September Bookclub- Fiction

September was all about clearing some books and magazines off the shelf.

The early part of September was full of Magazines:

2 Oprahs; 2 Running; 2 Real Simple; Progressive; Mother Jones; and 2 Bust.

The later part included a few novels:

Lamb by Christopher Moore

This was an entertaining read. It was just irreverent enough without being over the top or offensive on purpose. It could have been offensive, but those would be some serious pious people. I liked the portrayal of Jesus- Joshua as a seeker and ultimately a sacrifice to prove a point rather than as a completely selfless act. I also appreciated the portrayal of Mary Magadelene as an actual disciple, not a whore or girlfriend. Biff was by far the best part and was perfectly real enough to make the story work.  I liked it enough to check out some other Moore reads when I feel as if I only need to be entertained.

Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian

Eh? It was interesting, but as a mental health professional there were parts that were a little much.  The main character’s breakdown was a little to rushed and not nuanced enough. Her friends and families reaction to the signs and signals were right on though. Also, difficult to deal with was the perfect coincidence that the main character some how ended up working with and caring for the father of her attacker. Overall- entertaining enough, but I expected more.  I liked Midwives and Before You Know Kindness, so I might check out another Bohjalian book but likely from the library.

End of September brought another magazine and the start of Foxfire by Joyce Carol Oates- this one will probably continue into October and may get a mention there.