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08 February 2011

on the street where i live

The Street of the City by Grace Livingston Hill

How did I come about reading this book? When I was either in middle or high school, my mom bought me a set of hardback Grace Livingston Hill books.  I'm positive it was because of her name.  One of those books turned out to be one of my favorite books.  Since I've been reading so many classics, I decided it would be a good idea to put some easy reads on my list.  I needed to expand from the tea mysteries and Agatha Christie mysteries, so I included GLH.  The day I went antiquing with my family at Thanksgiving, we stopped in a shop that a very large collection of GLH books.  I bought a couple for $1 each.  I happen to be reading Atlas Shrugged, which is a very large book.  It's very awkward to be reading in bed, so I needed a lightweight book (in holding and thinking).  I chose The Street of the City because it had snow on the cover and it was near/during the time of my snowcation that I began reading the book.
What did I learn about the author? Once upon a time, I read something about her.  It's been awhile.
Is the book science fiction? Not even a mention.
Is the book illustrated? No, but I do like the book cover throwback.
Do I like the characters? Yes except the side story of the two spies.  I skimmed through most of their dialog because they were annoying.
Does the book remind me of anyone I know? Not really so much this time.  We live in a different day and time...and reality.
Is there an identifiable central conflict? The central plot is Frannie's family settling into their home.  They meet several challenges along the way - Frannie's mother becomes ill, two spies are trying to overtake their home in the still hours of night, Marrietta is trying to win over Valient.  It all works out in the end.  It always does in GLH's books.  I should like that it always works out, but it's very predictable and unrealistic.
Did any part of the book inspire me in any way? No, but it's so crazy that the book I picked up to read immediately after finishing this one was also set during WWII and about catching spies and then the next night my netflix was a WWII movie about housing issues and love.  We can pretend I did all of that on purpose.
Will I read any other books by this author? Yes. The list is long.  Even though the stories are pretty unrealistic (especially in the time in which we live), they do always have a great message, which is always good bedtime reading.
How long did it take me to read the book? About 3 weeks.  If you really want to read it to read it, then it should only take you a couple days.
What is one word that describes this book? Heartwarmingduringacoldwinter.

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