Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Loving a Challenge

Well, there is one month left in Spring Reading Thing Challenge at Katrina's. I think I just might actually finish my books this time around. Although I must admit the one I am reading right now is slowing me down somewhat. And not because it isn't good, but just because of the simple fact that it is non-fiction. When I picked up "How the Scots Invented the Modern World", I did so because the title sounded interesting and I had seen it on a few sights. It's turned out not exactly as I expected, in fact, I'm not sure I could define exactly what it is that I expected. Basically it's a history of the Scots, from about the late 1600's, and how their history has wrought change in the world as a whole with ideas we've adopted and still adhere to today. Now I do enjoy history, so I'm sticking with the book, even though, it's not my usual fiction fare and even though it takes me way longer to finish it. It's one of those "it's not easy reading, but I just can't put it down" kinds of books. But just please don't ask me to take a test on it when I'm finished. There is waaaay too much information contained within it's pages.


But meanwhile, I have added other reads in there as well as there is just times a girl just needs something to escape with, something a bit more on the "read without concentrating too hard" level. Somehow, How Scots Invented the Modern World is just not kind of read you take into a bubble bath with you. Or one that you read during free time play with 6 preschoolers. So I think this is the first time ever in my life that I have so many books on the go at the same time. Four in total. Very unusual for me.

And one of the signs of a true book addiction, I'm already thinking of what to read for summer. I've got some lined up, but I want your suggestions. I love finding a new author and adding to my To Be Read list. For summer I'm thinking something of a lighter nature. Fun kinds of reads. So I'm asking you all, what are you reading and what can you recommend for good summer read. One that goes well with backyards, adirondack chairs, lakes, sunscreen and blankets on the grass. And of course, one that suits being interrupted 20 times in a half hour by the preschool set. If you know of something along these lines, suggest away.

9 comments:

Faith said...

I LOVE books!!!!
I am reading an excellent one right now called Matters of Faith (fiction). It is interesting, sad, deep, funny, thought-provoking.....my goal for the summer is to read all the Mitford books..so many people tell me how awesome they are and I don't usually like christian fiction. I tend to read Christian non fiction. BUT...my sister Hope owns all the mitford books and she says they are just great. A chair on the deck, tall glass of sweet tea, my sunscreen and my children happily playing/doing their thing will hopefully happen!! HAPPY READING!

Faith said...

Oops I forgot to leave my suggestions. If you read secular fiction the Jodi Picoult books are FANTASTIC! very deep subjects like the school shootings, teen suicide, etc etc. She is an excellent author IMO.
I also really like the Lisa Samson books about the character Ashley Stockingdale..I think i have that right. those are christian fiction. Also, have you read any Anita Shreve books? hers are very good. And what about The Memory Keeper's Daughter? that is one of my faves....I could go on and on. I"ll stop now!

Faith said...

OH! you HAVE to read Sacred Pathways!!!!!

Islandsparrow said...

I'm snooping to see what people recommend for reading. I can't resist a reading list!

I'm re-reading Rumer Godden books - have you ever read An Episode of Sparrows? What about Gilead? I have a Jodi Picoult book called Handle With Care waiting for me at the library. I find some of hers a little on the dark side. But she's a good writer.

Girly Muse said...

Thanks for visiting my blog today! And I completely agree with your comment about the producers..they should NOT be picking the songs that last night!

Enjoying your blog...books...hmm, I adore reading. The last few I've read have been too heavy...but I enjoy books by Jane Green and Emily Giffin when I need a total escape...and Anne Lamott when I want funny, but also want to be challenged.

Willow said...

The Scots book sounds like one I would enjoy reading. I love history and read it in appropriate 'doses' because, well, a certain amount of a good thing is 'enough'. Right now I'm reading another Newbery Award- Jacob Have I Loved.

Jamie said...

I wish I was committed to reading more. I'll be watching to see what others suggest.

Donnetta said...

Speaking of reading, I wanted to tell you how much I am enjoying the Love as a way of life devotional.

The message/truth conveyed and the short but to the point chapters are perfect for this time in my life and schedule!

Rest assured I am immensely grateful and enjoying it as well as being challenged by it! Thanks friend!

Shawna said...

I recommend the Restoration Series by Terri Blackstock. Loved this series.

I LOVED the Four Seasons series by Catherine Palmer and Dr. Gary Chapman. It is a bit lighter.

I've enjoyed Beverly Lewis' Amish series.

The Babylon Rising Collection by Tim LaHaye are good - not particularly light - but good. I especially enjoyed The Secret on Ararat! It was great.

I recently reviewed Shelter Me, and while it is not a Christian book, it was a very good story and well-written.

That's all that comes to mind now. Of course, I'm sure you've read before that the Mark of the Lion trilogy by Francine Rivers is my all-time favorite. I think you've read those, though.

I'll be anxious to hear about your new list!