Books!

I decided I would read one book a week this year. But, the problem is: I have terribly poor taste when choosing books. Whatever I pick up and take home from the library usually sit's on the shelf for three weeks. However, I've read a few selections from my cousin Sam's list and enjoyed everything so far. So much to read and so little time. 


This is what I've read so far:

Defiance—Nechama Tec

The Ayatollah begs to differ—Hooman Majd

Answers to Gospel Questions—Joseph Fielding Smith

The Scarlet Pinpernel—Baroness Orczy
Bud, Not Buddy—Christopher Paul Curtis

Saint Maybe—Anne Tyler

Death Comes to the Archbishop—Willa Cather

Defiance—Nechama Tec

An account of the Beilski Otraid in Belarus. Three brothers manage to rescue thousands of Jews from getto liquidation and survive the German occupation by living in the forest. This work is so well docmented—nothing seems embellished. It was sobering, but also very inspiring.

The Ayatollah begs to differ—Hooman Majd

An insider's view on the paradox of Modern Iran. I had no idea Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was the son of a blacksmith, or how to smoke opium in the form a tootsie roll. Majd gives you an understanding of Shi'a Islam and a humorous descrition of the quirks in Iranian culture.

Answers to Gospel Questions—Joseph Fielding Smith

Still working on this one—but have read the first installment (there are 5—200 page volumes). I know it is not official doctrine but I really like reading and thinking about whether I will get to keep my dog when I get to heaven, why Christ had to offer a blood atonement, and in-depth explanations of the fall of Adam.

The Scarlet Pinpernel—Baroness Emmuska Orczy

Lovestory + intrigue + heroism + suspense + delightful 18th century language. A classic children's book, that takes place during the French Revolution. A story about a witty englishman who smuggles French nobles out of the country, this saving them from the guillotine. I took breaks only for eating and sleeping.

Bud, Not Buddy—Christopher Paul Curtis


This very entertaining read takes place during the great depression. The voice is completely from a child's perspective, and is captured very well. My favorite part: 'Rules for making life funner and making a better liar out of yourself'—Priceless!

Saint Maybe—Anne Tyler

I don't want to spoil the book for anyone, but I will say that this author has one of the most intricate and entertaining writing styles I have read in a long time.

Death Comes to the Archbishop—Willa Cather


I just liked it.




'Going to the library today. Let me know if you have any suggestions.