Alice Hoffman

I was first introduced to Alice Hoffman's work through her book Practical Magic. This novel was made into a movie starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. I honestly remember liking the movie but then again I was in middle school when it came out. I think a lot of people lump Hoffman's work into the genre of "chick lit" because of this movie. However, I think she is a cut above most of those type of books.

It was a few weeks ago when I finally got around to reading Hoffman's first published novel, Property Of. The story centers around an unnamed narrator and her involvement with a charismatic gang leader named McKay. McKay is president of a gang called the Orphans. This book will bring you to your knees. It uses lyrical language in a way that is so grounded in reality that you are at once totally involved with the story. Hoffman captures what it means to be in love and the dangers of all kinds of addiction.

My favorite novel by Hoffman so far is The Probable Future. The Probable Future centers around the Sparrow family, a group of women who all have extraordinary abilities. Here, I fell in love with the characters. I absolutely rooted for them. I highly recommend this book.

I have not had a chance to read her most recent book, The Story Sisters. Have you? I'd love to hear if you think it is good.

Revive

Hello.

Out of the many things Jillian and I have in common, a common constant is that we are always reading. So we have decided to refocus this blog on books.

I am a book junkie. Nancy Pearl is my role model. I can talk about novels I have read forever. I have been known to check out more books than I can carry. I am constantly awed by great reads - the classics as well as debut novels. I collect art books and signed first editions but mostly I buy used books -- so much cheaper!

I hope you check out our blog to find out what we are reading and to share your favorite reads.

Happy reading!