I’m trying to read more books that I choose for my own reading enjoyment. Not for review, but because I’ve been wanting to read them or they caught my attention. Most of them have been talked about ad nauseam or have been on my to-read list for a long time so they don’t really need a full review. But, I’d still like to give them some space here on the blog, so instead, I’m offering mini-reviews of the books that won’t get full-page space here.
I’ll be linking up with Modern Mrs. Darcy and her monthly Quick Lit link-up. Be sure to head over to see others link up their Quick Lit posts.
Between subbing full-time, watching the dance team perform, all the holiday concerts at high school and college, and of course, shopping and preparing for Christmas, I just haven’t been able to devote much time to the blog or to reading. Something has to go. But, I did read a couple of books thanks to listening to them on audio. I’m still listening to BRAIN ON FIRE and reading THE PEARL THAT BROKE ITS SHELL. I can’t wait to get back to reading on a regular basis.
I MISS YOU WHEN I BLINK
Essays
By: Mary Laura Philpott
Published: April 2, 2019
Publisher: Atria Books
Non-Fiction/Memoir/Essays
Format: Audiobook
I related to many of the essays in this collection. I appreciated Philpott’s sense of humor and witty take on life, dating, marriage, parenting, and careers. I listened on audio which was read by the author herself. It is a book that I’d like to have a physical copy to read again.
THE SWEETNESS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PIE
A Flavia de Luce Mystery
By: Alan Bradley
Published: April 28, 2009
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Fiction/Mystery
Format: Audiobook
This book has been on my TBR for quite a while. It rose to the top when the audio version was recommended and my library overdrive system had it available. However, I didn’t finish it in the 14-day window and had to go back on the waitlist. Then I found out I could get the ebook, so I checked that out and then a couple of days later I found the physical book on the shelf in the classroom I am teaching in. Then the audiobook became available again. So, I had three ways to read and finish it. The audio version was delightful and I’m so glad I started listening to it first over reading it. The narrator’s accent and way of telling the story really put me in the time and place and I felt like I knew Flavia so much better.
I think this is one of those books that parents and kids would enjoy. The murder isn’t too graphic in detail and Flavia, the main character, is only eleven-years-old. Flavia is such a spunky character with her very own chemistry lab and two annoying sisters that she doesn’t quibble about playing some of her best potion tricks on them. She is smart and loyal and determined to free her father from being charged with murder. But, she does get herself in a couple of pickles while doing so.
I really enjoyed this first book in the series and I think I will try to read more in the series. They would make for a great palate cleanser when you need a fun read….even if there is a murder involved.
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Posted Under Alan Bradley, audiobook, Book Review, fiction, Flavia de Luce series, Mary Laura Philpott, memoir, mystery, non-fiction, Quick Lit, series
I should try to do more of these quick reviews just t get through the backlog from everything I’ve read. Trouble is my short reviews end up getting longer and longer.
I really enjoyed The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, too, but have never felt drawn to continue with the series for some reason. Happy New Year to you and your family!