Creating Reading Rainbow: The Untold Story of a Beloved Children's Series, by Barbara Irwin, Tony Buttino, Pam Johnson

Publication June 18, 2024

I knew immediately I was going to thoroughly enjoy this book as I read Barbara Irwin's preface. Her warm remembrance of not just the show but of all those connected to it was evident. They were a natural team. Their recognition of what the show came to mean to so many and their gratitude for the chance to create something memorable added to the tone of the book. I was already past its target age when it premiered but as a by then teacher, I found it a delight and inspiration, so I was delighted to find this book. It also gives us an episode guide and book list as well as interviews and notes.

I don't normally share blurbs in my reviews, after all, they're readily available elsewhere, but thought this paragraph of the publisher's blurb spoke volumes:

"Creating Reading Rainbow explores the many intriguing and homespun stories that, when woven together, reveal how this groundbreaking and iconic television series came to be. What led to the series being called “Reading Rainbow”? How did the road to Reading Rainbow wind its way through Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood? How did a public television station in Buffalo spearhead a movement in education and spark the passion for reading in millions of children? And, what does lasagna have to do with it?"

Needless to say, I'm not going to deprive you of the fun of finding out the answers to these intriguing questions on your own but will say you'll learn about the many ups and downs of the creation and production of "Reading Rainbow" as you read. As a fan of host Levar Burton, though, I found the story behind his joining to team interesting. He was still riding high on the success of his role in "Roots" and, quite frankly, if nothing else, they probably assumed they're never be able to afford him given that their budge was next to nothing. Yet, Burton, the son of an English teacher who loved to read himself, was determined to do something to make a difference in the world. He came aboard and they had their face.

Needless to say, the producers faced many highs and lows. There were things that worked and, of course, things that didn't. You'll see how they learned from mistakes, however, turning most into positives. I mean, who knew a love of reading was going to lead the on camera team to, say, stand on the edge of a volcano threatening to erupt or that Burton would learn to fly a plane and scuba dive as a result of the show's direction? All that and much, much more. While Levar Burton was obviously the focus, the face of the show, learning the behind the scenes activity and planning was fascinating. More impressive, it was mostly done on a low budget. Their stories ring with warmth. They seem to have been delighted to simply be there and it shows. They bonded in their common goal, to help make reading and learning about our world accessible and, yes, fun. They became a family. They made a difference. Thanks #NetGalley and #GlobePequot - #NorthCountryBooks for sharing this warm-hearted memory with me. I've always been a reader, so I loved the show and highly recommend this book.

Lucille Ball Treasures, by Cindy De La Hoz

 

Available Nov. 7, 2023

If you only know Lucille Ball through her zany "I Love Lucy" show, you've missed quite a bit. It's easy to just assume that big star that she was as Lucy, she was always a sparkling, funny star. Not so. Like others who have attained that realm of stardom and influence, she worked hard for years to get there. 

This book takes the time to share those early days, days when she wasn't even listed in the credits of some films. It was actually rather fascinating to get a glimpse of the pre-star Lucille, just another aspiring small-town girl wanting to be an actress. She put in the hours and hard work needed to ultimately be not just a success but a "mover-and-shaker" in the film industry. For that, I'm grateful, as are Star Trek fans.

The photos shared are a delight in themselves. Yes, I went though the book first simply to take in the pictures which, in themselves, rather chronicle her early days and rise. Although I've certainly read other books on her, there were many that I'd never seen. While the book doesn't go into great detail about these early day works, they do share enough to give us a feel for why they were important steps in her career and personal path. I'm not sure one can put into words whatever it is that separates a Lucille Ball from the assorted other starlets who came up with her but whatever it was, it worked. It was interesting to note how many of the performers she worked with in the early days were showcased on "I Love Lucy", I might note. There are several but the one that immediately popped into my head was the silent routine she did with Harpo Marx, each managing to perfectly mimic the other's movements. A classic. Perfection and nostalgia rolled into one. 

There's much more but I'll simply add that whether you're intrigued by Ball herself or the show biz angle, there is a great deal to enjoy in this book. It would make a lovely gift. Thanks #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup - #ChartwellBooks for this early peek at the book.

The Perfect Staging for Murder, by Kathlenn Bridge

 

Wow, life in the Hamptons is far more exciting than I thought it was. Movie stars? Sure. Fancy homes and mansions? Sure. Movie making. But, murder? Let's just say, you're eavesdropping on the filming of the final scene in a production as the book opens, thunder and lightening raging outside a lighthouse, and that's just the beginning.

Who killed the arrogant director of the show? It isn't like there isn't a long line of suspects, including his children. Even Meg's boyfriend, Patrick, the scrip-writer is a suspect after a public argument with the director. Why is Patrick suddenly missing? Will Meg's ability to read lips, a skill she's fine tuned since being forced to wear a hearing aid from her teens, be a help or a hindrance? Who left a dead fish on the hood of Meg's vehicle? Why was Julie known as a Black Widow? Who....oh, more than enough teasers. 

Overall, although I wasn't quite taken by Meg, I enjoyed the book. One issue I had was the frequent detours. By detours I mean, oh, Meg picking up her phone from a desk and we get the history of where she got the desk and why. Or, say, just as she pulls out her murder board, the action stops as she thinks about how she once designed the interior of a child's tree house. All somewhat interesting but not when it seems to slow things down and be unrelated.Hence, a 3.5 rating rounded up because I found the mystery itself quite interesting.

Thanks #NetGalley and #BeyondThePagePublishing for allowing me this backstage look at not just movie making but life in East Hamptons, or Montauk to be exact.

Four Leaf Cleaver, by Maddie Day

 

Publication Jan. 31, 2023       Country Store Mystery #11 

A relatively quick, easy read that will both entertain you and leave you hungry. Never fear, there are some absolutely delicious sounding recipes at the end. Lots of food talk in the book, too, of course. You'll also get a peek at the personal lives of many involved, including Robbie and Abe.

The plot centers about Robbie's country store and restaurant, Pans 'N Pancakes, being selected to host a holiday cooking competition. In this case, the holiday is St. Patrick's Day. Gee, I'm betting you guessed that from the title and cover. <smile> In any case, even Robbie's husband, Abe, gets into the spirit and is one of the contestants. Unfortunately, Tara O'Hara, the show's hostess, is found dead the morning the show is to be filmed. As it turns out, there are ample suspects and clues and red herrings to keep Robbie's curiosity on full alert, not to mention that when, surprisingly, the show's powers that be decide the show will go on, Robbie is drafted to do the hostess duties. To be honest, although I'm not really familiar with cooking shows, that did strike me as a tad unrealistic. She not only is inexperienced, busy and distracted, but there are others handy who believe they should have gotten the nod. 

That's all I'm going to say about the plot, sorry, so you're going to have to read the book to find out not just how Robbie handles her impromptu hostessing duties but another dead body in her store. As a long time reader of this series, I just knew her curiosity and unending questions would get her in trouble and, of course.... oh, wait. I said I wasn't sharing any more of the plot.  Yep, you need to read this one. It's a fun series. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me over to watch the filming and hang out with Robbie. I was a bit startled at one of the places we went, however, but it was fun.

Death at Beresford Hall (Adam and Eve Mystery #4), by Emma Davies

 

 

Publication Dec. 6/7, 2022

This series keeps getting better and better. It was a delight to see young Adam, who once hid in a closet to avoid meeting people, take a major role in this installment. Fran, aka the Eve of the title, Francesca Eve, is roped into participating in a cooking show, giving her less time to devote to the issue at hand. Although it started with Fran and Adam responding to Detective Nell's request that they do some investigating of the delivery of disturbing gifts to the show's hostess, it evolves into a murder investigation when Miranda Appleby, face of the cooking show, is killed. Who killed Miranda? Why? And, why is the least likely killer the only suspect without an alibi? Who had the time, motive, and opportunity to kill Miranda?

Adam frequently finds himself on his own. True, he spends a quality amount of that time in the kitchen scarfing down whatever Beresford Hall's friendly, chatty cook puts in front of him, but that doesn't mean his mind isn't in overdrive. His ability to think outside the box, matched with Fran's observational skills, face a real challenge. Toss in the Fran is discovering that the raised adrenaline rush of cooking in front of cameras during a set time span and, well, she isn't quite as able to focus as usual. Far from being the benign, fun cooking show expected, they're suddenly faced with an array of suspects, some with secrets they'd just as rather remain hidden. The show has a few secrets it'd prefer remain unknown, too. 

Nope, not revealing any more of the plot. I will note that we get to see more of the human side of Nell, taxed with solving the case quickly, as well as how much she genuinely feels for those she seems to scare senseless when interrogating them. We also get an interesting look at the unreality of reality show such as this cooking competition. Let's just say, what viewers see isn't always exactly what happened, when. Bottom line, I was impressed by Fran's composure under pressure and Adam's growth from the beginning of the series until now. I mean, he's helped ascertain whether that dead body is really dead, a first for him, and is relying more on observation than his usual gadgets although, okay, there is that one time....no, nope, not telling. You're going to have to read the book. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me back to Adam and Fran/Eve's world again. I'm looking forward revisiting soon.

Murder Spills the Tea (Tea by the Sea Mystery #3), by Vicki Delany

Having reluctantly agreed to appear on a reality baking show, the show's production crew keep reminding Lily Roberts that a reality show has nothing to do with reality. Unfortunately, the dead body she discovers is very real. So, too, is the arrest of one of her staff for the murder. Lily, her grandmother Rose, and best friend Bernie must work together to find the real killer of Tommy Greene. Unfortunately, they too well know the detective in charge is one of those who tends to focus on the first suspect to come to light, meaning they need to help ensure that the truth prevails.

Lily and her friends and associates are likeable and the setting itself is a essentially a character in the book. Set in Cape Cod, you find yourself virtually traveling from the delightfully soothing beauty of the tearoom itself, with its quaint British aura and its garden, with it's tinkling teacups and drifting aromas from the flowers so lovingly tended by Simon, to the shoreline's crashing waves, rapidly rising tide, and slippery rocks. And, hey, there's a dog, too, not to mention a cat. Toss in hints of a growing romance, a budding author, and old world eloquence and it's all the more startling that a murder took place.

So, who did it? I'm obviously not telling. Could it have been the mayor's obnoxious husband? How about the mayor herself? Did one of the other judges kill Tommy for reasons not even connected to the show? Who is related to who? Does all the food talk make you hungry? Or, maybe thirsty for a cup of properly prepared tea? How far would you go to protect a member of your family? Does Lily really, really want to go where the evidence leads? Who was the mystery woman in the garden? Did Lily lock that door or not? And, what's going on with Simon? You'll have to read the book for answers to these questions and more. It's fast paced and will keep you turning the pages.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to Tea By the Sea to spend a bit more time getting to know Lily and friends. I'd like a table in the garden, please.

The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family, by Ron and Clint Howard

 

Short on time, so just a quick, rather rambling overview of my take on this one, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Its focus is on family and respect/responsibility, but lots of show biz insights, too.

This is probably the best celebrity memoir I've read. Those who grew up watching Ron and Clint grow up before their eyes on the "Andy Griffith Show" and beyond, will find much to enjoy and smile over. Sadly, particularly in the case of Clint, they'll also learn that the Howard boys' life wasn't all sunshine and easy street. Clint confronts his addiction to drugs and alcohol within and Ron shares his experiences breaking out of the stereotypical "nice guy" role he seemed to carry so easily. Despite his early acting success, he seemed focused on making movies, not staring in them, and it's both fascinating and a hoot to read his tales of his earliest movies, most starring family and a few friends. "Grand Theft Auto" was his big break, of course, but only came after appearing in "American Graffiti" and being cast as Richie in "Happy Days".  All was not fun and games behind the scenes of even the latter, either, as Ron found himself slowly being edged out of his own show by the unexpected popularity of Henry Winkler's Fonzi role. To his credit, Winkler remains on of his best friends today, by the way, and flew cross country to attend Ron's wedding to Cheryl, also attended by Andy Griffith and Don Knotts.

Through it all, the emphasis is on family. Luckily for Ron and Clint, parents Rance and Jean Howard proved that being parents came first, not promoting their children's career. An actor himself, Rance's role in helping Ron and Clint learn to prepare as actors, to actually inhabit their character rather than just making cute faces and spouting lines that had no meaning to them, stands out. Rance and Jean were there every step of the way, saving the money Clint and Ron were making for their futures rather than spending it on themselves. Many other child stars cannot say the same thing, alas. 

In any case, I found it particularly interesting to not just read about some of the little tricks of the trade that were normal to the young actors but to hear how entranced Ron was with the entire process at an early age. Even as a child, his dream seemed to be more targeted toward directing and producing than being the star. Look at him now! Clint never quite reached the acclaim his brother did but has a solid resume of acting jobs and, after getting sober, sounds like he is in a good place. The obvious affection and, yes, love the brothers share is evident throughout, as is their love and respect for their parents. And, oh, how sweet is it that Ron's wife, Cheryl, was his first real girlfriend. How un-Hollywood of you, Ron. 

Playing With Myself, by Randy Rainbow

Which one of these is Randy Rainbow? The overweight, introverted child wearing a cartoon t-shirt? The boy being bullied in the school yard? The child hiding in his room to avoid his father's anger? The star of many a school musical? The boy who spent most date nights with his grandmother? The boy who would eventually count the legendary Stephen Sondheim as a friend? The one who cried when his cat had to be put to sleep? The multi-talented star of many a viral video?

If you said all of the above, you are right. Randy Rainbow is all of these and more. I came to this book as a fan of his viral videos expecting a light but intriguing look at his rise to video stardom but came away with far more respect for him than I could have imagined. His story manages to be both humorous and sadly enlightening for those of us who never had to walk in his shoes or, this being Randy, ruby slippers.

Randy Rainbow is his real name, btw. If you are at all familiar with his work you are likely familiar with the that he portrays in his videos, the heightened, campy persona that frequently breaks out in song. He writes like I'd imagine he'd talk. I found myself almost waiting him to break out in song somehow, never mind I was reading a print copy of "Playing With Myself". I found myself not only liking him but adoring his mother and grandmother. Apparently I share that with Carol Burnett, yes, that Carol Burnett.

Bottom line, I came to learn more about how Randy Rainbow makes his videos. I came away not only with a good idea of how that happens but a genuine respect and liking for the man behind the pink eyeglasses. "Playing With Myself" is a winner, especially for someone who claims not to be terribly political and even, no lie, compares his father to Donald Trump's personality.  

Thank you #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for this wonderful introduction to this multi-talented man.

Five Belles Too Many, by Debra H. Goldstein

Although this is the first book I've read in the series, I thoroughly enjoyed "Five Belles Too Many". Sarah Blair's mother, Maybelle, and her beau, George, are involved in a reality show with a prize of a dream wedding. Never mind they are basically senior citizens. Reality shows like variety and Maybelle and George provide a charming contrast to the younger couples involved. They are also realists and have no expectations of winning but thought it would be fun. Well, maybe for them.

For Sarah? Not so much. She was drafted to serve as chaperone for her mother during the week's filming and, as luck would have it, the show's contestants are being housed at her nemesis' B&B. Sarah and Jane are, to be simplistic, not friends. Sarah can't wait for the week to be over. She's expecting many things but she isn't expecting murder. Nor did she expect to find Jane standing over the victim with bloody hands.

I won't detail the plot as that can be easily found elsewhere, but will say that it moves right along and kept me guessing until the big reveal. In the process, we're given a sneak peek behind the scenes of how the reality show comes together. Let's just say, ratings are the ultimate goal. The odds are good not everyone will emerge happy.

The cameras are seemingly always going. What happens when someone varies from the plan? Why is one of the bride contestants' mother so invested in her daughter winning? How about the football player potential grooms? Are they rivals or friends? Are those cigars really as nasty and smelly as reported? What drove Cliff and Sarah apart? Is there any chance they'll find their way back together? If Jane didn't kill Alan, who did? What connects the other victims? What the heck does a dishwasher have to do with anything? Why are Flynn and Sam so willing to jump through hoops to keep the filming going after Alan's death? Would one of the contestants have done it? Heck, will there even be a wedding?

Nope, not telling. You're going to have to read the book to find out. As noted, you'll find out quite a bit about reality television, too, so buckle up. It's an intriguing, relatively quick read with characters you'll like, animal rescue advocates, great friendships, and, hmm, romance and weddings.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to be an extra, so to speak, at what should be the wedding of the year in Wheaton, Alabama. I enjoyed meeting everyone and hope to see more of Fluffy and RahRah as I catch up reading about Sarah's adventures.

Born Standing Up, by Steve Martin

 "Doing comedy alone on stage is the ego's last stand."

I could detail the process of how he reached success but that isn't what stands out to me after reading this 2007 memoir. Actually, Martin himself quips at one point that it's really more of a biography since the person he's writing about isn't who he is now. How he got there is a mix of ambition, frustration, glee, silliness, anxiety, and depression. 

How ironic that so many who do comedy seem not to have carefree, fun filled lives but lives that leave them somehow apart from both family and friends, not to mention the contrary views of fans as their fame grows. I have to admit to never being a huge Steve Martin fan in his "Wild and Crazy" stand-up days but came away from this book with a new respect and admiration for his intelligence, honesty, and, yes, humor. Hearing him narrate this was a plus. The banjo interludes between sections was also a fun bonus.

I won't detail his stand-up career, which is the focus of the book. Plot summaries are easily found. It ends just as his movie career begins with "The Jerk" movie. More than the how of how he become a success, I was moved by the obstacles he had to overcome to become the man he is today. Ironic isn't it, how many comedians seem to suffer from anxiety and severe depression, both of which dogged Martin throughout his life and career. Intelligent and ultimately well educated, with an interest in art, history, literature, philosophy and logic, it's doubtful anyone would have pegged Martin to become a stand-up comedian. 

Even worse, his relationship with his father was unhealthy, even abusive at times. That continued for years with them becoming closer only as his father was near death. Remember, his father once panned his son's first appearance on Saturday Night Live in a public review. Not until near death did his father admit that his son had done what he himself had once dreamed of, becoming famous.

Despite his eventual, years-in-the making success, he felt isolated and lonely at the height of his stand-up success.  He was tired from being constantly on the road, and depressed. He felt he'd gone stale and as audience numbers grew lost that sense of connection with his audience. It was, he said, the "loneliest period of my life." Stand-up comedy is by its very  nature a solo endeavor for most. You're on your own. As success grew, fans were showing up at his door, too, ringing the doorbell and expecting to be invited in or, at least entertained. He was expected to be the public figure he portrayed. They expected humor on demand, in other words. This details how this growing sense of isolation and depression lead to both the end of his stand-up career and the beginning of his acting and eventual career as not just a comedy sketch writer but an author.

I found this an intriguing read, well, listen. I "read" the audio version of the book that was read by Martin himself. I recall reading a print copy of this some years back with no real reaction to it, so this was an interesting listen for me.

I Must Say: My Life as a Humble Comedy Legend, by Martin Short

 "....in a fleeting moment."

Ironic that my big take-away from this likeable, funny book, published in 2014, is the humanity behind the public face. I came away with a new liking -- his characters have been hit or miss with me -- and respect for Martin Short. So much of what he said resonates loudly with his current visibility and popularity in the hit comedy-mystery "Only Murders in the Building" on Hulu. I "read" the audio version, btw, read by Short himself, which I highly recommend.

It's sometimes difficult to wrap our minds around the fact that they seemingly always funny, smiling man we see on television and in the movies or, if you're lucky on a Broadway stage, hasn't had an easy, smooth life. Short lost a brother and both parents by the time he was twenty. His wife of 30+ years died of Ovarian Cancer, ironically the disease that took the life of a former girlfriend, Gilda Radner.

Yet, even now that I know the back story of Short's life, it's hard to envision him as anything but smiling and loving life. As he writes, bad things happen but the sun does come up the next morning. He feels the mark of a man isn't just how he handles it all but what he learns from the experience. He's still smiling, remembering a good life, and surrounded by a circle of friends that would make almost anyone's A-list, including the likes of Steve Martin, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, not to mention one of his house guests at one point was the late Robin Williams. Steve Martin wrote a special song, "The Great Remember", for banjo in tribute to Nancy, Short's wife, after her death. I could go on and on but, well, think of your dream guest list and they are probably friends of Martin Short. That tells you something, the man is genuinely likeable.

I won't detail the whole list but Short lists the nine categories that have been essential to him. The key seems to be keeping a balance and getting your priorities straight. For him, yes, that included his show biz career but his family and friends were the ultimate concern. As he notes, all the little perks and rewards we get are nice but the important thing is really whether you're enjoying life and helping make the world a better place. A good philosophy for us all, I'd say.

Given the success and popularity of the Steve Martin created "Only Murders in the Building", I couldn't help but zero in on some performance/life traits that Martin Short brings to the character he plays. I also noted that he has a son who shares the name Oliver, Short's show name. The character is a bit of an oddball, aren't we all, but as Short notes in the book, written well before the show was created, oddball characters are often sweet, empathetic, and agreeable. It's the innocence in a character that strikes actor Short. While he definitely ascribes to the theory that, yeah, more can be fun, he also tries not to telegraph or oversell the character. Just as with his general life philosophy, he strives for that balance. As he notes in the book, any performance has in it the chance for danger, fun, and even anarchy.

The end of the book, while dealing with the lose of his wife to cancer, somehow manages to also strike that often precarious balance. It circles back to the death of his mother, who kept the seriousness of the disease from him as long as possible, thus illustrating his seeming need to somehow protect Nancy from the truth of her diagnosis as long as possible. His reaction and that of their children is enough to bring tears to the eyes. At the time, he tells Steve Martin that he is shattered. That said, the optimistic side of him seems to have won out, with not just imagined chats with her on the deck of their snug getaway but in the way his friends circle about him. As he recalls, it's a quote from his late brother that seems to bring peace: "I'll see you in a fleeting moment."

Funny, sad, and with lots of name dropping, this book should be a must for fans of both Short's past and present work. It'll make you look at him with new eyes.

The Binge Watcher’s Guide to The Golden Girls: An Unofficial Guide, by Marissa DeAngelis

This book was written with love. Not just a love of the show but the love of friends and friends who are family. Marissa DeAngelis' depth of information here is impressive and offered up in an easy-to-read fashion, almost as if she is simply having a conversation with you. It was as the book notes early on, a show where "exceptional writing and acting meet". Not only does DeAngelis offer up a recap of each episode, including guest stars, but offers her own opinions on why it resonated with not just here but probably other viewers. I should also note that despite the obvious love of the show and its characters, she doesn't hesitate to point out inconsistencies or story lines that simply didn't work for her.

And, come on. Admit it. Which Golden Girl are you? There is actually a quiz included to help you decide. Yes, I took it. I came off as a Rose but with leanings toward Dorothy, I guess I'd characterize it. Also probably fairly accurate. There are also bios of each of the actresses, lists of toys and games connected to the show, and even suggestions on how to throw the perfect watch party, remembering that the point is "to laugh and enjoy your friends". There's more, including a music play list for your part or simply entertainment. All this before it even got into the episode guide. As I said, the author has done a thorough job of research, oh, the horrors of having to indulge in watching every episode.....I'm jealous..... and packed "The Binge Watcher's Guide to The Golden Girls" with all sorts of data, fun facts, recaps, and glimpses behind the scenes. This one is a winner. I should also note, perhaps, that it was surely edited at the very least after Betty White's death, so it is quite up to date.

Thank you #NetGalley and #RiverdaleAvenueBooks for giving me the opportunity to rub elbows with some of the best friends a person could ask for. It was a joy. 

The Twelve Jays of Christmas: A Meg Langslow Mystery (Meg Langslow #30), by Donna Andrews

Listened to the audio version and loved it. Publisher #StMartinsPress. I didn't get on #NetGalley soon enough to request this one so was delighted to find it available via my library, albeit I had to wait awhile for my turn. I considered it a belated Christmas gift that my turn coincided with New Year's Eve and listened to the bulk of it that evening while cuddling with the dog and briefly watching the local fireworks from my deck. Life is good. In any case, on with a review.....

Donna Andrews' #MegLangslow series has never disappointed. Good mood, bad mood, so-so mood, bored or whatever, I always find myself rapidly losing myself in the story. Meg is amazing and despite the often bizarre things going on about her, like wombats in the basement, never seems to be flustered or overwhelmed. BTW, did you know wombats glow? Sort of like my old black light posters, I guess. In any case, that's just the beginning of the adventure. There's a cranky, demanding artist in residence in the Langslow's library, too, doing some art work for the wildlife expert grandfather's next book. In the process, someone has set free the twelve jays of the title in the house. Blue Jays are obviously not an easy catch, either.

Then the artist's ex-wives show up, angry and in at least one case, fighting mad. The long suffering assistant isn't having an easy time of it, either, facing constant ridicule and belittlement from said artist and having to run back and forth between grandfather's zoo facility for items left there when the cranky artist refused to work in the small space set up for him. You see, cranky artist couldn't simply go back to his apartment because he'd been locked out for non-payment of rent. And, oh, yeah, he smokes in the library, too, which finally forces Meg to put her foot down and threaten he'll be tossed out of there, too. And, oh, it's almost Christmas.

I doubt it comes as any surprise to you when cranky artist winds up dead. Dead with a knife in his throat. The irate ex-wives are the logical immediate suspects but, hmm, could this be far more complicated than that? How about the landlord who was cheated out of payment for use of his facility? Other artists, perhaps jealous? What happened to Delaney's mother? Is that related? Why was a PI trying to serve cranky artist? How many red heads actually live in town? Will the 9-1-1 operator ever tire of Meg's calls at all hours? What are the mothers up to? Will or won't Spike bite Meg before all is said and done? Just how cranky are wombats anyway, even young ones? When will Michael and the boys get home with Grandma? Will the community come together to find a way that allows its main homeless resident to accept their help? Will..... Oh, surely you get my drift by now. There's a great deal going on, including a desperate visit to the zoo. And that's all before Rob's big announcement at the Christmas gathering.

Bottom line, I loved every second of this audio book. Narrator Bernadette Dunne is excellent, her voice seeming changing pitch and tone effortlessly as she narrates the story. Kudos to her for capturing the various characters so well. I'm already looking forward to Meg's next adventure.

Betty White: 100 Remarkable Moments in an Extraordinary Life, by Ray Richmond

 

What's not to love about Betty White? I won't detail all the moments of her life and career given here because I'd still be going hours from now, there are too many, but thoroughly enjoyed this book put together by Ray Richmond. To be honest, I thought I knew about all there was to know about Betty White but quickly found out how wrong I was. Fans of White and television history will love this book and perhaps treasure it all the more after her recent death. You'll probably learn a few things, too, as I did. Enjoy! 

 Thank you very much for this delightful read and look, #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup, #Becker&Mayer. Betty White is a true treasure.

A Corpse for Christmas (A Cass Peake Cozy Mystery Book 3), by Rena Leith

This was a bit of a mystery within the mystery. What do all those mystical symbols and names mean in the diary? Who knew taking an additional job over the Christmas holiday would be so deadly? At a small, scenic college, at that.

Cass and her team of friends, family, and relatives set out to make a sort of virtual video to help the college promote itself to potential students. In the process, dead bodies keep popping up. As one suspect is singled out, Cass brings her some basic necessities.

What secrets will the diary that is given to Cass on the sly by the suspect reveal? Hey, wait. Why is the diary being given to Cass in the first place? What is the long-kept secret of the Black Triangle Club? Will the video Cass' crew is shooting reveal anything? How good of an actor must one be to feign innocence? Who is the new professor the college found so quickly to take that job? Who is, or maybe was, Doris? Will Thor survive her curiosity? Will Cass' brother and sister-in-law live to regret visiting her for Christmas?

I'm not telling. If you enjoy solving puzzles within puzzles, so to speak, and enjoy a good mystery, you'll want to read this book. This was a new series to me but worked nicely as a stand-alone. That said, I'm intrigued enough to be on the lookout for the previous two books and the next in the series.

 Thank you #NetGalley and #TheWildRosePressInc for the copy. It was an intriguing puzzle!

A Very Furry Christmas Mystery (Curly Bay Animal Rescue #8) by Donna Doyle

 

This is a sweet, wonderful story of dog rescue wrapped up in Christmas paper as a cozy mystery. Courtney's efforts to find creative ways to find homes for the pets at the shelter she manages collide with murder but, well, this is a Christmas mystery, so it's all rather subtle. Gracie the Golden Retriever is the ultimate heroine and, again, this being Christmas, not only is the murderer caught, Courtney's media appearances do wonders for the adoption rates. I loved the dogs, especially Gracie, and look forward to getting my hands on some of the other books of this series. It's a short, quick read with lots of adorable dogs and cats. What more could we ask for in a Christmas read?

Enough Already: Learning to Love the Way I Am Today, by Valerie Vertinelli

I see myself in Valerie Bertinelli. We're of the same generation and, of course, I watched her grow up in front of my eyes. I wasn't expecting such raw honesty from her in "Enough Already" and at times it felt like she was speaking directly to me. Like her, I've always tried to control things, seeing that as a way to please others. I, too, saw my parents into their Golden Years and beyond and have lost others I've loved. Also, like her, there's that dang perpetual ten pounds I'd love to lose but, well, unlike her it's never dominated my life since I didn't have to answer to a camera lens that showed all faults. Bertinelli is a brave woman to have bared her soul here, including the death of the love of her life, Eddie Van Halen. Cancer sucks.

As noted above, so many things in this book spoke to my heart. If you've ever doubted yourself, ever felt you weren't enough, weren't doing enough, or simply failed to enjoy the small things in life that are, in the grand scheme of things, you will perhaps feel the same. I was also reminded in her discussion of where her family came from that we are probably distant cousins through Claypoole family tie s. Maybe that is part of why I felt such empathy with her as the book progressed and I knew it was getting closer and closer to the point where she'd lose Eddie. who knows? Again, in the grand scheme of things, irrelevant, but little things like that help bring us all together. Let's all heed her suggestion that we stop wasting time and learn to love ourselves and get on with embracing the joys of everyday life. Thank you, my maybe distant cousin for those words of wisdom.