Running the Rift

by: Naomi Benaron

"Running the Rift is a power story of the Rwandan genocide. It follows a young promising runner who becomes an icon of hope for the country plagued by division. The book takes the reader on a roller coaster of emotions following this young man as he matures as a person and runner. In the midst of this evolution the reader is treated to an insight about the growing concerns between the Hutus and Tutsis. The book ends with a climax of events that keep the reader tuning page after page. This book is guaranteed to challenge your perception of the human ability for love and cruelty all at the same time."

Reviewed by: Curt McPhail - Spartanburg, SC

A Death on the Wolf

by: G. M. Frazier

"Where were you in 1969? I just read this wonderful book and could not put it down It is a jewel.In the tradition of Pat Conroy, the author delivers a story of two fathers, two friends, a harrowing time in Mississippi history, and lives forever changed. You will cry and you will cheer. You will love this book."

Reviewed by: BJ King - Greer, SC

This Is Where I Leave You

by: Jonathan Tropper

"This Is Where I Leave You is a very clever and hilarious book. Jonathan Tropper does not disappoint. The sheer dysfunction in this family made me laugh, cry, and totally relate. Tropper pulls you in and doesn't let go. Don't get me wrong, as funny as this novel was it was also poignant. Books like this come along once in a lifetime. I LOVED this book. Buy it, read it, you will enjoy it. Even if it is out of the norm of what you normally read. Tropper appears at the Spartanburg Public Library Nov. 10 at 7 pm."

Reviewed by: Heather Blackwell - Pauline, SC

In the Garden of Beasts

by: Erik Larson

"When William Dodd first arrives in Berlin in 1933 to begin his assignment as ambassador to Germany, he labels himself a frustrated academic and hopes finally to be able to finish his monographic tome on the history of the South. What he finds instead is a Weimar-era inspired city full of life, affluence and the nascent and shadowy promise of Nazi oppressions to come--a situation that will require all of his diplomatic abilities. Larson captures the drama of his characters (especially Dodd's flirtatious daughter, Martha) and the historical setting brilliantly. A compelling and powerful read."

Reviewed by: Kam Neely - Spartanburg, SC