Well its a start...

So, this is my first year reading with the White Pine Book Club, but so far, I’ve had a good time doing so. I’m starting to wonder why I’ve never done this before actually.
Anyways, my thoughts on the books I’ve read so far….

The first book I read was After River, which I actually really enjoyed. It was quite climatic and really absorbed me into the life of Natalie (the main character). For most of the book you learn about her childhood and experiences growing up and how is affects her as an adult. It’s about the journey we all struggle through in life, connecting with your family and recovering from an emotional train wreck in life. She describes that something has happened which scars her so much from her childhood, however never exactly what it is until you come to a breaking point of your curiousity. In addition, it is shocking, yet realistic. It’s not like its just one shock either; it’s more like a series of electric jolts then what happen afterwards. I’ve heard some complaints that the white pine selection does not have enough hope and too much depression; however, Natalie finally overcomes all her hidden emotional cuts and moves beyond. The hope is secure and inspiring. I actually cried a bit too at one point. Now to me, crying means that it is one good book.

The next book I’ve finished was Gravity Journal. Now this one had some potential, with a great topic of anorexia and self-mutilation, no matter how dark it may seem. However, I would have liked to read a bit more of her life before she checked into the mental ward, to understand more fully why she chooses to destroy her self in these ways. I think it would explain a lot more and a deeper connection with Anise. Although I did think it was a good look at the lives of those who are easily overlooked by our society by shame, ignorance or doubt.

Now I am moving on to Chanda’s Wars, which so far looks like a completely different book from the first two I’ve read. And looks amazing so far!

(Oh and Capt. Holly Short shouldn’t complain about being an elf when she actually is one – and not a vampire as she might wish =P And stop being so pesstimistic too. I mean, give the books SOME credit they deserve for actually being published and all.)