Truth and Lies during the Spanish Inquisition

I really liked this book.  It is a historical fiction.  I know most students avoid historical fiction, but I enjoy them because they offer me an opportunity to learn about events that I might have limited knowledge about. 

Well, it is a story about two best friends and how their relationships change during the Spanish Inquisition.  One girl learns that everything she has been told about herself and her family is a lie.  The other girl reacts in a jealous manner, which leads to betrayal.  The story begins slowly but if you stay with it, you will enjoy.

Sun Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

This is an amazingly honest book that recounts the experiences of two girls growing up in 19^th century China.  They come from different worlds (i.e. social classes) but are drawn together and become best friends.  This story shows the joys and pains of foot-binding, nu shu (secret handkerchief writing), arranged marriages, and motherhood.  This is an excellent, must-read for anyone interested in learning about other cultures.  Historical Fiction. 

Kindred by Octavia Butler

This is one of the best books I’ve ever read—it is Phenomenal.  Kindred was written by the first black science fiction writer.  The story begins with a young woman, Dana, celebrating her 26^th birthday with her new husband.  Abruptly, she is snatched back to the days of slavery by her ancestor.  She is summoned by her ancestor to protect a young boy.  He must grow to manhood and father the daughter who will become her ancestor.  Each time she goes back, it become more difficult to return to modern day.  This book ought to become a required read for students studying African-American history and/or American slavery.  Highly recommended.  Historical/Science fiction.