Planting Dandelions
My local branch library is tiny, about 700 square feet, and close to my house. I went over the other day to pick up a book on hold and they had the latest issue of People magazine on display behind the counter.
While the librarian was checking out my book, I said “Can I see that issue of People?”
She told me I could go sit down and read it, but I said, “Oh, no, I just wanted to see the book reviews – one of my friends has a book that is mentioned in this issue.”
Together we found the book, Kyran Pittman’s “Planting Dandelions,” which People had loved as much as I had (they called it “fearless” and gave it four stars).
I found myself saying to the librarian, “Whenever one of my friends has a book published, I always hope it is going to be very good, and this time, it really was.”
She gave me kind of a funny look, and then I realized that my comment made me sound like a pretentious git. Whenever one of my friends has a book published…
It is true, though! One of the best things blogging has brought me is the proximity to good writers, to people who do indeed have books published. And who appear on the Today Show and in the New York Times and in the Wall Street Journal… And blogging has also brought my friends in proximity to people who want to publish books by good writers. Hooray.
Kyran’s book is a memoir of her family life, of ordinary moments and dreams and struggles chronicled so beautifully and honestly that I wanted it never to end. I remember when I read Anne Lamott’s book “Operating Instructions” about having her son, and how its raw honesty was so breathtakingly groundbreaking. “Planting Dandelions” is just as honest, but in a quieter, less manic way. It is well worth reading. Check it out.
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Suebob's Red Stapler 
I think that’s right up there with my, “Whenever one of my friends has a book published I’m always scared to read it in case I hate it.”
It HAS happened…
How strange to think anyone could walk into a library anywhere and ask to see anything with my name on it!! I know exactly what you mean by “hoping it’s good,” and so this review is especially meaningful for me.
Thank you, dear friend. xo
I couldn’t do a *real* review because I already gave the book to my mom and she won’t give it back!
I need a new book to read! This one sounds great! I like books where the author IS honest – more with their feelings than anything else. If they aren’t, it shows.
http://www.booshy.com <— that's me!
I feel the same way, and then I feel like an ass for talking about all my published friends, but it is true! We have really talented friends.
I haven’t read “Planting Dandelions” yet, but I heard Kyran read from it and the excerpts were excellent. I can’t wait to read the whole thing.
That first year we went to BlogHer in San Jose, there were maybe 2 or 3 people with books…now everyone has one. What about you and me? When are we going to write OUR books?
I was saying that to someone the other day. It’s so wild, but really not. We are part of such a vibrant, creative community. So great to see all the books.
I hope some of it will wear off on me if I hang around long enough.
Thank you for the recommendation, Sista! I shall be certain to check it out.
This is by the blogger/writer of Notes to Self, right? Can’t wait to read it.
That is her indeed. I love her writing.