Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Books I Like

Wow, that's about the most boring title ever, isn't it? I need some help to figure out a better one - somebody creative, please come to my rescue!

I read a lot. I have, ever since I was little. I remember coming home from the library in elementary school with stacks of books in my arms. I'd immediately get to work reading them that night, and would usually finish an entire stack of 10-15 books before they were due two weeks later.

Of course, those consisted mainly of Babysitter's Club and Sweet Valley Twins books. My taste has matured somewhat since then, but there is still nothing better for me than putting on some sweats, heating up a mug of hot chocolate, and curling up with a good book.

I would like to spotlight some of the books I've read here on the blog. I'm thinking maybe once a week, or once every other week, since I'm no longer reading 10 books in one week like I did when I was little! We'll see what people's interest level is...so let me know!

The first book I want to spotlight is The Poisonwood Bible, by Barbara Kingsolver.

I started this a couple months ago, and read the entire thing in a few days. It's a story about a family who goes to Congo as missionaries, and the resulting story of each of the parents and four daughters. Each family member takes turns telling the story through different chapters.

What I like about this book:

- A very interesting and engaging plot, with real characters

- Gave me a lot to think about in terms of my faith, what it looks like to others, and how to best reach others

- Taught me more about Congo and the people over there, as well as the political climate over there during the twentieth century

What I didn't like:

- It got a little confusing switching around between family member's perspectives, and it also takes jumps in time that can be a little disorienting for the reader.

That's it! I loved it! I would encourage everyone to check it out.

5 comments:

Julie said...

1. Remember your t-shirt that said "I'm a bear - without a book" but Mom always made you tuck it in so that it just said "I'm a bear"? There's a post title for you.

2. I just read a bunch of Gary Schmidt books (seeing as he's my professor) - but check out Wednesday Wars and Trouble. I think those are my two favorites, and they're quick reads because they're children's lit.

3. did you read any of the David Sedaris book I sent you?

Anonymous said...

I'm reading the Camel Club right now, reminds me of one of those Harrison Ford movies. not done yet but so far it's good!

Kristi said...

I've started reading the David Sedaris one - so far, so good although the first chapter really jolted me - I thought it was autobiographical. Once I realized it was fiction, I was good to go.

I could maybe use "I'm A Bear Without a Book" Hmmm...

I'll have to check out the Camel Club too! I'll add it to my list.

Leah said...

...and another thing you liked about it is that one of the characters is named Leah! Yea!

I read that book in high school. I don't remember much, but I think I liked it. :)

Kristina--Therapy Tree said...

I Love this book as well! I saw your post a few up from mine on the dairy free recipe contest...have to try that watermelon sorbet now!