Back in my mommy blogging days, I posted my New Year's Resolutions each year. I'm still deciding what I want to do with this new blog (well, not new exactly, but mostly neglected/never quite up and running) and how much I want to share about my life beyond books, snacks, and projects. I have some resolutions about faith and prayer and about being a better wife and mom that I won't expand upon here, but I thought I'd share a few of my more concrete resolutions for 2015.
1. Stay out of Target.
I've heard of others (like my sister-in-law) trying this, and I think it would do me and my checking account much good. If I see something I really fancy (like a C9 workout top -- I love those) or there is something one of my kids wants for a birthday or something, I can order from target.com. But in 2015, I will not be popping in for one or two items and leaving a couple hundred dollars poorer. I love "stuff," especially the stuff at Target, but I think I'd feel stronger and more clear about the distinction between wants and needs if I stayed out of the stores for a year.
2. Read more books that don't sound like books I would like.
I talked about this in yesterday's post about my 2014 Reading Highlights. I want to leave my comfort zone a bit more when choosing books.
3. Write more regularly.
Figure out if I want to commit to this blog or not. I miss connections forged as a result of putting thoughts and words out into the world.
4. Make some doctors' appointments.
I am (years) overdue for my annual exam/pap smear and for a dermatologist visit. Inexcusable. I also don't have a regular doctor. Time to stop using the CVS Minute Clinic as my main health care provider.
5. Cut back on my Diet Coke consumption.
I left this one purposely vague because I don't know if I can do it. Actually, I suspect I can do it, but I don't know if I want to do it. Let's just say that if I can aim for three or fewer DCs per day, I would be feeling pretty good about my progress.
I have plenty of ideas about fitness, food, cleaning, and organization, but I'm just going to vow to do the best I can and remember that my home, my body, and I are all works in progress. Inch by inch, life is a cinch; yard by yard, life is hard.
Any resolutions for 2015? I'd love to hear about them.
Friday, January 2, 2015
Thursday, January 1, 2015
2014 Reading Highlights
I read some good books in 2014 and a few great books as well. I know what I like, and I mostly stuck to that this past year. It's time to be brave again, to leave my comfort zone and read some books I'm not sure I would like. Aren't those often the books we end up loving?
In no particular order, here are the Highlights of my 2014 Year in Books ...
Disclaimer: in most cases, I am borrowing heavily from my own GoodReads reviews for the blurbs below. Second disclaimer: only some of the books below were published in 2014.
This book was my first big read of 2014 and looking back at my GoodReads, I can see that I copped out on my review, which was: "WOW." The Goldfinch is a WOW book though. Long, but worth it. Loved all of the settings from NYC to the outlying ghost town Vegas suburbs to Amsterdam and was rooting for Theo even when I did not like his choices. 32 hours and 29 minutes of listening were heavenly, thanks to the masterful narration of David Pittu (his Xondra, Theo's dad's Vegas girlfriend, was supreme).
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
This book makes me want to go back in time and be a better teacher. Not that I was a bad teacher, but I wish I had been a Mr. Terupt. Written for young readers, Because of Mr. Terupt is a powerful reminder (for readers of any age) that we can never fully appreciate the battles others are (often silently) fighting but we CAN find the courage to be kind, to reach out, to forgive, and to give others the benefit of the doubt.
Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
A lovely, lovely book that I just inhaled. The author describes it as a book for book lovers, and I agree. This book prompted me to read one of its inspirations: Daddy Long-Legs by Jean Webster and its sequel, Dear Enemy, both of which are available as free/inexpensive ebooks.
This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett
Ann Patchett might be my favorite living writer. This collection of essays includes thoughtful, exquisitely crafted, honest essays about her family, divorce, marriage, faith, the LAPD, writing, friendship, her dog, and much more. If you aren't yet an Ann Patchett fan (trust me, you will be once you start reading her books), I'd start with Bel Canto, State of Wonder, and Patron Saint of Liars.
Want Not by Jonathan Miles
This novel about want and its partner in crime, waste, is masterfully written. Miles forces readers to think about waste (and want) in many iterations without ever being heavy-handed and without reducing his characters to types. In my past life, I would have loved to write a paper on this novel.
Seven for a Secret by Lyndsay Faye
Lyndsay Faye is some kind of genius. History, mystery, beautiful writing, and memorable characters. This novel is the second in a series about Timothy Wilde, a detective in the fledgling NYPD. The first, The Gods of Gotham, was fantastic, and I am eager for the next installment. If you listen to audiobooks or want to try them, Stephen Boyer's narration is flawless and, when voicing Timothy Wilde, dead sexy.
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
J. K. Rowling is not a bazillionaire by accident. I eagerly await the third title in the Cormoran Strike series as I can't wait to see the friendship between Robin and Strike develop. Robert Glenister narrates the audiobooks, and he is perfection.
Love, Nina: Despatches from Family Life by Nina Stibbe
Nina Stibbe was a nanny in London in the 1980s. This book contains the letters she wrote home. I love reading about London, about literary people, about English majors, about funny people, and about households/families very different from my own -- so this book was, hands down, a five-star read for me. I laughed out loud so many times while reading Nina's letters.
Mrs. Queen Takes the Train by William Kuhn
What if the Queen of England took the train on her own while wearing a hoodie? This heartwarming British book was exactly my cup of tea.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
This book is everywhere and for good reason. Great read! My new favorite of Liane Moriarty's novels (and I've enjoyed all of them).
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Ove is a crotchety old man who is tired of living. And you know what? Living right (working hard, saving money, helping others, following rules, being honest) is tiring. I just loved Ove and his story. Laughed and cried.
The Book Whisperer: Awakening the Inner Reader in Every Child by Donalyn Miller
When I was a high school Language Arts teacher, I would have struggled to implement Miller's philosophies within the required framework and curriculum, but I can see that it would be worth fighting to try to make it work. As a parent, I found ideas and inspiration for nurturing a love of reading in my kids. I like how confident and straightforward Miller is in sharing her passion for reading and readers. This book fired me up in a good way!
A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levin
I thoroughly enjoyed this expertly plotted, twisted tale. Great psychological thriller.
Trustee from the Toolroom by Nevil Shute
This book just made me happy. It's the story of a good, good man who has a great adventure. I did not love it quite as much as I loved Shute's A Town Like Alice, and I think others might find this novel slow. Pace was just right for me.
Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas (if you think your own mom is crazy ...)
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica (Chicago setting!)
Bittersweet by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore (family secrets of the super rich, forbidden love)
The Books of Shauna Niequist -- A friend and fellow book lover/former English teacher recommended Niequist's books to me. Cold Tangerines, Bittersweet, Bread and Wine ... I've loved them all. Niequist's spirituality is tangible and her writing is honest and humorous.
2014 Books from Some of My Beloved Authors --
The Matchmaker (sniff, sniff) and Winter Street (first in a trilogy, hurry up with #2) by Elin Hilderbrand
All Fall Down by Jennifer Weiner (ended too soon, but packed a punch)
The One and Only by Emily Giffin (left me a little WTF overall, but couldn't stop reading)
The One Plus One by Jojo Moyes (delightful)
Landline by Rainbow Rowell (not as awesome as Eleanor and Park or Fangirl)
Us by David Nicholls (honest look at marriage, Nicholls' novels are funny and real)
The Memoirs of Jennifer Worth -- Call the Midwife was one of my 2013 favorites. This year, I finished the series with Shadows of the Workhouse and Farewell to the East End. Bloody brilliant and inspirational to boot. Read this series to learn about history (London's East End, post WWII), midwifery, and humanity.
Graphic Novels -- This genre is new to me so I don't know exactly how to evaluate these books. I read Smile and then Sisters by Raina Telgemeier on the recommendation of my eight year-old and enjoyed them both! I also enjoyed Seconds (for adults) by Bryan Lee O'Malley.
This post would be more visually attractive if I had taken the time to track down and paste cover images for each title, but I'd rather spend my time reading!
What were your 2014 reading highlights? I'd love to know. Love to read the reading lists of others? Check out Modern Mrs. Darcy's link-up of 2014 reading lists.
In no particular order, here are the Highlights of my 2014 Year in Books ...
Disclaimer: in most cases, I am borrowing heavily from my own GoodReads reviews for the blurbs below. Second disclaimer: only some of the books below were published in 2014.
 |
| Hmmm ... looks like I don't own physical copies of many of my 2014 highlights. |
Favorite Reads of 2014
The Goldfinch by Donna TarttThis book was my first big read of 2014 and looking back at my GoodReads, I can see that I copped out on my review, which was: "WOW." The Goldfinch is a WOW book though. Long, but worth it. Loved all of the settings from NYC to the outlying ghost town Vegas suburbs to Amsterdam and was rooting for Theo even when I did not like his choices. 32 hours and 29 minutes of listening were heavenly, thanks to the masterful narration of David Pittu (his Xondra, Theo's dad's Vegas girlfriend, was supreme).
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
This book makes me want to go back in time and be a better teacher. Not that I was a bad teacher, but I wish I had been a Mr. Terupt. Written for young readers, Because of Mr. Terupt is a powerful reminder (for readers of any age) that we can never fully appreciate the battles others are (often silently) fighting but we CAN find the courage to be kind, to reach out, to forgive, and to give others the benefit of the doubt.
Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
A lovely, lovely book that I just inhaled. The author describes it as a book for book lovers, and I agree. This book prompted me to read one of its inspirations: Daddy Long-Legs by Jean Webster and its sequel, Dear Enemy, both of which are available as free/inexpensive ebooks.
This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett
Ann Patchett might be my favorite living writer. This collection of essays includes thoughtful, exquisitely crafted, honest essays about her family, divorce, marriage, faith, the LAPD, writing, friendship, her dog, and much more. If you aren't yet an Ann Patchett fan (trust me, you will be once you start reading her books), I'd start with Bel Canto, State of Wonder, and Patron Saint of Liars.
Want Not by Jonathan Miles
This novel about want and its partner in crime, waste, is masterfully written. Miles forces readers to think about waste (and want) in many iterations without ever being heavy-handed and without reducing his characters to types. In my past life, I would have loved to write a paper on this novel.
Seven for a Secret by Lyndsay Faye
Lyndsay Faye is some kind of genius. History, mystery, beautiful writing, and memorable characters. This novel is the second in a series about Timothy Wilde, a detective in the fledgling NYPD. The first, The Gods of Gotham, was fantastic, and I am eager for the next installment. If you listen to audiobooks or want to try them, Stephen Boyer's narration is flawless and, when voicing Timothy Wilde, dead sexy.
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
J. K. Rowling is not a bazillionaire by accident. I eagerly await the third title in the Cormoran Strike series as I can't wait to see the friendship between Robin and Strike develop. Robert Glenister narrates the audiobooks, and he is perfection.
Love, Nina: Despatches from Family Life by Nina Stibbe
Nina Stibbe was a nanny in London in the 1980s. This book contains the letters she wrote home. I love reading about London, about literary people, about English majors, about funny people, and about households/families very different from my own -- so this book was, hands down, a five-star read for me. I laughed out loud so many times while reading Nina's letters.
What if the Queen of England took the train on her own while wearing a hoodie? This heartwarming British book was exactly my cup of tea.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
This book is everywhere and for good reason. Great read! My new favorite of Liane Moriarty's novels (and I've enjoyed all of them).
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Ove is a crotchety old man who is tired of living. And you know what? Living right (working hard, saving money, helping others, following rules, being honest) is tiring. I just loved Ove and his story. Laughed and cried.
The Book Whisperer: Awakening the Inner Reader in Every Child by Donalyn Miller
When I was a high school Language Arts teacher, I would have struggled to implement Miller's philosophies within the required framework and curriculum, but I can see that it would be worth fighting to try to make it work. As a parent, I found ideas and inspiration for nurturing a love of reading in my kids. I like how confident and straightforward Miller is in sharing her passion for reading and readers. This book fired me up in a good way!
A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levin
I thoroughly enjoyed this expertly plotted, twisted tale. Great psychological thriller.
Trustee from the Toolroom by Nevil Shute
This book just made me happy. It's the story of a good, good man who has a great adventure. I did not love it quite as much as I loved Shute's A Town Like Alice, and I think others might find this novel slow. Pace was just right for me.
And a few more titles ...
Creepy, Compelling Reads -- these books are page turners with interesting female characters: Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas (if you think your own mom is crazy ...)
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica (Chicago setting!)
Bittersweet by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore (family secrets of the super rich, forbidden love)
The Books of Shauna Niequist -- A friend and fellow book lover/former English teacher recommended Niequist's books to me. Cold Tangerines, Bittersweet, Bread and Wine ... I've loved them all. Niequist's spirituality is tangible and her writing is honest and humorous.
2014 Books from Some of My Beloved Authors --
The Matchmaker (sniff, sniff) and Winter Street (first in a trilogy, hurry up with #2) by Elin Hilderbrand
All Fall Down by Jennifer Weiner (ended too soon, but packed a punch)
The One and Only by Emily Giffin (left me a little WTF overall, but couldn't stop reading)
The One Plus One by Jojo Moyes (delightful)
Landline by Rainbow Rowell (not as awesome as Eleanor and Park or Fangirl)
Us by David Nicholls (honest look at marriage, Nicholls' novels are funny and real)
The Memoirs of Jennifer Worth -- Call the Midwife was one of my 2013 favorites. This year, I finished the series with Shadows of the Workhouse and Farewell to the East End. Bloody brilliant and inspirational to boot. Read this series to learn about history (London's East End, post WWII), midwifery, and humanity.
Graphic Novels -- This genre is new to me so I don't know exactly how to evaluate these books. I read Smile and then Sisters by Raina Telgemeier on the recommendation of my eight year-old and enjoyed them both! I also enjoyed Seconds (for adults) by Bryan Lee O'Malley.
This post would be more visually attractive if I had taken the time to track down and paste cover images for each title, but I'd rather spend my time reading!
What were your 2014 reading highlights? I'd love to know. Love to read the reading lists of others? Check out Modern Mrs. Darcy's link-up of 2014 reading lists.
2014 Year of Books
FICTION
Unless otherwise noted, most ebooks are via Kindle app and audiobooks are via audible.com. EPL = Elmhurst (IL) Public Library
Beachcombers by Nancy Thayer
(audiobook, narrated by Karen White)
A Glass of Blessings by Barbara Pym
(ebook)
Divergent by Veronica Roth
(ebook)
A Crowded Marriage by Catherine Alliott
(ebook)
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
(audiobook, narrated by David Pittu)
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
(audiobook, narrated by Dan O'Grady)
Famous Writers I Have Known by James Magnuson
(audiobook, narrated by Kevin T. Collins)
Roomies by Sara Zarr
(library book)
The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles by Katherine Pancol (in translation)
(library book)
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
(paperback)
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
(ebook)
One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories by B.J. Novak
(hardcover)
No Fond Return of Love by Barbara Pym
(ebook)
Making It by Helen Klein Ross
(ebook)
Lexicon by Max Barry
(audiobook, narrated by Heather Corrigan and Zach Appelman)
Flat-Out Love by Jessica Park
(audiobook, narrated by Julia Whelan)
Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
(ebook via Nook app)
Pioneer Girl by Bich Minh Nguyen
(audiobook, narrated by Bernadette Dunne)
The Thursday Friend by Catherine Cookson
(ebook)
Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
(audiobook, narrated by Kirsten Potter)
Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
A Circle of Wives by Alice LaPlante
(audiobook, narrated by George Newbern, Betsy Zajko, Betsy MacNamara, Deanna Hurst, Kyle Garcia)
Want Not by Jonathan Miles
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
This One is Mine by Maria Semple
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
The Divorce Papers by Susan Rieger
(library book)
It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini
(audiobook, narrated by Robert Fass)
To Die For by Joyce Maynard
(ebook)
Seven for a Secret by Lyndsay Faye
(audiobook, narrated by Steven Boyer)
You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz
(library book)
Emily Dennistoun by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Emma D'Inverno)
Soy Sauce for Beginners by Kirstin Chen
(ebook)
Daddy-Long-Legs & Dear Enemy by Jean Webster
(ebook)
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler
(audiobook, narrated by Scott Shepherd, Ari Fliakos, Maggie Hoffman, Scott Sowers, Gary Wilmes)
Celia's House by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Leslie Mackie)
The One & Only by Emily Giffin
(audiobook, narrated by Sofia Willingham)
The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
(audiobook, narrated by Richard Morant)
A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levin
(audiobook, narrated by Mauro Hantman)
Night Music by Jojo Moyes
(audiobook, narrated by Clare Corbett)
Stargazey Point by Shelley Noble
(ebook)
The Matchmaker by Elin Hilderbrand
(audiobook, narrated by Erin Bennett)
Gone-Away Lake by Elizabeth Enright
(audiobook, Playaway via EPL)
That Part Was True by Deborah McKinlay
(audiobook, narrated by L.G. Ganser & Katherine Kellgren, CDs from EPL)
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
(audiobook, narrated by Robert Glenister)
All Fall Down by Jennifer Weiner
(library book)
Mrs. Queen Takes the Train by William Kuhn
(audiobook, narrated by Simon Prebble)
The One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
(audiobook, narrated by Elizabeth Bower, Ben Elliot, Nicola Stanton, Steven France)
The Odds: A Love Story by Stewart O'Nan
(hardback)
Guests on Earth by Lee Smith
(audiobook, narrated by Emily Woo Zeller)
The Vacationers by Emma Straub
(library book)
Landline by Rainbow Rowell
(hardback)
Astonish Me by Maggie Shipstead
(ebook via EPL)
I Am Having So Much Fun Here Without You by Courtney Maum
(library book)
The Hundred-Year House by Rebecca Makkai
(audiobook, narrated by Jen Tullock)
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
(audiobook, narrated by Caroline Lee)
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
(audiobook, narrated by George Newbern)
Fathermucker by Greg Olear
(ebook)
Dear Committee Members by Julie Schumacher
(library book)
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas
(audiobook, narrated by Mare Winningham)
The Position by Meg Wolitzer
(ebook)
The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais
(audiobook, narrated by Sartaj Garewal)
Small Blessings by Martha Woodroof
(library book)
Seconds by Bryan Lee O'Malley
(library book)
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
(ebook via EPL)
The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters
(audiobook, narrated by Juliet Stevenson)
The Four Graces by D.E. Stevenson
(ebook via EPL)
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
(ebook via EPL)
Pride and Prejudice* by Jane Austen
(audiobook, narrated by Flo Gibson)
Mrs. Tim of the Regiment by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Christine Rendel)
Silver Bay by Jojo Moyes
(library book)
Just Patty by Jean Webster
(ebook)
Bittersweet by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore
(ebook)
Us by David Nicholls
(audiobook, narrated by David Haig)
Lizzy and Jane by Katherine Reay
(ebook)
Trustee from the Toolroom by Nevil Shute
(audiobook, narrated by Frank Muller)
Reunion by Hannah Pittard
(audiobook, narrated by Julia Whelan)
Winter Street by Elin Hilderbrand
(hardcover)
The Edible Woman by Margaret Atwood
(audiobook, narrated by Lorelei King)
Home for the Holidays (Mother-Daughter Book Club #5) by Heather Vogel Frederick
(hardcover)
Amberwell by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Lesley Mackie)
Looking for Alaska by John Green
(audiobook, narrated by Jeff Woodman)
Windfallen by Jojo Moyes
(audiobook, narrated by Michelle Ford)
Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman
(ebook)
Katherine Wentworth by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Lesley Mackie)
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
(audiobook, narrated by Scott Brick)
(audiobook, narrated by Karen White)
A Glass of Blessings by Barbara Pym
(ebook)
Divergent by Veronica Roth
(ebook)
A Crowded Marriage by Catherine Alliott
(ebook)
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
(audiobook, narrated by David Pittu)
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
(audiobook, narrated by Dan O'Grady)
Famous Writers I Have Known by James Magnuson
(audiobook, narrated by Kevin T. Collins)
Roomies by Sara Zarr
(library book)
The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles by Katherine Pancol (in translation)
(library book)
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
(paperback)
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
(ebook)
One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories by B.J. Novak
(hardcover)
No Fond Return of Love by Barbara Pym
(ebook)
Making It by Helen Klein Ross
(ebook)
Lexicon by Max Barry
(audiobook, narrated by Heather Corrigan and Zach Appelman)
Flat-Out Love by Jessica Park
(audiobook, narrated by Julia Whelan)
Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
(ebook via Nook app)
Pioneer Girl by Bich Minh Nguyen
(audiobook, narrated by Bernadette Dunne)
The Thursday Friend by Catherine Cookson
(ebook)
Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
(audiobook, narrated by Kirsten Potter)
Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
A Circle of Wives by Alice LaPlante
(audiobook, narrated by George Newbern, Betsy Zajko, Betsy MacNamara, Deanna Hurst, Kyle Garcia)
Want Not by Jonathan Miles
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
This One is Mine by Maria Semple
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
The Divorce Papers by Susan Rieger
(library book)
It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini
(audiobook, narrated by Robert Fass)
To Die For by Joyce Maynard
(ebook)
Seven for a Secret by Lyndsay Faye
(audiobook, narrated by Steven Boyer)
You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz
(library book)
Emily Dennistoun by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Emma D'Inverno)
Soy Sauce for Beginners by Kirstin Chen
(ebook)
Daddy-Long-Legs & Dear Enemy by Jean Webster
(ebook)
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler
(audiobook, narrated by Scott Shepherd, Ari Fliakos, Maggie Hoffman, Scott Sowers, Gary Wilmes)
Celia's House by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Leslie Mackie)
The One & Only by Emily Giffin
(audiobook, narrated by Sofia Willingham)
The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
(audiobook, narrated by Richard Morant)
A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levin
(audiobook, narrated by Mauro Hantman)
Night Music by Jojo Moyes
(audiobook, narrated by Clare Corbett)
Stargazey Point by Shelley Noble
(ebook)
The Matchmaker by Elin Hilderbrand
(audiobook, narrated by Erin Bennett)
Gone-Away Lake by Elizabeth Enright
(audiobook, Playaway via EPL)
That Part Was True by Deborah McKinlay
(audiobook, narrated by L.G. Ganser & Katherine Kellgren, CDs from EPL)
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
(audiobook, narrated by Robert Glenister)
All Fall Down by Jennifer Weiner
(library book)
Mrs. Queen Takes the Train by William Kuhn
(audiobook, narrated by Simon Prebble)
The One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
(audiobook, narrated by Elizabeth Bower, Ben Elliot, Nicola Stanton, Steven France)
The Odds: A Love Story by Stewart O'Nan
(hardback)
Guests on Earth by Lee Smith
(audiobook, narrated by Emily Woo Zeller)
The Vacationers by Emma Straub
(library book)
Landline by Rainbow Rowell
(hardback)
Astonish Me by Maggie Shipstead
(ebook via EPL)
I Am Having So Much Fun Here Without You by Courtney Maum
(library book)
The Hundred-Year House by Rebecca Makkai
(audiobook, narrated by Jen Tullock)
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
(audiobook, narrated by Caroline Lee)
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
(audiobook, narrated by George Newbern)
Fathermucker by Greg Olear
(ebook)
Dear Committee Members by Julie Schumacher
(library book)
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas
(audiobook, narrated by Mare Winningham)
The Position by Meg Wolitzer
(ebook)
The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais
(audiobook, narrated by Sartaj Garewal)
Small Blessings by Martha Woodroof
(library book)
Seconds by Bryan Lee O'Malley
(library book)
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
(ebook via EPL)
The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters
(audiobook, narrated by Juliet Stevenson)
The Four Graces by D.E. Stevenson
(ebook via EPL)
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
(ebook via EPL)
Pride and Prejudice* by Jane Austen
(audiobook, narrated by Flo Gibson)
Mrs. Tim of the Regiment by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Christine Rendel)
Silver Bay by Jojo Moyes
(library book)
Just Patty by Jean Webster
(ebook)
Bittersweet by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore
(ebook)
Us by David Nicholls
(audiobook, narrated by David Haig)
Lizzy and Jane by Katherine Reay
(ebook)
Trustee from the Toolroom by Nevil Shute
(audiobook, narrated by Frank Muller)
Reunion by Hannah Pittard
(audiobook, narrated by Julia Whelan)
Winter Street by Elin Hilderbrand
(hardcover)
The Edible Woman by Margaret Atwood
(audiobook, narrated by Lorelei King)
Home for the Holidays (Mother-Daughter Book Club #5) by Heather Vogel Frederick
(hardcover)
Amberwell by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Lesley Mackie)
Looking for Alaska by John Green
(audiobook, narrated by Jeff Woodman)
Windfallen by Jojo Moyes
(audiobook, narrated by Michelle Ford)
Up the Down Staircase by Bel Kaufman
(ebook)
Katherine Wentworth by D.E. Stevenson
(audiobook, narrated by Lesley Mackie)
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
(audiobook, narrated by Scott Brick)
MEMOIRS, ESSAYS, and OTHER NON-FICTION
Coming Clean by Kimberly Rae Miller
(ebook)
Still Foolin' 'Em: Where I've Been, Where I'm Going, and Where the Hell Are My Keys by Billy Crystal
(audiobook -- CDs from library, narrated by the author)
A Lady in France by Jennie Goutet
(ebook)
Fakebook: A True Story of Story. Based on Actual Lies by Dave Cicirelli
(ebook)
Sister Mother Husband Dog: Etc. by Delia Ephron
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett
(library book)
Little Failure by Gary Shtenyngart
(audiobook -- CDs from EPL, narrated by Jonathan Todd Ross)
Orange Is the New Black by Piper Kerman
(audiobook, narrated by Cassandra Campbell)
Bread & Wine: A Love Letter to Life Around the Table, with Recipes by Shauna Niequist
(hardback)
Love Life by Rob Lowe
(audiobook, narrated by the author)
Stuffocation by James Wallman
(ebook via Nook app)
Cold Tangerines: Celebrating the Extraordinary Nature of Everyday Life by Shauna Niequist
(ebook)
Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness by Susannah Cahalan
(audiobook, narrated by Heather Henderson)
Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon
(library book)
The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way by Amanda Ripley
(audiobook, narrated by Kate Reading)
Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace, and Learning the Hard Way by Shauna Niequist
(paperback)
Glitter and Glue by Kelly Corrigan
(audiobook, narrated by Kelly Corrigan, CDs via EPL)
I Don't Know What You Know Me From: Confessions of a Co-Star by Judy Greer
(library book)
Something Other Than God How I Passionately Sought Happiness and Accidentally Found It by Jennifer Fulwiler
(ebook)
Delancey: A Man, A Woman, A Restaurant, A Marriage by Molly Wizenberg
(library book)
Ham: Slices of a Life, Essays and Stories by Sam Harris
(ebook)
Love, Nina: Despatches from Family Life by Nina Stibbe
(library book)
My Mistake by Daniel Menaker
(ebook)
Truth and Beauty by Ann Patchett
(ebook)
The Book Whisperer: Awakening the Inner Reader in Every Child by Donalyn Miller
(paperback)
Notes from a Blue Bike: The Art of Living Intentionally in a Chaotic World by Tsh Oxenreider
(ebook)
Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham
(ebook)
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
(library book)
Shadows of the Workhouse by Jennifer Worth
(audiobook, narrated by Nicola Barber)
Smile by Raina Telgemeier
(library book)
Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
(library book)
Walden on Wheels: On the Open Road from Debt to Freedom by Ken Ilgunas
(audiobook, narrated by Nick Podehl)
The Sweet Life in Paris by David Lebovitz
(ebook)
Domestic Affairs: Enduring the Pleasures of Motherhood and Family Life by Joyce Maynard
(ebook)
Farewell to the East End: The Last Days of the East End Midwives by Jennifer Worth
(audiobook, narrated by Nicola Barber)
(ebook)
Still Foolin' 'Em: Where I've Been, Where I'm Going, and Where the Hell Are My Keys by Billy Crystal
(audiobook -- CDs from library, narrated by the author)
A Lady in France by Jennie Goutet
(ebook)
Fakebook: A True Story of Story. Based on Actual Lies by Dave Cicirelli
(ebook)
Sister Mother Husband Dog: Etc. by Delia Ephron
(ebook, via EPL My Media Mail)
This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett
(library book)
Little Failure by Gary Shtenyngart
(audiobook -- CDs from EPL, narrated by Jonathan Todd Ross)
Orange Is the New Black by Piper Kerman
(audiobook, narrated by Cassandra Campbell)
Bread & Wine: A Love Letter to Life Around the Table, with Recipes by Shauna Niequist
(hardback)
Love Life by Rob Lowe
(audiobook, narrated by the author)
Stuffocation by James Wallman
(ebook via Nook app)
Cold Tangerines: Celebrating the Extraordinary Nature of Everyday Life by Shauna Niequist
(ebook)
Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness by Susannah Cahalan
(audiobook, narrated by Heather Henderson)
Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon
(library book)
The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way by Amanda Ripley
(audiobook, narrated by Kate Reading)
Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace, and Learning the Hard Way by Shauna Niequist
(paperback)
Glitter and Glue by Kelly Corrigan
(audiobook, narrated by Kelly Corrigan, CDs via EPL)
I Don't Know What You Know Me From: Confessions of a Co-Star by Judy Greer
(library book)
Something Other Than God How I Passionately Sought Happiness and Accidentally Found It by Jennifer Fulwiler
(ebook)
Delancey: A Man, A Woman, A Restaurant, A Marriage by Molly Wizenberg
(library book)
Ham: Slices of a Life, Essays and Stories by Sam Harris
(ebook)
Love, Nina: Despatches from Family Life by Nina Stibbe
(library book)
My Mistake by Daniel Menaker
(ebook)
Truth and Beauty by Ann Patchett
(ebook)
The Book Whisperer: Awakening the Inner Reader in Every Child by Donalyn Miller
(paperback)
Notes from a Blue Bike: The Art of Living Intentionally in a Chaotic World by Tsh Oxenreider
(ebook)
Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham
(ebook)
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
(library book)
Shadows of the Workhouse by Jennifer Worth
(audiobook, narrated by Nicola Barber)
Smile by Raina Telgemeier
(library book)
Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
(library book)
Walden on Wheels: On the Open Road from Debt to Freedom by Ken Ilgunas
(audiobook, narrated by Nick Podehl)
The Sweet Life in Paris by David Lebovitz
(ebook)
Domestic Affairs: Enduring the Pleasures of Motherhood and Family Life by Joyce Maynard
(ebook)
Farewell to the East End: The Last Days of the East End Midwives by Jennifer Worth
(audiobook, narrated by Nicola Barber)
* indicates a re-read.
Unless otherwise noted, most ebooks are via Kindle app and audiobooks are via audible.com. EPL = Elmhurst (IL) Public Library
Saturday, November 1, 2014
Late Nights with the Lizzie Bennet Diaries
I've been enjoying a mostly bookish tweet stream for at least five years now, but somehow did not know about The Lizzie Bennet Diaries until just a few months ago. Had no idea, but WOW, talk about the most pleasant find ever.
The Lizzie Bennet Diaries (henceforth referred to as "LBD") reimagines Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice (henceforth "P&P") through a mid-twenties vlogger named Lizzie Bennet. I loved the modernization and adaptation of my all-time favorite novel. The shows' creators account for contemporary life, social media, feminism, technology, etc. with great energy, creativity, and a real sense of fun. These diaries feel true to the spirit of Austen's novel and her characters, but are not wed to each plot point in a plodding or forced way. So enjoyable, so satisfying.
I especially loved how LBD portrays Lydia Bennet in a more forgiving, hopeful way. The casting was spot on for each character, actually. I did not spend a lot of time studying the cast photo above and I don't recommend you do either. That way, you can savor the anticipation and be really quite thrilled when you finally meet Darcy in these videos. There have been many hot Darcys in the past two decades and this one ranks right up there (though I am admittedly lukewarm on a couple of his outfits in these episodes).
I watched these videos on my ipad via the Pemberley Digital website. That method allows you to also see the "tweets" sent by the characters as part of the story. And, it's free. I think you can buy the DVD, which I just might do for the pleasure of sitting down to watch and enjoy without having to wait for streaming and scroll and click for the next episode. If you have a little time and a decent internet connection though, just get started! LBD episodes are usually in the 2-6 minute range, but warning: as you get into the story and catch the feel of the adaptation, good luck limiting yourself to a couple episodes as a time. I was up past midnight two nights this week watching "just one more" episode. I watched the last five earlier this evening and could not stop smiling.
To quote their site bio, Pemberley Digital is "an innovative web video production company that specializes in the adaptation of classic works onto the new media format." I look forward to trying some of their other Austen interpretations: Emma Approved and Welcome to Sanditon.
Have you watched LBD or any of the other Pemberley Digital offerings? Recs for another viewing addiction? Lead me in a good direction please!
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
This Week's Book Buffet -- July 7th(ish)
Sadly, I am not stretched out on a chaise, sipping a mojito, feeling a slight breeze, and losing myself in my book. I am not even spending much time reading on a quite comfortable chair on my side porch with a cold can of DC. And yet, I do feel like I have more time to read this summer. As my kids recover indoors after a full morning of outdoor activity, I have longish stretches of time to piddle around the house trying to create order and clean laundry while listening to an audiobook. I tote a book book around town and steal moments while my peeps are occupied with tennis lessons or a library class. I have my ebook ready on my phone as I lie next to whomever needs a little company to settle into sleep.
Here's what's on this week's book buffet:
Ebook: I am finally reading Ann Patchett's Truth and Beauty. I have always avoided this book--the story of Patchett's friendship with the late Lucy Grealy--because I imagined it would be depressing. Patchett's This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage includes an essay about Truth and Beauty being protested by some vocal members of the Clemson community after the book was chosen as the reading selection for incoming freshman. I then vowed to read it. I adore Patchett's writing as much as ever and am intrigued by this memoir of two remarkable women writers and their friendship. Now, I'm going to have to read Grealy's Autobiography of a Face too.
Audiobook: I'm savoring each syllable of Jojo Moyes's The One Plus One -- long-awaited by me and many others who adored Me Before You. This story of a road trip, an unlikely connection, and a mother doing the best she can is right in my sweet spot. Plus, audiobooks narrated by Brits are always my cup of tea.
Book Book: I was so taken with Stewart O'Nan's 2007 novel Last Night at the Lobster and was thrilled to find The Odds: A Love Story in the book sale my room of my library as it has been on my TBR list for a while now. I'm a little more than a third of the way through this slim novel, but feeling like his portrait of the final weekend of a long and imperfect (as are most in varying degrees) marriage is perfectly rendered. He is very attuned to the details, the gestures and exchanges of relationships. Plus, who isn't intrigued by this plot: a couple in debt and on the verge of divorce deciding to take a bus to Niagara Falls and gamble all they have left?
On Deck: Two of the books on my library list became available today. I imagine I will like Emma Straub's The Vacationers as much as many others have. George Saunders' Congratulations, by the way (a published graduation speech) has won me with the blurb on the back: "Here's something I know to be true, although it's a little corny, and I don't know quite what to do with it: What I regret most in my life are failures of kindness."
Buzz at the Pool: One of the things I love about summer is how people are so interested in talking books and trading recommendations! Jennifer Weiner's All Fall Down is gaining traction among swim team moms. I read it quickly and think most moms would be easily engrossed in this tale of a mom who goes to extremes to manage her life's stresses. I also adored Elin Hilderbrand's The Matchmaker, as have several friends. Three readers I trust have recommended Jane Green's Tempting Fate. I've never quite forgiven Green for Jemima J and tend to avoid her books, but maybe I will check it out.
Snackshot Snapshot: My Jewel has just started stocking Friendly's ice cream products. The ice cream is good (though, of course, does not compare to the premium Graeter's which my grocery also sells) but, more importantly, Friendly's ice cream takes me back to childhood when a meal or dessert at Friendly's was a very special treat. It also reminds me of the summer before I started high school when I waitressed at a Friendly's. Not my favorite job ever, but I'm proud that I did it well. I still remember gleefully counting my tip money at the end of a shift and ordering Friendly's quesadillas (then an exotic new menu item) to eat during break.
Enough about me now. What are you reading? What are you eating? How's your summer?
Here's what's on this week's book buffet:
Ebook: I am finally reading Ann Patchett's Truth and Beauty. I have always avoided this book--the story of Patchett's friendship with the late Lucy Grealy--because I imagined it would be depressing. Patchett's This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage includes an essay about Truth and Beauty being protested by some vocal members of the Clemson community after the book was chosen as the reading selection for incoming freshman. I then vowed to read it. I adore Patchett's writing as much as ever and am intrigued by this memoir of two remarkable women writers and their friendship. Now, I'm going to have to read Grealy's Autobiography of a Face too.
Audiobook: I'm savoring each syllable of Jojo Moyes's The One Plus One -- long-awaited by me and many others who adored Me Before You. This story of a road trip, an unlikely connection, and a mother doing the best she can is right in my sweet spot. Plus, audiobooks narrated by Brits are always my cup of tea.
Book Book: I was so taken with Stewart O'Nan's 2007 novel Last Night at the Lobster and was thrilled to find The Odds: A Love Story in the book sale my room of my library as it has been on my TBR list for a while now. I'm a little more than a third of the way through this slim novel, but feeling like his portrait of the final weekend of a long and imperfect (as are most in varying degrees) marriage is perfectly rendered. He is very attuned to the details, the gestures and exchanges of relationships. Plus, who isn't intrigued by this plot: a couple in debt and on the verge of divorce deciding to take a bus to Niagara Falls and gamble all they have left?
On Deck: Two of the books on my library list became available today. I imagine I will like Emma Straub's The Vacationers as much as many others have. George Saunders' Congratulations, by the way (a published graduation speech) has won me with the blurb on the back: "Here's something I know to be true, although it's a little corny, and I don't know quite what to do with it: What I regret most in my life are failures of kindness."
Buzz at the Pool: One of the things I love about summer is how people are so interested in talking books and trading recommendations! Jennifer Weiner's All Fall Down is gaining traction among swim team moms. I read it quickly and think most moms would be easily engrossed in this tale of a mom who goes to extremes to manage her life's stresses. I also adored Elin Hilderbrand's The Matchmaker, as have several friends. Three readers I trust have recommended Jane Green's Tempting Fate. I've never quite forgiven Green for Jemima J and tend to avoid her books, but maybe I will check it out.
Snackshot Snapshot: My Jewel has just started stocking Friendly's ice cream products. The ice cream is good (though, of course, does not compare to the premium Graeter's which my grocery also sells) but, more importantly, Friendly's ice cream takes me back to childhood when a meal or dessert at Friendly's was a very special treat. It also reminds me of the summer before I started high school when I waitressed at a Friendly's. Not my favorite job ever, but I'm proud that I did it well. I still remember gleefully counting my tip money at the end of a shift and ordering Friendly's quesadillas (then an exotic new menu item) to eat during break.
Enough about me now. What are you reading? What are you eating? How's your summer?
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Books Before Bed
Getting three kids to sleep can take a while (sometimes 90 minutes when I am doing it solo), especially because I am kind of a softie when it comes to pleas of "one more book" or "one more chapter." Without boring you with the details of our household's various bedtime rituals, I wanted to share the bedtime books being enjoyed in each child's bedroom this week.
The ritual begins with my lovely daughter, on the cusp of turning four. Earlier this winter, she was obsessed with Bridget's Beret, an adorable children's book by Tom Lichtenheld -- this story of a young artist captured the heart of my little artist. Last week, she punished me with repeated requests for Angelina Ballerina The Shining Star Trophy. This week, we brought our two Little Critter anthologies up to her room. We're both enjoying revisiting these old favorites. Mercer Mayer's beautiful and clever illustrations, his sense of humor, and his candid but ultimately positive depiction of childhood appeals to little critters and their parents.
Tip: Collections that include multiple children's books inside one cover make great gifts and make it easier to decide on "just one more" book at bedtime.
My middle guy, age five, is supposed to read me a couple of stories as one part of his bedtime routine. We try to read from the Superkids stories that are part of his school's reading program. I love Superkids, but he is not always feeling it (to say the least) so we are trying to move his reading practice time to earlier in the day. I got out of the habit of reading chapter books to him at bedtime because I'd had a little too much Junie B. (which had been his choice for a while -- I am not anti-Junie B., mind you, just was needing a break). When my oldest was in kindergarten, I read him all of the Beverly Clearly books that featured Henry Huggins, Ramona, and Beezus.
 |
| We're reading my copy from the 80s! |
So, my middle guy and I are halfway through Henry Huggins by Beverly Cleary. I cannot say enough good things about this book for little boys. The book was originally published in 1950 (the same year my parents were born), and there are (enjoyable) lessons to be learned from childhood in an earlier era. Can Henry have a dog? Sure, but he has to take complete responsibility for Ribsy and use his own money for his license, flea collar, food, and dog bowl. (Side note: Henry also walks to the butcher on his own to buy horse meat for Ribsy). Can Henry care for thousands of guppies in his bedroom? Sure, but he'll learn about research and responsibility as he does it. How about when Henry is tossing football with his neighbor Scooter and accidentally throws Scooter's football inside a passing car? The football is gone. Scooter wants a replacement. It costs almost $14 (which must have been a fortune in 1950). I can see my 2014 self saying to my son, "It's okay, it's only $14. We can replace it. Don't stress about it." And by "we," I would mean "me." Henry does not go straight to his parents with this issue. He takes stock of his funds and brainstorms how he will pay for a new football. When his neighbor gives him a chance to dig night crawlers for fishing bait and agrees to pay him ONE CENT per worm, Henry literally digs in and finds enough worms to buy the new football. When he is still digging worms past dark, his parents join him at the public park (where he's been alone with his dog Ribsy -- different era) and help him finish the job. They help him help himself. Lessons here for my son and for me!
 |
| I will be forever charmed by Louis Darling's illustration of Mrs. Huggins, the proper 1950's housewife, digging for night crawlers!  |
Last stop on the bedtime express is my oldest, eight years old and a READER! As he waits for me to make my way to his room, he reads. When I arrive, he tells me about what he has read and sometimes I give him a little more reading time as I read my own book on my phone. He received a Roald Dahl box set for Christmas and just inhaled Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Along with Laura Ingalls Wilder's Farmer Boy, which we read together last year, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was one of my most beloved childhood books that I never owned. I regularly checked it out of our little school library. What a joy to see him enjoy this book! Plus, I finally have an appreciative audience for my Veruca Salt impression. The Gene Wilder version of the movie, 40th anniversary edition, is on sale at Target for four bucks this week. We are looking forward to a movie night this weekend.
Our days are busy, our house is messy, and there is always plenty I need and want to do downstairs, but I never regret time spent with my kids on books before bed.
What are the current and/or all-time favorite books before bed in your house? Please share!
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Library Ebooks -- Oh My!
I'm not that interested in the ebook versus print debate. I love the ability to read an ebook on my phone, ipad, or Kindle, but I also LOVE books as objects. I will continue to read, collect, and buy book books. If physical books were to disappear, I would be devastated, but I'm now at the point where I would miss ebooks as well (not that they are going anywhere). I hope the view that more ways for people to read equals more readers/more reading in the world is not too naive.
When I first purchased a Kindle (foolishly, many years ago when one cost about 4x what it does now), I was delighted by the promise that most bestsellers would be available for $9.99 or less. Many years later, the savvy ebook reader with the Kindle, Nook, and Kobo apps on her phone and/or tablet can check daily deals on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo to find fantastic ebooks available for a limited time (usually one day or one month) for two or three dollars. This bargain ebook search is part of my morning routine.
Such discounts are great and do introduce readers to new books and authors. It's easy to gamble on an unknown or barely known quantity for $1.99. I admit though that I have now one-clicked my way into more $2 ebooks than I currently have interest in and time for reading. In fact, buying discounted ebooks is the new version of my old habit of buying hardbacks in the Barnes and Noble Bargain Book aisles. Unfortunately, I did the bulk of my bargain book buying in the years when I was moving apartments every one or two years. Nothing like moving box after box of heavy books that you haven't read but thought you might because they were only $5.99.
Though I've always been willing to spend money on books, I have also been a frequent user of the public library. When I lived in Chicago before the age of the ipod, I regularly scoured five different branches of the Chicago Public Library to find audiobooks on tape and CD to check out. While there, I made a habit of checking the "new books" shelf and was often pleasantly surprised to find at least one recent release that I would have paid for but could now borrow. The ability to order and hold books at public libraries makes it even easier to read desired books, especially if you possess patience.
I now have access to one of the most wonderful suburban public libraries imaginable: The Elmhurst Public Library. I've known for a couple of years that ebooks and digital audiobooks were available through the EPL, but sort of figured that it would be a technological challenge to download them and that the ebooks available would mostly be public domain titles that I can easily access elsewhere. WRONG. It took about five minutes on the library's website to read the tutorial and get started checking out ebooks. If you want a more recent release, you will have to place a hold and wait until it is your turn, which can take a while. Unless you are a great advance planner or get lucky, library ebooks are probably not the best choice for book club selections or required school reading. I personally don't mind the wait. I like knowing a good book will be coming to me sometime soon(ish) and it's sort of a happy surprise to get the email saying that your ebook title is available. Life's little pleasures, etc.
I have also been downloading children's titles to my eight year-old's ereader. The chapter books he reads now can sometimes be finished in a matter of a couple hours so it's fantastic to be able to refuel him at no cost when he is in a voracious reading stage! My library has a limit of 5 ebooks out on a particular account at one time and there is also a hold limit (not sure what it is, only that I have reached it). When you finish a book, you can return it digitally. If you forget, it disappears from your device when your time is up. Easy peasy.
My first library ebook? Delia Ephron's Sister Mother Husband Dog: Etc. My current library ebook? Thanks to rave reviews on Goodreads from a grade school friend, I just started Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas. In the hold queue for? Want Not by Jonathan Miles, Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill, and This One is Mine by Maria Semple. Fingers crossed that they don't all become available at the same time.
Next adventure? Investigate digital audiobooks through the library. I can't imagine that I would give up my Audible subscription, but I'd like to be able to supplement as two audiobooks per month are often not enough.
Anyone else test drive the digital content available at your local public library?
When I first purchased a Kindle (foolishly, many years ago when one cost about 4x what it does now), I was delighted by the promise that most bestsellers would be available for $9.99 or less. Many years later, the savvy ebook reader with the Kindle, Nook, and Kobo apps on her phone and/or tablet can check daily deals on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo to find fantastic ebooks available for a limited time (usually one day or one month) for two or three dollars. This bargain ebook search is part of my morning routine.
Such discounts are great and do introduce readers to new books and authors. It's easy to gamble on an unknown or barely known quantity for $1.99. I admit though that I have now one-clicked my way into more $2 ebooks than I currently have interest in and time for reading. In fact, buying discounted ebooks is the new version of my old habit of buying hardbacks in the Barnes and Noble Bargain Book aisles. Unfortunately, I did the bulk of my bargain book buying in the years when I was moving apartments every one or two years. Nothing like moving box after box of heavy books that you haven't read but thought you might because they were only $5.99.
Though I've always been willing to spend money on books, I have also been a frequent user of the public library. When I lived in Chicago before the age of the ipod, I regularly scoured five different branches of the Chicago Public Library to find audiobooks on tape and CD to check out. While there, I made a habit of checking the "new books" shelf and was often pleasantly surprised to find at least one recent release that I would have paid for but could now borrow. The ability to order and hold books at public libraries makes it even easier to read desired books, especially if you possess patience.
I now have access to one of the most wonderful suburban public libraries imaginable: The Elmhurst Public Library. I've known for a couple of years that ebooks and digital audiobooks were available through the EPL, but sort of figured that it would be a technological challenge to download them and that the ebooks available would mostly be public domain titles that I can easily access elsewhere. WRONG. It took about five minutes on the library's website to read the tutorial and get started checking out ebooks. If you want a more recent release, you will have to place a hold and wait until it is your turn, which can take a while. Unless you are a great advance planner or get lucky, library ebooks are probably not the best choice for book club selections or required school reading. I personally don't mind the wait. I like knowing a good book will be coming to me sometime soon(ish) and it's sort of a happy surprise to get the email saying that your ebook title is available. Life's little pleasures, etc.
I have also been downloading children's titles to my eight year-old's ereader. The chapter books he reads now can sometimes be finished in a matter of a couple hours so it's fantastic to be able to refuel him at no cost when he is in a voracious reading stage! My library has a limit of 5 ebooks out on a particular account at one time and there is also a hold limit (not sure what it is, only that I have reached it). When you finish a book, you can return it digitally. If you forget, it disappears from your device when your time is up. Easy peasy.
My first library ebook? Delia Ephron's Sister Mother Husband Dog: Etc. My current library ebook? Thanks to rave reviews on Goodreads from a grade school friend, I just started Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas. In the hold queue for? Want Not by Jonathan Miles, Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill, and This One is Mine by Maria Semple. Fingers crossed that they don't all become available at the same time.
Next adventure? Investigate digital audiobooks through the library. I can't imagine that I would give up my Audible subscription, but I'd like to be able to supplement as two audiobooks per month are often not enough.
Anyone else test drive the digital content available at your local public library?
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