Vashon Writers’ Office Island Book Reviews

Writers are like chameleons. They tend to disappear into the multi-colored canvas of life unintentionally and generally without regret. As such, most islanders are unaware that the Vashon they know and love is considered to be, by the Seattle Writing Scene, “an island of writers.” Our goal, as members of the VWO, is to open your eyes to the literary menagerie that surrounds you. As members of the thriving and growing writers’ community on Vashon Island, we can often be found at the Localvore Lit Booth at the Vashon Farmer’s Market. Drop by and take home a fabulous piece of local literature!

Review #1
Book Title: Notes from the Asylum
Author: Mark A. Goldman
Reviewed by: March Twisdale

It can be said, with a fair degree of certainty, that most people know something is wrong in the world. And, below the veneer of geographic or cultural details, Mark A. Goldman’s collection of essays touches upon the root causes of most global worries. Like many essayists, there is little lightness in Goldman’s twenty commentaries. His pen ranges from power & individual responsibility to the varied and oft-forgotten prerequisites of freedom. The Constitution of the United States of America, in particular, makes an appearance in nearly every essay from “The Conspiracy to Cheat God,” to “In Pursuit of Sustainability.” After reading, Notes from the Asylum, I suspect you will agree that Mark A. Goldberg has taken a brave step in offering up his thoughts for any and all to see.

Review #2
Book Title: Garden On Vashon
Author: Karen Dale
Reviewed by: Delinda McCann

This is a must have book for islanders even if you don’t garden.  In her 249 page book, Dale covers much of the history of the island, including a section on the Beall Greenhouses and another on the Garden Tour.  Her section on soils helps the reader understand how why and when the highway will slide again.  Her piece de resistance is a unit on how to grow the perfect tomato.  Dale traveled down driveways and explored local gardens as she interviewed over a hundred growers for material for her Beachcomber blog by the same name.  This book represents an opportunity to get to know who the people are who grow your food and flowers on Vashon.