Anticipation

I have an enviable life, surrounded by books and people that love them. Two such people are Helen Simonson and Justin Kramon. Helen has been a customer of The Open Book for years and Justin was my very first employee. Both of them have books coming out in the new year and I can't wait to sell them and "name drop" like crazy.

Helen's book is entitled Major Pettigrew's Last Stand. I just fell in love with Major Pettigrew. He is the type of old school English gentleman that is baffled by the direction the modern world has taken. His relationship with his family members and the villagers of Edgecombe St. Mary are so beautifully described that you feel you know each person. The lovely friendship that develops between Mrs. Ali and the Major is charming without being cloying. The reaction of the villagers who have known the Major for most of his life are interesting and sometimes maddening. The Major's inate goodness and Mrs. Ali's dry wit and quiet rebelliousness are heartwarming. I hated to see this book end.

Justin's book Finny is being published by Random House in July. It has been described as a Dickensian adventure, a love story and the coming of age tale of a very unusual young woman. I am so looking forward to reading this book. I will post a picture of the cover and more information soon.

There are so many things to look forward to in 2010. Anticipating all the wonderful books I will read and all the new people that will walk in the door makes me welcome the future. And of course, time spent with family and familiar friends is something I am grateful for daily. I wish you all happy holidays.