November 15, 2018 BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

 If you grew up in MY generation--go see BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY. I wasn't a QUEEN FREAK or anything BUT THEY WERE IT--IN THE EARLY 80's--for good reason.  Freddy Mercury was an incredible performer. He could REALLY work the stage--much like--Mic Jagger, Robert Plant, Steven Tyler. His--energy--charisma--personality--were second to none. He also had a keen sense of style and could ROCK the CRAZIEST OUTFITS. Not too many men can wear WOMEN'S CLOTHING AND LOOK GREAT! Most important though-- he could really SING--PLAY several instruments --WRITE his own songs. What a talented individual.  The other members of the band--although much TAMER--were equally incredible--musicians--singers-- songwriters-- in their own right. They were the perfect cocktail for that time period. Can't help but wonder what QUEEN would be up to if Mercury were alive. So-- If you're looking for a temporary BLAST TO THE PAST check it out. It is well worth the ride. Not sure Linton Malegarde  will think his plane ride to Paris was worth the effort, especially, after the the Seine bursts its banks and floods the city in Tatiana De Rosnay's new novel The Rain Watcher. 

After many years apart, Linden, a celebrated photographer, is traveling from New York to Paris for a reunion with his family. His father, Paul, is a renowned arborist,  whose obsession  with trees has taken a toll on his family, especially, his wife Lauren. They are also joined by Linden's unhappily married  sister, Tilia and her daughter Mistral. This seemingly happy family hasn't spent time together for good reason. They each have hidden fears and secrets that keep them apart.  While at dinner the first night, Paul has a massive stroke and is rushed to the hospital. The next day, Laura comes down with a case of pneumonia and is quarantined to her hotel room. Paul and Tilia must take charge of the family and wrestle with the ghosts of the past while Paris is being evacuated as water covers the city.  If you read Sarah's Key a few years ago and liked it, this book is written by the same author. She is a good writer who knows how to tell a story. Find out what happens to this family when you read this 225 page novel --3 mile run--  for yourself.