Our Missing Hearts; Celeste Ng
Penguin Audio - 2022
(library download) - 9 hours 51 min
Narrated by: Lucy Liu, Celeste Ng
I've read and enjoyed everything Celeste Ng has written so I couldn't wait for my audio reserve of her latest book to become available. This book is quite different - a bit of a mystery with with a dystopian theme.
Noah Gardner (his mother calls him Bird) is a twelve-year-old boy who lives with his father in a dormitory at the university where his father works at the library. Their life is one of order and routine ever since the "Crisis" changed everything for their family and his mother, a Chinese American poet, disappeared from their lives. At school he is learning new things and around him things are happening which he is desperate to understand. For example, why Asian Americans like his family are looked down upon and viewed by others with a mistrustful eye. In school Noah hears the taunts that his mother is a traitor. The boy has no friends except for Sadie and, one day she mysteriously disappears. as well
This is a story though set in the near future seems frighteningly realistic as to what we've seen on television or read about happening here in some parts of the United States to targeted race groups including child parent separations. The audio book was mostly riveting; although a somewhat sad story, it is one that will stick with most readers I suspect.
RATING - 4/5 stars
Length: 9 h
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Left on Tenth: A Second Chance at Life; Delia Ephron
Little Brown and Company - 2022
Library Download - 7 hours 39 min
read by author - good
In her newly released memoir, Delia Ephron, successful novelist, screenwriter, playwrite and lover of all things that the Big Apple has to offer gives readers a glimpse at her second chance at life.
After losing her husband Jerry to a cancer diagnosis, an op-ed essay that Delia wrote for the New York Times earned her a surprise contact by a man from her past and a second chance at love. Her new relationship is tested when Delia, like her sister Nora, learns that she has (AML) a fast progressing form of leukemia and that her only chance at survival is a successful bone marrow transplant. Instead of running away from the very ill 72 year-old-woman, Peter, her new found love, asks Delia to marry him.
This memoir is indeed a second chance at love and life. Told with humor and, yes, there is at times some sadness too, but the writing was wonderful. I love that the audio was read by the author.
RATING - 4.5/5 stars
Current Reads
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The premise of Our Missing Hearts sounds like it does sadly hit a little close to home.
ReplyDeleteIt sure does and that is why it's a bit disconcerting at times.
DeleteI just read a review of John Irving's new book earlier today. I'll be very interested to see what you think of it.
ReplyDeleteIt is typical John Irving. I'm liking it but taking it slow - while driving, cooking etc and most of the month to read -- should finish this week.
DeleteI hear the new John Irving is good, but really long. I hope you enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteVery long, and, the kind of story that you come to expect from this author. should finish this week.
DeleteThx for these reviews. I was wondering about the Ng novel and so glad the Delia memoir is enjoyable. I will try to get it. Can't wait to hear what you think of the Irving novel ... I have a copy but haven't even started. So long!
ReplyDeleteThe Irving novel for me is one that I listen to while driving and, then a few chapters at a time while cooking or relaxing. I like it but, it's taking me most of the month but, I don't mind taking it slow.
DeleteI was wondering whether Left on Tenth would work for me. Reading about a cancer diagnosis and death of a spouse but, she does it so well. I recommend it.
ReplyDeleteI've been interested in Celeste Ng's books too ever since Little Fires Everywhere. I need to make time to try her work.
ReplyDeleteGreg, I love her writing style, I hope you get a chance to try her new book.
DeleteI have the audio of Left on Tenth on my Nonfiction November list. Really looking forward to it!
ReplyDeleteYes, I got lucky with these two!
ReplyDeleteI think you will enjoy listening; she is so very real.As the narrator of her memoir her voice works:)
ReplyDeleteI wondered if Delia was any relation to Nora and you confirmed that in your description. I enjoyed a book of essays by Nora and this book looks like it mighyt be interesting too. How're you keeping, Diane?
ReplyDeleteHi Cath - yes, Nora is one of several Ephron sisters. This was a good memoir. I'm doing well - just emailed you.
DeleteThe Good Sister is on my wishlist. I hope you enjoy your books.
ReplyDeleteThe Good Sister was excellent - my book group loved it too. Sorry I haven't been participating on Tuesday with FCFPTI but, life has been a bit unfair, first my own health concerns and now my husband. Hope to blog again when times are not as stressful.
DeleteI've enjoyed Celeste Ng's books so I'm definitely looking forward to her latest release. :)
ReplyDeleteHer latest is different but very good.
DeleteHi Diane,
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to learn what you thought about The Last Chairlift! It's on my list, definitely. In other news, due to your positive review, I'm currently listening to and enjoying Delia Ephron's memoir. Thanks!
I Judith, I haven't been blogging or reading due to some curveballs life has thrown my way but, wanted to respond to your comment. I enjoyed The Last Chairlift - no review yet-- but, I did think it was too long. I hope you are enjoiying Ephron's memoir. I liked it a lot.
ReplyDeleteHmm, it's interesting that the new Celeste Ng's has dystopian elements. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Ghosts of Martha's Vineyard sounds good!
ReplyDelete