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Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Summer Secrets in Books

Feb 13, 2018  
SS
Summer Secrets
Jane Green | 2015
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Cat is a journalist in London, divorced, and raising her daughter. Earlier, her mother had revealed a secret about Cat's past -- the identity of her true father. When Cat journeyed to Nantucket to meet him - and her two half sisters - something bad happened, and it traumatized her. Now she's a recovering alcoholic and wondering if she can right the wrongs from her long ago meeting with her estranged family.

This was an enjoyable read - the story goes back and forth with flashbacks, which helps build up the suspense. Some of the plot is a little outlandish, but it's a fast read and fun. It's a little painful to read sometimes; Cat can certainly be a frustrating character at times, and you just want to shake her. (Also, I don't recommend reading this if you're triggered by reading alcoholism scenes.) However, present day Cat is a relatable character, for the most part, and fun to root for. Her two half sisters, Julia and Ellie, are pieces of work in themselves, and the book presents a fairly realistic look at modern day family and sisterhood. Overall, probably 3.5 stars.
  
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Bookapotamus (289 KP) rated Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays in Books

May 29, 2018  
Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays
Barrel Fever: Stories and Essays
David Sedaris | 1995
6
7.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
I'm a HUGE David Sedaris fan but this was not my favorite. This was written in 1994, his early years of being published, and he has definitely improved with age. He's still trying to find his voice and clearly we all know he does! "Me Talk Pretty One Day", "Naked", and "When You Are Engulfed in Flames" are proof of that.

"Santaland Diaries" is an exception - I give that 5 stars alone, his recollections about being a mall elf at Macy's are hysterical to say the least, and you glimpse true Sedaris wit and satire. If you want to read a better Sedaris book, that also includes "Santaland Diaries", read "Holidays on Ice" and it's also published there for your reading pleasure!

Some bits of these stories are fun and witty, but I found most a bit angry, a little disturbing in parts and somewhat tiresome. The immaturity in his early writing is definitely evident, but it's classic Sedaris at the root of the stories... and we know it only gets better from here. A true Sedaris fan should read it for sure either way.
  
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Andy K (10823 KP) rated Eighth Grade (2018) in Movies

Jan 7, 2019 (Updated Jan 7, 2019)  
Eighth Grade (2018)
Eighth Grade (2018)
2018 | Comedy
9
7.3 (23 Ratings)
Movie Rating Watch
Being a teenager today must be so difficult.
Having raised 3 teenage kids myself, I can commiserate wholeheartedly with the experience of attending middle and high school in the social media age and what new and complex challenges they have to deal with.

I have often thought kids these days should have some sort of class or education on not placing their lives out there for all to see.

Kayla's school year is awkward and someone lonely as she juggles her own insecurities, relationships and changes within herself. Her need for acceptance makes her step out of her comfort zone and put herself in some interesting situations along the way.

I loved this movie so much as I was able to relate to her plight as I have seen these emotions from my own kids and was able to laugh and cry with them along the way.

Golden Globe nominee Elsie Fisher is exceptional as Kayla. We go along with her journey, quickly get swept up in her life and root for her to succeed and triumph as she ascends to high school.

Loved this film!
                    
  
Show all 3 comments.
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Andy K (10823 KP) Apr 9, 2019

That's all right. I love differing opinions on movies. That is what makes the world go round. I guess I felt more connected since I remember when my kids dealt with issues similar to those in the film. Thanks for the comment!
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Lee (2222 KP) Apr 10, 2019

@HString I was beginning to think I was the only one that wasn't blown away by this. I've seen nothing but high praise for this online and at my screening on Monday people were walking out too!