Dear Mrs. Bird

 

Well I’ve been struggling to finish reading Dear Mrs. Bird by AJ Pearce. It’s not that there’s anything really wrong with the book, and it got good reviews. 

It’s just that I can’t seem to really get lost in it enough to want to return to find out what happens next. I’ve literally been “reading” this book for a month now, and I’m only about halfway through. The sad thing is that this is not even a long book. 

I don’t know why I’m so opposed to not finishing a book? I decided tonight to put it back on the shelf. I must admit it’s not the book for me, and life is too short to not enjoy what I’m reading. 

Is this a dilemma for you?

Update: I went ahead and finished the book. It actually was pretty good, and I learned more about how London suffered during WWII. If you enjoy this book it actually is first in a series that you might want to check out. 

The Personal Librarian

I just finished reading The Personal Librarian co-authored by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. 

This book is based on the life of Belle da Costa Greene, the personal librarian and art curator for millionaire J.P. Morgan. It takes place beginning around 1905.

What is fascinating about this story is that Belle is an African American who is “passing” as white in a world full of strict restrictions as far as the races are concerned. 

The decision to live as white was made by her mother, and was made at the cost of losing her husband who was an early civil rights advocate. 

Although, Belle goes on to be extremely successful and regarded, this is achieved through great sacrifice on her own part. Her fear of being discovered lives with her daily, and results in the decision not to marry in fear that a child of her own might reveal her secret. 

Belle’s intelligence, instincts and wit make her a fascinating individual, and her relationship with J.P. Morgan was truly one of a kind. 

I highly recommend this book for two reasons. One because it is the story of an amazing woman, and two because it reflects a time in our history not to be forgotten. 

The Morgan Library and Museum is open to the public in New York City.