This is an engaging story offering profound wisdom, challenging stereotypes of dysfunctional families and poverty. It is the story of poverty and neglect on the outside, but of loyalty, love, acceptance and strength on the inside. This book is reminiscent of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn -- strength and beauty prevail, as evidenced by Walls' well written and thought provoking work.

This book is written from an interesting perspective -- Jamison is both manic-depressive and a clinical psychiatrist. It is a testament to the power of love and acceptance as part of coping with mental illness.

The people with stories are not only those with tales of perserverence, forgiveness, danger or uniqueness -- everyone has valuable insights into life. A theme throughout the book is accepting one's self, and the ongoing process of gaining comfort with one's everyday life.

A must read for dog lovers -- funny and touching.

It is hard to believe this book is true. So often we take so much for granted: dignity, food, warmth, freedom from pain.

Another raw and honest book, Sebold's journey through her rape is stunning. Her insights are crucial for anyone who is familiar with the roles and labels of being a victim, "Magically, I became a story, not a person, and story implies a kind of ownership by the storyteller." A very powerful book.