One thing I love about summer is reading! I get a stack of books and spend some time almost every day in our hammock chairs out back reading a book. Here’s some I’ve just completed (or have almost completed). And, be forewarned, I typically go for dramas, so you’ll see a theme below.
The Storyteller by Jodi Piccoult. I am a fan of Piccoult’s writing; however, I always feel that her endings are contrived. This was no different, although, it does stray from her typical formula of each chapter being told from a different character’s viewpoint. While she still employs that tactic, this book is broken into three parts, with the second part being exclusively told by one character. It took me a while to get into the story, but once I hit the second part, I was hooked. It’s a story of forgiveness that deals with the Holocaust. I would definitely recommend it. If you enjoy it and haven’t read any of her others, I would recommend them as well.
Chosen by Chandra Hoffman. This is Hoffman’s debut novel and she employs Piccoult’s technique of writing each chapter from a different character’s point of view. The topic of the story is adoption the effects it has on all different parties. It was okay, not certainly one I’ll remember for any length of time, but it kept me entertained by the pool for a few afternoons.
I’ll See You Again by Jackie Hance. Do not read this if you are feeling sad. This book is anything but a pick me up. It’s the raw and real story of mom Jackie Hance and how she lost all three of her daughters in a car accident. She is honest about her pain and suffering and if you can make it through this book without crying, then you are a stronger person than I am. Don’t get me wrong, there are many positives in the book, but as a mom, my heart just breaks for Hance and what she has endured.
Joyland by Stephen King. I always tell my girls, “don’t judge a book by its cover.” Well, I judged this book by its cover and almost didn’t read it, which would have been a shame, because it’s the best book I’ve read in a while. While the cover makes it look like you are in for a super scary story of ghosts at an amusement park, the book is so much more. My mom claims that Stephen King is undervalued as a writer and I have to agree. This is a wonderful read and while I still have about a third of the book to finish, I am hooked. Pick it up and give it a try, you’ll be glad you did.
What about you? What books have you read? I have one more in my stack but will need some new titles before long!