Challenge: 50 Books discussion

It's a little late in the year...but here's what I've read so far (that I can remember)

1. The Last Book in the Universe
2. Summer of My German Soldier
3. Nine Days A Queen
4. Make Lemonade
5. The Hero and the Crown
6. The Blue Sword
7. Sunshine
8. Beauty

Currently Reading: Everlost and The Time Travelers Wife

I teach Eighth Grade English...so I'm going to make a conscious effort to not let my list fill up with YA stuff. While it's great and all, sometimes I forget how stimulating it is to read something that is on MY lexile level, not a 13 year old's.

9. Time Travellers wife

I don't know what all the negative reviews were about for this book. I LOVED it. It was the kind of book where you keep thinking about the characters after you put the book down. I sobbed through the last 50 pages. SO good.

You are doing really well!

Thanks Aprile!

10. The Impressionist

I was very disappointed by this book. I felt like I had to slog my way through and force myself to finish. The concept was interesting and the setting (British Imperialist India) fascinates me, but the author tried to cram way too much "extra" stuff in it. There were whole chapters in which minor character's histories were discussed until you forgot what was going on with the main character. I bought it for $.50 at a used book sale, and I'm glad I didn't over pay.

11. Al Capone Does My Shirts

Another YA book. Very good. A coming of age story set against the unique backdrop of Alcatraz in the 30s. Deals not only with the history of the island's most infamous prisoner, but also the treatment of children with severe autism before the disorder was diagnosable. Very good. Would definitely recommend.

12. Towelhead

Good...but disturbing. Another coming of age story, although DEFINITELY not YA. Racism, child abuse, and molestation are just some of the topics dealt with in the book. I found the main character a little flat and boring, but her situation was what kept me going. It was like driving past a car wreck...I couldn't look away. I would recommend this for someone looking for something to make them a little uncomfortable.

13. Liars and Saints by Maile Meloy

Shmeh...little to no plot until the last 75 pages. Not a fan.

14. Unaccustomed Earth

I don't really like short stories and these were no different. Except the last section. Those were good.