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What books did you get from the library, bookstore or online ~ 2021
This sounds good, Julie. If i recall correctly, Alias read it and liked it.
My aunt emailed me to recommend a book she just finished, In the Distance, a novel mostly set in 1850s US, written by Hernan Diaz. She doesn’t often recommend books, so i hopped right on it. Fortunately my e-library had a copy and i’m already hooked. The main character knows no English and just goes with the flow as people attach to him. Starting in San Francisco, his goal is to find his brother in NYC. As he is broke, it will takes months, if not years.
Picked this up from the library after another library book Club member recommended it
The Heartwood Hotel by Kerry McGinnis
madrano wrote: "My aunt emailed me to recommend a book she just finished, In the Distance, a novel mostly set in 1850s US, written by Hernan Diaz. She doesn’t often recommend books,..."1850s sounds interesting - great it's working out so well for you!
Sandy, that McGinnis novel sounds good. Set in Australia is a big bonus. I look forward to your review.Thanks, John, for the comment. I’m still savoring the story and travels of Hawk.
madrano wrote: "My aunt emailed me to recommend a book she just finished, In the Distance, a novel mostly set in 1850s US, written by Hernan Diaz. She doesn’t often recommend books,..."How lovely that you have bookish family members.
Very few people like to read the types of books I do, if they read at all. It's why I cherish all of you ! 💚
I hear ya, Alias. This aunt has only suggested books to me twice but both have been worthwhile. She appears not to read nonfiction, sad for me.
I don't read much mainstream stuff either, so appreciate hearing from a variety of readers!
I just downloaded from the library
The Miracle of Mindfulness: An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat HanhThich Nhat Hanh is a Vietnamese Buddhist monk. He's published more than a hundred books. I've read and enjoyed the few books I've read by him. Therefore, I decided to get this one as I have been trying, without much success, to restart my nascent meditation practice.
I'm also reading
The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels by Jon Meacham. So far the book isn't exactly what I was expecting. I think it may be the type of book one needs to read slowly and contemplate the voluminous quotes from historical figures that it contains. So far the book is more about the idea of democracy and not a linear story line. I decided with this type of book, for me, it may be best to not listen to the audio. So I am now reading the eBook. At times I may use both at the same time. I'll see as things progress. With the audio I found the lack of a story line and the sometimes flowery language was causing my mind to zone out at times. Which I should note is more a reflection on me and the issues I have with audio books and not the book itself.
Two vastly different topics, Alias. At least you won’t get them confused as you read. Both sound like topics you’ve enjoyed reading in the past, which probably helps.
Upthread i mentioned reading Hernan Diaz’s In the Distance, a western, of sorts. A Swedish teen accidentally arrives in San Francisco, believing he was headed to New York, where his brother is. Speaking very, very little English, he decides to walk to NYC.The Bildungsroman has readers learning how he learns skills, including medicine, the most useful for him. The story also explores characters he meets, evil, myth and loneliness. The writing is good and the story mythic.
Then i read a western mystery, The Blessing Way, first in a series by Tony Hillerman. I liked it and the facts shared about various Navajo branches. It’s set in Arizona and New Mexico’s northern land. While they are contemporary stories, not really from today, so no cell phones, for instance. This first was set in 1970, for instance.
madrano wrote: "Upthread i mentioned reading Hernan Diaz’s In the Distance, a western, of sorts. A Swedish teen accidentally arrives in San Francisco, believing he was headed to New..."Sounds like you are on a western theme kick deb.
Both books sound interesting. I know Tony Hillerman's name as he is a best selling author. However, I haven't read any of his books yet. I see that In the Distance was a Pulitzer finalist.
I suppose it’s being in NM that is leading me to the westerns.To balance that, my next book is The Laughing Policeman, 4th in a series of mysteries written by Maj Sjöwall and Per Wahlöö.
On a strong recommendation, I purchased (an audio) copy of Good Behaviour by Molly Keane. Hoping to get to it soon(ish), but thought I'd mention it here.
I hope the novel lives up to the recommendation, John. I’ve not heard of it or the author, although her life sounds challenging.
John wrote: "On a strong recommendation, I purchased (an audio) copy of Good Behaviour by Molly Keane. Hoping to get to it soon(ish), but thought I'd mention it here."The story sounds interesting, John. I hope it lives up to the recommendation.
I'm not familiar with the narrator, Aoife McMahon. I took a quick listen on Amazon and liked it.
John wrote: "A while back I purchased this audiobook also read by McMahon: An Irish Nature Year by Jane Powers."I love the accent ! Very pretty book cover, too.
The Powers book sounds like a daily gift. Thanks for the title, John.
I had a nostalgic trip into the Central Queensland outback with
The Heartwood Hotel by Kerry McGinnis https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
------ The Unbroken Thread: Discovering the Wisdom of Tradition in an Age of Chaos
by Sohrab Ahmari
What it's about: the value of religious traditions and rituals in a complex, technologically advanced society.
Why you might like it: Author Sohrab Ahmari grounds his arguments in texts from different centuries, religions, and cultures, from Confucius to Thomas Aquinas to Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel.
Is it for you? Some readers might object to Ahmari's conclusions about the effects of secularism, while others may be uneasy with his role as an editor for The New York Post.
------ Reopening Muslim Minds: A Return to Reason, Freedom, and Tolerance
by Mustafa Akyol
What it is: a well-researched survey of Islamic intellectualism which argues that conservative orthodoxy is a recent phenomenon in the religion's history, based more in political circumstances than anything inherent to the faith itself.
Who it's for: readers looking for a scholarly approach to the topic; readers familiar with the basic tenets of Islam, as author Mustafa Akyo explores key figures and complex aspects of Islamic history that may be unfamiliar to the general reader.
------ Why Do I Feel Like This? Understand Your Difficult Emotions and Find Grace to Move...
by Peace Amadi
What it's about: the importance of learning to manage negative emotions and common avoidance tactics that can get in the way, especially in Christian spaces.
Read it for: the affirmative and reassuring tone; the use of both scriptural and psychological concepts; and the practical suggestions that make emotional growth more approachable.
About the author: Dr. Peace Amadi is a psychology professor at Hope International University and co-founder of abuse recovery nonprofit The Ruby Project.
----- The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth
by Beth Allison Barr
What it is: an impassioned and thought-provoking exploration of the biblical and cultural foundations of the concept of "biblical womanhood," and author Beth Allison Barr's experiences with the fallout of questioning the established order as a youth minister.
Why you might like it: Barr's arguments effectively combine well-researched analysis of scripture with personal reflections from her own journey through making sense of this complex, polemical topic.
------ Heartwood: The Art of Living with the End in Mind
by Barbara Becker
What it's about: In this candid and inspiring memoir, interfaith minister Barbara Becker reflects on how the premature death of a childhood friend profoundly affected her outlook on mortality and what it means to truly live.
Read it for: especially moving chapters, such as those that recount the end of Becker's mother's life or that focus on acknowledging losses which lack established mourning traditions, like suffering a miscarriage or entering hospice.
You might also like: Other candid and moving memoirs that reflect on the line between life and death, like Stardust to Stardust by Erik Olin Wright and The Long Goodbye by Meghan O'Rourke.
------ United States of Grace: A Memoir of Homelessness, Addiction, Incarceration...
by Lenny Duncan
About the author: Social justice advocate and Lutheran pastor Lenny Duncan is the co-host of The Jesus Jawn podcast and is best known for his first book Dear Church.
What it is: a frank and compelling story of Duncan's rocky start in life, work in ministry, and how the two intersect with issues like white supremacy, mass incarceration, and the inclusion of LGBTQ people in the church and wider society.
Want a taste? “There seems to be some force in the universe -- I call it Grace or God, but whatever it is for you is cool with me -- that is highly interested in saving our collective asses.”
------ Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair
by Duke L. Kwon and Gregory Thompson
What it's about: the Christian case for reparations to Black Americans for the social, economic, and cultural legacy of slavery and the continued effects of white supremacy in the United States.
Why you might like it: The thoughtful approach and persuasive arguments tackling this large, complicated topic are accompanied by scriptural justifications and concrete, workable recommendations for churches and people of faith to approach the issue.
For fans of: The Color of Compromise by Jemar Tisby.
----- Bamboozled By Jesus: How God Tricked Me into the Life of My Dreams
by Yvonne Orji
What it is: the upbeat and witty memoir of actor and stand-up comedian Yvoonne Orij, with reflections on her career and her Christian faith.
Read it for: Orji's engaging writing style and grounded approach to service, life, and the lessons to be learned through surviving adversity.
Reviewers say: "Orji’s spirited biblical interpretations and boundless enthusiasm will appeal to her fans and newcomers alike" (Publishers Weekly).
----- Spirit Tech: The Brave New World of Consciousness Hacking and Enlightenment...
by Wesley J. Wildman PhD and Kate J. Stockly, PhD
What it's about: the intersection of spirituality and emerging technology and how the latter might shape the future of faith.
Why you might like it: the accessible writing and thought-provoking tone make for an engaging read for both science enthusiasts and religious believers, and everyone who fits both of those descriptions.
Don't miss: the discussion of tools as an element of religious experience from ancient times, including objects like prayer beads and mandalas.
------ Beyond: How Humankind Thinks About Heaven
by Catherine Wolff
What it is: a sweeping cultural history of the concepts of the afterlife, from ancient Mesopotamian and Greek myths to the modern era.
Read it for: the diversity of perspectives surveyed, from the Abrahamic religions to Hinduism and Buddhism.
Reviewers say: Beyond is a "soulful, far-reaching primer on what lies beyond" (Kirkus Reviews).
Sandy, that mystery sounds good. Thanks for reviewing it for us.
Alias, what a fascinating list of spiritual books. It seems there is something for most of us. I’m drawn to Beth Allison Barr’s exploration of biblical females in The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth. Thanks.
Glad you enjoy the list, deb. I appreciate the feedback. I see I posted the list in the wrong thread. :(
I will move the spiritual book list to the Book Salon.
Alias, i didn't realize that, either.
Annette, thank you for your terrific review of Revelations a few months ago. It finally came it and I gobbled it up. This is the second Mary Sharratt novel I’ve read and I’m sold on her explorations of medieval women. In this case Sharratt explained Lollards well, as well as gave numerous details about pilgrimages of those years. The only thing lacking was more about Julian of Norwich, who fascinates me. Having read Margery Kempe’s The Book of Margery Kempe : The Autobiography of the Madwoman of God, as well as Louise Collis’s Memoirs of a Medieval Woman: The Life and Times of Margery Kempe, i felt Sharratt underplayed the crying but that might have really turned readers off the historical impact of Kemp’s and her book, widely viewed as the world’s first autobiography.
Again, thanks.
I went straight from Medieval years to 21st century mystery this week. While Justice Sleeps came in for me, after a long wait. I don’t usually read mysteries with worldwide views, but was almost immediately caught up in Stacey Abrams writing. I traced back on posts and learned she has written several romance novels under the name Selena Montgomery, so has practice. I’m not a great one for complicated mysteries but the writing lucidly explained ideas and science, which enhanced the book for me. A time or two i wished something was edited out but, honestly, couldn’t imagine how she could have done so. My pressing need was the fact i suddenly have five books in, having waited months for them. In all, it was a fine book.
I just finished a fine mystery novel, The Thursday Murder Club, set in an upscale retirement estate. There are four regulars, who drag two working officers into their meetings for information sharing. Author Richard Osman performs the admirable task of keeping characters distinct enough, i didn’t get confused. The resolutions were neat.Unbeknownst to me, I was familiar with this author from our last visit to the UK. He was a presenter, of sorts, on a game show which intrigued us. Knowing this fact enhanced my appreciation of the book, i must admit.
And on to My Remarkable Journey: A Memoir, the memoir of Katherine G. Johnson. I would have preferred she saved her introduction for the end because it is full of bits about her life since the publication of and film based on Margot Lee Shetterly’s Hidden Figures. Her final years were quite busy! Johnson presented her book in a straightforward manner, giving historical data to help readers better appreciate what African Americans faced to attain education beyond 6th grade. I’m liking the journey she’s shared and look forward to completing this book.
madrano wrote: "And on to My Remarkable Journey: A Memoir, the memoir of Katherine G. Johnson. I would have preferred she saved her introduction for the end because it is full of ..."Sometimes I skip the intro if I am not already familiar with the subject so as not to spoil the story.
Sounds as if an epilogue would have served the book better.
I wanted to add a bit about the above Johnson book. I wonder if this isn’t a YA. She gives quite a bit of history about topics one might expect usual memoirs readers would know, such as WWII. I’m not sure why and it certainly doesn’t add much padding but it occurred to me that perhaps i’m not really her target audience. I’m enjoying it and can see how she must have excelled as an educator. What a well lived life…and i’m only in her 38th year!
madrano wrote: "I wanted to add a bit about the above Johnson book. I wonder if this isn’t a YA. She gives quite a bit of history about topics one might expect usual memoirs readers would know, such as WWII. I’m n..."I've not seen the movie Hidden Figures. However, this sounds like an amazing memoir. I'm adding it to my TBR notebook. Thanks !
My pleasure. I think you would like it very much, Alias.
I’m presently reading Suzanne Simard’s Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest. Set in the Canadian forests, Simard tells her own biography, as well as her search for a better way to harvest trees. Her writing about science is strong, while reading about her life is pleasing because it’s different from my own life, as well as those i know. Simard has been hailed as following in the footsteps of Rachel Carson.
While still reading the above-mentioned Simard book, with chapters thick with science, I also read Elizabeth Letts’ The Ride of Her Life: The True Story of a Woman, Her Horse, and Their Last-Chance Journey Across America. This morning i finished this tale, which is about a 62-year old woman who rode her horse across the US in 1954-5. The only previous book i’ve read by Letts was a novel, Finding Dorothy. It, too, was well researched, covering the making of the movie “The Wizard of Oz”. For my money, she should stick with nonfiction.
This book was as thorough as the subject, Annie Wilkins allowed, in that she was not as fully disclosing when giving interviews on her travels and in writing her memoir (Last of the Saddle Tramps: One Woman's Seven Thousand Mile Equestrian Odyssey—Messanie Wilkins and Mina Titus Sawyer). Letts fleshes out US history, particularly travel and highways in the early’50s.
I have no complaints about this one. It follows in the vein of Ben Montgomery, shedding light on regular but forgotten stories of folks who tackle something unusual, such as Grandma Gatewood's Walk: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail and The Man Who Walked Backward: An American Dreamer's Search for Meaning in the Great Depression.
I'm fond of pre-interstate travel narratives, so great to have one brought to our attention!An impulse purchase arrived yesterday: The Planetarium by Nathalie Sarraute. From looking through it - good thing I'm a fan of stream-of-consciousness exposition!
There are days like that, aren't there, Julie? I love it, although too often i despair of ever catching my reading "breath".John, i look forward to reading your comments on the Sarraute novel. I like the way it sounds and the idea of humans as planets, so to speak. Enjoy.
~Solitary~Pisces~ wrote: "I ordered these from Barnes & Noble today."
I know people here at BNC have read Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking and enjoyed it.
It's on my TBR list. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on it when you get to it.
Solitary~Pices~, that McQuestion novel sounds good and topical. I hope it lives up to the description, as i've added it to my TBR. Thanks....and enjoy!
Tonight i completed my reading of Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest. While i found the information about old forests and new planned ones fascinating, i admit to not being entranced by author Suzanne Simard's writing. On the other hand, i felt she did a good job in telling readers how some of her ideas for new theses came about while she was in the outdoors hiking or skiing. She used the book as a sort of autobiography as well, beginning with the generations her family has lived in the forests of Canada and how they harvested trees with precautions. Additionally, she had thrilling photos of them in the wilds, harvesting and not, mixed in with what she learned from living in that area. Her personal history is intermittently shared while we learn about her research & trials against the Canadian government for understanding of how they were devastating the woods.
The understory of forests was amazing to learn--Myccorrhiza (fungus & root), spores, decaying salmon bones, pathogens and on are mentioned. Finally, she mentions how her work & that of others have illustrated how the forest trees learn to live and help one another, unless harvesters decimate the land by over-harvesting and destroying accompanying (but not desired) vegetation. Fascinating story.
madrano wrote: "Tonight i completed my reading of Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest. While i found the information about old forests and new planned ones fascinating, i ..."Deb, if you already haven't read
The Overstory by Richard Powers
you might want to add it to your TBR.
I've not read it yet, but many have and loved it.
It's already added. In fact, my note about that novel is that Powers states he created one character based on Suzanne Simard! I'm looking forward to reading it.
I'm probably not enough of a nature person to appreciate this one, but it sounds like a solid read for those who are!
John, there was a time or two when i realized i am not that into all she was explaining, either. I am fascinated by "communication" between plants, which was her bottom line, but the need for the Latin names and such was too much. And i was entertained by the way she related what she'd learned about the understory with the way the lives of many humans are.I muddle through these sort of books occasionally because i want to know the science. Despite taking notes, most is lost on me within a month, sadly.
I just finished a real gem of a book. in The Housekeeper and the Professor, Yōko Ogawa has created a small, lovely story about a housekeeper assigned by her employment agency to tend home for a mathematics professor whose memory can only retain 80 minutes of memory since 1975. The man regularly wears suits to which he pins notes about the few things he wants to remember. For instance, his new housekeeper's name & a rough drawing of her face. His first question, "What's your shoe size?" From that he tells her info about the number 24, it's status as a "sturdy number, factorial, and on. Thus begins her adventure from 11 AM to 7 PM each weekday. Later, her son is part of their group, arriving after school is finished each day.
The threesome share their quiet lives, discussing math (of course), baseball (a game of stats, of course) and little else. Slowly we see how the housekeeper & her son incorporate math into many of their musings about their ordinary actions.
It's a tough book to describe but i think Ogawa created a small story, precisely told. I waited a long time to finally read this one but it was well worth it.
I would definitely recommend it as well.
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Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike -I have had this on my list forever and just started reading this!