Wednesday, May 02, 2012

Thank you all for the supportive and heartfelt comments and e-mails regarding the last post. Your kindness means a lot to me. I am glad to have gotten those thoughts out there, but also glad to be thinking of other things this week and to be releasing some of that pressure that was building- for the time being anyway. So now it is about knitting and good books and gardens and such-for balance and sustainability.


I am joining Ginny and the gang for the knit along this week- I am having so much fun knitting with this lovely green yarn, though it is a gift, so I wont go into details, but oh, it is so pretty and soft and such a great pattern. I'll share all once it has been gifted.


I also loved that list of books you all suggested when I asked for book recommendations and I ordered a couple second hand books just for me. I just started this one: "The School of Essential Ingredients" and am enjoying it so far. I love reading so very much, but I have been so reluctant to get involved with a book if it might turn around and wrench my guts out with some violence or horror of some sort- I just can't take anything heavy these days - I've always been a wimp when it comes to books and movies, but even more so since becoming a parent. I carry all those fictional stories with me, and if I am only willing to invite them along with me if they bring something enriching or inspiring with them these days. 


But now, with this great list you've gave me, I can have my cake and eat it too- your list of books with depth that are not dark or disturbing. I thought I'd compile your suggestions in case anyone else is looking for a good read that without depressing side effects:


The School of Essential Ingredients: Erica Bauermeister
See You in a Hundred Years: Logan Ward
Bride of New France by Suzanne Desrochers
All That Matters: by Wayson Choi
Water for Elephants: Sarah Gruen
Sisters in the Wilderness: Charlotte Gray
Trauma Farm: by Brian Brett
The Dirty Life: Kristan Kimball
The Adventures of a Woman Homesteader: Susanne E George
The Forest Lover: Susan Vreeland
Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie: Alan Bradley
The Time Traveler Wife: by Audry Niffenegger
The Girls:  by Lori Lansen
The People of the Book: by Geraldine Brooks
We Took to the Woods: Louise Dickinson Rich


happy reading friends!



13 comments:

  1. So many wonderful titles! I am writing this list down and will be reading some of those books :)
    And so sad to read your previous post! I really really hope that things work out and people start understanding the importance of keeping nature intact.

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  2. Dear Taisa, you're not a wimp at all- I am the same way. I have never liked movies or books which leave me feeling down in any way. I am a pretty sensitive person and just have a harder time with that sort of thing. Thank you for posting this list- I have so many to check out now!!
    That yarn is so gorgeous- I would love to know just what it is. It would look so good on my Cedar boy.
    Love and hugs, Mel

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    1. Yes, I have always been sensitive in that way, but now I am just accepting it and finding things that work for me- I hope you find a book you like there- I can't wait to make it through that list! And the yarn is Knit Picks Swish in canopy. It would suit Cedar for sure!

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  3. I saw Sisters in the Wilderness on your list. I am currently reading "The Backwoods of Canada" written in the 1830s by Catharine Parr Traill (for the third time). You should check that one out if you have a chance (your library might have it). It's interesting to say the least...especially if you read her sister's book as well.
    I have added several of yours to my list. Thanks for sharing your suggestions.

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    1. Thanks for that suggestion Natalie- I am adding it to my list!

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  4. I love your list! It's so great to have some reading suggestions from people who share some of the same tastes and interests. Some of the books I have already read and loved (The Dirty Life is my favourite!) and the others look very interesting. Looking forward to trying some of them... I am also thinking of reading "The Backwoods of Canada" or "Roughing it in the Bush" (her sister's book) next. Thank you for sharing and happy reading!

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    1. Thanks Sarah- I have had "Roughing it in the Bush" on my shelf for awhile- need to actually give it a read!

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  5. a great list, thanks for posting it ... Brian Brett just received the BC Lieutenant Governor's Award for literary excellence ...http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/04/25/bc-brian-brett-lit-award.html


    we have just finished 'trauma farm' a second time as our bedtime read aloud. my boys don't like the typical children's fare, lol. it is such a great read, by such a thoughtful, self-connected, caring person. he isn't out to impress anyone with his lifestyle which is the greatest example.

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    1. I love that you are reading Trauma Farm as bedtime reading with your boys!
      xoxo

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  6. Awesome, thanks for the list. I am exactly like you: nothing depressing or violent, just fun, light, inspiring and captivating too!

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    1. It seems I am not the only one with these requirements!
      xoxo

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