Books Part One

Over the weekend, I have had family on both sides coming up to visit us, and I think most of our conversations were discussing books we have or have not read. I come from a big family of readers. I must also admit that the older I get the more I swallow any British classic I can get my hands on. So I thought I would share a list of novels I have read, and ones I'm looking into. This post is dedicated to books I have read. Disclaimer: I am not, by any means, a down hard book critic. I only write about books I would read again and again. Enjoy!

Books I've Read:

'The Dovekeepers' by Alice Hoffman

This novel is one that I could not put down. I packed it along everywhere, and I really took my time reading into her words. Her female characters are strong and capable of taking care of themselves, something I am a big believer in. The novel itself is beautifully written! After I lend it to my Mama and my other 'Mama', I am going to read it again! 

'To Kill A Mockingbird' by Harper Lee

The first time I read this book, I was sitting on my Aunt and Uncle's couch in Oregon, devouring every page. Through my high school years, this was, without a doubt, my favorite novel. My copy is weathered and very loved. I believe Harper Lee picked a piece of history and built a world that was believable and captivating. 

'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte'

Jane Eyre. What is there not to say about this amazing work? Charlotte Bronte, is by far my favorite author solely for this novel alone. Does it count that it is a favorite of a good handful of women in my family? I didn't thinks so either. If you have not read this novel, I suggest you pick it up. If you have a hard time understanding some of the 'big words' and I don't mean that rudely, I promise, then get on Netflix and watch one of the versions of Jane Eyre. I haven't watched one I didn't like. Perhaps you'll see the story a little bit better. 

'The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte' by Syrie James

I read 'The Secret Diaries of Charlotte Bronte' when my Aunt bought me a copy for my birthday. I read this before I ever read Jane Eyre, and so on some points I was a little confused. However, Syrie James manages to draw you back to a marvelous time with elegance. I felt this work she composed would make Ms. Bronte very pleased. (Her other novel 'The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen' is equally a masterpiece. Read them both! 

'The Blue Castle' by L.M. Montgomery

My aunt Monica is almost as much of a book lover as I am. Maybe more. She also bought me this book for my birthday some years ago. I think I took such a liking to it because the author and I share the same birthday, and back then that was what I based my liking for everything off of. I've read it now that I am older and I can appreciate the story more, and I find that it is another story of a woman who is not content doing what other people believe she should. When she finds out a life-altering bit of news, she breaks out of her shell and turns into her own independent woman. It's perfect for a middle school or high school daughter to read!

'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley

When I was a senior, we read this novel in my English class, and I fell in love with the whole story. Perhaps it is because I have a huge heart for anyone in an 'outcast' or 'monster' situation. I fall in love with those characters, mostly because I believe everyone needs a little love, and that is all this poor creature wanted. This book is a classic for many reasons, and I think you should read it if you haven't already. 

That is the end of Part One. These are only a fraction of the novels I have read and enjoyed since I learned to read. I am trying to expand my horizons when it comes to novels, so I am always looking for new books to read. New stories to dive into make the harsh world go by a little easier. Look for Part Two next week!