The Rise and Fall of Great Powers

March 24, 2014
Rachman follows up the debut success of The Imperfectionists with a suspenseful novel that whisks readers around the world, from Sydney to Bangkok to New York. This coming-of-age story focuses on the life of fiercely independent late-bloomer Tooly Zylberberg, who, in her early 30s, opens a ramshackle bookstore in the small Welsh town of Caergenog. Jumping between three decades, the global-scale mystery surrounding Tooly slowly unravels. It begins in 2011, when Tooly’s ex-boyfriend contacts her about her dying former caretaker, whom he believes is her father. The novel weaves a critique of modern society through Tooly’s odyssey, with a cast of characters grappling with the mundane realities of the 21st century. The novel loses steam toward the end, but the journey is still worth taking. Agent: Susan Golomb, Susan Golomb Agency.

March 1, 2015
In 2011, journalist Katz was asked to shelter a very sick donkey rescued from a farm in New York. With a farmstead already housing dogs, chickens, sheep, and a couple of donkeys, he opened his heart to an animal so sick that he required almost constant care. Katz ("The Dogs of Bedlam Farm") chronicles his experiences nursing the donkey he named Simon back to health and integrating him into his farm. Simon anecdotes are seamlessly interspersed with donkey lore and insights into the roles of domestic animals in agrarian life. Tom Stechshulte narrates in such a natural and expressive style that listening to this memoir is like taking a walk with Simon himself. VERDICT This sweet memoir will be of interest to animal lovers, fans of the author, and those interested in small-scale agriculture.--Janet Martin, Southern Pines P.L., NC

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