V2 by Robert Harris

 An historical fiction about the V2, the birth of rocketry and from both German and British points of view. If developed earlier in the war the outcome might have been different. It was a terrible weapon used in an awful manner. Fairly well-written with interesting main characters and an enigmatic Werner von Braun in the wings.

Black Elk Speaks by Black Elk

Story of the last days of free Indians in the Black Hills area as told in the words of Black Elk and his contemporaries. Black Elk was a "holy" man who had visions. Engaging if painful story told from a completely "alien" point of view with pre-Christian almost revelation-type visions. Unlike any other book I can recall offhand. It is sad but every American would benefit reading it.

The Shadow of the Sword by Tom Holland

(half read aloud, ended by the more usual method)

As the reviews stated, this ~400-page book takes 300 pages to get to Islam itself. As I understand his thesis, he is saying the origins of Islam are obscure and the dominant narrative is implausible. He doesn't say this, but it is implied, I feel. The vocabulary of the book is quite remarkable. The cast of characters is overwhelming.

 

A Better Man by Louise Penny

 Interesting plot, good characters though her Armand is more saint than human. And her old ladies are too profane for my taste. Explores the desperation of family ties and the sad legacy of domestic violence.

Night of the Confessor by Tomáš Halík

(read for book group)

Very thoughtful writing which probes the meaning of belief and doubt. He is interested in those who don't believe in God but believe in "something." Also he thinks that using words about God's "existence" makes it seem like God is a "thing" or "noun" and that more properly, in short, God exists in a different way than anything else in his creation exists. Perhaps "narration" as in Bible stories is closer than theological and philosophical speculations.

Never too Old for a Pierhead Jump by David Black

Book 6 of 6. Continues the story of Harry Gilmour finishing the war as captain of his sub. Engaging, well-told stories, good characters and pacing, seeing the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and South Asian seas. Stories all historically true it seems, woven into a plausible reality.

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larsen

For a history so well-known, this account of Churchill and the leadership of WWII was interesting, fresh, and even exciting. The author purposely uses information from a bodyguard, a top aide, and his young daughter to shed a new light on this remarkable man. An engaging read done with respect and delight without ignoring flaws, failures, and the evil of war.