CFB Book Club: Summer 2016

It’s time for another update, time to check in and talk a little about the books that I’ve made it through over the past few months.

As I was getting ready to write this post, I felt good. I felt like I’d been reading regularly and was excited to share my progress. I blame some really long books that have gotten in the mix, but no excuses, right? I’m unsure that I’m going to reach my goal for the year, but I’m chugging along and have enjoyed a few of these books immensely (others, not so much).

(12) Yes Please by Amy Poehler

A few months ago, we celebrated a pretty big milestone – Miles got a library card! He was really excited to check out a book featuring Thomas the Tank Engine, and I figured since I was there…

There was a period of a few months at the end of last year/beginning of this year when I devoured a bunch of memoirs from some very funny ladies (Tiny Fey, Mindy Kaling, Sara Bareilles…). So, when my eyes fell on Yes Please on the library shelf, I could not resist. Mommy has a library card, too!

As expected, it was hilarious and honest and easy to get through. It’s always inspirational to read about another woman’s journey to success, and a good reminder that nothing comes easily.

(13) The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

At my previous job, we did a lot of reading. So, in an effort to keep new books coming into my life, I decided to join a book club at my new job. I think it’ll be mostly novels, as opposed to the leadership books before, but it’s a good way to discover new books and get to know some of my coworkers. This was my first go.

Um, well, I didn’t completely hate it? For starters, this one is really long – over 700 pages. After all my struggles getting through the Song of Fire and Ice series (Game of Thrones), I was no expecting to have to pick up another book of this length for a while. Oh, life…

I can appreciate a lot of things about this book. It takes place in New York City (and Las Vegas and somewhere in the Netherlands), and every detail is described – colors, sounds smells. My biggest issue was that I never really connected to the protagonist (antagonist?). There were other, more peripheral characters that I just cared more about.

(14) A Dance with Dragons by George R. R. Martin

I’m fairly certain it’s actually all George’s fault that I’ve fallen so far behind in my reading this year. I actually started reading this one right after finishing A Feast for Crows, but I got frustrated that it was taking me so long to get through it. So, I have put aside for the time being.

The timeline for this and previous book are concurrent – as in what I already finished reading is happening at the same time as what I am currently reading. I get why he did it that way, but it made things a little confusing to get into at first.

I’m anxious to finish it, and will at some point; I just needed a change of pace.

(15) Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal

After the heaviness of The Goldfinch, my book club at work opted for something a little lighter – both literally and figuratively. I’m about halfway through this pick, and so far, so good. Much like our last book, I’m having a bit of a hard time figuring out exactly the point of the book – whether it’s really one overarching story or a collection of related shorter ones. But I do like the character I’m assuming at this point is our heroine.

Eva is someone to relate to as a bit of an outsider, and I find myself rooting for her. She’s young, and I want this book to show me how awesome her life ends up being after a bit of a rough start. Here’s hoping!

(16) How to Let God Solve Your Problems by Charles Stanley

I mean, how can this book not be good, right? If it gives me even a tiny hint at how to let God solve my problems, I’ll count that as a win!

I’m reading this as part of a small group at my church, along with 15 other married couples. While I don’t think this book is magic, I do think it’ll be a good reminder of what to do when facing tough times.

Sure, my reading list is already a mile and a half long, but what else you got? I’m always up for great reading suggestions. So, let me know!