California Books

I have been intrigued with the idea of having a meal at The Brown Derby since the first time I saw Lucille Ball dump a plate of spaghetti (a classic Derby dish, as it turns out) on William Holden's head. Alas, the era of The Derby is long gone, but this book, Brown Derby Restaurant takes you on a journey back in time when stars table hopped and coveted having their famous faces caricatured to grace the walls of these distinctive restaurants. That's right, there wasn't just one "Derby" but many different versions of the original, which is something I did not know until I read this book. I'll let the next reader of this book discover for themselves all the different incarnations of "The Derby." That was quite interesting, because they were all so different from one another and completely different from the original. The photographs of the celebrity patrons are wonderful and its fun to see them out socializing and not in character.
In the text recipes from the restaurants are included. I found these recipes to be quite ordinary and not very imaginative, but then you have to realize the era and the clientle. Just because Gary Cooper, Myrna Loy (Native Montanians), Carole Lombard, (Indiana), Clark Gable, (O-o-o-ohio!), and Robert Mitchum (Connecticut), were glamorous moviestars, in the end they were simple folk who probably just wanted a decent pork chop. At the Derby restaurants, they could do that. I wouldn't go out of my way to reinact any of these recipes unless I was babysitting a finicky toddler. All in all, this was a real page turner though and my husband enjoyed it as well.

I have a Brown Derby "LIVE AT CHARLEY BROWN'S" ink stamp in good condition from the legendary club.
This item is circa the 1960's/1970's.
Anyone interested in this item email me at rxeno@radiox.net.

A priceless photo collection of Hollywood Stars that have never been released or seen since the 1940's and 1950's. The photos are from the late Sally and Bob Cobb's personal photo collection and some photos were taken by Geroge Hurrell. The stories are captivating, heart warming and a part of Hollywood history that is a must for movie buffs and the novice a like. Clark Gable and Bob Cobb spent many years together, hunting and fishing. One night after the kitchen at the Durby was closed, Bob mixed a salad together made mostly from left overs. Since that night the famous salad has been referred to as the "Cobb Salad". The story that best describes the Cobbs is the one story about the WWII soldier..very touching! A great gift or a nice coffee table conversation item!

Anyone who is interested in old Hollywood must read this book.It is not only filled with pictures andrecipes, but nostalgia and history ofbygone days.Robert Cobb, not only owned the BrownDerby, but also owned a baseball team.The Hollywood Stars of the Pacific Coast League was in existence from 1939to 1957. The Los Angeles Dodgers cameWest in 1958 and the Stars were gone.The book was co-written by Sally Cobb,widow of the owner. Her personal thoughts and love are written throughout this book. I personally ama collector of old menu's and a historian regarding the Pacific CoastLeague. I certainly was fascinated andwrapped up in the book.

Who today could know anything about the Brown Derby restaurant and not immediately recall what generated its legendary fame? Was it the food? The service? The décor? The clientele? Of course it's a given that all these were truly exceptional, yet none adequately explains how any Tom, Dick, or Harry from Kalamazoo would be so well acquainted with the name of this particular restaurant. After all, they were not patrons. For us non-celebrities, the Brown Derby probably entered our world through the hilarious exploits of Lucille Ball in the television situation comedy "I Love Lucy" in which she starred along with husband Desi Arnaz. Who can forget Lucy's attempts to be "discovered" by a studio executive, or to get a closer look at William Holden, at the Brown Derby?

If you lived in greater Los Angeles at that time, you might have heard live KNX 1070 News Radio broadcasts at noon from the Brown Derby, and the question of the day would always be, "Tell us, George, who's at the Brown Derby today?" That was how Lucy knew which celebrities were at the Brown Derby. And, because Lucy knew, all of America knew: this Brown Derby restaurant was the stars' favorite gathering place.

So, what's the point of this review? Simply the sad fact that "George," the maître d', radio announcer, friend of Robert Cobb, and the central figure to all the famous patrons at the Brown Derby restaurant, is no where to be seen in any of the multitude of celebrity photographs in the book. It had to be the most deliberative, vexing, and laborious part of Mrs. Cobb's work in producing this incomplete book to find enough photographs that somehow did not show a trace of Mr. George Aguilera among the celebrity patrons. It was no oversight. Word is that following Mr. Cobb's death, major differences arose between the Head Waiter and Mrs. Cobb as to business practices, and that Mr. Aguilera took an uncompromising stand in favor of maintaining the renowned level of quality, rather than to expand the tourist element, and in so doing, risk losing the exceptional level of service of which he was justifiably proud to offer his friends. This book is testament to the bitter parting of ways that resulted. How ironic then, that Mr. Aguilera's face, commonly seen on Brown Derby advertising billboards that said, "Go see George...," appears nowhere in this book of photographs. Nor will you find any evidence that the man who announced to the world the presence of his famous dining guests, his friends, was ever there himself. I rate this book as missing at least one star.

You gotta love Stienstra,a lifetime of info on hundreds of fishin spots

This book is a must have for anyone fishing in the state of California. I wish Tom would write one for every state. I don't fish any body of water in California until I look it up in this book. However, I agree with Alex. Tom really should write more about SHORE fishing. We don't all have boats.

When I first moved to California 9 years ago I picked this up and have worn out my copy. A tremendously helpful reference that has introduced me to some of the most wonderful fishing spots I've ever enjoyed. There are many more I've read about that I can't wait to try.

I've seen a number of California fishing books but this one is simply the best. Whether you are flyfishing or using spinning tackle, you want to know the lay of the land, where to fish, when to go, how to get there, who to talk to. This book answers all those things. It is an excellent comprehensive introduction to the fishable waters of California. Excellent maps, directions, and local guides/services for further advice. It breaks down all the areas of California into discrete geographic segments then gives detailed information on the area.

It is clear that Stienstra is an experienced fisherman whether it is on the fly, lures, or bait. This book is for the true fisherman and covers all the offshore, inshore, and freshwater fishing available throughout California. I cannot recommend this book enough. There are so many bad books on fishing and flyfishing, where the authors spout on and on about their theories and thoughts. This is a book that is more like a reference guide and is an essential resource. The author is very well versed in freshwater and saltwater fishing and the writing is straightforward, with opinions registered when they are needed.

Great book for the average fisherman who didn't grow up in Mt. Shasta, Calif. Tom raves about the fishing in Lake Siskiyou, not realizing that the dam ruined some of the best stream fishing I have ever seen. Of course, that was 30 or so years ago. Still, around that area, and I'm not telling where, there are still native trout in small streams located on the Mt. Eddy side. When I say native, I don't mean real native. Those Mt. Eddy lakes and streams were planted years ago, mostly by the CCC. In fact, my father, Eugene Babcock, planted the Mumbo Lakes Basin by mule train when he was with the CCC. I'm now 56 and those easy hikes into the Mumbo Lakes Basin are now hard hikes. If you head to Dobkins or Durney or Eddy Crater lakes without proper gear and physical fitness, you are headed for trouble. Otherwise, this is a great book with true fishing guidelines for Siskiyou, Modoc and Plumas counties. Tom, quit giving away my favorite fishing places.....

Cliff Babcock

California Ghosting is a fitting continuation in Mr. Hills supernatural genre. So far the trio I've read keep me on the lookout for the next William Hill release. Dawn of the Vampire, Vampires Kiss, California Ghosting. Vampire Hunters is next on my list, Mr. Hill will have to write fast to have the next book available before I have finish it.

Have already read the book twice and recommend it for readers of all ages. Mr. Hill has a command of the English language and has an exciting writing style.

A visit to Ghostal Shores is worth the price of admission. My favorite aspect was the characters. They were realistic and full of life, even the ghosts. California Ghosting is a nice twist on the haunted house theme, blending action, suspense, mystery and romance at a fluid pace that keeps moving faster and faster. I could clearly see the characters and the resort. This would make a great movie!

As the characters evolve, and the plot thickens, California Ghosting creates an entirely enchanting environment for a who-dunnit. Point Reyes has been thoroughly researched and times gone by have been totally recreated in the now. The ghostal characters can be vividly imagined, due to the extensive descriptions of each individual personna and their lively intereactions not only the living, but with each other as well. Mix these ingredients with a dash of romance amongst the living, a sense of humor, and supsense, and there exists a novel that will keep you reading.

William Hill's "California Ghosting" is a well-rounded mix of mystery, suspense and fantasy, filled with interesting individuals. Even if I wasn't pulled along nicely by the plot (and I certainly was), I would have kept turning pages just to see what the people (and ghosts) in the story would do next. I particularly liked some of the subtler elements, like the interactions between some of the "fully-fleshed" ghost characters and various two-dimensional, "real" minor characters . . .

Thank you so much for the wonderful cookbook. It is filled with great recipes that are tried and true.

This cookbook was given to me when it was first published. I have used it ever since and today the cover has finally fallen off but it is still very much in use.

I haven't prepared a recipe in here that isn't fantastic. The presentation always amazes guests as they think whatever is made took hours and hours.

Like others have said, the recipes are not that difficult and stand the test of time.

Thank you so much for the cookbook. I received it in a timely manner and it was in perfect condition. What a wonderful way to receive a book that was impossible to find before.

I received this cookbook in the hardback edition from a friend back in 1980. I have used and used it over and over again. There are many favorites that I have used again and again; the Tahoe Brunch and Lasagne, to name only two. Buy it an see for yourself!!

The copy of the book I purchased was a present for one of my children. I have used the California Heritage Cookbook for 20 years. Every recipe I have made was good--to the extent that I do not hesitate to serve what appears to be a truly strange combination of ingredients to company. My favorite cookbook (and I collect cookbooks).

This is our bible for all our rentals. The disc has all the forms you'll need, backed up by the part of the law that applies. If you have rentals in California, this should be your guide to staying out of trouble.

I have been a landlord for 12 years. Every few years I purchase a revised version just to be sure that laws haven't changed that I should know about. This book is a must if you have rentals in California. It is very easy to understand, it has all the forms you may need on CD and can be referred to quickly when questions come up. I feel I am a better landlord because of this book. I have also loaned it to my friends when they felt that their landlord had not be treating them fairly. They also found it very helpful. I wouldn't be without it.

I read through the book before renting my place, and it provided me with very useful tips on the legality of various aspects of renting one's place. It also had templates and forms which were very handy, in drawing up a lease, issuing a receipt or generating a checklist. I would recommend this book for any landlord, whether you are renting out one house or multiple.

If you're in the real estate rental business in the state of California you need this book to start out, survive, and thrive in this business. The NOLO books are written by lawyers for lay people.

The "California Landlord's Law Book: Rights and Responsibilities" covers all ground and gives you more than a legal or business understanding of real estate rental (rare but detrimental scenarios and important topics are discussed, such as Discrimination, Self-Help Evictions, Landlord's Liabilities for Dangerous Conditions and Criminal Acts, etc.)

This law book also contains all the forms you will need, both at the end as apendix and on a CD. The book is very thorough and every new edition stays abreast with the latest rental law changes in California. The only downside (unavoidable) is that every so often NOLO publishes a new edition thus somewhat outdaing previous ones.

This was the only book I needed to become a landlord in California. With the included forms on CD, I was able to easily create a lease for my tenants and feel confident that I was doing everything legally. I read the relevant sections of the book and will keep it on hand if any rental problems show up. I am very satisfied with the book selection.

Some good ideas, but it just wasn't enough for me. Seemed to be lacking, you can get most of the info online if you look hard enough.

Finally, a well-written reducing/lifestyle change plan. Dr. Logan compiles everything you need in one comprehensive book without being `way out there' or a `silver bullet'. The California Wine Country Diet is truly an enjoyable lifestyle change. It is do-able, enjoyable, straightforward and sensible. I have done many diet plans and have found them to be impracticable or impossible to follow in the real world. Dr. Logan's plan is easy to follow; so easy that any gourmet recipe can easily fit into the meal plan guidelines provided one exercises portion control. I have been able to eat well and still enjoy my Castello blue cheese, Kashi TLC crackers and glass of local Chambercin. Ching, Ching to you Dr. Logan!

Now California wine country is into the diet business. This one is for the wine lovers!

This book is fantastic! I love the recipes! I think it is great that the book provides more information than just "the diet". This book really shows how to incorporate a new lifestyle rather than just a diet. I love how it shows a way to enjoy food and have an indulgence, but still have a healthy lifestyle for a lifetime. Excellent Job!!

Make wellness and weight management a pleasure not a trial through the latest diet book to advocate a different program, CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY DIET: THE INDULGENT APPROACH TO MANAGING YOUR WEIGHT. Recipes come from some of the state's most renowned chefs and provide a blend of nutritionally appealing dishes with meal plans you can live with. Learn to eat seasonally, locally, and diversely using a diet which is appealing and diverse.

Yet again, Shriley Murphy has filled my reading world with the delight of cats. Joe Grey and Dulcie have become friends as have their human pals. Not only have I enjoyed all of her books to date, but have made certain that all of my family and friends meet these wonderful characters as well. My only hope is that Ms Murphy continues to regale us with the adventures of these marvelous cats.
The only down side to getting these books is that I find myself still turning the pages in the wee hours of the night!!!

MY WIFE AND I READ ALOUD TO EACH OTHER (THE OLD FASHIONED WAY, WITH PRINTED BOOKS). MRS. MURPHY'S CAT WORKS ARE GREAT FOR THIS USE.

WE BOTH RECOMMEND STARTING WITH "CATSWOLD PORTAL", THEN BEGINING WITH THE FIRST IN THE SERIES AND PROGRESSING FROM THERE. THIS MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO GAIN SOME BACKROUND, BUILD ON THE DELIGHTFUL JOE GREY CHARACTERS AS WELL AS THE MORAL AND SOCIO-POLITICAL COMMENTARY AS WELL AS COMMON SENSE ADVICE WHICH ENRICH THESE WORKS.

MAKE NO MISTAKE. WHEN READING THESE BOOKS, ONE IS IN THE HANDS OF A WISE MASTER STORYTELLER! WE ARE BUSY ASSEMBLING HER PAST WORKS, WHICH ARE PLENTIFUL. IT'S OUR ONLY CHOICE, AS WE'VE READ ALL 12 OR 13 JOE GREY MYSTERY WORKS AND ARE WAITING FOR THE FEB, 2009 RELEASE ON A NEW ONE.

WE READ AN INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR, WHO MENTIONED "...CROSS THEIR GRAVES" AS PERHAPS HER FAVORITE. WE WOULD AGREE WHOLEHEARTEDLY...IT IS OURS ALSO.

HAPPY READING!

For any cat or mystery lover I highly recommend this book. It is written very well and keeps you on the edge of your seat. You won't want to put the book down. And when you are finished reading this book you will crave more of the Joe Grey Mysteries written by the delightful author Shirley Rousseau Murphy. She has a way of making you visualize the town and its delightful scenery and the mystery just wraps around you. If you have a cat you may find yourself looking at him or her in a completely different light as Ms. Murphy brings the cats in her stories to such believable life. And the other characters involved are charming and real weaving you right into the story right along with them.Cat Cross Their Graves: A Joe Grey Mystery (Joe Grey Mysteries)

It starts with a murder: Kit, the youngest of the three talking cats of Molena Point, discovers the body of a former film star in the stairwell of the hotel she owns. But there's more going on in the arty little California town. Joe Grey's long-time friend and partner Dulcie has a secret that's affecting their relationship: a young girl is hiding out in a hidden room in the basement of the town library, and Dulcie doesn't feel free to tell anyone about her. Then Cora Lee French, one of three senior ladies living in a recently-purchased old house on the edge of the canyon, finds a grave in the back yard. Worse, it's one of several--and even worse, the remains are those of children.

To the police, each of these things is a separate case. But Joe and his friends know there's a connection. And so there proves to be, but only a cat could draw together the threads and bring this complex affair to a satisfactory conclusion. Meanwhile, Dulcie unexpectedly learns something of her own roots. And readers who are especially fond of little Kit will be pleased to find that she plays a large part in the ultimate success, although her role begins more or less by accident. This may be the best Joe Grey mystery to date (although hints about the upcoming one suggest it will top them all). As always, there's an excellent "sense of place" in the vignettes of the town, and all the familiar cast members--Clyde Damen, Wilma Getz, Max and Charlie Harper, Dallas Garza, Ryan Flannery--reappear as well. No fan of cat mysteries should miss it.

If you love cat mysteries, read this book. It's a great page turner, and you'll be sorry when it ends. Murphy keeps you guessing, and you'll be eager to know what happens. If you've never read her before, this is a good one to start with. This is my favorite book in her series (I have read all of them) and it follows the footsteps of some of my favorite cat mystery author, Lilian Jackson Braun's books. Murphy will surely keep her audience entertained and coming back for more.

I caught this exhibition at the Indiana State Museum while it was on a nationwide tour. It was so interesting that I took full advantage of my museum membership and came back and saw it several times while it was here in Indianapolis. I picked up the book as the exhibit was winding down but only recently read the well-written introductory essays that make up the first 35 pages or so of the book.

Cheech Marin has created a high-quality full color text of this travelling show which is mostly comprised of pieces from his own personal collection. Marin's taste tends to run towards political art, but there is plenty that speaks of life for artists who are both Chicano and American, as the exhibition title (also the book title) imply.

Artists that grabbed my attention include:

Carlos Almaraz - his car crash paintings were gigantic attention getters in the gallaries. His other works are great as well.

David Botello - his Monet-like style is fascinating.

One of the best paintings may well be "Janine at 39, Mother of Twins" by Margaret Garcia. Cheech Marin's comment on page 67 hits it on the head: "If there is a visual definition of the lushness, the strength, and the beauty of women, this painting is it."

Cesar Martinez's "Hombre que le Gustan las Mujeres (The Man who Loves Women)" is funny and a sadly realistic portrayal of the ways that men see women.

Patssi Valdez was the painter that stole the show in Indianapolis, at least from the comments I heard. Her pictures are so bright and have the power to mae the viewer feel as though he or she is being drawn in to the canvas, especially with works like "Room on the Verge." Another painting of hers graces the cover of the book.

I did not care for the works of a couple of established artists: Gronk and Mel Casas. The Casas pieces in this show seemed less like a work of art and more like very large, not very clever political cartoons. That being said, it was entirely appropriate to include their works considering their standing in the Chicano art movement.

I bought this book for my brother (artist) and he loved it! it had a great collection of chicano art throughout Los Angeles. Any 'Chicano artist' would like to take a look at other inspiring work.

Cheech Marin has collected some of the most amazing, enthralling pictures (paintings, drawings, etc.) by Chicano artists that I've come across! This book is such a rich collection to own because some of us can't afford to buy art, but we can look again & again at the copies he's put together. There are well-known artists, unknown artists, and people I'm thrilled to have found out about because their work is so brilliant. Some places where I've seen "Chicano" art collected before have stuck to one style, very pastely, very soft colors, a certain women's painting style that has its place but isn't representative. This book isn't like that. Marin has collected paintings of incredible scenes, showing car wreck victims, cholos, lovers embracing, a drive-by shooting in progress, a freeway accident, & a police shake down to name a few. The "realist" aspect of these pictures is so entertaining that it will provide owners of the book hours of transfixing study & discussion! Buy it!

Absolutely breathtaking. A great addition to my collection.

I am insanely jealous of Cheech Marin's art collection, or at least those pieces that are featured in this book. A true artist is one who can make the ugly beautiful, or at least make you look at it with a different perspective, such as David Botello's "Alone and Together Under the Freeway"

Frank Romero's "Arrest of the Paleteros" is tragic and funny at the same time, with the hapless ice cream sellers lined against a wall in front of robot-like cops.

Adan Hernandez' "Sin Titulo II", while not owned by Marin, is included in this book, and gives a peeping-Tom's eye view of a family's living room-it is stunningly beautiful and menacing at the same time. Other works in this book are excellent, and it is inspiring for any artist in a rut, who needs a fresh look at some unusual talents.

The second Milford-Haven novel, chronicling life in a small coastal town, Closer Than You Think is the at times romantic, at times mysterious sequel to "What the Heart Knows". Award-winning writer Mara Purl deepens the intrigue amid Milford-Haven in the wake of a reporter's sudden disappearance and a deputy's search to find him. Gossip, crooked building schemes, eavesdropping, indiscretions and more intersect in a virtually Byzantine network, in this captivating window into the little battles, victories, successes, and failings of ordinary people in a complicated world.

As assistant director of the Mathews Memorial Library, I have made sure the Milford-Haven novels have been entered into our collection and they are now circulating. Patrons have enjoyed reading this series and we look forward to Mara Purl's next installment!

Both of the first two in Mara Purl's series of "Milford-Haven" novels were excellent. "What The Heart Knows" and "Closer Than You Think" were most enjoyable and entertaining. Once I got into them, I couldn't put them down!

As a reporter for the Japan Times in Tokyo (where Mara Purl grew up), I've followed Mara's career for a long time, and have lately mentioned her novels in my column. My only question is...do I have to wait 10 more books to find out what happened to Chris???

I have so much fun reading Mara Purl's books! I just finished Closer Than You Think, after not having been able to put down What the Heart Knows last weekend. I couldn't have chosen better books for the pure enjoyment of reading a good story. I'm so glad I read them! Now, please tell the author to get the next Ten in her series written!

I really enjoyed "Don't Know Where, Don't Know When".

Hannah and Alex Diaz and Brandon Clark arrive in England during World War 2, with a mystery to solve. The kids from this century, find themselves unprepared for the world of war torn England. The children encounter air raids, evacuations, and hand-me down clothes. Since food is rationed, they often eat dry bread and cakes. The rules are strict and can require firm punishments.

Alex and Hannah are taken in by Mrs. D, a strict woman, who takes the children into her home and under her wing. Alex takes his new environment as a challenge and an adventure. Hannah often opens her mouth and says inappropriate things, which cause trouble for all involved.

Brandon is separated from his friends, not only by being in a different home, but a different time in history, where he is required to work for his room and board.

Join in the adventure of Hannah, Alex and Brandon, as they travel into the past and bring back lessons they can use in the future.

Jill Ammon Vanderwood,
author: Through the Rug
Through The Rug: Follow That Dog (Through the Rug)Stowaway: The San Francisco Adventures of Sara, the Pineapple Cat

My sister is 13 years old and she despises books. After much begging and pleading I finally convinced her to read Don't Know Where, Don't Know When. Here's what she had to say:
That was a really good book. I loved it. I read a lil bit every night. I like those kids in the book. I would so read it again.
Don't Know Where, Don't Know When is the first book my sister has read and actually ENJOYED!!

Don't Know Where, Don't Know When is an amazingly engaging book written very well. A good friend of mine recommended me to read it and after I asked what it was like, she responded that it was a bit like Harry Potter only with history. Now that I've read it, I agree. No, there's no wands or boarding school, but there is the magic of time travel and of characters that take you to another place and time. As I read the book, I marveled at some of the things that the kids, Alex, Hannah, and Brandon, encountered and wondered to myself "could this actually be the way it was then?" I found that these things were true.
Annette Laing is a wonderful writer who grabs you with her style. I highly suggest this book for anyone at all.

This brought back my son's love of reading again. We found it under 'Historical Fiction' which is a bit of a stretch. They do talk about history, but not as much as their adventure. I would like to see more history in subsequent novels. My son loved the characters, especially Alex!

Don't Know Where, Don't Know When is a story of many people and times. Hannah and Alex Dias, two young teens from California have just been transplanted from the home they have always known to another world, otherwise known as Snipesville, Georgia. With its private luxury communities in the middle of cotton fields and mall known far and wide as the Small, Snipesville is the last place on earth Hannah wants to be.
Brandon Clark, born and raised in Snipesville, has one ambition: to get out, to be one of the "Big Shots" who leave black Snipesville and make a name for themselves in the wider world. However, Brandon's future seems to stretch before him, planned by his parents, like the grim parades of death that leave the family funeral home.
When Hannah, Alex, and Brandon are drawn together by their mutual differences and isolation, unlikely events begin to unfurl. Brandon's discovery of a British World War II national registration identity card and the appearance of a mysterious woman known as The Professor lead the children on a time travel journey spanning two World Wars and nearly one hundred years. The only clue to the mystery: Find George Braithwaite.
Don't Know Where, Don't Know When is author Annette Laing's first foray into the world of children's literature. It is the promising if slightly raw beginning of a series that has the potential to be great. Those familiar with Maiya Williams time travel series (The Golden Hour, The Hour of the Cobra) will find good grounds for comparison. The differences? Laing's use of social and/or cultural history is easier and more accurate, and there is an absolute avoidance of declaring a moral (not that this excludes the reader from finding one (or more).
The Characters: Hannah is a nightmare. I have never met a child like her (and thank my lucky stars that is so), but I have it on good authority that children like her really do exist. She speaks to everyone, regardless of age or relationship, with snotty abandon, no fear of physical punishment, or even as far and I can see, grounding, blunting her sarcastic tongue. Even those of us not in favor of spanking children cheer when one indomitable British dame finally gives Hannah her just desserts. By the end of the book she is not noticeably changed in attitude, but decidedly challenged in outlook by late experiences.
Alex is largely a secondary character in this book, with no real chances for expression. There are, however, hints of future importance and even leadership to look forward to.
The story built around Brandon is very interesting. Both of the father figures in his life, real life and time travel, are named Gordon. The wives are imposing (and in Mrs. Gordon's case, downright nasty) and there is an idolized older brother figure who looms large but is never really seen. It is lovely to see the confidence and self possession Brandon gains with the Gordons's that he seems to lack with his own family. Speaking of the Gordons, the daughter Peggy is a wonderfully despicable and yet pathetic character, because you have to wonder if it is her own weakness of character, an acceptance of family prejudice, or the troubles she has had to endure that have so warped her opinions. Peggy plays an important, if secondary and sometimes unrecognizable role throughout the story.
The real jewel of this Story is Mrs. D, who I will leave you to discover for yourself. She is a lovely and lovingly portrayed example of all the strong, staunch, somewhat undemonstrative women who kept Britain going during the horrendous years of World War II.
Do yourself a favor: read this book and read it carefully. At times it is a bit difficult to work your way through the teenage angst, especially in the first two or three chapters. Children may not find any of this distracting. By the time you reach chapters five and six you won't care any longer; you will be too involved in the lives and worlds being lived on the pages before you.This book is appropriate for the ages specified and beyond. Paying close attention will reward the reader with clues and hints as to the future of the series. Enjoy.