Hannah's List (Debbie Macomber)

This was a great opportunity to pick up a book that's getting a lot of play in public libraries right now.

One year prior to the book's opening, Michael's wife, Hannah, died from ovarian cancer. Hannah's brother presents Michael with a final letter from her, which was to be opened one year after her death. In the letter, Hannah shares her wish that Michael re-marry; in fact, she has chosen 3 potential mates for him. The 3 prospects, who had all been impacted by Hannah's life, are quite diverse. As the story unfolds, Michael navigates these potential relationships, trying to honor Hannah's wish list.

This was a quick, easy read with fast-moving action. Macomber moved the story along without unnecessary description or fanfare. I think this book could easily be adapted into a film project. In my mind, I was casting the parts as I read - Cameron Diaz should play Macy! Macomber's characterization seemed kind of unbalanced with some characters fully formed and some sketchy through the end of the book. I think I really wanted to dislike this book (and romance lit in general). However, this was a pleasant read with a believable story, which needed some "fleshing out" in certain parts. I will probably give another Debbie Macomber title a try.

If you enjoy Hannah's List, you might also try the following fiction reads:

Dream When You're Feeling Blue - Elizabeth Berg (Random House, 2007)

This novel, set in the "home front" during World War II, is typical of Berg's works - strong, fully developed women characters acting extraordinarily under ordinary circumstances. The narration is fluid and expressive without being saccharine.

Time Is a River - Mary Alice Monroe (Pocket, 2008)

This piece of contemporary fiction, like several of Monroe's other books, weaves powerful themes of nature throughout the plot. Monroe's women characters are genuine and complete; her language is true and sparse. The reader feels a real connection to the characters contained on the pages.

The following nonfiction reads might also be of interest:

Promise Me: How a Sister's Love Launched the Global Movement to End Breast Cancer - Nancy G. Brinker (Broadway, 2010)

Brinker, a breast cancer survivor, penned this tribute to her sister, who succumbed to the disease. That sister was Susan G. Komen, and Brinker led (and continues to lead) a foundation that promises to "one day cure breast cancer for good." This book puts real human faces on this disease and shows the power that one committed person can make.

The Widower's Toolbox: Repairing Your Life after Losing Your Spouse - G. J. Schaefer (New Horizon Press, 2010)

This book has a niche audience but is a valuable addition to a public library collection. Working on the premise that men and women grieve differently, the author attempts to help men who've lost spouses identify and resolve the issues that may be overwhelming and, ultimately, help men move forward. This book's value to women readers might lie in its potential to shed light on the other gender's perspective under enormous emotion.