Time to Read

Is it just me, or has it been near impossible to find time to read this summer?

I just want my laundry to be done (for once), and to have a quiet hour to read under the shade of a tree.  I ask you, is that too much to wish for?

I’ve been trying to read, oh so slowly, My Antonia by Willa Cather.  This book is breathtakingly lovely, by the way.  It’s a book to savor, if only I could find the time.

I’ve also been listening to The Help on my iPod, which I’m also enjoying immensely.

Does anyone else like to listen to recorded books?  It is a wonderful way to pass the time while weeding.  If you saw the weeds in my garden, you would know I haven’t had time to listen (or weed) much either.

So on the lucky chance that you have more leisure time than I do…

I thought I would share a few of my favorite books from summers past.

I first read this book when I was in high school.  It was recommended to me by my favorite teacher, Miss Lees, who taught English and Humanities.  I loved this book so much, I’ve read it several times since.

Katherine is a historical novel that is both romantic and beautifully written.  If you are looking for a book that is hard to put down, this is your book.

What can I say about The Book Thief?  It floored me.  I carried it with me for a long time after… figuratively of course.   The characters are unforgettable … Liesel and Rudy, Hans and and Rosa Hubermann, and… Death of course (yes, Death is a character in this book.)  This book is a must read.

All the Pretty Horses gave me goose bumps more than once.  Cormac McCarthy carries you away to the harsh and beautiful landscape of ranch life in Texas and northern Mexico.  The land, the horses and the characters are exquisitely rendered.  If you haven’t read it… you need to.

So there are a few of my favorite books.  I would love to hear your short list.  When I finish My Antonia… I don’t have anything I’m dying to read next.