January Book Review
One of my 2020 goals is to read more books. As a recently graduated history major, reading was a part of my every day routine. After a steep decline since ending school, I’m excited to re-develop one of my favorite hobbies. Luckily, post-grad life offers an opportunity to read whichever books I want. This past month, I’ve mainly read fiction, a refreshing change from the detailed non-fiction histories of Mexico and tragic stories in World War II literature.
I can proudly say I’m off to a strong start. Since beginning the new year, I have finished five books and I want to offer my thoughts. Most of these books were recommendations from friends and family, and I really enjoyed all of them. 😊
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
I was honestly surprised how much this book pulled on my heart strings. Eleanor Oliphant is an office worker who experienced deep trauma as a child and struggles to face her demons. After becoming friends with IT co-worker Raymond, she opens up to the world and her past. This book made me laugh, cry, and empathize with many of Eleanor’s challenges. I highly recommend this Reece Witherspoon Book Club pick for anyone seeking a great, thoughtful story. Written by Gail Honeyman.
No Judgments
Meg Cabot, author of the Princess Diaries, wrote this great adult novel based in Key West. I read the entire book on the plane ride home from my trip to the Florida Keys, and I was riveted the entire time. In the book, Bree Beckham experiences her first hurricane on Little Bridge Island, (aka Key West) after just having moved to the small town. After the devastation, she helps rescue animals left behind and develops new relationships. This book is perfect for any vacation.
Time’s Convert
Deborah Harkness is one of my favorite authors. Time’s Convert is a fourth addition to the phenomenal All Souls trilogy, a series of historical fiction novels about vampires, witches, and demons struggling to understand the origin of their species and their future survival. I loved every page of the All Souls books, but the latest book was definitely a slower read. The story had the same beautiful detail as the others, but I had a harder time relating to the characters and picturing this fictional world.
““The right way to talk to strangers is with caution and humility.””
Talking to Strangers
I found Malcolm Gladwell’s book so compelling and interesting. However, it did take me a few weeks to finish because of the density of the content. Gladwell explores how through common misunderstandings, meeting strangers can have dangerous consequences. History buffs and curious sociologists will love this story. It is an eye opening book worth the read.
The Proposal
This flirty novel revolves around an extremely public failed proposal at Dodgers Stadium between Nikole Paterson and her self-righteous actor boyfriend. Nik escapes the disappointed fans with the help of Carlos Ibarra, and they spark up a romance. Another Reece Witherspoon Book Club pick, I recommend this book for anyone looking for an entertaining, yet non-comittal book. Written by Jasmine Guillory.
Have you read any of these books? What were your thoughts? Let me know in the comments below!
