After nearly two months, I’m making sense of my brother’s estate and getting out from under all the files. At last I have time to think about something more fun—like reading!
Lately, however, I’ve been seeking out books I’ve read and re-read, seeking solace in their familiar pages, almost like visiting old friends. But it’s time to move on, to look for some new friends, so to speak.
As I explore new authors, I hope to find books that I will want to read over and over. So far, I haven’t found many. So I’ve put together a long reading list, hoping to find some gems.
The first three on my list are there just for the joy of reading.
Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore
A book set in one of my favorite places has got to be good, right? One reviewer called it an utter delight. The hero has lost his job and finds work in a bookstore, that turns out to be much more than your average bookstore.
Divergent
I know, I’m behind. But I’m intrigued by this series. One reviewer called it a more complicated Hunger Games. I’ve read too many books (especially dystopias) that reflect an overly simple world. Divergent just might not be one of them.
Bellwether
Ever since I read To Say Nothing of the Dog, I’ve been a fan of Connie Willis. I’m looking forward to reading this one. I’m not even sure what it’s about. All I know is it will be good!
The next three books made the list because they supposedly do a specific aspect of writing particularly well. As I am always looking to improve my craft, I’ll be reading these with an eye to their particular strengths.
Memoirs of Cleopatra
I’ve enjoyed many of Margaret George’s books, and am looking forward to this one as an example of introducing setting through senses. Bringing settings to life is something I struggle with, so I’m hoping to learn a lot.
Death Comes for the Archbishop
Willa Cather uses dialogue to show character, rather than just tell. Her story of two French Catholic priests sent tot eh the American southwest in the mid-1850s has been called a classic, steeped in atmosphere.
A Canticle for Leibowitz
Another author who can make the reader see what they haven’t seen, while telling a compelling story. One reviewer commented that A Canticle for Leibowitz isn’t just a post-apocalyptic tale, but a thoughtful look at the conflicts between knowledge and morality. I’ll be reading to discover how the author weaves these themes into his tale.
The last one made the list because of the title.
At the Shallows: What the Internet is doing to our Brains
I’m intrigued. I hope it’s nothing really bad. Stay tuned to find out, if I still have a brain left after I’ve read the book.
So what about you? Anyone have any suggestions? Have you read any of these? What did you think?