Just a few more of the books I’ve been reading lately. And, as always, I’d love to hear your recommendations!
(Sunflowers from our yard, courtesy of the Mister, who stealthily planted them before we’d officially closed on our house.)
The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: I’m not usually one for self-help or “inspirational” books, but if you’re involved in any kind of artistic pursuit, and you’ve ever felt stuck, you must read this book. He has a very no-holds-barred, “get off your butt and do what you love” style–perfect for the times that a kick in the pants is exactly what you need.
Room by Emma Donoghue: I love a book written from a unique perspective, and this one, written from the perspective of a 5-year-old boy who was born and lives in the small room where his mother is held captive, certainly fits that bill. I was afraid that the content might make it just too disturbing, but I easily got wrapped up in this book, and finished it in a day. One of the reviews called it a book you’ll want to finish in one sitting, and that is totally the case–if you start it, you won’t want to stop until you learn what happens to Jack and his Ma.
Home by Marilynne Robinson: This book is a companion, of sorts, to her novel Gilead (which, as I’ve mentioned before, I really enjoyed). It might have just been too long since I ready Gilead, but I didn’t find myself liking this story as much as I had hoped. The characters have some interesting conversations about salvation and pre-destination but, other than that, I felt like I was more plowing through to get to the end. Perhaps if you read the two books back to back it might be more enjoyable?
The Help by Kathryn Stockett: I have to admit, I don’t tend to jump right on the bandwagon of really popular books. But, when Kristin recommended it in response to my request for suggestions of books I could “get lost” in, I knew I had to check it out! I’m about half way through, and it is exactly that–a lovely story that you can curl up with and find yourself lost in the story.
I’m headed out of town for a wedding in Boston this weekend, and I couldn’t be more excited. Happy Friday!
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Ooh, I want to read the War of Art…after taking off some time this summer, I need a big dose of inspiration to get back in the creative swing of things. Thanks for the recommendation! Right now I’m reading Davita’s Harp by Chaim Potok, because a few of my friends gave it rave reviews. If you like Potok, or are interested in mid-century international politics or Judaism you might enjoy it. It’s written from the perspective of a young girl whose parents are communist radicals- very interesting and unique.