A Space for Books
Reading! Are you making time for it? After I had my kiddo, I didn’t (I was too tired!) read very much. It was more of the occasional scroll through Facebook, or a quick glimpse of a blog or article online.
But picking up a real paper-bound book? Not even close! And I missed it! I’ve always been an avid reader. Always. I remember as a kid devouring any book I could get my hands on. I grew up before Barnes & Noble was a thing. But mom faithfully took us to the library, and I always came home with a stack of books in hand.
But one of my goals has been to read more! That is a priority for me. So, I downloaded the Goodreads app to help me stay organized. It’s a great little tool. When I see a book that I want to read, I simply put it on my “Want to Read” list. And when I start reading a book, I put it on my “Reading” list.
My favorite Goodreads feature is the reading challenge. You sign up in January and record how many books you want to read over the year. As you mark a book finished, it’s added to your “Reading Challenge” list. It’s a great way to track titles and how much you’re reading.
I thought I’d share the books that I’ve read over 2018. I’d recommend any of them if you’re looking for a good story to read.
Wonder by R. J. Palacio: What a book! It’s written for young adults, but a good librarian friend of mine recommended this when I was feeling especially despondent about the world. There just seems to be so much “meanness” going around! Go pick up this book and read, she said. So, I listened and read this gem of a book. August Pullman, the main character, is born with facial deformities. Wonder challenges everyone to see past a face and into someone’s true character. Each chapter is told from the viewpoint of a character, from Aggie’s sister, to his best friend, to his worst enemy. I couldn’t put it down. And after I read the book I watched the movie, which was just as lovely. If you’re looking for a reminder of the power of kindness, pick this one up! You won’t be disappointed!
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Oh yes, what a delightful little book. Don’t let its size fool you. Adichie packs a punch with this one. If you want a quick read, this is the book for you. If want to understand why feminism is still relevant and needed in 2018, read this book! It’s an essay of hers, first published in 2014 that seems even more needed, today, as we head into 2019.
Hands Free Mama and Hands Free Life by Rachel Stafford. I spent the summer with Rachel, unpacking why our phones have become so dangerous, and why we must learn to put them down. We’re too distracted and missing out on life and family. iPhones have become the 21st century addiction. Her books are great because they give practical steps if you’re having trouble putting down your phone. She calls for living in the present (which can’t be done when you’re scroll through Facebook) and letting go of the perfectionism that many of us struggle with.
Bones Are Forever by Kathy Reichs. I love a good mystery! And I love the character “Bones”, in Reich’s novels. Her books can be a bit gruesome, but the stories are always compelling. Bones is a forensic anthropologist, and solves murders by studying the bones of the dead. The story begins in Montreal with the death (or murder) of three infants; the reader follows the clues to Edmonton, and then to a mining community in the Northwest territory of Yellowknife. With so many twists and turns, this “who done it” will keep you riveted until the end.
The Silent Girl by Tess Gerritsen. Another great mystery! I love Gerritsen’s Rizzoli and Isles series. This story takes place in Boston’s Chinatown when a woman’s severed hand is found. The clues lead the cop and medical examiner back to an earlier murder-suicide from 19 years ago.
Depth of Winter by Craig Johnson. I love the Walt Longmire series! (This is #14.) I have to say that this wasn’t my favorite book. It was extremely violent and graphic, and didn’t take place in Wyoming. Walt (the main character) is searching for his kidnapped daughter in Mexico. Johnson is a master at creating dialog and description. Wyoming comes alive when Johnson writes. I do recommend the rest of the Longmire series. You will love his characters and his stories; so seek them out and enjoy!
Cracking the Camouflage Ceiling by Chaplain Janet Yarlott Horton. Wow, is all I have to say about Horton’s experience in the army. Her story begins in the 1970’s and goes right through 9/11. She was at the Pentagon, literally, during the attacks. Her story shows the power of prayer and how it can diffuse sexism and bring healing in any situation. If you want to read a story of hope, pick up this book.
Girl Made of Clay by Nicole Meier. I just started this one, but am enjoying it already. I love Meier’s use of description; and the story is compelling, one of redemption and forgiveness between father and daughter. I loved her first novel, House of Bradbury, and am loving this one just as much. It came out in October, so pick up a copy, now!
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. I read this little ghost of a story every year the week before Christmas. I snuggle in bed and absorb this delightful tale of transformation and love. I visit old friends and delight in Dickens tremendous writing. He is still one of my favorites. I can’t wait until December to pick it up!
Happy Reading!