Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I don't read a lot of memoirs, but I did read "The Tenth Island" by this author some time back because the subject matter interested me (my parents stayed for parts of a year in the Azores when I was a baby and I grew up in the Central Valley in California). I enjoyed her easy writing style and self deprecating humor and didn't hesitate to choose another book by her, especially as the subject matter and setting once again interested me. The book flows well, with crisp descriptions and just enough additional background or history to inform without boring the reader with unnecessary details. I love how with a few deft sentences the author makes the people and places come to life and I can see them in my mind as if I were there. I don't think this is a book for everyone but I do recommend it not only for those who typically enjoy memoirs, but also for those who may not consider memoirs yet love the natural world around us, and have an interest in caring for it. If you liked "The Puma Years" (another First Reads choice some months back) then definitely read this. Very different writers and experiences but equally interesting and beautiful descriptions of jungle flora and fauna. It's pretty clean; random profanity scattered very sparsely here and there but that's about it. It's overall very enjoyable; fast moving, yet flows smoothly. I enjoyed that the author references a few things, including the beginnings of her relationship with Moody, from her previous book, but you can certainly read this one without having read "The Tenth Island". Solid 4.5 stars rated up to 5 because it is book which will stick with me and I will continue to think about.