January Books

Following Amy's lead, here is what I've been reading. Hopefully I'll keep posting monthly updates.

1. Shards of a Broken Crown by David Feist. A light, brainless read in the fantasy genre. Last book of a four in the series. Not extremely well written and terrible editing. But the action is fast paced and the characters are engaging so I continue to read this author. I’ve read 12 books in this series in the last year. All his books take place in one ‘world’ which allows the author to really develop some intricate plots. The long-running story (slowly unfolding over all the books) within the plot of each stand-alone book keeps bringing me back. This twist continually reminds me that there are usually many aspects to the bigger picture of life that are not immediately obvious.

2. Atonement by Ian McEwan. Shannon suggested I read this novel before we see the movie. My initial impression was “hated it!” However the more I think about the book, the more I realize it was a creative, fascinating book. I’m not much for book clubs, but I would love to discuss the book with others who have read it. I can’t say more without giving away too much. I do think the movie will be awful if it strictly focuses on the love story/betrayal aspect.

3. Merle’s Door: Lessons from a Free-thinking Dog by Ted Kerasote. I don’t know why I read this type of book. The pet always dies in the end and I become a blithering idiot while reading the last 20 pages (just like last night in bed). I must enjoy the funny anecdotes in the early parts of the books. This book stands apart from others like “Marley & Me” and John Katz’s books because it really delves into trying to understand how, what, and why dogs think. I have not read any of the “Caesar Method” books, but I have a general understanding of his method from seeing his TV show a few times. It is obvious, though, that Caesar and Kerasote have different views on dogs. I know Caesar is popular now, but I will recommend this book to dog owners and encourage them to create a hybrid strategy for loving your dog based on your lifestyle and the dog’s personality. I know I will change how I interact with Raven.