Good

Great

Wow! This was a one of a kind "reading" experience! I 100% recommend the audio version of this book. From the snippets of Alicia singing and playing the piano to the short poignant guest speakers at the beginning of a few chapters made the audio version stand out fantastically. Learning about how Alicia came to be in her current stage in life, the way she supports women in all the ways she can, and how she has kept her marriage and family at the forefront of her life (ahead of her career) was amazing to read about. Now, I do not care for books that go into one's political views, and she does quite a bit of that in her book (whether I agree or disagree with political views, I do not look to celebrities to influence me, I will do my own research and come to my own opinions). Though, I can't discount the fact that listening to her tell her life's truth and showcase her artistry made me look past those political moments.

I wanted to read this book ahead of the movie coming out to streaming platforms. This book was made even better by Mark Bramhall's narration. The story of how these boys, who came from simple working families, pushed through all skepticism and doubts pushing their way to the 1936 Berlin Olympics. At a time when many rowing teams were sons of lawyers, doctors and senators, these boys were not the ones with the training facilities and high caliber schools at their disposal. They rose above and worked extra jobs during summers to afford to enroll in school each year to be able to get another shot at being part of something even bigger than they even realized at the time. Please be sure to read through the epilogue as well. It gives you a deeper understanding of the time period and how poignant this particular Olympics was.

Really interesting to read about a magical world involving Grishas. Influenced by Russian culture, the world is created with layers of depth and complex characters.

VERY SHORT BOOK!

This is the sweetest and most heartwarming story I’ve ever read about crayons

Have read all Mo Willems books and became his big fan

Jane Eyre's father was a poor pastor. When she was young, her parents both died of illness. Jane Eyre was brought up by her aunt, Mrs.Reed.

Small