Eighteen or so books graduated from my book pile in 2012. Some were all for my very own pleasure, others were to get a taste of historical periods my children were studying. Although I envy moms who breeze through one book a week (52 books in 52 weeks), this pace is just not for me, even employing the help of audio books. I am trying an audio version of Great Expectations and at the rate I am going I will finish in 2020.
So, what's in my reading pile this year?
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott - to glean some mothering tips from Marmee.
Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran - to help me understand ancient Roman times. My 7th grader is almost there in history, right after she finishes Warrior Scarlet.
Black Heels to Tractor Wheels by Ree Drummond - because I need a good laugh and she makes me homesick for Oklahoma.
Desperate by Sarah Mae and Sally Clarkson - for those who procrastinate getting out of bed for fear of ruining their children (me). That and the fact that it's one of the only times in the day I can actually concentrate on reading.
The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease - the first half explains all the reasons why you should still read aloud to your kids (even if they can read on their own) and the second half includes an annotated book list. I will be consulting this resource when it comes time to refresh the reading shelves next fall.
You Can Understand the Bible by Peter Kreeft - I am supposed to be reading along for CWH. Need to catch up.
For Altar and Throne by Michael Davies - to better understand the role of the Vendee in the French Revolution. I suppose this is the book upon which the movie was based?
Black Robe and Tomahawk: The Life and Travels of Fr. Pierre-Jean De Smet by George Bishop - because Fr. De Smet rocks.
Freckles by Gene Stratton-Porter - loved Girl of the Limberlost, liked Keeper of the Bees. I started Freckles a long time ago and would like to get through the rest. Maybe in the summertime?
The School of the Family by Chantal R. Howard - penned by a home-school grad.
Characters of the Reformation by Hillaire Belloc - looks interesting.
Collected Works: Volume IV of G. K. Chesterton - because I'd like to say I've actually read Chesterton instead of just enjoying quotes attributed to him. I have no idea where to start, so What's Wrong with the World seems like a good place.
The Lady and the Unicorn by Tracy Chevalier - I enjoyed her other works, but may toss this one after reading the one and two star reviews. Love those one and two star reviews, don't you? So enlightening.
How to Read a Book by Mortimer Adler - because who wouldn't love a name like Mortimer? Not only is his life story is so very fascinating, he co-authored this book with THE Charles Van Doren. You know- from the movie Quiz Show? This book has been at the bottom of my pile for five years or so. I hear it's good, but - don't we all just want to read books, instead of reading about how to read a book? Kids don't want to read about how to ride a bike, they just get on and try. {sigh} I resolve to get this read before my eldest begins high school.
Now, The Survey -
I have three questions for you:
1) Where and when do you read?
With adult onset ADD, it seems I can only read in two places: the passenger seat of the van and in my bedroom with the door shut. Mornings are better for me than before bedtime, but then I tend to read to procrastinate getting up and facing the day.
2) What time of day do you shower?
Almost every time I read a "day in the life of a homeschool mom" sort of post, they never mention showering in the morning. Evidently, moms just pop out of bed, dress, and go downstairs to feed the cat, make coffee, and enjoy quiet/prayer time before their children wake. This is definitely not how my day begins. I need that shower to wake up, clear my head, and freshen up.
3) What are your suggestions for my reading pile?
If I keep pace with last year, I will have time for four more books. Can you believe I've never read any adult C.S. Lewis? I am considering The Radetsky March before the Europe tour, and have a few Elizabeth Goudge and Kate Morton titles in my "saved for later" Amazon cart. Early Candlelight by Maud Heart Lovelace (of Betsy-Tacy fame) has also been on my wish list.
Leave a comment with your answer for a chance to win one of the following (gently used) mom books:
Chances of winning are one in ten! For every ten comments I will give away one book. If there's a particular title in which you are interested, please mention that too!
And - thank you a thousand times for placing Amazon orders through one of my links. This time my earnings are going towards a circular polarizing filter for my new camera (and some books). No, I did not know what a polarizing filter was a week ago, but after the first photography class I realized I will need one. I appreciate your feedback and patience as I experiment with the world of photography.
Blessings on your reading adventures in 2013!
