Great Summer Reads
I organized a Book Club with some friends about a year ago. I had watched the movie Book Club 1 and then Book Club 2. I had a good laugh during the opening of the second movie as all the characters struggled with trying to conduct their Book Club meeting over Zoom. I think many of us struggled trying in the same way initially. I know I did! How do I unmute???
I had been in a Book Club years before and while I really enjoyed it, I found it difficult to commit the time driving to houses for our monthly meeting especially after I moved out of the area.
So, my one condition for the current Book Club was that it had to be on Zoom. And so far, it has been great! We all grab a glass of wine and settle in for a good discussion of the book on hand. I am always amazed and surprised how everyone feels about each book.
I thought it would be fun to share some of the books we have read, and to add a few that I want to read this summer.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
I had never really thought about an octopus before but boy, did I love this book! Who knew Octopuses were so smart???
It compelled me to read another book called The Soul of an Octopus-this book was used as information for Remarkably Bright Creatures. The book was an easy read and captured me from the beginning. I plan to go back to the aquarium to check out their resident octopus this summer.
Book: Amazon.ca
Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld
What I loved about the book was the way it was written-email trains, before and after moments of the Pandemic. It was funny, tense and romantic. It basically outlines the week before and leading up to a television show-similar to SNL. The writers, talent all collab, change, edit but then the pandemic hits and the following writing is expressed through e-mails. Time passes and we are back to real life championing the romantic side.
Loved it.
Book: Amazon.ca
The Idea of You by Robinne Lee
I wanted to read this after the movie with Anne Hathaway of the same name. Namely her character meets a much younger musician and has a romantic relationship. May-September romances have always intrigued me and this did not disappoint.
Just a fun read.
Book: Amazon.ca
Memories in Focus by Pinchas Gutter
I heard Pinchas Gutter speak in an interview on CBC radio and immediately bought his book. What a wonderful, compassionate speaker! Mr. Gutter is now a senior still speaking about his experiences in the war camps and his life afterwards. A book that lifts the soul.
Book: Amazon.ca
Heart on My Sleeve by Jeanne Beker
When I heard Jeanne Beker was writing a biography, I had to read it and it did not disappoint. An easy, positive, endearing read from start to finish. For those who remember Fashion Television (I never missed the show!) it was fun to read about some of her experiences with such amazing fashion icons like Karl Lagerfeld. And I am so happy she is enjoying better health these days!
Book: Amazon.ca
Here are some new books I plan to read:
Uptown Girl by A Memoir Christie Brinkley
I always loved her in the Cover Girl Ads as a young teen and thought she was so beautiful! I have always followed her career along with her ups and downs in her personal life. Now that she is in her 70's, I am still amazed at her positivity and light. Her environmental work is also to be admired. And her Bellisimo bubbly is good!
Book: Amazon.ca
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
I am not familiar with Carley Fortune's writing but she was so recommended on CBC Radio that I had to check her out.
Book: Amazon.ca
Favourite Daughter by Morgan Dick
Another recommendation from CBC Radio about two estranged sisters who are thrown together by their father's dying wish. Apparently, this is one under the radar so I was intrigued.
Book: Amazon.ca