Good Books

I love a good book. I think there are so many books I want to read, I don't bother with it unless it comes highly recommended. Conformist? Maybe, but no time for books that don't pass the test. I've talked about Goodreads before, but I really enjoy it. I get most of my recommendations from my mom and aunts. So if they don't give it 4 or 5 stars, you probably won't see my reading it. In random order, here are some of my favorites as of late. Also, I get most my books from the library, or I would loan them to you. :)

 

is about a mother who was kidnapped in college and is caged in a tiny room in her captors back yard. She has a son, and it's about how they live without going crazy. The writing style took me a while to get into because it's from the 5 year old boy's perspective, but once I adjusted, it was a really quick and interesting read. The kidnapping is not in the book for those of us who are scardy cats. It's not a scary book.

 

Chris got me this book for Christmas on recommendation from a lady who works at the bookstore. I know it's probably strange, but I like unusually depressing books. I do not like "chick lit" or "beach reads" and this book very much is not. It's about the Holocaust in Poland, so by nature, it's depressing. The book is long but an educational read.

 

is about twin boys born in Ethopia who grow up with doctor parents. I don't want to summarize too much because it will give it away. My mom thinks this might be her favorite book of all time, and she reads A LOT. I read it on her recommendation and was so glad I did.

 

is more a casual read because it's about different countries and their level of happiness and what makes them happy. I have been reading it by country in between books I'm on the waiting list for at the library. I think the entire Eelkema side of the family has been passed this book. Thanks Julie! I think it is your originally.

 

is about a leprosy colony in Hawaii. I read it a couple months ago, it but remains one of my favorites, so I thought I would include it. I didn't know much about leprosy, so I learned a lot. And I love a book that I learn from.

 

is the best book I have read in a long time. Again, it's depressing. The Chapman's lost their daughter in an accident, so it is about their loss and life. I cried for the entire 2 days I read this, but I laughed out loud too. She is just so honest about her feelings and I really respect her for that.  I read several passages to Adam. He can especially relate since he lost his brother. I loved her writing style and transparency.

Ok, there's my list, now I need yours! Like I said, I only read books that are recommended to me, so I need some guidance. Anything I can't miss?