Iron Heart by Brian Boyle
Recommended by Tuki in Adult Services…
Tuki’s synopsis:
This is an amazing story about the indomitable human spirit and the resilience and inner strength of one young man. Brian Boyle, a star athlete had just graduated high school on his way to college when tragedy stuck. He was involved in a head on collision with a dump truck that should have killed him. Instead it left him in a vegetative state with severe injuries. This book is about his determination to fight back and take control of his life and come back strong. He not only survives his ordeal but three and a half years later crosses the finish line at the Ironman Triathlon in Kona, Hawaii.
She says:
Amazingly inspirational and makes you marvel at the strength of the human spirit.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Recommended by Beth in Youth Services…
Beth’s synopsis:
Henrietta Lacks was a poor black Southern woman who died of cancer nearly 60 years ago, but her cells have become “immortal” in the science world. Henrietta’s cells – taken without her knowledge – have helped lead to medical discoveries including a vaccine for polio, gene mapping and information about cancer and viruses.
She says:
Henrietta’s story is astonishing in many ways, including her family’s stories and the medical advancements made from just one cell culture, making it quite a compelling read!
Kabul Beauty School: An American Woman Goes Behind the Veil by Deborah Rodriguez
Recommended by Beth in Youth Services…
Beth’s synopsis:
An American hairdresser travels to Afghanistan as part of a humanitarian aid organization and decides to start a beauty school for women. She must deal with funding issues, language barriers, and cultural customs that are different from what she is used to in America.
She says:
This book gives you a moving look into the experiences of many women that the author meets in Afghanistan. It is also inspiring to read what one woman can do to help out people in need.
Losing Mum and Pup: a Memoir by Christopher Buckley
Recommended by Colleen in Outreach Services…
Colleen’s synopsis:
Christopher Buckley tells the story of the year in which he lost both of his parents. He was the only child of William F. Buckley Jr. and Patricia Taylor Buckley. Even with the grim details of his parents’ failing health Mr. Buckley is able to maintain his sense of humor.
She says:
I listened to this book on CD read by the author. Although Christopher Buckley has his own voice and speaking style he is definitely his father’s son. I enjoyed the inside look into the lives of the rich and famous and politically connected Buckley family. The author lets you know that he loves his parents as he puts a human face on iconic people and events with a great sense of humor.
Crow Lake by Mary Lawson
Recommended by Colleen in Outreach Services…
Colleen’s synopsis:
This story is told by an 8 year old girl whose parents are killed in an accident and how her entire world is changed by what happens to her and her siblings during the year that follows. They live in a small farming town in upper Ontario and the beauty and brutality of the land is well portrayed.
She says:
I enjoyed this book. The characters are interesting and the struggles that these teenage boys go through to keep their family together are very relatable. There is an element of mystery to the story that I found a little predictable but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
