Gilded: How Newport Became America's Richest Resort by Deborah Davis

Disappointing: I wish it had focused more on the cottages in their heyday and less on gossipy personalities.

The Last Bookstore in America by Amy Stewart

Brilliant and hilarious.

In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord

I read this to the boys. Meh.

The President Is a Sick Man by Matthew Algeo

I imagine a lot of readers will feel put out by what seems like a short tale padded with irrelevant filler, but I found the digressions charming. This is a great slice of history; recommended.

The publisher provided me with a digital review copy of this book.

State of Wonder by Ann Patchett

Lyrical writing, a suspenseful story, and trenchant social commentary. Recommended.

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

Very moving.

Half-Assed: A Weight-Loss Memoir by Jennette Fulda

Funny and interesting.

Black Water Rising by Attica Locke

I loved this--a great combination of intersting story, social commentary, and local color.

The Big Short by Michael Lewis

Fascinating. Highly recommended.

The Cabinet of Curiosities by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

Decent fluff.

Honolulu by Alan Brennert

Lovely. This and Molokai secure Brennart's place as one of my very favorite writers of historical fiction. Recommended.