by Kit Darling

In March we discussed Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. The story is told by Jacob, now in his nineties and living in a retirement home, about his experiences as a circus Vet during the Depression. Jacob finds himself penniless and an orphan after his parents die in an accident. He quits his studies as a veterinarian at Cornell, hops a train and finds himself with a seedy circus. A glimpse in to the dark side of circus life behind the tinsel. Both uplifting and tragic; a love story and a murder and with an elephant named Rosie as a main character. A well crafted and very readable book. Recommended

And here are some recommended reads from our members, all of which are available from the Hamilton Public Library. Visit the Bookmobile at Bennetto Recreation Centre on Tuesday (2:30 to 4:30) and Thursday (6:00 to 8:00).

Book: The Lady in Gold by Anne-Marie O’Connor

This true story has all the elements of love, wealth, society, artists, & war that will keep the reader enthralled. Vienna is the setting where Gustav Klimt painted Adele Bloch-Bauer, The Lady in Gold. The painting all but disappeared during World War II. Once the Austrian government returned the painting to the Jewish family of Adele almost 60 years later, it was sold for $135 million. A riveting social history. (Paige Turner)

The Emerald Lie by Ken Bruen

Set in Galway, Ireland, this is the latest in the series featuring (former) Garda Officer Jack Taylor. As jack descends into depression and despair, he is searching to discover the identity of, and to stop, a serial killer who is triggered by the use of bad grammar. Gritty and dark with satisfying solutions to mysteries (yes there are 2 to be solved) this book can be read by someone new to the series although reviewers suggest that staring with earlier novels might be good. Hamilton Public Library has a long list available. A satisfying read.  (Kit)

Have you read any of our recommendations? Liked any of the same books we talked about or disagreed totally? Let us know at bayareabookclub@bell.net .