A few months ago, I introduced the Ember & March bookshelf to you guys and saw an amazing response! Since then, I’ve tried to come up with a system for keeping it updated, getting reviews written and, most importantly, mapping out time to read and discover new books. My goal is to try and share at least two Bookshelf updates each month.
Whatever I’m currently reading will always be listed on the Bookshelf page and on the sidebar, under currently reading. Book reviews will be shared in these updates, and ratings/links to those reviews will continue to be available on The Bookshelf.
Also, in the nature of full disclosure, some links used in this post, on the Bookshelf page and in previous/future reviews do contain affiliate links.
I’ve got two reviews today that I’m so excited to share, because I absolutely loved both reads!
Veronika Decides to Die • Author: Paulo Coelho • Rating: 4/5
I’ve mentioned before that Paulo Coelho is one of my favorite authors. His books are definitely ones that I recommend reading more than once. The first time, for general understanding and entertainment but that second time to truly understand the deeper meanings and truths he portrays through his complex characters and story lines.
What I loved most about this book is that it takes a situation that I cannot directly relate to (the character in the book deems life too ordinary and attempts suicide) and places in in such a universal storyscape that I instantly found the relation to my life. The book really questions us to think about the meanings of normality and madness, success and failure. If you’re at a transitional point in your life, I highly recommend this read, it will help you get out of your head a bit.
****
Baby Proof • Author: Emily Giffin • Rating 4/5
I did not expect to like this book nearly as much as I did. I picked it up at Barnes and Noble on a whim, and I’m so glad that I did. I’ve never read anything by Emily Giffin previously, but after reading Baby Proof I definitely plan to check out some of her other titles.
My favorite part about this book was the characters. Each of them brought something interesting to the story line and it was easy for me to picture them in my head, which definitely helps when I’m reading. I found myself feeling almost connected to the main character, Claudia. If she were a real person, I’d definitely follow her on Twitter and read her blog. If you enjoy reading about the complexities families and married couples face from a different perspective, I’d recommend this read.
Currently, I’m reading The Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan. Amy Tan is one of my favorite writers so I definitely hope to add more of her titles to my read list. What books are currently in your reading pile?
What did you think of Americanah? I recently finished and was captivated by it (and saved me from too much screen time) Thanks for sharing your reads!
Hi Taylor! I haven’t started Americanah yet, but it’s next up on my list! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it! What’s up next on your reading list?
These look great, thanks for the reviews! I’m currently reading The Paris Dream and also rereading The Beautiful and The Damned..I often find myself reading two books at once!
I wish I could balance two books at once! I’ve seen a few people adding The Paris Dream to their lists, I may look in to it!
I read Baby Proof a few years ago and while I loved the book, it definitely scared me. I know that I don’t want children but my partner does. We always just assume one of us will change our minds but who knows. Isn’t it weird how fictional books can hit so closely to home sometimes?
But her other books are great too. And if you like her, you’d probably like Liane Moriarty’s books too. 🙂
Thanks for the author rec, I’ll check her out! At least at the end of the book, the couple did end up finding their way through the issue, so I hope it works out just as well for you and your partner!
Ever since summer break started, I’ve gotten back into the habit of independent reading. School starts again in a few weeks and I really hope that this habit will stick with me! Right now I’m reading Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay. I’ve just added Veronika Decides to Die to my TBR! The plot reminds me of It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini, which I enjoyed. Do you use GoodReads? It’s such a great way to keep track of all your books, currently reading, read, and to be read 😀
I’ve tried Good Reads but I’ve never really been able to stick with it. Let me know what you think of Bad Feminist!
It was such a great read! I love what she has to say about essential feminism 🙂
I LOVE Paulo Coelho. Right now, I’m currently reading the Zahir and I’m trying to find the time to get back to it and read it. This is my second book that I’ve read by him — the first was The Alchemist. My plan is to own and read every last book that he has ever written.
The other books seem quite interesting as well. I may have to check them out.
He is such an incredible author!! Yes I have to read and own every title. I think the Zahir will be next for me!!