27 January 2008

Review: When Ghosts Speak by Mary Ann Winkowski

I absolutely loved this book!! It is written by Mary Ann Winkowski who is the renowned paranormal investigator behind the tv show Ghost Whisperer. Winkowski can only see earthbound spirits - those that haven't crossed over into the light yet. This is different from mediums who can see spirits who have crossed over. I guess even paranormal gifts have their own categories. Her gift also includes being able to 'cross over' earthbound spirits by creating a white light and sending them into it, bringing the spirit peace.

This book is extremely well structured and very informative. With chapter headings such as: 'the truth behind ghosts' 'why some souls stay behind', 'animals' etc the book covers all aspects of earthbound spirits, from why they stay, to how to protect yourself from attracting them and how to get them to cross over. Winkowski relates particular cases to illustrate her point and she remains on topic. She even lists the most common places to find earthbound spirits, who feed off the energy of the living, and the most popular occupations for attracting earthbound spirits.

I could go on and on about this book, because I'm still thinking about it even though I finished it a few days ago, and some of the stories were very touching. Even if you're a non-believer, it would be hard not to be touched by the impact she has on people's lives and how she brings peace to so many spirits and people.

I thoroughly recommend this book.

My rating = *****

Carpe Librum!
20 January 2008

Review: The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro

The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro book coverI was originally going to buy this book for my sister for Christmas, but wasn't quite sure that she would like it so I bought it for myself instead. It was my intention to lend it to her if it was a great read, however I think I'm still undecided.

This is the story of an ageing butler reminiscing on his times serving Lord Darlington between World War I and World War II.

This book won the Booker Prize but I must say that I was a little surprised at how slow it was in the beginning. The sections I enjoyed most in the book were the main character's memories of the day to day events and conversations in his role as butler of Darlington Hall. The language and dialogue in these sections were very formal and I enjoyed these immensely. I know my sister would enjoy these sections too, however the surrounding commentary could be a little slow in parts.

Overall, I definitely enjoyed the book, but not quite sure it was worthy of the Booker Prize.

My rating = ****

Carpe Librum!
12 January 2008

Review: The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz

The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz book coverI was really excited when I read that Dean Koontz was releasing a new book involving golden retrievers. I was hoping a supernatural theme was going to make this thriller a real page turner. I'm glad to say I was right, although it was a slow start, and a very quick finish.

This novel had it's moments though and a twist I wasn't expecting, although I think the plot had more potential than what was realised. I hope it's not too long before the next Koontz hits the shelves.

My rating = ***

Carpe Librum!