What I’m reading and what I recommend to you!
“When I Married My Mother”
Clever title that makes you want to take a look, for sure.
Slight disclaimer here: the author, Jo Maeder, is a friend of mine….
But nevertheless, this is one fascinating book and should definitely be on your list!
“An irreverent New York City DJ braces for disaster when she moves to the Bible Belt to care for her estranged mother. What unfolds in this best-selling memoir is a hilarious, heartbreaking love story that sees eldercare and making peace with the past in a whole new way. “
All the above and SO much more. Jo’s Mother was a hoarder. She was alone. She had the beginnings of dementia. She was stubborn. For all of you out there who have cared for a parent or older person, or for those of you who may be seeing that in your future, this is the book for you. And, it’s funny, it’s poignant and because Jo and I had been friends for a year or two before I ever read this, I now see my friend in a new light.
“Dear Carolina”
by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Kristy, with her Mother, writes the very popular interior design blog,
“My Design Chic”.
This is Kristy’s first novel and already her second one,
“Lies and Other Acts of Love,” is set to release on April 5, 2016. You can pre-order from the link.
“Dear Carolina” is about two women linked through motherhood, proximity, and circumstances. It is definitely a “Southern” kind of story…from the language and accents to the cultural heritage inherent in these characters. It’s love story, of sorts, and one that made me want to finish the book without a break. I look forward to the new book, Kristy!
“The Big Magic”
by Elizabeth Gilbert
Well, of course, this is one of THE hot books of the season. I’ll bet almost every women’s book group is reading it. Everyone is talking about it. Hmmm. I’ve only read about 30% now, but I have to say, I am not taken with it. Tell me: is it just that I haven’t gone far enough into it? Do you all like it? I am a fan of “Eat, Pray, Love” but somehow this one just isn’t grabbing me. Seems like a lot of words and hype. Ok, ok…I will certainly finish it and let you know my final opinion. What are your comments about it?
Thanks for introducing me to these books. But I’ll pass on Big Magic – barely made it through Eat, Pray, Love as I thought it was pretty “formula” writing. And couldn’t make it through the first couple chapters of her second book. I’ll keep my eye out for the other two though.
Heather @ New House New Home recently posted…Table It Link Party – February 7th
Oh, Libby. Thank you so much for your kinds words! What an experience it was. That the book that came out of it helps others in similar situations is icing on the cake. I miss her so much. Audiobook coming soon!
Thanks for the book ideas, Libby. I was not a fan of Eat, Pray Love, felt it was too self centered and whiny, so I will pass on that but the other two sound perfect for me.
yay! Thank you so, so much, Libby, for sharing Dear Carolina. Hearing that you enjoyed it made my day! xo Kristy
Kristy Woodson Harvey recently posted…Southern Charm!
Kristy: My pleasure! Am looking forward to “Lies and Other Acts of Love”; any chance you will be doing a signing at McIntyre’s? Let me know if you will be here in the area.
Hi Libby! Yes, I am! I will be there on Saturday, April 16. I believe it’s at 11. I would LOVE to see you! That would be so much fun!!! Thank you again.
So nice to see someone reading thoughtfully and sharing a good experience with a friend’s book. Lovely post Libby. — Jane
Thanks, Jane. I’m reading some wonderful gardening books right now and will pass those on in the near future!