By Mary Doria Russell

WOW!  I love historical fiction, and this book delivers.  Agnes Shanklin, the naïve and constrained narrator, takes the reader from the early 1900’s, through the great influenza epidemic, World War I and across the sea to the Middle East, and finally home to Ohio, emerging as a strong and courageous woman.  I was amazed at what I learned about historic events and people through her fictional account.   Her vivid characterization and portrayal of human relationships, her lovely writing style, her factual understanding of the people and events, and her warm and funny wit—all these combine to make this THE BEST BOOK I HAVE READ IN QUITE SOME TIME. 

                                                     Reviewed by Gayle Wingerter

A Memoir by Shannon Kring Biro and Natalie Kring

This hilarious and touching memoir is a must-read for any girl who grew up in constant rivalry with her sister.  It takes the reader along as the girls grow up, each chapter alternating between Shannon, the older, prettier and more outgoing sister, and Natalie, the quiet, quirky, and oft-picked on sister.  Out in paperback this May 1!

 Shannon Kring Brio is creator, writer, executive producer, and co-star of the Emmy Award-winning national PBS reality-cooking series The Kitchens of Brio.

           Reviewed by Piper Richmond