A few months ago, in honor of my 31st birthday, I wrote thirty-one short and sweet book reviews. It was so much fun to gather up the titles and authors and to think back about how I felt after reading each one. I also realized how much I enjoy writing – and reading – short reviews.
Who needs multiple paragraphs when a sentence or two will do. Right? Right.
Even with the addition of Mommy to my list of roles in my life, I have somehow still been able to squeeze in a bit of reading here and there. Here is everything I read this summer (June, July, and August) and my quick thoughts on each. Hope you find a tidbit or two to take with you the next time you dive into your nearest bookstore. Enjoy!
Trump: How to Get Rich, by Donald J Trump
Jumps around from topic to topic, but such a classic. Solid advice. The day-in-the-life section is worth the price (money and time) of the book alone.
Rich Like Them: My Door-to-Door Search for the Secrets of Wealth in America’s Richest Neighborhoods, by Ryan D’Agostino
I expected a fluffy account of the author’s travels. Wasn’t what I expected, but in a good way. D’Agostino did a great job of weaving a narrative with strong advice on life and business and success amongst the story of his travels.
The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future, by Chris Guillebeau
Clear. Concise. Motivating. Reassuring. Energizing. Fascinating. Simplifying.
Sell Your Crap (ebook), by Adam Baker
Short and easy read. Tons of useful, honest information about a practical approach to minimalism.
House Rules: A Novel, by Jodi Picoult
Wow. This book was enthralling. Easy to read yet powerful. Couldn’t put it down.
The Joy of Less, A Minimalist Living Guide: How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your life, by Francine Jay
Not that I’m some minimalism expert, but this was pretty basic. Good reminders, though. Quick read.
Pinfluence: The Complete Guide to Marketing Your Business with Pinterest, by Beth Hayden
Perfect. A how-to guide for beginners yet with marketing strategies and tips even the pro’s might not have thought of. Nicely done.
I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts On Being a Woman, by Nora Ephron
Hilarious in that endearing “Oh my God that’s totally me!” type of way. Gracious, could that woman write. Inspiring.
I Remember Nothing: And Other Reflections, by Nora Ephron
Not as entertaining as I Feel Bad About My Neck, IMHO, but enjoyable nonetheless. This was her last book, written when she knew her time was limited, and there is a strong reflective vibe to it. Powerful at times. Emotional, too.
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain
Can’t believe I’d never read this classic. So good. Who knew it was such a ridiculously fun story!
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns), by Mindy Kaling
And I officially love Mindy Kaling. The end.
Winning Balance: What I’ve Learned So Far about Love, Faith, and Living Your Dreams, by Shawn Johnson
Writing was ok, but the flow was awful. Bounced around everywhere. However, the inside details about her thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to her gymnastics career were fascinating. Well worth the read. She journals and writes poetry and has a deep faith and close family ties and wins Gold medals? What an impressive gal.
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake, by Anna Quindlen
Perfect read for the sixty year-old parent of (youngish) grown children. I am not one of those. Found it enjoyable anyway. Rocking writing. Wow.
Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness, by Scott Jurek
Interesting. While I’m not much of a runner I, oddly, like reading books from the ultramarathoners. Didn’t like this one as much as those by Dean Karnazes and Christopher McDougall, but with the unique addition of descriptions of and recipes from Jurek’s vegan lifestyle, plus his fascinatingly struggle-filled childhood, it was worth the read.
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That’s it! Fun stuff. Bring on the fall reads.
As a friendly reminder, feel free to follow along with the full list of everything I’ve read this year (and years past).
Whatcha reading?
In book geekery,
AS
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I'm an author, marketer, and mommy who loves to read, write, and drink coffee. My husband and I live in suburban Kansas City with our two little girls. This site chronicles my world. Thanks for stopping by!
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