Before Judge Judy was “Judge Judy,” she was Judge Sheindlin, a Family Court judge in Manhattan.  When she became fed up with the system, she wrote this book, detailing the decline in personal responsibility that she’s seen over the years, and how our broken court system contributes to the mess.  Although I don’t agree with Sheindline on everything (her views on abortion, for example), it’s refreshing to read an open, honest and informed assessment about where we’re going wrong, and what we need to do to fix it.

When Willie has to give up his beloved German Shepherd, Cracker, he chooses to give her to the military, rather than the pound.  Cracker is soon paired up with Rick and sent to Vietnam, where she alerts soldiers to the dangers of traps and ambushes.

This was an excellent book. Although it will appeal to readers of all ages, it would be a great choice for middle school boys.  Cracker’s story, combined with the tension of the war and Rick’s struggle to prove himself as the best dog handler in Vietnam will draw in the most reluctant of readers.

April has been cancer-free for 5 years.  Her husband has almost completed the family’s dream home.  Life should be perfect, but April feels restless and unsettled.  When she stumbles across a tiny beach bungalow for sale, April thinks she’s found what she needs for peace.

I’ve read some absolutely fantastic books this year.  To help steer you towards some of the highlights, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite books from 2008.  They can be found on my Top Pikks page.  What better way to kick off the new year than with a great book?

While Alexa recovers from surgery, she searches for her missing sister, uncovers old family secrets, reunites with her twin and falls in love.  A sweet story about forgiveness and living life with hope.

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