Finding Casey by Jo-Ann Mapson

Finding Casey, Jo-Ann Mapson. New York: Bloomsbury USA, 2012. e-book, 256 pps.

     I really enjoyed Solomon's Oak and I was excited to discover the next book which continues the story of the family. In the beginning of Finding Casey Glory, Joseph, and Juniper are living in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The family continues to thrive happily-- with occasional glitches-- in everyday living. Juniper has matured into a college student. Glory and Joseph have married. 

sapphoq reviews says: The presence of "The Farm," a dysfunctional sort of commune run by a violent man felt especially real to me as did the description of the Santa Fe market and the woman in crisis. Finding Casey is a heart-warming story written with Jo-Ann Mapson's fine lyrical style. I absolutely loved this book. Highly recommended.

Solomon's Oak by Jo-Ann Mapson

Solomon's Oak, Jo-Ann Mapson.  New York:  Bloomsbury USA,  2010.
     Solomon's Oak is an outstanding novel.  From the first pages, I was transported into the life of Glory Solomon, a widow still grieving for her husband.  She has money problems and hits on an ingenious way to address the bills coming in.  She hosts a wedding in the chapel which her late husband built.  In the midst of the festivities, a social worker drops off Juniper, a teen with a bit of an attitude and nowhere else to go.  Glory's camera quits and a guy named Joseph with a camera happens to wander through, saving the day.  What happens afterwards is a delight.
 
     sapphoq reviews says:  I found much about this book to love.  The lyrical language and vivid descriptions in Solomon's Oak transported me almost immediately into the world of the small Californian farming community.    The characters were well-drawn and likeable.  Each character had a history and a family history attached.  There was a flavor of Mexico throughout the book and I found that to be appealing.  Even the farm animals were imbued with personalities and their own quirks.  Every detail built up to the crescendo and then led me to a satisfying ending.   
     If you are seeking a fast-action book, look elsewhere.  If you want a book that is far more than chick lit that is to be slowly read and savored, this is the book for you.  Highly recommended.