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Dancing on the River: Navigating Life's Changes

Dancing on the River: Navigating Life's Changes

By Mark Susnow 188 pages Adult

Danny Says

I read this book from cover-to-cover waiting at the airport and flying from San Jose to Los Angeles. Susnow takes a harrowing experience from his childhood and uses it as a metaphor for life lessons. Filled with practical advice that I think could really benefit all those looking to frame their lives in a more positive way.
Sex on Six Legs: Lessons on Life, Love, and Language from the Insect World

Sex on Six Legs: Lessons on Life, Love, and Language from the Insect World

By Marlene Zuk 272 pages Adult

Danny Says

Had to read this book, as I loved the title. I am not usually someone who is drawn to science books, but Zuk’s wonderful knack for creating intrigue at every corner while educating laypeople make her a natural teacher. Where was she when I was asleep in high school life science class? I think even arachnophobes would enjoy this book.
Choclatique: 150 Simply Elegant Desserts

Choclatique: 150 Simply Elegant Desserts

By Ed Engoron 272 pages Adult

Danny Says

It may be a little over 250 pages, but this book is loaded with scintillating photos of chocolate to entice anyone to attempt one of the 150 recipes for using chocolate. Engoron is a cross between Willy Wonka and Indiana Jones, as his terrific book blends recipes with history in the most enticing travelogue I have read this year. See more in my interview with Ed at: http://www.dannybrassell.com/vlog-ed-engoron-pmad/
Sometimes I Feel Like a Nut: Essays and Observations

Sometimes I Feel Like a Nut: Essays and Observations

By Jill Kargman 192 pages Adult

Danny Says

You need to buy this book, as I flew threw this one. Kargman is hysterical, as I have not found myself laughing so hard reading a book of essays since my first encounters with Woody Allen (long ago) and David Sedaris (more recently). This book should improve anyone’s mood for at least a week.
The Hundred Brothers: A Novel

The Hundred Brothers: A Novel

By Donald Antrim 208 pages Adult

Danny Says

If you’re looking for a quick, quirky tale, you’re in business. This book reads like a relatable, nightmarish family reunion featuring 99 brothers (one couldn’t make it) ranging in age from 25 to 93 trying to locate their dead father’s remains. Fun, demented humor. 
Orientation

Orientation

By Daniel Orozco 176 pages Adult

Danny Says

Do you know what I like best about short stories (besides being short)? Good short stories contain some of the quirkiest characters and storylines. I loved this book the moment I read about the bridge painters who talk down jumpers. Quirky, lovely – I wish I could write as well as Orozco. This book is a gem.
Dolly City (Hebrew Literature Series)

Dolly City (Hebrew Literature Series)

By Orly Castel-Bloom 167 pages Adult

Danny Says

I have not read a modern satire this good in a long time. Israeli author Castel-Bloom is irreverent in her portrayal of a warped doctor-turned-mother. While the book is short, the story will linger in your mind for a long time asking questions and trying to re-think what an “overbearing Jewish mother” really is.  
Stone Arabia: A Novel

Stone Arabia: A Novel

By Dana Spiotta 238 pages Adult

Danny Says

I am ashamed to say I had never heard of Dana Spiotta before reading this book. The woman sitting next to me on a plane was reading Stone Arabia, and we had a long conversation about Spiotta. Now I understand why she was a National Book Award finalist, as I found myself wondering whether I should laugh or cry as I plowed through this story.
The Three-Martini Playdate: A Practical Guide to Happy Parenting

The Three-Martini Playdate: A Practical Guide to Happy Parenting

By Christie Mellor 144 pages Adult

Danny Says

Christie Mellor has provided the perfect antidote to any parent who has had one of “those” days. I hate to sound cliché, but this is “laugh out loud” funny (or, for those of you under the age of 25, “lol”).
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)

By Mindy Kaling 222 pages Adult

Danny Says

Full disclosure: I think The Office is one of the greatest human contributions of the 21st century, and I needed funny books to boost my spirits this past month. Kaling, a star and writer for The Office, provides a variety of wonderful observations that make a great coffee table book or bathroom reader.
The Boy Who Would Be Shakespeare: A Tale of Forgery and Folly

The Boy Who Would Be Shakespeare: A Tale of Forgery and Folly

By Doug Stewart 229 pages Adult

Danny Says

I could not put this book down! Ever heard of William Henry Ireland? Neither had I. This book takes you through his incredible con-job in 18th century England, when he claimed to have discovered a bunch of never-before-seen documents written by Shakespeare. A fascinating tale that would make a great movie.
I Am Potential: Eight Lessons on Living, Loving, and Reaching Your Dreams

I Am Potential: Eight Lessons on Living, Loving, and Reaching Your Dreams

By Patrick Henry Hughes,Patrick John Hughes 264 pages Adult

Danny Says

I first saw Patrick on Extreme Makeover: The Home Edition and was touched by his inspiring story of living with a disability and his incredibly supportive father (they perform as a team in the Louisville marching band). If you want to get motivated for the new year, I know no better book to show you how to put things in perspective and beat any odds.
Long Drive Home: A Novel

Long Drive Home: A Novel

By Will Allison 240 pages Adult

Danny Says

I typically choose cheerful books for the list, but this thriller kept me turning pages. A father’s “accidental” vehicular homicide provides the setting for this very compelling read.
Best Staged Plans

Best Staged Plans

By Claire Cook 256 pages Adult

Danny Says

If you have not had the pleasure of reading a Claire Cook book yet, you are in for a real treat as she always finds a way to make me laugh. Some call it chick lit, but to me Cook writes in a way that is accessible to anyone in the mood to smile.
The Foreigners

The Foreigners

By Maxine Swann 272 pages Adult

Danny Says

Watch for this to become a movie someday, as it has three strong female protagonists. I can already visualize Woody Allen filming this book, with its glorious Buenos Aires backdrop. Would have been perfect material for Bette Davis and Joan Crawford.

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