Welcome to the Lit Lounge, fellow book lovers! As we find ourselves in the midst of mid-July with summer in full gear, there’s nothing quite like traveling through books, especially those that exude the essence of summer. And what better way to escape than to spend some time on the beautiful island of Nantucket within the pages of Elin Hilderbrand’s Here’s To Us?
Originally released in 2016, Here’s To Us continues to hold up all these years later, drawing us into its heartfelt world of blended families, love, and the power of saying goodbye. So, let’s embark on this captivating journey and embrace the magic of a Nantucket summer! With each turn of the page, you’ll be transported to the sandy shores, feel the ocean breeze, and immerse yourself in the lives of the characters who are far more than just ink on paper. It’s like being there without the hassle of the ferry or the cost! So grab your favorite beach chair, a refreshing beverage, and prepare to get lost in the idyllic paradise of Nantucket.
Today, we’re immersing ourselves in this heartfelt tale that takes us on an emotional rollercoaster through the complexities of blended families, love, and the power of saying goodbye. Hilderbrand’s skillful storytelling and character development deserve a standing ovation. She effortlessly weaves together the lives of Deacon Thorpe and the three women he loved, along with their children, against the backdrop of Nantucket’s lazy summers. The exploration of family dynamics and the tangled web of emotions is honest and moving, leaving readers deeply connected to the characters.
The story of Here’s To Us struck a deeply personal chord with me, as I have experienced profound losses in the past two years. Saying goodbye to my mother, father, and the father of my children has been an emotional journey filled with complexities.
In her masterful storytelling, Hilderbrand beautifully captures the multidimensional nature of grief. Through the character Jess Nolan’s poignant words, “I think the best way to deal with grief is to just keep going. To keep living your life, even though it’s different now,” she eloquently depicts the essence of coping with loss. I wholeheartedly resonate with this sentiment. It serves as a compelling reminder that grief is a transformative process, and life persistently marches forward, requiring us to adapt to the changes it brings. This adaptation isn’t swift or effortless; it demands patience and a gradual healing process.
As we journey with the characters in the book, we witness the complexity of emotions they navigate, mirroring our own experiences. Hilderbrand’s portrayal of grief and its impact on relationships is raw and authentic, allowing us to find solace and understanding within the narrative. Amid sorrow, Here’s To Us delicately weaves threads of hope, reminding us that even in the face of loss, there is the potential for new beginnings and the promise of brighter days ahead. It is a story of resilience, love, and the enduring spirit that carries us through the darkest times.
Hilderbrand beautifully captures the ups and downs of family relationships, keeping readers hooked with an intense and emotionally resonant narrative. While some parts may be predictable, the book leaves a lasting impact on the reader’s heart.
I couldn’t help but notice how Hilderbrand uses the imagery of bicycles beautifully, representing a sense of freedom, possibility, and new beginnings. For me, bicycles have always screamed summertime – a reminder of carefree days spent riding my bike throughout the summer, basking in the freedom of childhood.
Throughout the story, bicycles play a significant role, often seen in the context of the three wives of Deacon Thorpe. They biked to explore the picturesque island of Nantucket, creating moments of connection and bonding. Just like the gentle breeze accompanying a bike ride on a sunny day, the spirit of these bicycles echoes the novel’s theme – embracing the joy of living, even amidst the complexities of blended families and saying goodbye.
As we delve deeper into Elin Hilderbrand’s world, we discover how these bicycles serve as a symbolic thread, weaving the characters’ lives together and reminding us of each new chapter’s endless possibilities. It’s yet another aspect of the story that adds to the overall essence of summertime and the magic that the season brings.
So, as we ride along with the characters through the pages of Here’s To Us, let’s savor those moments of freedom, relish in the exploration of new paths, and cherish the connections that bring us closer together – just like the bicycles do for the three wives on the enchanting island of Nantucket. Summer, love, and the joy of life intertwine seamlessly, creating an unforgettable journey that leaves us yearning for more.
Finally, let’s delve into the captivating portrayal of the house, ‘American Paradise,’ in Hilderbrand’s remarkable story. With an enchanting allure reminiscent of beloved classics like Rebecca and The Dutch House, this residence is elevated to the status of a character itself. The name exudes beauty, tranquility, and a world of endless possibilities. As I listened to the narrative, I couldn’t help but be entranced by the way Hilderbrand breathed life and soul into ‘American Paradise.’ Its presence within the story is like a vibrant heartbeat, reminding us of the rich tapestry of Nantucket’s history. Previously hailed as “the American Paradise” due to its breathtaking natural beauty and thriving whaling industry, Nantucket’s past echoes through the essence of this dwelling. This evocative name evokes a nostalgic longing for a simpler era and a future filled with inexplicable promise.
“It’s a home. And it’s not just a home; it’s a way of life. Our summertime happens here. This house is part of our past, it’s our present, it’ll be our future. It’s who we are.”
Elin Hilderbrand, Here’s To Us
Listening to audiobooks while working in the garden is an absolute delight. The masterful narration of Erin Bennet effortlessly brings the characters to life, making even the mundane task of weeding utterly enjoyable. With Bennet’s captivating performance, the emotions of the characters are conveyed flawlessly, immersing me completely in the intricate web of relationships in Nantucket. The combination of gardening and audiobooks is truly a winning one, transforming a tedious chore into a truly pleasurable experience. I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in this delightful audiobook journey.
Thank you for joining me at the Lit Lounge! I encourage you all to share your thoughts, comments, and recommendations for this novel. Let’s keep the bookish discussions alive and thriving. If you want to read my review of Elin Hilderbrand’s Here’s To Us, head over to Goodreads for this and other books and stories. As for my personal experience with Hilderbrand’s works, I’ve only read a few of her novels so far. I’d love to hear your recommendations on which of her books I should explore next! Happy reading, everyone!
Endnote: The opinions shared in the Lit Lounge articles and recommendations are solely my own. I do not receive any compensation for endorsing specific books or products. My passion is to encourage a love for reading and listening to books, and I genuinely share my thoughts to inspire fellow book lovers. Happy reading and listening! 📚🎧
Welcome to the Lit Lounge, fellow book enthusiasts! Despite the rain that seems to have taken up residence here in New Hampshire, I’m thrilled that you’ve joined me as we embark on a literary escape to sun-soaked destinations within the pages of our favorite summer-themed reads. So, grab your favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and let’s dive into a curated selection of books that will transport you to warm beaches, enchanting towns, and adventures that scream summer. Rain or shine, I’m excited to share these unforgettable reads that will make your literary journey an absolute delight.
Step into the world of captivating stories that will transport you to sun-soaked settings and immerse you in the magic of summer. With this handpicked selection of 4 and 5-star-rated reads, get ready to embark on unforgettable journeys and embrace the joy of summer reading. Whether you’re longing to wander the rugged coastal marshes of Where The Crawdads Sing or embark on a soul-searching pilgrimage in The Salt Path, these books offer a range of experiences that will make your summer all the more memorable. Join the unforgettable characters in Lessons In Chemistry and The Summer Book as they navigate love, self-discovery, and the season’s beauty. With these summer escapes, you’ll find yourself lost in pages that sparkle with the essence of sunlit adventures.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars [Read and reviewed October 2020]
I loved Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid. The story follows the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band, and it is an absolutely captivating read. The book’s unique format reminded me of Rolling Stone Magazine since, rather than being written in a traditional narrative style, the story is told through a series of interviews with the band members and other people in their lives. This format gives the story a sense of immediacy and intimacy that is hard to achieve in a traditional novel. The characters in this book are all so well-written and fully realized that they feel like real people. They have flaws and struggles and make mistakes, but they are also incredibly talented and passionate about their music. The relationships between the band members are complex and compelling, and the tension and drama that arise throughout the story kept me on the edge of my seat. So many times, I had to remind myself that the book is fiction. The audiobook version is particularly enjoyable, as each character is voiced by a different narrator, giving the interviews a truly immersive feel. The narrators bring their characters to life with their distinctive voices, and the music woven throughout the story enhances the experience. I highly recommend Daisy Jones and the Six to anyone who loves music, 1970s nostalgia, and complex character-driven stories. The audiobook is an especially great way to experience the story, with its immersive narration and captivating music.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars [Read and reviewed August 2021]
Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury is an absolute masterpiece that whisks readers away to the enchanting summer of 1928. As a devoted fan of Bradbury, this book holds a special place in my heart, immersing me in a world where nostalgia and imagination merge effortlessly. Bradbury’s unparalleled storytelling and lyrical prose immediately captivate. With vivid descriptions, he transports us to the summer of 1928, allowing us to experience its joys, sorrows, and wonders firsthand. The story showcases Bradbury’s versatility as a writer, celebrating youth, the passage of time, and the magic found in everyday moments. It resonates deeply, evoking emotions that linger long after the last page is turned. Immersed in the characters’ lives, particularly young Douglas Spaulding, we relish childhood innocence and enchantment. Bradbury explores profound themes of growth and mortality, reminding us to appreciate life’s fleeting moments. Dandelion Wine invites visitors to revisit its pages, discovering new layers of meaning with each reading. It’s a timeless exploration of the human experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars [Read and reviewed August 2022]
Those were the days! Want to spend part of your summer on Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket without having to spend a fortune? Reading Summer of ’69 by Elin Hilderbrand is just the ticket – no lines, no delays, no cancellations, no reservations, and a lot cheaper. The story is about a family on Nantucket, and one of the daughters has taken a summer job on neighboring Martha’s Vineyard. Hilderbrand’s intimate knowledge and experience from her time on Nantucket made it easy for her to set such a vivid scene. She weaves personal details of the time that authenticate the period and demonstrate how much times have changed. Summer of ’69 is an interesting historical fiction novel but an equally terrific beach read. Hilderbrand covers all the hot points from the civil and women’s rights movements to the war in Vietnam, the moon launch, Woodstock, and Chappaquiddick. It’s a multi-generational story told by multiple family members – a great way to see how the times affected everybody and let the reader know each character. I loved how Hilderbrand used the names of classic songs from sixties bands like Buffalo Springfield and Jefferson Airplane. Great book, and if they ever make a movie, the soundtrack will be fantastic! Now I am curious and think I will put her other book, Summer of ’79, on my TBR list. I listened to the audiobook and Erin Bennett does a great job with the narration. 13 hours, 34 minutes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars [Read and reviewed July 2022]
Like a wave that crashed onto the shore and pulled me out to sea, I was swept away by Raynor Winn’s The Salt Path in the first 20 pages and deeply immersed in their story. The book reads raw and rough, much like their 630-mile walk. Winn’s descriptions of the southwest coast path in England make me want to experience the natural, wild beauty for myself. But then I remember what it’s like to go camping for long periods and think better of it. Wild camping may sound exciting, but as Ray explains, it has many drawbacks. She does not romanticize their situation; instead, she captures the realism of it, which can make some people uncomfortable. They had a home, their health, and the security of being able to make a living – all gone in the blink of an eye. It’s a story about life and how not paying attention to the little details can make all the difference in the world. However, it’s also about demonstrating that no matter how hard you get knocked down that it’s best to get back up and keep on moving. It’s a unique story about homelessness and how a couple of people who had everything going against them managed to keep going despite the odds. Great adventure read.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars [Read and reviewed July 2021]
The Summer Book by Tove Jansson is the best summer read! It’s a literary gem that captivates readers with its timeless portrayal of the tender bond between generations and the profound connections we forge with nature. This enchanting novel has left an indelible impression on me, and I can already sense that it will be a cherished companion on my bookshelf, beckoning me to return to its pages time and time again. At the heart of the story lies the priceless relationship between a young girl named Sophia and her grandmother. Jansson weaves a tapestry of emotions, effortlessly capturing the subtle nuances of their interactions. Their exchanges are filled with wisdom, laughter, and shared experiences, creating a portrait of love and understanding that resonates with readers of all ages. Through Sophia and her grandmother, Jansson explores the intricate dynamics within families, leaving us with a renewed appreciation for the connections that shape our lives. Jansson’s prose is magical and transports us to the idyllic island where Sophia and her grandmother reside. She paints a breathtaking picture of their surroundings with vivid and evocative descriptions. As I dove deeper into the story, I found myself walking alongside them, feeling the salty breeze against my skin and marveling at the beauty that enveloped them. Jansson’s ability to bring the island to life is simply awe-inspiring, making it an integral part of the narrative and infusing it with a soul of its own. One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in Jansson’s ability to infuse her reflections about people, relationships, and our connection to nature with a timelessness that transcends generations. The themes explored in The Summer Book are as relevant today as when the novel was first published. Jansson’s insights serve as gentle reminders of the profound impact our surroundings have on our well-being and the importance of cherishing the relationships that shape our lives. Through Sophia and her grandmother, Jansson invites us to reflect upon our own lives and find solace in the simple joys of nature. The Summer Book is a multilayered masterpiece that reveals new depths with each reading. Its charm lies in its ability to entertain, inspire, and provoke introspection simultaneously. As I turned the final page, I was left with a sense of awe and wonder that only a truly remarkable book can elicit. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and poignant tale that reminds us of the beauty found within the simplicity of life. Tove Jansson’s The Summer Book is a beautifully written work of art that deserves nothing short of five stars. Its exploration of the relationship between the grandmother and Sophia is tender and priceless, while the vivid descriptions of the island transport us to a world of unparalleled beauty. Jansson’s timeless reflections on people, relationships, and our connection to nature make this book a must-read for those seeking a captivating and thought-provoking experience. Prepare to be enchanted and discover a literary treasure that will find a permanent place in your heart and your bookshelf.
Lessons In Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is a terrific novel that exceeded all my expectations. Approaching it cautiously due to past disappointments, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it truly deserves the accolades it has received. The story follows the determined journey of Elizabeth Zott, a single woman in a man’s world during a transformative era. Garmus skillfully balances the intense themes of the narrative with her infectious wit and humor, creating an engaging and enjoyable reading experience. Elizabeth’s trials resonated deeply with me as I found echoes of her struggles in our modern society. Garmus’s portrayal of her challenges felt authentic and relatable, drawing me further into the story. I was particularly drawn to the author’s vivid descriptions of the joys and tribulations of life with a newborn, which had me chuckling out loud. Throughout the novel, Garmus weaves a cast of endearing characters who become like a second family. As I bid farewell to Elizabeth, Mad, Harriet, and the others, a pang of sadness lingers as if parting from dear friends. Garmus’s ability to create such memorable and beloved characters is a testament to her writing skill. Lessons In Chemistry is a captivating and insightful read that deserves the highest praise. Its compelling storyline, well-rounded characters, and the perfect balance of depth and humor earned it a solid 4.5 stars in my book, rounded up to 5 stars.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars [Read and reviewed June 2020]
Amazing! Where the Crawdads Sing, the debut novel by Delia Owens, is a mesmerizing tale that effortlessly transports readers into a world of intersecting lives and the enchanting beauty of the natural world. Narrated by Cassandra Campbell in a captivating audio edition that spans 12 hours and 12 minutes, this story unfolds with grace, immersing the listener in the vivid landscapes of Barkley Cove, North Carolina, and the haunting marshlands where Kya Clark, the enigmatic “Marsh Girl,” resides. From the first moment, Owens’s storytelling prowess grips the reader, and through Campbell’s eloquent narration, Kya’s world comes alive with remarkable depth. Kya’s journey, shaped by years of isolation, resonates profoundly as she navigates a world she learned from the untamed wilderness. The author’s background as a zoologist is evident in her lyrical descriptions of the marsh, its creatures, and the delicate interplay between nature and the human spirit. The atmospheric descriptions of the marshlands and the creatures that inhabit them provide a seamless backdrop to Kya’s captivating narrative. Owens’s ability to seamlessly intertwine the raw beauty of nature with Kya’s struggles and triumphs creates a truly immersive experience for the listener. One cannot help but marvel at the ecosystem’s intricacies that nurtured and protected Kya when the human world failed her. Through her skillful storytelling, Owens explores the complexities of love and the inherent dichotomy found in the natural world. Kya’s understanding of the ruthless nature of female insects becomes a poignant metaphor for her experiences with relationships. These subtle parallels draw readers deeper into Kya’s psyche, enhancing the emotional resonance of her story and leaving a lasting impression. Where the Crawdads Sing, is an extraordinary literary journey that seamlessly blends a coming-of-age story with the raw power of nature. Delia Owens’s background as a zoologist shines through in her exquisite descriptions, while Cassandra Campbell’s narration brings Kya’s world to life in the audio edition. This 5-star novel is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and our profound connection to the natural world. Prepare to be swept away by this enchanting tale of isolation, self-discovery, and the enduring power of love.
Thank you for joining us in the Lit Lounge! I hope these summer reads have sparked your imagination, transported you to sun-soaked destinations, and ignited your love for the written word. As we reluctantly bid farewell to this selection of books that captured the essence of summer, remember the words of Ray Bradbury in Dandelion Wine: “Summer, after all, is a time when wonderful things can happen to quiet people.” Let’s keep the spirit of summer alive and stay tuned for more seasonal-themed selections that will transport us to different worlds and evoke the magic of each season. In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite summer reads or suggest books that have captured the season’s essence. Let’s celebrate the joy of reading and the magic of every season. Cheers to many more literary adventures to come!
Welcome to The Lit Lounge, a place where the enchanting world of literature comes alive and the wonders of storytelling unfold. In this installment, we delve into the captivating realm of Bonnie Garmus’ debut novel, Lessons In Chemistry. With its current prominent position in the top ten of the Amazon Best Sellers List and nominations in two esteemed categories for the 2022 Goodreads Awards, this historical fiction gem demanded our attention from the very beginning.
Join me as we embark on an extraordinary journey alongside Elizabeth Zott, a resilient single woman navigating the challenges of a male-dominated society in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Lessons In Chemistry is an irresistible page-turner, seamlessly blending wit, humor, and profound themes. So, grab your favorite drink, find a cozy spot, and prepare to discover your next best read. Perhaps we’ll even witness the magic of this captivating story being adapted into a series on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon, or Apple. I hope so.
Lessons In Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus truly lives up to its accolades. As a reader who has been deceived by false promises in the past, I approached this book with cautious optimism. However, upon finishing the last page, I found myself wholeheartedly voting for it in both categories it was nominated for. This delightful story follows the journey of Elizabeth Zott, a single woman determined to make her mark in a man’s world during a transformative era. Garmus expertly balances the intense themes integral to the storyline with her infectious wit and humor, making for a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience. I found myself engrossed in Elizabeth’s trials, touched by the resonance of her struggles in our modern world. The author’s skillful descriptions, particularly of the joys and challenges of life with a newborn, had me laughing out loud. It is with a touch of sadness that I bid farewell to Elizabeth, Mad, Harriet, and the rest of their endearing “family,” for they have become a part of my literary world. Lessons In Chemistry is deserving of a solid 4.5 stars, which I wholeheartedly round up to a resounding 5 stars.
Rowing is almost exactly like raising kids. Both require patience, endurance, strength, and commitment. And neither allow us to see where we’re going—only where we’ve been.
Lessons in Chemistry – Bonnie Garmus
As I reluctantly closed the final chapter of Lessons In Chemistry, I was filled with a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. Bonnie Garmus has masterfully crafted a tale that transcends time, reminding us that despite our progress, certain struggles persist. Elizabeth Zott’s journey resonates profoundly, and Garmus’s ability to infuse the narrative with gravity and levity breathes life into each page. The author’s spot-on descriptions of life with a newborn had me chuckling in recognition, reminding me that some things never change. The story not only entertain but also holds a mirror up to our own lives, inviting us to reflect on the universal experiences we all share. With its captivating narrative, relatable characters, and timeless messages, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking an unforgettable literary adventure. So, my fellow bookworms, grab a copy, find a cozy nook, and allow yourself to be swept away by the magic that awaits within the pages of Lessons In Chemistry.
Your days are numbered. Use them to throw open the windows of your soul to the sun,
Lessons in Chemistry – Bonnie Garmus
Thank you for joining me in The Lit Lounge, where we celebrate the power of storytelling. I hope this exploration into Lessons In Chemistry has sparked your curiosity and ignited your passion for reading. Remember, there are countless worlds to discover and stories to unravel, waiting to transport us to places beyond our imagination. Until our next literary rendezvous, keep turning those pages and let the magic of books continue to illuminate your path. Happy reading!
It’s hard to believe it’s March already. The last month has been somewhat of a blur to me. A week into the month, my son called to tell me that he hurt his knee while sitting on his air mattress which has been doubling for a couch while he waits for the couch he ordered in December to arrive. The good news is that we learned just yesterday that it is scheduled for delivery the last Friday of this month. Finally.
Me and Mom
The second week of the month started with my mother experiencing her second stroke in 5 months – this stroke ultimately took her life 5 days later. Since then we have said our goodbyes to her as a family graveside and with extended friends and extended family via a zoom memorial. I miss my long conversations with her and now continue to grieve. It will take some time but life goes on.
I have been reminded of that fact this last week as I have been consumed with dealing with my son’s knee surgery and having to care for him during his recovery. My mother always said ‘the job of a parent isn’t ever really fully done.’ She was always there for me when I needed her and I will always be there for my kids when and if they need my help. In the last 7 days, I have averaged 3.4 miles of walking and 10 flights of stairs daily in my own house simply running around, going up and down the stairs (the house unfortunately is not set up with a first floor bedroom). My left knee hurts a little bit.
I find listening to my books to be such a relief. It’s my me-time. I have been downloading my tax forms and filing stuff from last year that never got filed in 2020. I haven’t felt very artistic lately but I am trying to relax and get back into the routine of drawing.
I listened to 2 books in February, the first was a title I had in my library for a while and as part of my resolution to read the older titles in my library and stop accumulating more books – which I still do anyway – I finally tackled it. I am so glad I did too! Beneath a Scarlet Sky is a phenomenal story by Mark T. Sullivan. The audiobook which I listened to is narrated by Will Damron and runs 17 hours and 43 minutes and is just amazing! Wow! I found this to be a fascinating book.
“It all made Pino realize that the earth did not know war, that nature would go on no matter what horror one man might inflict on another. Nature didn’t care a bit about men and their need to kill and conquer.
Mark T. Sullivan, Beneath a Scarlet Sky
The story is about the remarkable life of Pino Lello, a young boy from Italy during WWII. I was on the edge of my seat plenty of times throughout the story. I highly recommend this read to anyone who is interested in history and adventures. 5 Stars.
I decided to switch gears afterwards and listened to another Taylor Jenkins Reid novel – The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. I found this book to drag in areas, granted that’s a lot of husbands to go through. Overall the plot is interesting and Evelyn Hugo character who I found to be very deep and complex. However, the character of Monique annoyed me bit. She seemed a bit whiny at times and I don’t like hanging out with whiny people and I have begun to notice I don’t like books as much that feature whiny protagonists. The book is narrated by Alma Cuervo, Julia Whelan and Robin Miles and runs 12 hours and 10 minutes. 3.5 Stars.
I am able to focus so much better on things and block out all the external clutter of the world which has been great lately. I continue to listen to The Word of Promise Audio Book, New King James Version which is narrated by Michael York, Jason Alexander, Joan Allen, Richard Dreyfus, Louis Gossett, Malcolm McDowell Jr., Gary Sinese, Marisa Tomei and Stacy Keach. This behemoth runs 98 hours and 1 minute. I’m only 2 hours 26 minutes into it so far but I have enjoyed listening to it. I have only read parts of the Bible and it is one of my resolutions to complete.
I began the March with A Burning: A Novel by Megha Majumdar. A classmate of mine who now lives in Australia recommended the book. The audiobook runs only 7 hours and 22 minutes and is narrated by Vikas Adam, Priya Ayyar, Deepti Gupta, Soneela Nankani, Neil Shah and Ulka Simone Monhanty who all take on the voices of the various characters features in this story about class, corruption, justice and the individual roads fated in life.
I found this to be an interesting glimpse into a different culture. The characters are unique and captivating – yet, all somewhat relatable despite living in a country where societal norms differ greatly from those in the western cultures. I felt frustrated for Jivan and Lovely and what they endure as women in India.
Many years ago I would have been asking why is this happening? But now I am knowing that there is no use in asking these questions. In life, many things happen for no reason at all.
Megha Majumdar, A Burning: A Novel
I thoroughly enjoyed the The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey. Since finishing it, there are descriptive scenes which have stayed with me and I thought about repeatedly. I love old fairy tales and I love the idea of taking a children’s story and turning it into a novel. I loved the passages about the landscape and I found the characters to be as deep and full as the Alaskan snows they endured. I highly recommend this book to readers who are interested in adventures in the Alaskan wilderness with a touch of old fashioned fairy tale weaved into a modern day story of love and survival. 4 stars.
Currently I have started to listen to The Garden of Evening Mists by Tang Twan Eng, a recommendation from my cousin who first heard about the book from my Aunt. My cousin raved about it and thought I would enjoy since I love nature and gardening so much. I’ll let you know what I think about it next time.
Happy Reading – “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies . . . The man who never reads lives only one.” – George R.R. Martin
Hi! I’m Xine and welcome to my Audiobook Club. Since we are all practicing social distancing, I’ve decided to start an online Audiobook Club. I hope you join me as we are all entering this new world of social distancing, but just because we need to distance ourselves doesn’t mean we can’t still all have to be isolated. We can all keep up an online conversation one way or another. So with that, once again welcome to Xine’s Audiobook Club. I’m Xine and this is what I’ve been listing to this month.
It’s been a weird month so far and my book selections this month seem to mimicking that. An eclectic selection I started the month listening to Carsick – John Waters Hitchhikes across America. I’m currently on chapter 16, 4 hours 56 minutes remaining of this 8 hour, 8 minute journey. So I’m over halfway there. I started listening to Carsick because the description sounded interesting and different from my usual picks and I was up for something different. I know who John Waters is but haven’t seen any of his movies but I’ve heard of them.
I was also waiting for the new Reese Witherspoon’s Book of the Month Club selection to be released. I had enjoyed listening to the February book, The Scent Keeper by Erica Bauermeister and narrated by Gabra Zackman. I started following the book club since I sometimes get overwhelmed by all the books and don’t know what to listen to so having someone else choose is nice. I end up listening to titles I, myself, never would have selected and a usually pleasantly surprised but not aways.
I always end up listening to more than one book at a time, I like to mix up the rotation with a biography or memoir, a novel of fiction, perhaps some comedy essays or short stories. I had started listening to George Carlin Reads to You, but found myself no longer amused by some of the comedian’s once funny observations about life. In today’s world it’s just not so funny right now. Maybe I’m just getting old. So I stopped listening and exchanged the title for a credit. Did you know you can do that on Audible? You can exchange your titles back at any time, even after you have listened to them completely. You get the option of exchanging it for another title right away or receiving a credit back. I listen to so many more books since discovering this little seemingly hidden feature which is the only logical reason as to why they do this. I say hidden only because I accidentally discovered it on iPhone and when I looked on my desktop it doesn’t seem to be an option.
This month’s Reese’s Book Club selection is The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward and narrated by Theresa Plummer. It looks to be about family relationships, something I can certainly relate to. I’m currently only on chapter 4 and just been introduced to all the characters and their lives.and still have 7 hours and 9 minutes remaining in this 8 hr and 3 minute book. So I have much to look forward to.
Finally, I have selected Second Nature: A Gardener’s Education by Michael Pollan since I am a gardener and have read another titles by Pollan, The Omnivore’s Dilemma and enjoyed it. I hadn’t known about this book when I looked up titles under his name in the the Audible library and it intrigued me. Plus it’s a nice change of pace from whatever wild tale Waters’ is spinning and from just trying to figure out who is who of The Jetsetters.
These days, I find I can only take so much of listening to the news, although that’s important to stay up-to-date on what’s going on, particularly with the Covid-19 pandemic gripping our world right now. As I work on other things, whether it be on the computer, cleaning the house, folding the laundry, even while outside in my garden with my headphones on – I can escape to another world even if it’s only for a few hours.
Stay safe, and healthy everyone!
End Note: You may have noticed by now that I have included some links to the books and or audiobooks when and where I could to make things easy for anyone who may be interested in checkin any of these titles out. In the interest of transparency I am part of the Amazon affiliate program. So if you were to click on the link and actually purchase something – I would get a small commission for the referral. Just wanted you to know.
