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The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume
With her love of sweaters, goofy hair, and awkward manners—not to mention her family curse—Treasure Blume knows love is not in her future. That is, until she matches wits with Dennis Cameron, a divorced chef with a six-year-old daughter. Full of mischief, mayhem, and laugh-out-loud humor, this is an unlikely love story you’ll want to read over and over again!
304 pages, Paperback
First published November 13, 2012
1 person is currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Rumsey Harris
3 books14 followersLisa Rumsey Harris grew up writing stories and riding horses in Southeastern Idaho. She received a bachelor's and master's degree in English from Brigham Young University and is currently a doctoral student in Writing and Rhetoric at the University of Utah. She volunteers at Courage Reins, a equine-assisted therapy facility. She lives in Utah, with her multi-talented husband, her four sassy daughters, one fluffy dog, and two evil cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 30, 2013
The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume
For those of us not believing the airbrushed photos of models advertising a dream image of ourselves if we just buy the product / service / rhetoric, the story of Treasure Blume might be the inspiration everyone, especially young women, always seek. The book is actually meant for the Young Adult market who ravages romantic stories like forbidden midnight chocolate binges. For older witches like yours truly, this is a tongue-in-cheek but fun read. We just do it with our lips zipped and a smile on our faces :-)
However, the protagonist is more real than the fabulous faces adorning a magazine cover or young women's dreams, and that makes her story special. Nobody likes her on first contact. Wow, how would you feel when it happens to you? Does this story resonate within yourself? Or do you know how she must feel in some or other way?
She accepts her genetic looks, educated herself, got a cat and prepared to stay behind when pheromones hit male and female members of the human specie. She instinctively knew that the visual satisfaction(for men) and nesting instincts for young women( read: nice house, nice car, promising bank accounts and looks) attracted the sexes to each other like moths to a flame. The hunt for the very best breeding partner did not promise a winning place for a girl like Treasure Blume. She believed more in her mirror and learnt to turn her back on the people who judged her by her looks alone. She compensated with a refreshing sense of humor nevertheless.
But there are men such as Dennis who got burnt by the flame of the romantic candle the first time around. He was left deeply hurt and with a child he had to raise on his own. He would soon discover more in the teacher who made his daughter happy.
This is a delightful read for the right generation of optimistic love-addicts. It is peppered with wit and wisdom and a feeling of well-being. A great addition to the romance genre, I would say. A book with real heart! I loved Treasure Blume's self confidence and guts!
For those of us not believing the airbrushed photos of models advertising a dream image of ourselves if we just buy the product / service / rhetoric, the story of Treasure Blume might be the inspiration everyone, especially young women, always seek. The book is actually meant for the Young Adult market who ravages romantic stories like forbidden midnight chocolate binges. For older witches like yours truly, this is a tongue-in-cheek but fun read. We just do it with our lips zipped and a smile on our faces :-)
However, the protagonist is more real than the fabulous faces adorning a magazine cover or young women's dreams, and that makes her story special. Nobody likes her on first contact. Wow, how would you feel when it happens to you? Does this story resonate within yourself? Or do you know how she must feel in some or other way?
She accepts her genetic looks, educated herself, got a cat and prepared to stay behind when pheromones hit male and female members of the human specie. She instinctively knew that the visual satisfaction(for men) and nesting instincts for young women( read: nice house, nice car, promising bank accounts and looks) attracted the sexes to each other like moths to a flame. The hunt for the very best breeding partner did not promise a winning place for a girl like Treasure Blume. She believed more in her mirror and learnt to turn her back on the people who judged her by her looks alone. She compensated with a refreshing sense of humor nevertheless.
But there are men such as Dennis who got burnt by the flame of the romantic candle the first time around. He was left deeply hurt and with a child he had to raise on his own. He would soon discover more in the teacher who made his daughter happy.
This is a delightful read for the right generation of optimistic love-addicts. It is peppered with wit and wisdom and a feeling of well-being. A great addition to the romance genre, I would say. A book with real heart! I loved Treasure Blume's self confidence and guts!
December 17, 2012
Life for Treasure Blume is not one of champagne and roses. With the exception of young children and older folk, most people's first impression of her is intense dislike. Very few people hang around for a second impression.
She lives in her apartment with her cat, devotes her life to her job as a first grade teacher, and that's enough for her. She doesn't expect to find love, to settle down and have kids, she expects to grow old and be a cat lady.
Like just about everyone else, Dennis's first impression of Treasure is not favorable, but he sees that she is a good teacher and good for his daughter, Micaela. Over time he starts to see her kind and gentle heart and he finds himself falling for her.
The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is a light, fluffy and relentlessly optimistic. It's about a woman who can see beauty and goodness in anyone and a man who has been burned by love.
Many thanks to Cedar Fort Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
She lives in her apartment with her cat, devotes her life to her job as a first grade teacher, and that's enough for her. She doesn't expect to find love, to settle down and have kids, she expects to grow old and be a cat lady.
Like just about everyone else, Dennis's first impression of Treasure is not favorable, but he sees that she is a good teacher and good for his daughter, Micaela. Over time he starts to see her kind and gentle heart and he finds himself falling for her.
The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is a light, fluffy and relentlessly optimistic. It's about a woman who can see beauty and goodness in anyone and a man who has been burned by love.
Many thanks to Cedar Fort Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
April 25, 2013
Oh no! Treasure as a name? I had such a hard time with it that for the first quarter of the book I had to read it quickly and shorten it to Treas to make the read tolerable. I'm usually alright with symbolism but I just didn't like it this time. Call me fickle. Oh, did I tell you her sister's name was Patience?
That was a hang up but I persevered. I’m glad I did because it ended up being my kind of book. I’m a big fan of books with heart and this had a lot of it. It had many chuckle moments (gotta love Grammy!) as well. The whole story in general was sweet and tender. It dealt with a variety of life issues such as single parenting, self-esteem, social economics, misconceptions, death and dying, dating heartaches, altruism, and so on. With such a grand span, you risk losing depth. But that wasn’t the case here. The entire cast of characters played a collaborative role in bringing forth great meaning and richness to the story. It was nice to see people caring for each other, hence this would make for a wonderful feel good, fun, chick movie because that’s how this read was reeling in my head. I even have part of the cast picked out: Amy Adams as Treasure, Jude Law as Dennis, Mackenzie Foy as Micaela, Bette Midlar as Grammy, Christina Ricci as Aussie, and Robert De Niro as Varden.
I saw a bit of Treasure (yikes, I have an odd name too; but in my defense, it’s common in the Philippines) in me so that’s probably part of the love for this book. I too like children and the elderly. I too initially repel people (in my case, my meekness is mistaken for “get away from me” aura). I too have a kind heart, though I need work in having the level of altruism that Treasure possessed. That said, I was able to empathize with her walk in life because I’ve experience similar animosity and I try to live my life as beautiful as hers. Plus, I’m a romantic at heart so I enjoyed the love story between her and Dennis. Wow, I seriously felt my heart swell (you know, the feeling when you love someone) at the description of their love for each other. Oh, Dennis you’re now in my list of fictional hotties!
Including a Filipino character was also a big plus. Ligwayway, a 6yo Filipina girl, put a big smile on my face. Her little segment with the tinikling (folklore dance) and the teacher house call scene where Dennis can understand and speak a little bit of Tagalog (extra hottie points for him!!) left me with sweet memories of my homeland.
This book spoke to me, hence the highest rating. So if you’re a sentimental softie like me then this is a book for you too!
By the way, the name finally grew on me because the symbolism fit her but if my eReader had the capability to exchange words, I would have used it. ;)
Jinky is Reading
That was a hang up but I persevered. I’m glad I did because it ended up being my kind of book. I’m a big fan of books with heart and this had a lot of it. It had many chuckle moments (gotta love Grammy!) as well. The whole story in general was sweet and tender. It dealt with a variety of life issues such as single parenting, self-esteem, social economics, misconceptions, death and dying, dating heartaches, altruism, and so on. With such a grand span, you risk losing depth. But that wasn’t the case here. The entire cast of characters played a collaborative role in bringing forth great meaning and richness to the story. It was nice to see people caring for each other, hence this would make for a wonderful feel good, fun, chick movie because that’s how this read was reeling in my head. I even have part of the cast picked out: Amy Adams as Treasure, Jude Law as Dennis, Mackenzie Foy as Micaela, Bette Midlar as Grammy, Christina Ricci as Aussie, and Robert De Niro as Varden.
I saw a bit of Treasure (yikes, I have an odd name too; but in my defense, it’s common in the Philippines) in me so that’s probably part of the love for this book. I too like children and the elderly. I too initially repel people (in my case, my meekness is mistaken for “get away from me” aura). I too have a kind heart, though I need work in having the level of altruism that Treasure possessed. That said, I was able to empathize with her walk in life because I’ve experience similar animosity and I try to live my life as beautiful as hers. Plus, I’m a romantic at heart so I enjoyed the love story between her and Dennis. Wow, I seriously felt my heart swell (you know, the feeling when you love someone) at the description of their love for each other. Oh, Dennis you’re now in my list of fictional hotties!
Including a Filipino character was also a big plus. Ligwayway, a 6yo Filipina girl, put a big smile on my face. Her little segment with the tinikling (folklore dance) and the teacher house call scene where Dennis can understand and speak a little bit of Tagalog (extra hottie points for him!!) left me with sweet memories of my homeland.
This book spoke to me, hence the highest rating. So if you’re a sentimental softie like me then this is a book for you too!
By the way, the name finally grew on me because the symbolism fit her but if my eReader had the capability to exchange words, I would have used it. ;)
Jinky is Reading
October 20, 2012
Now usually, I would put the rating of the book at the beginning. But this time, I'll try to put my opinion in words first, because the book confuses me, greatly, and I hope that I can come to terms with it all by writing a review.
Our heroine, Treasure Blume is an unusual woman. You see, she has a gift (or a curse, depends how you look at it) - everybody feels an instant dislike for her the moment they see her (now I can't get how it can be a gift, but whatever). That makes her life extremely hard, and not only in the romantic sense. Try finding a job, when every person that interviews you for a position hates you. But, she finally found someone desperate enough to actually hire her. And being a teacher is what she wants to do, so more the joy to her.
But things don't start well. Not only do all the other teachers dislike her, but there's also the autocratic secretary that pretty much runs the school who really dislikes her. Not to mention, there's all the kids and, of course, their parents. One of them is Dennis Cameron, the lunch lady.
Dennis has problems of his own. He's a single parent living his mother who is dying of cancer. Not to mention that he went from a sous chef in a four star restaurant to a lunch lady in not so great part of town. He wants nothing to do with his daughter's teacher, but as the time goes by he starts to learn things about Treasure, things that makes him like her.
Now, the harder part - my opinion. After reading the first chapter I was thrilled, it was purely amazing and it hooked me. But, after that things got weird. Really, really weird. The characters, the writing - everything. While the book did hold my interest, it wasn't easy for me to read it. There were moments were I was so irritated by everything I wanted to simply DNF it. But then, something happened, and I was hooked again.
The characters are interesting, not only Treasure and Dennis, but Treasure's grandmother, Dennis' daughter and plethora of other people that make their lives. They all had their moments of pure awesomeness, but then there were moments where I was all "What the hell was that?".
At the end, there is one thing I can say with certainty - the book didn't leave me unaffected. So, the final rating:
3 stars
Our heroine, Treasure Blume is an unusual woman. You see, she has a gift (or a curse, depends how you look at it) - everybody feels an instant dislike for her the moment they see her (now I can't get how it can be a gift, but whatever). That makes her life extremely hard, and not only in the romantic sense. Try finding a job, when every person that interviews you for a position hates you. But, she finally found someone desperate enough to actually hire her. And being a teacher is what she wants to do, so more the joy to her.
But things don't start well. Not only do all the other teachers dislike her, but there's also the autocratic secretary that pretty much runs the school who really dislikes her. Not to mention, there's all the kids and, of course, their parents. One of them is Dennis Cameron, the lunch lady.
Dennis has problems of his own. He's a single parent living his mother who is dying of cancer. Not to mention that he went from a sous chef in a four star restaurant to a lunch lady in not so great part of town. He wants nothing to do with his daughter's teacher, but as the time goes by he starts to learn things about Treasure, things that makes him like her.
Now, the harder part - my opinion. After reading the first chapter I was thrilled, it was purely amazing and it hooked me. But, after that things got weird. Really, really weird. The characters, the writing - everything. While the book did hold my interest, it wasn't easy for me to read it. There were moments were I was so irritated by everything I wanted to simply DNF it. But then, something happened, and I was hooked again.
The characters are interesting, not only Treasure and Dennis, but Treasure's grandmother, Dennis' daughter and plethora of other people that make their lives. They all had their moments of pure awesomeness, but then there were moments where I was all "What the hell was that?".
At the end, there is one thing I can say with certainty - the book didn't leave me unaffected. So, the final rating:
3 stars
October 19, 2012
This is the first book of 2012 that I have given 5 stars to! I'm not sure if it was just timing (I needed a good laugh!) or what but this book had all of my favorite elements--sweet romance, witty humor, uniquely colorful characters, and a huge dose of fun! And it also conveyed an important and timely message about looking past exteriors to find inner beauty.
Treasure is the most "unlikely" heroine you can imagine. She is awkward, old-fashioned, and completely clueless. But she is also compassionate, honest, and real. And this combination makes for such a sweet and funny story! Dennis sums her up best with this comparison:
"She's like spinach. It's like everyone hates her at first, even the idea of her. But once you try her--well, you realize how flavorful and versatile and good for you spinach is. And you're glad that everyone else doesn't like spinach, because then it would be sold out." --Dennis, p. 196
And Treasure wasn't the only unique character. Grammy Blume, Treasure's ancestors, Bonnie (the villain), the Steppers geriatric dance team, and even the kids in Treasure's first grade class added their own flavor and color to the story.
I just have to say a few words about Grammy Blume (I think she might have made the entire book for me!) I love unique characters and she was one of the most hilariously original characters I've ever "met"! (If I met her in person, I think I would be a little bit intimidated!) Between her crazy outfits, outrageous dialogue, and sassy attitude, I was laughing throughout the whole book!
If you need a good laugh coupled with a sweet story and fabulous characters, then you should definitely check out The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume!
Treasure is the most "unlikely" heroine you can imagine. She is awkward, old-fashioned, and completely clueless. But she is also compassionate, honest, and real. And this combination makes for such a sweet and funny story! Dennis sums her up best with this comparison:
"She's like spinach. It's like everyone hates her at first, even the idea of her. But once you try her--well, you realize how flavorful and versatile and good for you spinach is. And you're glad that everyone else doesn't like spinach, because then it would be sold out." --Dennis, p. 196
And Treasure wasn't the only unique character. Grammy Blume, Treasure's ancestors, Bonnie (the villain), the Steppers geriatric dance team, and even the kids in Treasure's first grade class added their own flavor and color to the story.
I just have to say a few words about Grammy Blume (I think she might have made the entire book for me!) I love unique characters and she was one of the most hilariously original characters I've ever "met"! (If I met her in person, I think I would be a little bit intimidated!) Between her crazy outfits, outrageous dialogue, and sassy attitude, I was laughing throughout the whole book!
If you need a good laugh coupled with a sweet story and fabulous characters, then you should definitely check out The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume!
January 16, 2013
I don't have words adequate to explain how much I enjoyed this book. Perhaps it was the perfect combination of true to life with such perfect lines as "I don't want you to be disgruntled I want you to be completely gruntled." and "you're patient like a mental patient". However you read it these characters capture those moments of pure genius that I often wish could blurt off the end of my tongue, like Treasure Blume. My favorite part was perhaps the insight to true love. After all what would you do if the person you loved was instantly hated by everyone you introduced him/her too? Would you choose your love of that person or your love of self (ego, position, appearance, status etc).
This is a must read for everyone.
This is a must read for everyone.
July 30, 2021
Ok I LOVE Treasure Blume. And her grandma. And Micaela. And Dennis. And Mr. Fong. And Varden. Seriously this book is so fun, and so quirky, and SO CUTE. And so funny! Like that part when Treasure just shows up to Mr. Fong's house bawling and can't even talk because she's crying so hard and so she has to write him a note that just says "Good Morning Mr. Fong. May I scrub your toilet?" Ahhh I cried it was so funny. I love how loving Treasure is and how she doesn't give up on people. I love that the curse/gift didn't go away in the end, and that the people around her (ahem Dennis) just learned to love that part of her too. I love that her grandma had blue hair. Love love love love love.
Now I just have to say two things about this book that were the only things that I didn't love. (1) I didn't love that the curse/gift came from a Native American man. That's enforcing harmful stereotypes. (2) I didn't love how women were described. Sometimes they were described as "fake" because of plastic surgery (Patience), and sometimes their weight was commented on (store clerk), and the way that Dennis talked about his ex-wife wasn't great. And when Dennis was concerned about his daughter dancing in "skimpy" dance uniforms.... she's six. Maybe we should stop sexualizing six year olds? So that bumped the book down a star for me. BUT seriously most of it was so, so, so fun and good!! Would recommend :)
Now I just have to say two things about this book that were the only things that I didn't love. (1) I didn't love that the curse/gift came from a Native American man. That's enforcing harmful stereotypes. (2) I didn't love how women were described. Sometimes they were described as "fake" because of plastic surgery (Patience), and sometimes their weight was commented on (store clerk), and the way that Dennis talked about his ex-wife wasn't great. And when Dennis was concerned about his daughter dancing in "skimpy" dance uniforms.... she's six. Maybe we should stop sexualizing six year olds? So that bumped the book down a star for me. BUT seriously most of it was so, so, so fun and good!! Would recommend :)
October 24, 2012
This is another one of those wonderful books that I can recommend to everyone. This is a clean romance filled with humor and fantastic characters. It was thoroughly delightful in every way, and the only way it could be improved upon is to have a sequel published!
Treasure Blume was fantastic. I had no idea when I began the book that was her name. And, believe it or not, I connected with her on so many levels. I can totally relate to not being liked by people--that is the story of my life. I am just too different, and people don't know what to do with me. I love Treasure's choice in movies--musicals! And even though I have been married and kind of dated two other guys, men do not normally like me. Many of my family have even rejected me. The question plaguing me is where is my Dennis?
The fact that Treasure is a schoolteacher also resonated with me. I know how it feels to buck the school system as well, and it's always tough to be the teacher that is not well-liked. I hope that if I ever get a chance to be a full-time teacher again that I can be the kind of teacher Treasure is. And it is a good reminder that even when everyone is against you, great things can happen.
My favorite things about the book was the author's sense of humor. I have mentioned before that in so many books I read, humor seems to be a thing of the past. How refreshing to read a book that actually makes me laugh out loud. And the romance is fun and funny without being sappy. Oh, and by the way, no sex scenes nor profanity. It is completely clean!
So if you are looking for a nice, light read with romance and humor (and a crazy old lady that is absolutely lovable!), I invited you to check out this book.
Treasure Blume was fantastic. I had no idea when I began the book that was her name. And, believe it or not, I connected with her on so many levels. I can totally relate to not being liked by people--that is the story of my life. I am just too different, and people don't know what to do with me. I love Treasure's choice in movies--musicals! And even though I have been married and kind of dated two other guys, men do not normally like me. Many of my family have even rejected me. The question plaguing me is where is my Dennis?
The fact that Treasure is a schoolteacher also resonated with me. I know how it feels to buck the school system as well, and it's always tough to be the teacher that is not well-liked. I hope that if I ever get a chance to be a full-time teacher again that I can be the kind of teacher Treasure is. And it is a good reminder that even when everyone is against you, great things can happen.
My favorite things about the book was the author's sense of humor. I have mentioned before that in so many books I read, humor seems to be a thing of the past. How refreshing to read a book that actually makes me laugh out loud. And the romance is fun and funny without being sappy. Oh, and by the way, no sex scenes nor profanity. It is completely clean!
So if you are looking for a nice, light read with romance and humor (and a crazy old lady that is absolutely lovable!), I invited you to check out this book.
November 12, 2012
Treasure Blume, to be published tomorrow by Cedar Fort, is the kind of book I'd buy for my mom or my sister, or really for anyone who I think could lose themselves in Harris's story, which is sweet without being saccharine, uplifting without preaching, and just downright funny. Treasure is a first-year elementary school teacher living in Las Vegas who has the curse (or the gift?) of rubbing all adults the wrong way when she meets them-- maybe it's the embroidered sweater sets, the polyester, or the poodle perm, or maybe it's something that goes deeper. It's no accident that it took her 44 interviews to land a job and was finally hired by a truly desperate principal.
Because Treasure has been aware of her effect on people ever since her Granny Blume pointed it out to her when she was a teenager, she's spent the last decade making up for it, finding ways around it, and never using it as an excuse, which is what Granny, cursed with the same family "gift," did for most of her life. Little kids and old people have no problem with Treasure's quirks, and if her peers spend their time getting to know her, they learn to appreciate her too. So when Dennis Cameron, Mr. Lunch Lady at Treasure's school and the father of one of her students, enters the picture, it's not too much of a surprise what will happen. I appreciate that Harris complicates her characters and makes them feel three- dimensional, but not at the expense of keeping the story fun and light. I read the book in one sitting yesterday afternoon, and with the snow falling outside and the story to keep me entertained, it was a perfect day.
Because Treasure has been aware of her effect on people ever since her Granny Blume pointed it out to her when she was a teenager, she's spent the last decade making up for it, finding ways around it, and never using it as an excuse, which is what Granny, cursed with the same family "gift," did for most of her life. Little kids and old people have no problem with Treasure's quirks, and if her peers spend their time getting to know her, they learn to appreciate her too. So when Dennis Cameron, Mr. Lunch Lady at Treasure's school and the father of one of her students, enters the picture, it's not too much of a surprise what will happen. I appreciate that Harris complicates her characters and makes them feel three- dimensional, but not at the expense of keeping the story fun and light. I read the book in one sitting yesterday afternoon, and with the snow falling outside and the story to keep me entertained, it was a perfect day.
January 9, 2013
OK. I freely admit that I read this book because my brother's daughter wrote it. It does not fit my current genre of choice, which is classical fantasy or science fiction. But, once I started reading I found plenty of touch points to keep me engaged.
Treasure Blume is a lovely young woman who hides her plentiful charms in an unusual package of nontraditional clothes, companions, and activities. Despite her quirks, I found myself cheering for her and celebrating every small victory she enjoyed in her search for independence, hope, and love. Maybe I liked her most because I could see some of myself in her struggles. Her angst is not just the angst of a somewhat socially awkward young woman, but of a growing person. I don't expect my story to turn out like hers, but it gives me hope and joy.
The circle of family, friends, and not-so-friendly others are all more than two-dimensional cutouts. The author takes the time and care to give them human dimensions, complete with the good, the bad, and the ugly (although not too much of the bad and ugly--this is primarily a young woman's book, I think). I really enjoyed the small surprises of dancing cowboys, spicy grannies and Idaho truck-driving heroes (what Idaho boy would not admire that?).
The magic in this book does not attempt to rival Harry Potter or the host of other wannabees, but it is the kind of magic which pervades the world. We all have some kind of magic which helps define us, with gifts large and small. I think this book may help many young women find the magic in their own lives.
Treasure Blume is a lovely young woman who hides her plentiful charms in an unusual package of nontraditional clothes, companions, and activities. Despite her quirks, I found myself cheering for her and celebrating every small victory she enjoyed in her search for independence, hope, and love. Maybe I liked her most because I could see some of myself in her struggles. Her angst is not just the angst of a somewhat socially awkward young woman, but of a growing person. I don't expect my story to turn out like hers, but it gives me hope and joy.
The circle of family, friends, and not-so-friendly others are all more than two-dimensional cutouts. The author takes the time and care to give them human dimensions, complete with the good, the bad, and the ugly (although not too much of the bad and ugly--this is primarily a young woman's book, I think). I really enjoyed the small surprises of dancing cowboys, spicy grannies and Idaho truck-driving heroes (what Idaho boy would not admire that?).
The magic in this book does not attempt to rival Harry Potter or the host of other wannabees, but it is the kind of magic which pervades the world. We all have some kind of magic which helps define us, with gifts large and small. I think this book may help many young women find the magic in their own lives.
April 20, 2013
Treasure Blume was named appropriately, she is a treasure. Some would find her a treasure in the rough because she doesn't make a good first impression. In fact, many people take an intense dislike to her at first glance. She has lived with this condition all of her life, it is her family legacy. She has inherited the family "gift".
Once people get over their first impression, they discover that she has a kind heart and a lot of love to give. Not everyone would devote their time to children and old ladies, but that is where Treasure is in her element.
Love has never been a strong suit for her. In fact, the story begins with a blind date. I was glad for her that she makes a bad impression to begin with, because the date was a complete loser. It is pretty fun though. It sets the setting for the rest of the book.
Her romance with the male "lunch lady" is wonderful. I enjoyed their unique dynamic and the love and devotion that they have to their family and friends. Her increased confidence makes for a physical transformation that was great to read about.
This is a clean and fun read.
Once people get over their first impression, they discover that she has a kind heart and a lot of love to give. Not everyone would devote their time to children and old ladies, but that is where Treasure is in her element.
Love has never been a strong suit for her. In fact, the story begins with a blind date. I was glad for her that she makes a bad impression to begin with, because the date was a complete loser. It is pretty fun though. It sets the setting for the rest of the book.
Her romance with the male "lunch lady" is wonderful. I enjoyed their unique dynamic and the love and devotion that they have to their family and friends. Her increased confidence makes for a physical transformation that was great to read about.
This is a clean and fun read.
October 17, 2012
This was a very enjoyable story that had me laughing from the get-go. Treasure's blind date experience was hilarious. It was also a bit sad, but it was a great introduction to our main character.
Treasure repels the bulk of society, but gets along really well with young children and senior citizens. She loves to wear sweater sets and polyester, watch old musicals, and loves her crazy, balding cat.
Even with all of her quirks, she is totally loveable-readers are immune to her "curse". I admired her ability to let others' disdain roll off her back, and her willingness to reach out to those in need (be it a student or an elderly neighbor).
This is a fun read with a clean romance, not to mention that it has a great message about finding the treasures around us (because they are there if we just make the effort to look).
*See my Blog Tour post on Literary Time Out on 10/18/12.
Treasure repels the bulk of society, but gets along really well with young children and senior citizens. She loves to wear sweater sets and polyester, watch old musicals, and loves her crazy, balding cat.
Even with all of her quirks, she is totally loveable-readers are immune to her "curse". I admired her ability to let others' disdain roll off her back, and her willingness to reach out to those in need (be it a student or an elderly neighbor).
This is a fun read with a clean romance, not to mention that it has a great message about finding the treasures around us (because they are there if we just make the effort to look).
*See my Blog Tour post on Literary Time Out on 10/18/12.
October 17, 2015
I feel like Lisa Harris writes art. I mean... I know all writing is art in its own way, but the way she uses words is like its own special art form. I see it in everything I've read of hers. I actually read an unpublished work of hers before ever reading her debut novel and her writing is just as artful as ever. There's something about this story that just feels important. It was so deep and meaningful without being that presumptuous guy at a party that tells everyone how deep and meaningful he is. I really wasn't expecting what I got out of this book. I was expecting a fun read (which it was) but I'd find myself reading something about tater tots or elementary school classes and suddenly BAM I'd get sidelined by something beautiful and profound. And it just kept happening over and over. I don't know how this book kept surprising me, but it did. And it was beautiful.
March 15, 2013
The good points first: well written, characters were done well, sweet romance.
Points that drove me nuts: This is one of those books that is just so sticky cutesy sweet that it actually did not work for me. For example: Treasure and Patients are the names of the sisters.... really. Then there is a knock on Treasure's door, it takes her a while to see if she even wants to go open the door for her blind date. Well she opens the door and the idiot keeps knocking on her head instead of the door....really. So if that isn't enough Treasure who is of college age spends every/most Friday nights helping her grandmother and her friends go from one square dancing gig to the next....really. It just doesn't jive, to unrealistic for my taste.
Points that drove me nuts: This is one of those books that is just so sticky cutesy sweet that it actually did not work for me. For example: Treasure and Patients are the names of the sisters.... really. Then there is a knock on Treasure's door, it takes her a while to see if she even wants to go open the door for her blind date. Well she opens the door and the idiot keeps knocking on her head instead of the door....really. So if that isn't enough Treasure who is of college age spends every/most Friday nights helping her grandmother and her friends go from one square dancing gig to the next....really. It just doesn't jive, to unrealistic for my taste.
December 16, 2012
Treasure Blume is like her name—a rare find, with a delightful ability to allow herself to be in spite of others’ opinions. Anyone who has ever felt unwanted, unliked, or socially awkward will find real comfort in reading about this strong woman who triumphs in spite of heartache. This book is about moving through trial and not allowing others to make you feel small. I highly recommend it to anybody who enjoys upbeat women’s fiction.
November 8, 2012
Have you ever read a book where you enjoyed it, and wanted to know what will happen, and couldn't put it down, yet there was something about it that kept bothering you? The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume was that book for me. While I liked it a lot, I also could not shake off that nagging feeling that something was off.
The gift/curse idea was interesting, but I felt like it could have been developed much more. Things like where this "gift" came from, why was Treasure's family chosen to get it, and what was the point of it in the first place? I also didn't feel like the "gift" was that much part of a story to begin with. It was brought up at the beginning, wasn't mentioned much throughout the middle and then brought up again at the end. Take away the "gift", and the story wouldn't even suffer that much.
The writing felt very abrupt. It's hard to describe for me since the only writing I ever do is either blogging or history papers, but it felt like there was no transitions between points of view, paragraphs or even sentences, and events. It almost felt like the author wanted to cram as many events as possible in one book, but didn't spend much time developing those events. Something happened, this something got resolved, and the action moved on to the next something. Many things happened, yes, but I would have preferred to have fewer well written plot points.
While reading The Unlikely Gift, I was constantly getting frustrated by the way women were portrayed or described (emphasis is mine):
"She was beautiful, like an Italian race car, trim and chrome, built for two. And Dennis could appreciate that beauty,. But it made him nervous. And after talking to her for five minutes, he was sure he didn't want to drive her. He knew the cost of maintenance and upkeep too well." (See what I mean about how abrupt it feels? The whole book is written this way).
"The girl turned around and flipped her limp dishwasher hair behind her ear."
"One clerk, a size twelve in a size six outfit, shot grammy a "what planet are you from?" look as she walked back with an armful of rejects from the dressing rooms."
""Although I doubt that you weigh what you have listed here," he said, smirking at her."
These are just some of the examples I highlighted from the book, but there were more. A woman is compared to a car, a woman is insulted about her looks, a woman is (harshly) judged on her appearance. Was that really necessary? In our current culture women bodies are already treated like something that everyone has the right to comment or have an opinion on. Those quotes were just observations of other characters, and nothing was said to these women, but the fact that things like that were even thought of shows the problem. Women are constantly evaluated on their looks, then commented on it, and finally put down because they didn't live up to the standard of beauty. This could be my personal pet peeve, but comparing a woman to a car is double insulting since it's implies that she can be owned and can't take care of herself on her own.
I also didn't like that Dennis's job was constantly referred to as the "lunch lady", while making it clear at the same time that the job was inferior. For one thing, I should not state the obvious that Dennis is a man and could not be a lady. Isn't there an actual title to that job? Having negative connotations attached to the word "lunch lady" only reinforcing the notion that being a "lunch lady" is bad, inferior and in Dennis's instance, almost a joke.
I still wonder and want to know why all the women were named Treasure, Patience, Thankful and Experience, when all the guys got normal names. I wish it would have been explained even a little, since I can't imagine it being easy living with those names.
The characters were pretty good, but some of them felt pretty two dimensional. Howls and Grammy were my favorite. Dennis annoyed me more than anything with his trying to cook gourmet food for little kids. Treasure was better, but now that I've finished the book I can't think of anything special about her. Patience was just there and then she was gone. Randy has a great taste in clothes, so he was cool. Bonnie started to become human towards the end, but not nearly enough to give her any depth.
The climax was very anti-climatic after everything else that's happened. Since the rest of the conflicts, problems and misunderstanding got resolved almost immediately, there wasn't much tension or even wondering if everything will work out.
Overall, this wasn't a bad book. Yes, I have many things to say about it, but I still enjoyed The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume. I think if you're not as picky about the issues that I talked about, you will definitely enjoy the book.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Cedar Fort via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
The gift/curse idea was interesting, but I felt like it could have been developed much more. Things like where this "gift" came from, why was Treasure's family chosen to get it, and what was the point of it in the first place? I also didn't feel like the "gift" was that much part of a story to begin with. It was brought up at the beginning, wasn't mentioned much throughout the middle and then brought up again at the end. Take away the "gift", and the story wouldn't even suffer that much.
The writing felt very abrupt. It's hard to describe for me since the only writing I ever do is either blogging or history papers, but it felt like there was no transitions between points of view, paragraphs or even sentences, and events. It almost felt like the author wanted to cram as many events as possible in one book, but didn't spend much time developing those events. Something happened, this something got resolved, and the action moved on to the next something. Many things happened, yes, but I would have preferred to have fewer well written plot points.
While reading The Unlikely Gift, I was constantly getting frustrated by the way women were portrayed or described (emphasis is mine):
"She was beautiful, like an Italian race car, trim and chrome, built for two. And Dennis could appreciate that beauty,. But it made him nervous. And after talking to her for five minutes, he was sure he didn't want to drive her. He knew the cost of maintenance and upkeep too well." (See what I mean about how abrupt it feels? The whole book is written this way).
"The girl turned around and flipped her limp dishwasher hair behind her ear."
"One clerk, a size twelve in a size six outfit, shot grammy a "what planet are you from?" look as she walked back with an armful of rejects from the dressing rooms."
""Although I doubt that you weigh what you have listed here," he said, smirking at her."
These are just some of the examples I highlighted from the book, but there were more. A woman is compared to a car, a woman is insulted about her looks, a woman is (harshly) judged on her appearance. Was that really necessary? In our current culture women bodies are already treated like something that everyone has the right to comment or have an opinion on. Those quotes were just observations of other characters, and nothing was said to these women, but the fact that things like that were even thought of shows the problem. Women are constantly evaluated on their looks, then commented on it, and finally put down because they didn't live up to the standard of beauty. This could be my personal pet peeve, but comparing a woman to a car is double insulting since it's implies that she can be owned and can't take care of herself on her own.
I also didn't like that Dennis's job was constantly referred to as the "lunch lady", while making it clear at the same time that the job was inferior. For one thing, I should not state the obvious that Dennis is a man and could not be a lady. Isn't there an actual title to that job? Having negative connotations attached to the word "lunch lady" only reinforcing the notion that being a "lunch lady" is bad, inferior and in Dennis's instance, almost a joke.
I still wonder and want to know why all the women were named Treasure, Patience, Thankful and Experience, when all the guys got normal names. I wish it would have been explained even a little, since I can't imagine it being easy living with those names.
The characters were pretty good, but some of them felt pretty two dimensional. Howls and Grammy were my favorite. Dennis annoyed me more than anything with his trying to cook gourmet food for little kids. Treasure was better, but now that I've finished the book I can't think of anything special about her. Patience was just there and then she was gone. Randy has a great taste in clothes, so he was cool. Bonnie started to become human towards the end, but not nearly enough to give her any depth.
The climax was very anti-climatic after everything else that's happened. Since the rest of the conflicts, problems and misunderstanding got resolved almost immediately, there wasn't much tension or even wondering if everything will work out.
Overall, this wasn't a bad book. Yes, I have many things to say about it, but I still enjoyed The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume. I think if you're not as picky about the issues that I talked about, you will definitely enjoy the book.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided to me by Cedar Fort via NetGalley. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
November 12, 2012
Originally posted @ Gone Pecan
Treasure Blume has a gift. At least, that’s how her grandmother explains it. It’s been passed down through generations and it works slightly differently for each family member so, ahem, blessed. Treasure’s particular brand of the gift makes people, those older than puberty and younger than retirement age, take an immediate dislike to her upon meeting her, or even being in her vicinity, and they have no idea why. It only fades away if they take the time and inclination to get to know her past her initial bad first impression.
At age 24, Treasure is a new teacher, having barely gotten the job despite her sterling credentials and recommendations (she had to be interviewed, didn’t she?) because the Las Vegas school was desperate. She’s never had a romantic life, obviously, and her best friends are her grandmother’s geriatric dance team, whom Treasure has emulated in dress (polyester and sweaters with animals on them are her default mode of dress).
The good thing is that her students love her, the way 6 year olds can. She’s a great teacher and goes out of her way to connect with her students and their parents, makes learning fun and is sensitive to their various issues.
She has figured out a way to live with her gift, even if it means limiting herself to a small group of family and friends, most of whom are over 60 years old. We meet Treasure’s father (the only issue I had with the book, the way he talked seemed unnatural and might have caused me to stop reading, but he was the only one afflicted, so I assumed it was a character trait), her mother, brother, sister and Grammy. With the exception of her sister, who had hit puberty by the time Treasure happened along, they all look out for her in the big bad world and try to cushion the blows to her ego and self-esteem being that around strangers inspire.
Not that Treasure is the shy and retiring type, although she’s had plenty enough reason to be wary around new people (or even bitchy). She’s outspoken and tough and doesn’t cower, even when faced with outright hostility. She’s simply grown used to it.
Then we meet Dennis. Dennis has taken a job as a lunch lady in his daughter’s school and Micaela’s just happens to be in Ms. Blume’s class. Dennis is a single father who gave up his rising career as a chef when his mother was diagnosed with cancer and Micaela’s mother (a showgirl) wanted nothing to do with her daughter after the novelty had of a newborn worn off. Dennis over compensates and is a little over protective, but he’s a really good dad. Initially, he thinks that Treasure is insensitive to his little girls needs, but changes his mind when he sees that Treasure is a very thoughtful teacher. He even agrees to let Micaela take dance lessons with Grammy despite his aversion to dancing because of his ex-wife’s profession.
From there, Dennis comes to know Treasure. He begins to see past his first impression and they begin dating. What follows is a relatively young woman coming out of her shell, the new people around her warming to her and Treasure making friends with people who aren’t her family and she hasn’t known since she was six. Dennis knows about the gift and hasn’t had to live with it his whole life, but takes it upon himself to “save” Treasure from outsiders who don’t know her but despise her anyway. And that is what causes the conflict between them, because she doesn’t need or want a savior and, even though this is her first relationship and it’s unlikely that she’ll ever find someone else who sees past their initial dislike of her, and despite the fact that she’s fallen hard for this man, Treasure doesn’t want Dennis to protect her from the world.
I sometimes find it hard to get into a book by an author I’ve never read or heard of before, but for some reason, I keep requesting them from Netgalley. I requested this book because of the title and the cover and I thought it would be interesting (the blurb doesn’t give a lot away). I did not expect to like it so very much. Treasure is a person who does not apologize for her eccentricities and peculiarities. Granted, it didn’t matter what she dressed like or acted, people aren’t going to like her anyway, so she disregards everyone’s opinion of her. The way she stands up for herself and those who cannot really made me love her. She is at once vulnerable and strong, the best kind of heroine.
The other characters in this book, particularly Grammy, added so much to the story. It was funny and sad and really made me think about how we treat others and people’s perceptions, but it was still a light-hearted, sweet, story. The legend behind the gift was interesting and seemed plausible. We’ve all encountered someone who just rubbed us the wrong way or maybe we’ve felt unlovable ourselves. It was a unique story about a unique girl and I am very glad I was able to read this book.
Pecans: 4.5/5
Treasure Blume has a gift. At least, that’s how her grandmother explains it. It’s been passed down through generations and it works slightly differently for each family member so, ahem, blessed. Treasure’s particular brand of the gift makes people, those older than puberty and younger than retirement age, take an immediate dislike to her upon meeting her, or even being in her vicinity, and they have no idea why. It only fades away if they take the time and inclination to get to know her past her initial bad first impression.
At age 24, Treasure is a new teacher, having barely gotten the job despite her sterling credentials and recommendations (she had to be interviewed, didn’t she?) because the Las Vegas school was desperate. She’s never had a romantic life, obviously, and her best friends are her grandmother’s geriatric dance team, whom Treasure has emulated in dress (polyester and sweaters with animals on them are her default mode of dress).
The good thing is that her students love her, the way 6 year olds can. She’s a great teacher and goes out of her way to connect with her students and their parents, makes learning fun and is sensitive to their various issues.
She has figured out a way to live with her gift, even if it means limiting herself to a small group of family and friends, most of whom are over 60 years old. We meet Treasure’s father (the only issue I had with the book, the way he talked seemed unnatural and might have caused me to stop reading, but he was the only one afflicted, so I assumed it was a character trait), her mother, brother, sister and Grammy. With the exception of her sister, who had hit puberty by the time Treasure happened along, they all look out for her in the big bad world and try to cushion the blows to her ego and self-esteem being that around strangers inspire.
Not that Treasure is the shy and retiring type, although she’s had plenty enough reason to be wary around new people (or even bitchy). She’s outspoken and tough and doesn’t cower, even when faced with outright hostility. She’s simply grown used to it.
Then we meet Dennis. Dennis has taken a job as a lunch lady in his daughter’s school and Micaela’s just happens to be in Ms. Blume’s class. Dennis is a single father who gave up his rising career as a chef when his mother was diagnosed with cancer and Micaela’s mother (a showgirl) wanted nothing to do with her daughter after the novelty had of a newborn worn off. Dennis over compensates and is a little over protective, but he’s a really good dad. Initially, he thinks that Treasure is insensitive to his little girls needs, but changes his mind when he sees that Treasure is a very thoughtful teacher. He even agrees to let Micaela take dance lessons with Grammy despite his aversion to dancing because of his ex-wife’s profession.
From there, Dennis comes to know Treasure. He begins to see past his first impression and they begin dating. What follows is a relatively young woman coming out of her shell, the new people around her warming to her and Treasure making friends with people who aren’t her family and she hasn’t known since she was six. Dennis knows about the gift and hasn’t had to live with it his whole life, but takes it upon himself to “save” Treasure from outsiders who don’t know her but despise her anyway. And that is what causes the conflict between them, because she doesn’t need or want a savior and, even though this is her first relationship and it’s unlikely that she’ll ever find someone else who sees past their initial dislike of her, and despite the fact that she’s fallen hard for this man, Treasure doesn’t want Dennis to protect her from the world.
I sometimes find it hard to get into a book by an author I’ve never read or heard of before, but for some reason, I keep requesting them from Netgalley. I requested this book because of the title and the cover and I thought it would be interesting (the blurb doesn’t give a lot away). I did not expect to like it so very much. Treasure is a person who does not apologize for her eccentricities and peculiarities. Granted, it didn’t matter what she dressed like or acted, people aren’t going to like her anyway, so she disregards everyone’s opinion of her. The way she stands up for herself and those who cannot really made me love her. She is at once vulnerable and strong, the best kind of heroine.
The other characters in this book, particularly Grammy, added so much to the story. It was funny and sad and really made me think about how we treat others and people’s perceptions, but it was still a light-hearted, sweet, story. The legend behind the gift was interesting and seemed plausible. We’ve all encountered someone who just rubbed us the wrong way or maybe we’ve felt unlovable ourselves. It was a unique story about a unique girl and I am very glad I was able to read this book.
Pecans: 4.5/5
November 12, 2012
At First Sight: As the current carrier of a gift that most often than not feels like a curse, Treasure Blume has always assumed that love was not in her future. Not when she had more than enough trouble getting a job, buying a car and generally making it through a day without people being outrageously rude to her.
It's not her fault though, Treasure is a genuinely nice and caring person, but her "gift" makes it so that almost everyone takes a violent dislike to her as soon as they meet her - with the exception of really young children or the elderly - a dislike they could overcome, if they wanted to, but very few do.
So, Treasure has lead a rather unorthodox life, with the support of her older brother, her best friend Roxy, her parents and Grammy Blume, learning to put up with unfair treatment and unnecessary rudeness, hiding behind her crazy hair, awful sweater sets, polyester clothes and her job as a First Grade teacher.
Love was not really something she was looking for or hoped to find until she met Dennis Cameron, the father of one of the little girls in her class.
Trained as a chef, Dennis once had a very bright future in front of him as sous chef at a 4 star-restaurant in Las Vegas, but that was before he divorced and got full custody of his daughter Micaela, before his mother was diagnosed with cancer, before he slid down the kitchen totem pole and accepted a job as a Lunch Lady at Micaela's elementary school so he could be near her and have enough free time to care for her and his mom.
Dennis is frustrated with his life, with his ex-wife and with his job serving crappy food to kids who don't care what they put in their mouths. He doesn't need to be dealing with his daughter's crazy teacher, but he's intrigued by how much Micaela loves her kooky teacher even if him and Treasure didn't get off on the right foot.
Second Glance: The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume its a hard book to summarize but it surprised me with how much I liked it. It starts fairly slow and it never really picks up speed, it's more of a slow-and-steady kind of read and I admit I almost DNFed by the second chapter because of the pace, but all too soon I found myself immersed in the narrative.
Treasure is a very nice person, and she cares for her students and her family and it's always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty for them, and it's awful to see how badly she's treated by almost everyone she meets. Still, most days she tries to look on the bright side of things, counting her blessings. She's not overly bitter or mean because of her situation, she just takes it as is, hoping people will eventually grow to like her but not taking it personally when they don't.
Dennis was a good guy too - though he complained a lot more than Treasure, and was a bit jerky from time to time. His frustration with the turns his life took was very real, and I could feel for him because despite how unhappy he was about some things, he would do everything all over again just to be there for his daughter and his mom.
He is trying to find ways of copping with his new life when he finds Treasure, and slow as the process is, they do develop a friendship and an attraction and it was nice to see that, even though it all was very PG.
There are a lot of secondary characters and plots, some which I liked better than others - I really liked Randy, Treasure's brother and the little subplots about Treasure's students - but over all, I think it all added up to the story, even if the book did indulge in one of my personal pet peeves: chapters that go on forever.
Bottom Line: The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is one of those books that you need to be in the mood for, the pace is slow, the chapters are long and sometimes its too quirky, but if you surrender yourself to the process and just sit back and let yourself be lost in the story, then you're in for lovely experience.
Favorite Quote: "Gracious, girl, don't go looking for truth among your peers. They are just as stupid as you are." - Grammy
It's not her fault though, Treasure is a genuinely nice and caring person, but her "gift" makes it so that almost everyone takes a violent dislike to her as soon as they meet her - with the exception of really young children or the elderly - a dislike they could overcome, if they wanted to, but very few do.
So, Treasure has lead a rather unorthodox life, with the support of her older brother, her best friend Roxy, her parents and Grammy Blume, learning to put up with unfair treatment and unnecessary rudeness, hiding behind her crazy hair, awful sweater sets, polyester clothes and her job as a First Grade teacher.
Love was not really something she was looking for or hoped to find until she met Dennis Cameron, the father of one of the little girls in her class.
Trained as a chef, Dennis once had a very bright future in front of him as sous chef at a 4 star-restaurant in Las Vegas, but that was before he divorced and got full custody of his daughter Micaela, before his mother was diagnosed with cancer, before he slid down the kitchen totem pole and accepted a job as a Lunch Lady at Micaela's elementary school so he could be near her and have enough free time to care for her and his mom.
Dennis is frustrated with his life, with his ex-wife and with his job serving crappy food to kids who don't care what they put in their mouths. He doesn't need to be dealing with his daughter's crazy teacher, but he's intrigued by how much Micaela loves her kooky teacher even if him and Treasure didn't get off on the right foot.
Second Glance: The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume its a hard book to summarize but it surprised me with how much I liked it. It starts fairly slow and it never really picks up speed, it's more of a slow-and-steady kind of read and I admit I almost DNFed by the second chapter because of the pace, but all too soon I found myself immersed in the narrative.
Treasure is a very nice person, and she cares for her students and her family and it's always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty for them, and it's awful to see how badly she's treated by almost everyone she meets. Still, most days she tries to look on the bright side of things, counting her blessings. She's not overly bitter or mean because of her situation, she just takes it as is, hoping people will eventually grow to like her but not taking it personally when they don't.
Dennis was a good guy too - though he complained a lot more than Treasure, and was a bit jerky from time to time. His frustration with the turns his life took was very real, and I could feel for him because despite how unhappy he was about some things, he would do everything all over again just to be there for his daughter and his mom.
He is trying to find ways of copping with his new life when he finds Treasure, and slow as the process is, they do develop a friendship and an attraction and it was nice to see that, even though it all was very PG.
There are a lot of secondary characters and plots, some which I liked better than others - I really liked Randy, Treasure's brother and the little subplots about Treasure's students - but over all, I think it all added up to the story, even if the book did indulge in one of my personal pet peeves: chapters that go on forever.
Bottom Line: The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is one of those books that you need to be in the mood for, the pace is slow, the chapters are long and sometimes its too quirky, but if you surrender yourself to the process and just sit back and let yourself be lost in the story, then you're in for lovely experience.
Favorite Quote: "Gracious, girl, don't go looking for truth among your peers. They are just as stupid as you are." - Grammy
April 24, 2013
Treasure Blume is a bit awkward and doesn't leave a good first impression on people (part of her gift/curse). The book starts with a horrible blind date. The blind date didn't end up happening and after he left, she promptly took off her embroidered Noah's Ark sweater and got comfy in her sweats while she called her best friend, Roxy, to rehash her evening and get a fresh perspective on life.
Treasure is a first-grade teacher who cares about her students and wants the best for them. She comes up with some great ideas to help each of them feel included and shows compassion in several different ways. I liked the way she handled some tough situations that came up. She's not perfect but has the best interests of others at heart and that comes through.
Then there's Grammy Blume, who is every bit as quirky as Treasure. When Treasure was young, Grammy was a scary old lady and when she was 12, her father left her alone with Grammy for the first time. Treasure opened up to her about a humiliating experience that happened in school. Grammy took action and she and Treasure have been close ever since. She told Treasure about her gift/curse which helps Treasure cope with the way she's treated by others.
Grammy is also part of Ruby's Red Hot Chili Steppers, a semi-elite dance team composed of mature women over 65 years old. Treasure is their gopher, whose duties include handing out water bottles, cueing music and filling in wherever she's needed. This group is awesome! I loved reading their interactions with each other; they made me laugh several times. Grammy Blume is a colorful, fun character who tells Treasure things she needs to hear. It's always good to have someone like that in your life because sometimes it's hard to see your own good qualities and it's always nice to have someone point them out to you.
There are lots of other fun characters and I laughed quite a bit. The romance was gradual and realistic. When she first met Dennis, it was definitely not love at first sight. Their first interactions with each other didn't go well. When their feelings shifted, it was still a rocky road and I rooted for them to find a way to make their relationship work. This book started out slow for me and then it started to pick up and was hard to put down as I wanted to see what would happen with Treasure. There's a great message in this book and it's definitely worth reading!
Treasure is a first-grade teacher who cares about her students and wants the best for them. She comes up with some great ideas to help each of them feel included and shows compassion in several different ways. I liked the way she handled some tough situations that came up. She's not perfect but has the best interests of others at heart and that comes through.
Then there's Grammy Blume, who is every bit as quirky as Treasure. When Treasure was young, Grammy was a scary old lady and when she was 12, her father left her alone with Grammy for the first time. Treasure opened up to her about a humiliating experience that happened in school. Grammy took action and she and Treasure have been close ever since. She told Treasure about her gift/curse which helps Treasure cope with the way she's treated by others.
Grammy is also part of Ruby's Red Hot Chili Steppers, a semi-elite dance team composed of mature women over 65 years old. Treasure is their gopher, whose duties include handing out water bottles, cueing music and filling in wherever she's needed. This group is awesome! I loved reading their interactions with each other; they made me laugh several times. Grammy Blume is a colorful, fun character who tells Treasure things she needs to hear. It's always good to have someone like that in your life because sometimes it's hard to see your own good qualities and it's always nice to have someone point them out to you.
There are lots of other fun characters and I laughed quite a bit. The romance was gradual and realistic. When she first met Dennis, it was definitely not love at first sight. Their first interactions with each other didn't go well. When their feelings shifted, it was still a rocky road and I rooted for them to find a way to make their relationship work. This book started out slow for me and then it started to pick up and was hard to put down as I wanted to see what would happen with Treasure. There's a great message in this book and it's definitely worth reading!
April 24, 2013
Treasure Blume is a unique young lady. She does things her own way and enjoys it that way. One thing she doesn't enjoy is her family curse. Family lore shows that curses are passed down in different ways to the women in their family. Treasure's curse is that everyone hates her almost immediately. She is so off-putting that most people don't bother to get to know her. However kids seem immune to the curse, so Treasure is happy with her job as a teacher. Things start to change though with Treasure's new job. Life may never be the same for Treasure and everyone she meets as things begin to change for her.
This book was not at all what I was expecting. I thought I was getting a fairly typical love story, but instead I got a very interesting tale of a very strange young lady. I was afraid that Treasure's quirkiness might get a bit grating, but it never did. Treasure is just someone who lives life on her own terms and in her own way. I think some of the things she did were just a way to shield herself from the poor treatment she knew she would get from others. I particularly loved Treasure's grandma. She was a firecracker and someone I would always want on my team.
I really thought that the way Treasure's family "curse" was dealt with was really profound. So many times there are things in our lives that we see as curses, when in fact we can use them to our advantage. Treasure had to figure out how to make her curse work for her. In doing that, she was able to find people who could look past their initial reaction to her and see her for what she truly was. This becomes a turning point in Treasure's life. I thought that Treasure was a fun and interesting young lady. This book is a fun quick read that will just make you feel good about life.
Book provided for review.
November 12, 2012
Treasure Blume has a "gift," but it's kind of a strange one. This gift is that she "triggers fear and dislike in all she meets." This doesn't sound like much of a gift, but Treasure is able to use it to weed people out of her life that don't tell her the truth. It also makes her life kind of hard, from the moment Grammy Blume told Treasure and her dad about the gift, her parents have been protecting her from others. Including her mother making sure that she had a student teaching job, and even offering to get her a full time teaching job. But Treasure really wants to make it on her own, so she moves to Las Vegas, where anyone with a teaching certificate can get a job, gets a job at a school where there's no chance that anyone will ever like her, and begins living her life. There's plenty of bad blind dates, crazy sweaters, and polyester, but pretty soon Treasure learns to love her life in Las Vegas and all of the kids that don't necessarily come from the right side of the tracks. In the end she's able to make life better for the kids and take on a military style office secretary too!
This really was a fun book! I laughed out loud at some of the crazy situations Treasure's gift gets her into. There was a sweet, clean love story included in Treasure's story. But it's also a story about learning to love yourself and become the best that you can be without worrying about what others think of you.
This really was a fun book! I laughed out loud at some of the crazy situations Treasure's gift gets her into. There was a sweet, clean love story included in Treasure's story. But it's also a story about learning to love yourself and become the best that you can be without worrying about what others think of you.
October 20, 2012
3.5 stars
Treasure Blume has the coolest name. Treasure. Love that.
This book started out pretty slow for me. I spent the first third of the thinking that this was labeled incorrectly as a romance. When I finally got to the part where Dennis enters the picture, things started to pick up. By the end of the book I was smiling and rooting for Dennis and Treasure.
Treasure has this family curse that makes everyone instantly dislike her. Well, except for young children and old people. When you take that into account, that doesn't leave very good odds for a great romantic life. Poor Treasure. I think the word that comes to mind when I think of Treasure is tenacious. Second up would be compassionate. She is a great character. I sure am glad she found some help in the clothing department though.
This book has a whole cast of colorful characters from Grammy and her dancing team, to school teachers and of course Dennis and his daughter.
I loved when Grammy entered into a gift wrap competition. That is hilarious. I want to see one of those in real life some day. I think my mother in law should enter. She has spent years working in gift wrap and she does an amazing job wrapping.
All in all a good book. I enjoyed it. Squeeky clean and fun.
Treasure Blume has the coolest name. Treasure. Love that.
This book started out pretty slow for me. I spent the first third of the thinking that this was labeled incorrectly as a romance. When I finally got to the part where Dennis enters the picture, things started to pick up. By the end of the book I was smiling and rooting for Dennis and Treasure.
Treasure has this family curse that makes everyone instantly dislike her. Well, except for young children and old people. When you take that into account, that doesn't leave very good odds for a great romantic life. Poor Treasure. I think the word that comes to mind when I think of Treasure is tenacious. Second up would be compassionate. She is a great character. I sure am glad she found some help in the clothing department though.
This book has a whole cast of colorful characters from Grammy and her dancing team, to school teachers and of course Dennis and his daughter.
I loved when Grammy entered into a gift wrap competition. That is hilarious. I want to see one of those in real life some day. I think my mother in law should enter. She has spent years working in gift wrap and she does an amazing job wrapping.
All in all a good book. I enjoyed it. Squeeky clean and fun.
October 29, 2012
The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is a great story about the other side of the mean girls. Every teenage and tween girl needs to read this book.
Treasure Blume has a unique gift. People hate her. She says what comes to her mind, and people who meet her can't stand her. She believes it to be a curse, but is always told that its a gift. This inherited trait is said to be a blessing because the people who truly get to know her she can trust and rely on, and like her for who she is. Treasure grows up and has to learn to cope with life, finding a job, making friends, teaching her class, working with her students parents, all difficult tasks with Treasure's unique gift.
I love the way that the author tells the story. You are immediately drawn to Treasure before learning about all of her quirks. You are automatically cheering for the underdog when you cringe while reading that she wears granny sweaters and hello kitty hair clips.
Treasure has the best intentions at heart, and she is a real girl that you wish you could be best friends with.
Treasure Blume has a unique gift. People hate her. She says what comes to her mind, and people who meet her can't stand her. She believes it to be a curse, but is always told that its a gift. This inherited trait is said to be a blessing because the people who truly get to know her she can trust and rely on, and like her for who she is. Treasure grows up and has to learn to cope with life, finding a job, making friends, teaching her class, working with her students parents, all difficult tasks with Treasure's unique gift.
I love the way that the author tells the story. You are immediately drawn to Treasure before learning about all of her quirks. You are automatically cheering for the underdog when you cringe while reading that she wears granny sweaters and hello kitty hair clips.
Treasure has the best intentions at heart, and she is a real girl that you wish you could be best friends with.
Read
November 12, 2013I met Lisa Rumsey Harris at a book signing and picked up her book not long afterwards. The real tragedy is that I had never heard of her book. It's such a sweet and real story. I think we've all known people like Treasure Bloom who have the best of intentions but everything they do is taken the wrong way. I loved that the obstacles in the romance were real concerns (at least they would be under the circumstances) and that they were taken seriously. Each character was well-defined. It was witty and well-written. The slow pace of the story was a perfect backdrop in which to meet these characters and share their concerns.
Two beefs: I wanted Dennis and Treasure to meet a little earlier in the story. And I wanted more resolution at the end about how they handled all their individual issues.
This book would be ideal for anyone who's a sappy romantic. Like me.
Two beefs: I wanted Dennis and Treasure to meet a little earlier in the story. And I wanted more resolution at the end about how they handled all their individual issues.
This book would be ideal for anyone who's a sappy romantic. Like me.
October 27, 2012
This book had me laughing... and crying... and feeling...
Feeling the tenderness of a woman named Treasure as she just goes about trying to do what she thinks is right...and what she thinks will help at the time...
But somehow everyone she meets dislikes her...a curse...or a blessing?
Dennis is one who dislikes her...
He is working as a "lunch lady" to be close to his daughter...the daughter who is in Treasures' first grade classroom...
But as Dennis watches Treasure he comes to know the REAL her...the one who cares about other people more than she cares about what those other people think about her...
Don't miss out on reading this book...it is a TREASURE worth finding! :)
Feeling the tenderness of a woman named Treasure as she just goes about trying to do what she thinks is right...and what she thinks will help at the time...
But somehow everyone she meets dislikes her...a curse...or a blessing?
Dennis is one who dislikes her...
He is working as a "lunch lady" to be close to his daughter...the daughter who is in Treasures' first grade classroom...
But as Dennis watches Treasure he comes to know the REAL her...the one who cares about other people more than she cares about what those other people think about her...
Don't miss out on reading this book...it is a TREASURE worth finding! :)
May 1, 2014
I loved this book. It is all about seeing the positive things around you and being grateful in your circumstances. There is ALWAYS something to be grateful for. We just have to look harder on some days more than others. It is also about not judging too quickly and sacrifices we make for those we love. It is also about letting go of what others think of us and being okay with you, swallowing our pride and being able to work at getting along with others even if we don't necessary agree with them. I would love to meet Treasure! She is amazing.
I look forward to more writing by Lisa. She has a way with words. I laughed out loud several times.
I look forward to more writing by Lisa. She has a way with words. I laughed out loud several times.
March 11, 2014
This was a funny and heart warming read about a young woman with a curse and a crazy family who love her. A father who is divorced and is working as a lunch daddy to be near his sweet daughter. There is dancing old ladies, teaching first grade, ugly cats and lots of craziness. I loved it and would recommend it to anyone wishing for a clean, fun read that makes you think about life and the way we treat each other.
October 30, 2014
For me, The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is more than a novel—it’s a philosophy dedicated to finding treasure in unusual places.
In the novel, Grammy Blume (Treasure’s feisty grandma) says, “Anyone can find beauty in Hawaii, looking out over ocean sunsets and sandy beaches. But not everyone can find beauty here, in sagebrush and June grass and heat and desert. . . .”
I love this idea, I loved writing this book, and I love Treasure Blume. I hope you love it too.
In the novel, Grammy Blume (Treasure’s feisty grandma) says, “Anyone can find beauty in Hawaii, looking out over ocean sunsets and sandy beaches. But not everyone can find beauty here, in sagebrush and June grass and heat and desert. . . .”
I love this idea, I loved writing this book, and I love Treasure Blume. I hope you love it too.
November 9, 2012
The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume is amazingly sweet, funny, quirky and fun. It is a must read for anyone that wants their funny bone tickled and their heartstrings plucked. To access the full review, please visit http://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress....
March 28, 2013
Great read for when you need something lighthearted and a little zany. Fun chic lit. Granny Blume and the stair steppers were my favorite! Landing my first teachings job
In Atlanta , I could relate to Treasure's first- year teaching woes in Las Vegas. Read slowly so you can savor the humor and unique vocaublary ;) of this local Idaho author ( I can hear the Cheryl in there!)
In Atlanta , I could relate to Treasure's first- year teaching woes in Las Vegas. Read slowly so you can savor the humor and unique vocaublary ;) of this local Idaho author ( I can hear the Cheryl in there!)
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