august: read, currently reading, to-read

So I've said this before, but I love to read.

I like to joke that one of my favorite things is reading and eating at the same time-- the husband calls it "reating." (I know, he's a clever one.)

I shared few reads in May and I thought it was high time for me to share some books again.

 

>> The Last Camelia Really easy-to-read, intriguing book about -- get this -- flower thieves. It takes place in England and goes back between the 1940s and present day. I enjoyed it quite a bit. 

>> A Beautiful Offering Heather suggested this book to me, and one chapter in, I am really enjoying it.

>> Whistling Through the Graveyard About a sassy nine-year-old running away and experiencing some big life-changing things in 1963 Mississippi. I'm almost done with it and liked it a lot.

>> 7 I've been wanting to read this book by Jen Hatmaker for quite some time about getting rid of excess in life. I finally got a copy from the library and will start it soon!

>> The Fault In Our Stars I think this is going to be a movie or something but I feel like it's one of those books that's just been everywhere. I'm number, like billion, on the library wait list, so I gave in and bought it. (Just $3.99 on Kindle!)

>> Bread & Wine I love food. I love wine. I love Shauna Niequist books. What could be better than all three in one package?

What are you reading right now? Do you like hearing what I'm currently diving into-- I think it might be fun to share these a little more often. :)

xo, erika

just read, reading and reading next

It's no secret that I love to read.

My long commute to work-- 30 minutes to go 7 miles, arghh-- makes good time for reading and I've already devoured a few books this spring.

 

>> Fall of Giants by Ken Follet // I loved the Pillars of the Earth series by this author and this is his other series. It's about World War I and was a little too historical for me at points, but overall enjoyable. 

>> Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg // I read this for work and honestly found it fascinating. There's a lot out there against Sandberg's book as well as arguments for it. While I don't think I would ever want her life, there's a lot of truth in how women conduct themselves (either in corporate America or anywhere): apologizing too often, not asking for help or delegating, not trusting or helping other women (the mommy wars) and thinking less of their capabilities. It's these things that I'll take from her book-- not necessarily her lifestyle. (read this interview with her in Time to get an idea)

>> A Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp // I was prepared to love this book because I expected it to be in the same vein as Shauna Niequist (who I adore). I'm not sure how I feel about it; I don't love Voscamp's wordy descriptions and I have yet to be bowled over by her statements... but I'm giving it time. (I'm only a few chapters in.)

>> Business Brilliant by Lewis Schiff // Look Mom, I'm reading it! My mother bought this for me and I'm reading it and preparing to be a brilliant business-lady. Well, I'm not sure about that, but it's interesting so far. 

>> Where'd You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple // Another one from Mom, who implores me to read it because it's poignant and hilarious. I'm not so sure as I heard it really disses Seattle... and I have a hard time with anyone but me making fun of my seriously over-priced, traffic-ridden, pretentious city. ;) But anyway, I'm sure it will be a fun read. 

What are you reading lately? 

xo, erika

sponsor spotlight & giveaway with I Believe In Story

I'll admit it-- I'm a bookworm. I love love love to read and devour nearly any sort of book, which is why I'm excited to introduce one of my lovely sponsors Maria!

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Hi, everyone! My name is Maria and I blog over at I Believe In Story, where I post musings about all types of literature. Erika asked me to write a post with a few book recommendations. I hope these titles will inspire you to start making your own to-read list for the new year! Tweet me and let me know what books you plan to read this year.

for the fairytale fan.

1. MIRROR MIRROR by Gregory Maguire

A story that explores the classic tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  Maguire's writing is absolutely beautiful.  You'll find yourself reading with a highlighter or a pen nearby, making sure you document all of the passages that speak directly to you.  For example: "We make of the hollow world a fuller, messier, prettier place, but all our inventions can't create the one thing we require: to deserve any fond attention we might accidentally receive, to receive any fond attention we don't in the course of things deserve."

for the art fan.

2. THE LADY AND THE UNICORN by Tracy Chevalier

A story based on the background behind six tapestries woven in the late 15th century.  Chevalier has created a fictional story about the people who were connected to the creation of the tapestry, from the rich man who commissions the piece to the family who work day and night to finish weaving before the project's deadline.  "Two families, two cities, one rogue go-between, and a set of gorgeous tapestries."

for the memoir fan.

3. LOOSE END by Ivan E. Coyote

A collection of short stories that focus on urban life in the city of Vancouver, British Columbia.  Coyote writes about the impact of modern society on the diverse Canadians that live around her.  A storyteller by trade, Coyote's craft and mastery over words will have you laughing and crying within a span of two pages.  The stories are short and sweet, commenting on the gender binaries we place upon ourselves and others.

for the classics fan.

4. THE AWAKENING by Kate Chopin

An often ignored American classic, The Awakening is about Edna Pontellier, a woman who struggles with her personal views about femininity and motherhood and the views of American society at the turn-of-the-century.  The book focuses on the psychology of Edna and her literal "awakening" from the expectations that have been placed upon her.

for the young adult fan.

5. THIS DARK ENDEAVOUR by Kenneth Oppel

Oppel's YA novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein's apprenticeship as he discovers the world of alchemy and does everything possible to save his brother from death.  This book has just the right amount of fantasy to keep you on the edge of your seat, but the adventure is incredibly realistic.  The main character’s desire for power is something all readers will relate to - even if they don’t want to admit it.

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Maria is generously offering a rouge & whimsy reader a book of their choice from this list!

 

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