Book Review by Reader Maid
Here's another review from my friend Reader Maid who relishes a good mystery with strong characters.
What Is Mine - by Anne Holt
"Now you've got what you deserved," states the note attached to Kim Oksøy's body when it is mysteriously returned to his home. Five-year-old Kim had been taken from his bedroom during the night just six days after eight-year-old Emilie Selbu disappeared while walking home from school. Even more puzzling, Kim's autopsy failed to find a cause of death while Emilie's fate remains unknown.
Detective Chief Inspector Adam Stubo of the Norwegian National Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS) very much wants lawyer/psychologist Johanne Vik to serve as profiler on the case. After all, Vik had taken an FBI profiling course in the U.S. several years ago and came highly recommended by her F.B.I. Instructor. She had also authored a research paper on sexually motivated crimes.
But Vik wants nothing to do with these disappearances. As the single mother of a four-year-old, she doesn't want to think about crimes against children. Yet she is currently working on a project to prove the innocence of Aksel Seier, a man convicted of the brutal murder of an eight-year-old girl more than thirty years ago who was released from prison without explanation after serving just a few years of his sentence. A former attorney who worked on Seier's parole application has been haunted by his case and would like to confirm his innocence before she dies. Vik has agreed to find Seier and investigate his case.
With "What Is Mine," Anne Holt has crafted a riveting mystery told from multiple perspectives in which much of the information about the crimes and characters is scattered among several narrative threads. Holt proves an expert storyteller, dangling details in just the right tantalizing amounts to create a great page-turner whose two central characters have lives that extend beyond the plot to form narratives of their own. Readers should not miss this complex and satisfying mystery.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Monday, February 21, 2011
The Edge of the Gulf
Book Review by Reader Maid
Here's another review from my friend Reader Maid who favors the very best in international crime fiction.
I'd like to read this one and see if I like Hury's character's movie reviews.
The Edge of the Gulf - by Hadley Hury
Hadley Hury's debut novel, "The Edge of the Gulf" first published in 2003, shows a great deal of promise--likeable characters, great setting, and an engaging if somewhat unrealistic plot. Unfortunately, other elements prevent this otherwise engrossing work from achieving its full potential.
The book opens on Florida's Emerald Coast where Charlie Brompton, a wealthy, childless man has amassed a small fortune in real estate assets, including two very popular restaurants and a significant holding of undeveloped beach property. He plans to put the beach property, worth at least one hundred million, in a trust to ensure its environmental preservation but has not yet changed his will that bequeaths his estate to his cousin, Peter Cullen, now deceased.
His only remaining blood relative is Peter's son, Charles (Chaz), recently married, who appears to have finally overcome his misspent youth and is operating a successful art business in Atlanta. Also recently Charlie's old friend, Hudson DeForest, struggling to move on from the loss of his wife two years earlier, has finally returned for the summer to his nearby cabin to work on a collection of film critiques for his soon-to-be-published book and to rejoin the circle of caring neighbors after a self-imposed absence.
Into this close-knit group come Chaz and his bride, a pair so beautiful and so perfect they turn heads wherever they go. The tension of the narrative derives from the newlyweds' plot to get their hands on Charlie's beach property before he can change his will.
While Hury displays considerable talent in manipulating the storyline for maximum suspense and the narrative itself provides solid entertainment, I found the constant interruption by film reviews both contrived and pretentious. If I had wanted to read a collection of movie critiques I would have bought a book of movie critiques and not a mystery/thriller. Perhaps Hury was trying to expand an otherwise short novel but I would rather he had worked just a bit harder on the plot and left the reviews on the cutting room floor.
Here's another review from my friend Reader Maid who favors the very best in international crime fiction.
I'd like to read this one and see if I like Hury's character's movie reviews.
The Edge of the Gulf - by Hadley Hury
Hadley Hury's debut novel, "The Edge of the Gulf" first published in 2003, shows a great deal of promise--likeable characters, great setting, and an engaging if somewhat unrealistic plot. Unfortunately, other elements prevent this otherwise engrossing work from achieving its full potential.
The book opens on Florida's Emerald Coast where Charlie Brompton, a wealthy, childless man has amassed a small fortune in real estate assets, including two very popular restaurants and a significant holding of undeveloped beach property. He plans to put the beach property, worth at least one hundred million, in a trust to ensure its environmental preservation but has not yet changed his will that bequeaths his estate to his cousin, Peter Cullen, now deceased.
His only remaining blood relative is Peter's son, Charles (Chaz), recently married, who appears to have finally overcome his misspent youth and is operating a successful art business in Atlanta. Also recently Charlie's old friend, Hudson DeForest, struggling to move on from the loss of his wife two years earlier, has finally returned for the summer to his nearby cabin to work on a collection of film critiques for his soon-to-be-published book and to rejoin the circle of caring neighbors after a self-imposed absence.
Into this close-knit group come Chaz and his bride, a pair so beautiful and so perfect they turn heads wherever they go. The tension of the narrative derives from the newlyweds' plot to get their hands on Charlie's beach property before he can change his will.
While Hury displays considerable talent in manipulating the storyline for maximum suspense and the narrative itself provides solid entertainment, I found the constant interruption by film reviews both contrived and pretentious. If I had wanted to read a collection of movie critiques I would have bought a book of movie critiques and not a mystery/thriller. Perhaps Hury was trying to expand an otherwise short novel but I would rather he had worked just a bit harder on the plot and left the reviews on the cutting room floor.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Downtown Olathe Art Festival - Call For Artists
Our goal is to take advantage of our historic small town atmosphere as we provide a gracious and rewarding festival for both exhibitors and attendees alike. Come be a part of our ongoing story!
Wide-ranging advertising will be provided. In addition, flyers will be available for each artist to send to their own mailing list. There is no admission fee for spectators.
Booth placement and assignments will be determined by the festival committee. We are anticipating that we will have room for up to 80 artist booths. Set up time is between 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Friday, June 10, 2011.
For more information: http://www.downtownolatheartsfestival.org/ArtistApplication.html
Scavenger Saturdays - Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Scavenger Saturdays for Families
Saturday, February 19, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Hone your art detective skills and discover something new about contemporary art!
Children and adults may pick up a self-guided activity at the Visitor Services Desk and follow clues on an "ART-astic" adventure.
When finished, children may pick up a take-home, art-making activity kit.
No reservations are required.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
4420 Warwick Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri 64111
For more information: http://www.kemperart.org/
Saturday, February 19, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Hone your art detective skills and discover something new about contemporary art!
Children and adults may pick up a self-guided activity at the Visitor Services Desk and follow clues on an "ART-astic" adventure.
When finished, children may pick up a take-home, art-making activity kit.
No reservations are required.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
4420 Warwick Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri 64111
For more information: http://www.kemperart.org/
College Night: Pattern ID - Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Tonight - Friday, February 18, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Take a break from the books and slip into the galleries!
College students are invited to explore Pattern ID with students from the University of Kansas. The night also includes music, activities, and refreshments.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Free admission - Free parking
4420 Warwick Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri 64111
Tel 816-753-5784
For more information: http://www.kemperart.org/
Take a break from the books and slip into the galleries!
College students are invited to explore Pattern ID with students from the University of Kansas. The night also includes music, activities, and refreshments.
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
Free admission - Free parking
4420 Warwick Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri 64111
Tel 816-753-5784
For more information: http://www.kemperart.org/
Tips for Effectively Critiquing Manuscripts
Done right, manuscript critiques are an important part of any successful writing group and can lead to publication for many of the group's members. But there are definitely "tricks of the trade" when it comes to critiquing manucripts within a group setting.
Suzanne Lieurance is the author of 23 published books, a freelance writer, Internet radio talk show host, and the Working Writer's Coach. As an instructor for the Institute of Children's Literature from 2000 to 2008, she critiqued hundreds, if not thousands, of manuscripts. Throughout her career as a writer and writing coach, she has created and led many writers' critique groups.
Join Suzanne Lieurance on April 6 at Johnson County Central Resource Library, 9875 West 87th Street, Overland Park, KS for this informal session when Lieurance will share many "tricks of the trade" for effectively critiquing manuscripts. The session will be in the Carmack Community Room from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
Suzanne Lieurance is the author of 23 published books, a freelance writer, Internet radio talk show host, and the Working Writer's Coach. As an instructor for the Institute of Children's Literature from 2000 to 2008, she critiqued hundreds, if not thousands, of manuscripts. Throughout her career as a writer and writing coach, she has created and led many writers' critique groups.
Join Suzanne Lieurance on April 6 at Johnson County Central Resource Library, 9875 West 87th Street, Overland Park, KS for this informal session when Lieurance will share many "tricks of the trade" for effectively critiquing manuscripts. The session will be in the Carmack Community Room from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
Watch the Oscars at The Armour in NKC
Watch the Academy Awards on Sunday, February 27th, in live HD on the big screen at The Armour!
It's free and there will be food and drink specials all night.
The fun starts at 6:00. Screenland Armour, 408 Armour Rd., North Kansas City, MO - 816.421.9700.
It's free and there will be food and drink specials all night.
The fun starts at 6:00. Screenland Armour, 408 Armour Rd., North Kansas City, MO - 816.421.9700.
KanMoWriCollectives and Other KC Area Writing Collectives
KanMoWriCollectives and Other KC Area Writing Collectives
PoetT announces nine "write-ins" in the Kansas City metro area, at 4 different locations. Most of these groups were created to create a community for writers and aspiring writers who were involved in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and/or Script Frenzy (Screnzy). Look them up online for more information.
That doesn't mean you have to participate in NaNoWriMo or Screnzy to participate in the write ins. If you might like writing your own thing in the presence of others who are writing their own thing, give it a try.
Maybe one of these opportunities to write along with some of your fellow KanMoWriCollectivites will suit you.
~<>~
1st & 3rd Sundays
Feb. 20
6pm - 10pm
Roasterie Café, 6223 Brookside Blvd., Kansas City, MO
Google maps: http://tinyurl.com/4rhq4nj
host: poetT (though I don't always wear my black hat outside November, I try to set up a write-in tabletop paper-tent)
~<>~
Mondays
Feb. 21, 28
6:30pm - 10:00pm
Olathe Borders, 15350 West 119th Street, Olathe, KS
Google maps: http://tinyurl.com/4b8qsrg
host: DanyelleFerguson (see her photo on the her NaNo user page)
~<>~
2nd & 4th Wednesdays
Feb. 23
Time: 6:30-10 pm (Come for all or part of the time)
Roasterie Café, 4511 W. 119th St, Leawood, KS (One Nineteen Center/strip mall)
Google maps: http://tinyurl.com/4d4pgsu
host: muccino in the red scarf
~<>~
1st & 3rd Wednesdays
7:00-8:30 p.m.
From the Winter Activities booklet: Johnson County Library Writing Group; ...
Join other writers in exercises, discussion and sharing. Bring samples of your writing to share, or start something new.
On April 6, they'll have a presentation (everybody welcome) on critique in writing groups: http://tinyurl.com/4q3u2bs
~<>~
4th Thursday
Feb. 24
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Mid-Continent Public Library, 1000 N.E. Colbern Rd., Lee's Summit, MO
http://tinyurl.com/4ekzpqd
host: Mackenziethegreat
Thanks to Teri/PoetT who sent this information.
http://www.nanowrimo.org/eng/node/164
PoetT announces nine "write-ins" in the Kansas City metro area, at 4 different locations. Most of these groups were created to create a community for writers and aspiring writers who were involved in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and/or Script Frenzy (Screnzy). Look them up online for more information.
That doesn't mean you have to participate in NaNoWriMo or Screnzy to participate in the write ins. If you might like writing your own thing in the presence of others who are writing their own thing, give it a try.
Maybe one of these opportunities to write along with some of your fellow KanMoWriCollectivites will suit you.
~<>~
1st & 3rd Sundays
Feb. 20
6pm - 10pm
Roasterie Café, 6223 Brookside Blvd., Kansas City, MO
Google maps: http://tinyurl.com/4rhq4nj
host: poetT (though I don't always wear my black hat outside November, I try to set up a write-in tabletop paper-tent)
~<>~
Mondays
Feb. 21, 28
6:30pm - 10:00pm
Olathe Borders, 15350 West 119th Street, Olathe, KS
Google maps: http://tinyurl.com/4b8qsrg
host: DanyelleFerguson (see her photo on the her NaNo user page)
~<>~
2nd & 4th Wednesdays
Feb. 23
Time: 6:30-10 pm (Come for all or part of the time)
Roasterie Café, 4511 W. 119th St, Leawood, KS (One Nineteen Center/strip mall)
Google maps: http://tinyurl.com/4d4pgsu
host: muccino in the red scarf
~<>~
1st & 3rd Wednesdays
7:00-8:30 p.m.
From the Winter Activities booklet: Johnson County Library Writing Group; ...
Join other writers in exercises, discussion and sharing. Bring samples of your writing to share, or start something new.
On April 6, they'll have a presentation (everybody welcome) on critique in writing groups: http://tinyurl.com/4q3u2bs
~<>~
4th Thursday
Feb. 24
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Mid-Continent Public Library, 1000 N.E. Colbern Rd., Lee's Summit, MO
http://tinyurl.com/4ekzpqd
host: Mackenziethegreat
Thanks to Teri/PoetT who sent this information.
http://www.nanowrimo.org/eng/node/164
Rocky Horror Picture Show - Screenland Crossroads
"The Rocky Horror Picture Show" Returns to Screenland Crossroads on Saturday, February 19th at 10:00.
Tickets are $8 and prop bags are available for $3 at the door. Includes a live floor show that features adult content that is not rated. Not recommended for ages under 18.
To reserve tickets in advance: http://www.screenland. Screenland Theatre at the Crossroads, 1656 Washington, Kansas City, MO 816.421.9700
Tickets are $8 and prop bags are available for $3 at the door. Includes a live floor show that features adult content that is not rated. Not recommended for ages under 18.
Henry Bloch and Tom Bloch in Conversation at NAMA
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (NAMA) invites the public to attend a conversation between Business Council founder Henry Bloch and his son Tom, author of the new book, Many Happy Returns-The Story of Henry Bloch, America's Tax Man. Henry's rise from a tiny office to become the founder of a national industry is an inspiring personal story.
The conversation will be Friday, March 25 at 6 p.m. in the Atkins Auditorium with happy hour and book signing at 7 p.m. in the Atkins Foyer. General admission tickets are $5. You may pre-purchase the book and one ticket for $25.
The Nelson-Atkins is located at 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri. For more information: http://nelson-atkins.org/.
The conversation will be Friday, March 25 at 6 p.m. in the Atkins Auditorium with happy hour and book signing at 7 p.m. in the Atkins Foyer. General admission tickets are $5. You may pre-purchase the book and one ticket for $25.
The Nelson-Atkins is located at 4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri. For more information: http://nelson-atkins.org/.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Shuttlecarts coming to Nelson-Atkins Museum (NAMA)
Nelson-Atkins to Take Visitors on Quite a Ride | Shuttlecarts Launch with Monet Exhibition
In an ongoing effort to make The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City more accessible for all, the Museum will pilot a program in which transportation carts take museum-goers on two different routes inside the Museum. The two electric carts, called Shuttlecarts, will debut at the opening of the Monet’s Water Lilies exhibition April 9.
“The amazing growth of the Nelson-Atkins has sparked so much excitement that we want everyone to experience this entire Museum,” said Julián Zugazagoitia, Menefee D. and Mary Louise Blackwell Director & CEO. “I had a conversation with Crosby Kemper in which he echoed a concern we have heard from many others, that some visitors have difficulty navigating the distances. After discussions with Museum staff, the carts seemed to be the best solution, and Crosby wholeheartedly embraced the idea and was instrumental in securing the donation that made this possible.”
R. Crosby Kemper, Jr., Chairman Emeritus, UMB Bank, championed the use of electric carts, and funding for the pilot program was approved by The Carter Community Trust on Kemper’s recommendation.
The Nelson-Atkins covers 23 acres, with 400,000 square feet of space in the Museum. The Bloch Building expansion increased the Museum square footage by 71 percent, providing new galleries and Museum support. The Shuttlecarts will operate on a rotation of two separate routes, one down the gallery walk in the Bloch Building and the other to Kirkwood Hall and Rozzelle Court Restaurant in the original building, making it easy for any visitor to go from one part of the Museum to another in a short time.
“To our knowledge, no other art museum offers this service,” said Mark Zimmerman, Director of Administration. “These carts are all electric, so there will be no noise and no pollution. They were thoroughly tested for vibration, and meet rigorous environmental and conservation requirements.”
The carts will be operated by trained drivers who will offer passengers information about current and upcoming exhibitions, yet another free service to visitors. People of all ages are invited to ride on the carts.
“It’s important to note that this is not a tour or a taxi service,” said Michael Cross, Facilities/Security & Visitor Services Manager. “The carts have an established route and timing. It takes a cart about one minute to safely go the length of the gallery walk in the Bloch Building, which is about 400 feet. We have heard from many visitors that this is a long walk, so we’re providing this free service to make the entire Museum more accessible.”
I'm really excited about this! Now if the shuttlecarts could only resemble shuttlecocks.
In an ongoing effort to make The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City more accessible for all, the Museum will pilot a program in which transportation carts take museum-goers on two different routes inside the Museum. The two electric carts, called Shuttlecarts, will debut at the opening of the Monet’s Water Lilies exhibition April 9.
“The amazing growth of the Nelson-Atkins has sparked so much excitement that we want everyone to experience this entire Museum,” said Julián Zugazagoitia, Menefee D. and Mary Louise Blackwell Director & CEO. “I had a conversation with Crosby Kemper in which he echoed a concern we have heard from many others, that some visitors have difficulty navigating the distances. After discussions with Museum staff, the carts seemed to be the best solution, and Crosby wholeheartedly embraced the idea and was instrumental in securing the donation that made this possible.”
R. Crosby Kemper, Jr., Chairman Emeritus, UMB Bank, championed the use of electric carts, and funding for the pilot program was approved by The Carter Community Trust on Kemper’s recommendation.
The Nelson-Atkins covers 23 acres, with 400,000 square feet of space in the Museum. The Bloch Building expansion increased the Museum square footage by 71 percent, providing new galleries and Museum support. The Shuttlecarts will operate on a rotation of two separate routes, one down the gallery walk in the Bloch Building and the other to Kirkwood Hall and Rozzelle Court Restaurant in the original building, making it easy for any visitor to go from one part of the Museum to another in a short time.
“To our knowledge, no other art museum offers this service,” said Mark Zimmerman, Director of Administration. “These carts are all electric, so there will be no noise and no pollution. They were thoroughly tested for vibration, and meet rigorous environmental and conservation requirements.”
The carts will be operated by trained drivers who will offer passengers information about current and upcoming exhibitions, yet another free service to visitors. People of all ages are invited to ride on the carts.
“It’s important to note that this is not a tour or a taxi service,” said Michael Cross, Facilities/Security & Visitor Services Manager. “The carts have an established route and timing. It takes a cart about one minute to safely go the length of the gallery walk in the Bloch Building, which is about 400 feet. We have heard from many visitors that this is a long walk, so we’re providing this free service to make the entire Museum more accessible.”
I'm really excited about this! Now if the shuttlecarts could only resemble shuttlecocks.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
NAMA-Bloch Building- Cited for Beauty
NAMA's Bloch Building - Cited for Beauty
Among the World's Most Beautiful Buildings listed by Travel + Leisure - February 2011, you will find The Bloch Building expansion to The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, designed by Steven Holl.
What are the other most beautiful buildings?
Here's a list:
http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/worlds-most-beautiful-buildings/1
Karrie Jacobs, who wrote Travel + Leisure says, "So are we consistent? Nope. But however capricious our choices may seem, we don’t take beauty lightly. After all, the ongoing search for beauty is what travel is all about. It’s certainly the best reason we know to leave the house." I can't argue with that.
For more about Kansas City's, and NAMA's Bloch Building expansion, go to Travel + Leisure Names Nelson-Atkins' Bloch Building One of World’s Most Beautiful
What are the other most beautiful buildings?
Here's a list:
- Sagrada Família, Barcelona
- Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE
- Institute for Sound and Vision, Hilversum, The Netherlands
- Design by Neutelings Riedijk Architecten/Photo by Scagliola Brakkee
- Institute for Sound and Vision, Hilversum, The Netherlands
- The Golden Temple, Amritsar, India
- National Congress Hall, Brasilia, Brazil
- The Guggenheim, Bilbao, Spain
- The Chrysler Building, New York City
- Mont St. Michel, Normandy, France
- ICMC at Brandenburg Technical University, Cottbus, Germany
- Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai, Thailand
- Akron Boys and Girls Club II, Akron, AL
http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/worlds-most-beautiful-buildings/1
Karrie Jacobs, who wrote Travel + Leisure says, "So are we consistent? Nope. But however capricious our choices may seem, we don’t take beauty lightly. After all, the ongoing search for beauty is what travel is all about. It’s certainly the best reason we know to leave the house." I can't argue with that.
For more about Kansas City's, and NAMA's Bloch Building expansion, go to Travel + Leisure Names Nelson-Atkins' Bloch Building One of World’s Most Beautiful
Bad Boy: An Inspector Banks Novel
Book Review by Reader Maid
My friend Reader Maid based this review on a copy provided by the publisher through an early review program.
Bad Boy: An Inspector Banks Novel - by Peter Robinson
DCI Alan Banks, on leave from the Major Crimes Unit of the Western Area Headquarters in Eastvale, is thoroughly enjoying his visit to the United States, so he isn't there when his former neighbor, Juliet Doyle, arrives at the police station seeking his help over what to do about a gun she has found in her daughter's bedroom. Instead, DI Annie Cabot interviews Mrs. Doyle and that, as they say, makes all the difference.
Jaff McCready, the titular bad boy of this story, is the son of a wealthy Englishman and successful Bollywood actress. He desperately wants to be a player in the organized crime operation headed by "The Farmer," who sees him as a possible to successor to his empire.
Jaff has been dating Erin Doyle, the childhood friend and current roommate of Banks's daughter, Tracy. When Erin catches Jaff kissing Tracy on the dance floor, she decides to get even by stealing a gun from Jaff's apartment--a gun Jaff was instructed by the Farmer to destroy--and hiding it in her old bedroom at her parents' house where she has retreated to lick her wounds.
Once her mother discovers the weapon and reports her daughter to the police, all hell breaks loose beginning with a botched police raid on the Doyle's home. Jaff takes Tracy hostage as he flees both the police and the wrath of The Farmer, who wants the drugs and cash Jaff has taken returned and Jaff silenced. When Banks arrives back from America, he finds the entire police force trying to locate Jaff and Tracy. He must use all his mental and physical resources to try to save his daughter.
Whether or not you have read any previous Inspector Banks novels, you will thoroughly enjoy "Bad Boy," Peter Robinson's latest offering in this popular British crime series. Banks makes a sympathetic if somewhat flawed hero--unlucky in love, sometimes too wrapped up in his job, and not afraid to break a few rules to get results.
Tracy also comes across as real--the "good girl" who wants to be noticed and loved by her father. Although the constant drip of brand names seems a bit too obvious at times, the various music titles and artists mentioned make for a silent but interesting soundtrack to this great read.
My friend Reader Maid based this review on a copy provided by the publisher through an early review program.
Bad Boy: An Inspector Banks Novel - by Peter Robinson
DCI Alan Banks, on leave from the Major Crimes Unit of the Western Area Headquarters in Eastvale, is thoroughly enjoying his visit to the United States, so he isn't there when his former neighbor, Juliet Doyle, arrives at the police station seeking his help over what to do about a gun she has found in her daughter's bedroom. Instead, DI Annie Cabot interviews Mrs. Doyle and that, as they say, makes all the difference.
Jaff McCready, the titular bad boy of this story, is the son of a wealthy Englishman and successful Bollywood actress. He desperately wants to be a player in the organized crime operation headed by "The Farmer," who sees him as a possible to successor to his empire.
Jaff has been dating Erin Doyle, the childhood friend and current roommate of Banks's daughter, Tracy. When Erin catches Jaff kissing Tracy on the dance floor, she decides to get even by stealing a gun from Jaff's apartment--a gun Jaff was instructed by the Farmer to destroy--and hiding it in her old bedroom at her parents' house where she has retreated to lick her wounds.
Once her mother discovers the weapon and reports her daughter to the police, all hell breaks loose beginning with a botched police raid on the Doyle's home. Jaff takes Tracy hostage as he flees both the police and the wrath of The Farmer, who wants the drugs and cash Jaff has taken returned and Jaff silenced. When Banks arrives back from America, he finds the entire police force trying to locate Jaff and Tracy. He must use all his mental and physical resources to try to save his daughter.
Whether or not you have read any previous Inspector Banks novels, you will thoroughly enjoy "Bad Boy," Peter Robinson's latest offering in this popular British crime series. Banks makes a sympathetic if somewhat flawed hero--unlucky in love, sometimes too wrapped up in his job, and not afraid to break a few rules to get results.
Tracy also comes across as real--the "good girl" who wants to be noticed and loved by her father. Although the constant drip of brand names seems a bit too obvious at times, the various music titles and artists mentioned make for a silent but interesting soundtrack to this great read.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
A Small Death in the Great Glen: A Novel
Book Review by Reader Maid
My friend Reader Maid likes to read international crime fiction, and I like to read her reviews.
Reader Maid feels international crime authors provide insights and perspectives into their countries yielding societal, cultural, and artistic information that you don't find in a travelogue.
A Small Death in the Great Glen - by A. D. Scott
It's 1950 in the western Highlands of Scotland. Little Jamie Fraser has gone missing on his way home from school and Joanne Ross's daughters, Annie and Wee Jean, were the last ones to see him alive: "We saw him," she [Wee Jean] explained, "me and Annie, we saw this great big black hoodie crow. He opens the door, all of a sudden like, an' he spreads out his wings . . . and he picks up Jamie in his wings and takes him . . . ." When Jamie is later found dead in the canal and the coroner determines the boy was "interfered with" and murdered, Joanne and her coworkers at the local newspaper wonder--Do the girls actaully know something, or is it just their imaginations trying to make sense out of the death of a friend?
"A Small Death in the Great Glen" is Scottish writer A. D. Scott's debut novel in what looks to be a very promising new series centered around a local newspaper in Inverness, Scotland during the 1950s when the scars of World War II were still red and raw. While the plot of the story turns on the murder of the young boy Jamie, the theme revolves around abuse--child abuse; spousal abuse; alcohol abuse; the abuse of power and position, both civic and religious--and the community's silent acceptance that enables such abuse to continue.
The narrative juggles multiple plot threads that are woven into and around the hunt for Jamie's killer. There's Joanne, a part-time typist for the Highland Gazette, a job of which her husband, Bill Ross, greatly disapproves. Their marriage is one of constant mental and physical tension but divorce is not an acceptable option 1950s rural Scotland. Also, there's Joanne's Italian friend, Chiara, whose family has settled in Scotland after fleeing Italy during the war and now owns a successful cafe in town. She's engaged to Peter Kowalski, a Polish imigrant. Then there's the Polish seaman who jumped shipped hoping to find asylum. Not everyone is eager to embrace those from outside their country's borders. And when Jamie is murdered, the natives naturally look to the outsiders for the killer. The seaman makes a very convenient scapegoat for Inspector Thompson who doesn't see the reason for looking any further when the solution is so obvious. Add in the Tinkers, Scotland's roving band of gypsies who aren't anxious to come forward with their knowledge of events, and the Gazette's editor-in-chief, John McAllister, who has his own mystery concerning his brother's suicide to solve, and you have a constantly shifting flow of action and perspective with a meanwhile-back-at-the-ranch quality that keeps you thoroughly engaged.
While there are some abrupt shifts between storylines that can be somewhat jarring, "A Small Death in the Great Glen" is packed with plots, personalities and all the drama of a close-knit community struggling to adjust to a post-war world. Yet the story never loses sight of the central plot and ties off all the seemingly loose threads neatly in the end. I'm very much looking forward to the sequel that is due to be released in the summer of 2011.
My friend Reader Maid likes to read international crime fiction, and I like to read her reviews.
Reader Maid feels international crime authors provide insights and perspectives into their countries yielding societal, cultural, and artistic information that you don't find in a travelogue.
A Small Death in the Great Glen - by A. D. Scott
It's 1950 in the western Highlands of Scotland. Little Jamie Fraser has gone missing on his way home from school and Joanne Ross's daughters, Annie and Wee Jean, were the last ones to see him alive: "We saw him," she [Wee Jean] explained, "me and Annie, we saw this great big black hoodie crow. He opens the door, all of a sudden like, an' he spreads out his wings . . . and he picks up Jamie in his wings and takes him . . . ." When Jamie is later found dead in the canal and the coroner determines the boy was "interfered with" and murdered, Joanne and her coworkers at the local newspaper wonder--Do the girls actaully know something, or is it just their imaginations trying to make sense out of the death of a friend?
"A Small Death in the Great Glen" is Scottish writer A. D. Scott's debut novel in what looks to be a very promising new series centered around a local newspaper in Inverness, Scotland during the 1950s when the scars of World War II were still red and raw. While the plot of the story turns on the murder of the young boy Jamie, the theme revolves around abuse--child abuse; spousal abuse; alcohol abuse; the abuse of power and position, both civic and religious--and the community's silent acceptance that enables such abuse to continue.
The narrative juggles multiple plot threads that are woven into and around the hunt for Jamie's killer. There's Joanne, a part-time typist for the Highland Gazette, a job of which her husband, Bill Ross, greatly disapproves. Their marriage is one of constant mental and physical tension but divorce is not an acceptable option 1950s rural Scotland. Also, there's Joanne's Italian friend, Chiara, whose family has settled in Scotland after fleeing Italy during the war and now owns a successful cafe in town. She's engaged to Peter Kowalski, a Polish imigrant. Then there's the Polish seaman who jumped shipped hoping to find asylum. Not everyone is eager to embrace those from outside their country's borders. And when Jamie is murdered, the natives naturally look to the outsiders for the killer. The seaman makes a very convenient scapegoat for Inspector Thompson who doesn't see the reason for looking any further when the solution is so obvious. Add in the Tinkers, Scotland's roving band of gypsies who aren't anxious to come forward with their knowledge of events, and the Gazette's editor-in-chief, John McAllister, who has his own mystery concerning his brother's suicide to solve, and you have a constantly shifting flow of action and perspective with a meanwhile-back-at-the-ranch quality that keeps you thoroughly engaged.
While there are some abrupt shifts between storylines that can be somewhat jarring, "A Small Death in the Great Glen" is packed with plots, personalities and all the drama of a close-knit community struggling to adjust to a post-war world. Yet the story never loses sight of the central plot and ties off all the seemingly loose threads neatly in the end. I'm very much looking forward to the sequel that is due to be released in the summer of 2011.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Kung Fu Panda 2 - Zoo Naming in Atlanta
The Zoo Naming: The only Giant Panda cub born in North America in 2010 will be named on February 15, 2011, in an extraordinary event unlike any other ever hosted by Zoo Atlanta. The baby giant panda is the son of Lun Lun and was born on Nov 3, 2010.
The 100 Day Giant Panda Cub Celebration will feature a surprise appearance by a major international celebrity as well as the following guests: Governor Nathan Deal, Chief of Staff Candice Byrd, Raymond King (President and CEO, Zoo Atlanta), Dr. Hayley Murphy (Director of Veterinary Services, Zoo Atlanta), and Dr. Rebecca Snyder (Curator of Mammals, Zoo Atlanta).
Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Avenue, S.E., Atlanta, GA 30315
The Dreamworks' Kung Fu Panda 2 Tie-in:
Synopsis: In “Kung Fu Panda 2,” Po is now living his dream as The Dragon Warrior, protecting the Valley of Peace alongside his friends and fellow kung fu masters, the Furious Five. But Po’s new life of awesomeness is threatened by the emergence of a formidable villain, who plans to use a secret, unstoppable weapon to conquer China and destroy kung fu. Po must look to his past and uncover the secrets of his mysterious origins; only then will he be able to unlock the strength he needs to succeed.
Dreamworks’ Kung Fu Panda 2 will be released in theaters nationwide THURSDAY, MAY 26th, 2011, featuring the voice talent of: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross, James Hong, Gary Oldman, Michelle Yeoh, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Victor Garber
If you can't attend in person:
Sattelite Coordinates:
KU-BAND:
SATELLITE: Galaxy 17 KU BAND @ 91 DEGREES WEST
TRANSPONDER: K-24 (twenty-four) SLOT F, DIGITAL
UL FREQUENCY: 14487.5 HORIZONTAL
DL FREQUENCY: 12187.5 VERTICAL
FEC: 3/4
SYMBOL RATE: 6.1113V
C-BAND TURN:
SATELLITE: GALAXY 28 CBAND @ 89 DEGREES WEST
TRANSPONDER: C-15 (fifteen) ANALOG
UL FREQUENCY: 6225 HORIZONTAL
DL FREQUENCY: 4000 VERTICAL
AUDIO: 6.2 6.8
*Technical trouble, contact:
Carolyn Smith 323-533-3051
 | ||||
| Baby Panda born on Nov 3, 2010. Photo courtesy of Zoo Atlanta | . |
Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Avenue, S.E., Atlanta, GA 30315
The Dreamworks' Kung Fu Panda 2 Tie-in:
Synopsis: In “Kung Fu Panda 2,” Po is now living his dream as The Dragon Warrior, protecting the Valley of Peace alongside his friends and fellow kung fu masters, the Furious Five. But Po’s new life of awesomeness is threatened by the emergence of a formidable villain, who plans to use a secret, unstoppable weapon to conquer China and destroy kung fu. Po must look to his past and uncover the secrets of his mysterious origins; only then will he be able to unlock the strength he needs to succeed.
Dreamworks’ Kung Fu Panda 2 will be released in theaters nationwide THURSDAY, MAY 26th, 2011, featuring the voice talent of: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross, James Hong, Gary Oldman, Michelle Yeoh, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Victor Garber
If you can't attend in person:
Sattelite Coordinates:
KU-BAND:
SATELLITE: Galaxy 17 KU BAND @ 91 DEGREES WEST
TRANSPONDER: K-24 (twenty-four) SLOT F, DIGITAL
UL FREQUENCY: 14487.5 HORIZONTAL
DL FREQUENCY: 12187.5 VERTICAL
FEC: 3/4
SYMBOL RATE: 6.1113V
C-BAND TURN:
SATELLITE: GALAXY 28 CBAND @ 89 DEGREES WEST
TRANSPONDER: C-15 (fifteen) ANALOG
UL FREQUENCY: 6225 HORIZONTAL
DL FREQUENCY: 4000 VERTICAL
AUDIO: 6.2 6.8
*Technical trouble, contact:
Carolyn Smith 323-533-3051
Friday, February 11, 2011
"Ferment" Coming to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in April
Yesterday's post showed Jason Edward Kaufman embraced by giant shining tree branches on the roof of the Museum of Modern Art. The artwork was "Maelstrom," affectionately called "Roxy on the Roof," and created by internationally acclaimed sculptor Roxy Paine.
In April, 2011 NAMA will be getting its own beautiful silver tree. Kansas City's 56-foot stainless steel sculpture of a leafless tree will be permanently installed in the Kansas City Sculpture Park at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. "Ferment" was constructed at Paine’s studio in Treadwell, NY and will be transported to the Museum. It will be installed at the site over a period of two weeks. The Museum will record the installation of Ferment in real time, and visual updates will be available at www.nelson-atkins.org.
"Ferment" was commissioned by Martin Friedman, Hall Family Foundation consultant for the Museum’s Sculpture Park for 20 years, and was funded by the foundation.
Read more about "Ferment" at
http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/45857/
Roxy Paine talks about his art at
http://www.jamescohan.com/artists/roxy-paine/video/
In April, 2011 NAMA will be getting its own beautiful silver tree. Kansas City's 56-foot stainless steel sculpture of a leafless tree will be permanently installed in the Kansas City Sculpture Park at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. "Ferment" was constructed at Paine’s studio in Treadwell, NY and will be transported to the Museum. It will be installed at the site over a period of two weeks. The Museum will record the installation of Ferment in real time, and visual updates will be available at www.nelson-atkins.org.
 |
| Roxy Paine, American (b.1966). Drawing for “Ferment,” 2009. India ink on paper, 41 x 33 ¼ inches (104.14 x 84.46 cm). Purchase: acquired in honor of Martin Friedman and his critical role in the development of the Kansas City Sculpture Park through a gift from the Hall Family Foundation, 2010.54. |
"Ferment" was commissioned by Martin Friedman, Hall Family Foundation consultant for the Museum’s Sculpture Park for 20 years, and was funded by the foundation.
Read more about "Ferment" at
http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/45857/
Roxy Paine talks about his art at
http://www.jamescohan.com/artists/roxy-paine/video/
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Jason Edward Kaufman | In View
This is Jason Edward Kaufman who is concerned about the fate of the Whitney Museum’s longtime home on Madison Avenue. The Whitney plans to open a new flagship in the Meatpacking District in 2015.
Kaufman's latest culture bulletin proposes a re-purposing for the building. He would be delighted if the Whitney's landmark building designed by Marcel Breuer became home for the International Center of Photography (ICP). He also proposed that New York City should help it make a return to Museum Mile.
Read Kaufman's article at http://blogs.artinfo.com/inview/
If you would like to receive a gratis subscription to the twice monthly IN VIEW bulletin go to http://jasonkaufman.info to sign up.
 |
| Jason Edward Kaufman |
Kaufman's latest culture bulletin proposes a re-purposing for the building. He would be delighted if the Whitney's landmark building designed by Marcel Breuer became home for the International Center of Photography (ICP). He also proposed that New York City should help it make a return to Museum Mile.
 | ||
| Whitney Museum-designed by Marcel Breuer-photo by Gryffindor-Wiki Commons |
Read Kaufman's article at http://blogs.artinfo.com/inview/
If you would like to receive a gratis subscription to the twice monthly IN VIEW bulletin go to http://jasonkaufman.info to sign up.
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