Current Reads

It has been a long while since I’ve written a post about my current reads, but since (1) I am reading two books at time – which I never do – and (2) I’ve started an audio book that is 20 disks long, I thought this was a good time for such a post.

First, my audio book. In my quest to read prize-winning authors that I’ve never read before, Wally Lamb is on my list for this year. I now own She’s Come Undone, but I recently picked up The Hour I First Believed from my library at work. Because it is so long, it will be a while before you’re reading the full review, but so far I love it!

The story centers around Caelum Quirk and his wife, Maureen. They both work at Columbine High School when the 1999 shooting occurs. Caelum actually is not there, but has returned to his home in Connecticut to care for his aunt who has had a stroke.

The voice that Lamb develops is reminiscent of John Irving, particularly for me that of Garp. I now look forward to my daily drives because I know this is in my CD player. Really, really good.

Another book I’m very excited about is Thirty Umriger’s The Weight of Heaven. The paperback version just came out this month, and I feel so lucky to have a copy on its way to me right now! However, I couldn’t wait to get it, so I went here and started reading it online. It is about a young couple who lose their only son to a freak illness and then move to India to try to escape the sadness. Her writing is simply amazing. Love it.

In addition, I’m looking forward to February 23 when Book Club Girl is hosting a live chat with Umriger about The Weight of Heaven. Please join in if you can!

Finally, I just started The Outcast by Sadie Jones. This is one of the many borrowed books that I need to read & return. I’m only 35 orso pages in, but already I’m digging the characters.

However, I may have to put this aside for just another week or two because my book club just moved its February meeting up a week, and I need to read that selection (which I am also excited about because those who have started it are saying good things…) Saving Ceecee Honeycutt. Beth Hoffman was in town recently for a reading promoting this book, and I’m sorry that I missed it, but oh well. I can’t do everything.

Speaking of readings, I have two on my calender to attend within the next couple of weeks. On February 11, Jeffrey Stepakoff will be at the Train Depot in Toccoa reading from Fireworks over Toccoa. I haven’t read it yet, but I’ve got to support the home team, so I’ll be there. And, Kathryn Stockett is going to be in Snellville on March 9 promoting The Help (as if THAT book needs help with promotions!) so I’m planning on going to that, too.

Good stuff – all of them – and it is about time. Can’t wait to be able to tell you more!