I have read a string of really good books over the past four months, all having that special beckoning quality that makes you look forward to finding the time to sit down and read. There’s nothing better than that. So I thought I’d share these recommendations, in case you’re looking for that next great book.
The Red Tent, by Anita Diamant. This book has been out for years, but I just got around to reading it. It’s a wonderful story about the Story of Dinah, daughter of Jacob and sister of Joseph. The story is about the tribe of Jacob and the bonds of womenhood and the importance of the Red Tent – the womanly place where rites of passage are celebrated.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Schaffer and Annie Barrows. A wonderful book whose stories unfold through a series of letters written during WWII and the German occupation of Guernsey.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett. A debut novel, the author weave a story set in Mississippi about the relationship between white women and the black women who take care of their home and raise their children. This book is insightful and riveting.
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. Set in Barcelona, this story is about a young man on a quest to find other books by an author he has discovered – and finds all books have been destroyed. While it seems like an unassuming and maybe even mundane plot line, the story is rich with wonderful writing, character development and true intrigue.
Today I opened the pages of The Tender Bar by J.R. Moehringer, a memoir about a fatherless boy growing up in Manhasset, New York and the huge presence the patrons of a local bar have on his life. I will write more about this one once I finish, but it’s the type of book you pick up and are pulled in to from the start.
Please share any good books you’ve read lately, or even some of your all time favorites!
3-8-2010 08:51:28
The Art of Racing in the Rain is an excellent book. It was probably one of the ten best book I’ve ever read.
3-8-2010 09:15:22
Just finished The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – a very well written and incredibly interesting story. I highly recommend it!
3-8-2010 09:45:04
Talk about an offer I can’t refuse…
Enthusiastic recommendations for:
Little Bee–A story of chance meetings that influence one’s destiny set in England and Liberia.
The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet–very touching tale set in present day Washington state and retracing events and characters, one Chinese, one Japanese, who are personally affected
by the U. S. internment of the American Japanese in WWII.
The Bronze Horseman–a story with exceptionally vivid events and truly unforgettable characters. Historically accurate description of Russia as Germany invades in 1941 and the infamous, deadly Leningrad (formerly St. Petersburg)blockade where despite the most grim of times romance flourishes.
Fieldwork–tracing the compelling life of a female anthrapologist as she explores tribes in Tibet and surrounding areas. Interwoven are the stories of missonary families sent to expose the tribesfolk to Christianity.
Those Who Save Us–an unusual reflection by both a mother and daughter who live most of their lives in the U.S. after being “saved” by strange circumstances and memorable people in WW II.
The Drowning Tree–a novel of characters and intriguing plot which takes place in the world of art and academia. A mystery to be solved and art restoration is learned.
Sashenka–Set in Russia just as the revolution is beginning. Traces a young girl who becomes one of the Communist elite and of the unimaginable toll taken by the vigilant and vengeful KGB. Not at all propoganda, much a personal story of Sashenka and her world connected to the present by a fascinating link to the past.
Enjoy, fellow readers, enjoy.
3-8-2010 10:28:22
I second the first three books on Anne’s list, plus the House on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet on Ann’s. I would add “The Whiskey Rebels” by David Liss. This story of intrigue takes place in the early days of our country as growth expanded west beyond the 13 colonies. Characters in the novel include Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. If you like a good mystery, with a dollop of romance, this book is for you.
Question: Has anyone read “The Lacuna?” It seems like one of those books that I should like, but don’t. I am about halfway through and feel like the story has lost its luster. Tell me, should I perservere?
3-14-2010 12:43:12
I am currently reading “The Help” and will look for some of the others recommended here. I have also been reading novels by Sue Miller I found at a used bookstore. I have enjoyed everything I’ve ever read by her. Yesterday I spied a used copy of “Paper Trail” by Ellen Goodman, journalist, and promised myself I will pick it up if it’s there next time I visit.