Monday, August 13, 2007

Books

Since Katie gave me a literary shout-out today, I figured I should list some of the books I've read recently:

I Am a Mother by Jane Clayson Johnson. Recommended by NieNie, not recommended by Sister B, whom it reminded of badly applied makeup. Nevertheless, gave it a shot. First third, very good. Middle third, okay. Final third, meh.

On Agate Hill by Lee Smith. Had my doubts when I checked this out from the library. Boring title, boring cover. It was on the library's list of top books of 2006, though. I really liked this book, found it quite enjoyable. Despite my Yankee upbringing, I am fascinated by stories of the Reconstruction South. The story of one woman's life is told by different characters, via different literary techniques (a diary, a series of letters, an affidavit, etc.) and is very well done.

Blue Moon Rising by Simon Green. A prince on a quest to slay a dragon. Yeah, sounds completely lame. And yet it's very fun and satisfying.

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Adichie. Also on my library's Top Books of 2006 list. SOOOOO good. Highly recommended. Fascinating glimpse into life in Nigeria during its civil war in the 1960s. Heavy, but so readable.

2 comments:

Katie said...

Right now I'm reading a book called "Into the Woods" by (I can't remember his first name) Bryson. It's about this guy who hikes the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Main.

Quick read, kind of funny, kind of preachy about environmental conservation. I like it because it is totally different from anything that I would pick out for myself. The ear doctor read it first and now I'm reading it.

One really cool thing about getting married is that I just inherited a bunch of his books that I've never read so now I don't have to go to the book store for a long time. Cool.

Liz said...

Katie do you mean Bill Bryson? A Walk in the Woods?

What a great read!

Also, thanks for the recommendations. More books to my to-read pile!