Once again, I've given my readers a taste of what I've been reading these past few months. Hope this helps you pick out something to read!
Non-fiction
Quiet by Susan Cain- This book was very eye opening for an
introvert like me and truly helped me see the culture around me in a completely
different way. Cain uses this book to show how extrovert-centered our culture
in America has become-from telling shy children to “speak up” to employers
tending to hire extroverts.
I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai- Because of this book, I have
a new dream. Every girl on the planet should have the right to an education.
Malala Yousafzai was 12 years old when the Taliban took over her region of
Pakistan, and 14 years old when it became illegal to girls to receive an
education there. When she stood up to them by going to school with her friends
anyway, the Taliban leaders in her town boarded the truck she was riding and
shot her in the face. She survived to tell her story. In her words, “Extremist
have shown what frightens them the most: a girl with a book.”
Jesus Feminist by Sarah Bessey - I know. I’ve already lost some you because I used the “f-word” but bear with me. This is not a book of ranting and man-hating. It is a story of peace and love. Bessey seeks to point out the women in the Bible, how Jesus treated them, and then compare that to how women of the church are treated today. Honestly one of the best perspectives I’ve read in a long time. She also points out that word “feminist” has many different meanings and connotations, and there are also many different varieties of them. I’m proud to say that I am now a feminist of the Jesus variety. I’m telling you as a friend, you should read it, regardless of your gender.
12 Years a Slave by
Solomon Northup- So I jumped on a band wagon and read this one because of a
movie. In my defense, Benedict Cumberbatch was in that movie. Joking aside,
this was the tale of a freed slave during the Civil War who was sold into
slavery against his will. He spent 12 years trying to get back to the wife and
children he left behind. The freedman’s perspective gives a different view of
slavery. One that is indisputably sobering.
Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder- This is the
story of Paul Farmer, a man who, in the author’s words, would change the world.
His journey was remarkable, even though some of his hardships were difficult to
read. He changed the world of modern medicine by dedicating his life to finding
cures for diseases and bringing medical technology to those who needed it most.
This a journey through many third world counties and helped me put into
perspective just how vast the world of medicine becomes when you take it out of
a Western hospital. There are so many cultural, economic, and political situations
that intertwine his story. Masterfully done.
Fiction
Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay- Such an incredible tale
weaving a modern journalist’s story with the untold stories of the Jews during
the Nazi takeover of France during World War 2. Both heart-breaking and
heart-warming at times, I highly recommend it.
The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Gilbraith aka J.K.Rowling- This
was a very entertaining murder mystery. The characters were well thought out, not ordinary, and over all it was suspenseful, dangerous, and witty. Don’t hold your expectations too
high, though. (I'm talking to you, Potterheads.) It’s a different brand
of literature, so don’t expect the level of genius that came with Harry Potter.
Sycamore Row by John Grisham- I had forgotten how much I
truly enjoy John Grisham’s novels. (Despite the male-led gender bias.) This is
the follow-story to A Time to Kill.
Same characters, different case a few years later. Still racially charged, but
with not quiet the excitement level as the previous book. Overall, a good “fun
read”.
Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult- When a baby is found dead in
an Amish barn, an investigation ensues, causing more than just the Amish
characters to take an introspective look at their lives. This was such a great
look into Amish culture. Although it isn't a religious book, it is a very
balanced, unbiased look at a religious society. The story line was great, with
plenty of good twists as well.
Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell- This was the cutest
little love story ever. Awkward and hilarious, but realistic. This is
completely a fun read, not for depth or insight, but it was really enjoyable
and a quick read. If you are a parent, a little screening may be necessary due
to language.
Persuasion by Jane Austen- Its one of her lesser known works
but one of my favorites. Anne is a great character, older than Austen’s normal
heroines, and as such has a level of maturity. She has already learned from past
mistakes. She is wise, practical, and has emotional depth. And that Captain
Wentworth…well, SWOON….
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