Okay, I’m devoting this first week of the new year to books. I’m determined to get back into my reading habit this year, and I know so many of you feel the same way.
Yesterday I posted my interview with Elizabeth Gilbert about Big Magic. If you have the itsy bitsy slightest desire to do something creative – write, paint, sew, whatever – but you have come up with a million reasons why you can’t do it, YOU MUST READ HER BOOK. And, lucky for you, I’m giving away a copy so go enter now and then come back here. I’ll wait.
I read a lot of books last year – mostly while traveling, which may actually be part of the appeal of travel writing for me – but I’m only going to write about the ones I recommend. Life is too short to waste on negative reviews and attention spans are too short for books that are mediocre.
So, here are half a dozen books to curl up with while El Nino keeps you housebound. I tried to cover different genres so there’s something to fit any mood. As always, please let me know what you’re reading.
Girl in the Woods by Aspen Matis
If you need an empowering story to get you moving, this memoir is it. After Matis was raped on her second night of college, she fled to the Pacific Crest Trail to walk 2650 miles from Mexico to Canada. Yes, this is the same route Cheryl Strayed made famous in Wild, but everything else about it is different – and powerful. The writing is beautiful and honest, and Matis’ pain and struggle are so moving, I just wanted to reach through the pages to hug her. The fact that she can ultimately find her way and transform her life makes this a book to cherish and share with every daughter, every sister.
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen
My soul sister in reading, Sara Locricchio, suggested I read this right when I was having trouble getting past the first few pages of any book. It turned out to be just what I needed. Quiet and magical, it’s the story of the Waverleys, a family whose women seem to have secret powers. I adored elderly cousin Evanelle who feels compelled to give people gifts whose use will eventually become clear – hey, kind of like Sara emailing me about this book! – and I was intrigued by the enchanted apple tree which has a mind of its own. This is a lovely novel which will transport you out of your dreary winter day and make you believe anything is possible.
Smoke by Catherine McKenzie
I love books that give me a real sense of place, and I could practically feel the heat of the small town threatened by fire in this page-turner. Elizabeth has just given up her job as a firefighter when a fast-spreading forest fire hits too close to home. It’s fascinating to see her return to confront the flames, which feels less dangerous to her than confronting her own troubled marriage. A compelling story of love, friendship and finding oneself, I gobbled this book down on one long plane ride, and can’t wait to go back and read McKenzie’s previous four books which I can’t believe I missed.
It’s Not Me, It’s You by Mhairi McFarlane
I laughed out loud during so many parts of this delightful and often hilarious book. First of all, I’m a sucker for rom coms, especially when they’re told in a British accent. And even more especially when they actually have substance and are well-written and smart. Delia’s life changes when she proposes to her long-time boyfriend and he accidentally sends her a text meant for the Other Woman. What follows is a tale of self-discovery and learning how to take back your life. Delia stumbles and gets up and ultimately triumphs, becoming the heroine of her own story – and, likely, every reader’s.
The Cellar by Katherine Lo
There’s nothing like reading a good ghost story while the wind howls outside – and this is a really good ghost story. 17-year-old Julia moves into an old house in Virginia with her mom, who is still mourning the loss of her brother – Julia’s beloved Uncle Denny – and who needs a break from New York City and the rest of their family. Julia finds what feels like a room of her own in the cellar, only to realize she’s not alone down there. Rather than being afraid, though, she feels a kinship with the ghost, finding solace in their spiritual relationship. Thanks to solid writing, we root for both characters and come to realize that sometimes the most ethereal connections can become the most solid bonds.
The Daylight Marriage by Heidi Pitlor
I’m still freaked out by this book which is, in its own, quiet way, a horror story about a marriage. Alternating between husband – Lovell tries to piece together what happened to Hannah – and wife – an actual account of the day Hannah disappeared – the structure itself adds to the power and heartbreak of this chilling story. I read with ever-growing dread, turning pages slowly and half-closing my eyes. A cautionary tale about the choices we make – “No, Hannah!” I felt like yelling more than once – I finished this book and promptly went to grab my husband, planning to never let go.
Those all sound like great reads. I will have to check out some of these.
I’m so glad to see you’re back reading and reviewing. I look forward to your recommendations and these books sound great. Thanks, Lois……
Wonderful selection of books. Right now it’s pouring like I’ve never seen it before. We’re in for a wet El Nino. I almost always read non-fiction but you may make me change my tune.
I don’t think we get that el nino thing over this way, but it doesn’t sound like much fun.
Thanks, Lois, for all the great recommendations – these all sound like worthwhile reads!
Hi Lois! I’ve already bought the book Real Magic but just haven’t taken the time to read it just yet. Now I’m more encouraged than ever. And thanks for the insights into these other books. They too sound very good and if I get a chance to read fiction I will definitely use your advice. ~Kathy
“It’s Not Me, It’s You” sounds like a really fun one. I wouldn’t mind starting the year with a smart, funny rom com like that.
Thanks Lois! I’ll tell my small local library about these too!
Big Magic and Girl in the Woods are on my list! Now I think I’ll add Smoke and Garden Spells too. Awesome.
These are all delicious. Your reviews read as well as the books I think. Thanks!
Lois, these all sound great! More to add to my TBR list! I also enjoyed First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen – it’s either the sequel or prequel to Garden Spells
I need to get back to reading again. Thanks for the great suggestions.
Oh, yum. I’m going to dive in! I think I’ll begin with the rom com because I feel like reading one, and then the one about the ghost. Reminds me of The Ghost and Mrs. Muir. Not the silly TV program but the original (beautiful) movie starring Rex Harrison and Gene Tierney who form a bond despite one being a ghost and the other a widow.
Thanks for the recommendations and thank your friend Sara! xo
Looks like a great collection! The Daylight Marriage sounds like a read I would enjoy!
Garden Spells seems like a very interesting read. What a great way to start the new year.
Okay all these sound wonderful. Must add them to my reading list. I guess there goes the idea of my “to read” list getting smaller!
So many good books! I’m glad it’s raining outside, perfect reading weather!
Thank you for the list. I haven’t thought about what to read for the year as yet so this list gives me a little start in that direction.
I am such an avid reader, but have not been doing much of it. I need to take a closer look at your suggestions.
I am going to have to check out Girl in the Woods and The Daylight Marriage. They look interesting. Thank you for sharing these awesome books with us.
These books are very interesting. I love reading as well and would definitely consider these books.
These look like great books to read. I just finished reading a series and i need to pick one of these to start.
These look like great book choices. I will have to go check them out the next time i go to the bookstore.
I have been looking for new books to read. I will check these out!
Thanks for the book referrals. I used to love reading but have gotten so busy I don’t have time to read books anymore.
Sounds like some fab reads. Definitely adding some of these to my list!
I haven’t heard of any of these so thank so much! I needed to add a few more to my list.
I need to get back in the habit of reading because these looks like some great books.
I have wanted to read it’s not me it’s you for a bit now. I need to grab myself a copy, I think it looks so good and its totally my style!
I want to get back to my old reading habit in 2016. Think I’ll try Garden Spells to get back in the swing. Sounds like it’s just what I need!
They sound like amazing books! I can’t wait to start reading some of them! Love the title, it’s not Me it’sYou!
I am pinning this for future reference. Right now I’m reading Naipul and his memoir on India. I’m back on the India bandwagon, it’s calling me again.
Oh goody— another book list! Thank you!!!! I always love your recommendations!
I am not familiar with any of the titles you shared here. That is a good thing because you made them sound interesting and worth my time. I am looking forward to checking out a few of them.
I’m going to check out that ghost book!!