Hubble: Window on the Universe by Giles Sparrow

Non-Fiction - 5 stars

OK, this book gets 5 stars for the pictures alone. This was an early birthday present for Megan from Grandma and Paw paw Gilbert, and she loved it. Over 400 surreal images of planets, galaxies, and other cosmic entities are arranged and described in this large hardback gem. It is amazing what that telescope sends back from the depths of space. As a science buff, Megan was thrilled to have this one to add to her shelf.

The Pioneer Woman Cooks by Ree Drummond

Non-Fiction/Cooking - 5 stars

This book has been a staple in my house in the last year and a half. Simple recipes, awesome photography, and Ree's humor all lend to this being a great book. While definitely not for the most health-conscious among us, the recipes are not nearly as fat-filled and decadent as, say, Paula Deen's. They're just plain good cookin'. The photography is a bonus!

When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin

Fiction - 3.5 stars

This book is just plain good. Set in North Georgia, When Crickets Cry is the story of Reese, a mysterious man who lives on Lake Burton next to his brother-in-law, Charlie, and Annie, a young girl in need of a new heart. Filled with humor, heartbreaking tragedy, and hope, this book was a quick read and had a wonderful message.  Its a true Southern tale by a Jacksonville writer, and I really loved it.

Portobello by Ruth Rendell

Fiction - 3 stars

Just to show everyone that I don't only read children's books, I had to post this. I finished this book just before Christmas, and it was a decent read. It is a character-driven mystery written for people who have some knowledge of British dialect and culture. Complete with an anti-hero, an obsessive compulsive savior-figure, and other complex (if not a little weird) characters, Portobello is the cause and effect story of events happening in the Notting Hill community along the Portobello Road. I loved it because, well, I love anything British.  It is definitely not feel-good, but depicts a snapshot of characters who could really exist. A slice of life piece, if you will, for the suburbanites.