Since I pretty much ignored my New Year's Resolutions from last year, I don't have much to report on there. However, I did have a wonderful year of reading. I read far less than I usually do. This whole mom thing is funny - I have a lot more time on my hands now, but not necessarily discretionary time to myself.
Nevertheless. Notable books of 2010.
My Life in France by Julia Child is my favorite book of 2010. It's a memoir she wrote with her nephew, I think. It is what reading and entertainment should be: uplifting. I laughed, I cried, and mostly I just fell in love with her. Sometimes I get caught up in thinking that I should read only things that are "smart" or extremely eye-opening, but sometimes it's just so fun to get all caught up in something as innocent and light-hearted as Julia Child.
A Long Way Gone and Gang Leader for a Day are two books were not fun or light-hearted, but were incredibly revealing about cultures I hope to never know personally, but for which I feel deep sorrow. During those early months, I read while I nursed Tate (only time I could get to read!). Often, I had to put A Long Way Gone away because I couldn't stand the harsh juxtaposition of holding a sweet and perfect baby, so recently come from heaven, while reading about the worst imaginable things you could put a child through. I finished the book, though, and am grateful I did. The author is a rehabilitated Sudanese child soldier whose story of redemption is inspiring and gut-wrenching. I recommend them both with the caveat that there is extreme violence and language.
What do you think? Should we read these things to know and better understand the world? Or should we keep ourselves away from depravity etc. and hang with Julia Child?
Lust for Life by Irving Stone is about Vincent Van Gogh, who was one fascinating and disturb(ed)ing character. I can't say that it was as good as Stone's Agony and the Ecstasy about Michelangelo, but it was still pretty great.
Do you have any recommendations for me? My book list for awhile:
1. Les Miserables (shut up. I know I said that last year, but I'm going to do to it and not get distracted).
2. God's Secretaries
I know there are more, but I am feeling brain dead right now. Recommendations, please! (I don't like to read politic-y books)
3 comments:
Some recommendations:
1) The History of Love (stupid title but I am loving the book)
I'm trying to think of some good ones that will impress you and make you think I'm smart but I'm not having much luck - so I'll tell you the truth. I read the book 1,000 days by Shannon Hale and I really liked it. There, the truth comes out.
I second History of Love. Also, do books on CD count? That's how I get most of my "reading" done with two kids. (In the car during long road trips or bits and pieces while driving around town). If so, I have some good ones.
Just started Cutting for Stone...and am captured! I miss you so.
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