Very moving. Christchurch 125

We had mixed opinions on this book. Several of us thought it was too long, but were pleased to have learnt the story. Hamilton 034

The group agreed that this was an "important read', and were grateful to have been exposed to Irena Sendler's story. Too much to talk about - however it was a very positive discussion. Christchurch 229

The story of Irena Sendler was of great interest, but most readers did not like the style, finding it too simplistic. There were mixed reactions to the story of the Kansas girls - some found this fascinating, others were bored by it. All agreed the wartime treatment of Jews was unfathomable and reprehensible, and that Irena and all those that helped showed great courage. We could not imagine ourselves in those circumstances, or know how we would act... Auckland 050

We were all very pleased to have learnt about Irena Sendler. The style of writing irritated some, but the total story was well worth the read. A fascinating lady; and we all wondered how we would cope in the same situation. It is a story that needs to be told, and all credit to the students and their teacher. Dannevirke 001

We all enjoyed this book despite the small print. Recommended by all. Good discussion held. Drummond 001

What a wonderful read. Most of our group had already read this and it was enjoyed again by all. If we had had this one before the survey ( to choose our favourite book) this would have beaten the others. An excellent, well written book. Winton 001

A very dense and verbose story using 10 words where one would do; it nevertheless told quite a compelling and interesting chapter in American social and sporting history. Essentially this was Joe Rantz's story, which was a pretty tragic one. It was amazing what he achieved when compared with his upbringing and circumstances.... Pukeko 001

We all loved 'The Boys in the Boat'. Some loved the detail about the rowing, others enjoyed the background stories of deprivation in the Depression, and the rise of Hitler. The photos added to the book's authenticity and enjoyment. A book to be highly recommended to others. Wellington 050

An excellent discussion. All enjoyed the book - some more than others. Small print not enjoyed. Enjoyed the history - led to greater understanding of the effects of the Depression. Author's style had us in the boat on tenterhooks. Ashburton 003

An excellent book. Provoked a lively and interesting discussion. Riversdale 001

Everybody enjoyed Second Chances, and felt that the author handled all the various threads of the plot well. She touched on several very contemporary issues - drug abuse, child abuse, immigration and family dynamics - and held our interest throughout.. Katikati 001

Everyone loved our book this month. Most agreed it was the very best book we had read this year. We really felt that Norman's experience as a barrister gave her great insight into how real people deal with difficult circumstances. We thought she created a very believable family dynamic. As New Zealanders, we loved the way she saw NZ through the eyes of immigrants - the scenery, the generosity and friendship of the locals. Otorohanga 003

A well paced and well researched story. There was plenty to discuss with issues around migration, teenage difficulties and NZ drug problems. We recommend this book! Tauranga 015

This was an enjoyable read, with themes particularly familiar to some of the migrants in our group. An author to look out for. Timaru 016

Mixed reviews - some loved it, others thought it readable but not a great read, more of a holiday read. Wellington 120

There was a unanimously positive reponse by our group to 'Requiem'. It was felt that the novel was well constructed, with amazingly descriptive passages, dealing with emotions sensitively. All agreed that it was well researched and instructive. We were ignorant of the Japanese internment camps in the USA and Canada, and knew little of the camp in Featherston. Whangarei 002