As a writer and a dreamer, books are always on my mind. Yes, I read books…and magazines and newspapers; but if there is a book review in those publications, I’m there. And with December being the month of Christmas and other holiday and religious celebrations, the gift of a book is always a good idea.
In my family of siblings, nephews, nieces and cousins we came up with the wonderful idea to celebrate the season, send love and keep in touch. It’s the Christmas Book Grab-bag. My daughter puts all the names in a hat and my grandson pulls them out…matching the name pulled with the first name on the list, then the second etc. The list is then emailed to all, our way to celebrate the season, though was are miles apart from each other. I have received my gift from my brother John who lives in Washington D.C and I have sent my nephew in Buffalo his gift. And so it goes until Christmas Day, each of us giving and receiving the gift of a book.
But however you gift members of your family, a BOOK IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA!
READ YOUR WAY THROUGH MAINE
The New York Times recently started an interesting series. They ask an author to highlight her state, and to list books to read, especially if you are planning to visit that state. At the end of the piece, the same author lists some of her favorite books. Author Lily King who lives in Maine was featured in August. She listed the books she loves, books that you might consider reading before visiting Maine, or purchasing for holiday gifts.
Lily King suggests: Night of the Living Rez by Morgan Talty, of the Penobscot Indian Nation.
When We Were The Kennedys by Monica Wood, a memoir of growing up in the mill town of Mexico, Maine, her hometown, the book full of love and humor and beloved characters.
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout, a Pulitzer winner, and one of my very favorites.
E.B. White: One Man’s Meat I have not read this book, but it recalls the adventure of leaving New York city to move and find a good life in Maine.
Susan Conley: Landslide, a deeply moving family story.
Richard Russo: Empire Falls How will the people survive when the shirt factory is no longer providing jobs.
Beth Gutcheon, More Than You Know; Salem’s Lot; Bag of Bones.
Carolyn Chute, The Beans of Egypt, Maine
Henry David Thoreau, The Maine Woods
Rachel Caron, The Sea Trilogy
Children’s Books: Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
One Morning In Maine and Blueberries for Sal: Robert Mc Closkey
And finally, Lily King’s wonderful novels:
Writers and Lovers, Five Tuesdays in Winter, Euphoria,The Pleasing Hour, and Father of the Rain
I’m looking forward to more suggestions like these…HAPPY READING, Beth
7 Responses
Love this list! I grew up in Waterville, Maine (aka Empire Falls) so I know most of these, but not all. Thanks!
So cool Anne. I love when the NYT dies this. Have a wonderful holiday season.
THANKS SO MUCH, ANNE!!
What a fantastic list. I’m the same way about books. My Kindle currently has over 500 titles and counting. At least they’re not actual books. I’d need to build another room!
Wow Laurie, you are a fantastic reader. It is so wonderful to have the time to read those books we had to set aside when raising a family or working. Bravo! And blessings to you and your during the wonderful season, Beth
My son once told me I had a better selection of books in my house than the local bookstore did- I raised him right!
I love that Alana, thanks for reading and commenting, Beth