Tastes of bitter and sweet

I just finished a wonderful story by Jamie Ford called Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet. It's the story of a Chinese man named Henry who came of age during World War II in Seattle. The story flips between his adult life in 1986 and his youth in 1942, revealing a lost love and the bonds between father and son. I was captivated by Henry from the start - a man who had just lost his wife to cancer, and who couldn't communicate with his son. And a boy who loved but resented his father, and who longed to be with a girl his family would never accept.

I really enjoyed getting to know Henry throughout the book, but I had one problem with it. The "present day" part of the story was set in 1986 - but was written more like 2009. The author mentions (in the first chapter!) that Henry's son was using an online support group to help him cope with his mother's death. I don't know about you, but I certainly don't remember anyone being online in 1986. Is there any way that could have been accurate?

Other than that one issue, I truly enjoyed the book. Has anyone else read this story? If so, what were your thoughts? Did you agree with some of the decisions Henry made? The characters in this book were really what brought it to life for me - I felt like I really knew Henry, inside and out. Have you ever read a book where you became so attached to the characters that you didn't want it to end?

Welcome to Summer Reading!

It's time for the Columbus Metropolitan Library's annual Summer Reading Club! This year, we've got lots in store for all of you adult readers out there. We've started this blog to let you know what we're reading this summer, as well as highlight the great services that the library offers and some of the fun things that we're doing. For instance, did you know we're on Twitter and Facebook now? Favorite us or follow us if you use those services as well, and we'll keep you up to date on library events and activities!

If you haven't signed up for Summer Reading Club yet, what are you waiting for? We have great prizes this year, including a pair of tickets to BalletMet, books, tote bags, and mugs! There are even coupons available for adults that finish, so you'll want to get started reading right away! And keep reading this blog for some great book suggestions and literary news.

We can't wait to spend our summer with you!