I talked a bit at the beginning of the year about what books I want to read this year {though I always leave room for random picks- if something strikes my fancy, I'm going to read while I feel inspired}. Here's what I've actually read so far:
The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines. I expected a fun and light read, and it was- but it was also surprisingly inspiring and motivational. Their intense work ethic, and Joanna's chosen attitudes in adversity and mothering challenges were very instructive.
John Adams by David McCullough. A door stop of a book, it requires serious commitment... but it is totally worth it {read more of my thoughts about it here}.
Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mewed by Alan Bradley. The most recent installment in the Flavia DeLuce series. I like these mysteries because they are squeaky clean, well-written, and while engaging, not so un-put-downable that they dominate my life. Story grip is a big weakness for me, as my house and family tend to get neglected.
Parenting the Whole Hearted Child by Jeannie Cunnion. The last hold-over from last year's parenting books I mean to read list. Very edifying, lots of good food for thought.
The Complete Book of Home Organization by Toni Hammersley. Eye-candy and lots of homemaking inspiration. Fun!
Emily Climbs and Emily's Quest by L.M. Montgomery. This was three days of pure pleasure reading :).
Pocketful of Pinecones by Karen Andreola. A fictional journal from a homeschooling mother in the 1930's. It's a sweet introduction to Charlotte Mason and nature journaling. And it vaguely reminded me of Stepping Heavenward.
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult. An engaging story on a difficult issue, with the surprise twist at the end that Picoult is famous for.
Own Your Life by Sally Clarkson. I really appreciate Sally's push for women to take responsibility for themselves. A much needed voice in the age of excuses and blame shifting, with lots of encouragement and hope.
Teaching from Rest by Sarah MacKenzie. I liked this book a lot, but didn't find it as earth-shattering as all of the glowing recommendations I've heard. I think it might be because I've been a big fan of Sarah's for awhile, and much of the information wasn't new to me. But I still recommend it! And if you don't listen to the Read Aloud Revival podcast, what are you waiting for?!?!
Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance. There's a reason it's a New York Times Bestseller. If you've thought about reading this but just aren't sure, I say go for it!
Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss. A reread for me, it's a Christian classic that every woman should have and live in. So challenging, beautiful, and spiritually instructive!
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman. My mom loaned me her copy months ago, so I figured I was overdue to read and return it. I got into the characters and for the most part enjoyed the book, but I can't say I loved it. It was okay. The plot kind of hits this spot where you know things can't recover, and then it just took it's sweet time coming to the resolution. Because it was going to be a no-win no matter how it ended, I sort of stopped caring.
Columbine by Dave Cullen. This event had a drastic effect on my generation. I remember gobbling up newspapers and periodicals as a 7th grader, trying to wrap my mind around what was at the time the most massive school shooting. This book sets the record straight in great detail, and exposes all of the myths promoted by the media. She never said yes. I was completely gripped.
A Mother's Reckoning by Sue Klebold. After finishing Columbine, I dove right into this one. Such a sad story. I appreciate Sue's honesty and vulnerability.
How to Master the English Bible by Dr. James M. Gray. I read the entire thing on a Sunday afternoon. After thinking through both Macro and Micro approaches to Bible Reading, I can't wait to apply Gray's method to my own time in the Word.
What have you been reading lately?
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