7.05.2017

Books I Read in June


All Our Wrong Todays by Elan Mastai
The description I read about this being a mashup of Back to the Future and Dark Matter was spot on. I enjoyed the cheeky misfit protagonist in this book, and appreciated the lighter tone. Mastai also had some great observations about family and love; I like that this story wasn't 100% centered around a romance. However, it felt silly at times and got bogged down in some ridiculous science. Overall, though, a solid read.

Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders
You can read my thoughts on this one here, but the short review: I did not care for it.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
One of my favorites of the year so far, you can read my full review here.

Flora & Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo
You can't go wrong with a book by Kate DiCamillo and I read this with my son recently, as well as on my own. When I end up grilling my husband about the parts I missed while he read with the kids, I know I need to add the book to my list. The story of Flora and the miraculous squirrel named Ulysses is full of heart, humor, beautiful nuance, a lovable cast of quirky characters and lilting poetry. Yes, the squirrel writes poetry. It's one you can't explain and just have to read. Additionally, it would also be a perfect read for kids who have experienced divorce.

Beartown by Fredrik Backman
Ooof. This was a gut wrenching story. Fair warning: not at ALL a light summer read! The first half moved slowly, and ominously, towards a terrible event while Backman set up the backstory for what seemed like a dozen pivotal characters. Juuust as it was starting to feel tedious, things moved at breakneck speed towards the conclusion of how the townspeople came to grips with their reality. It's full of triggers, so I'd do some research before reading if you think it might be necessary. Backman has a way with painting harsh realities, but the ending felt somewhat hopeful, despite the oft repeated revelation that 'we cannot protect our children.' 

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
This was my latest attempt in finding a good audiobook and I certainly thought it was worthwhile to hear it read by the author. The wry tone in her voice was so clear as she talked about her dad, and I enjoyed her almost imperceptible Southern accent. The story of Walls' childhood is a heartbreaking and eye opening tale of poverty and neglect. The portrait of her family, mostly her father, is beautifully written. I just wish that her life, and her siblings lives, in New York was more fleshed out. To me, the fish out of water story is much more compelling stuff. I sense that the film version may hone in on this more, and I'm glad I listened to the audiobook first. 

9 comments:

  1. Totally agree with the ridiculous science in All Our Wrong Todays! It kinda lost me towards the end although I loved the book concept overall!

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    1. Yeah, I wonder if I had read this before Dark Matter whether I would have liked it more? I liked the concept, but the execution better in Dark Matter.

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    2. I read All the Wrong Todays before Dark Matter and still thought it was ehhhh...and then I was iffy on reading Dark Matter but still did which was a good decision!

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  2. I'm almost done listening to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo right now. I wouldn't normally think of it as my kind of book, but because of your review and a couple of others I tried it and am thoroughly enjoying it. Thank you!

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    1. Yay! I shall be curious to hear your thoughts on the audiobook.

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  3. I so loved Beartown! And it's definitely not light, but it's a book you can become engrossed in and read quickly, so I did put it on my summer reading list.

    And I'm thinking of trying Seven Husbands as well...even though it's not generally up my alley.

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    1. I was engrossed, for sure! Will be curious to hear your thoughts on Seven Husbands if you've never read her stuff before.

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  4. Thanks for your honest review of Beartown. Knowing me and how not-so-well I do with trigger issues, it might not be the best book for me right now. But I am sure it is a great one! I LOVE Kate DiCamillo's books, so I will have to read Flora & Ulysses!

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  5. I read The Glass Castle quite awhile ago and thought it was well done. I may have to read it again though to remember it before I watch the movie.

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