March was a busy month, which was nice after a long winter. I volunteered with my library’s used book sale, went to the home opener of our NWSL soccer team, went to two teacher job fairs, and celebrated Mr. CG’s birthday with friends. Spring is in full bloom, and I couldn’t be happier about the warm weather and all the blossoms.
On a sadder note, I attended a memorial service for my friend’s husband. He died much too young and he and my friend were so happy together, which was devastating. I’m glad, at least, they had many years together. It really made me value the time I have with the people I love. I try never to take that for granted.
This month I read three memoirs/biographies, two books about women in ancient civilizations, two mystery-thrillers and one book about the history of Hawai’i. Right now I’m reading Project Hail Mary, and I did something I usually don’t do — I read about a third of the book, then saw the movie, and now I’m finishing the book. Mr. CG really wanted to see the movie, and it was great.
Here’s what I read in March:
- Heart of a Stranger by Angela Buchdahl
- Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict
- The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
- The Lost Daughter of Sparta by Felicia Day
- The Good Liar by Denise Mina
- I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
- Judy Blume: A Life by Mark Oppenheimer
- Hula by Jasmin ‘Iolani Hakes
My favorite reads:
I’m reviewing Heart of a Stranger shortly, so I’ll just say it was a fantastic book – not only an inspiring story but I learned so much about Judaism, and I’m happy to know more about this amazing person.
In response to a friend’s question, I started looking for books about Hawaii, written by Native Hawaiians. I found Hula, and I’m so happy I did. This is a book about a biracial girl growing up in Hawaii. Her mother and grandmother are native Hawaiians and are they are passionate about native rights to land, and the expression of their history through hula. This was a sad book in a lot of ways, as all three generations have a troubled relationship. But it was also a fascinating one.
Disappointing reads:
The Good Liar was not as compelling as some of Mina’s other books — she’s fantastic.
On the blog:
I reviewed Hula, Judy Blume, The Lost Daughter of Sparta, and Daughter of Egypt.
Books for challenges:
- Reading Jewishly: Judy Blume: A Life; Heart of a Stranger
- Nonfiction: Judy Blume: A Life; I’m Glad My Mom Died; Heart of a Stranger
- Speccy Fiction: The Lost Daughter of Sparta
- Backlist: The God of the Woods, I’m Glad My Mom Died
What I’m reading in April:
I’m currently reading The Wanderers, and then I have three more ARCs to read in April.
That’s my March wrap-up. Happy Passover and Easter to those who celebrate. I hope you’re enjoying the spring weather and reading something good!
