Ohio Books

"Good Roots" is a lovely read, and you don't even have to be from Ohio to appreciate it! Ohio's far-flung natives recall their childhoods in bucolic times. This book will bring back memories for anyone from anyplace that they look back on with love.

I happened to see this book while checking in a pile of books the other day at the library and since I love anything that has to do with Ohio history, I thought this one would be a good read. I wasn't wrong. It is one of the most delightful gems I have read this year. Too bad there aren't any writers from the Lima/Defiance area as that is where I grew up.

The one big question I have for writers that grew up in Ohio ~~ why aren't you back home in your home state?

The essays themselves are wonderful ~~ and so true of Ohioans. In spite of what people might say about Ohio, Ohio really is a beautiful state. It doesn't have an ocean (I know that Lake Erie doesn't really count) or mountains ~~ but it is full of peaceful rolling hills, farm lands, forests (especially in southeastern Ohio) and it is where my family have lived for over 200 years.

I don't know if I have a favorite essay or not but the ones that I do like a lot are PJ O'Rourke's ~~ he cracked me up especially with his use of sarcasm. I also enjoyed Dan Cryer's essay about growing up in Findlay. Mark Winegardner's essay about growing up in Bryan is also a good one. I am familiar with both of those towns and can definitely relate to the mindset of the people there.

This isn't just all essays ~~ there are poems in there too. This is such a delightful book that every serious reader should have a copy of in his/her library. It represents the best of what Ohio has to offer ~~ and I can honestly say, I am proud to be a Buckeye girl.

11-9-07

This book will make you proud to be from Ohio, if you are an Ohioan. For non-Ohioans, this book is still a great read--you probably have more in common with fly-over country than you think you do. The selections and genres are widely varied, so if you don't like one, read a different one. There's something in this book for everyone. My personal favorites are P.J. O'Rourke's piece, and Mike Winegardner's afterword.

Good Roots is good stuff; it is a collection of over 20 essays and poems about growing up in Ohio by writers who grew up in places like Toledo, Findlay, Shaker Heights and Athens, to name just a few. On page 148, one of the writers Anthony Doerr writes, "You bury your childhood everywhere you go. It just waits for you, all your life to come dig it back up." Good Roots is about growing up in Ohio, but you don't have to be from there to enjoy this charming collection. You just have to be from somewhere because that is where it will take you. Although places that I grew up in the northeast might be different from Maple Heights or Portage County, Ohio, universal truths abound. P.J. O'Rourke writes about one on page 44 when he cites an example of what he refers to as Toledo teen critique: "There's nothing to do around here. Nothing ever happens." But not all truths in Good Roots are universal. For instance, in Andrea Louie's piece on page 151 she begins, "I used to castrate sheep." I must admit that as a teen I was often bored but castrating sheep was never an option.

In her introduction the editor of Good Roots Lisa Watts speaks of "a pervasive lack of pretension" that can be found in many of these Ohio towns, a feature that "strengthens creative souls." I suspect that there is a little of that small-town-America-feel in all of us wherever we are from. I highly recommend that you read Good Roots. Don't be surprised to find your way back to long-forgotten childhood memories or to discover your "inner Ohio."

THIS IS A DEF. READ!!! I read this and couldnt put it down! Parents get up and go get this book because you'll love it and your kids will too. I want my kids to read something thats not about sex and bad things so i got this and i loved it and so did my kids so i would say that you should go get it!!

What are you gonna do if your mother wants to wreck your life? She's "searching for herself" in the faraway commune, so Frances gets to spend the summer with her weird nerdy aunt Blue. But somewhere along the way, her good intentions toward Everett, her little brother who had to go with mom, turn to crisis when the money she sent him becomes his getaway stash. Terrific writing that will inspire you to write, great characters, this one should be a perennial read aloud for end of the year 6th graders.

When I first started reading the Grass Angel, which I had purchased earlier in the day for my grandson, I was lying in bed late at night and figured I would just check it out before falling off to dreamland. I started turning the page, and another page, and another. After a while I wasn't aware of anything but the story spinning off...to where? Yes, the tale was one that would grab and delight a sixth grader, but there was a complexity that was so real, so thick with emotion and confusion and... I was totally with this kid, wondering what kind of a parent would take off like that. Uh, oh. Didn't my wife and I leave our oldest son on his own at probably the same age. But not with an aunt who was so bizarre, so dysfunctional, so totally unsympathetic. Then the transformations. The daughter...the mom...and that wizard of an aunt. Hey, this was not just a kid's book. This was a book to delight any adult and to educate us all to the power of possibility and change.

Washington Post (4/18/04): Book of the Week:

Perhaps this has happened to you. Your parents say they are going somewhere. You
don't want to go. They say that doesn't matter, you're going. You say they can't make you. They say, okay, they'll go without you! Usually one of you gives in. But not 11-year-old Frances Cressen... Nothing about the summer, or her life, is turning out like aunt, not her mother, not even herself. With everything falling apart, the question is whether she and her family will find the wisdom, and the love, that it will take to put it all back together.

Chris put a lot of hard work in to this book (as well as her others, I know because I know her personally. And the result of her hard work is a well written, entertaining book, that has brought her success. I suggest that everyone buy it - it's great for around the camp fire, or those long road trips, or when you just want a nice book to read at night.

If you like true ghost stories, you can't miss this book! All of the Haunted Ohio series are great, but this one is my favorite. Chilling stuff like a haunted covered-over swimming pool at Stivers Middle School (gulp!), the many ghosts of Dayton's USAF museum, and a strange drum with something rustling inside (sure, it sounds harmless enough, but wait till you read the story). Plus time warps, poltergiests and just about any type of haunted building you can think of! Not to mention some great stories of unknown creatures. I usually don't find bigfoot stories very scary, but two in this book -- "Buckeye Bigfoots" and "Bigfoot in Greene County"-- really gave me a major case of the willies! And if you can sleep after reading the "Harmful Haunts" chapter ... well, you've either got ice water in your veins or else (gasp!) you're already a ghost yourself! Buy this book today -- you're guaranteed to lose some sleep!

Chris Woodyard always has such intriguing introductions to her books. In Haunted Ohio she talked about second sight running in her family. Now in the II volume she talks about being haunted herself as she collected the stories and about readers she's met and their experiences after reading her first book. I think she should write an entire book of these stories alone.

In the chapter Things That Go Bump in the Night, she explores the poltergeist phenomenon. Woodyard says, "Poltergeists rarely produce apparitions or a spirit with "personality." It's been my experience that a noisy apparition is a ghost not a poltergeist so I disagree with that statement especially since other spirits can become attracted to the released energy.

Many of the places the author went to personally and records her impressions along with those of her interview subject. I found this book as scary and well written as Woodyard's last. I label Haunted Ohio II a spook-tacular read!

I love to read books. As soon as I am done with one, I have to get another, and I had been eyeing Haunted Ohio in the bookstore at the mall, and my curiosity got the better of me. And I am glad it did! I loved the book! It really struck home with me. It also put a fright into me! I found that I could only read it during the daylight hours, or I would lose some sleep!! The book was wonderful, and my mother thought so to, she called me everyday to see if I was done reading it so that she could borrow it! And now that she is half-way through, she calls asking if I bought the next one yet because she wants to borrow that one too!!!

Once again Chris Woodyard has put together a compendium of hauntingly scary and thrilling tales! Though the main focus of her books is ghosts, she always delves a bit into other types of paranormal phenomena. Her prologue story "The Flames", about a very vivid premonition complete with scent stimuli, was particularly nightmarish.

Woodyard says that denial "makes people crazy-not necessarily living with ghosts, but denying that anything unusual is going on." I couldn't agree more! If the state of Ohio is looked at as a case study, one realizes just how widespread this phenomenon is.

The Haunted Ohio series are great reads to increase your adrenalin output, whether on you're own or shared with friends, on a chilly October night. I'm proud to say that I own an autographed copy of this book! I'll definitely be ordering volume IV!

in saying I got lucky and have the chance of meeting Chris Woodyard. in fact I got a signed copy of this book and I don't think I'll ever part with it. I love her style, and the fact that she's researched so much of these tales so close to home it's great!

I would love to account for the input of the ghost of Sansbury Hall at Ohio Dominican College in Columbus, Oh. I have experienced the ghost and what she does and would like to talk to chris personally about it. I can give a more up to date account of what has been going on at ODC. THIS tale is REAL and FREAKY. Chris, ples e-mail me to find out more on the story. (I am not sure as to which of your books this story about the college appeared, sorry.)

Another winner in Chris's fantastic Haunted Ohio series! Inside you'll find haunted houses, cemetaries, workplaces, hospitals, etc. Plus the many ghosts of Cleveland's Franklin Castle and lots of haunted objects (you may never buy antiques again!). Be sure not to miss "The Web of Fear" and "Many Mansions" (creepy stuff!!). The "Highways to Hell" chapter will give you a few bad nights! There's even an appendix of "mini" ghosts stories that will intrigue you for sure. You can't beat the Haunted Ohio series!

How much of what you choose to do and say is influenced by your interior life? Most of us smuggle the contraband of our dreams in our pockets, existing part-time in an isolating underground that no one ever sees, as do the characters in _High Times in Fabulous Toledo_.

Lily James' people live parallel lives that only intersect when a ludicrously botched kidnapping forces them to confront the glaring difference between what they have imagined their lives and themselves to be, and who they really are.

This story is a hilariously tragic fable that pierces the truth of our fantasy lives. Lily James shows us how our imaginary identities both shape our authentic selves, and isolate us from one another. A fast, funny romp that left me hoping for more from this young and brilliant author.

I want Lily James to write about my kidnapping! ... or at least about my hometown!
This is one quirky tale about a kidnapping gone very wrong. Two parts love, one part terror, added to a heavy dose of comedic BRILLIANCE and you've got a book you'll want to read again and again.
Lily James' ability to crawl beneath the skin of her characters and drag you along with her is uncanny and terrific - not to mention terrifying and exhilerating.
This is a Hal Hartley film waiting to be made. Hear that HAL HARTLEY?? You need to make this movie!!
This and _The Great Taste of Straight People_ make me a permanent member of the Lily James fan club.

Lily James is as fearless a writer as anybody on the planet. She does things with her narrative that I've never seen done before, and does it in a way that is thoroughly entertaining and readable. This is a difficult book to describe, because it doesn't really fit into any one genre. I should say that I didn't come to this book as an unbiased reader, since Lily and I both belong to the same e-mail list for writers. I wouldn't have bought it, though, if I didn't like the way Lily wrote in general; and I wouldn't be writing this review if I didn't genuinely love the book. So buy it, read it, and enjoy Lily's unique way of telling a story. You won't be disappointed.

"High Drama in Fabulous Toledo" is a funny, readable, delightful novel from an author I will be watching. If you like women's fiction but long for something truly original and fresh, THIS IS IT. Her writing style just carries you along - it's a compelling and new way of getting to know a character - which makes it one of those books you can't wait to get back to. Adventure and philosophy, sociology and brain studies fans will find much to think about here, all in the form of an entertaining read.

I have been to Holmes County before, and this book accuratly and beautifully shows the Amish of Ohio! I would (and have!) reccomend this book to anyone who loves beautiful photograhy, the Amish, and Holmes County! I couldn't put it down! I would LOVE to own this book!

A wonderfully done pictoral of Holmes County, Ohio. After visiting there, it's a lovely reminder of the people and places. The pictures and stories capture the beauty and simplicity of the Amish/Mennonite communities in Holmes County. This book brings back wonderful memories.

A 2003 Independent Publisher award finalist, and winner of the Benjamin Franklin Award of the Publishers Marketing Association, Holmespun: An Intimate Port-rait Of An Amish And Mennonite Community is a lavishly presented portrait of life in Amish and Mennonite communities. Photographers Amanda Lumry and Loren Wengerd effectively collaborate to produce a thoroughly fascinating and visually wonderful presentation filled with captivating color photographs which are complemented by an informed and absorbing text written by Laura Hurwitz and describing the events of daily life. Holmespun is a simply wonderful addition to personal photography book collections and recommended for community library collections seeking to include commendable materials for readers seeking information on Amish and Mennonite lifestyles and communities.

This book is truly amazing! In this day and age, you would never know that a community of that nature still existed. With the hustle and bustle of my daily routine (I consider my family an "Average American Family"), it really makes you want to live the life of the Amish and Mennonite families. I live in the suburbs of Sacramento and their lifestyle is completely foreign to me. After looking at all of the wonderful photographs, I immediately wanted to cook a home cooked meal and a pie from scratch. I would truly love to visit Holmes County one day and see these kind, hard-working people firsthand. I am going to give this book as a gift to my mother, both of my sisters and my close friends. I know they will enjoy it as much as I have.

Common sense 'conversations' on subjects every family deals with. A good read/reminder of what is truly important. Each subject/chapter has value and helps you regain a meaningful perspective!

Dr. Dobson has compiled this thought-provoking book on child-rearing and marriage. He obviously has "been there" with stories and also professional insight into many subjects on children and relationships. I would highly recommended this wonderful, beautifully-done book! I have not read any of his publications before, but I am anxious to look for them in the future.

This book is very inspirational and helpful in putting family time and matters into perspective. Mr. Dobson once again proves that family is very important and having a Christian home is the most important!

This little book is a source of invaluable insight. My husband and I read one message a night and feel we get great benefit from the wisdom imparted and the special quiet time, as well. Dobson's years of experience with families and children shines through in the poignant passages and ideas presented. This book helps us think about family and child-rearing issues before we face them. Overall, it's a great read for all parents.

Great book. I bought two of them. One for my brother who is about to get married and one for my sister-in-law-to-be, who just excepted Jesus Christ as her Savior.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is seeking the true nature of the Father. Max has done it again, his words are clear, his meaning concise...to the point. This isn't simply a book for a graduating teen, it is a book for anyone in need of a roadmap for the journey. I read this book in the course of an hour today, at the mall, while my husband Christmas shopped for me, and I walked away renewed. You will go back to this book again and again!

I received this book when I graduated from high school and I was on my way to college, and it was by far the most precious gift I received. I laughed, cried, but most of all, I felt totally and completely loved! Max Lucado brings simple every day problems, concerns, and fears and shows that in everything God is there to love and encourage us, as only a Heavenly Father can do. What an awesome thought!

I've loved this book so much that besides having a copy of my own , I've given this book to people as gifts when they have life changes from a new job, or total career change, or a new baby, or a new home or new marriage. It is so good to know that though you may not know what the next step is in your journey or where the road is going to lead or turn, that you are not alone and that Jesus Christ is walking beside you every step of the way. He's leading you and guiding you through mountains, hills, valleys and streams. READ THIS BOOK !!! You won't be sorry and you'll discover your own joy in the journey.

first read this in 1979-80. truly an experience that stays with you. only one other book has had a lasting effect on the depths of my being: robert pirsigs'zen & the art of motorcycle maintanence'. every 'man' needs to explore Frank Waters gift. every 'man' needs to give this to his 'son'.

In this book, Martiniano, the main character, struggles to achieve a homeostasis amongst confining to the laws of the whites while still keeping the values, norms, and beliefs of his older Native American culture. There are a few sublots involving a religious sight that all come together to make a compelling conclusion to a beautifully written novel. The imagery involved within the piece make The MAn Who Killed The Deer a defined and rather extraordinary novel. It is a timeless claassic which should be read and enjoyed by all who still care about making themselves better persons.

This is a subtle, poignant novel which explores cultural conflicts and personal struggles for identity and interbeing. It concludes with an awareness of the inevitable oneness of all people within the rhythms of the earth. The novel made me contemplate my own values and relationships. It moved me to tears and quiet joy. It gave me a strong sense of my place as a human being in the web of life. I did not want the book to end. Martiniano, the man who killed the deer, is a vivd, honest character who will remain in my mind

It helps to have visited the village of Taos to appreciate this novel dealing with the tribes sacred Blue Lake and metaphysical power. Given the circumstances of the plot, its unfolding has intense meaning to all who seek their souls true identy. The narrative insidiously leads from one attitude to another, from what was learned to what is felt. Going "back to the blanket" is an imperceptible reunion with the customs of the past that moves man to become what he really is and/or wants to be. The beauty of the idea can affect deeply readers searching for their own unincumbered identity and peace.

Oxmoor House Publishing has compiled a beautiful book, with gorgeous full color photographs and complete pattern instructions for 28 celebrated Mountain Mist designs. Travel through the 1930's and 40's, when life was simple and quilting was a national pastime. See part of the Mountain Mist Historical Quilt Collection and make these traditional designs using updated techniques for quicker, easier quilt making. Mountain Mist Quilt Favorites is a lovely, long awaited quilt book to add to your collection.

As an employee of Mountain Mist and as a quilt maker, it was a pleasure to work with Oxmoor House Publishing to create this book. With more than 150 quilts in our corporate collection, the question has been asked repeatedly when a color book would be available. Now it is! Mountain Mist is known for the beautiful applique floral designs. They devote half the book to applique and the other half are pieced quilt patterns. The quilt admirer will enjoy leafing through Mountain Mist Quilt Favorites. It offers designs for quilters of all levels of experience, from beginners to experienced.

I purchased this book a few months ago. I find myself looking through it often--not being able to choose which pattern I want to start with!! There is a nice selection of pieced and appliqued quilts in varying degrees of difficulty. It is well worth the price and a great addition to any quilter's library.

This book has everything. Beautiful colors, great instructions geared to modern day quilters. Everyone should want a copy!

This book is a must for fans of 1930's (and later) American quilts. I hope the publisher is planning to put out a second volume!