I read these books – and wrote their reviews – back when there was still snow on the ground. Somehow this never got posted. Better late than never, I say!
In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan
I cannot recommend Michael Pollan’s writing–books, newspaper articles, and his website–enough. He’s absolutely brilliant! Pollan’s book The Omnivore’s Dilemma first introduced me to his thought-provoking, yet easy to read, work. Whereas The Omnivore’s Dilemma took us on a journey through various types of food industry, In Defense of Food is more of an eater’s guide.
Pollan begins with a simple mantra:
Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.”
From this simple yet profound statement Pollan expands his philosophy into an entire book full of revolutionary food thought. I normally find non-fiction works difficult to read, but Pollan’s fresh, absorbing writing keeps you glued to his books all the way to the end.
A Three Dog Life: A Memoir by Abigail Thomas
If you thought the timeless marital love depicted in “The Notebook” was the ultimate tear-jerker, then you haven’t read this book. It’s proof positive that love can conquer ALL and still leave room for happiness to find a way in.
In her book, Abigail shows us that, while it may be impossible to find meaning in a life-changing disaster, it’s possible to build a new, happy life filled with love and companionship. At 182 pages, this book is a short, yet deep read. I highly recommend it!
TThe Lost Symbol: A Novel by Dan Brown
Typical Dan Brown style, The Lost Symbol will not disappoint if you liked Angels & Demons or The Da Vinci Code. Brown is obviously a master at creating fast paced thrillers, including plenty of plot twists, that require him to do a massive amount of research. That said, this wasn’t my favorite Dan Brown book–Deception Point still holds that honor–probably because science will capture my fancy faster than religion any day. While his other works have represented Christianity and the Catholic Church as institutions highly susceptible to corruption, The Lost Symbol casts religion in a slightly more redemptive light.
The Return & Nightfall by L.J. Smith
No offense to L.J. Smith, but I’m not even sure why I keep reading The Vampire Diaries books. They’re just not worth it, in my opinion. That said, if you enjoyed the first books, there is a major plot twist in these that you won’t want to miss.
Aspiring Alverna 