A Good Book (Or Two... )

One of my favorite past times is reading. I have always loved to escape in a book.

I credit my parents and my 2nd teacher for my love for reading. In 2nd grade, our school participated in the Book It program. Book It was sponsored by Pizza Hut and after reading a certain of books, you received a coupon for a free personal pan pizza. Funny, I don't remember ever actually getting pizzas, but I do remember other rewards. My parents were diligent in providing me access to books and reading with me. By the end of 2nd grade, I had read or been read over 2,000 books! Ms. Little, my wonderful teacher rewarded me with a collection of Richard Scarry stories. My parents gave me an awesome Tide racing car for riding outside. My picture was published in our little town's newspaper.

I go through seasons of reading. In college, I did very little reading other than what was required. Before moving to China, I read everything about China or Chinese culture I could get my hands on. This summer was different. I read for pure pleasure. I visited McKays often, borrowed from friends, and happily perused the aisles of Borders when they were liquidating.

I thought I would share my favorite reads from my summer collection...

1. The Help by Kathryn Stockett. Our book club read this book and I could not put it down. I still have not gone to see the movie, but I'm a little afraid it won't do the book justice.

2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Young Adult fiction at its best! Our book club just picked it for the next read. I am trying to resist the urge to finish the other books in the trilogy before book club gets to them.

3. The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards . This was a little hard to read just based on the content of the storyline, but very well written. Similar to novels by Jodi Piccult.

4. From Black Heels To Tractor Wheels by Ree Drummond. Simple and sweet love story. Also, good for those who might be dating a country boy... ;)

5. Another Place At The Table by Kathy Harrison. I received this book in the mail from my friend Amanda just this past week and I devoured it. Memoir of a foster mom. So moving. Highly recommend!

6. Radical by David Platt. I am still finishing, but lots of food for thought. Kind of makes me want to pack up and move back to China...

With school picking back up, I am not sure I will be reading as much. :( I still warmly welcome any suggestions for future reads!

What have you been reading lately?