Monday, September 12, 2011

What I've Read this Summer: Pt. 2


American Wife: 
My friend Kendra read this and suggested it on her blog quite some time ago. Then I saw it probably over a year later at a used book store in Australia for $4.. I HAD to get it. I really enjoyed this book. It's a novel based loosely on the life of Laura Bush and really makes you wanna just be a fly on the wall for pretty much this woman's entire life. We follow the narrator Alice along her life of controversy and her role in the political dynasty in a book that's so thoughtful yet, powerful. I don't want to say too much to give away anything or spoil some of the "OMGosh!" moments. Just rest assured when I say that this book will have you absorbed in it's words and embraced in it's humility, I'm preachin' the truth. A must read for sure. Plus, Curtis Sittenfeld is just awesome!


Pretty Little Liars: 
Do I really need to review this one? Ha, between the TV series and many other reviews, it's probably a little redundant. However, for the sake of the post, this series is actually quite intriguing and will compel you to keep reading (although I haven't read the whole series yet!). If you like a little suspense, a little love, a little reality, some non-reality, and a whole lot of drama... You will love this book!
Find better reviews here and here. 

One Day: 
This book first caught my eye when my dear friend, Valerie did a review on it earlier this summer (I'd advise you to read hers, for it will be much better than mine!). When I told Val that I was going to read it she forewarned me... "IT'S NOT THE ENDING YOU ARE EXPECTING". I took her serious of course.. But man.. I underestimated just how "spot on" she was. The ending had me in all sorts of hysterics but guys seriously, probably one of my favorite books this year, so far anyway. It's the story of two best friends, Emma and Dexter, and their struggles in life, love, and happiness. The book had me crying, laughing, frustrated, happy, and all around pleased. I loved this book and am so thankful I had the chance to read and also had someone to share the experience with (aka Val). 
Also, if you don't know already this has been made into a movie (really, watch this trailer, it's a good one!) which is pretty great as well. Not quite as in depth as the book, but still a good one to see! Whether you choose the movie or the book or both, I hope you invest a little time into One Day.


Heaven is for Real: 
This book pretty much blew my socks off. I had seen it a few times as I passed by book sections and such, but never thought to pick it up. Then my stepmother lent it to me and just flat out told me, "here, you will finish it in a day. It's that good." Well, she was right! It's about 150 pages, for sure a quick and easy read; but that's not why you will fly through it. You won't want to put this book down because for the entire time you will feel like you're getting a little glimpse into what heaven is going to look/be like while all the while being truly humbled by this little boy and his pure heart. The book describes a father's story about how his son had a near death experience and went to heaven for a short time while he was in emergency surgery. Sure, OK I was a little skeptical too. Not of heaven, but the whole, "is this Dad just trying to make money of his adorable little son?" 
However, after just a few pages in I was believing what I was reading. It had me in tears, in excitement, in fear, intrigued, and the list goes on. Regardless of your beliefs on Christ, heaven, and all things supernatural... I think anyone could find joy in this book. You will be filled with hope, joy, and an all around sense of love as we see into the heart of a young boy and his experience with the Man upstairs.

A little preview of books to come for fall:
Prep
Sloppy Firsts (again, I'm a follower of my friends)
Welcome to Temptation
Something Borrowed
The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe
Destined

For some really great reviews on books check out these people: 

I'm open for any/all book suggestions as well!

5 comments:

Kendra said...

so many books, so little time!

another list addition: L.A. Candy (just mailed it to Val this morning, so it will be on its way to you next!)

-Mallori said...

AWW SHUCKS SAM! You mentioned me for a "great reviews!" And as a "better review" person. My book reviews were in fact inspired by your friends Kendra and Valerie, so the fact that you think mine are just as good makes me feel all warm and gooey :)

I've picked up a copy of One Day after Val's review as well, and I LOVE Jim Sturgess to the Moon and back. Now I'm scared to read it but you bet your sexy booty I'm gonna do it!

I'm glad you decided to start doing book reviews too! Love you!

Unknown said...

oh i just love curtis sittenfeld and the way she writes! i also read american wife on my mother's recommendation and i loved it. but my absolute favourite is 'prep' - if you haven't read it you definitely should.

i'm gonna go chekc out pretty little liars now!

Rachel said...

Great post, i always love seeing what people are reading! I'm desperate to read One Day! I need more time to read all these books! xo

http://rachh90210.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

These books are on my "to read" list now! I just finished the best book. Its called "Matched" by Allie Condie. SOOOOO good. It reminds me of the Hunger Games. You should check it out! The sequel to it comes out it November and I can't wait!!