The December Book Review

Submitted by Bonnie Mason

I am delighted to be writing this article again – I got sidetracked, as it were, for a year or so until my thoughtful neighbor suggested I write again and I agreed… Thank you!

I do love a good book that exist somewhat under the radar, Best Sellers you can find in the New York Times… One of my favorite reviews was the water color chickens book with an intro by Prince Charles – who knew he was a chicken aficionado!

Fashion BookChristmas gift ideas abound! My grandmother, who built 1505 W. Columbia Terrace in the Uplands, taught me to do all sorts of rather elegant handwork. My mother taught me to sew when I was seven, so my appreciation of Fashion: A History from the 18th Century to the 20th Century, compiled by Taschen, may be greater than most. The collection of garments pictured is honestly breathtaking when the work involved is in creating them is taken into consideration – clothing as genuine works of art. This is a collection of the Kyoto Costume Institute, the text is a rich history of fashion over the past three centuries – don’t miss this book! Hardcover, $19.98, a gorgeous volume. 

The Big Idea BookNational Geographic has published a book entitled The Big Idea: How Breakthroughs of the Past Shape the Future. A fascinating analysis of 24 Big Ideas of today and tomorrow and the trail of big ideas through history (from the present to 3,500 BC) that led to them. “Looking backward at giant leaps forward” a reverse chronology is listed on eight pages at the back of the book showing how big ideas interact, build on each other, bounce off each other, and influence each other through history. “A one of a kind volume that will thrill science and technology junkies of every age and give whole new meaning to the phrase “back to the future”. Paperback, the book sells for $12.98!

Gus & Me BookOf course, my final suggestion and my absolute favorite find of the year is Gus & Me. Written by Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones, this is a charming, charming picture book full of love. It is the story of Keith’s relationship with his grandfather, Gus, who introduced him to music. So beautifully and simply illustrated by the Richards’ daughter, Theodora, (named after Gus) it is a must read. If you don’t feel like reading it there is a CD in the back – Keith will read it to you. I am in complete awe of the fact that Keith Richards is a devoted family man living in Connecticut, father of five children with five grandchildren, still married to Patti after all these years – Hardcover, published by Hanchette Book Group, Inc. the book sells for $18.00. A perfect choice for everyone! 

I am really happy to be writing for you again. Thank you! Be good to each other, read, give books and enjoy the holidays! Merry Christmas!