  From traffic tickets to misdemeanors, understanding the law and knowing your individual rights are just that—YOUR RIGHTS!  This book will teach you how to assert and protect your legal rights when confronted by police officers, prosecutors and other representatives of the criminal justice system. So, take out the time and read this short illustration and educate yourselves!!   Click here for more information or to buy the book! Enjoy!

Wellness Wednesday: Michelle Obama, Putting A Stop to Childhood Obesity. Let's Move!

Photo Credit: kimoracochran.com

It has been a year since our First Lady, Michelle Obama, took a stand against childhood obesity and launched her Let's Move! Campaign.  In celebration, First Lady Michelle Obama continues to spread the message on the campaign trail and will be visiting our city (Atlanta) today to discuss the importance of getting our children active.  Click here for details...

The Lets Move! program focuses on stopping childhood obesity by:

• Educating parents about healthy eating
• Providing healthier foods in our schools
• Fostering environments that also support good nutritional choices
• Ensuring families have access to healthy, affordable food
• And, helping children become more physically active

Let's Move! aims to solve the problem of childhood obesity within a generation, so children born today will grow up healthier and live healthier lifestyles. 

Having a child of my own, I am soooo guilty of not always providing the most nutritious meals for my child.  With my schedule and hers (yes she is quite active), we are on the move with little time for home cooked meals.  But, I take an oath to do better!! I know it is going to be hard (she doesn't like to eat anything healthy, unless by force) but I am up to the challenge!! Are you??  Click here for more information about how you can get involved with Let's Move! Adults, this means you too!! Set the example!

Photo Credit: photogallery.indiatimes.com

Photo Credit: csmonitor.com

Photo Credit: zimbio.com

Photo Credi: blakparent.com

Talk of the Town Tuesday: "Harlem is Nowhere: A Journey to the Mecca of Black America."



Photo Credit: Amazon.com



Sharifa Rhodes-Pitts, Harvard graduate, essayist, and author of Harlem is Nowhere: A Journey to the Mecca of Black America, shares with us an intimate relationship and journey that she has experienced in the home of the Black Renaissance—Harlem, NY.

Inspired by an essay written by Ralph Ellison, Rhodes-Pitts delivers to us Harlem from her eyes to your heart.  As a new resident of the diverse cultural area, she propels herself into a world before her time by discovering the humble beginnings of old Harlem to its transition into the 21st century.  She conducts interviews with tourist and local residents, attends community meetings concerning local issues, talks with local street vendors, and strolls the streets of Harlem, revealing the essence of the city in which she resides. 

A few weeks ago, I came across this book in an article written by National Public Radio (NPR).  It caught my attention at first glance.  I will be getting my copy soon and reviewing it shortly!  If you have already read this book, let us know what your thoughts were!  If you plan to read it (like me), share that with us too!! Click here for more information about the book.  Enjoy!

Motivational Monday: "National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day."

BY: TASHA DILLARD

 In the observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness,Pg.59 Book Club would like to repost this article to encourage you to know your status, get tested, and practice prevention.  With new cases still existing, the importance of education and prevention is paramount. 

While prevention methods have been the primary focus, we would like you to also remember that HIV/AIDS does not discriminate and it affects all of us, not only those that are diagnosed.  It affects many of our communities, churches, recreational centers, coworkers, friends, and maybe even the person sitting next to you at a ball game.  Educate yourself about the disease and break away from the stigmas that are attached to it. 

Photo Credit: marvelynbrown.com

One remarkable individual who shares her journey with us, has been speaking publicly about HIV/AIDS since her diagnosis at age 19.  CEO, activist, and author, Marvelyn Brown, discusses in her book, The Naked Truth: Young Beautiful and (HIV) Positive, how she refused to give up on life and overcame the challenges and stigmas associated with HIV.  As a public speaker/activist, she has spoken at many colleges and universities as well as, interviewed by Oprah, Tavis Smiley, BET, MTV, VH1, and a host of other news networks and outlets. For more information about her journey, please visit her website: http://www.marvelynbrown.com/.

Since the onset of HIV/AIDS many years ago, much awareness has been brought to the disease including the creation of this awareness day.   Allow this day to inspire you to continue to get tested, know your status, and practice prevention long after today ends. 

Follow Friday #3/Book Blog Hop #2

Greetings!! Welcome to another Follow Friday/Book Blog Hop!

 Congrats Katie of Vision Quest Fail for being the feature for this week! Here is our Follow Friday question: 

What is the book you are currently 'pushing'? (Pushing mean trying to get people to read it)

Blog Hop Question:
"What are you reading now and why are you reading it?"
 

Well, our book club is currently reading Cane River by Lalita Tademy.  We would love to have you all to read with us and post your comments when we review it at the end of the month!

For info about how to participate in Follow Friday, visit Parajunkee's View.  For more info about the Blog Hop,  hope over to Crazy for Books.  Let the following begin!

Food for Thought Friday: "Humanity is now faced with a stark choice: Evolve or die.~E.Tolle

Our food for today comes from Eckhat Tolle, author and spiritual teacher, who believes that spiritual awakening lies with the transformation of consciousness.  A spiritual awakening that is seen as the next step in human evolution.  He believes the essential part of this awakening includes transcending our ego-based state of consciousness, which leads not only to personal happiness, but inner peace.

No onto the food....







"Humanity is now faced with a stark choice: Evolve or die. … If the structures of the human mind remain unchanged, we will always end up re-creating the same world, the same evils, the same dysfunction."
— Eckhart Tolle

I am sure most of you have heard, seen, or perhaps witnessed the violence around the world and more recently the chaos that is occurring in Egypt.  With so much hate, greed, selfishness, and disregard for life, one has to wonder, "Where has the love gone?"  No matter the religous denomination or belief, love is universal.  Our world is need of healing and I believe re-igniting the love for life is a good start.  For more information about Eckhart Tolle and his teachings click here.  Please leave your comments below. Thanks!

Tasha

Thursday Tales of Book Reading: "I just don't like to read...."

Dear Pg.59,

I just cannot seem to get into the "reading" thing.  I have tried buying books that seemed interesting enough or recommended by someone.  And sometimes, I even crack it open and try to begin reading.  But I don't get far before I am  bored and ready to do something else.  Then the book(s) is neglected and I walk past it watching it collect dust.  It isn't that I didn't find the book appealing.  But an overwhelming since of dread and reluctancy just to perform the act.  Crazy right??  Can you help?

Sincerely,

I hate reading.

Dear I hate reading,

No need to be upset or worried.  Everything isn't for everybody!  And I do not believe that you don't like reading in particular, you just do not enjoy sitting down (designated time) and reading a book!  You read constantly all day long—text messages, emails, advertisements, etc.  I believe it may be a connection with a past reading experience.  Maybe an earlier reading/book experience has made a certain impact on your reading habits.... just a thought.  However, I have good news for you!!  Many authors have converted their books into.....wait for it...wait for it.... audio books!!!  *crowd cheers here*  So, now you can just listen to them while driving to work or on a road trip like you do the radio!!  Quick fix!  And if there isn't an audio version available,  may I also suggest e-books or an e-reader.  Just download it straight to your pc or reader and maybe you can trick yourself into not thinking its a book!! (LOL!) I hope this helps!! 

Tasha

If you have your own personal book reading stories, please share them with us!! We would love to hear about them!!

Wellness Wednesday: "Momma was Wrong!"

by:Tasha

We all have heard them.  Those catchy health phrases that are suppose to remind us to eat right and be well....

 "An apple a day will keep the doctor away!"  

 "Feed a cold, starve a fever!"

 Well according to health.com, here are 5 health myths that you can stop stressing about! (Mom, we still love you!!)

1. Drink 8 glasses of water a day.  YES, water is great for you!  And it is mostly what your body is made of.  However, you can also obtain water through fruits, veggies (which most of us don't eat), juices, teas, coffee...yes COFFEE! (Coffee and tea are my friends, which brings me to our next myth.)

Note: If you workout, you will be losing fluids and they will need to be replaced with water or a nutritional drink!!

Review: "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett

A REVIEW
by: Tasha

Title: The Help

Author: Kathryn Stockett

Pages: 464

Publisher: Amy Einhorn Books/Putnam

ISBN-10: 0399155341

Rated: Ages 13+

Front Cover

I loved the bright yellow and gold trimmed cover.  I think the brightness of the cover is such a contrast to such a dark time for our country.  I also see it as a small light at the end of a very dark tunnel.  I find it quite interesting how the birds are arranged on the front cover as well—two stand together and one alone.  But I could be over thinking....

Background

To begin, the author starts by introducing us to some very, very interesting main and supporting characters in which she allows you to draw upon who they are as you read a little about the lives of each.  She jumps right in with the leading character and what I believe is her voice (the author) for the book. Soon after, the plot is born and things really take off, drawing you into every situation and sequential moment to come.

Without giving to much away, the story takes place in the deep south (Mississippi) during the time of Jim Crow laws, racism, and segregation.  On the brinks of what would become known as the Civil Rights Movement, three courageous women embark on a journey, that would play a small, but pivitol role in the lives of a small southern town.  This journey is one of self discovery, strength, passion, and courage as each of them are faced with the threat of judgement, imprisonment, and extreme danger.

My thoughts...

Talk of the Town Tuesday: "Cane River" by Lalita Tademy

For the month of February and also Black History Month, our book club has chosen to read Lalita Tademy's account of her family's history, Cane River.  In her introduction, Tademy explains how she resigned from her Fortune 500 career to research the history of her ancestors and shares the stories of the lives of four generations of women who were all born into slavery in Louisiana.  These stories include tales of a strict hiearchcial plantation culture, crossing of racial boundaries, and unconventional method that eventually results in freedom for the Tademy family.

I am only a few chapters into this book and I must say, I am enjoying it and it is already pretty heavy!