How to Wash a Cat by Rebecca M Hale

Genre
Fiction (Mystery)

Synopsis
Dead of an apparent stroke, Oscar leaves the care of his antique shop to his niece.  She begins to sift through the contents and starts to wonder if Uncle Oscar's death may have been directly related to the Gold Rush legend he'd been investigating.  This story is the tale of tulip-shaped cufflinks, an obnoxious neighbor, a badly stuffed kangaroo, and two cats who are loaded with personality.

Why Should You Read It?
It's a quick mystery and lots of fun to read.

What Can You Learn From the Author's Writing?
Why editors and "experts" say you should cut adverbs from your writing and how easily one can overuse adjectives.

Overall Rating
2 smiles

Catch 22 by Joseph Heller

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Synopsis
Yossarian is a bomber during War.  He wants to fly his missions and go home.  The problem is Colonel Cathcart keeps raising the number of missions that need to be completed before you can be relieved of service.  Follow Yossarian and the boys as they try to find creative ways to end their service without ending their lives.

Why Should You Read It?
If you like military stories, this is a good novel for you.  

What Can You Learn From the Author's Writing?
How to change characters in third person.

Overall Rating
1 smile.  I have to be honest, I couldn't finish this one (making it the second book I've started and not finished in my entire life).