Many moons ago I made a New Year’s resolution to read one book per month. It has since transformed into my annual reading list. With motherhood, however, comes diminished free time and fewer books on my lists, but I was only one shy from reaching my goal this year. Check out the titles that kept me company in 2018.
Decision Points by George W. Bush | My Rating: ★★★★★
I did not vote for George W. Bush. As a matter of fact, I campaigned strongly against him. Nevertheless, he served as our 43rd president and the events that occurred under his watch were life-altering and worthy of studying his viewpoints. It may not change your opinion about his presidency, but it certainly delivers a better understanding of the inner workings of the Bush Administration during those eight consequential years. I found his memoir fascinating and developed a sincere admiration and respect for his service and accomplishments.
Dietland by Sarai Walker | My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Recommended by my sister, this novel was an interesting change of pace. The first half of the book is fun and enlightening, addressing the personal struggles and societal pressures placed on women to be “beautiful.” The second half becomes bolder, more intriguing and a little disturbing. A great choice for intellectually lively discussions on topics such as feminism, rape culture, body shaming and beauty.
Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White | My Rating: ★★★★☆
I read this classic aloud to my children at bedtime. We read two or three chapters a night, and I witnessed them fall in love with Charlotte, Wilbur, Templeton and the other characters in the book. I was pleasantly surprised they were able to remember where we left off each night — sometimes better than me — and I loved seeing the excitement of the story unfold in their little minds. We watched the movie together after completing the book, too. Although they’re still fearful of spiders, they have an appreciation for their purpose in nature and affectionately name our backyard spiders, “Charlotte.”
The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy by Nora Roberts | My Rating: ★★★☆☆
On the more fanciful side of my reading list is this spell-binding series including the novels, Shadow Spell, Dark Witch and Blood Magick. Roberts combines magic, suspense and romance in a beautifully crafted setting, Ireland. I read these novels back-to-back, which made the storyline repetitive and predictable. All in all, they are terrific escapes, quick reads and curl up on the sofa on a rainy day kind of books.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty | My Rating: ★★★★☆
While classics and historical fictions are my preferences, this book was recommended by a friend and brought me squarely into modern times. With lots of relatable mommy content, scandalous drama and a suspenseful storyline, Big Little Lies kept me up far too late at night because I couldn’t put it down. Moriarty artfully tackles serious issues including bullying, domestic abuse and sexual assault, and then balances it with clever humor, poignant thoughts and some over-the-top antics.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood | My Rating: ★★★☆☆
I haven’t seen the television series, so I went into this book without knowing anything about it. I got it based on a friend’s recommendation and it did not disappoint. It was unexpected and captivating. Set in a time period when humans have corrupted most of the earth, a new government comes to power under new rules. Fertility is a commodity and a class of handmaids are valued only for the ability to produce healthy babies. The book follows one handmaid in particular, Offred, and her interactions and experiences. It’s terrifying, but you can’t stop reading. Definitely one for some quality book club dialogue.
The Next Person You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom | My Rating: ★★★★☆
An equally striking sequel to The Five People You Meet in Heaven, this novel was an interesting perspective on how lives intersect and how fate works. My neighbor lent this book to me at just the right time in my life. My spirit was weary, and this lovely book offered hope, inspiration and an important reminder to appreciate this gift called life.
Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty | My Rating: ★★☆☆☆
I picked up the paperback in the airport on my way to New York last summer. It was an easy choice after how much I enjoyed Big Little Lies, but it was not as easy of a read. This book required a good dose of patience. Moriarty holds you in suspense about what actually happened on the day of the barbecue for most of the book. For some, that can be truly madly frustrating. Resist the urge to skip ahead or shelf it; push through because you’ll be rewarded with the complete story and a few tidbits of thought about marriage, friendship and parenthood.
Watership Down by Richard Adams | My Rating: ★★★★★
I first read this book in high school and it immediately became a favorite. What can I possibly say about a four-part book — over 450 pages — about the lives of bunnies other than it’s absolutely amazing?! It is thrilling, suspenseful, sad and triumphant. A wonderfully written struggle of real life, but from the point of view of animals. My kids and I watched the Netflix series and they are now fans as well. A definite must read.
Now it’s your turn… have you read any of these? What were your impressions? Any book suggestions for 2019? Thanks so much! — v.
