One of my favorite things about Christmas break is that I have extra time to read. I like to plan ahead--especially for our long road trip to visit family--and save some really good books just for Christmas break.
Here are the 4 books I read over Christmas break:
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - I waited a full year before I finally picked up this book to read. Even though it had been highly recommended by a reader whose taste in books I really trust, I drug my feet about reading it--because of its premise. In case you don't know about this book, the premise is that in a future America (called Panem), teenagers are randomly selected and forced to take part in a set of nationally televised games (The Hunger Games), in which the youth fight to the death, until a winner emerges.
You see why I was hesitant to read this book! This is actually a young adult book--which is being devoured by 5th and 6th graders everywhere. When I heard that my 5th grade literacy-teaching sister was going to read the book, I quickly decided I finally would, too!
Okay, all of those disclaimers to say this: I LOVED the book. Period. Reading the book is sort of like passing a terrible wreck on the side of the road and not being able to look away. The Hunger Games has wonderful characters that I cared about, and a plot that kept me engrossed. I can see why the book is a young adult book--there are so many interesting themes a good teacher could draw out, and have great discussions with a class.
The Hunger Games is a trilogy, and Book 2 is currently on its way to my doorstep in a smiley-faced box!!! (And in the meantime...I. Am. Dying!!!!!)
2. Falling Together by Marisa de los Santos - I really really loved this book. It was an easy read--but, oh, such an endearing read. Also by this author are Love Walked In and Belong to Me--both of which I probably loved EVEN MORE than Falling Together.
3. One Year Women's Devotional by Nav Press- I got this devotional book for Christmas, and already I am loving it. Each day's devotional is one page, with a handy satin ribbon to keep your place (ALL books should have attached satin ribbon bookmarks, should they not?) The authors are all women involved in some form of ministry--many of them pastors' wives. Fun sidenote: My cousin (a pastor's wife) wrote 2 of the devotionals!! Shout out to Rachel Uth!!! Love her!
4. The House at Riverton by Kate Morton - I loved this book. Now, I do have to tell you that it took me a while to get into it...maybe 50 pages or so. But, when I did, I really fell in love with the characters, and their story. Oh, and the very last page of the book was so satisfying--it just tied up the whole story and made me smile beneath my tears.
I just love talking books! What are you reading?
