How to get dressed

I expected more of small coffee table book when I ordered this something more casual and entertaining, but instead I found that it to be more practical and informational. At first all the information seemed overwhelming, but after thumbing through it a second time, I realized that the author has the categories broken up and very well organized. You can easily skip the parts you don't feel apply to you and go straight to the sections where you need most help. (I already know the sections I plan to keep bookmarked for reminders.....especially the care sections and stain removal). It's like having a fashion & clothing 'field guide' to go to for reference! I'm actually kind of glad this book is not what I expected. This book offers everyday advise, things that you don't read every time you open a fashion magazine. The tricks she's learned over the years, along with short stories as to how she discovered each one, are very helpful and amusing. With the simple, vintage inspired design of this book, I will happily let it decorate my living space. I think this will be a book that my guests find themselves flipping through for bits of helpful advise while they wait for me to pour the next glass of wine.

Ruby

When I started this book, I had no idea I was about to read a book so dark and haunting. At first I had a hard time getting into step with the authors writing style, next I had a hard time digesting the content of the book. I considered shelving the book and moving on to something else, but I found myself unable to do so. My curiosity had me yearning to find out how Ruby came to be the tortured soul she grew into and if the story ended with any redeeming quality. I loved Ephraims calm, unselfish devotion in doing what his heart told him to do and what he knew to be right. I also loved seeing Ruby finally being able to see herself as something of worth. All the in between parts were very hard to read. It did however make me think. Although most of this book was set in the early 1970's and some of the struggles stayed in that time...in small towns, some struggles are still very real and relevant in todays time, i.e. child trafficking and witchcraft. I commend the author for opening eyes on subjects that most would rather keep under the rug and for having writing something compelling enough that it kept me reading even though it was not my favorite style or subject matter. I gave this 3 stars not because of the actual writing, but because, I don't know how many friends or family I could actually recommend this to with its disturbing plot.