Escape
By Carolyn Jessop
What a harrowing story. What a brave woman. Born into the polygamous Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints, Carolyn became the fourth wife of Meril Jessop when she was 18. This was not one big happy family. Jessop was abusive and controlling. The wives were jealous and cruel to one another and each others children. Carolyn gave birth to 8 children with no prenatal care and received no financial, physical or emotional support through four life threatening pregnancies and the serious illness of her 7th baby. This book offers insight into this mysterious religious sect and is the story of a brave woman’s survival and fight for her children.
- Phyllis
700 Sundays
by Billy Crystal
This is a really satisfying, deeply felt and humorously presented reminiscence of growing up in Long Island and New York. Billy Crystal recalls in glorious detail the times spent with his father, who died when Billy was fifteen, and of his extended circle of interesting relatives who he often performed for at a young age.
His father booked jazz musicians so you’ll hear of first hand encounters with Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong and others on the Commodore label. Classic bits about the family’s grey on grey Belvedere, going to Yankees games, visiting the Catskills and jokes about his uncles are balanced with love and admiration for his parents who showed him the way.
I’m sure the one man stage play is excellent; this may be the next best thing.
- Phil
Every Second Counts
By Lance Armstrong
This is an excellent book to read prior to Armstrong’s attempt at a record six straight Tour de France victories in 2004. That would be an awesome achievement. Reading this book will give you unique perspectives and insight into what makes the brash Texan so tenacious and motivated.
Lance shares his thoughts on a variety of topics along the way, covering details from each of his tour victories, his preparation, the incessant doping control visits and his life in Spain and France. He treads upon the trials of his marriage, his disappointment at his Olympic performances, his great supporting teams on US Postal Service and how he is looked upon in the cancer survivor community.
Having seen him race a few times early in his career and as a devoted Tour de France fan, I highly recommend this book.
-Phil
Comments (0) 
