Here’s my next monthly reading update. It’s a mixture of audio books, Kindle Unlimited options and old-fashioned paper-paged books.
Language Arts by Stephanie Kallos (ebook)
This was a Kindle Unlmited find. I was obviously intrigued by the title (as an old English teacher). I did learn (if the book is accurate) that “language arts” was a radical way of thinking and teaching English during the mid 1960s. The protagonist is a product of this new way of thinking (that and Palmer penmanship, hence the loops on the cover). I did enjoy (and almost love) this book. The point of view is from a language arts teacher (the protagonist mentioned above) at a exclusive school, his daughter, and a nun. It’s obvious how the first two intertwine (but is it?) How does the nun get involved in the tale? It might be a bit convoluted for some but this novel has made me a Kallos fan. I’m reading everything else she wrote. Note: I picked up Broken for You and I’m not as enthused. 4.5 STARS
Practical Magic 2 (or The Book of Magic) by Alice Hoffman (paperback)
I was a little perplexed when I got home with Practical Magic 2 and realized it was really a repurposed version of The Book of Magic (with all the movie sequel hype). I was afraid I had already read it. I had not. (I had read The Rules of Magic which I totally enjoyed. It’s the sequel to Practical Magic.)
I enjoyed the book but I honestly had a bit of a problem keeping the family relationship straight (from old Essex to new Essex). The family tree in the back of the book didn’t help a lot. 4 STARS
I did watch the movie. It was cute. Sandra Bullock’s portrayal of Sally was a bit annoying at times.
P.S. Practical Magic (1 or 2) was the October Movies & Munchies feature.
Magic Lessons by Alice Hoffman (ebook)
I read the first book in the Owens family saga last. Magic Lessons (the first book is set in the 1600s), and it is helping a bit in clarifying the kinship confusion I had in The Book of Magic. Maria, the matriarch of the Owens, is responsible for the love curse. At this point, this is my favorite book in the series. I would love for this novel to be adapted to the screen. 4.5 STARS
The River’s Daughter by Bridget Crocker (audiobook read by the author)
Crocker’s memoir reminded me of Jeannette Walls’ The Glass Castle and Tara Westover’s Educated. I loved the first part of the book. I felt like the last few chapters lacked something and that the book was “wrapped up” a bit to tidily. Crocker is definitely a survivor and a forgiver. She also is a fearless adventurer and advocate for women wilderness guides. The epilogue is vital! 4 STARS
Verity by Colleen Hoover (ebook)
I read one of Hoover’s books. Then I have to wait a while before I can start another. Verity was a Kindle Unlimited find, I knew there was a movie coming out, and I needed something to read at the lake. (I feel like I’m rationalizing.) Early on in the book, I knew there would be a twist. I knew who was behind it and I thought this person (no spoiler so being vague) might have been even guiltier and might have contrived the events even more. It’s a quick read, well written and fully of surprises. It’s also quite dark. 4 STARS (because it kept my attention…. There I go rationalizing again.)
The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hasashi Kashiwai (audiobook read by Hanako Footman)
This was the audio book read by Hanako Footman. There are only 6 short chapters (separated into two parts each) so it was a quick book to listen to. The way the narrator sometimes intoned for Koishi drove me crazy. Interesting premise of 6 stand alone food detective stories. Much more to come as this is the October/November Cook the Books selection. 3.25 STARS
Mediterranean Every Night: 100+ Nourishing Recipes for Real Life by Sonja Overhiser and Alex Overhiser (ARC)
I received an ARC from NetGalley of this cookbook (out in March 2027). I loved it. Look for a full review soon The authors are the couple also behind A Couple Cooks. 5 STARS
What’s currently being read?
Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser
I’m still trying to get through it. Not sure I’m going to make it.
The Pirate Queen by Ariel Lawhon
Totally enjoying this one so far.
I’m also still reading that work thing: 10 to 25 by David Yeager….
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